Should You Cover a Dog Crate?

Like humans, dogs need access to a place in which they feel safe and secure and which affords a certain degree of privacy. Although dogs are incredibly social creatures, they need places for rejuvenation and social withdrawal, especially in times of stress or exhaustion. When used properly, a dog crate can be that safe place as well as an important tool in house training and during travel.

  1. Why Use a Crate?

    • Dog owners commonly use crate training as a method of potty training and also to prevent destructive behaviors in teething puppies. The crate is never meant to be used as a form of punishment, nor should the dog be forced into the crate at any time. Some simple introduction steps can make the crate a happy and safe place for the dog to be used throughout her lifetime.
      An adult dog should never be crated for more than five hours at a time and not more than seven hours total in a day. Too much crate time prevents adequate socialization and exercise. Puppies can between 30 minutes and four hours at a time in a crate, depending on age. Fabric or collapsible and plastic crates are often used for traveling and have slightly less airflow than wire crates.

    Where To Put the Crate?

    • A dog should have enough room to stand comfortably, stretch and turn around easily in his crate. Putting a small puppy in a large crate might cause the puppy to use a far corner as a bathroom. To avoid purchasing several crate sizes, you can get a divider for the crate; the divider can be moved and eventually removed as the puppy grows.
      Do not place the crate in a secluded space such as a garage, which can keep your dog from outside stimuli or present a temperature hazard. A living room or owner's bedroom is recommended so that the dog feels as though he is surrounded by his "pack family," which creates a sense of security. When you are home, leave the door to the crate open so that your dog can rest comfortably or retreat, without feeling trapped.

    Should the Crate be Covered?

    • Evolutionarily speaking, dogs are den animals. Draping blankets or towels over their crates can help them feel safely enclosed; you also can make or buy covers that are designed to cover dog crates. A cover can help eliminate visual distractions when the dog is trying to sleep or relax. Make sure the blanket is not too thick or heavy, or the dog might not get proper cooling or ventilation. If your dog is chewing or eating the blanket, remove the blanket immediately. Swallowing pieces of fabric can cause serious health issues. Giving the dog a "project" such as a choke-free chew toy or snack can help prevent chewing behaviors and make the crate an appealing place to be. The only reason not to cover the crate would be if your dog becomes notably more anxious or upset when the crate is covered and is more comfortable without a cover.

    Be Safe

    • A dog should never wear a collar or leash of any kind while inside crate; these items can snag on crate wires and potentially be deadly. Dogs suffering from vomiting or diarrhea should not be left in a crate, and dogs need a proper chance to eliminate waste beforehand.
      Watch for any signs of damage to either the cage or the dog's body (usually around the mouth or paw areas), which could signal an extreme emotional reaction to the crate and self-destructive behavior. Consult with a behavioral specialist or consider alternatives such as a dog-sitter, doggie daycare, or a larger outdoor pen enclosure.