Dog Crates

Man’s best friend deserves the best in safety and comfort which is why only certain dog crates should be chosen. The crates themselves come in different sizes and are made from different materials. You can find units in metal, plastic and cloth and a combination of these materials.

The rules are simple. If you have a crate you leave mainly at home then the size of that crate will be bigger than a crate you use to transport your dog. The transport-only crate must be large enough for your dog and not so large as to enable it to move around and thus be injured in the case of an accident. The crate should always be well secured when the animal is being transported.

Sometimes a dog can be sent long distances by plane. You can’t allow the dog to be moving around in the case of air turbulence. A snug but not a cramped fit is required.

There are different benefits for different crates. The all plastic models have holes for ventilation in their top half but are solid below. They are easy to carry but not so easy to see the dog at all times and not from a distance. The all-metal crates have excellent vision from all angles and a good airflow. You can also dismantle them and lay them flat if you want to store them or transport to a different location.

The cloth crates are light and the walls can be rolled up if required. The metal frame is lightweight. With the cloth walls in position, visibility of the dog is not as easy as other crates but the ventilation is good. Again this type of crate can be folded and stored when not in use.

And if you want a crate to remain in a fixed position for say holding your dog before grooming, then there are large, even very large models made of metal which are ideal. Some have wheels enabling you to move the crate easily. Be aware that if this type of crate is kept outdoors that the dog is totally protected from any weather extremes. Fresh water of course is essential.

Remember dogs, and particularly puppies are fussy when it comes to their personal hygiene. They like to perform their toilet duties away from where they sleep and play. A crate in this situation may be a good teaching tool for your young dog. Being kept in a confined space encourages them to hold on before being given the opportunity to visit a place away from their sleep/play area when it is time to visit the bathroom.

Dog crates are pretty much a lifetime investment. Because they are securely made and designed to protect your pooch, buying the right model should serve you and your dogs for years to come. If you purchase without your dog, be sure you have your dog’s fully-grown measurements with you before you make your choice of crate.