Preparing JRT for time alone in backyard during the day
by Michael Bell
(Melbourne, Australia)
I am new dog owner, having just added Jasper to my family last week. He's a 10 month old JRT cross (mixed with another unknown terrier breed). He is a happy, energetic and friendly pup, desexed, vaccinated and chipped just a day before we got him. He's a rescue dog from The Lost Dogs Home, and I don't know his prior history.
Being 10 months, he's right in that adolescent age - no longer a puppy, but not an adult yet. He has some manners, so his previous owners may have tried training, but he also has a lot to learn.
I'm using a puppy training approach, because I have no idea how much training he's had, or what sort of training. Some things he's picked up fast (probably due to prior training), others he has no idea so it really is like puppy training!
I'd like to introduce him to spending time alone outside in the backyard during the day. I can't stay home forever, so I need him to be happy and comfortable outside soon.
I have started by allowing him unrestricted access to inside and outside. The inside area is the kitchen, where he eats and sleeps, so he is very comfortable there. He has been going out to explore and pee, and returning to his familiar inside space. How do I progress from this, to closing the door and leaving him out there? I'd appreciate tips and suggestions please.