crate

**peach4** · 01-10-2012, 07:35 AM

I know this question is probably asked all the time, but what size crate is best for my male lab puppy? He's coming this weekend, he'll be 8 weeks. I bought the 42" with a divider but it looks so huge. Should I keep it or go down a size? Thanks so much!

**Samson** · 01-10-2012, 07:58 AM

You should keep the 42" but if you only have a puppy then also buy a divider to reduce the size until the puppy gets older. They need enough space to lie down - that's all ! Any more and you will find them using the crate to go to the toilet.

**peach4** · 01-10-2012, 08:02 AM

Ok thanks! The 42" one I bought has a divider so I guess I'll be all set. Also, for crate training, we have a small cape so if I keep the crate in the kitchen I am sure I'd hear him overnight, but do you think I'm better off moving the crate to our bedroom at night?

**Samson** · 01-10-2012, 08:27 AM

Originally Posted by peach4

Ok thanks! The 42" one I bought has a divider so I guess I'll be all set. Also, for crate training, we have a small cape so if I keep the crate in the kitchen I am sure I'd hear him overnight, but do you think I'm better off moving the crate to our bedroom at night?

I personally would have him by the bed at least for the first few months. He will let you know when he wants to go to the toilet and you can have a few 2am morning walks waiting for the 20 minutes or so before he decides to go. They have teeny tiny bladders as a pup and this could be a couple of times a night if you are unlucky !

If you leave him in the kitchen then you will need to set the alarm to go down to let him out ! They are a lot of work in the first few months but so worth it !

**joflake** · 01-10-2012, 08:39 AM

I would have him in the bedroom with me also. You can hear him better, and he might not feel so alone. You can also throw a blanket or rug over the crate to make more of a den for him. He might be more apt to sleep better.