Pet Information > ASK Experts > Dogs > Dog Breeds > Golden Retrievers > crate anxiety

crate anxiety

19 18:01:00

Question
I have a 12 wk old GR puppy.  I work out of my house so he is with me all day.  I do leave him for approx 40min during the day to pick up kids but not always if my husband is home.  I left him for 2hrs today because of kids needed rides and when I returned he was all stressed out and his chest was all wet from sweating.  He cries when I take him out of the crate but usually quickly recovers.  He was very upset today after the 2hr stay in the crate.  Is this normal and will he out grow it?  I took him out and played with him before I left.

Answer
How long have you had him?  I never have much trouble with 7-8 weeks old puppies adapting to being in a crate.  After 12 weeks old, they are less adaptable.  With a usually highly food motivated Golden, you could try the peanut butter in the Kong trick.  He could be too busy licking it out to worry about you being gone.