i got lexie's crate from petsmart, and "supposedly" dogs arent gonna want to go restroom where they sleep. But lexie did for a lil while but she hasnt in a few days.. so i hope shes done with that. But your pup should be fine in there while your gone.. just take him/her out right before you put her in. Lexie hasnt had any problems in the day in her cage.. just at night