Dog Crate Buyer’s Guide

Why Use a Dog Crate?

Dog Crates provide a place for your dog to rest and retreat, and when used properly, can be a great aid in housebreaking puppies.

Dogs are still very much like their ancestors the wolves, and, like wolves, they crave a dark, secure place to provide safety and shelter. The crate solves this problem by providing your dog with his own den.

Which Material?

Plastic crates are generally more affordable than other crate types, and provide a good amount of privacy for your dog.

Plastic crates are typically the only kind allowed by airlines, and these must meet a specific list of criteria. Check with individual airlines to learn more about this.

Plastic crates are relatively easy to clean, but are not as well ventilated as wire crates. Because plastic is somewhat absorbent, these crates can become foul smelling if your dog has an accident inside.

Wire crates are great for home use. Wire is durable and very secure, and will not retain odors the way plastic sometimes can.

Wire crates are usually more expensive than plastic, and you will want to provide some kind of cover for the crate to give your dog a feeling of security.

If you opt for wire, make sure the spaces are not too big or small—you don’t want your pup’s paws getting stuck. Make sure the wire is coated to avoid any sharp edges.

Another option is collapsible fabric crates. These are quite affordable and are a great choice for travel and camping.

Fabric crates are not suitable for airline use, but can be a great option for home. Use this type of crate for an older dog who will not attempt to chew through it.

What Size?

A crate should be big enough that your dog can lie down, stand up, and turn around comfortably.

It is a good idea to buy a crate that will fit your dog once he’s grown, rather than purchasing multiple crates along the way.

Many larger wire crates come with a divider so you can block off part of the crate to make it smaller.

If his crate is too big, a puppy might see one end as sleep area and the other end as a potty area, and your efforts at housebreaking will be thwarted.

Then, as your dog grows, you can remove the divider so he will have plenty of room.

Generally speaking, crates that are labeled “extra small” are 12 to 13 inches wide and 18 to 22 inches deep. These crates should comfortably fit your Chihuahua, Yorkie, Pom, or Pug.

Crates described as “small” are no more than 18 inches wide and usually 24 inches deep. These are suitable for Boston and Jack Russell Terriers, Mini Dachshunds, and smaller Poodles.

Medium crates are 19 to 21 inches wide and 30 inches deep. These are suitable for Cocker Spaniels, French Bulldogs, and Mini Schnauzers.

Large crates are up to 24 inches wide and 36 inches long. These can comfortably fit a Bassett Hound, Bulldog, Shar Pei, Corgi, or Medium Schnauzer.

Extra-large crates are 28 inches wide and 48 inches long. These are suitable for most Shepherds, Collies, Boxers, Retrievers, and Standard Poodles.

Double-extra large crates are 30 inches wide and 46 inches long. These are suitable for large hounds, Husky-type breeds, Giant Schnauzers, Great Danes, Mastiffs, and other very large dogs.

How to Set It Up

Place the dog’s crate in an area that is quiet, but not completely removed from the rest of the household.

When a crate is to be used as your dog’s home and bed, it should have a pad or cushion that can be washed, as well as blankets.

Puppies need some toys and things to chew on as well, so they don’t turn their destructive tendencies to the crate or blankets. You can also help your pup feel more secure by giving him something you have worn so he can be reassured by your smell. Some people recommend a ticking clock or a hot water bottle if the puppy is feeling anxious about being away from his mother.

Depending on where you place the dog’s crate, you may want a crate cover. A wire crate out in the open may keep your dog safe, but will not make him feel very secure.

You may also want pads or bumpers for the sides of the crate to keep your dog extra warm and comfortable.

How to Make it Home

Remember that the crate is your dog’s sanctuary and safe place. He should sleep there as well as be placed there after being disciplined. Allow your dog to retreat to his crate if he does not want to interact, and never force him to come out.

At the beginning of crate training and sporadically through the following weeks, place treats, toys, or fun surprises in your dog’s crate so he learns to associate it not only with quiet and safety, but also with fun, positive feelings.

Make sure that any time your dog will not be supervised in his crate, you remove his collar. There is a danger it could become tangled.

For more on crate training methods, see our blog at DogKennelsAndCrates.com