Dog cage: which is the best?

© Parilov

Not something many people think about when their best friend paws around the house, but one dog cage it can prove to be an essential accessory in many situations. There are many different types on the market.

From wire and iron cages, to fabric transport cages ideal for travel, to airline approved and play pens, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

To buy a dog cage that fits your pet’s size, you need to look for a model that allows it to sit or lie down with its paws extended.

Handles, removable inner tray, top or side opening, foldable, solid XXL structure… dog cages all have different characteristics which we will show you below.

Is the arrival of the puppy expected in a short time? We have prepared this comparison to help you choose the best dog crate.

How to choose the size of the dog cage?

To choose the right size of crate for your dog, you have to consider the adult size of the animal.

If you buy a puppy box, in fact, you will have to change it several times until the specimen is fully grown. It is therefore easier to buy a large cage from the start, and opt for a divider to gradually adapt the space to the size of the specimen.

If you are adopting an adult dog, measure the length from the tip of the tail to the tip of the nose. Then make him sit down and measure the height from the ground to the ears. Here are the precise dimensions to take into account when choosing.

The dog crate shouldn’t be too small, because Fido needs to have room to lie on his side while he stretches his paws. He should also be able to sit up without lowering his head.

On the other hand, if the crate is too big, it may not feel safe. Furthermore, in a large cage it is also possible to make a toilet area and a sleeping area.

How to choose the size of a transport cage?

To choose the size of the transport crate (a travel kennel) you need to measure the dog from nose to tail and from the floor to the ears. If you have already bought an inner cage, use the same size!

The kennel should be dog-sized to provide comfortable and safe accommodation for the pet during transport. Car, train, plane… this type of dog cage is suitable for all types of travel.

Do not use a crate that is too large, as the dog will not be supported enough and could be injured in the event of a bump.

Why opt for a dog cage?

Choosing a dog crate can make life easier for us owners for several reasons.

First of all, it will help the puppy learn to clean itself. Dogs are clean animals and don’t do their business where they sleep. If you make sure your puppy is comfortable in his crate during the night, he won’t be able to go outside to do his business elsewhere and will soon realize that he needs to restrain himself.

The dog cage also teaches Fido that the night is for sleep and peace of mind. He won’t have much room to move and he will be forced to stay calm until the door is opened.

If you have a destructive specimen, the cage will also be very useful when the animal is alone in the house. It will be possible to lock him in his cage with his pillow and some toys, so that he can calmly wait for his master to return.

The cage is also the ideal solution for calming down stressed dogs. If used to his cage since he was a puppy, Fido will see it as a safe haven in which to hole up and will therefore be happy to move in when he is afraid of something: new visitors to the house, for example, or the noise of a thunderstorm.

Finally, if you intend to travel a lot with your pet, a dog cage is perfect for transporting by car. If Fido is in the right size crate, he will get used to it quickly and become carsick.

How to get Fido used to his cage?

In order for the dog to get used to being in his crate, it is necessary to make gradual steps. And we must not forget that if associated with positive and pleasant moments, this place will become a real refuge for the animal.

Place the crate in a busy room as dogs like to be close to their owners. Then, make it comfortable for Fido by putting his favorite pillow and toys in it. Naturally, initially you have to leave the door always open, so that the animal can enter when he wants and gradually get used to it.

The dog must feel that his cage is like a real home, his private space.

To encourage him to enter early on, reward snacks can be placed at the bottom. It is also possible to feed him some croquettes through the bars once Fido is inside, without closing the door.

Play a game: as soon as you indicate the cage, the animal should understand that it’s time to enter. If he obeys, give him some treats and warmly reward him with a few cuddles.

When he enters the cage without difficulty, to eat or sleep, close the door gently, for longer and longer periods. Being in the closed cage will then become a natural reflex for him and he will not become stressed when alone inside it.