Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Crates
Choosing and using a dog crate raises dozens of questions for first-time dog owners and experienced handlers alike. The pet containment industry has changed dramatically over the past decade, with new materials, safety testing protocols, and design innovations creating more options than ever before. At the same time, veterinary research has refined our understanding of how long dogs can safely stay crated and which training methods produce the best outcomes.
These answers draw from veterinary behaviorist recommendations, manufacturer specifications, and safety testing data. We've compiled the most common questions we receive about crate selection, training timelines, and daily use guidelines. For detailed product comparisons and training techniques, visit our main guide. For information about our research sources and editorial standards, check our about section.
What size dog crate should I buy?
Choose a crate that allows your dog to stand up without hunching their shoulders, turn around in a complete circle without bumping the walls, and lie down fully stretched out on their side. Measure your dog from nose to tail base and add 2-4 inches for length. For height, measure from floor to the top of their head when standing and add 2-3 inches. If you're buying for a puppy, get an adult-sized crate with an adjustable divider panel—this costs $60-$90 versus buying multiple crates as they grow. Breeds like Golden Retrievers need 42-inch crates as adults but can start in a 24-inch partitioned section at 8 weeks old. Oversized crates undermine house training because dogs will eliminate in one corner and sleep in another.
Are dog crates safe for dogs?
Yes, properly selected and used crates are safe and provide dogs with a secure den-like space that reduces anxiety. However, safety depends on several factors: the crate must be appropriately sized, well-ventilated with at least 16% open surface area, and free from sharp edges or toxic coatings. Never use a crate as punishment or leave a dog crated beyond their physical limits—puppies under 4 months can only hold elimination for 2-3 hours. For vehicle travel, standard crates offer minimal protection in accidents. The Center for Pet Safety found that only crash-tested models from manufacturers like Gunner and Impact prevented injury at collision speeds above 20 mph. Inspect crates monthly for rust, broken welds, or damaged latches that could trap or injure your dog.
How long can a dog stay in a crate?
Adult dogs over 12 months can typically stay crated for 4-6 hours during daytime and up to 8 hours overnight once fully house-trained. Puppies have much shorter limits: the general formula is one hour per month of age, so a 3-month-old puppy needs bathroom breaks every 3 hours maximum. Senior dogs over 7 years may need more frequent breaks due to decreased bladder control. Veterinary behaviorists warn against crating more than 8-10 hours in any 24-hour period—dogs crated longer show elevated cortisol levels indicating chronic stress. Working owners should arrange midday dog walkers or doggy daycare rather than crating for 10+ hour stretches. Overnight crating doesn't count against these limits as severely since dogs naturally sleep 12-14 hours daily and don't need bathroom access while sleeping.
What type of dog crate is best?
Wire crates work best for most situations because they provide maximum ventilation, visibility, and flexibility. They fold flat for storage, typically cost $30-$120 depending on size, and allow dogs to observe their environment which reduces anxiety for social breeds. Plastic airline-approved crates suit dogs who prefer enclosed den-like spaces and are mandatory for air travel—they cost $40-$200 and provide better temperature insulation. Furniture-style crates like TV stand models blend with home decor and work well for permanent placement in living areas, though they cost $200-$500 and can't be moved easily. Soft-sided crates are only appropriate for trained dogs who won't chew or scratch, as they're not escape-proof. For aggressive chewers or escape artists, heavy-duty aluminum crates from brands like Impact cost $400-$800 but are virtually indestructible.
Can you crate train an older dog?
Absolutely—adult and senior dogs can learn to accept crates at any age, though the process takes more patience than puppy training. Most dogs adopted at ages 2-7 adapt to crates within 3-6 weeks using gradual positive reinforcement. Start by placing treats and meals inside the crate with the door removed or tied open, allowing the dog to enter and exit freely for 5-7 days. Next, close the door for 30 seconds while the dog eats, gradually extending to 5 minutes over another week. The key is never forcing the dog inside or rushing the process—each dog progresses at their own pace. Research from UC Davis veterinary behaviorists shows 78% success rates when owners follow structured desensitization protocols with twice-daily 15-minute training sessions. Dogs with previous negative crate experiences may need 8-12 weeks and sometimes benefit from anxiety-reducing supplements or pheromone sprays recommended by veterinarians.
How do I stop my dog from crying in the crate?
Distinguish between protest crying and distress crying first—protest whining typically stops within 10-15 minutes as the dog settles, while genuine distress involves frantic behavior, excessive drooling, or elimination. For protest crying, ignore it completely; any attention (even scolding) rewards the behavior. Only open the crate during quiet moments, never while crying. Make the crate more appealing by feeding all meals inside, providing special toys that only appear in the crate, and covering it with a blanket to create a den atmosphere. Exercise your dog for 20-30 minutes before crating to reduce excess energy. For persistent crying beyond two weeks, the crate may be too large (allowing the dog to pace), too small (causing discomfort), or associated with negative experiences. Try moving the crate to your bedroom at night—many dogs settle immediately when they can smell and hear their owners nearby. If crying continues beyond three weeks despite these adjustments, consult a veterinary behaviorist to rule out separation anxiety or other behavioral issues.
Do I need a divider panel for my dog crate?
Yes, divider panels are essential if you're crate training a puppy, saving you from buying three or four progressively larger crates as they grow. A divider lets you purchase the adult-sized crate immediately (saving $150-$200 over 12 months) while adjusting the interior space every 3-4 weeks. Puppies need just enough room to stand, turn, and lie down—excess space encourages them to eliminate in one corner and sleep in another, completely undermining house training. Most wire crates include dividers, but verify before purchasing. For adult dogs already house-trained, dividers serve no purpose and can be removed for extra space. Some owners of anxious dogs report that smaller divided spaces help their pets feel more secure, though research doesn't strongly support this. The divider should be sturdy metal rather than wire mesh, as puppies can chew through mesh panels. Position it to allow approximately 4-6 inches of growth room beyond your puppy's current size.
Should I put bedding in my dog's crate?
For adult house-trained dogs, yes—a crate pad or blanket provides cushioning and makes the space more inviting. Memory foam pads designed for crates cost $25-$60 and help prevent pressure sores on elbows and hips, particularly important for large breeds prone to joint issues. Choose machine-washable covers and avoid beds with stuffing that dogs can tear out and ingest. However, puppies under 6 months who aren't fully house-trained should have bare crate floors with just the plastic tray. Bedding gives puppies absorbent material that makes them more likely to urinate in the crate, and many puppies shred bedding out of boredom or teething discomfort, creating choking hazards. Wait until your puppy has gone 3-4 weeks without accidents before introducing bedding. Some trainers recommend starting with a single towel that can be easily removed and washed if accidents occur. For dogs with anxiety who find comfort in your scent, place an old t-shirt you've worn in the crate—this often has a calming effect without the bulk of a full bed.
Where should I place my dog's crate in my home?
Position the crate in a quiet area with moderate household activity—not isolated in a basement or garage, but not in the middle of a busy kitchen either. The ideal spot lets your dog observe family activities without being in the main traffic flow. Many owners find success placing crates in living rooms or home offices where they spend significant time. For nighttime, especially during initial training, move the crate to your bedroom or just outside your bedroom door. Dogs are pack animals who find comfort in proximity to their family, and bedroom placement significantly reduces nighttime crying. Avoid placing crates near heating vents, air conditioners, or windows with direct sunlight, as temperature extremes cause discomfort. The floor should be level and stable—uneven surfaces make the crate rock, creating anxiety. If you have multiple dogs, separate their crates by at least 3-4 feet to prevent barrier frustration and territorial behavior. Some dogs do better with covered crates in slightly darker corners, while others prefer open views—observe your dog's preferences and adjust accordingly.
| Training Stage | Puppy (8-16 weeks) | Adult Dog (1+ years) | Key Milestone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Introduction Phase | 3-5 days | 5-7 days | Dog enters voluntarily for treats |
| Door Closing | 5-7 days | 7-10 days | Calm with door closed for 5 minutes |
| Short Absences | 7-10 days | 10-14 days | Relaxed alone for 15-30 minutes |
| Extended Periods | 14-21 days | 21-35 days | Comfortable for 2-4 hours |
| Fully Trained | 4-6 weeks | 6-10 weeks | No anxiety, uses crate voluntarily |
Additional Resources
- American Veterinary Medical Association — The American Veterinary Medical Association provides guidelines on humane crate use and training methods.
- Humane Society — The Humane Society offers detailed protocols for introducing dogs to crates without causing stress or fear.
- history of dog crates — The history of dog crates in American households traces back to the 1980s when positive reinforcement training gained popularity.