How to introduce playpen to puppy.

[Maggie Mul]

We have had our pup Maggie, for 3 weeks. After some advice on here we have got a playpen for her to stay in for those times when we are in the house and can't supervise her, or for when we just nip out for 5-10 mins, so she doesn't always have to go in her crate. I think it will also be useful for when she gets very bitey/ nippy and it will give my kids a little breather from her. However, I am not sure how to introduce it to her. We live open plan so at the moment we have used it as a divider so she has part of the lounge\dining room, which is quite a big space for her to roam around in and her crate, toys, door to garden are in this part of the room anyway. We have left the pen open so at the moment she can see it, but can just wander in and out of both spaces. Should we do the same as we did with the crate and introduce slowly and for longer periods of time? Don't want to freak her out by suddenly shutting her off from us, especially if she can see us. thanks!

 

[JoanneF]

I haven't used a pen but your approach sounds sensible. Maybe also give her a kong or similar thing in there to occupy her.

 

[Maggie Mul]

Yes, am hoping it's the right approach. She has all her toys in this area of the house anyway, so hopefully its not going to be a massive shock. She is only being separated from the sofa - TV, area of the lounge, but this is just when we are busy. Otherwise she's often on there with one of us having cuddles!