biting and snarling on getting up in the morning

[Crazy-Cat-Lover]

Dogs absolutely cherish their sleep. Alot of dogs will be grumpy if you wake them from a nice sleep. Great advice everyone!

[ktreva52]

Hmmm, I don't think I'd put a leash on her in the crate for a couple of reasons. 1) She might chew it, which leaves you short a leash, or, 2) She might get tangled up in it and choke herself to death, or hurt herself badly.

I agree it's not good behavior to be a grumpy-gus in the morning. Never had that problem with any of my dogs and I've had small dogs for a long time. But, forcing the behavior only causes resistance and worsens the problem. It needs to become "fun" for her to get up of a morning. A favorite toy, even a treat to get up and loving when she's good.

What you might do, if you can take the time to do it, is open the crate door and go on about your business. If she comes out, greet her happily and praise her. Then, take her out to potty. If she doesn't come out after about 15 minutes, shut the crate door until she "gets up." Then, open the door and praise her like she's the most wonderful dog ever. Yes, that will seem to "cater" to her crankiness, but we want her to start WANTING to come out and be praised.

As long as she's in perfect health, the praise when she responds and "ignoring" when she doesn't is likely the most effective method of getting her to enjoy waking up and being with you.

Chris