Escape Artist with her Crate
I’m in need of tips or ideas. I adopted a 6 year old ACD lab mix from the shelter a few months ago and she is such a good girl, except for when I leave her home alone.
She hates her crate, so she will pee immediately after I leave and will tug on it and try to get out for about 30 minutes before she settles down. Unfortunately, she has been successful in getting out numerous times and has broken 3 crates now.
I have tried many things to help her in the crate, including at least 20 minutes of walking or sniff time before putting her in the crate, enrichment toys, turning on the tv or playing sounds, putting a blanket over the crate, but none of it seems to help. I also plan to try some calming treats.
I would love to be able to leave her out, or even in my second bedroom, but when I’ve tried this before she pees in the house or on the bed and tends to destroy or get into things. I assume much of this behavior is likely due to separation anxiety. Does anyone have any ideas for how to help fix this issue or any crates that she wouldn’t be able to destroy that won’t break the bank?