toy poodle, 10 1/2 lbs

Question
Our male poodle is 12 years old and is house broken but we have moved in to a new house and I would like to start crating him when we leave.  I think I bought a crate that is too big and I put a pad in the bottom to make him comfortable.  He went to the bathroom in the crate. I think he is rebelling.
What size crate do I need for an adult dog?  
How much space does he need?
Should I put padding in the bottom tray?

Answer
Dear Marilyn,
Thanks for writing. I can help. The size of the crate depends on how long he'll be in the crate. If you can let him out to eliminate, then the crate should be just large enough for him to turn around and lay down with feet extended.

If you will leave him longer than 8 hours, you'll need a larger crate so he can use the bathroom in the crate but not on his bed.

He should have washable bedding.

There are many other tips for crate training. Please visit my website to get more information. Thanks.

Alan J Turner

http://howsbentley.com