One of the most lovable things about dogs is their attachment to you, their pet parent. They want to be wherever you are — no ifs, ands, or buts. Although you, of course, adore spending time with your four-legged friend, there are times when you might want your space — for instance, when it’s time to go to sleep.

Dogs don’t always understand these boundaries at first, but it is possible to train them to sleep in their crate, a dog bed, or anywhere else you prefer that’s not your sleeping spot. With these five tips and tricks, you can learn how to keep your dog off your bed and in their own in no time.

Why do dogs want to sleep on your bed?

When you bring a pup home, you become part of their pack. While the dominance theory has been thoroughly debunked, they still want to sleep in close quarters with you and anyone else they deem to be in the group. Sleeping next to you helps them feel safe and happy.

Plus, it’s really comfy to lie in your soft and warm bed with your fuzzy blankets. Because canines often go by smell, they may also be attracted to the scent you leave behind. Approximately 50% of dog owners report sharing their bed with their dog, but that doesn’t mean you have to join the crowd.

Methods for keeping your dog off your bed

There are a lot of great approaches and tips you can follow to keep your dog in their own comfy bed. The most important thing to remember is that you’re not being “mean,” you are simply being firm. Read on to learn about the best ways to achieve this bedtime goal:

1. Consistency is key

When it comes to training your dog to do something, it is important to always remain consistent and firm. Always use the same commands, such as “off” to get them off your bed, or “place” to get them into their bed. By using the same commands over and over again, your dog will begin to react almost instantly. You can always use rewards like affection, praise, their favorite toy, or small treats to reinforce the good behavior. This type of training can take weeks or months to fully click with your dog, so it is important to be patient.

2. Get your dog a bed they can’t refuse

If your dog has the comfiest bed on the market, they may not even miss sleeping next to their favorite person. There are so many amazing beds available online and in pet stores. You can do some research and read reviews to see what beds are loved the most.

3. Keep them close by

Just because you are kicking your dog off the bed doesn’t mean you need to keep them out of the room. A setup near your bed or right outside of your bedroom will promote a sense of security for your dog and will help them accept this new sleeping arrangement.

4. Reinforce with the “off” command

One of the best commands you can use for this type of training is “off.” This word is short and easy to say. It is important to say it firmly and point to the floor to give your pup some direction. Whenever you find your dog on your bed, immediately command “off” and then reward the behavior once they hop down.

5. Use placement training

Just like “off,” you can utilize another short word like “place” to give your dog some direction. The word “place” can be used to describe their very own bed. By telling them to go to their place, they have a sense of direction. You can use both “off” and “place” consecutively to let them know it is bedtime.

Why keep your dog off your bed in the first place?

Although many of us love bedtime snuggles with our furry best friends, there are quite a few benefits to keeping your sleeping spaces separate. Some of these reasons include:

• Better sleep for you. Dogs tend to be bed hogs. They love to stretch out and get comfy. Although this is great for them, it’s not so great for you. People usually sleep better when they have the space they need to rest. It is also common for loud snoring from your dog to create some issues at bedtime.

• Your bed stays soft, not furry. Shedding is a common characteristic of nearly every breed of dog. Some shed way more than others, but their small hairs still end up everywhere, regardless of breed. When you don’t allow your dog on your bed, your bed stays cleaner and less hairy. The excessive shedding on your bed can cause itchiness on your skin and face, not to mention some unintentionally swallowed hairs in your mouth.

• Fewer trips to the laundry room. Very few dogs wear shoes outside every day and take a daily bath before bedtime. Because of this, it is easy for dogs to track dirt, insects, and debris onto your soft sheets. By keeping your dog off your bed, you’ll spend less time washing your sheets and more time enjoying them.

Keeping your dog off your bed requires consistency, patience, and firmness. You have to do everything you can to resist those puppy eyes. You will be happy you did in the long run, though, because both you and your pup will benefit from a better night’s sleep every time.

As pet parents, we’d like to think that we have every solution for behavior issues, like how to stop a dog from peeing in his crate. Your buddy can’t exactly tell you why he pees in the crate when you’re not home, though, and you can’t always catch him in the act — so it can be tricky.

Luckily, with a keen eye and a few trial runs, you’ll figure out the problem in no time. You can always enlist your family, vet, or local doggie daycare to keep an eye out, too, but it’s up to you to make the necessary changes to change the behavior. Anything from a more consistent routine to a new treat-dispensing toy could be the difference between cleaning up a puddle or coming home to a happy pup.

Here’s how to stop your dog from peeing in his crate.

First, rule out medical issues as a cause for crate incontinence

Before anything else, it’s important to make sure your fur baby is in good health, so you should book a visit to your vet. Many medical issues could cause a dog to lose control of their bladder, not all of which are obvious or even noticeable. Dogs are notorious for hiding their discomfort, after all.

A few reasons your dog might not be able to hold it include:

• Urinary tract disorders, including urinary tract infections, prostate diseases, etc.
• Neurological issues, including spinal injury and nerve damage
• Bladder storage issues
• Urine retention due to stress, pain, etc.
• Bladder or vestibular tumors

A more complete list can be found on the website of the Veterinary Centers of America.

Make sure the crate is the right size for your dog’s measurements

If your dog’s crate is too big, he’ll have plenty of room to relieve himself in a corner away from where he sleeps. Living like this, when there’s no consequence to peeing in the crate, he has no reason not to do it. When your pup has to lie in his urine, however, he’s likely to think twice about where he goes.

If you have a crate that your dog is still growing into, you can purchase a crate divider panel to make the space a little smaller.

Keeping your pup on a routine can prevent him from peeing in his crate

Dogs thrive on routine, so taking them out to use the bathroom at the same times every day will be especially easy for them to get used to. It will reduce their anxiety since they’ll know exactly when they’ll get to go outside, and they won’t stress that they’ll have to go too long without relief.

For a schedule to truly help your dog, you need to understand how long he can comfortably control his bladder. This time will vary from dog to dog — breed, age, and health are just a few of the factors that affect this. Dogs should be taken out for a potty break three to five times a day on average, though this number is likely to go up for smaller dogs, puppies, and seniors.

Use positive association to help with your dog’s separation anxiety concerns

Many dogs urinate in the house or their crate because of an unresolved emotional issue. Separation anxiety is common in pups with a history of abuse, though any dog can become anxious when left alone. If your dog urinates in front of you, however, you can likely rule this out.

To ease separation anxiety, help your dog learn to enjoy being in his crate (via ASPCA). You can make his crate more comfortable by tossing in a favorite toy, a fluffy bed, or even a shirt that smells like you. Give your buddy a treat every time you leave the house, so he’ll make a positive association between the treat and your departure. Better yet, fill up a treat-releasing toy for a long-lasting distraction.

Will dogs pee in their crate at night?

Rethink your expectations as you go through the process

Is your dog truly ready to be left alone in his crate for long periods? If you have a particularly young puppy at home, he might need a while longer to grow and keep house training before he is continually successful. To determine how long your puppy can hold his urine (on average), add 1 to the number of months in his age — this is how many hours you should expect him to be in control of his bladder. Of course, this can’t be guaranteed for every pup, but it’s a helpful rule of thumb.

Some dogs need more time to get used to their crate, while others need to be house-trained more thoroughly. Take the time to get to know your pup, and you’ll have a better idea of what to expect in the future. Good things take time!

As frustrating as a mess in the crate can be, it’s not a permanent issue. Once you can find the reasons behind your dog’s incontinence, you can work with him to make some changes and solve the issue. When in doubt, your trusted vet will have many ideas and resources to help you get started. Pee-free crate time will be so much nicer for everyone, so why not begin now?

When you and you dog are out and about, your dog’s collar is an important part of keeping them safe. It holds their tags, which has vital info that can help you reunite if your dog gets lost, is a convenient place to hold onto if the leash breaks, and it lets other people know that your dog isn’t a stray if they get lost.

However, some dog owners take their dog’s collar off while they’re at home. For some, this sounds like the perfect opportunity to give their dog some time to relax. For others, this might sound like a safety hazard. So which is the truth?

Is it better to leave your dog’s collar on or should you take it off and allow them to have a breather? Do dogs like collars, or are they a nuisance? Here’s what you need to know.

 Do dogs like it when you take their collars off?

Every dog is different, which means each one reacts differently to wearing a collar. Experts say their response depends on a variety of factors:

• What happens after you remove the collar? There may be a flurry of excitement when you remove your pup’s collar if something desirable — such as playtime with other dogs — follows immediately after its removal. Likewise, they may resist having his collar removed if something undesirable happens, such as going into his crate before you leave the house.
• How the collar fits. If your dog’s collar is too tight, it may have irritated the skin and be a painful area for you to touch. If it’s too big, it might get caught on objects easily, which can create panic and anxiety.
• Skin and neck sensitivities. If your dog has skin allergies, the collar may be aggravating them. Additionally, if your dog has an injury on their neck — like a cut or muscle strain — they may not appreciate having anyone touch their neck.

When should you remove your dog’s collar?

Accidents happen and pets get lost, which is why it’s advisable to keep your dog’s collar on whenever possible, especially when you’re walking him on a leash, moving households, or traveling. Still, there are times when it’s perfectly acceptable (and safe) to remove your dog’s collar:

• When your dog is in their crate. Even the best-fitting collars can become choking hazards when identification tags catch on the bars of a crate. It’s also possible for your dog to get their leg caught in the collar when they’re scratching their neck, which can result in a fracture or other leg injury.
• At bedtime. Removing your dog’s collar after the day’s last potty break can give the fur and skin beneath their collar a welcome breather. If your dog moves around frequently at night or scratches and shakes their head a lot, removing their collar might make nighttime quieter for the human members of the household. (Keep the collar on if your dog has access to a doggy door.)
• When they’re playing with other dogs. Dogs are rambunctious when they play with each other. Whenever possible, let them enjoy their romp (in an enclosed, supervised area) without their collar, which will help minimize the risk that it will accidentally catch on another dog’s collar or limb. Every play area is different, so be sure to note the rules. Many pet-sitting facilities remove dog collars during group play; some dog parks require that your dog wear their collar and ID tags at all times.

Should your dog wear a collar and a harness at the same time?

A harness isn’t a complete replacement for a collar, so it’s important for your dog to keep their collar on, even if you use a harness to walk them. Harnesses are great for keeping pressure off your dog’s neck if they pull, extra control on walks, and can even keep your dog calmer or warmer. However, they don’t typically have a place to attach your dog’s tags. This means that if your dog gets lost while wearing only their harness, whoever finds your dog won’t know how to contact you!

After the walk is over, though, there’s no reason for your dog to wear both the harness and collar. Harnesses are more restrictive than collars, so your dog may experience more discomfort trying to sleep in them.

Let common sense guide you

Without question, a collar is the most logical place to attach your dog’s identification tags. It’s also the first place someone will look if, heaven forbid, your dog gets lost. And, provided you don’t use a harness when you go for a walk, a collar is the best place to attach a leash.

Besides collaring your dog, experts say, you can keep your dog safe by making sure they get enough exercise and mental stimulation, securing cabinets and other areas in which you keep toxic materials, supervising them when they’re outside, and putting decals on your windows that alert emergency personnel that you have pets.

All things considered, does your dog need to wear their collar at night? Probably not, especially if your dog is secured inside your home with no unsupervised access to the yard through a doggy door; however, every situation is different. The key is to consider your dog’s behavior and your lifestyle to create the safest possible environment for your pet.

In most cases, your cat probably roams around the house at night. They might visit you in bed, hunt for any bugs that have gotten into your home, or try to start a game of tag with your dog or other cat. But sometimes it’s necessary to restrict your cat’s movement.

Crating a cat at night can help with injury recovery, can aid in litter box training, and might even be necessary to help keep your cat safe. If you’re considering crating your cat, you’ll need to be prepared with the right type of crate and introduce it carefully to help your cat learn to accept it. Crating a cat isn’t always easy, but these tips can better your chances of success.

Reasons for crating a cat

There are a number of situations where it can be helpful to crate your cat. Some are temporary, while others may be long-term solutions, such as when your cat disrupts your sleep.

To keep a new kitten safe. If your kitten is constantly exploring the house, they could potentially get into a dangerous situation while you sleep. Crating them can help prevent this and keep them safe while you’re not around to supervise them.

To aid in healing. If your cat is recovering from an injury or surgery, it might be necessary to restrict their movement so they can fully heal.

To help with litter box training. By keeping your cat in a crate with a litter box, they can’t go off and urinate elsewhere. They’ll be more likely to use the litter box than soil their bedding since they’re in such close proximity to it. Crating your cat can help them get used to the initial process of litter box training or be a tool when dealing with inappropriate urination.

To get a good night’s sleep. Some cat owners may crate their cats at night because their kitties otherwise disturb their sleep. By crating your cat, you’ll prevent them from getting into bed with you and waking you up. Keep in mind, though, that some cats don’t like being crated and will make plenty of noise to keep you up until you let them out again.

To encourage a new mother cat to accept her kittens. If you’re using a crate for this purpose, you can leave the cat in the crate for longer periods, but it’s important to use a large crate that offers your cat and the kittens enough space.

Tips for successfully crate training a cat

If you feel that your cat would benefit from spending time in a crate, these tips can help make the transition easier for you both.

Introduce the crate gradually. This can increase the chances that your cat will accept it. Feed your cat treats and meals in the crate while the door is open. As your pet gets used to the crate, start closing the door briefly while they’re inside. After just a minute or two, let them out again. The goal is to teach your cat that the crate is enjoyable without making them fearful.

Make the crate a pleasant place to be. Put your cat’s bed on one side of the crate and their litter box on the other side. You’ll also want to get a non-spill water dish, as cats should have access to water at all times.

How long can a cat stay in a crate? In most cases, it’s best to leave your cat in the crate only overnight. They will be more comfortable moving around and stretching out freely in an unrestricted space during the day.

What to look for in a crate

The crate you choose can contribute to your cat’s comfort and safety. First, look for a crate that’s large enough for your cat’s litter box and food and water dishes while still affording your cat a separate sleeping area. A larger dog kennel is often ideal, giving your cat enough space while still being small enough to fit easily into your home.

An optimal crate will be made of strong metal and will have multiple latches that curious and clever paws can’t operate. Choose a crate that has a spacious door, so it’s easy to get your cat in and out. A crate with a waterproof, removable bottom that you can scrub down and wash is a must.

Should all cats be crated?

While there are plenty of arguments in favor of crating cats at night, not all cats benefit from crating. Just like us, cats have their own distinctive personalities. Some cats may develop emotional problems like depression if they’re crated nightly. Other cats are largely nocturnal and may spend the night attempting to escape. Only you and your vet know what’s best for your cat, and some cats find being crated more upsetting than calming.

Crating a cat at night can be beneficial in some situations. It can be helpful while you’re litter box training a kitten or important for keeping your cat safe. Carefully introducing your cat to the crate can help them feel comfortable in the space, but there’s no guarantee that your cat will accept it.

Some cats will never be happy in a crate and may stress and fuss until you let them out again. While crating can be helpful, it’s not worth it if it causes your cat too much stress. Remember, it’s essential to prioritize your cat’s safety, and you may need to find another solution to the issue you’re facing.

If you’ve ever tossed and turned all night, you know it’s frustrating. Finally, finding the perfect sleeping position feels oh-so-good. Both humans and their furry friends can appreciate the bliss of discovering a comfy spot beneath the blankets, though it might not seem as normal for your pup’s sleeping routine. So, why do dogs sleep under the covers?

The reasons behind this adorable behavior may not surprise you, and they’re just as cute as you’d expect. Be careful while you read, though, or you may convince yourself to share your bed more often. Your dog will certainly get behind the idea of sharing a bed, but you might have to get used to having a lot less space while you sleep.

Why do dogs sleep under the covers? Here’s what experts say

You like to believe that your fur baby gets under the blankets just to get closer to you … and you may be partially right. Because dogs are pack animals, feeling the touch of a family member while sleeping can be the ultimate form of comfort and warmth. Your presence lets them know they’re protected and part of the pack, even if they only snuggle up when they feel anxious. This may feel especially comforting for pups who grew up with their siblings — just think about puppy piles.

Snuggling under the covers has instinctual roots, too. Not long ago, dogs and wolves were born, raised, and sheltered in dens or caves, so it’s easy to see why your pup might feel cozy in a small space of their own.

Canine behaviorist Clarissa Fallis explains that certain breeds might be even more likely to burrow. Small hunting breeds like dachshunds and beagles “tend to mimic their innate behavior of flushing out small animals from tunnels by burrowing.” She goes on to explain, “Larger burrowers, like huskies, live in extreme temperatures that make the instinct to burrow under the snow crucial for staying warm.”

Whether your fur baby is actually cold, anxious, or just used to a routine of denning behavior, burrowing is generally not a cause for concern. Of course, there are a few safety precautions you can take to make it the best experience possible.

Is it dangerous for dogs to sleep under the covers? Should I stop bed-sharing with my pup?

While the act of sleeping under the covers is not inherently dangerous for canines, accidents can happen. A pup may panic if they get too warm and can’t find a way out from beneath the blankets, so make sure not to tuck in your sheets or corner your dog between you and your partner.

Many pet parents worry about their pup suffocating under blankets, but Dr. Malora Roberts of Deepwood Veterinary Clinic assures owners not to stress. Paying attention to a blanket’s material, she notes, is a great way to tell whether a dog may be uncomfortable: if you find it too heavy, your furry friend will too. Suffocating, though, is extremely unlikely. Should your dog become hot or short of breath, you can trust they will react quickly to get themselves out from under the covers.

You might be tempted to find a blanket with large holes to give to your pet, but this may do more harm than good. Not only will your curious puppers be able to claw and chew their blanket, making it much more likely to tear, but small limbs and bodies may get tangled in the fabric, too. Instead, opt for a lightweight blanket if you can, or only let your pup under the top layer of your bedsheets.

Lastly, it’s understandable why you’d feel concerned if you only notice your dog burrowing when they feel anxious. This isn’t a harmful way of coping — in fact, it’s probably very helpful — but showing excessive symptoms of anxiety can be dangerous in its own way. Long-term stress has a variety of consequences, after all, though a vet visit or two can get you well on your way to solving your pup’s troubles.

Should all dogs be allowed to sleep under the covers?

While it might be tempting to let your pooch snuggle up at bedtime, there are a few ground rules you should keep in mind. Small breeds, senior dogs, young puppies, and dogs with arthritis may not be able to physically free themselves from beneath the blanket while you’re asleep. Similarly, brachycephalic breeds, such as bulldogs, are prone to overheating. When in doubt, always make sure your pup has easy access to slip out from beneath the covers while you sleep.

Final thoughts on letting your dog sleep under the covers

Overall, it can be great for your dog to share the bed with you, whether they decide to burrow under the covers. Getting cozy has both physical and emotional benefits for your beloved fur baby — so what are you waiting for? Let the snuggles begin.

If it’s not for you, your pup can sleep in a crate or dog bed instead.

That’s why dog playpens are a great idea for your active puppy and even for older pets. Because they are portable, you can set them up almost anywhere. They come in all shapes and sizes, so it’s easy to choose the playpen that fits your puppy’s unique personality as well as your lifestyle. We did some digging and found the best dog playpens.

Versatile indoor playpens that are adjustable and stylish

Sometimes you want to confine your puppy to a small space, and other times it’s nice to give him room to move around. In both cases, convertible playpens that you can use as a pen and a room divider are extremely convenient. This style grows with your puppy, so you can expand his space as he becomes more responsible with the rules of the house.

There’s absolutely no reason why a dog playpen can’t control traffic stylishly, and Richell’s six-panel pet gate does that beautifully. It converts from a pen to a freestanding gate to a room divider with a lockable gate door, and the hardwood finish lends a classic look to nearly all home decor.

Durable outdoor playpens

Let’s face it. Some dogs are just more rambunctious than others. Regardless of their size, there are pups that simply have a penchant for getting into trouble. If you can relate, you’ll definitely want to opt for a playpen that will withstand your persistent pup’s attempts to escape. Look for one built to hold up against chewing, digging, or climbing, like this 16-panel playpen by FXW.

We like this playpen because you can configure the rustproof panels in various shapes and sizes and they are easy to clean. It assembles in 5 minutes and the entire unit is easy to fold down because of the rod-connected design. It’s a great size for the backyard or to take along when you go camping, and you can set up it inside as well. The gravity-actioned locking door is a safety feature that keeps your pup from unlocking it on his own.

Soft-sided playpens for on-the-go-families

If you’re truly a family on the move who likes to take their pets with them, consider investing in a lightweight, soft-sided playpen. Because these playpens are made of lightweight materials, it’s easy to move them from room to room. And since most are water resistant, they’re easy to clean if your pup has an accident or tips over his water bowl.

This option by the Esk Collection features a zippered top and bottom, which offers more security than hook-and-loop-tape closures. The breathable mesh material provides good ventilation and the side compartments are handy for storing toys and leashes.

Note: This style is best for puppies and small to medium-sized dogs that don’t dig, chew, or climb.

Are playpens good for dogs?

Playpens, also known as exercise pens, differ from dog crates. While a dog crate gives your pet a secure place to sleep at night or stay while you aren’t home, a playpen gives your puppy room to play, eat, and drink. Although they aren’t a substitute for a good crate, playpens provide a structured environment for your puppy to burn off some energy:

• Indoors, when you have other things to do around the house. They also work well when you need to separate your dog from houseguests, but still want him to have a play space.
• Outdoors, when you don’t want to put him on a leash but want him to stay close by, like when you are camping or working in the yard.
• On vacation, when you want to take your puppy with you, but need a safe place for him to get some rest and recreation.

There’s no question, puppies bring a lot of joy into our lives. In addition to reducing stress and anxiety and keeping us healthier, playing with a puppy raises our activity level. Ironically, play is a puppy’s work. The things he learns about his environment while romping in it help him grow into a confident, happy dog. Translation: Playing with a puppy is mutually beneficial!

However, there’s also no question that keeping track of a puppy is a lot of work. A dog playpen is one of the many inexpensive pieces of equipment you can invest in for peace of mind, as your puppy safely explores small areas of the world around him. The best dog playpens are the ones that fit your lifestyle and home. Options include soft-sided products, ones that can adjust to a space, and playpens durable enough to withstand the outdoors.

What is crate training? What purpose does it serve for a dog and their family?

When you crate train a dog, you teach him to associate his crate with safety and security. The hope is that the crate becomes the place to go when your pup feels overwhelmed or sleepy. A lot of owners who crate-train want their dog to sleep there at night, while others do so to reinforce potty training — or just for safety reasons. Sometimes you may need to take your dog with you in the car, and a crate will keep him confined and comfortable, which benefits you both.

Whatever the reason you’re considering crate training, it’s important to look at the whole picture before jumping into a big change like this. Crate training requires dedication and patience from you as well, so make sure you’re committed to the practice — and the upkeep — of this new behavior.

Crate training pros and cons: Size, training, and more

Before deciding if crate training is the right choice for your fur baby, you’ll want to know what exactly you’re getting into. Many owners love the control and calm that crate training encourages, while others prefer a different approach– it’s up to you! Here, we’ll go over crate training 101: The pros, the cons, and the alternatives.

Pros to crate training your dog

Once your dog feels safe in his crate and begins to consider it his den, he’ll have a safe space to go whenever he isn’t feeling his best–or when he needs a rest. You can also send him to his crate when he might get in the way — if you’re making dinner or when the plumber comes over, for example. Or, if your dog isn’t the most social, he may choose his crate over guests or loud noises.

Crate training can even help you house-train your pup. Dogs’ natural instinct is not to relieve themselves in their own space, which is why you won’t often see a dog soiling their crate when it’s the right size. According to Preventative Vet, a crate should be just large enough for him to stand up and turn around in but not big enough where he may feel he has room to defecate in one corner and sleep in the other.

By keeping your pup inside the house and in his crate while you’re out and about, you’ll limit any opportunities he has to be destructive. Puppies especially need an outlet for wild behavior, so crate-training them young will help keep the damage to a minimum while helping them learn patience and bladder control.

As the crate becomes an integral piece of your dog’s comfort, it will help him stay included while keeping him calm and safe. If you need to travel, for example, your furry friend can come, too! Keeping him crated will help ensure he doesn’t get hurt in the car, and he’ll probably feel even more secure in his crate than you do in your seat belt.

Cons to crate training your dog

If the crate is too small for your dog, it can have disastrous effects on both his physical and mental health. Not having enough room to stand and stretch can lead to limb stress and sores, among other things. Regardless of crate size, being confined in a close space for too long can create more negative behaviors rather than discourage them. You wouldn’t like being kept in a cage all day, would you?

There also are a lot of precautions to take when crating your dog. The structure must be put together properly, or else your pup could get hurt should it collapse. You should also be careful with collars or leashes near the bars of metal crates, as tags can get stuck, trapping and frightening your dog. And crate training may not be a good idea for pups with special and medical needs.

Alternatives to crate training your dog: fences, playpens, and day care

If crate training isn’t the right option for your home, no worries! There are other ways to keep rambunctious dogs controlled and safe, though preference varies, of course, from dog to dog.

Setting up baby gates to fence off parts of your house or yard can be an easy alternative, especially if you already have baby gates lying around. It’s not the same as a den, but a comfy bed and the run of a whole room can be just as comforting. A smaller but similar option is a playpen, though this might be tricky for larger dogs. If you don’t have a fenced-off yard for your pup to play in, doggy day cares are a fun, albeit pricey, alternative as well.

Crate training is an awesome way to encourage housebreaking and comfort while limiting the options your pet has to get into trouble around the house. It can give you some freedom (and peace of mind!) to leave your pup unsupervised for a while, knowing he’s safe and sound in his cozy crate.