One thing you did not indicate is where you bought the puppy and what were her living conditions prior to coming to you? It sounds as if she is one really pissed off puppy and I can't say as I blame her. Crates are not meant to be used a dogsitters and constant use of them is bound to produce problems. You say she is only in there for three or four hours at a time. Add that to being in the crate all night and she is spending at least half of her days in the crate. If she came from a breeder that kept her in an exercise pen or crate then I'm sure what you are seeing is frustration and boredom.
If she was at one time loving and friendly then the changes are most likely due to her being confined and alone for too long. Have you considered putting her in doggy daycare for a couple of hours a day so she has a chance to socialize and play? Have you considered that with your working schedules perhaps now is not the opportune time to have a puppy?
Have you enrolled her in puppy classes? Do you take her for a walk every morning and evening? Do you go out and play with her in the yard? |