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Originally Posted by jemi152

Hello! I'm new to this formum and have been reading practically every thread! I recently rescued an 8 year old male rott, Bear. He is a big sweetheart with some issues.

First, I keep him in a crate when I'm not home, he howls for the first half hour (from what I hear from my neighbors) He destroyed his first crate, which was a cheap one the shelter gave me. He was out when I got home (no accidents and everything was intact). I bought a second, larger more heavy duty crate and he already somehow cracked the plastic pan on the bottom in half. How can I get him to realize the crate is ok and I will be back?

Second, he barks at anyone that comes in the house or around the house. I'd like him to realize people aren't bad and that the people coming and going are friends and family. We are starting obendience class at the end of the month and I'm hoping that will help. I'm also trying to get him into a play group to socialize more with other dogs. If anyone is located in Rochester, NY, lets meet up!

I appreciate any and all help.

Thank you!

Do you have another (safe) room in the house that you could use instead of the crate? A room that you could make dog-proof? Like a laundry room?