Crate-trained dogs have no problem staying in a kennel for hours on end. Most adult crate-trained canines will gladly stay inside a kennel overnight. However, it’s not a good idea to keep younger dogs locked inside a crate overnight simply because they’re not able to hold their bladder for so long. Puppies should be let out at least twice overnight so they can do their business in peace. In general, though, puppies should stay in their crate for three to four hours at a time. Similarly, senior dogs may need to be let out once or twice a night if they struggle with urinary problems.
To keep your dog healthy and happy, it’s crucial not to crate them for too long. All dogs need daily exercise and social interaction, so it’s not a good idea to keep them locked for more than a few hours at a time (excluding the nights, of course).