Tips On How To Buy Dog Cages And Crates

First of all, let me start with the terminology. Is there a big difference between dog cages and crates? Well, not really. The terms „dog cage“ and „dog crate“ are in fact used for the same goals and are virtually interchangeable terms. Many people believe that dog crates are really dog cages but designed to feel cozy by making it into a comfortable den. People seem to connect the word „cage“ to „prison“ so it is not used that much which is not a fair assessment unless you are talking about abusive sort of environment. The only difference that can be associated regarding dog cages and crates is the material used in design, and if you are talking about indoor/outdoor dog cages and crates. But in general, the terms are basically synonimus.

1. Types Of Dog Cages And Crates

There are several types of dog cages and crates for you to choose from; wire cages, plastic dog crate carriers which are also known as flight kennels (this adds another confusion since big outdoor dog cages can also be referred to as dog kennels), then there are nylon dog crate carriers and lastly there are soft-sided dog crate carriers.

• Wire cages – this is the most frequent type of dog cages and crates. Its main advantage is that it is extremely sturdy. With wire cages you have the benefit of modifying the size of the cage by adding an additional panel. So as your dog grows you are able to adjust the cage size according to the dog `s needs. Wire cages are most commonly collapsible and incorporate a sliding tray in the floor which makes it easier when cleansing.

• Plastic dog crate carriers – if you were looking for dog cages and crates you can use to travel with your dog by airplanes then this is it. When compared to wire cages they are far less heavy which makes it easier for you to carry them around. When you buy plastic crates, they are usually sent as a "two piece" top and bottom unit, so you need to assemble it first, but this is a simple and quick process. Their main disadvantage is that plastic dog crate carriers are less airy and have less light as they are most often enclosed on three sides, hence trickier to clean as well.

• Soft - sided crates - this type of dog cages and crates is definitely not for a young puppy. So these dog cages and crates are for those dogs who are not notorious for chewing and scratching stuff. Because otherwise sooner or later they will „break out“ of their cages. Soft-sided crates are also very light and easy to carry.

2. Dog Cages And Crates Size

When taking crate size into consideration you have to make sure that dog cages and crates are large enough so that the dog can sit up and not hit his head on the top. Also, you have to make sure that the dog is able to stretch out and turn around and not feel crowded. It would be a good thing for you to measure your dog. How do you do this? Measure the dog from his nose all the way to his tail which will give you the length of the dog. To get the height of the dog, measure from the top of his head to the ground. Then add 12 inches on average ( less for smaller breeds and more for big breeds) on that calculation.

3. Dog Cages And Crates Cover

This is not absolutely necessary but has proven to be very useful for calming dogs down and. The cover is to be placed on dog cages and crates to darken the inside and make the dog oblivious to anything that is going around him. You can use a regular blanket, although it would be wise to get a vinyl cover as it is easy for cleansing and will not harbour fleas. Just make sure there is enough air if you put a cover on dog cages and crates.

4. Dog Cages And Crates Bedding

Choose to cover the whole floor of dog cages and crates and avoid leaving any area uncovered as this might encourage soiling. Puppies do not wish to soil their beds by choice so it will help to encourage bowl control.

5. Dog Cages And Crates – Water

Obviously dogs need to drink water, so it would be wise for you to purchase a dog crate which has a heavy, non-tip dish of water. Why heavy? Because if you are having a puppy he will want to spill the water