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Should I crate my puppy even if I'm home all day? For how long?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Male | neutered | 23 days old

I’m going to crate train my puppy. My question is, should I crate him even when I have time to watch him, to get him used to it? I’m free all day since I’m homeschooled so for the most part, I’ll be able to watch him all day. So even though I can watch him, should I put him in his crate for a little while to show him that it’s fun? And if I should do this, for how long?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 7th, 2018

Hello and thank you for your post! I would say that it is an excellent idea to use the crate even when you are home several times a day. This way he does not associate the crate with you leaving whenever it is being used and will hopefully prevent any separation anxiety from developing. I would Place him in the crate multiple times throughout the day and also when you leave the house briefly Place him in the crate. I would also make sure that the crate is a fun place for him and relaxing. I would ensure that you place plenty of toys inside the crates and lots of treats to associate with the crate so that the crate is not a stressful place for him to be. Persistence and patience in the end will make crate training successful. I hope this helps guide you in the right direction. Please feel free to contact me if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further.

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