Dog crates and cages are a means of keeping your dog safe when you are not able to supervise their behaviour. Crates and cages will also protect your home from damage. The crate should be spacious enough for your dog to stand up in, and to stretch out on their side whilst lying down. If you are purchasing a crate for a puppy, you may wish to consider one that will be large enough for the dog when fully grown. A large cage can be reduced in size for a puppy through the use of a box or partition. Other factors to consider when buying a crate will be whether you require a fold up version so it can be stored flat, and if you need a metal tray instead of a plastic one should your dog like to chew things.

Advantages of Using a Dog Crate

The main advantage of a dog crate or cage is that it will keep your dog safe when you are not able to supervise them.  The crate will help to prevent chewing, especially of unsafe things such as electrical wiring, or expensive items such as your sofa. Crating your dog will protect your home from soiled carpets, and can be a valuable house training aid as dogs do not like to mess in their own area. Have a look at our tips for crate training your dog.

Dogs will view their crates as their own personal space; a secure den. It will become a place of safety that the dog can retreat to. The crate can also be used to prevent unwanted behaviour. It is useful to have when you are entertaining guests, particularly if your visitors are elderly, young children or those who are afraid of dogs.

A crate or cage will assist your dog in becoming settled in an unfamiliar environment. It can be used for travel and is useful if your dog becomes ill. A dog that is familiar with being confined will cope better with vet stays and future air travel.