The Best Dog Crates

Dog crates are often the most expensive accessory an owner will ever buy for their dog. It is the dog's personal space within the home and can also be used in the car. Because they can be rather costly, it's important to get a dog crate that will meet your dog's needs throughout its life. The best dog crate depends on the dog and its individual needs.

  1. Dog Crate Size

    • A dog crate should be big enough for the dog to stand up comfortably, turn around, lie down and stretch in. However, it should not be so big that the dog can soil one area of the crate and lie in another. When buying a crate for a puppy, be sure to buy one that is large enough to accommodate it as it grows to maturity. The best puppy crate should also have removable panels allowing the crate to grow with the dog. Alternatively, a cardboard box could be placed inside a large crate to keep the puppy in a small area of the crate; this would prevent it from using that part of the create as a toilet area, ensuring it uses the crate to sleep in only.

    Wire Crates

    • For long-haired breeds and dogs kept in warmer climates, wire crates are the best option. The bars allow for proper ventilation, which in turn helps keep the dog cool. The best wire crate for your dog should have the bars spaced closely enough to ensure that its head, nose and paws cannot fit between them.

    Plastic Crates

    • Short-haired dogs and particularly those kept in cooler climates benefit from plastic dog crates. These are best used during situations when the dog is likely to become cold, as the plastic crate retains more heat than the wire one because they are solid boxes with ventilation only coming from the bars on the door. Plastic dog crates are also the best option if you intend to take your dog on an airplane, as they are approved by most airlines.

    Durability, Longevity and Security

    • The best dog crate, whether wire or plastic, should be durable and sturdy. Crates with removable panels will last a lifetime as they can grow with the dog. Check that latches and fasteners on the crate are strong enough to not bend or buckle. Not only will a broken lock or fastener render the crate useless, but it could injure your pet.