Where you keep a puppy during the day depends on their age, your living space, and whether or not you’re home to supervise. The main goal is to provide a safe and comfortable environment where they are protected from accidents, destructive behavior, and can engage in healthy activity.

Here are some options for safely keeping a puppy during the day…

Crate

• Why It’s Good
  • A crate offers a safe, confined space for your puppy when you can’t directly supervise them.
  • It prevents destructive behavior by limiting access to the rest of the house, while also promoting potty training by encouraging them to hold it until let outside.
  • It gives your puppy their own personal, secure space, which helps in building comfort and confidence.
• How to Use It
  • Only leave your puppy in the crate for short periods (a few hours at a time), as young puppies have small bladders and may need frequent potty breaks.
  • Avoid using the crate as punishment. Instead, make it a positive experience with cozy bedding and toys.
  • Ensure they get regular exercise and potty breaks outside the crate to prevent stress and discomfort.

Playpen or Puppy Pen

• Why It’s Good
  • A playpen offers a larger space than a crate for puppies to move around, stretch out, play with toys, or take a nap.
  • It can be set up in a puppy-proofed area of your home (like a living room or kitchen) so they have some freedom while still being contained.
  • Playpens work well if you want to restrict your puppy to one area but allow them more space for play, particularly if you need to leave them for longer periods.
• How to Use It
  • Set up a puppy-safe area, including food, water, a bed, and toys.
  • Make sure the area is safe and free from hazards (e.g., sharp objects or cords) that your puppy might chew on.
  • Add puppy pads if your puppy isn’t yet fully housetrained or will be in the pen for a longer duration.

Puppy-Proofed Room

• Why It’s Good
  • A room (like a kitchen or laundry room) with baby gates or an open door can work if your puppy has been housetrained or you need to keep them in a larger space during the day.
  • It offers more freedom than a crate or playpen but still limits access to the rest of the house.
  • This is suitable for puppies that are more independent and capable of safely exploring in a small contained space.
• How to Use It
  • Puppy-proof the room by removing or securing hazardous items like electrical cords, toxic plants, shoes, or valuables they might chew on.
  • Ensure the room has sufficient light, ventilation, and a comfortable bed or blanket.

With a Trusted Family Member, Pet Sitter, or Dog Walker

• Why It’s Good
  • If you can’t be home during the day, you can arrange for a family member, friend, or professional dog walker to come and interact with your puppy for some playtime, potty breaks, and socialization.
  • Hiring a dog sitter ensures your puppy isn’t left alone for too long and gets the attention and exercise they need.
• How to Use It
  • Arrange set times during the day for check-ins, walks, or playtime.
  • Make sure the person looking after your puppy is responsible, experienced, and knows your puppy’s schedule and routines.

Puppy Daycare

• Why It’s Good
  • Puppy daycare is a great option if your puppy enjoys socializing with other dogs and you’re away for long periods. It provides companionship, stimulation, and physical exercise.
  • Some daycares also include supervised play, training, and naps to give your puppy a balanced environment.
• How to Use It
  • Research and select a daycare with experienced staff, safety measures, and an appropriate environment for puppies.
  • Ensure the daycare matches your puppy’s personality and your training goals (for example, if you prefer socializing or need crate training).

Outdoors (Fenced Backyard, Only if Appropriate)

• Why It’s Good
  • If your puppy has access to a securely fenced yard, it can be a good place for them to explore during supervised playtime.
  • Fresh air and outdoor time allow your puppy to burn off energy and engage with different stimuli, which is great for mental stimulation.
• How to Use It
  • Always supervise your puppy outdoors to ensure they don’t wander or get into trouble (such as eating harmful plants or digging out of the yard).
  • Make sure the environment is safe, with no sharp objects or hazards they could ingest.
  • Never leave an unsupervised puppy outside alone in extreme weather conditions.

Things to Keep in Mind When Keeping Your Puppy During the Day

• Regular Potty Breaks 
  • Puppies can’t hold it for long, so ensure they are taken outside or to puppy pads regularly.
• Socialization and Stimulation
  • Provide toys, mental stimulation, and interaction. This is vital for proper development.
• Exercise
  • Make sure your puppy gets enough physical exercise, especially if they are kept in a contained space for periods of time.
• Separation Anxiety
  • If your puppy whines or cries when left alone, this may be separation anxiety. Gradually increasing the time you leave them alone and offering comfort in their safe space can help alleviate this.

Where you keep a puppy during the day depends on their age, behavior, and your lifestyle. A crate is ideal for safety and housetraining, while a playpen or puppy-proofed room can provide more freedom. If you’re away during the day, puppy daycare or hiring a sitter might be the best solution for ensuring socialization and activity. Always prioritize supervision, safety, and your puppy’s emotional and physical needs.