I started writing about Potty Training, and I realized what a huge topic it is. I thought it was probably best not to try to address the topic in one post, but in many small posts.
Today I want to talk about puppy fences, or puppy pens, or as I like to call them, puppy corrals.
Puppy corrals are great for potty training because they can hold your dog's crate, a puppy pad, and some room for food and water. This is a great setup for when you're home, but you can't keep a close eye on your puppy.
I had mine set up so it was next to the area where I spent most of my time, and when I was there, I would shift the fence a little to create a bigger corral so he could have some more space and access to me. But he still couldn't get out of my range and I could keep an eye on him. If he started acting like he needed to go, or surprised me and started to go I could quickly move him onto the pad midstream.
Potty training is about setting your dog up for success. Your puppy doesn't get access to any area of your home unless he's under supervision or will only go potty on a puppy pad. Then if your puppy goes elsewhere, it's your mistake, you overestimated his abilities.
Housebreaking takes a lot of time, but with a puppy fence, you can make it much easier on yourself. And they're useful after they're puppies too. I still use mine to block off areas I don't want Kody to go into.
We still use baby gates and Shopsy’s ex-pen to keep him out of trouble when we can’t devote enough attention to make sure he doesn’t get into too much trouble. Usually it’s to stop him running upstairs to retrieve slippers. His folding wire ex-pen also came in handy when we were decorating to keep him away from the wet paint.
Well, I feel verified. A friend just got two small puppies and that was exactly what I said to do. I have puppy pens, usually folded up, waiting. Though my youngest Doxie, Merlin, can climb over anything and up to any surface. Who ever heard of a table surfing Doxie.
I also travel with the pens so I feel safer visitng friends houses.
Taking them with you when you visit others is a great idea! I never thought of that.