Doggy Den dynamics

Canines instinctually seek out a cosy place to curl up and some dogs will nominate a place they would like to use as a den e.g. under your work desk. Ideally you can make a place you would like them to gravitate to – a place where they’ll be safe if unsupervised with nothing dangerous to chew etc. We regularly promote the value of crate training and crates make wonderful doggy dens however if you have a special spot for your dog to relax or he hasn’t already claimed an appropriate place you can encourage him by leaving treats there and or giving him meals there.

The main thing is, to let him think ‘he’ has chosen the spot, so be patient. Once he considers it a pretty good place to be (this can take a few days to a few weeks) you can begin closing the door, only for a few seconds to begin with. Prior to this, he should be allowed to come and go as he pleases. If he has everything he needs, a bed, water, a toy he’ll feel more at home. You can even hide a chew toy in there for him to discover. Be sure that a doggy den is not a place for punishment but more like a peaceful place to retreat to.

We would recommend children be instructed to leave the dog alone if he is on his bed. This way if he needs peace he can get it without having to ask.

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)