7 month old refusing crate & can't be left alone

My puppy was perfectly crate trained & would happily go in for shorter periods in the day & overnight. A few weeks ago she started being reluctant to go in and now refuses completely. I have never trained her to be alone outside the crate, so now I can't leave her even in a different room without her barking and whining.

I'm not sure what has caused the crate issue. She may have outgrown it- her head now touches the top when sitting and she can't lie down with all legs stretched out. Or she may have been spooked by something- she has also started barking at some unknown presence outside around the same time each evening.

My question is should I start crate training again and invest in a bigger crate if necessary, or just train her to be alone instead? She's toilet trained now and has already chewed everything in the flat so there's nothing left to destroy when left alone!

Any advice, tips or pointers to relevant articles appreciated

 

I would start your crate training again. While you may no longer need it, there may be times that she will need to go in a crate (such as an injury) and it is useful for her to be comfortable for such eventualities.

 

Thanks- that makes sense

 

Start feeding her her meals in her cage. And look up sophia yin she was a very good behaviorist. I'm sure she has some great information on this topic.













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I looked up Yin and her approach was mine with my last Lab. He was easier because he liked his bed in there and used to "escape" the noise etc. My pup now goes to check for treats but gets nervous if he's in there, but I'll try the repeat treat idea. I'd really like for him by 3 months to like to at least tap a nap there, door open.

 

I would start the training again. The best piece of advice I’ve ever been told with crates is “the crate is great” if you can look at the crate through your dogs eyes and say that, then you are doing it right.
Crate time rewards with treats, food, toys, play etc will do wonders. Maybe your puppy just needs that reminder that the crate is her room, not a punishment or time out zone. good luck!!!