Tips for Building a Doggy Den
It’s important for dogs to have a den or safe place they associate as positive. This gives them somewhere to retreat when changes are making them uneasy. A calming supplement such as Zylkene can be given to help them cope and stay calm.
Ensure the den is large enough for your dog to comfortably stand up, lie down, stretch out and turn around. A dog crate is ideal for this purpose.
Provide the den in a room your dog usually likes to hide and where they feel comfortable.
Line the crate with used blankets, towels or old clothes to make it smell familiar.
Provide treats and toys in the den to ensure your dog associates it as a positive place. A hollow chew toy stuffed with kibbles will keep them busy for hours.
Allow your dog to access the den freely at all times. This way they have chosen to go there and are not forced.
Cover the den with a blanket where appropriate to muffle the sounds further.
This can be great for cats too, if you’re designing a hiding den for your cat then think 3D – cats feel more comfortable up high; think about where you put their hiding place. Like all resources make sure you have a litter tray for each cat, plus one extra. Even a single cat needs two dedicated litter trays. Refer to our cat resources page.
