Signs you can trust your dog alone in the house

[BetsyB]

We always used the crate whenever we went out, whether for 5 minutes, or 3 hours, until Mackensie was about 14 months old. (Of course, she usually goes with us unless it's a trip to the grocery store, or the restaurant). She is usually a very well behaved girl, and I started giving her a little freedom at a time. She never did anything naughty when we left. She's not a chewer, and I thought I could trust her completely. Now, when we leave, she is not crated at all. I have video taped her a couple of times, and she just sleeps for as long as we're gone!

[taryndanae]

I agree with Ariki. Cassius is a monster and so playful when I have a watchful eye, nevermind if I wasn't watching him!!

[dckstryn]

Hi, my dog is storm and he is 20 months old. I never put him in a crate. For some reason I just had a problem with that. I bought 2 five foot leashes, hooked them together and tied him to my coffee table, which was by the french doors and couch. I would leave him for 3 hours come back and no messes and he has never chewed any furniture in my house. One day I forgot to tie him and ever since he just has run of the house all day. I did a lot of research on Boxers after my husband got him, and I believe this to be true is you just walk out the door, don't speak to them when leaving. And when you come home wait about 5 minutes before you talk to them. That supposily will help. I also have bell trained him, so when he wants to go out he rings this big cow bell. He will play with his red ball out side every minute he can.It is to funny.I think he should teach soccer. Good Luck

[ncaton]

We crate both of ours, our 9 mnth old is an absolute moster as soon as your back is even turned. I want to crate him when I blink! If there is a pencil in the kids back pack hanging on the hooks by the door, he will push his nose in there and take one out to eat! This is with the 27 toys on the floor including big bones! Now our 2 yr old can be left out, but then Cody starts howling and Cassie ends up going to her kennel and sleeping anyways. They are all different, but boy don't we love them!!!!