I bought a raised feeder with an enclosed bottom to also store their food, which I find saves me SO much time when it comes to feeding them. It also reminds me to feed them, as I’m very absent minded.

Crate Training is fastest and most humane method of housebreaking dogs. Have you ever seen a dog under a table, chair or bed? The reason is that dogs naturally want to seek shelter, even in a house. If you don't provide it, they will create it themselves in an effort to feel safe and secure. A crate serves as a den for your dog.

2) How does crate training work?

Like babies, puppies cannot control their bladders until they mature (usually between 3 and 6 months). Dogs have a natural instinct to avoid eliminating in their dens. Therefore, confining your puppy in his crate for proper amount of time encourages him to "hold it" until you take him outside for a walk. Pet Dreams offers Free Crate Training Tips with more step-by-step details.

3) What about housebreaking older dogs?

It is never too late to crate train your dog! The number one reason dogs end up in shelters is behavior problems. Crate training, at any age, can help break bad habits and solve most of these problems.

4) How long do I need to use crate?

Crates are not just for training- they are good for lifetime of your dog. By providing a crate for your dog, you are in essence providing him with his own bedroom. Crates are especially important for older dogs that use it to escape hustle and bustle of everyday family life, which often includes small children or other pets that may harass them.

5) How safe is crate training?

Dog crates are best housetraining tool available. They provide a room for your dog while protecting your home furnishings from damage. However, even a crate isn't an absolute safe harbor for your pet. As per crate manufacturers warnings, you should always remove standard collars before placing your dog in a crate. Otherwise, your dog is at risk for possible strangulation if his collar or ID tags become caught in crate's bars. Pet Dreams' Cratewear bumpers are only bumpers made high enough to help prevent collar strangulation and other crate-related injuries.

6) I was told that dogs like their crates, so why do I have to force mine inside?

There are many reasons to not enjoy a bare metal dog cage.

• Comfort: When dogs lie down in their crates, they are leaning up against wire bars, which can be very irritating. Crate bumpers and pads, like Cratewear, provide comfort your dog will appreciate.
• Security: Wire crates leave your dog exposed on all sides. Crate covers provide den-like security.
• Location: Separating your dog from rest of family can add stress. Dogs are social animals, so ideal location is a room full of activity. Your dog will enjoy his new room while still being part of family. At night bedroom is an ideal place for a crate so your dog will feel security of being close to you.
• Time: Confining him in his crate for excessive periods of time will be a negative experience for your dog. After housebreaking your dog, we recommend removing door from crate so he can enjoy his den any time he chooses.