We have an 8 week old puppy who is great in her crate at bedtime in the room with us. I can place her in there when she's sleepy and she will curl up with her blanket and go to sleep. She stays in there fine overnight as well with a potty break or two.
When she's beginning a nap in the day I can also put her in her crate and she doesn't mind. When I hear her waking up from her nap, however long that is, I'll take her out.
I cannot for the life of my get her to stay in her crate if she is not sleeping or about to be. She will cry, whine, yell, scratch at the corner, teeth around the door, etc.
I've spent a few days luring her in with treats, rewarding her when she is calm, closing the door, walking away 10 ft, etc and seems ok with that. But if I try to put her in there, give her a couple treats and leave for more than 15 seconds she goes nuts and sounds so distressed.
I took a week off work to be with her while she adjusts to her new environment but on Friday I need to go back and the thought of her being so upset for the day (I'll be home on lunch to check on her and take her out) is heartbreaking.
I'm sure (at least I hope so) she will adjust with time/age, but is there anything I can try over the next couple of days to get her ready for Friday?
I have her nap in the crate a couple of times per day, and the others I'll let her nap out on her bed. Should I be doing every nap in there?
Is it safe to leave her in the crate while she is acting that way?
submitted by /u/tonebastion
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