How to Choose Dog Crate

When it comes time to choose a dog crate, there are a few things you need to take into account. Size is obviously an important factor, as you want to make sure the crate is big enough for your dog to stand up and turn around in. But you should also think about the type of material the crate is made from, whether it has a roof or not, and how easy it is to clean. With so many different crates on the market, it can be tough to decide which one is right for you and your furry friend. But by keeping these things in mind, you’ll be able to make the perfect choice for your pup.

Table of Contents

  1. What’s Your Dog Like?
    1. Size
    2. Does your dog want to look around?
    3. Will your dog grow?
    4. escaping
  2. Dog Crate Types
    1. Wire Dog Crates
    2. Soft-Sided Dog Crates
    3. Metal Dog Crates
    4. Plastic Dog Crates
    5. Heavy-Duty and Extra-Large Dog Crates
    6. Dog Crate Furniture
    7. Wooden Dog Crates
    8. Fabric Dog Crates
    9. Crates with Multiple Entrances
    10. Ex-pens Crates
    11. Escape-Proof Crates
  3. How to choose right size of crate
  4. What to consider when choosing crate for your dog
    1. Easy Cleaning
    2. Portable
    3. Safety
    4. Sturdy
  5. Dog Crate Accessories
  6. Crate Training is Important

What’s Your Dog Like?

If you’re not sure what type of dog you have, or if you just want to make sure you’re getting the perfect crate for your furry friend, here are some tips on how to choose the right one.If your dog is small or medium-sized, a soft-sided crate might be a good option. They’re lightweight and easy to move around, and most can be folded up for easy storage. However, they may not be as sturdy as other types of crates, so they’re not ideal for dogs who are prone to chewing or scratching.For larger dogs, a metal crate is a better option. They’re more durable and can withstand more abuse, and many come with a roof to keep your dog warm and dry. They’re also easier to clean than soft-sided crates.

Size

When it comes to choosing a dog crate, size is obviously an important factor. You want to make sure the crate is big enough for your dog to stand up and turn around in, as well as lie down comfortably. If your dog is small or medium-sized, a soft-sided crate might be a good option. They’re lightweight and easy to move around, and most can be folded up for easy storage. However, they may not be as sturdy as other types of crates, so they’re not ideal for dogs who are prone to chewing or scratching.

For larger dogs, a metal crate is a better option. They’re more durable and can withstand more abuse, and many come with a roof to keep your dog warm and dry. They’re also easier to clean than soft-sided crates.

Make sure you measure your dog’s height and length before purchasing a crate, to ensure you’re getting one that’s the right size.

Does your dog want to look around?

Many dog owners find that their furry friend enjoys being able to look around and see what’s going on. If this is the case for your pup, you’ll want to get a crate with a wire mesh door, which will allow him to see and smell what’s going on outside. On the other hand, if your dog prefers privacy, a crate with a solid door might be a better option.

Will your dog grow?

If your dog is still growing, you’ll want to get a crate that’s a bit bigger, so he can continue to use it as he grows. Some crates come with a divider that can be adjusted as your dog gets bigger, which is a great option if you’re not sure how big he’s going to get.

escaping

If your dog is prone to escaping, you’ll want to get a crate that’s designed to be escape-proof. Many crates come with a locking door, which will keep your dog safely inside.

Dog Crate Types

When it comes time to choose a dog crate, there are a few things you need to take into account. Size is obviously an important factor, as you want to make sure the crate is big enough for your dog to stand up and turn around in. But you should also think about the type of material the crate is made from, whether it has a roof or not, and how easy it is to clean. With so many different crates on the market, it can be tough to decide which one is right for you and your furry friend. But by keeping these things in mind, you’ll be able to make the perfect choice for your pup.

Dog crates come in all shapes and sizes, and there’s one out there that’s perfect for every dog. Here are a few of the most common types of crates.

Wire Dog Crates

Wire dog crates are one of the most popular types of crates on the market. They’re durable, easy to clean, and allow your dog to see and smell what’s going on outside. Many wire crates come with a locking door, which will keep your dog safely inside. If your dog is prone to escaping, you’ll want to get a wire crate that’s designed to be escape-proof.

Soft-Sided Dog Crates

Soft-sided dog crates are perfect for small or medium-sized dogs who need a lightweight and easy-to-move crate. They’re made from lightweight materials like nylon or fabric, and can be folded up for easy storage. However, they may not be as sturdy as other types of crates, so they’re not ideal for dogs who are prone to chewing or scratching.

Metal Dog Crates

Metal dog crates are the most durable type of crate, and they’re perfect for large dogs who need a sturdy and escape-proof option. They’re made from heavy-duty materials like steel or aluminum, and many come with a roof to keep your dog warm and dry. They’re also easy to clean, which is important if your dog is prone to making messes.

Plastic Dog Crates

Plastic dog crates are a good choice for small or medium-sized dogs who need a lightweight and easy-to-move crate. They’re made from durable materials like polyester or nylon, and many come with a locking door to keep your dog safely inside.

Heavy-Duty and Extra-Large Dog Crates

If your dog is large or extra-large, you’ll want to get a heavy-duty dog crate that’s designed to withstand his size and strength. These crates are made from durable materials like steel or aluminum, and many come with a roof to keep your dog warm and dry. They’re also easy to clean, which is important if your dog is prone to making messes.

Dog Crate Furniture

What about style? If you’re looking for a dog crate that will also serve as furniture in your home, there are a few options to choose from. Dog crate furniture comes in all shapes and sizes, and there’s one out there that’s perfect for every dog. Here are a few of the most common types of dog crate furniture.

Wooden Dog Crates

Wooden dog crates are one of the most popular types of furniture-style crates. They’re made from durable wood materials like oak or ash, and many come with a built-in drawer for storage. They’re also easy to clean, which is important if your dog is prone to making messes.

Fabric Dog Crates

Fabric dog crates are perfect for small or medium-sized dogs who need a lightweight and easy-to-move crate. They’re made from lightweight materials like nylon or fabric, and can be folded up for easy storage. However, they may not be as sturdy as other types of crates, so they’re not ideal for dogs who are prone to chewing or scratching.

Crates with Multiple Entrances

Another thing to consider when choosing a dog crate is the number of entrances. Some crates come with multiple entrances, which can be helpful if you need to get your dog in and out quickly. If your dog likes to escape from his crate, a crate with multiple entrances may be a good option.

Ex-pens Crates

But by keeping these things in mind, you’ll be able to make the perfect choice for your dog. If you’re looking for a heavy-duty crate that’s designed to withstand your dog’s size and strength, metal crates are a good option. They’re made from durable materials like steel or aluminum, and many come with a roof to keep your dog warm and dry. They’re also easy to clean, which is important if your dog is prone to making messes.

Escape-Proof Crates

When it comes time to choose a dog crate, there are a few things you need to take into account. Size is obviously an important factor, as you want to make sure the crate is big enough for your dog to stand up and turn around in. But you should also think about the type of material the crate is made from, whether it has a roof or not, and how easy it is to clean. With so many different crates on the market, it can be tough to decide which one is right for you and your furry friend.

So which type of crate is right for your pup? It depends on his personality and size. Soft-sided crates are ideal for small or medium-sized dogs who like to have a lot of freedom, while metal crates are perfect for larger dogs who need more durability and security. And if your dog is still growing, be sure to get a crate that’s big enough to accommodate him as he grows.

How to choose right size of crate

When it comes time to choose a dog crate, the most important thing to consider is the size of your dog. You want to make sure the crate is big enough for him to stand up and turn around in, and also big enough for him to sleep comfortably. If your dog is still growing, be sure to get a crate that’s big enough to accommodate him as he grows.

Make sure to measure your dog’s height, width and length before buying a crate. You can find one of the right size by finding dimensions that match up with yours dog’s. If you’re unsure which size is best, always choose the larger option so they have more space to move around in.

Dog Crate Sizes

Length of Crate (Tip: Equal to length of adult dog from nose to tail +2-4 in)

Weight

Common Breeds

XS

19″

<20 lbs.

Chihuahua, Maltese, Pomeranian

S

24″

20-30 lbs.

Jack Russell Terrier, Miniature Poodle

M

30″

30-40 lbs.

Cocker Spaniel, French Bulldog, Pit Bull Terrier

L

36″

40-70 lbs.

Beagle, Bulldog, English Setter

XL

42″

70-90 lbs.

Lab, Golden Retriever, Boxer

2XL

48″

90 lbs. +

Great Dane, Rottweiler, Bernese Mountain Dog

What to consider when choosing crate for your dog

When it comes time to choosing a dog crate, there are a few things you need to take into account.

Easy Cleaning

You’ll want to make cleaning the crate as simple as possible because it may get dirty rather quickly, especially while potty training is taking place and accidents are more probable. The easiest to clean crates, according to Dr. Ushi Phillips, are constructed of metal and plastic. Additionally, according to Ryan, cleaning time is reduced by collapsible wire crates with a pull-out tray.

Products like the Dog Crate have an easy-to-clean plastic coating over an aluminum and steel frame. The best part is that the base has a handy pull-out tray that slides out for simple cleaning.

Portable

You may move portable crates with wheels from room to room so that your dog is constantly at your side. They are perfect for traveling with your dog. Dr. Ushi Phillips believes wheels are very beneficial on travel crates if you need to move your box about the house.

The Dog Crate effortlessly collapses and then quickly unfolds. Additionally, it is easy to move about thanks to the wheels and handle that are connected. You can even roll it over carpet.

Safety

While you’re gone, a crate protects not just your furnishings from an inquisitive or destructive dog, but it also shields your dog from potentially hazardous circumstances. Before going somewhere, the dog’s box must be securely fastened, just like a child’s car seat. Remove his before putting your pet in the crate to prevent it from becoming hooked or stuck and trapping or choking your dog.

Sturdy

While the majority of dogs are relatively relaxed when they are in their crates, others can be a little destructive. This is why you need a strong crate that will last a long time. Ryan advises choosing one with well-ventilated wire mesh sides so you can easily watch your dog from any position in the room.

Designed the Dog Crate with the security of your dog in mind. It won’t rust because it is built of durable, non-toxic materials. Additionally, it has rounded edges and a single-piece, strong, diamond-mesh frame to lessen the risk of paw and jaw injuries.

Dog Crate Accessories

You might wish to add a few extras to your chosen crate to make it ideal for your dog, such as:

  • Crate trays
  • Dog crate covers 
  • Crate casters 
  • Crate Beds
  • Toys
  • Water Bowls
  • Crate Blankets

Crate Training is Important

Crate training is frequently connected to puppyhood. However, crate training your dog may be beneficial at any point of its life.

Crate training requires a patient, consistent method supported by positive reinforcement, just like other kinds of dog training. Take the time to learn how crate training works and the best ways to acclimate your dog based on their size and age rather than just buying a crate and hoping for the best.