Puppies should not be kept in a crate for excessive amounts of time each day. While a crate can serve as a safe and comfortable space for a puppy, it’s important to find a balance that supports their physical, emotional, and developmental needs.

Here’s a general guideline for how long a puppy should be in a crate, broken down by age…

Age Guidelines for Crating

• 8 to 10 Weeks Old – A puppy at this age can usually hold their bladder for about 2 hours before needing to go out for a bathroom break. Crating them for longer periods is not advisable, as it can lead to accidents, discomfort, and increased anxiety.
  • Ideal Crate Time – 1 to 2 hours during the day.
• 11 to 14 Weeks Old- At this stage, they may be able to hold their bladder for about 3 hours. They will still need frequent potty breaks, mental stimulation, and social interaction.
  • Ideal Crate Time – 2 to 3 hours at a time.
• 5 to 6 Months Old- As they get older, puppies can usually hold their bladder for around 4 to 5 hours.
  • Ideal Crate Time– 3 to 4 hours at a time.
• 6 Months and Older- By now, they should be able to hold their bladder for 6 or more hours.
  • Ideal Crate Time – 4 to 5 hours during the day.

Total Crating Time Per Day

While crating a puppy for overnight sleep (typically 6–8 hours) is generally okay, excessive crating during the day can lead to behavioral issues and emotional stress.

• Ideal Total Crate Time- 4 to 6 hours total within a 24-hour period is usually the upper limit for most puppies, broken up into shorter sessions.
• Make Time for Play & Exercise- It’s essential to balance crate time with play, potty breaks, training, and mental stimulation.

Providing Breaks

During the hours that your puppy is crated, make sure to provide regular breaks…

• Morning- A walk or playtime and a bathroom break when they first wake up.
• Midday- Have a dog walker, friend, or neighbor take your puppy for a walk and potty break if you’re away.
• Evening- Ensure they get plenty of exercise and quality time with you after work before heading into the crate for bedtime.

Avoid Long Periods Without Interaction

Puppies need a lot of social interaction, playtime, and training to become well-adjusted adults. Leaving them crated for too long, with little stimulation, can cause anxiety, frustration, and poor behavior. It’s especially crucial in the first few months when they are learning vital social and developmental skills.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Gradual Crate Training- If your puppy is not yet accustomed to the crate, gradually build up the amount of time they spend in it to help them get used to it.
• Provide Comfort- Ensure the crate is cozy and contains toys, a comfortable bed, and perhaps something that smells like you to reduce anxiety.

Summary

• Crating time for puppies should not exceed 2 to 3 hours during the day for younger puppies, and up to 4 to 6 hours total for older puppies.
• Avoid long periods of crating without breaks for exercise, play, and bathroom needs.
• Ensure that you provide quality time outside of the crate, focusing on their well-being, socialization, and stimulation.