For dogs of different sizes and breeds, a dog crate can be a tough decision to make. What size to buy, what type is best, and whether you need one are all common questions. Dog crates are extremely helpful to many pet owners, for a wide variety of reasons, and are worth considering. Buying a crate though, there are key differences to look at which will play into your final decision.
Dog crates aren’t very aesthetically pleasing. Although there are some more stylish ones available, they still can’t help but resemble a cage. They’re usually made from metal, wire, plastic, or sometimes fabric, incorporated into a design where the dog is able to be secured and transported safely.
What size dog crate you need correlates to the dog’s size as the space should be large enough for your dog to move around. Your dog should be able to sit up straight without banging their head on the ceiling, be able to turn around, and to be able to lay down on their side paws stretched out without feeling like they’re being cramped.
The most common mistake people make when buying a dog crate is they go too big with it. To use a crate for house training, it needs to be small enough so that the dog has the recognition to see it as a sleeping or rest area and not a place to pee. It must also be small enough that your dog feels safe and secure.
If you’re buying for a puppy, it’s more recommended to buy an adult sized crate you can customize to the appropriate size. This way, you don’t need to buy another as your dog grows. There are dividers which can be bought or made to reduce the size of a larger crate. Something simple like a removable wire, a wooden panel, a wooden board, or even thick cardboard can work.
Before purchasing a puppy crate, measure your dog first to know the dynamics you’re working with. Remember, they should be able to stretch out with ease. When you shop for a crate, the sizes are commonly given in length and weight. This can help you decide what’s best for your puppy or dog.
If you’re searching pet supplies for your dog or are interested in buying a dog crate in Canada, Living.ca has a number of options we can suggest. Stop in anytime and check out our pet supplies, dog crates, and more.
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