Also: IMHO it's a good idea to give your dog a "sanctuary": someplace they can go where they know they won't be disturbed, and someplace they can retreat to if they know they did something wrong. My parents typically use a decent-sized dog travelling crate, depending on the size of the dog. Once you establish one, it's important to not disturb them while they're in it outside of dire circumstances.That's interesting, never thought of it from that angle. Although in a two room cabin, (well okay, also tiny bathroom and tiny kitchen <28sq.ft. floor area, that she's naturally stayed out of while we fix meals - great omen that one was.) not that much room for a sanctuary around here. Then again (interestingly) I must admit, she has carved out a little space behind the front door and also under the bed in a small area not occupied by boxes, when she wants to be alone. Also under the front porch is a good sanctuary and our pal Mishka can't fit down there. Thanks for bringing it up, worth pondering for sure. When I acquire a new dog, the first thing I do is to assign it a spot in the house. It is their time out spot and where they go when they do not want to be disturbed--their 'safety' area. My grandkids are not allowed to disturb them there, and they all have different areas, so they don't disturb each other. It doesn't take long to teach them, and it solves a lot of problems, and gives them a sense of security. Well she lost the spot behind the front door, (to closed door, winter boots and whatnot) she has gotten grudgingly used to the new place we put her pad. but under the bed she loves and now we've made more room for her. And then off course, there's disappearing into wild yonder. She is getting me back to taking more walks, my most inspired writing about her and our developing understanding (er… relationship) happens on those walks, but I never write it down and by the time I actually have time for that, it's faded and waiting for the next inspiring moment, while other things crowd my thoughts.