When we adopted Holly 2 weeks ago she was quite accepting of the crate considering her previous owner did not use one. However she has had problems with the runs and sickness and has had a few accidents in her crate this week. The vet has said it is food related so I am trying to ease her in slowly to a gentler feeding regime. Anyhow I think she is not so happy now with her crate. I am trying to entice her in with a little playtime and a treat but she doesn't seem very happy with it now. I am laying of treats really at the moment as she has a delicate tummy. She never goes in there as a punishment. She did pee in there last night. I have read to leave the crate door open but if I do that she won't stay in there. I know they don't like peeing in there but not sure what to do next really. Whether she sees the crate and a bad place now because of her tummy issues?
Hi HollyLou, I think you are doing all the right things. Dogs are reluctant to sleep in areas that smell of waste. Since their nose is far superior to our limited olfactory ability, the crate may still be problematic to her, even though you think it's okay. Are you able to put in the crate a vinyl crate mattress that can be thoroughly scrubbed? I would ask your vet for a suggestion. If not possible, then just put in the crate a number of beach towels that can be washed. Are you able to put the crate on a tiled surface that can be washed? Perhaps put some towels on the floor so that she has a soft surface to sleep on. Use a baby gate to keep the dog in the area when you are not able to supervise your dog. I would be reluctant to lock her in the crate until she stops having problems. You do not want the crate to be viewed as an aversive. Once she is over her problems then use treats or toys to positively reinforce her entry into the crate.
