Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Is it healthy to crate my dog for 8 hours while I'm at work?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Can I crate my dog for 8 hours while I am at work?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 9th, 2016

I didn't see an age for your pet posted? If this is a puppy less than 8 months old this is potentially too long to crate them because most puppies can only hold their bladder for a few hours depending on their age. So having accidents in the crate is desensitizing them to sleeping where they urinate and defecate which can lead to problems house training your puppy. However if this is an adult dog over the age of 1 years old and there is a legitimate reason to crate (gets into things still in the house, raids the trash, etc), then crating him for this long is ok; however I would try to work on training your pet to be trusted more when you aren't at home. Crating for long periods of time, all the time, increases chances of obesity due to lack of activity, boredom, and isn't good for pets long term for their psyche and happiness. We typically only recommend crating puppies during their earlier months because it is for their safety and well being to remain out of trouble until they learn how to behave.

Vote icon

14Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Mariya Gugel, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 30th, 2018

    Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Puppies do have a “weaker” bladder than adult dogs, but if provided with a wee-wee pad can do very well in a limited area. Crate training is better for dogs older than 4 months or so who are better able to control their bowel movements. As long as the crater confined area is associated with positive experiences and a dog feels that it is a safe place, there really is no impact on mental health in terms of confinement. I hope this helps and am happy to answer any other questions you have!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Is it normal for a pregnant guinea pig to zoom after cage cleaning?
Is your pregnant guinea pig running in circles after a cage cleaning? A trusted vet explains if this is normal and what to watch for during her 59-72 day gestation.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has worsening sores and scratches. Could it be an infection?
Nike's worsening sores and constant scratching worry his owner. A certified Petco veterinarian offers expert guidance on potential causes like bacterial infections and next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
How to keep a pet mom and her newborn babies warm and calm?
Support your pet mom and newborn babies! A certified vet offers advice on ideal room temperature, minimizing stress, and quiet intervention for food & water.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What can I use to cover my hermit crab tank for low humidity?
Struggling with low hermit crab cage humidity without a lid? A Licensed Vet Tech shares DIY solutions like plastic wrap, moss, and sponges to keep your crab healthy.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored