My new rescue is frightened of the crate (possibly used for discipline) for reasons we can only speculate. Is restricting him on a leash when we go out a option? Any ideas?

I believe your dog has separation anxiety, which is a very common but difficult problem. This is very common in rescue dogs.

I would read this article on dogs that break out of crates. I would not risk restricting him on a leash without someone present, I would work on crate training him in small increments when you are home and gradually work up to blocks of time which would allow you to leave him crated while you are away. Some dogs never get over this completely, it may be a lifelong management issue.

We also have a q & a section on separation anxiety that may help you.

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Cindy Rhodes