Dog Crate For Puppy Training

Your young puppy is an energetic, cute member of your family. Your puppy is learning how to behave each day. Training your puppy takes a lot of work, and using a dog crate can help in this process.

Crates can be used with your dog no matter what age. However, using a crate as part of your young puppies’ training can help with house training and other behavior modification. When you travel with your pup in the car, having them ride in a crate is an easy and secure spot.

Why should I use a Dog Crate for Puppy Training?

Your puppy has a natural desire to sleep and rest in a den. A crate provides this den feeling of safety and security for your pet. This space may eventually become a place your dog will flee to when they need space from a chaotic party or simply need rest.

Another reason for using a crate in training is that it provides a space that your pup will learn is designated for them alone. This becomes an essential part of teaching your pup where to pee, what not to chew, and how loud to play.

Where can I buy a Crate?

Pet stores such as PetsMart and Petco carry a variety of crates for dogs of all ages, sizes, and breeds. If you are a first-time dog owner, it may be a good idea to purchase a crate at the store so you can see them and inspect the crates.

Online retailers such as Chewy.com and Amazon.com provide a larger selection of crates. On these online sites, you are also able to read reviews and see various pictures for each selected crate.

How do I select a Proper Crate?

As with any purchase for your furry family member, be sure to consider all important factors before buying a dog crate for training your puppy. These factors include your pup’s age, size, breed, temperament, and price you are willing to pay.

Size is one of the most important factors in selecting a proper crate. The crate should be big enough for your puppy to stand up comfortably, turn around in a circle, and lie down. On the other hand, you do not want it to be too big and provides a lot of room for your puppy to walk around.

Many crates are designed to grow with your dog by using space dividers. This allows you to block off much of the crate space when your puppy is little and expand the open space as your pup grows and develops.

The next decision in buying a crate is selecting the material. Some crates are metal or fabric, while others are made of plastic.

Metal Crates

Metal crates may be the best choice for your puppy because they are easy to clean and provide a good amount of ventilation. In addition, they often come with a metal divider to block off areas of a bigger crate to allow for the proper fit while your pup is growing.

These crates are also a great option if you will travel with your puppy as they are easily collapsible. Metal crates also allow your puppy to see what is going on around them, which may be good as part of your training routine with the crate.

If your pup tends to be a bit mischievous and can escape easily, you may not want to purchase a metal crate. Although the latches are secure, many pups figure out a way to unlatch the locks and escape.

Midwest Homes has its own single and double door foldable metal crates which boasts of features of safety and security.

Also, MidWest Homes produces several well-priced metal crate options for your puppy. You can choose from their double door or single door models.

Impact as well has a collapsible yet durable dog crate made of aluminum. The company boasts of its 100% dog-friendly crates made without using any harmful toxins, chemicals, or dyes in any of its materials.

Plastic Crates

Plastic dog crates do not provide your pup with as much ventilation or visibility as the metal option. However, if your dog enjoys cozy, secluded spaces, this may be the best option.

These crates are easy to travel with but can be difficult to clean. Plastic crates are designed to come apart in two large pieces and can be stored away easily if needed when not in use.

The Petmate Two-Door Top Load Dog Kennel is an affordable, highly rated option that provides several colors for you to choose from. This kennel is also approved for safe air travel.

There’s also the Heavy-Duty Pet Kennel, which comes in different sizes. It features good ventilation on all sides.

Soft-Sided Crates

If your puppy is a smaller breed, you may choose to purchase a soft-sided crate. However, these crates are not ideal for larger dogs or if your pup tends to destroy things around the house. Fabric crates are also challenging to clean.

One of the benefits of fabric crates is that they are very light and easy to handle. This makes soft-sided crates great for travel. They are also very easy to store and do not take up much space when not in use.

The Petnation Port-a-Crate is one option for soft-sided crates and as a crate for traveling. This model may be used even with larger dogs during short periods or outdoor activities.

You may also want to check out this 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate. It also comes in various sizes for different dog breeds and ages. Plus, it is well-ventilated and durable.

Crate Safety

As your puppy is learning and growing, it is important to use the crate as a tool. Your pup’s crate should not be used as a trap. You want your puppy to enjoy their crate and look forward to the comfort they find inside.

When your pup is young and not yet house trained, be sure to only leave them inside the crate for 2-3 hours before a potty break. Leaving your pup inside the crate for too long may become dangerous and stressful for your dog. As your dog gets older, it can make it for longer periods. Be sure to never leave your dog in their crate for more than 8 hours without a bathroom break/.

Be sure that Your pup’s crate has plenty of air. Metal crates naturally provide good ventilation. If you choose a plastic crate, be sure the crate is in a space to allow air to flow freely. You want to make sure that your pup does not get too hot while inside the crate.

Summary

The use of crates can be a helpful and important part of your puppy training.

Be sure to select a crate that fits your needs as well as your new pet. Only use the crate when your pup is monitored or left alone for a few hours.