How to Keep Dogs Out of a Rabbit Pen

Keeping dogs out of a rabbit pen depends on if the pen is an outside hutch or an indoor cage/play pen. Barrier training is an effective method to prevent dogs from going where you don't want them, and along with obedience training, you can train your dogs to safely coexist with rabbits without the dog entering into the rabbit̵7;s space. Most pet supply stores carry barrier training supplies, and many shops offer basic obedience training as well.

  1. Indoor Barriers

    • Place indoor training barriers around indoor cages and play pens. Use prickly mats and sprays as indoor barriers as they are easy to use; however, dogs must be taught their boundaries before they are expected to know them. When using indoor barriers, use the product according to the manufacturer's instructions and continue appropriate training methods until your dog responds to the barrier without thinking.

    Outdoor Barriers

    • Use underground or invisible fencing around outdoor rabbit hutches to prevent dogs from agitating or harming companion rabbits. Alternatively, use training collars if the dogs are companion pets. If not, consider using roll or prebuilt picket fencing to establish a permanent boundary around the rabbit hutch to keep stray dogs away from the hutch as well. Not only does this keep dogs out, but it also provides the rabbits a safe exercise enclosure near their hutch.

    Good Behavior Training

    • Good behavior doesn't come without training. Enroll your dog in a basic obedience course. This prevents and eradicates unwanted behavior such as boundary breaking. Obedience courses also instruct the handler how to correct unwanted behaviors in your particular dog and prevent potential problem behaviors. Consider socializing your dog with people and other animals to curb anxiety and instill good socializing manners.

    Considerations

    • Consistency and frequency in praise and reward are very important at getting your dog to understand the behavior you desire from it. Commit to consistent commands and use them so that your dog behaves the way you want. Do not encourage unwanted behaviors during play and do not physically punish the dog when he disobeys as both of actions ultimately breaks down the training process and makes the training ineffective at controlling your dog.