How To Choose A Dog Crate

Why use a dog crate:

When used correctly, dog crates are the fastest and way to housebreak your dog. Dogs are naturally den animals and naturally want a small, cozy place to rest for shelter and security. Dogs naturally want to keep their den clean and unsoiled. Crating your dog teaches him to "hold it" until he can go in an appropriate place. This helps your puppy develop his bladder control.

For older dogs, crates act as a "bedroom" where they can relax and escape when there is too much activity going on around them. You can crate train a dog of any age. A crate can help break bad habits that improperly trained dogs may have developed over the years.

Do I Need a Plastic or Metal Dog Crate?

Plastic kennels are the best for travel, and are the only types of dog crates allowed by airlines.

Metal wire dog crates are great for home use, however. They tend to be roomier and more open. They're also sturdier, and will last longer than plastic crates.

What size of dog crate?

A dog crate should only be big enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lay down. If your dog's crate is too big, your puppy will have enough room to soil one side and sleep in the other. This defeats the purpose of a dog crate. If you don't want to invest in several crates during your dog's life you can buy a crate that is sized for an adult size dog and get a divider panel. Plus there are crates that "grow with your dog". This way, you can keep the one crate and have it "grow" along with your dog.

Accessories For Your Dog Crate:

Always be sure to include dog toys and treats in your dog's crate. This will keep your puppy occupied and stop your teething puppy from chewing on the crate's metal bars.

It is also important to purchase dog crate bedding to provide your dog with a comfortable surface.

Dog crate covers are great for reducing outside distractions, which helps minimize barking and stress in the crate.

A crate pad will be more comfortable than the crate's plastic pan.

Finally, crate bumpers will help protect your puppy from injuries caused by chewing or from leaning against the crate's metal bars.

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