My puppy loves to be in a crate ---if the door is open and he can get out whenever he wants to (that's the way it is for wild animals in a den). If he is locked in his crate and can't get out - he cries and doesn't like being there at all.
I personally don't like crate training. I don't like my dog being in a crate that much of the time. I think it is okay when they are very very young and sleep almost all the time. But, when they get older, I just can't keep them there as much as you need to.
If you're having trouble getting your dog to go to the bathroom outdoors - have you tried taking him to the same place every time he's out. Often if they smell where they (or even another dog) has pee'd before, and they'll pee right away.
Is your dog on a leash when you are outside? I have had several friends whose dogs won't go the bathroom when they are on a leash. They know that they usually get in trouble for going to the bathroom and they sure as heck aren't going to do it with you right there! (They haven't figured out yet why sometimes it bad and sometimes it's okay - so they're not taking any chances) And, they hold it until they get back inside and get off the leash. And then usually try and get a little more distance between you and them before they pee.
Potty training - fun fun fun!!!!!! |