Beagle and crate training

Question
I recently rescued a beagle. He is about 14 months old. Even though the foster parent told me that he didn't like the crate, but would eventually become accustomed to it. First night, no problem, he fussed but was fine during the night. But the next day, when I put him into the crate to go out for a few hours, the dog was beside himself. I felt badly, but I had to leave. When I consulted the vet, he suggested a smaller room than the living room (and of course, music; I had left the tv on) because the dog probably feels insecure: separation anxiety. I will try the smaller room-that makes sense. I like the suggestion of the open door with treats and I have been doing that. Does anyone else have some suggestions? After all, no matter how much any of us love our dogs and do not want to stress them out, there must be methods beyond medication. I hope for help.

Answer
HI, I agree with the vet, try a small room. I personally don't crate my dogs but there are people who swear by it. My feeling is you have a "teenaged" dog, he's a beagle (which means he's a pack dog and hates being alone) and his history is somewhat unknown so who knows what the previous owner did right or wrong with him. He needs to be trained as if he was a brand new puppy learning the ropes. Dog proof the room you choose (and please dont pick a bathroom with the door closed, this will put him over the edge)Leave the radio on for him, and provide him with  either a stuffed "Kong" or nylabones or rawhide and ONLY give him those types of things when you are leaving him so he thinks it is special. I will attach a site with info on proper crating if you choose to go that route again,

Good luck!

http://www.inch.com/~dogs/cratetraining.html