We crated Toby from the day we got him when we weren't home. At night, he sleeps with us in our bed. His crate is for extra large dogs and he has his bed, blanket, toy, food, water, and plenty of room to walk around and stretch. We also keep it in a high traffic area of the house where he can see everything. We only had a problem the first day we left him in it. I just think it was because it was something new. He is now a year and a half and has gotten to the point where he can stay out of it when we are gone and he is fine. I swear he just lays in one spot and sleeps the whole time he's alone. The trick we found that helped to get him in it was to give him a treat once he went in. It worked so well that even now when he doesn't have to go in, as soon as he knows we're leaving and sees the treat he'll go in. They are smart little buggers! Hope this helps!
__________________ ~ Kelly & Toby  |