Weimeraner Crate Training

Question
Hello,

I have an 13 month old female Weimeraner. I can not get her crate trained. I have tried everything, but I still can not get her to consistently refrain from peeing in her crate. I work and I am away for about 9 hours a day and this is when the accidents happen (she is fine at night). She also has separation problems and this manifests itself by soiling in the house if she is left alone for the shortest of times. This is absoultey the most loving and energitic dog I have ever owned but I am at the end of my rope. I am considering building an outdoor kennel for her, which I do not want to do.

Answer
Hello, Brian. I hope I am able to help you. First, how large is the crate, and do you put bedding material in it? Do you give her anything to chew on or otherwise keep her occupied when she is in the crate? Is she on a feeding schedule? When do you feed/water her, and when do you put her in the crate? Have you done anything about the separation anxiety?

Depending on where you live, there is nothing at all wrong with building her an outdoor kennel to stay in during the day, so don't feel bad about that idea. As long as it doesn't get excessively hot or cold, she should be fine, and even if it does get cool during the day, as long as she has a good insulated dog house with cedar shavings inside it, she should be just fine. You can buy a good size kennel in a box at your local Home Depot or Lowe's. It's 13 feet long, 7 1/2 feet wide, and 6 feet high, and you can also buy a top to go over it (or make one, like I did).