CRATES, i.e., fort, meditation space, den, safe haven, personal retreat space

"EX-PENS", Exercise pen: i.e., mobile play space, romp room, fortress, toy corral, pad

Crates and Ex-pens are used as training and safety tools. I have found them to be the fastest, easiest way for most people to train their dog, creating appropriate behaviors and proper house etiquette from the start, so you do not have to correct wrong behaviors. The goal is to provide your dog with a place to play, with freedom, and still be safe. With an Ex-pen, you can offer your dog a contained space with appropriate chew toys teaching them the "right" things to chew. This way, the dog learns while earning larger spaces for the right behavior. An Ex-pen's versatility can turn it into many different shapes and sizes by opening up and fencing off larger areas, providing a progressive teaching space. It is also a place where dogs can play safely when you cannot give them 100% of your attention-and because an Ex-pen can be moved anywhere, your dog can always be "included."

Most dogs will love their crate if they are introduced to them in a fun way, or as puppies. A crate is the best place to start your puppy off with a sleep area. If you want a dog to sleep with you in your bed, my suggestion is to wait until they are older and all of their foundational training has been accomplished. You can still enjoy snuggle time with your pup before you sleep and again when you wake up.

COLLAR with a quick-release buckle & set of identification tags & 6' leash. Wider collars are more comfortable then thin ones. Immediately update ID tags; or, when visiting friends, tape their number on it. This is your fastest link to be reunited. Do not walk a puppy on a retractable leash. They are used only for exercise once you get to an area.

A GREAT VETERINARIAN that both you and your dog like and trust. Get referrals, then visit at least 2 of the vets unless a lot of your friends say they really appreciate one in particular. Over time, you will be trusting this person with important health decisions.

COMFORTABLE BED- for inside crate and spot outside of kitchen.

PLUSH TOYS at least 5-a few small ones for your pocket, medium for at class, large for home. Removable squeakers will be handy. The best ones don't have stuffing or removable eyes.

HARD PLASTIC CHEW TOYS at least 5 of the following: "Alone" toys (toys dog gets to chew when in a crate or when alone--Goodie balls, ships, Kongs TM, toys you can stuff with treats, hard plastic chew bones (Nylabones TM)

WATER BOWL- with water refreshed daily.

GROOMING SUPPLIES- Nail clipper & styptic powder, toothbrush, hairbrush. The sooner your puppy enjoys grooming, the better. Pick a hairbrush that fits the hair of your dog.

DOG FOOD-Top-of-the-line, healthy dog food and treats without by-products, corn, wheat, or soy! Your dog's health will depend a lot on the quality of food that you feed him. These days, there are many excellent choices.

Dancin Woofs Dog Training and Daycare©
Puppy through Advanced Classes • Behavior Counseling
312-3766 DancinWoof.com