I'm all on board with crate training my pup (coming home tomorrow - 8.5 weeks). But this notion of the ex-pen confuses me.
If the theory of crate training is to avoid the opportunity for indoor accidents - doesn't using an ex-pen instead of the crate during the day just increase the chance of indoor accidents?
I would, of course, take the pup out every hour or so, but at 8-10 weeks, I'm thinking if she is in an ex-pen vs. a crate, more likely she will have an indoor accident.
I'm considering waiting and introducing the ex-pen a little later, when I think she is well on her way to being house trained.
Any thought on this or how you incorporated the crate and ex-pen (or if you choose not to), would be greatly appreciated.
Tracy Collins Webboard User Reg: 10-09-2008
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I agree with your instinct. A crate is the place for a puppy, IMO. I don't even own an x-pen. When the pup isn't in the crate, he's tethered to you, indoors and out.
I would, of course, take the pup out every hour or so, but at 8-10 weeks, I'm thinking if she is in an ex-pen vs. a crate, more likely she will have an indoor accident.
Hello Billie, I think the ex-pen would be if you could not take the pup out frequently enough and did not want eliminating in the crate to be the only option...I could be wrong but if your situation allows you the ability to get your pup out frequently enough I'd fore go the ex-pen too.
Add a picture of precious pup as soon as you can; I do love fuzzy baby fur balls!
Melissa Hoyer Webboard User Reg: 05-09-2005
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I would feel more comfortable using an x-pen with a pup once he/she has some potty training basics down pat.
Personally, I have one, but use it for my adult dogs when camping as it is an easy way to secure them in the tent when sleeping or when I cannot be holding on to them. My dogs just fall asleep in it.
I didn't use an ex-pen for my current GSD, it was tethered or crated for him. I do have a new pup coming Monday and I have the ex-pen set up. In Ed's DVD Your Puppy: 8 weeks to 8 months (new version) he goes all through the reasons why he uses ex-pens and their benefits. The main idea I pulled from it (and why I am going to try an ex-pen with my new puppy) is that the pup is in the ex-pen while you are right there in the same room. You would not leave a pup in the ex-pen and then walk away (they could jump out, pee, etc.) So, it's sort of like a big crate. Take them out to pee and then let them have some playtime in the ex-pen while you are .... reading or on the computer? That's how I got the use of them anyway. Also looks like a good jumping off place for having the pups calm down, sit before they get out of the ex-pen, etc. Check out the NEW version of the DVD it's all there.
I'm following the puppy video also. For me, the ex pen will allow the pup to be with the family plus it'll keep a little barrier between the new pup and our current dog. But, he wont be left in it unsupervised and I'll still crate him at night or when I'm gone.
Edited by Lori Jacobs (09/28/2011 03:45 PM)
Edit reason: my wording was stupid
I like the idea of the ex-pen as a "long tether". I too intend on using the ex-pen as a way to keep a barrier between my existing dog and my new pup. Don't have her yet...I'll weigh in when it's put to use!
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I've been searching topics on how to house my new puppy. I will be getting him in about a month and have already set up and outside kennel for him. I think to have him live outside though is not good especially at such a young age.
After reading this thread, I think I will go with an ex pen vs a crate simply for the eliminating factor. I dont have the schedule to let him out of a crate every so many hours. Im gone for at LEAST 8 hours of the day. An ex pen sounds like a better option for my schedule.
Anyone disagree? (I think Im opening a can of worms with this last statement LoL)
Clarify by spelling every little thing out. Some people can be extreme when drawing their own conclusions.
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Isn't an ex-pen just asking for indoor accidents?
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