That's my intention. My GF usually leaves for work at 1500, and when I class up, I'll be getting home at about 1645, so he would really only be in there for a couple hours at a time, but I would MUCH rather have him caged up for a couple hours but still alive and unharmed when I get home to take him out and run and play!
Good stuff! With a metal crate I usually place a cover over it an old sheet or blanket will do fine. It gives the dog a sense of security and helps stop some distractions.
My old girls,had to put her down a year ago was afraid of thunderstorms so she would seek refuge in her crate. I used a large plastic type so I could cover it completely,as soon as I covered the door she would finally settle down and ride out the storms.
It seems you have learnt your first lesson,ignore bad behavior and praise proper,this is especially true when dealing with a pup! You want your GSD to be confident and disiplined,punishing bad behavior in a pup can do more harm than good. If the pup gets too out of control,a time out in his crate will do wonders..... I should add dont leave to dog in the crate too long as that may be considered "cruel".
Oh and remember until it's about 6 months it's still a baby and wont have total control over bowel and bladder,frequent trips outside after play,eating sleep,etc. as I said before will help but accidents will happen.
If you want a cheap toy for the dog,trust me you can spend a fortune on toys,get a length of natural fiber rope,jute,sisal or cotton and cut it into 2 to 3 ft lengths then try some big knots in it! I like the rubber tires they have for dogs,about the only toy that lasts more than a day with mine!
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