She chose the crate

[agilityboxer]

I got over feeling bad.... When the weather was nice for the first time since we were in the house I left the girls out. I moved their beds outside, there is a covered patio and if it is warm enough I turn the ceiling fan on for them. After awhile when DH would go to put them out in the morning as he is the last to leave for work he said he had to drag them out of the crate, literally! At first I did not believe him... Then I attributed it to getting a treat for getting in the crate but not for going outside. So, he started giving them treats to go outside. Still this didn’t help. Now if it is 70-75 f then I will put them out for the day, otherwise they would really prefer to go in the crate. Who'd have thought!

 

[CondoPup]

We keep the crate in the living room by the sliding glass patio door while we are gone and she gets to listen to Sirius radio

be sure you always make it a positive experience--don't use the crate as punishment

I try not to make too huge a fuss when I let Gracie out--I do praise her and give her a pet, but I think that if I make too much fuss, she will start to want out because it means attention--which could mke her resist being crated...

always be sure they have had a chance to "do their business" before crating, and immediately when you let them out!

there will come a time when a crate or cage will be necessary.... its so much easier and less stressful if they are already comfortable with being crated.

This illustrates a really good overall approach to crate training. Jill it sounds like you're doing an excellent job! Great advice.

 

[FinnysMommy]

Finnegan started out having problems with the crate, but recently we put a bed sheet over the top and sides, so he can see out the front. It makes it feel more like a den than a cage. Now he doesnt complain when he's gotta go in there for the night!