You and your dog will have a better experience with crates if you keep the following tips in mind:

1.  Make sure your kids understand the crate is for
dogs only.  It is not a playhouse for children.  Rover needs to know his crate belongs to him alone, and that his territory will not be invaded.

2.  Your dog may whimper and complain the first few times it is crated.  Never let the dog out when it is crying.  This will only make the problem worse.  If you do let the dog out you are teaching your pet that if it cries, it can come out.  You will probably find that after a few protests, your dog will accept the situation and quiet down.

3.  You are the pack leader and you are in charge!  Even if things don't go smoothly at first, don't give up.  Remember, you are doing your dog a favor by keeping it out of trouble when you can't be on hand to supervise.

4.  The crate is not meant for long hours of use.  When you are at home, your dog needs to be out and about with you.

5.  Make sure the crate is not sitting in drafts or direct sunlight.  I was shocked one day when I happened to walk by my Basenji's crate with wet, bare legs and discovered there was a cool breeze around my ankles.  So get down there on the floor at the level your pal will be and check it out.  You also need to keep in mind that areas of sunlight change as the seasons change, and change hourly as well.
                                            -Sally Ann Smith