I had to crate one of my previous Yorkies late in her little life. When she was about 15 it became necessary for potty issues. She did really good for her age, but could not hold it very long. It took a few weeks for her to get used to going in the crate and staying in it. I worked with her slowly and only used it for when I left the house. (She started going pee about 5 minutes after I left the house.) I got her a crate about 3 times larger than I needed - not something you do for potty training. But, because I knew she would go potty in it, I wanted to make sure she had space - the removable floor grid and tray made it super easy to clean. I put a pee pad in one half and her bed on the other. I digress...sorry.
After a short time, she would get excited to go in her crate when I was getting ready to leave because she knew she would get a "cookie". She had regular treats and the special crate treats - funny little dogs! I knew she was safe in her crate when I was gone and did not have to worry about her falling off of the bed or couch. |