How to choose the right dog crate

There’s nothing better than coming home to a wagging tail and a warm dog cuddling up next to you on the sofa. Dogs provide us with companionship, love, and loyalty – something that everyone needs in their lives. As any pet lover knows, dog parenting requires good planning.

One of the most important aspects of taking care of your furry friend is making sure they have a safe place to sleep/rest at any time of day. That’s where choosing the right dog crate comes in. A good dog crate will provide your pooch with a comfortable place to rest while also keeping them safe and secure.

At TrustedHousesitters, we're committed to helping pet parents find the best possible care for their beloved canine friends. That's why we've put together this guide on how to choose the right dog crate for your furry friend.

Why crate training is important

Crate training is a vital part of dog parenting, as it teaches them good house manners. Crate training can also be useful in times of stress or during periods of separation, such as when you're away on vacation. When done correctly, crate training provides your dog with a den-like space that they can call their own. This can help to reduce anxiety and provide them with a sense of security.

Additionally, crate training can be used as a tool to help potty train your pet. Dogs are naturally clean animals and will avoid soiling their resting area. By putting them in a crate, you can reduce the chances of accidents around the house.

How to measure your dog for the correct crate size

Getting the right dog crate size is essential in many ways. A crate that is too small will be uncomfortable for your pet and could lead to problems, such as anxiety or potty accidents. A crate that is too large, on the other hand, will not provide your dog with the sense of security they need. So, how big should a dog crate be? To get the correct crate size for dogs, you'll need to know their height, length, and width. You can then use this information to find a crate that is the right size for them.

The best way to measure your dog's height is to have them in a sitting position and measure from the ground to their highest point. To determine their length, have them lie down on their side and measure from the base of the tail to the tip of the nose. You don't need to measure the width of your dog for most crates, but if you're just curious, you can measure from the widest point of their shoulders. Having these measurements will help you to find a proper dog crate size.

How to choose the best crate size for your dog

Now that you are certain how big a dog crate should be, it's time to choose the right size. For most dogs, a medium or large crate will be best. However, there are some dogs that will do better in a small crate. Use the measurements you took to find the right size crate for your pet.

If your dog is a puppy, then you may be asking "What size crate should I get for my puppy?" The simple answer is that you may need to get a crate that will accommodate their growth. You can purchase one that will "grow" with your dog, or simply adjust the divider panel in a regular-size crate as they get bigger. The best crate size for a puppy, however, will also depend on their breed. Some breeds, such as Greyhounds and most Mastiffs, grow quickly and will need a large crate sooner than others.

Material selection

When it comes to choosing the right dog crate, material selection is important, too. The most common materials used for crates are wood, plastic, and metal. Each of these has its own benefits and drawbacks. Plastic crates are typically lighter weight and easier to transport than metal crates. On the other hand, metal crates are often more expensive than plastic crates, but they're also more durable.

Dog crate 101: things to consider

If you're still asking yourself "What size crate for my dog is best?" Here are a few more things to think about when choosing the right crate for your canine companion.

Your dog's personality

Some dogs feel more secure in smaller, enclosed spaces, while others may prefer a larger, more open crate. If your dog is on the shy or timid side, then a smaller crate may be best. If they're more outgoing and confident, then a larger crate may be better suited for them.

What you’ll be using the crate for

Are you looking for a crate to use primarily for travel or will it be used as a regular part of your dog's routine? If you'll be using it mainly for travel, then you may want to choose a smaller, more lightweight crate that's easy to move around (check here for some of the best travel crates currently on the market). If you plan on using it primarily at home, then a larger, more durable crate may be a better choice.

Your preferred design

There are a few different designs to choose from. The most common are traditional crates, wire crates, and soft-sided crates. Traditional crates are typically made out of wood or plastic and have a solid roof and walls. Wire crates are made out of, you guessed it, wire, and usually have a removable tray on the bottom. Soft-sided crates are made out of fabric and typically have mesh walls.

Your dog's activity level

If your dog is high-energy and likes to move around a lot, then you may want to choose a larger crate with more space for Fido to stand up and turn around a few times. If your dog is more low-key and enjoys lounging around, then a smaller crate may be all they need.

What type of dog crate should I choose?

Collapsible crates

If you're looking for a crate that's easy to move around and store, then a collapsible crate may be the best choice. Collapsible crates are typically made from metal and can be folded down when not in use. They're perfect for travel or for homes with limited space.

Soft-sided crates

Soft-sided crates are a good choice for dogs who are anxious or fearful of crates. They're typically made from fabric and have more of a "den-like" feel, which can help your dog feel more comfortable and secure. They're also lightweight and easy to move around, making them a good choice for travel.

Plastic crates

These crates are typically made from durable, high-impact plastic. They're also lightweight and easy to move around, making them an excellent option for travel. They're easy to clean, too, making them a good choice for homes with multiple dogs.

Metal crates

Metal dog crates are typically more expensive than plastic crates, but they're also more durable. These crates can be made from either steel or aluminum. Steel is the stronger of the two metals, but it's also heavier, making it more difficult to move around. Aluminum is lighter weight, making it a better choice for some dogs. It's also less likely to rust than steel.

Wooden crates

Wooden dog crates are less common than plastic or metal crates, but they do have some of the most attractive and customizable designs. They blend in well with your home décor and can be stained or painted to match your furniture. They also tend to be more enclosed, offering your dog a sense of security. However, some dogs may find the wood fun to chew on, and these crates can be more difficult to clean than plastic or metal ones.

When it comes to choosing the right dog crate, the above information will help you make the best decision for your furry friend. Remember, dogs are our loyal companions and deserve the best care possible. So be sure to choose a crate that will provide Fido with a comfortable space to call their own.

Wondering how to get started crate training your puppy? Check out our beginner's guide to puppy training for all the tips and tricks you need to know.