Should my 9-month-old crated dog still need a 4 AM potty break?

Question

At 9 months, should my collie/terrier mix be able to go a full night without waking up at 4-4:30am for a bathroom trip? He's crated. Dinner is fed at 5:30. Last walk is at 10-11. Should I be taking him on longer, later walks and trying to ensure he poops then? His 4am poops are quite large and legit, he doesn't seem to be whining just to go outside, though he starts whining around 5-5:30 to wake up. Pet's info: Dog | Rat Terrier | Male | neutered | 15 lbs

Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA · Accepted Answer

Some dogs have their own schedules and they are pretty stubborn about it! You could try going on a long walk 30 minutes after eating, sometimes that will stimulate the bowels. But otherwise, he probably just needs some more time to adjust. Make sure when you take him out in the middle of the night, that it is "boring" for Walter. Let him out, then take him back to bed. No talking or playing or treats.

Should my 9-month-old crated dog still need a 4 AM potty break?

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