Just so everyone knows -
I took all of the comments I received about crates to heart. We no longer keep our lab in his crate when we are gone, and we have hired someone to check in on him and walk him during lunch time. So far the only damage has been some dog hair on the couch -- apparently the "no couch" rule doesn't apply when no one's home! If this is the worst thing he does when we're not home -- we consider ourselves very lucky. He still sleeps in his crate at night, but with the door open. I guess he likes it in there.
Although I got quite indignant during that post, I realized that we must be doing something wrong if so many people got so angry. But I have to add that we were only going on the advice of our trainer -- I guess we chose the wrong trainer.

Well done you :) - hope all continues OK, seems as if he's quite happy.

M.

Oh i'm really happy you posted that I can stop worrying now.
Its takes guts to say wht you did,keep up the information on him.
If its any comfort My Ned chewed the leather suite when we got him there was a small patch that was damaged and he finished it off but we bought a new suite and he hasnt touched it at all he has lots of chewables of his own and I buy the big sacks of pig ears (ugghh I know I Know) he loves them and taste better thann the couch :)

At least you had the courage to listen to what people told you , take it on board and act on it :)

Well done you

Melody :)

I second that Melody,

Good luck with him. Don't expect too much to begin with and you may be pleasantly suprised.

BFN

Pam

Good for you! :) I'm really pleased he hasn't let you down! You must all be so much happier and more relaxed. Brilliant! And thank you so much for telling us all - that takes real guts! :D

Hello Crazy Dog,

Full credit to you for taking on board what had been said...at the end of the day you sound like your in the same position of me - new puppy, first time for everything etc and so a little vulnerable and eager to take advice from people you should be able to trust i.e your trainer.
I now think the best way is to ask on champdogs as the practical experience is always the best advice not necessarily the theory.
I have learnt sooo much from people here and am always open to new advice...I am so grateful to have found this site and everyone is so friendly.. in fact I am a bit addicted to logging on... (ooops sorry work!!)

Keep us updated!
Louise x

here here Louise
Josh_

I'm glad you found some advice that you felt you could act upon
I have had lots of good advice and I agree it is quite addictive too
:)
:)
Lel

Glad to hear you've got a happy dog:)

Wendy

Way to go Crazydog!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :D :D Shirl

Well done, that's great.

Glad to hear that things are working out well. Thanks for letting us know.

You trusted your intuition in the end (sp) you felt deep down that it was wrong ( you posted with an incling you should let him out) and you then took on board all the comments.
Many people would have dug their heels in after hearing negative posts , but you listened and acted.Good for you , you reallt did prove you have the dogs best interests at heart x
Zoe x x

Glad you're happy with the new situation. If I remember correctly I was the only one that didn't have a problem with crating all day (even though not ideal), after all, not many seem to have a problem with crating all night for just as long a time.

But I'm glad you've taken all the comments on board and made up your own mind, as if you feel better about it, so will your dog :)