Day 2

Day 2 was all about working on crate training. Miss Dixie doesn't seem to mind being in the crate, but she sure has a problem GOING INTO it. So, I looked up a few handy dandy tips on crate training yesterday and it seems that you should bribe them like a fat kid. Offer snacks and then place some closer to the crate door and then put some inside until the dog gets comfortable coming in and out.

Well, I didn't have all the time in the world, it was bed time. So we tried a few french fries. I was throwing them in the back of the crate and she would go in and come out. After about 4 times of this and running low on the fries, I threw some more in and waited until only her butt was sticking out. Then I eased her in..."eased" is probably not the best word to describe it, seeings how I am moving a moose of a dog into a small space. Either way, it was a gentle shove, because I think she has part cat in her. Somehow she can dig those paws in and barely budge.

Once inside, she settled down and I gave her more fries. I happened to have an eager observant audience member...Daisy. Needless to say, she went into her crate with no qualms. I mean, if she can get a fry, she will do anything. So, that went smoothly. I set Daisy's crate next to Dixie's so they could see one another. They seem to be big buddies. Dixie just forgets how big she is and how little Daisy is.

Ahhh...peace, or so I thought. At about 3 am, not Dixie, but Daisy starts barking, then Scarlett starts barking, then Dixie decides she needs to join in on the serenade. I get up thinking Daisy must need to potty. Soooo, I let both Dixie and Daisy out. I'm debating this debacle because...um, I know I am going to have to go through the french fry crating routine once they go out. As I chain a leash on Dixie, I realize that it is sprinkling. UGH!!! Out we go, because the ladies have to go!

Do you know that heifer of a Daisy Dog, just sat there on the porch and looked at me? So, I'm gonna give her kudos and pretend that she was just trying to let me know that Dixie needed to potty. We did this routine again at 5 am, but this time it was Dixie who let me know she had to go. So, over all, potty and crate training are coming along smashingly.

On a closing note, I took Dixie to the vet today to have her limp checked out. Word is that she has had a previous femur fracture that didn't heal well. So, looks like Miss Dixie will always curtsey... as any lady would do. :0)