We just got him yesterday evening from the breeder and he didn't start "acting like a puppy" until this morning (and when I say "morning" I mean 1 AM!). I got up to use the rest room and, of course, he followed me there but I pushed him out of the doorway gently and shut the door to go. I heard him whine a little and snuffle around. He eventually walked off to go lay by the feet of my brother in the game-room.

When I walked back in the game-room he came and greeted me happily but I decided it would probably help his behavior if I ignored him. As I type this he's laying at my feet dozing off... I love him but I don't want this to turn into anything serious like separation anxiety.

He also whines and barks a little when I put him in his crate, like I did this morning so I could shower in peace. My brother who was in the game-room (where the crate currently is for the daytime) had to give him a couple of "No!"'s and a few "Shaker Can" rattles to quiet his whining and tiny barks. Any advice please?

Bump

Well basically he is a baby, he is happy to be around you and misses you when you leave. Dogs are social creatures, and they like to be around other living beings. The crate should never be used as punishment, and it needs to become his safe happy place. When you put him in there, it helps if you have a special treat or toy reserved for when he is only in his crate. You can also try feeding his his dinner in there, and leaving the door open for him. He will associate the crate with good things.

When you are gone for the day, you can leave a radio on low, this provides a bit of comfort for him. Are you teaching him any commands or doing any obedience now? A dog who knows commands is a happy confident dog.

No, he doesn't know any commands or obedience yet. He and I are going to Puppy Kindergarten tomorrow so that will change very soon! I'm to start command training tomorrow after I find a good online source to teach basic commands. Any suggestions?

I did put him in his crate with his favorite pressed raw hide bone and I tossed in a few biscuits. I had to do some chores so I left him in the game-room with a cartoon on. In 5 minuets he was barking,crying, and whining. I decided to ignore him and finish my quick chores. When I was finished I walked into the room and he was barking so I gave him the "No!" correction and opened the door when he was calm. I don't know what to because next week I'll be out of the house for 4 hours (from 8Am-12PM) and no one will be home with him. I want him to like his crate and be calm in it by next week hopefully...