by Native Gemini

Created on: August 09, 2009   Last Updated: August 10, 2009

Picking the appropriate size crate for your dog is generally an easy task. Some chain pet stores make the task even easier by allowing pets to come in the store with their owner. This way an owner will be best able to tell which crate is the right one by trying some out. Crate manufacturers have recently began marking the different sizes of crates they put on the market with a list of the best possible breeds for each specific crate. Crates are used for two main reasons, as an aid to house-training or other behavioral training or for a place where the dog can relax or sleep.

General guidelines to follow state that the dog must have enough room to comfortably stand up, turn around and lay down. This guideline is especially important when using a crate in conjunction with house-training. The idea is that a dog will not do its business where it lays or sleeps, provided the dog gets adequate out time and other training measures are used. The dog should have just enough room to be comfortable but no extra room to encourage the dog to do business on one end and lay on the other end of the crate. For those with a puppy this rule can mean having to purchase more than one crate. A small size may be needed when the pup is very young and being house-trained but later, one may need a medium or large crate when the pup grows up. For those with adult or senior dogs and trained dogs you can safely give a little extra room by purchasing a crate that is a little bigger than the dog needs. Older or arthritic dogs can benefit from being able to stretch out a little more rather than sleep in a curled fashion as is common with dogs.

Crates on the retail market are generally made from either metal wire or plastic. Most of the wire crates are open all the way around. There is good ventilation and the dog is able to see everything around them. For some dogs this is scary, as their crate is the equivalent of a den and as such must be as least partially hidden or covered. The crates that are made from plastic are also available on the retail market and provide a better choice for your dog's comfort and relaxation. The plastic crates do incorporate vents on each side and the door is a metal wire grid so there is still ventilation and ways for the dog to see out while feeling safe while the top, back and part of each side is solid plastic.

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