Crating dogs 1 at a time for proper time with each

[GypsysMom]

Today I started a new plan I crate each dog 1 at a time, Chopper is out while Gypsy naps and vice-versa. Does anyone think this is not a good idea?
It seems as though its alot more peaceful that way I can train Gypsy a bit more without interuptions. I like it this way so each dog gets quality time with me

[mejab]

I feel it is a good idea, because a lot of times dogs may develop separation anxiety from one another, and if you have to take one to the vet, or somewhere else, and leave the other dog at home, at least you know the dog at home will stay in their crate by themselves.

Sometimes I find it hard with 5 dogs myself to work with or train one at a time, so by you putting one in their crate and working with the other makes a lot of sense to me I usually bring one dog outside with me to work with, and leave everyone else in the house.

[spoiledbabies3]

Originally Posted by GypsysMom

Today I started a new plan I crate each dog 1 at a time, Chopper is out while Gypsy naps and vice-versa. Does anyone think this is not a good idea?
It seems as though its alot more peaceful that way I can train Gypsy a bit more without interuptions. I like it this way so each dog gets quality time with me

I have 3 rotties in the household. I have some training classes in the backyard (not all as we enjoy new surroundings/settings to keep it interesting). I also have a kennel run in the backyard, each rottie has his/her own time with mom and the other 2 share the kennel during this time. It allows the guys to "see" me, yet they are not interrupting and demanding attention during the training session. It has been great! Even the pup (5 mo old female) has done great. She just waits and watches (although this was a "learned behavior")...and all of them realize that during their own training time they get treats! Since each one is food oriented this has been a positive success. The kennel is also great when we need some time to do yardwork, i.e., mowing the grass or weedeating. They are safe and unable to get hurt, yet they are out and able to "see" everything.

Each one will need his/her own down time with mom and crates/kennels are tools that you can use to benefit you. Just In our house, crates are personal space that is positive not negative. If the crate is positively reinforced, it will be good for either one to have his/her own time and space. Have fun!

[JonandMichelle]

I see no problem with this...in fact, this is the life in my household. We do not allow our Rottweiler and Retired Military Working Dog out at the same time. They both get EQUAL time out while the other is crated and vice versa. We keep them seperated for safety issues and health issues (RMWD has problems). This way, there is peace in the house hold and the dogs are safe. We have not had a problem and they both seem to enjoy their own space and time. It can work if done right and fairly.

[GypsysMom]

Thanks I feel very good about this my next question is to spoiledbabies, how big is your dog run?

[spoiledbabies3]

Originally Posted by GypsysMom

Thanks I feel very good about this my next question is to spoiledbabies, how big is your dog run?

We put in a run in our back yard under 3 shade trees...the guys really love it! The run is 6' x 12'...I'm not sure what the normal size is, but it is great for our guys. We have put down 12x12 concrete blocks for the flooring...it helps to keep them cool and is very easy to clean. We also have 2 mounted water bowls in opposite corners that I can empty and fill with clean water very easily. We have netting placed over the top to help eliminate things falling from the tree directly into the kennel (i.e., broken branches after thunderstorms). It is bout 7' tall and has a gate on one end of it for safety reasons. When not in use the gate is padlocked. I have 3 guys...10 yo male (Samson) 107#, 5 yo male (Moses) 80# and 5 mo female (Deja Vu) 43#. They all have PLENTY of room. When my daughter visits we also add her 2 yo male Boxer (Rocky) to the mix. Hope this helps...it was a small investment and well worth every penny. It was purchased at Home Depot (I think) and I'm not sure whethere or not it is a normal size but it is quite comfy for the gang. Outside of the kennel area we have our training area where my DH laid red oversized rock on the ground. It looks nice and serves a great purpose for training. (It's also in a very shaded area under the trees.) Good luck and I hope this helps! Just remember, it's like the crate, you have to train them to understand that it is positive, not negative. We did the same as with the crate training by offering them treats inside and praising them when they were quiet. So keep up the good work, you and your guys will do great!