Do you ever feel out of sorts in a new environment? Your pet does too, and it can take time for them to feel at home in a new enclosure. You can do everything possible to make the space comfortable, but they’ll still need some training to get used to their hutch, kennel, or coop. Here are some tips for helping your pet adjust to their enclosure.
If you’re still trying to pick the perfect enclosure for your dog, rabbit, or chicken, you’re in luck. We have a comprehensive guide for choosing the best outdoor enclosures.
Dog kennels
Dog kennels come in various sizes, shapes, and models. If your pet is an inside dog, then you might want to look at an indoor kennel like our Pet Haus. For outdoor dogs, we have The Fort for small, medium and large dogs, The Shack for small, medium and large dogs, and The Villa for medium-sized dogs. Not sure what model will best suit your pet? Learn how to choose the best kennel for your dog.
All our outside dog kennels have a solid timber construction and waterproof roof. The Shack’s roof can even be fully opened on its hinges for easy cleaning, which is handy when training a pup to use its kennel.
How to train your dog to enjoy their kennel
With any animal, the key to getting them into their pet enclosures is to train them to develop a habit that, in the end, will come naturally. When you are training a dog, first, you will want to make sure their kennel is comfy and cosy and leave a treat or two inside the kennel.
You will also want to ensure they have already been outside to do their business so that they are ready to settle down. Sometimes, taking them on a long walk will help them become tired and ready to curl up in a soft spot.
When your dog looks sleepy, lead them to the kennel with a favourite treat, pat the cushion in it, and say their name. They should find the extra treats inside the kennel and may be curious to check out their new space. Talk to your dog and pat them to reassure them. It may take effort and repetition, but they will get the idea and soon enjoy their kennel.
Chicken coops
Chicken coops are important for keeping your hens safe from predators, providing shelter from the weather, and giving your girls somewhere to nest. At Pinnacle, we offer two different models of pet enclosures for chickens – The Castle and The Manor. Both are easy to assemble, with a solid timber construction, waterproof roof, and a raised floor for greater comfort.
How to get your chickens to return to their coop at night
If your chickens are not returning to their coop every night, there could be a few different causes. Perhaps they are young and haven’t developed the habit of doing this, so you can use food to encourage them to go to the coop in the evening. You can also ensure that the coop is comfortable for them, with ample soft furnishings in nesting boxes and plenty of water available.
One reason that a few chickens may stray from their coop is if they are the runts that are being bullied by other hens. Ensuring enough room for every hen in the coop will prevent this territorial behaviour and help avoid disease.
If hens have had a close encounter with a predator in or near the coop, they may not want to return to it. Keeping your chicken coop in areas with more foot traffic close to the house and away from foliage will deter them.
Rabbit enclosures
Much like chicken coops, pet enclosures for rabbits are necessary to keep your pet safe from the elements and predators.
At Pinnacle, we have many pet enclosures suitable for rabbits, including models like The Cabin, The Loft, The Hampton, and The Lodge. Choosing between these models will depend upon how many rabbits you have and how big they are – or will be when they are fully grown.
How to help your rabbit adjust to their enclosure
If you want your rabbit to go into their enclosure, the key is to avoid stressing them out. That means avoiding picking your rabbit up or attempting to chase them into the hutch.
Instead, gently encourage your rabbit to enter the pet enclosure using their favourite food. Provide distractions like food or rabbit toys in their enclosure so they don’t notice you closing the hutch door.
As with chickens, rabbits will need time to develop a habit of being put in their hutch at a certain time of day. You may like to time this with one of their meal times. With patience, your rabbit will soon get into the swing of things and start approaching the pet enclosure when they know it’s time to eat and rest.
Get high-quality pet enclosures from Pinnacle Hardware
If you need a secure and protective pet enclosure for your dog, hen, or rabbit, we have you covered at Pinnacle Hardware. Our pet range has plenty of dog kennels, chicken coops, and pet enclosures for rabbits.
See all our pet products online or visit your local Bunnings Warehouse.
