If she is house-trained she won't go in her crate. Dogs instinctively know not to potty in their "sleeping area." I leave mine that long...or sometimes longer when I'm at work a couple days a week. They're always glad to see me, but fine. They don't...and have never...potty in their crates. They go directly outside and do it. I would honestly let her get a lot of exercise that day...take her for a few walks, tire her out, and then make sure she potties (does BOTH) before you leave. Then crate her and she will sleep for the whole time. Mine all sleep through the night (8 hours) without waking up. Dogs are den animals...they don't mind being crated if it's done the right way. If you give her run of the house, think about all the things she could get into that might hurt her! How would you feel if you came home and she had eaten something she found and was sick, or she jumped off the couch and broke something???? I would never feel comfortable leaving mine free roam when I was gone!!! There are too many dangers!! At least if she's crated, you'll know she's safe and warm!! |