Some dogs would do better in a crate, some in a pen, some free roam. It really depends on the dog.
As a pet sitter, I see lots of different set ups. One family has two small dogs who despise the cold -- when they leave for work, the pups have the whole kitchen (gated in) and an open crate with the option to lay in it, plus a pee pad at one end of the kitchen.
One family has two young puppies and they have their "mud room" through the garage as the puppies room, with a doggie door to go in the garage if they have to.
Some dogs are crated, some have one dog loose and one crated, etc.
So basically I think whatever works for you. Personally I am not a fan of leaving dogs in crates for 8+ hours. But I understand for some dogs it's a necessity or safety hazard. My grandmas 100lb goldendoodle wouldn't be contained in an ex-pen and destroys the house, so a crate is absolutely a necessity. Even my moms cockapoo puppy Lola who was 5lbs when we got her escaped the ex-pen all the time. We have found it easier to just have her and Jackson loose in the back room. Jackson is trustworthy wherever. I feel more comfortable knowing he is free to move whereever- I know he often goes from the window to my bedroom, etc. |