Types of Dog Crates

Dog crates are available in a range of different types and sizes, and selecting the right one for your needs is important. If your dog crate is too large, your dog will have enough room to sleep at one end of the crate the soil the other, which works against the hard work you’ve put into house training! If your dog crate is too small, your dog won’t have room to turn around or change position and will get agitated and unsettled, which will create a negative association with the dog crate.

Plastic Dog Crates

Plastic dog crates are durable and lightweight, making them ideal for travel, and can usually be dismantled for storage. Plastic dog crates also provide insulation from cold weather which makes them an ideal choice for smaller or short-haired breeds in cooler climates. Since plastic crates have fewer openings, many dogs are more settled in these crates as there is less for them to look at and get distracted. Plastic dog crates are also very easy to maintain and clean, and are available for airline travel. FAA approved dog crates are usually made from plastic and are readily available.

Wire Dog Crates

Wire dog crates are durable and can be collapsed or folded for storage. Wire dog crates provide plenty of ventilation and are available in a range of different sizes and finishes and are suitable for dogs of all breeds and sizes. Wire dog crates can be fitted with dividers so you can change the size of the dog crate as your dog grows. Most wire dog crates also feature slide-out trays to make cleaning and maintenance easier. Wire dog crates are ideal for road travel due to their weight allowing them to remain stable during travel. Because of the open nature of wire dog crates, they are also ideal for dog shows. Floor mats, padding and covers can also be added to increase comfort in wire dog crates.

Aluminum Dog Crates

Aluminum dog crates are very strong and resistance to corrosion (rust) and can often be disassembled for storage. Aluminum dog crates are often used in dog shows as ventilation and visibility is fairly good, although not as good as wire dog crates. Aluminum dog crates are available with either anodized or powder-coated finishes, meaning there is a large range of colors to choose from.

Soft Dog Crates

Soft dog crates are made from fabric, foam and sometimes a lightweight metal frame, and are the lightest option available. Soft dog crates are ideal for travel and often have many features so you can securely attaching the dog crate to your car, using a seat belt or even a child restraint anchor point. Soft dog crates are available in a variety of colors, shapes and designs. Soft dog crates are probably not suitable for a puppy or for the early stages of crate training, as they are susceptible to damage from chewing and digging through the fabric.

Wood Dog Crates

Wood dog crates are great for indoor use, as they can be built and styled to suit your decor and provide a comfortable, warm and secure home for your dog. Wood dog crates are fitted with a removable tray to allow for easy cleaning and maintenance and can even become just another piece of furniture – such as a table or nightstand. Wood dog crates are available in a variety of different woods, shapes and finishes and can be customized to suit the decor in your home. Wood dog crates can be constructed from either hardwood or a combination of wood and wire. Due to their construction and weight, and the fact they can’t be easily disassembled, they are probably not suitable for travel.