To Crate Train or Not to Crate Train Your New Boston Terrier Puppy

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To crate train or not to crate train

Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting and joyful experience. But with that excitement comes a lot of responsibility, including the decision of whether to crate train your new furry friend.

Crate training is a popular method of house training puppies that involves using a crate or cage as a safe space for your puppy to rest and sleep. The idea behind crate training is to teach your puppy that their crate is their own personal space, a place where they feel safe and secure.

But is crate training the right choice for your puppy? Let's explore the pros and cons of crate training to help you make an informed decision.

Pros of Crate Training:

• Provides a safe and secure space for your puppy to rest and sleep.
• Helps with potty training by encouraging your puppy to hold their bladder and bowel movements until they are let out of the crate.
• Helps prevent destructive behavior and keeps your puppy from getting into things they shouldn't be.

Cons of Crate Training:

• Some people think using a crate is cruel and restricts the dog's freedom.
• If not done properly, crate training can lead to anxiety and fear in your puppy.
• It can be difficult to properly time how long your puppy stays in the crate.

If you do decide to crate-train your puppy, it is important to do so properly. Here are some tips for successful crate training:

• Introduce your puppy to the crate slowly, allowing them to explore it on their own terms.
• Make the crate comfortable and inviting with a soft bed, toys, and treats.
• Gradually increase the amount of time your puppy spends in the crate, starting with short intervals and working up to more extended periods.
• Never use the crate as punishment or for extended periods of time.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to crate-train your new puppy is up to you. It is important to consider your lifestyle, your puppy's personality, and your goals for training before making a decision. With proper training and patience, crate training can be a positive experience for both you and your furry companion.

As breeders of Boston Terriers, we have found that crates work best for us and our lifestyles. The moment a new puppy comes home we start introducing them to their crate. We start out with smaller crates and work out way up to bigger sizes. We also utilize travel crates for safe travel.

If you have decided to utilize a crate when you bring your puppy home we have found that it's best to put them in a travel crate and set it next to your bed at night. They need to smell you and hear you. I have found that if they wake up in the middle of the night it's also easier to take them out immediately or place your fingers inside the crate to help calm them. Most of the time they are just lonely at night and placing your fingers in the grate of the cage is enough to get them to settle down and stop crying.

Expert Advice on Selecting the Best Dog Daycare and Boarding for Your Furry Friend

Top tips to help you choose the best doggy daycare and boarding facilities for your beloved pet

As a dog owner, one of the most important decisions you'll make is where to board your furry friend when you're away. Whether you're going on vacation or have a busy work schedule, finding the right daycare or boarding facility is crucial to ensuring your dog is happy, healthy, and safe. In this blog post, we'll cover some tips for finding excellent daycare and boarding for your dog, as well as what to watch out for.

1. Do your research

Before choosing a daycare or boarding facility for your dog, it's important to do your research. Look for reviews online and ask other dog owners for recommendations. Visit the facility in person and observe how the staff interacts with the dogs. Check if they have separate areas for small and large dogs if they offer playtime and exercise and if they have a veterinarian on call.

2. Check for certifications and licenses

Make sure the facility you choose has the necessary certifications and licenses. Look for certifications from organizations like the Pet Care Services Association (PCSA) or the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS). These certifications ensure that the facility meets certain standards of care for animals.

3. Ask about staff training and experience

The staff at the daycare or boarding facility should be trained to handle dogs of all sizes and temperaments. Ask about their experience and training, and find out if they have any certifications in animal behavior or handling. A well-trained staff will be able to handle any situation that arises, and ensure that your dog is safe and happy.

4. Watch out for overcrowding

Make sure the daycare or boarding facility isn't overcrowded. Dogs should have enough space to move around and play, and there should be enough staff to supervise them. Overcrowding can lead to stress, fighting, and the spread of diseases. Ask about the facility's capacity and how many dogs they care for at one time.

5. Check for cleanliness

A clean facility is essential for your dog's health and well-being. Look for clean and well-maintained facilities, with separate areas for playtime, eating, and sleeping. Make sure the facility is free of feces, urine, and other waste, and that they have a plan in place for cleaning and disinfecting the facility.

6. Ensure they offer proper nutrition and medication

If your dog has special dietary needs or requires medication, make sure the facility can accommodate these needs. Check if they provide food and water and if they can administer medication as prescribed by your veterinarian. Ensure that they have a plan in place for any medical emergencies that may arise.

In conclusion, finding excellent daycare and boarding for your dog takes time and effort, but it's worth it to ensure your furry friend is happy, healthy, and safe. By doing your research, checking for certifications and licenses, and watching out for overcrowding and cleanliness, you can find a facility that meets your dog's needs and gives you peace of mind.

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