Must Know Tips Before Buying a Dog Crate

There are plenty of good reasons to dog crate train your pooch. While it is vital to avoid any unwanted breakages at home, it also serves an important purpose in their lives. How? Dogs do not usually want their beds to be soiled. Therefore, if the crate is designed as a resting place, your dog will have to get out of it to do his business.

In addition, a dog crate is also considered a very useful tool during vacations and travels. Not only will it secure your pets, it will also give you the assurance that they stay safe throughout the journey.

Now that you know all these benefits, you might already be thinking about purchasing a quality dog cage for your canine buddy. Well, it’s up to you. But before you proceed, here are some things you need to keep in mind.

1. Consider the size of the crate.

The ideal crate size is something that allows your pet to stretch his paws, sit up straight, and stand without having to compromise the entire space. However, this does not mean you should get him something really big.

If you are on a tight budget and you want to save up from the future costs of getting a bigger dog cage for your little canine pal, then you can also modify it. You can purchase a large crate and then block off some parts so as it perfectly fits your puppy’s size.

2. Select an appropriate crate type.

Dog crates are sold in varying sizes, types, and prices. Considering the many options that you have, it is just right to assess first the benefits you get from each type.

Below are some of the most common dog crate types:

Kennel Type

The kennel type is a crate that is made of hard plastic. It is usually has a wire door. This is the perfect choice for those households who are planning to go on a vacation via air.

Wire Mesh Type

Constructed with hard wire, the wire mesh type crate allows dogs to have a view of the outside world. Although it is least expensive, it does not really provide the best experience as these do not give the dogs a “cage” feel.

Crates with Hard Bottoms

The dog crate with hard bottom type is readily available in pet stores. This can turned into something very comfortable by using a washable cloth as a bedding or lining.

Puppy Pen Type

The puppy pen type is noted for having wire walls. But it has no cover or floor, which makes it an excellent option for puppies. When you opt for this type, make sure you put this away from older dogs. They might drag it to places or worse, flip it over.

3. Identify the best location for the crate.

Before you even proceed with crate training, you need to consider the location. You cannot just put it in a certain place for no reason at all. If possible, have it placed somewhere consistent, where your family spends most of the time.

4. Make the crate more fun and interesting.

Imagine your self locked in the four corners of a dark and dull room. Boring, right? The same goes to your dogs. So if you want your pooch to be happy, do not forget to bring in his favorite toy. This way, he will think that the dog crate isn’t a bad place at all.

But then again, you should also make sure there is nothing in there that can pose a potential threat for him. Keep those things that he can chew and swallow. You don’t want him to die of choking.

5. Consider using covers for wire mesh crates.

The safety and comfort of your dog are the most important things you need to consider when purchasing dog cages. To ensure these two are not compromised, it is just right to cover the side and the top of a wire mesh crate with a cloth. With the added darkness, your dogs will feel more comfortable and safer.

But then again, you have to keep in mind that there are certain pieces of fabric that can be easily pulled and chewed by a bored dog. Hence, you have to secure it properly to keep it out of your pet’s reach.

6. Put treats inside the dog crate.

Treats are usually involved during crate training. Normally, dog trainers place them in a location where beautiful things happen, and in the case of your dog, inside the crate. Nevertheless, it is not required to leave treats or even water in the crate, unless your dogs need to cool down for summer.

When used right, a dog crate can be a great tool for training your pets. Do not get too excited and just place your puppy in the enclosure. This will only scare him. Simply guide him and let him sniff it. In the long run, he will realize that there is nothing to be afraid of.

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