Puppy Playpen  

Puppy play pens are a very worthwhile investment with any new addition to the family. They can make potty training much less stressful on you and your new best friend. Starting with puppy pads and moving up to working out a routine that will stay with him throughout his life, it is important to work with what is a natural routine for puppies. When young, they will need to 'go potty' about every 2-4 hours. Having a play pen will help cover the 'accidents' and can be used to set the routine of going out after meals, at bedtime and in the morning. Leading the puppy to the door and to the place you want them to use, with constant praise, will quickly help set the pattern. Over the course of time, the puppy will learn to hold it to not mess his home until someone comes to let him out.

If you want to use the play pen for a comfortable bedding place as well, it is important to take some time and let the puppy make it his own, at their own pace. The puppy should come to naturally want to have a safe, quiet and secure place and seek out his new home. When first introducing the pup to the pen, put some treats and toys in with him. If you have chosen one with a door, don't close it on them just yet, let them come and go at will. Slowly work with his staying put by first using your hand to have him stay in, moving up to using the door to block his way. Slowly increase the time you make him stay, always remembering to lavish praise. It should then be possible to close the door and move away at increasing time frames until puppy becomes comfortable and considers this "his" home.

For some fun, and something a little different for a play pen, you might consider the designs that look like typical baby cribs. The thing to consider in some models may make it more practical for use with a little larger animal because of the width between the side slats. QuasiKennel makes two models out of wood, both without top coverings so the animal can be petted, and yet not able to jump out. These will require some assembly. They come in Honey-maple or Expresso tints and include easily removed double-layered pads. They also are relatively expensive at around $450 but the design and quality may be well worth it to you.

Richell offers a similarly designed pen that would make a nice alternative to buying a wire framed model. Instead, it is made of polyethylene and comes with a gate that swings in or out, and can be latched with one hand for easier handling of your pet. This would be appropriate for smaller animals, but again, take into consideration the space between the side pieces. The top is open and the view as well so your puppy will be well aware of what's going on around him and also available for pets, treats and praise. The materials used for making the pen will hold up well to puppy's desire to chew and claw, yet it is always a good idea to account for the teething phase by offering appropriate chew toys. These pens are found for around $100.

A puppy play pen can be obtained in any number of materials, sizes and colors. Whether it is to be used only when puppy may have to be left unattended, or used as her 'home' and sleeping area may influence your final decision. Keep in mind puppy's growth rate, chewing needs, digging tenancies and whether you will want to use it outside as well for protection of the little one. Folding it up for travel and storage may be important to you to consider, so find out what will be involved in that exercise. Finding one with accessories that will give extra storage and secure food and water dishes may be a big plus.