[rrboxer]

Your puppy is about 17 1/2 or around there which is close to my male boxer's age (he is almost 16 wks). Bishop is still in crate training with crate and he can stay in crate for 1 hour during the day. I'm home alot almost (100% of the time) but I only put Bishop in his crate about 45 - 1 hr (he has nap time schedule) a day just so he can get used to it. The other times he is roaming our living area which I watch him and when I can't watch him while I'm doing laundry or watching a movie I put him in his play pen area. His play pen area is in the long hallway and I have gates up on both sides but he can still see meHIs play area has an extra bed, toys and water bowl as well. I think if she is crated 6/7 hours at night and then 8 hours during the day that is a super long time for a young puppy. If you aren't able to come home regularly during lunch every day then is there a chance to hire a dog walker to come by and give your pup some playtime? Or is there a dog sitter in your area you can drop the pup off and you can pick up Sophie on the way home. If those options aren't doable is there a friend in your area who can help you out? Bishop has a crate by the side of my bed so when he sleeps at night, there is another one in our kitchen which is open style and she can see us in main living area and then he has his play pen which he can see kitchen, living area and us. When ever he is in crate he can still see us and be a part of at least by watching us. If she is away in another room she isn't a part of your family and boxers just are the type that needs to be with their humans. My older female boxer she went to doggie day care when she was a pup especially when we couldn't be home that might be another solution for you. Good Luck I hope you find a solution!