When Chester was a puppy we used the crate for several hours a day, with a break when I came home for lunch. We used it in a different way than most people do, though. We purchased the largest crate available and then we took the door off of it. We pushed the opening up against the door that the pet door is in and he had a potty available, as well as exercise and a way back in the house to safety, air-conditioning and his bed. It worked out great for him and us (before that he had chewed some carpet by the front door ). We only used it for about 6 months, then my husband was laid off and so he was home with Chester a lot. He gradually starting leaving him free and loose in the house when he went on trips to the store, etc. Well, Chester caught on quick and in about 2 weeks we were done with the crate.