Crate training can be a game-changer for dogs, but done wrong, it risks creating a lifelong fear of confinement. Cesar Millan, the renowned dog behaviorist and co-founder of Halo Collar¹, warns that a rushed approach can backfire, transforming what should be a safe haven into a source of anxiety.
To get it right, Millan recommends starting with brief, low-stress crate sessions to build comfort gradually. The trick? Knowing when to give space and when to step in—especially with breeds that don’t take easily to confinement.
So how do you strike the perfect balance and turn the crate into your dog’s new favorite spot?
The Rule of Thumb: One Hour per Month of Age
A general guideline is that puppies can be crated for a maximum of one hour per month of age, up to about 8 hours. A 3-month-old pup should only be left crated for 3 hours or less. Young puppies simply can’t hold their bladders for very long.
As your dog matures, they can gradually be left crated for longer periods. But adult dogs shouldn’t be crated for more than 8-9 hours. They need opportunities to stretch, play, and relieve themselves throughout the day.
Leaving them cooped up for too long can lead to accidents, anxiety, and destructive behaviors.
Signs It’s Time to Phase Out the Crate
Many owners stop crating their dogs once they are fully housetrained and have outgrown their chewing phase. For most dogs, this typically happens by about 2 years of age. However, every pup is an individual.
Watch for signs that your dog is ready to be left loose in the house:
- They consistently “hold it” all night or while you’re away at work
- Destructive chewing has decreased
- They seem calm and relaxed when left alone
- They choose to go into their crate on their own to rest
If your adult dog still seems anxious or destructive when left out of the crate, it’s best to keep using it while you continue to work on training. Proper exercise and mental stimulation go a long way in preventing boredom-induced behavior problems.
Making the Crate a Positive Place
The key to successful crate training is to make the crate a pleasant, comforting place for your pup. Never use it as punishment. Instead, give your dog treats, chew toys, and meals in the crate so they associate it with good things.
It’s also important to let your dog have some control over when they go into and out of the crate. Prop the door open and let them come and go as they please when you’re home.
Many dogs grow to love their crates and will often choose to nap there even when they don’t have to.
Crating Don’ts
While crates are a useful training tool, misusing them can quickly venture into neglected territory. Avoid these common crating mistakes:
- Crating a puppy all day: Puppies under 6 months shouldn’t be left crated for more than a few hours, as they can’t control their bladders and bowels for that long.
- Crating for punishment: Never force your dog into the crate as a punishment. This will only cause them to have negative associations with the crate.
- Leaving a dog crated too long: Adult dogs shouldn’t be left in the crate for 8-9 hours daily. Doing so can cause anxiety, depression, and behavior problems.
- Not providing exercise first: Make sure your pup has had a chance to play, go to the bathroom, and get plenty of exercise before being left in the crate for any extended period.
A crate can help your dog feel safe, calm, and comfortable when used properly. But it should never be used to simply “store” your dog and forget about them for long periods.
By following the guidelines above and paying attention to your dog’s needs, you can ensure your pup’s crate is their cozy den, not their dreaded doggy jail cell.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.