Using a fenced in patio vs. an exercise pen

[jamiegirl]

Has anyone tried using a fenced in patio instead of an exercise pen during crate training? We are currently doing well on the crate training of our almost 4 month old puppy. She hasn't had an accident in her crate ever since we took away the puppy pads (thanks to Adina's comment). We are, however, going to leave her by herself for about 8 to 9 hours for 1-2 days a week because of work. The cost of having a dog walker and puppy daycare is not really something that we looked into. I have read a lot about attaching an exercise pen to the crate but we have a fenced in covered patio and we thought that it might work for the purpose. The patio is about 20x12 feet only. I have also read somewhere that open spaces can be a cause of anxiety for puppies. Is this a good idea? Should we expect some regression with her potty training if she is not expected to hold it in like she currently has to with her crate? We are new puppy parents and we need help. Thanks.

[Leslie, Dexter & Kirby]

We did something similar with Dexter, but we fenced off a part of our kitchen instead. We work 5 days a week, but were coming home at lunch for the first 8 months of his life. It worked well for us. I didn't want to be crating him 9 hrs a day so I thought a larger space would be better. Once he hit 3-4 months he never had accidents in his little area and he was 100% potty trained by 5-6 months.

Good luck :)

[Christine + Ellie]

Did you proof your kitchen? I'm thinking of gating off my doodle in the kitchen since I work 9-5 as well. I've been coming home at lunch for the past 2 weeks but it's getting more and more difficult since work has become increasingly busy.

I know she loves to sniff and attempt to knaw on the stainless dishwasher and fridge. I'm wondering if there's some sort of protection I can use so she doesn't destroy my kitchen!

[Noble Vestal Labradoodles]

I might have missed it but is your entire yard also fenced? If not someone could walk right up and snatch your dog. If she gets bored she will likely bark. How will your neighbors respond to a barking dog during the day?

[Janie]

Would it be to hot or cold on your patio.....doodles are really hot natured. I would be afraid someone would steal her in a heartbeat if they could.