Healthy dogs live relatively happy, active lives. They love being around their people, running in the yard, chasing balls, eating leaves, digging up dirt, and playing. Crating for days or weeks is rarely advised, but it’s also occasionally exactly what sick or healing pups need to stay quiet and encourage relaxation and healing. If your vet recommends it, it’s for a good reason!
But just because you understand that doesn’t mean your dog will, too.
That leaves you, the valiant yet annoyed-by-whining-as-you-read-this owner, to do your best to convince your pup that crating isn’t all bad. From making crate training a part of your everyday schedule to giving your sweet pup opportunities to play quietly, here’s our favorite tips to beat the boredom.
Regular Crate Training
You won’t have this option if your dog is injured or becomes suddenly ill, but it’s worth considering if you’re playing ahead of the game. Spend some time acclimating your dog to the crate with crate training before crate rest becomes necessary.
It helps to create a safe place for your dog to go and rest, and often, gives pet parents a bit of a break when you can’t have eyes on your dog at all times. Your dog’s familiarity with the crate will make him less anxious if/when he has to stay in it for extended periods.
Keep the Leash On
Keep a leash on your dog at all times during crate rest. You’ll be able to quickly grab the leash when you open the crate door, preventing your pup from trying to run out. The leash should stay on, even if you’re cuddling in front of the TV. This approach will keep your dog from running off if startled, jumping off the bed, or making any other sudden movements.
Cuddle Time
Look – we’re breaking the rules already. Crate confinement doesn’t necessarily always have to be in the crate. Your dog needs to be quiet, calm, and still, and you can probably use some downtime, too.
Find a comfortable spot where you can both lay, dim the lights for a soothing environment, find something to listen to or watch on TV, and give your dog some quality cuddle time. Throw in a few extra ear scratches while you’re relaxing together, and your pup will know you’re there and you care.
Mental Stimulation
Canine mental stimulation is just as important as physical stimulation, so shift your focus while your dog can’t get out and exercise. The key is to find reward-based toys that force your dog to think and work to access his food. They take time and thought, and not every dog “gets” it right away, but your dog will ultimately earn his reward.
There are a couple of critical factors to remember with this type of stimulation. First, make sure you are using a toy that isn’t too easy, but that won’t frustrate your dog at the same time. Balance is especially vital, especially if food-toys aren’t a part of your routine.
There is one caveat; you should avoid this type of toy if your dog is unwell to the point that he may not have the energy or motivation to engage with the game. Otherwise, he may end up not eating enough to recover properly.
The second thing to remember is that you don’t want to over-feed your dog while he’s on crate rest. Yes – this does mean you shouldn’t lean too heavily on food-toys alone.
Measure the food your dog eats on a daily basis, including treats, and take part of that food to use in the toys. Your dog will get part of their daily nutrition via the toy, while the rest comes at regular mealtimes. They won’t even notice their regular meals are a little smaller.
Pro tip: when using kong toys, stuff them with peanut butter, mashed potatoes, or even your pup’s favorite canned food. Then, freeze them until they’re solid. Frozen food is harder to get out of the toy, but won’t take too long to melt, making your dog work a little harder without frustrating him.
Schedule Breaks
Crate rest doesn’t mean your dog can never leave the crate or move around; in fact, breaks here and there are usually fine. You’ll need to talk to your vet about guidelines regarding whether your dog can walk or if he needs to be carried, but generally, it’s fine to take the occasional trip outside to go potty. Keep your dog on a leash (if walking) to prevent escapes. Make sure you move slowly to avoid aggravating injuries or stitches.
Move the Crate
Your dog is a huge part of your life, but his crate may be tucked away in a kitchen or another room for convenience. This approach may be ideal for the average day, but it’s unwise for crate rest time.
When your dog is free to roam, he follows you wherever you go and enjoys your company. It’s essential for your dog to feel like he’s still a part of his pack while on crate rest. This may mean moving the crate to a busier place in your home so that he can see and hear you more often. Regular contact will make your dog less anxious about being in the crate.
Do Not Disturb
Try not to over-stimulate your dog. Ask your family members and friends to call before visiting, or arrange to meet them away from your home. Put a note on your front door asking delivery people to leave packages without knocking to avoid disturbing your injured dog. Do whatever you can to create white noise so that your dog isn’t bothered by other outside sounds, including people coming and going. You may even want to cover the crate with a sheet during the first few days so your pup isn’t as bothered by visual movements.
Consider Sedatives
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, dogs become irritated and restless during crate time. The cause might be boredom, annoyance, or even just general unhappiness due to their procedures, medications, and the side effects of waning anesthesia. Dogs can also sometimes become agitated as they begin to feel better and want out of the crate.
Sedation should never be a default choice, but you may find it essential in the first couple of days of your dog’s recovery period. If your vet recommends it, trust that they really think it’s best to help him stay calm, relaxed, and comfortable – not to mention keeping you sane. A dog who panics or becomes too restless may re-injure themselves or even cause harmful internal damage that might extend their stay inside.
Talk to your vet about both prescription and natural remedies. You may need a mild prescription sedative, or your dog may react well to something like melatonin instead. Veterinary science has many incredible options to help keep your pup safe.
Be Strong!
Your dog is going to give you sad puppy eyes, and you’re going to want to let them start roaming the house. Resist the urge! Your vet recommended crate rest for a reason. The better you are at helping your dog comply, the sooner they will heal and get back to their fun-loving routine!