How To Choose Your Dog's Crate | The Smart Dog Guide

A crate can function as your dog’s very own private space for sleeping and relaxing or as a safe spot to escape when feeling afraid or stressed. Depending on the type you choose it can also be used to transport your pet, as a tool for housetraining, and to keep your dog safely confined when you’re out. Here is what you need to consider when looking for a dog crate that your pet will find both comfortable and inviting.

Size

The first thing to think about is always size. Crates should be big enough that your dog can turn around and stand up in. When buying a crate for a puppy or dog which is still growing, you don’t have to waste money by purchasing multiple crates as they get bigger. Simply choose one which will be able to fit your dog when fully grown but that also comes with divider panels so you can adjust the size of the crate with the growth of your dog.

You could also make your own dividers from cardboard or plywood if your pet likes to chew on things. In general, dog crates run from extra small which are usually around 24 inches in length and ideal for small dog breeds like Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers all the way up to extra large crates about 54 inches long that can accommodate really big and heavy dogs like Saint Bernards and Great Danes.

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Material

Crate materials like wire and plastic are very common and popular because they are affordable, lightweight, and easy to clean. Wire crates have good ventilation which is very important especially for dogs with long hair or that get hot very easily. However depending on where you keep it, and the climate in which you live, during colder months, wire crates may need some extra insulation to keep dogs warm.

A blanket draped over the crate is usually all it takes. Plastic crates generally have less ventilation than wire ones but offer more privacy which is something many dogs love. There are a few other excellent materials that are worth thinking about as well. For large or aggressive dog breeds aluminum can be the best choice. Aluminum is strong but still light enough that it can be moved if needed.

Soft-sided nylon dog crates are lightweight and an excellent option for dogs that travel frequently with their owners. Some are very durable, however; they are generally not available for extra-large dogs. Crates made from wood can be an attractive way to go if you are looking for something which can give your dog its own space and add to the look of yours as well.

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Features

Handy features like a sliding tray make it easier for owners to clean the inside of the crate with as little effort as possible. Of course, as mentioned above divider panels will allow you to change the size of your dog’s space as it grows. A large number of crates are also collapsible or foldable so that storage and transport are convenient.

Double doors are a feature many consumers like too as having an extra door on the side may be a good idea if you have limited space to open the front of the crate. And of course, don’t forget to choose one with a strong and reliable latch to keep your pet from getting out.

Dogs are naturally den-living animals so by creating a comfy and secure space for your pet to sleep and retreat to, you’ll be ensuring it’s healthy and happy. Keeping the size, material, and features that work well for you and your pooch in mind will help make choosing one much simpler. Extras like crate pads, dog beds, and toys can also go a long way to make the crate you do pick that much more cozy and fun.

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How To Choose Your Dog’s Crate

Size

Material

Features

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