April 21, 2011
I leave my 2 year old Lab/Pit cross in a crate while I am at work. How long is too long to leave a dog crated?
Full Question:
I have a quick question. I have a almost 2 year old Lab/Pit mix and I crate her while in work since she has what I am assuming separation anxiety since she chewed my furniture each time I tried to leave her out of the crate and I left the house. I emailed before questioning that problem but she is fine when I am home, does not destroy anything, so I don't know how she can break from it if it is done when I leave the home. Besides that, I want to know how long is too long to leave her crated. I don't like to leave her in the crate more than 5 hours, but wanted to know your advice. 
Ed's Answer:
This is an owner problem not a dog problem. Your 5 hour limit is foolish. Dogs can easily stay in a dog crate overnight – 8 to 10 hours.
If I had your dog it would live in the crate 24-7 until it stopped being stupid. The only time out of the crate would be when I took it outside – all my interaction would be outside the house.
If the dog breaks out of the crate you need a better quality crate.
If I had your dog it would live in the crate 24-7 until it stopped being stupid. The only time out of the crate would be when I took it outside – all my interaction would be outside the house.
If the dog breaks out of the crate you need a better quality crate.
81% (17 out of 21)
respondents found this answer helpful
Can't find what you're looking for?
81% (17 out of 21)
respondents found this answer helpful
