The Best Plastic Crates for Beagles

A beagle's owner is responsible for providing her dog with essential items such as food, medication, toys and bedding. Many also provide their hounds with a plastic crate as a safe place to stay when the dog is alone. Understanding the characteristics of this breed can help determine the best type of plastic crate for a beagle.

  1. Beagles

    • Beagles are small, happy-go-lucky hounds that love being around people and other dogs. These dogs are normally 13 to 15 inches tall, weigh up to 30 pounds, and come in red, white and lemon color patterns. Beagles are scent hounds, and will follow a scent trail with great curiosity, according to American Kennel Club.

    Plastic Crates

    • There are many brands of plastic crates, but most have the same basic style. These crates are made entirely of durable plastic or plastic with metal doors and ventilation windows. Plastic crates are lightweight, and the top and side panels provide more of a "den-like" feel to the dog inside.

    Ventilation &View

    • Since beagles are social dogs, they do not like feeling isolated. Allowing the dog to see its family from inside the crate is important, so a plastic crate with large ventilation panels on all sides will enable the beagle inside to observe its surroundings without feeling left out.

    Durability

    • Due to their strong sense of smell, beagles are prone to escaping from yards and houses to follow a scent, according to the National Beagle Club of America. A determined beagle with a scent to follow can potentially chew through a weak plastic spot, so a thicker plastic crate is more desirable. Additionally, metal wire reinforcements on the door and side ventilation panels can better withstand a beagle's chewing in an attempt to escape.

    Size

    • Plastic crates are sold in many different sizes. According to Beaglesavvy.com, the crate for a beagle should be from 24 to 30 inches tall since these dogs range on average from 13 to 15 inches tall. The dog should be able to stand up all the way, turn around and lie down comfortably.