A dog crate is beneficial for both you and your pet. Dogs are pack animals by nature, and still maintain their natural desire to live in a den. A crate will not only provide your dog his own space, but is also a useful tool for housetraining. With the right information, purchasing a dog crate can be an easy process.
Steps
Start your crate buying process by measuring your dog for the right fit. 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 your dog from the floor to his shoulder and add about three inches. This will give you the minimum height of the crate.
Measure your dog from his head to his tail base and add about three inches. This will give you the minimum width of the crate.
Consider a larger crate if your dog is fully grown, and the fit is questionable.
Use a crate divider if buying a crate for a puppy. Dividers adjust the crate's width to accommodate the pup's growth.
Make your own divider partition using a piece of wood, if you need a crate divider.
Order a crate divider online. Many pet websites sell them.
Shop for the dog crate. Go to a store if you can, and inspect and compare different models. You'll find them at pet stores, hardware stores, online, through pet magazines, some department or specialty stores. They are usually made of wire or heavy plastic.
Tips
Crates with built-in handles are great for carrying small-mid size dogs to the vets, groomers, and travel in the car.
Plastic crates also known as kennels, can be a comfortable retreat when you dog needs a time out, or a safe place from a busy household.
Crates are great for reducing separation anxiety in your puppy. They won't get into mischief or become destructive if you're out of the house for a while.
Crates allow you to better secure your dog while traveling by car.
Many airlines allow soft-sided carriers under airline seats, so you can have your dog with you in the cabin.
Wire crates, (cages) for larger dogs, are available in a folding version. They can be stored in a closet when not in use.
Crates also come in soft-sided canvas styles, and metal frames. They're great for camping, traveling, and outdoor use.
Warnings
The proper size crate is important for house training purposes. A dog's natural instinct is not to soil his sleeping or eating area. Too large a crate may encourage him to soil in the furthest area. Be sure to use a divider if you're purchasing a crate for a puppy.
