Oh my....quite an uproar. I crate trained both of my babies. Chloe is now 11months, Milo is 8months. The way I use the crate is for their comfort. Dogs were originally in the wild. They slept in caves with their pack.
Both of my pups have their own crate, covered with a small blanket to create a dark space. I do not feed them there. I do not keep them in there except for when I leave the house and at bed time. Most stores (except food stores) gladly except my little ones in with me. I bought a stroller because they're getting a little big to be carried around.
When I'm home I keep them within my sight. I have puppy proofed my house and house proofed my puppies. I can cook, clean, do laundry, sew, be on the computer, watch TV, whatever the task may be. My yard is even puppy proofed. We have a pen outside that is covered (I fear hawks taking off with my babies).
It sounds like rather stressing you or the baby, you need to create an environment where he can be roam free and safe, and you don't have to worry.
I found that my puppies are much like little kids. They whine occasionally, bark at everything that moves, and completely would be out of control if I didn't take on a strict mommy (pack leader) role. I have a few online books that I have been willing to share on this forum and I would very much like you to have them. They teach you to be the alpha dog and ways to train that really work! If you're interested please e-mail me at
babsydo30@hotmail.com and I will send you the copies ASAP!
Take a breather and know that all of your problems you are having can be eluviated. It will get better!
*HUGS*
Barb and the crew!
