[jessaroo]

Not sure if this really qualifies as a behavioral issue but, does anyone crate their dog as a regular part of the daily ritual, not for any behavioral issues or getting under-foot, but just because? And if so,why?

I'm just curious. Wondered if it had some kind of calming influence or affect. Some theorize that a dog needs/wants his own space. Previous dogs all had their own crates for sleeping and would go there on their own at times. Current dog is crated trained but sleeps on a dog bed in the den. Don't believe I've ever seen him go to the crate on his own.

Second question - anyone out there in a one-dog household? Do you think a dog can be happy and fulfilled in that kind of environment? Up to a month ago we were a 2-dog home but Jess is no longer with us. Rescue Kaiser is now home alone all day. I try to fill the rest of his day with exercise, play and interaction, and on the weekend, when husband is at work, he gets me all day long. That's when I try and plan our adventures. A dog walker is out of the question and I haven't found too many neighbors willing to join a play group with him! Getting a second dog is also not in the plans. One youngster is all I can handle at a time.

Hubby already thinks I spend way too much time with dog and not enough time with hubby but one listens a WHOLE lot better than the other! Hubby also thinks I worry too much about this!