Hiya! I just got a male 8 week old golden retriever last Saturday. I’ve never had a puppy before, only cats. I work from home but I’m a mental health therapist so I can’t leave my office 50 minutes at a time. I’ve tried desperately to crate train him but so far he doesn’t like it. He is fine going inside with the door closed but as soon as I walk away, he loses it. My partner has said we should let him cry it out. I’ve read 10-15 minutes is good but when I’m in session, I can’t get him out if he’s still crying. He will bark, scream, and make strange noises, biting the crate.
I’ve read conflicting advice of what to do. He’ll fall asleep easily on the couch within minutes as soon as I take him out. There have been a few times he’s been able to sleep but as soon as he’s awake, he freaks out. I feel like crying. I know it’s only been 6 days but I’ve tried all the positive associations with the crate, like pupsicles, all his meals in there, lots of treats, and toys. When he screams and cries, it elevates my heart rate and I just don’t know what to do. I worry he also has separation anxiety. Any tips would be great!
submitted by /u/tamarasophiee
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