We have a crate in the corner, but Bear mostly has access to all but one bedroom now (sleeps in several locations, but rarely in the crate and not for the last month or so. Last week we had guests with kids that were scared of Bear, so we locked him in the crate as they went through to the back of the house, then let him out in that side of the house (I put some treats in to encourage him to go in). The last few days he has tried going in the crate, sniffing for treats, smart right (to remember the possibility of a treat hiding spot)? Well here's we're he has either decided he doesn't want to break any rules or his intelligence fades, with the door fully open, after going in, he will sit looking at me waiting for me to let him out, even with treats and toys offered outside he will eventually give up and lay down or let out a short bark "hey let me out", until I touch the open door, then he jumps out. Love these funny things he does
Ah, you misunderstand. He has ALWAYS known exactly how to open the crate door. He could have got out at any time, and was just demonstrating his perfect manners to you by waiting until you invite him out. Whether door is open or shut.
