How do I get my dog to stop forcing open his cage?

**Freedom** · 09-20-2009, 08:09 PM

Only thing which occurred to me is, does he usually "hold it" until the morning when he is released? Because at age 12, just like senior humans, he may not be able to "hold" it that long any more. And most dogs do NOT want to "go" in the cage.

**herpguy** · 09-21-2009, 12:24 PM

Thanks a lot for all the concerns.
Yes, he does "hold it." He never goes in his cage. I don't know if that could be the reason, but it is worth checking.
Something else that I didn't include that may help is that he S thunder or other loud noises (firecrackers). He used to break out when he heard those, but now he breaks out no matter what, he's been doing this for the last 3 weeks.

**Karen** · 09-21-2009, 07:38 PM

Okay, that makes sense that he may have a urinary tract infection or something that makes him need to go sooner than morning.

**bobsmom** · 09-21-2009, 09:47 PM

That makes sense. Could very well be. BUt you mention that he has 2 acres of free running room. Do you live near woods and is it possible that a wild animal of some sort is trying to take up residence in what is otherwise your dog's "territory"? I know our Bob will go out before going to bed for night (he's an indoor dog) and will just stand on the porch and smell up into the air... and if there is a deer or rabbit or anything anywhere near, he goes crazy barking. We often can't see anything, but if I get a flashlight and shine way up on the hillside I can see some beady eyes.

Just might be someone trying to hone in on his territory.