Help with crate issue

[mitches]

Hi folks, our cocker, Bailey, is 2 years old now and we still put her in her crate when we leave her on her own during the day, for 2-3 hours max. She is happy to go in it, especially as she gets a nice treat, and she's usually asleep when we return.
Anyway I'm wondering as she's older if we should stop using the crate and just let her sleep in the lounge when are out.
This is our first dog, I'd appreciate any advice.
Thanks Elaine

[bizzylizzy]

I'd  think it depends on how reliable Bailey is really and your reasons for still crating her. If she's not likely to get up to mischief in the lounge, then perhaps leave the crate door open and give her the option. Humphrey's box is always available with the door open if he wants it, sometimes he'll use it, sometimes he prefers to sleep on the blanket infront. He's still at the pinching/chewing stage, so we only leave him access to kitchen/hall when we're out but if Bailey's ok and can't come to any harm, then go for it. It all depends on the dog and the circumstances, we never had crates for our previous dogs, they're certainly not a necessity, just made the initial months a little easier. I think you're probably the best judge! 

[Murphys Law]

Millie is nearly 11 months old and we have stopped leaving her in her dog pen when we go out. She is left to wander but every time we have returned she is sat on the back of the chair in the front window looking out for us.

We have never come back to any issues at all.

[daw]

I'd leave it open and see! My rule is dogs should have as much freedom as they can safely be given. 

[tenaille]

yes, agree with this. I put Martha in her basket in the pen if we go out because she is still in the chewing stage so its safer and less worry. When I feel she will be safe loose then I'll let her choose where she wants to go.

[mitches]

Many thanks for all the replies, will leave her in the crate with the door open and see how we get on.