Need some advice quickly

[travis ronni]

We picked up our boy today and he had a very busy day. We thought for sure with all that we did today it would help him sleep tonight. Well we were wrong. After 2 hours of our poor baby screaming crying and howling (okay wasn't just him crying, I'm in tears too!) Travis decided to lay next to him on the floor. Now both Travis and Olek are calm (and at least Travis is sleeping) but I'm just not sure what to do. We can't sleep on the floor every night. What can we do to make crate training easier? I have also been told that crate training and crating at night can do more harm than good to this breed? Please someone help us. We just want our boy happy and safe!

Thank you in advance,
Ronni

[karenz]

I can tell you what I did with Xander, maybe it was the right thing or maybe it wasn't but it worked. At bedtime I put him in the crate and went to bed and let him scream. After 2 or 3 nights he didn't scream any more. Don't take him out of the crate when he is screaming. All that does is teach him that screaming gets him what he wants. Wait patiently until he stops and then take him out. Hope this helps. I know you may feel sorry for him but don't give in. It will get better. Buy more alcohol and it will be easier to deal with.

[travis ronni]

I cried all night with him. We kept him in the crate all night (except to take him to pee). I'm not sure if I helped that I made a bed next to his crate or just made it worse but we all got some sleep! Thank you for the advice! I guess we will be trying to ignore him again tonight

[ICE]

Put the crate on your nightstand right by your bed. I have done this with all my puppies (GSD and DS) works great. They can see you and you can put your fingers in if they need contact.

[travis ronni]

That is a great idea!!!! Thank you!!!

[Owned-By-Hendrix]

Check out Susan Garett's Crate Games. This will also help make life easier in the long run.

Also, welcome to DS ownership! What you thought would work... usually doesn't... story of the DS. And I mean that sincerely - we have all been there at one point or another. That's why we recommend having a large tab at the local alcohol store.

[travis ronni]

Thank you I will look that up now! We are learning quickly not to expect anything lol. Maybe I'll take a shot or 2 before bed tonight

[Dutchringgirl]

I also had Sadies crate right next to my bed with my clothes in it. Let them cry it out, it will suck for a while but it will be worth it

[travis ronni]

Thank you everyone so much! Olek had a MUCH better night last night!!!! Making a few more slight adjustments tonight. I think we might be almost there!