Beau gets crate trained!

Now that the cone of shame is finally off, we decided to start crate-training Beau. Previously, we've been keeping him in the backyard whenever we couldn't supervise him, but it's just getting too hot to continue doing that. He's taking to it surprisingly well. I wouldn't go so far as to say he LIKES it, but he's definitely tolerating it.

I started by creating a trail of dog treats from the outside of the crate to the very back of the crate, letting him slowly walk into the crate. Then while he was distracted by treats, I closed the door and slowly backed away, giving him treats whenever he express discomfort. Within 15 minutes, he had gotten the hang of things and was lying down quietly in the crate. Then my sweet fiancee went and bought him a Nyla bone and Kong to entertain him in the crate, which he LOVES. This is the kind of pup who is sometimes too smart for his own good, so finding ways to keep him stimulated and engaged is a must.

But look how cute he is in his crate! He's currently taking a nap while we watch the History channel, so I think  that's a good sign. We'll work on keeping him in the crate for a little longer each day until he starts going to it automatically. My own dog loves this crate and will go into it herself when she wants some peace and quiet. And so far, it seems to be keeping Beau peaceful and quiet! =)