Monday, May 23, 2011

Crate and Rotate: The Setup



How to set up a crate and rotate routine - 
Review your household schedule and routines. Then come up with a schedule and system that works best for everyone. Make sure all the family (including the dogs] know what this new routine is. You may have to tweak things until you find a system that works best for everyone. Be sure once you find what works best you stick to it. Consistency is the most important key here.

Decide on the who, what, where, and when to get yourself started. Who goes in which crate? What they will have to entertain them? Where will the crates be? When will they be using their crates? When will the bathroom breaks be? When will they eat?

Another thing to take into consideration is whether you need to separate the dogs. Yes you’ve separated them into crates. However, it doesn’t quite end there. Can they be crated in the same room? If any are possessive of their domain they’ll need separate rooms. 

If you’re a multiple dog home there’s some other things to consider. Can any of the dogs be out of their crates together? You may be lucky and have some dogs that can “share” these activities with each other.      

Perhaps none of them are able to share time with each other outside their crates don’t panic. Although it may feel like more work there are solutions. You will just have to rotate them all separately. This would be for all their activities - feeding, walking, bathroom time, exercise, training, and of course one on one time with the family.

Exercise is probably one of the most essential parts. Making sure your dogs are getting an adequate amount is important. This helps them mentally as well as physically. It gives them an outlet to burn excess energy. Remember the old saying, “a tired dog is a good dog.” Anxiety and tension can also be reduced, resulting in a more positive and relaxing crate experience. 

Remember not all Pit Bulls have dog on dog issues. However, part of being a responsible Pit Bull (or any breed) owner is being prepared. It’s important to be proactive instead of reactive. Always monitor your dogs and watch for any signs of a change in their normal behavior. Be ready to separate if it’s needed. Don’t forget - NEVER allow your dogs together without supervision. It only takes that one time for something to happen

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