What Is A Dog Crate?

A dog crate is a cage made of wire or molded plastic. Its purpose is to provide confinement for reasons of security, safety, housebreaking, protection of household goods, travel or illness.

The dog crate serves as a "security blanket". The crate helps to satisfy the "den instinct" inherited from his den-dwelling ancestors and relatives. The pet will feel secure, not frustrated once accustomed to his crate. The crate can help pet owners achieve a better relationship with the pet by preventing unwanted behavior when you aren't available to supervise him.

Purchasing a crate

Various types of dog crates can be purchased at pet stores, department stores, and from pet supply catalogs. Look for a wire crate that includes a removable metal floor pan. Plastic crates can also be used, although some dogs will chew the plastic. For the pet's comfort, look for one with a smooth floor.

Purchase crate large enough for the pet to stretch out on its side and to sit or stand erect. If you have a puppy, it is more economical to buy a wire crate that will accommodate him as an adult, then partition it to the right size. A movable wire or pegboard partition can be made or purchased. Too large a crate can undermine housebreaking because the pet may eliminate at one end of the crate and lie down at the other. For bedding, use an old blanket or buy a washable crate pad. Depending on size and construction, a new crate may cost $40 - 150. This is a bargain compared to the cost of replacing a sofa, woodwork, or carpeting.

Where to put it?

Dogs are social animals. Place the crate in an area where the family spends a lot of time - kitchen. family room, etc. The top of the crate can serve as extra shelf or table space. At night, move the puppy's crate into the bedroom to hear him if he needs to go out.