Is it too late for a crate?

[bigpud74]

Hi having read many threads on crates I was just wondering if Chewie is too old to be crate trained as he is almost 17 weeks old.When I got him I asked the breeder about crates and she told me she didn't use them as they are cruel!!!!end of conversation    He at present has the run of the entire kitchen which he is munching to bits. I was also wondering whether it would make him feel a little happier knowing he has his own space/den to retreat into away from the kids and for Chewie time.

[Cazzie]

No its never too late to get them used to any bed (thats the word my dogs know for their crates). 

[JasperPop]

I dont think it is ever too late if it is introduced gently and used properly.  It is basically a safe haven and a bed to all intents and purposes.  I would definately go down this route.  It is not cruel and he will be safe and happy in there.  

Just remember to give it time for him to get used to it as it will be new, and you might find he takes longer to get used to it.

Good luck, I think you will find life a little less stessful with one!!

[bigpud74]

Thanks for your advice guys will be getting a crate tommorow  What size should I get ?

[JasperPop]

Mine dont have one as I have a gated area which is kinda like a crate.  However my Boxer had one (which she still loves) and I would say go for the one which is the size ABOVE the one recommended for the breed.  That is unless space is a real issue.  You dont want it too big really, but they need to be able to stand up comfortably and turn around in it easily. 

I have read other people saying that you should go for the largest you can afford tho.....

Good luck with it, it really is just a safe haven you are doing the right thing...he will be safe in there

[cazza]

I have a 30" and that is reccommended for a cocker

But both mine also have a 36" crate each with a single duvet in (spoilt cockers  )

i also cover half off it over with a blanket to make it more den like and they both love their crates 

I would say chewie is fine to introduce the crate too, just make sure you follow the simple steps and do it over time

Feed them in crate with door open to start with - a good book on how to introduce the crate is Pamela Dennison's An idiots guide to positive dog training (well worth the money @ £15 as has loads of stuff in there  )

[bigpud74]

Well we've had the 36" crate/bed for a week and Chewie has really taken to it. He has his bed inside and some of his toys and a huge blanket I got from a charity shop. Chewie is now 18 weeks old he can go through the night from 10.30pm til 6am and thanks to his new crate and him feeling more settled we have only had a few accidents.

Thanks for all your helpful advice, the crate is great!!!

Cazza I'm also half way through the book you advised me to get  am finding it really interesting. Also caught OH reading it during the week!!!!

[Tasha]

I trained a golden oldie who was 15 to use a crate so they are definitely never too old and the bonus of a crate is that if you have to travel at any point (like on the ferries to holland where they insist you use a crate and not just leave in the car) they are already prepared for them. 

[cazza]

Cazza I'm also half way through the book you advised me to get  am finding it really interesting. Also caught OH reading it during the week!!!!

I found it a good all rounder and if you want more info on any particular part you can just purchase a more in depth book on that subject   

Glad chewie has taken well to the crate too 

[Cazzie]

Cazza I'm also half way through the book you advised me to get  am finding it really interesting. Also caught OH reading it during the week!!!!

I found it a good all rounder and if you want more info on any particular part you can just purchase a more in depth book on that subject   

Glad chewie has taken well to the crate too 

Where is the easiest place to get this book, as I think i may have to have a wee read 

[cazza]

Cazza I'm also half way through the book you advised me to get  am finding it really interesting. Also caught OH reading it during the week!!!!

I found it a good all rounder and if you want more info on any particular part you can just purchase a more in depth book on that subject   

Glad chewie has taken well to the crate too 

Where is the easiest place to get this book, as I think i may have to have a wee read 

You can borrow mine 

[Cazzie]

Cazza I'm also half way through the book you advised me to get  am finding it really interesting. Also caught OH reading it during the week!!!!

I found it a good all rounder and if you want more info on any particular part you can just purchase a more in depth book on that subject   

Glad chewie has taken well to the crate too 

Where is the easiest place to get this book, as I think i may have to have a wee read 

You can borrow mine 

Thanks sweetie 
Do you not need it as I have a voucher for wh smiths 

[cazza]

I've read it from cover to cover 

[Cazzie]

I've read it from cover to cover 

Oh well that will be great thanks 

[JasperPop]

Well done with the crate training, I am so glad things are going well.  I take it the OH is now converted??