How Long Can A Dog Stay In A Crate?

• Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.

For some pet parents, dog crates are a great way to make sure your pup is safe and comfortable while you’re away from home. But if you work long hours, you might be wondering how long can your dog can stay crated. Generally, it’s safe to leave an adult dog in a crate for up to six hours. Puppies and senior dogs should ideally never be left for more than three or four hours. In both cases, it’s important to build up to this amount of time gradually.

Leigh Siegfried, a professional dog trainer and founder of Opportunity Barks, suggests that before crating, pet parents need to make sure their dogs are well-fed and watered, exercised mentally and physically, and are in a comfortable, safe environment. Once that’s covered, you can look at how long your dog can tolerate staying in their crate.

Let’s discuss what factors affect how long your dog can stay in a crate and discover crate alternatives.

How Long Is Too Long To Crate?

Ashley Meraki, a professional dog trainer and founder of Meraki Dogs, says there are no legal restrictions on dog crating in the US. However, she adds it’s important for pet parents to keep their pup’s well-being in mind.

How long a dog can stay in a crate realistically also depends on their “age, size, and temperament,” says veterinarian Dr. Athena Gaffud. In some countries, like Finland, crating is illegal, so it’s always worth checking if there are any restrictions in your region. Other factors that determine how long your dog can be left alone include the following:

• Their pee and poop schedule
• Exercise time outside the crate
• Mental stimulation in the crate
• Issues like separation anxiety or previous trauma around abandonment or neglect (more often seen in rescue dogs)

Luckily, installing a pet camera is a good way to gauge how your dog behaves when you’re gone. If you notice any issues like pacing or excessive vocalization, speak to a trainer or behaviorist for tailored advice. Lastly, if you want a companion for your dog throughout the day, hire a pet sitter or dog walker.

How Long Can Puppies Stay In a Crate?

Puppies will need a break based on their potty schedule. Puppies who are six months old can hold up to six hours, while younger puppies, from 10 to 12 weeks old, can hold up to two hours.

“Leaving puppies in a crate unsupervised for extended periods without breaks is not ideal,” Meraki says. They may have an accident if left in their crate for longer than this.

Once your puppy matures into an adult dog, it’s important to slowly increase the amount of time they spend in their crate. Some dogs may transition well from four to six hours but most dogs need to be introduced to longer times at 30 to 60 minute intervals.

How Does a Dog’s Health Affect Crate Time?

Siegfried and Dr. Gaffud explain that dogs with the following health conditions should avoid crates for long periods:

• Arthritis
• Diabetes
• Urinary tract infections or bladder stones
• Breathing issues
• Anxiety
• Claustrophobia

However, crate rest can be useful for dogs recovering from some types of injuries, including musculoskeletal injuries or fractures. Dr. Gaffud says keeping dogs in a confined area ensures they get the proper rest. Staying in a crate also prevents dogs from licking and chewing stitches.

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How to Make a Crate a Cozy Haven for Longer Stays

If your dog’s going to be spending a fair amount of time in their crate, make this space comfortable and inviting. Siegfried shares some surefire ways to create a crate your dog will enjoy, including the following:

• Keep light bedding inside the crate (especially for long-haired dogs)
• Install dog crate fans for fresh, moving air
• Add items with your scent (sweatshirt, dog blanket, etc.)
• Give your dog a long-lasting chew or chew toy
• Provide stimulating puzzle toys to keep your dog boredom-free.
• Inspect the crate regularly for damaged sections

However, never leave any toys your dog could choke on in the crate.

What Are Some Alternatives to Dog Crates?

Since crating isn’t the right option for all dogs, there are plenty of other options out there!

If these options don’t work for you, consider having a drop-in dog walker who can take your dog out for some exericse and streetching.