AboutSandy Case MEd, CPDT Expertise Questions on basic and advanced dog training, motivation, positive training, clicker training, behavior issues (though serious issues - like human aggression - are best addressed by an in-person professional
Experience 30 years training & titling my own Australian Shepherds in Obedience (all levels) agility, herding, volunteer and professional instructor for similar length of time. ASCA obedience judge - all levels, past training director, OCOTC (x3) Sooner Agility Club. Current training director and owner, Positively Canine, LLC
Organizations ASCA, APDT, OCOTC, ITASC
Publications Aussie Times - obedience editor
Education/Credentials BFA, MEd, CPDT
Awards and Honors Multiple obedience titles 20 CDs, 12 CDX, 4 UD, 1 ASCA OTCH, Agility titles, Stock and herding titles, Multiple DWA, Multiple National Rankings, Delaney Ranking, Multiple Gaines regional qualifications, 2 Nationals HIT, Front and Finish rankings, Multiple Dog World Awards
orld Awards
Past/Present Clients Some may be seen in the testimonial portion of our website www.positivelycanine.com
Question My dalmatian puppy is 8 & 1/2 weeks old, he weighs 15 Lbs. I've had him for three days. He is a really great puppy--he's going to the door with me and going out to his spot every hour to potty. He comes running to me for praise and treats. He settles down at night to sleep with me. I need to be able to crate him for one hour per day and I cannot get him to stop howling etc. in his crate. He is not pottying in his crate and I only crate him when sure he doesnt need to go potty. He wont chew a toy in there, he just attacks the door and howls nonstop. I try to practice for a few minutes then release him but I dont want to let him out of his crate when he's howling. Its a plastic crate the correct size for him, well ventilated. What can I do? He's not an overly clingy puppy; I can move from room to room in the house and if he's sleeping or chewing on a toy he doesnt always follow me. He has also started using the dog-doors on his own.
Answer I would train him to go in the crate and wait (with the door open). I'd probably do this with a clicker - and tossing treats in, then letting him come back out so he doesn't feel trapped. Then ask him to wait a second, then two. Of course, if he does pitch a fit with the door closed, it's important to wait for at least a second of quiet, or raising a ruckus is being rewarded. With rescue dogs I always start out by feeding them in their crate. Other than that he sounds great! Sandy Case MEd, CPDT www.positivelycanine.com
