Dog Won't Stop Whining

My dog won't stop whining when it's time to go into the crate.

My 3 year old pitbull/boxer is crate trained and has never had a problem going in his crate when I go to work. I have another dog in the crate next to him for company, they are best friends.

During the past few weeks my pit has been whining and barks when he goes in his crate. The other day he wouldn't go in his crate and stood in front of me with his paws on my shoulders.

Why is he doing this all the sudden? It's like he's scared of the crate now.

Gale's Reply:

Unless he is shaking or cowering, I wouldn't interpret your dog's actions as fear. I think it's more likely that your dog has decided he doesn't like being crated for long periods while you are gone. I think he's trying to distract you from leaving by trying to get you to play with him.

That said, for safety's sake, I'm a big believer in keeping dogs separated when you can't be there to supervise. And crating is one way to accomplish that. If crating is your best option, then you need to address the boredom and frustration factor.

Here are a few ideas:

1. Provide him with some special toys (nothing that would be a choking hazard) that he only gets to play with in his crate.
2. If you can manage it, go home for a play session during your lunch hour. Or have a trusted friend come over half way through your work day and give him a break from the crate.
3. Take him for a vigorous walk before you leave. If he's tired out, he'll be more likely to sleep when you're gone.
4. Play some soothing music while your gone. For example, Through a Dog's Ear, Music to Calm Your Canine Companion Vol. I Audio CD has been clinically proven to help dogs with separation anxiety. It may help your dog to settle down and relax while your away.

Good luck. Please feel free to write back and let us know how things are going with your pittie. Perhaps others will add their ideas here as well.