Crating dogs during the day is a controversial topic among dog owners. While some believe that crating provides a safe space for dogs to relax when left home alone, others argue that it is cruel to confine dogs for long periods of time in a crate. There are pros and cons to consider when deciding whether or not to crate train your dog and use a crate during the day.
Quick Answers
- Crating dogs for reasonable periods during the day can be acceptable if done properly.
- Crates should never be used to punish dogs or confine them for excessively long periods.
- Dogs should be gradually crate trained and given positive associations with the crate.
- Dogs should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably in the crate.
- Dogs should be provided with water, chew toys, and pee breaks every 4-6 hours when crated during the day.
The Pros and Cons of Crating Dogs During the Day
Potential Benefits of Crating Dogs During the Day
- Safety – Crates provide a safe, enclosed space for dogs to stay while owners are away. This prevents chewing, accidents, and injuries.
- Reduced Stress – The crate can be a relaxing den-like space that reduces anxiety in dogs prone to separation distress.
- House Training Aid – Crates help teach dogs to hold their bladder and bowels. Close confinement encourages dogs to “hold it.”
- Travel Convenience – Dogs already accustomed to a crate adjust better to crates for travel or stays at the vet.
Potential Risks of Crating Dogs During the Day
- Distress from Confinement – Being crated too long can frustrate some dogs and lead to whining, barking, pacing, and even injuries from escape attempts.
- Reduced Exercise/Stimulation – Spending excessive time in a crate prevents dogs from moving around and interacting with their environments.
- Housetraining Accidents – Dogs forced to soil their crates can develop anxiety and revert their house training progress.
- Boredom and Frustration – Lack of physical and mental stimulation while crated long-term may cause problem behaviors.
Guidelines for Crating Dogs During the Day
If you decide to crate your dog during the day while at work or running errands, following these guidelines can help make the experience more comfortable and stress-free for your dog.
Crate Train Gradually
Dogs should first be introduced to crates positively. Feed them in the crate and provide treats and toys so they associate it with nice things. Slowly increase crate time from 5-10 minutes to several hours over the course of weeks or months. Never force a fearful dog into a crate.
Provide Comforts and Entertainment
Include treats, chew toys, blankets, and water in the crate to occupy your dog’s time. Frozen Kongs stuffed with peanut butter keep dogs busy and content. Comforting music or TV noise can also help dogs relax.
Allow for Reasonable Crate Times
How long is too long for a dog to be crated during the day? Experts recommend crating adult dogs for a maximum of 4-6 hours at a time, allowing breaks every 4-6 hours for potties and exercise. Puppies under 6 months old have lower bladder capacities and should only be crated for 2-3 hours at most.
Give Potty and Exercise Breaks
Dogs should be let outside to relieve themselves every 4-6 hours when crated during the day. Short walks or playtime also provides exercise and mental stimulation.
Never Use Crates as Punishment
Dogs should enjoy going in their crate. Never use the crate to punish or isolate an upset dog. This destroys the dog’s positive association with the crate.
Provide Proper Crate Size
Crates should allow room for dogs to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably without cramping. But not so large your dog can soil one side and sleep on the other. Appropriate crate size helps dogs feel secure and avoid accidents.
| Dog Weight | Proper Crate Size |
|---|---|
| 0-10 lbs | 24L x 18W x 21H inches |
| 11-25 lbs | 24L x 18W x 21H inches |
| 26-40 lbs | 30L x 19W x 21H inches |
| 41-60 lbs | 36L x 23W x 25H inches |
| 61-90 lbs | 42L x 28W x 31H inches |
| 90+ lbs | 48L x 30W x 33H inches |
Alternatives to Daytime Crating
If your schedule prevents letting your dog out every 4-6 hours or your dog dislikes being confined, you can consider alternatives to crating while away:
- Doggy Daycare – Your dog socializes and plays all day while supervised.
- Dog Walker – Hire someone to walk your dog midday.
- Pet Sitting Visits – Have someone stop by to take your dog out.
- Dog-Proofed Room – Safely confine your dog to a spare room or hallway instead.
- Outdoor Kennel Run – Place an enclosed, shaded kennel outside for potty breaks.
While crating during the day can be appropriate if done correctly, it is not the only option. Know your dog’s limits and preferences when deciding. Some dogs do perfectly fine with loose house access rather than crating when owners are gone.
Conclusion
Crating dogs for reasonable periods during the day can be acceptable if done properly. However, crates should never be overused as all-day confinement. Dogs require both physical exercise and mental stimulation. While crates can be helpful training tools and safe spaces, they should not be a dog’s only daytime environment.
Crates allow dogs relaxation and security when owners cannot supervise them. But dogs should also receive ample opportunity for activity, play, training, and human interaction on a daily basis for good behavior and welfare. Achieving the right balance is key if you choose to crate train your dog and utilize crates during the day when you are home. Consider your individual dog’s age, bladder control, anxiety levels, and activity needs when deciding what duration of crating is appropriate.