My dog wont use its new kennel

[Toneisok]

My dogs a springer around eight yrs old, usually stays in the house allday so i bought a new kennel, put in her favourit blanket but she doesn't use it. there is no creosoat smell and its the correct size. If i put her in our large rear garden and go shopping when i return she is sat on the back step gazing at the door in the rain. Any suggestions?

[pmjblue]

why put her in a kennel at eight years of age when she is used to staying in the house?

[clairey-s]

maybe because toneisok is out for a long time and doesn't wan't her dog shut in the house. not that that was the question.

toneisok, is it that she is scared of going in the kennel or she'd just rather be inside? Once she realises it is not scary (put food in there!) she should use it in the rain, as long as you don't leave her outside for too long, she's getting old...

=)

x

[Toneisok]

I have to go to work now and don't want to laeve her in the house though the summer.
she will go in if i put food in there but doesnt stay.

[pmjblue]

I tried it once with some young dogs that were used to staying in the house - I did the garage out with carpet, their beds and toys, but they never went in there - If it rained they were soaked through, so I gave up - they preferred the house.

[pmorley]

I have put a dog flap in, as I am also having to work now. might be an idea.

[pmjblue]

something that has also just occurred to me is dog nappers - they have been known to take dogs from the garden while there are people at home. Is there any particular underlying reason why you dont want to leave her in the house during the summer while you are at work. I personally think she may feel she is being punished if you start putting her in a kennel after 8 years - but I am a firm believer in dogs having a friend, and maybe if you got another dog she wouldnt sit by the back door pining.

[Dee Sa]

dog flap is the answer.We dont leave our animals [2 dogs] very often but when we do at least they have a choice of house or garden, living room[only]out of bounds with a child gate, this way they have a choice plus can wee outside as usual. No stress for us or them.