Our crate training process + how we use the tool today

Our Australian cattle dog never struggled being left alone to the degree of being officially diagnosed with “separation anxiety”—but she did make it clear she preferred when we were together. The first few months after adopting her involved plenty of barking, whining, and pawing at doors. (Not great when you’re in an apartment.)

Her biggest struggle was FOMO (fear of missing out) when we were home but she was put away. She hated being able to hear us and not get in on the action. While that’s a very natural thing for a social mammal to experience, we wanted to increase her comfort for the inevitable situations where she can’t be involved (like if we have guests who are afraid of dogs or she’s injured and needs to rest).

Here’s a deep dive into our crate training journey!

1. The biggest benefits we’ve seen from building our dog’s tolerance to be left alone,

2. Our personal process, and

3. Details on how we use her kennel today now that she’s comfortable with it.

You can also read more about why I sup…