How Do You Choose A Dog Crate?

How important is a dog crate, and how do you choose one? Cages and crates are used indoors to teach your puppy housetraining, give him his own space, and help with behavioral issues. Outdoors they're used to transport your dog. Crates are generally plastic, and that makes them more portable, while cages are made from wire, and can either fold or be stationary.

You want to choose the correct size crate for your dog. As the old saying goes, it should be not too big, not too small, but just right. After all, the crate is going to be your dog's quiet, private haven when he's sleeping and resting. The correct size dog crate should allow your dog to lie down, and turn around. When he's sitting or standing, he should have about three to four inches of extra head room.

Measure Carefully

Before you buy a dog crate, you'll want to measure your dog to get the right fit. Measure your dog from floor to his shoulder and add about three inches for extra headroom to get the crate's height dimension. Then measure your dog from head to his tail base and add three inches to arrive at the width dimension. These dimensions equal the minimum size for your dog's crate. If your dog is fully grown, consider a larger crate size if you're not sure of the fit.

For growing puppies, consider a divider panel, so that you can adjust the area to your puppy's growing size. Some crates already come equipped with a divider panel. This is great for housetraining, because too much room would be a temptation for him to soil the furthest area. Dividers can also be purchased to add to your crate if needed, or you can make your own partition using a piece of wood.

Looking For Dog Crates

Well, I went to two local pet stores today to check out the latest variety of dog crates and carriers, and did my best to take photos (cell phones are great for this).

Plastic Dog Crates

The most numerous crates I found were the standard plastic crates (also called kennels). They're mostly used for air travel, and are great for trips to the vet, groomers, etc. This is especially handy for smaller dogs in the small-mid sized crates because they have handles. All crates have wire front doors, and vents for good air circulation. The larger, heavier crates (without the handles) require wheels or a crate dolly to move the dog. These crates are very durable and can be used in the home for crate training, outdoors, or for air and ground travel. Some owners prefer plastic kennels because they offer more security with door locks and walled privacy.

dog crates, puppy training

This is a plastic kennel from my personal collection. It's all ready for puppy, with a blanket, stuffed toy, and chew toy.

Looks pretty inviting, I'd say.

Add the puppy, and you've got a comfortable, quiet retreat.

crates for puppies

Some plastic models such as these, have doors on the front and the top.

They provide easier access to your dog. And from the looks of them, these crates really allow for alot of air ventilation.

As you can see, the tops come off, so that bottom of the crate can be used as a dog bed.

Wire Dog Cages

Wire crates/cages are popular and can be used at home, in the kennel and at dog shows. They're made of wire on all four sides, with a comfortable pad at the bottom. There are two basic types of wire crates: folding and non-folding. Folding crates come with a carrying hand, can be folded into a suitcase shape, stored away. The non-folding crates are stationary, but can be taken apart and stored, and are mostly used in the home, especially for crate training. wire crates for puppies

Many of the wire crates have single or double doors and often come equipped with a removable divider panel to adjust the crate size for a growing puppy. Wire crates obviously provide more ventilation and visibility to your dog, and are easier to clean. Most wire cages have a cam lock-a good way to provide dog-proof security.

Soft Carriers

The soft carriers are designed for carry-on airline travel. Many are approved by major airlines for under-seat travel, so your dog is right there with you! They're also a great way to carry your dog around in your regular activities.
This is one from my personal collection, and is a typical soft-sided carrier, with mesh ventilation panels and three zippered openings. It has a shoulder strap and carry handles, and is a good size for pups and dogs up to about 15 pounds. Looks pretty comfortable doesn't it?

Soft Crates

Some of the newer models I saw included soft-sided crates which are made of canvas with metal frames, and mesh panels. They looked pretty stylish and modern, almost like a tent. These crates are portable, lightweight, washable, well-ventilated and the best part-they fold up for storage. These are used for shows and outdoor activities, like camping and travel. They can be used indoors for crate training. During the warmer weather they can also double as an outdoor doghouse.

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