Crate training a puppy and working third shift?
I will be adopting a 10-week-old Boston terrier next month and am trying to make sure that I have everything set up in advance. I work third shift and plan to crate train her. I’m taking a week off when I first get her and I’m going to try to start her on her routine right away so that hopefully when I am at work later she won’t cry all night and irritate my neighbors. I plan to leave several toys and a blanket that smells like her littermates in the crate with her. I have heard that a ticking clock wrapped up in something soft will also soothe the puppy – has anyone tried this? How many nights does it usually take a puppy to get used to being in the crate? I’m going to play with her and walk her every night before leaving in the hopes that she’ll be tired and will sleep most of the night. Does anyone have any tips?
Putting toys and a blanet in there is great, but neither those nor the alarm clock (old wives tale) will help. As to how long it takes, all puppies are different, you have to wait and see.
To help her get used to the crate quicker, use it when you’re home. Put a treat in there, let her walk in and get it. It’s ok if she comes straight out. Keep doing that, then throw in a chewy, encouraging her to lie down. Close the door and leave her in it – only for a couple of minutes at first, then let her out.
You need to make sure you only let her out when she’s quiet. If you let her out when she’s whining or crying, you’re teaching her that if she makes noise, she gets out and that’s not what you want.
Sounds like you’re planning ahead and going about everything the right way. All puppies are going to cry their first few nights in the crate. You need to grit your teeth and totally ignore her, except to take her out to pee, and only when she’s quiet.
Walking her before bed is also a great idea. Good luck with your new puppy!
Border Collie Sheepdog Cute Dogs Puppies playing Movie Trailer