Tips to Choose the Right Dog Crate & Top Picks of 2022

What is a Dog Crate?

A dog crate is a plastic or metal structure that serves as a home for your dog. It comes in different kinds and as a responsible dog owner, you must consider getting one for your dog. It is available in both plastic and metal structures and works both as a carrier and dog sanctuary

It should be big enough for your dog to stand and move around. It is a dog’s safe haven when no one is around to supervise him, when he needs security from any dangerous situation or when he is traveling

It is also helpful during the dog’s house training and controlling any destructive behavior. Dog owners can use these crates to instill obedience in their dog

Why Use a Dog Crate for Your Dog?

A dog crate is useful for both you and your dog. When used in the correct way, it could be an excellent way to keep your dog safe and have the peace of mind that your dog is fine and safe.

Here are some of the benefits of a dog crate for your dog:

• You can create a safe space for your dog and leave him in the house when you are out or not around
• Your dog will have its very own den or resting place where he could retire when tired or need to have some alone time. Just keep the crate door open and he can go back in whenever he wants.
• He can learn to control his bowels and understand that only outdoors are meant for elimination
• Your dog can easily accompany you to family outings and holidays
• He will be safe from any danger and unlikely situation
• It will help your dog learn self-control and obedience much easily
• You can confine him in case you are having kids around or in a situation that could cause confusion in him

Having a dog crate is an effective way of training your dog and giving him a sense of belonging towards the crate.

Tips to Choose the Right Dog Crate for Coco

Choosing the right dog crate is not something that you can do in a few minutes. It is more than just buying anything for your dog and you will need to consider some important things before buying one.

Here are the 5 essential steps to choose the right crate for your dog:

1. Take the Measurements of Your Dog Properly

Measurements include the weight, height, and length of your dog. A smaller kennel will make your dog uncomfortable and if it is too big then it will make Coco feel unsafe. For an appropriately sized kennel, measure and weigh your dog properly.

Much like a dog collar or martingale dog collar, it is important that you measure your dog properly to avoid any future issues.

To measure Coco, take a measuring tape and the length of your dog while he is standing. Measure him from the nose to the tip of his tail. For the height, measure him when in a sitting position. Add a good 2 to 4 inches into both the measurements to get a comfortable crate.

“What are the Different Dog Crate Sizes?”

2. Get a Bit Larger Kennel for Your Small Dog

Each manufacturer has different size specifications, which means that you can adjust the size measurements accordingly. Some of the small dog crates are no larger than 24 inches long and may fit small dog breeds perfectly.

For a growing puppy, going too small is not a good idea. If you are buying it for your puppy then choose the one that will ‘grow’ with your dog. Crates with divider panels work best for puppies as you can adjust the crate size accordingly and easily.

3. Choose the Right Size Crate for Medium and Large Dogs

Finding a large dog crate for medium and large-sized dogs is important. Since they are big in size, they need ample space to move around easily. A medium-sized crate is 36 inches long and can contain a dog ranging from 40 to 70 pounds. This includes Bulldogs, Eskimo dogs, and Cocker Spaniels.

An Xl dog crate is about 42 inches long and can keep a 70 to 90 pounds dog easily. These are Border Collies, retrievers, and fully grown Dalmatians.

4. Get a Metal Crate for Bigger Dog Breeds

Plastic and soft-sided crates may not be a good option for larger dogs as they may damage them. For them, a metal crate is a better option. Metal kennels come in all large, extra-large, and jumbo sizes.

The extra-large size kennel is about 48 inches long and can accommodate dogs that weigh between 90 to 110 pounds. This range includes German Shepherds, bloodhounds, and Alaskan Malamutes.

The jumbo-sized kennel is 54 inches long and works best for large-sized dogs weighing more than 110 pounds. This includes mastiffs, Great Danes, and Saint Bernards.

5. Exercise Pens Dog Kennels

These kinds of crates work best if you are looking to give your dog an open yet confined space to play. Ex-pens, short for exercise pens, are open from the top and could be adjusted as per your house or backyard’s space. They are also great to keep your dog limited to a certain area in the house.

Additionally, you can also combine your dog crate with an ex-pen to give your dog a more diverse playtime.

Along with these crates and dog carriers, you can also get a crate cover to cover the crate and keep it safe and clean.

What are the Different Kinds of Dog Crate Furniture Types?

Do you know that there are 4 different kinds of dog crates? Like other doggie things, crates also come in different types and you can choose any of them for your furry friend.

Here are some of the different kinds of dog crates or kennels:

• Wire Crates
• Soft-Sided Dog Crates
• Wooden Dog Crates
• Plastic Dog Crates

All of these crates and kennels are excellent for your dog, however, you will have to consider some things like the size and temperament of your dog when making a choice. Make sure that it suits your dog as well as your needs. For ease of use, make sure that it is easy to clean and easy to keep.

Best Dog Crate Picks in 2022

“Which type of dog crate is best?”

A dog crate that suits your dog’s size and temperament is the best for them. If you are looking for the best and top dog crate and carrier choices in 2022 then your search ends here. Below, we have added some of the best dog crates that are excellent for your dog.

• MidWest Life Stages Folding Metal Dog Crate
• Internet’s Best Decorative Dog Kennel With Pet Bed
• Merry Products 2-in-1 Configurable Crate & Gate
• Petmate Vari Kennel
• MidWest Ultima Pro Double Door Folding Dog Crate
• Crown Pet Crate Table
• XX-Large Heavy-Duty Double Door Dog Crate
• Petnation Indoor and Outdoor Home
• 3-Door Folding Soft-Sided Dog Crate
• Frisco Two Door Top Load Plastic Kennel
• DuraCrate Folding Dog Crate
• Browder Dog Double Door Folding Cage Pet Crate by Tucker Murphy
• Deluxe Pet Crate by Pet Gear
• Portable Foldable Pet Crate by ZAMPA
• Life Stages Fold & Carry Double Door Pet Crate by Midwest Homes for Pets

Please contact these brands’ outlets if you want to order any of them. Also, check if they offer free shipping on orders as that would save you some cost.

Dog crates are great to train your dog from an early age. For the purpose of training, you can use a dog whistle. This helps them in coping with their emotions like separation and anxiety in a better manner. Besides the crate itself, you can amalgamate it with an ex-pen to create a better play and exercise experience for your dog.