Pet Dog Crates » dog cage

Wicker Dog Crate

The Dog Crate Guy — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:55:43 +0000

Wicker dog crates are quickly becoming the most recognizable, popular and stylish dog crates on the market today. The combination of beautiful imitation wicker and sturdy craftsmanship in a multitude of designs ensures that there will most definitely be a wicker dog crate that will suit your home.

A wicker dog crate is exactly the same in functionality as the traditional wire dog crate, however instead of stopping at a wire frame finish a fashionable designer wicker crate is crafted around the outside of the dog crate. These external wicker finishes are designed with exceptional craftsmanship so you no longer have to hide your dogs crate in a corner and out of sight. These crates will fit into any type of home decor with little problems at all.

As with most other dog crates, wicker dog crates are very easily cleaned with soap and water. They contain a removable rugged plastic pan that also increases the ease in which the cage is cleaned. One less than desirable aspect of some wicker crates is that they tend to have spring loaded door latches, while these can be good in theory the last thing you want is a crate door slamming shut on your poor little dogs paws.

Wicker dog crates come in a wide variety of different colors, styles and prices with price being directly related to the craftsmanship of the exterior wicker detail. Basically it is a case of you get what you pay for with a wicker dog cage. However keep in mind that a wicker dog cage will be many times more attractive than a standard dog cage, so if you are looking for a beautiful dog cage to compliment your home you should most definitely consider a wicker dog crate.

Features:

Wicker weave won’t absorb fluids or odors
Easily cleaned with soap and water
Window openings on the sides and back provide proper ventilation and visibility
Door opens inward – out of the way
Latches securely out of the way
Elevated base and feet protect flooring
Double tough pan is easily removed
Decorative natural look that will compliment any interior decor
Available in a wide variety of colors and styles

Advantages of Wicker Dog Crates

Wicker dog crates share all of the advantages of the traditional wire dog crate as well as having some extra additional benefits.

Stylish Designer Appearance - Wicker dog crates are much more fashionable and stylish than most other dog crates. As such they more easily fit into the interior decor of your own home.

Protection from Elements – Because the wicker finish encapsulates the whole dog crate your pet will be well protected from draughts and other windy cold conditions. Wicker crates allow your pet to fit snugly inside their den and retain body heat at a much higher level.

When not to use a Wicker Dog Crate

While wicker dog crates certainly are stylish they are not suitable for every situation. If you are on a budget and do not want to spend a great deal of money on a dog crate then a wicker dog crate is not the way to go. Wicker crates can be 2 – 5 times more expensive than regular dog crates with much the same functionality. Rather you may be better served by a simple plastic dog crate that offer more bang for your buck.

Recommended Wicker Dog Crate

If you have any more questions regarding wicker dog crates please don’t hesitate to contact us…we would love to hear from you!

Dog Travel Crates

The Dog Crate Guy — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 14:06:45 +0000

You may not always like crating your dog and feel nasty for doing it, but sometimes it’s necessary for your pets safety to be crated. In fact during travel it can be beneficial for both you and your dogs safety if they are crated. With your puppy safely crated while your driving you can concentrate on the road and not your car interior and in the case of an accident your companion will be much more protected inside a dog travel crate.

The options of dog travel crates are endless, but it is worth spending the time to find a crate that is suitable to your needs, and maybe more importantly the comfort and safety for your pet.

Airline Dog Travel Crates

If you need a travel dog crate suitable for airline travel you are restricted by what the law will allow. There are two options in this category:

Soft sided dog crates can be used if your airline will allow you to check your dog in as carry-on luggage. These travel dog crates are more like handbags or duffel bags, depending on the size of your dog and what the airline will allow you to use. Check out our section on soft sided dog crates for more information on these.

Plastic dog crates are the only travel dog crates certified for air travel if you are checking in your pet as other luggage. These forms of travel crates are a lot sturdier, safer and more comfortable for your pet. Make sure that when selecting this style of travel dog crate that it is certified for air travel and that the airline you are flying with will allow you to use it. Check out our section on plastic dog crates or airline dog crates for more information

Car travel dog crate

In most cases the best option for a car travel dog crate is one that can easily be disassembled or compacted to save space while not in use. We suggest the use of collapsible dog crates and foldable dog crates while traveling by car. Both designs are sturdy and will protect your dog and will fold away into a neat package to store.

What dog travel crate should I choose?

Selecting the right dog travel crate for your needs is obviously extremely important for the safety of your pet. When picking out a dog crate to suit you, make sure that it will suit all your needs current and future.

Make sure when shopping for a crate you create a comprehensive list of the uses you will need it for. Whether you will be flying, driving or catching a train, ensure you buy a crate that caters for all your needs.

Recommended Travel Crates

What are the other options besides a travel crate?

If you didn’t find any of these travel dog crate options suitable to you try checking out wire dog crates or portable dog crates, you may find that they suit your needs better than anything else that we’ve suggested.

There are always risks associated with traveling, whether you’re taking the bus, traveling by car or flying. Studies have shown that pets that are secured safely in the appropriate travel dog crate are safer and more likely to avoid serious injury. Take care of your best friend.

If you have any more questions about dog travel crates please don’t hesitate to contact us…we love hearing from you!

Wooden Dog Crate

The Dog Crate Guy — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 11:45:52 +0000

Looking for something that’s suitable and comfortable for your dog but worried that the standard greens and beiges of a plastic crate won’t match your decor? A wooden dog crate, or furniture dog crates as they are often referred to may be the solution you’re after. It’s functional for your dog or puppy and your living room.

Wooden dog crates are usually constructed from solid hardwood or stylish plastic materials. These specific types of dog crate are durable and comfortable for your pet, and they are also a great solution for adding a crate to your bedroom or living room without the clutter and ungainly appearance of cheaper types of crate.

Wooden dog crates have the functionality of other dog crates – allowing you to train or house break your pet they also keep your house safe from destruction and assist in eliminating separation anxiety.

Most importantly, at the end of a hard day eating, running, playing and sniffing – your best friend can curl up inside a nice comfortable, stylish bed and just watch some TV.

Features:

Wide range of stylish designs to suit your house
Can double as a bed side table or other piece of furniture
Comfortable and protective for your dog
Classic and chique styles available
Same functionality as other classic dog crates

Advantages of a Wooden Dog Crate

Stylish - wooden dog crates come in a range of styles and designs to fit most decors and housing layouts. Everything from coffee tables and bedside tables, through to mantle-pieces and modern cases. A perfect fit for any home.

Functional - wooden dog crates don’t lose any functionality that plastic dog crates or other dog crates have. They are fantastic for training and keeping your beloved pet safe.

When not to use a Wooden Dog Crate

Wooden dog crates are not suited to any form of travel. For transporting your pet, a better selecting would be a portable dog crate or a folding dog crate. For a list of travel suggestions check travel dog crate

Our Top Wooden Dog Crates

Midwest Wooden Dog Crate Table

The Midwest Classic Collection Wooden Crate Table is a modern, unique and sophisticated way to house your dog within your home. From a dogs perspective nothing beats being part of the family. Yet many households place the dogs crate away from the social areas of the home, simply because the look of a crate can be so unappealing.

The Midwest Classic Collection offers a beautiful practical solution with this elegant, hardwood crate cover that is as good-looking as it is functional. This handsome table is specifically designed as an overlay for the crate, allowing easy one-, two- or three-door access to your pet. Handcrafted with sleek lines and a rich, cherry wood finish, the enclosed furniture is easy to assemble and can work as a sofa table, side table or on its own as a freestanding piece. Your best friend will be thrilled to remain with the rest of the pack, and you will be thrilled to have him (without that unattractive crate spoiling the dcor).

Features: Designed specifically to work with iCrate and Life Stages containment systems (iCrate and Life Stages crates sold separately).

If you have any questions about wooden dog crates please contact us…we would love to hear from you!

Portable Dog Crate

The Dog Crate Guy — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 03:43:07 +0000

A portable dog crate is an absolute necessity for those dog owners who are going to be traveling often with their family friend. When choosing your portable dog crate it is important to note that they come in a huge number of sizes and styles, from soft sided portable crates, to plastic portable crates to wire frame portable crates. The most important aspect to remember is to choose something that will be both comfortable for your dog and appropriate for your own travel circumstances.

Portable dog crates give you an effective way to stop your pets from harming themselves or damaging you or your friend property. As an additional benefit a portable crate can also be used to housebreak a puppy no matter their environment, meaning that you do not have to put off house training no matter what the circumstance.

Another positive benefit associated with portable crates is that while the services of the portable crate are not required it can be quite easily folded flat making it both easy to store and transport.

Many people often question the durability and quality of a portable dog crate, most people are worried that because they are folded down and set up so often they are much more likely to break. This is a myth, portable dog crates are some of the most sturdy, durable and high quality dog crates you can find at some of the cheapest prices.

It’s not every day that you buy a dog crate but when you do you want one that will last for a long time and provides good value for your hard earned money. Portable dog crates give dog owners fantastic value for money and peace of mind that they will last through the wear and tear your pet puts it through.

Features:

Rounded corners protect auto and home interiors
Waterproof trays are removed for easy cleaning
Top, front, and side entry doors for easy access
Compact fold for storage and shelf space
Name tag sleeve for clear identification
Made from tough, water resistant materials
Most portable crates will have extra strong steel frames
Easy locking latches
No tools needed for setup
Can be used indoors or outdoors
Great for home or on the road

Advantages of Portable Dog Crates

Portability – The very nature of a portable dog crate makes them perfect for using when traveling with your dog. They are so easy to set up and take down that they can be taken anywhere from the beach, to the park, to family friends houses or on vacation. Anywhere you go your dog can have a safe haven to feel comfortable and safe in

Lightweight and Simple Storage – Most portable dog crates are made from lightweight materials to aid in making them travel proof. By folding up into such a small unit and being light weight they can be very easily stored when not in use.

Versatility – Because many portable dog crates are so cheap and convenient they can be used as a very versatile secondary den for your dog. For example you may have a dedicated indoor crate for your dog, you can use the portable dog crate as a secondary den in your bedroom, in the car or for a whole host of other uses.

When not to use a Portable Dog Crate

If you are not going to be moving your dogs crate very often or indeed at all, then it may be prudent to look at a more permanent type of dog crate for your pet. There is a much wider variety of dog crates that are designed to be permanent enclosures for your dog for example wire dog crates or wicker dog crates. By shopping around you may find something that is more suitable to your individual homes interior decor.

Our Favorite Portable Dog Crates

If you have any questions about portable dog crates please don’t hesitate to contact us…we would love to hear from you!

Metal Dog Crate

The Dog Crate Guy — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 02:46:34 +0000

A metal dog crate is a much stronger and sturdier option for a dog crate compared to traditional wire and plastic dog crates. Metal dog crates provide the strength and durability dog owners could be looking for when selecting a dog crate that can be used as a transport box on the back of a pick-up truck or SUV.

Metal dog crates are perhaps the most popular and common type of dog crate. They consist of a wire structure which allows your dog to enjoy comfortable ventilation and visual contact without being able to sneak out and terrorize your home and possessions. The metal crates for dogs can be hand painted or left in the original color of the metal, today many metal crates are being combined with wooden exteriors to create beautiful wooden designer dog crates.

Features:

Metal or aluminum construction for maximum durability
Can be foldable for easy storage and portability
Potential to includes divider panels for a growing puppy
Rubber feet protect floor surfaces and secure crate in place
Tough, easy-to-clean ABS plastic pan
Available in various sizes, shapes and colors
Single, double or triple door designs

Advantages of Metal Dog Crates

Easy to clean – Plastic dog crates tend to absorb odors and stains into the plastic quite readily. Metal dog crates however do not have this problem. Metal is not a permeable material therefor odors and stains cannot seep into it. Metal crates are also easier to clean because they can simply be hosed and sprayed clean, plastic models tend to need more scrubbing.

Durability – Metal crates are some of the most durable dog crates on the market. Plastic dog crates tend to not withstand harsh weather if left outdoors. A metal dog crate on the other hand will not only withstand harsh weather conditions, the metal material won’t wear down.

Outdoor Comfort – A metal dog crate will be much more comfortable for you pet dog when they are caged outdoors. Metal dog cages allow for far more ventilation, and will keep your pet cooler in warm weather. Plastic dog crates absorb the outdoor heat and make the pet very hot, bothered and uncomfortable.

When not to use a Metal Dog Crate

Metal dog crates tend to be very heavy and bulky, as a result they are not very conducive to traveling and transport.If you intend on doing a lot of traveling with your pet and you want to be able to easily relocate your dogs crate then I would suggest looking at a more suitable portable dog crate or a collapsible dog crate.

Safety during travel can be another issue when considering a metal dog crate. Many people don’t take the time to consider that they will be traveling at very high speeds with your pet in the back of your vehicle. If you have a crate set up in the back of a truck for travel purposes, you can risk severely injuring your pet if they are left unattended in the crate.

Recommended Metal Dog Crates

The Other Door Steel Crate with Plush Pad

The Other Door is an innovative pet crate that is both stylish, durable and economical. This crate will blend in really well with your home decor as you can choose the color that best suits you.

The Other Door is made of heavy-gauge, black steel grids and heavy-duty, blow-molded plastic with rounded corners to protect walls and vehicle interiors. This crate has a top, front, and 2 side entry doors open for easy access. The large front door swings up and in (just like a garage door) and the entire cage can be quickly and compactly folded for convenient storage. It is a breeze to set up when needed and can be transported easily with built-in wheels and a pull handle.

The Other Door includes a waterproof bottomed, plush comfort pad for your pet’s comfort and vinyl carry bag. It also comes in a wide variety of gorgeous colors and sizes for all types of dog.

If you have any more questions about metal dog crates don’t hesitate to contact us…we love to hear from you!

Double Door Dog Crate

The Dog Crate Guy — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 22:39:37 +0000

When your new little puppy isn’t quite trained yet or for some reason or another you cannot trust your dog to roam freely around the house while your not there, it is time to begin thinking about introducing him to a double door dog crate.

By using a double door dog crate you can rest assured that your house will be safe and that your puppy won’t be getting into any trouble by tearing up your carpet, chewing on your furniture or doing anything else that naughty or unwarranted.

A double door dog crate is exactly what its name suggests, a dog crate that has two doors. The double door dog crate has gained a lot of popularity in recent years because of its added convenience in dealing with the interior of the dog crate. Traditionally dog crates had only a single door, however by having two doors you are much more able to access the insides of your dog crate which gives you increased control over the training of your dog or puppy.

For example having two doors gives you the freedom to be able to get your dog in and out of the one door, whilst being able to use the second door for cleaning the den, putting in the crate pad, restocking food dishes, toys and other interior elements.

Setting up a double door dog crate is very simple and can be achieved by even those with next to no technical know how. If you can follow a set of simple instructions then you should have no problem putting this style of dog crate together.

In order to protect your dog from accident the wiring of most double door dog crates is covered with a durable electro coat finish that is chew resistant. For added security and safety the doors all lock with slide bolt latches, ensuring that your dog will not be able to accidentally escape while you are away from home.

Features:

Double door design for easy interior access
Easy assembly in only seconds, no tools required
Folds up “suitcase style” for easy transport and storage
Doors equipped with “slide bolt” latches for maximum security
Easy to clean and secure. Plastic pan compatible
Can be modified using divider panels
Adjust the length of the living area as your puppy grows into its adult size home

Advantages of Double Door Dog Crates

Double door dog crates share all of the advantages of the traditional wire dog crate as well as having some extra additional benefits.

Flexible Access and Easier Pet Control – having multiple access points into your pets crate gives you added flexibility in how you can deal with the interior of the den. For example by simply opening the top door you can ensure your dog doesn’t go running out of the crate if you need to change it’s food or water.

Style and Decor Versatility – because the double door dog crate has multiple access point it can be positioned virtually anywhere within your house and remain accessible.

When not to use a Folding Dog Crate

A wire double door dog crate should be avoided in certain situations. If you live in a drafty, cold area then a wire dog crate may not be suitable. Puppies and smaller dogs may be better served by an enclosed crate such as a wicker dog crate that will allow them to retain body heat more easily. Double door dog crates are also generally not suited well to traveling, if you are going to be traveling a lot with your pet then it might be a good idea to take a look at a travel dog crate.

Recommended Double Door Dog Crates

If you have any questions about double door dog crates contact us…we love to hear from you!

Folding Dog Crate

The Dog Crate Guy — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 06:43:55 +0000

A folding dog crate is an extremely versatile dog crate that offers owners great flexibility in how, when and where they can take and crate their pet dog. One of the most pleasing aspects of a folding crate is that at no stage during your dogs life does its natural routine need to be broken for any reason. No matter where you need to take your pet you can simply fold up its crate and provide it with a comfortable home wherever it is required.

Folding crates are designed to be ‘folded down’ by following several easy steps to create a suitcase style crate setup that can be easily transported and stored. The result ensures that traveling with your favorite pet is easier than ever before.

Most folding dog crates contain a number of inbuilt security features designed to keep you and your dog safe through assembly and use of the crate. For example most leading folding crates will feature an overlapping door on door frame mechanism that ensures the crate remains securely closed. As well as this all folding dog cage models are designed with double slide bolt latches again to increase safety and security for you and your dog.

If you want the flexibility to be able to travel with your pet, or create a safe and comfortable environment for your dog in a number of locations (park, friends, relatives, sports center etc.) then a folding dog crate can provide you with the equipment to do so.

Features:

Fold and carry design
Folds into a “suitcase style” in seconds for easy portability and storage
Safe and secure slide bolt latches
Pan removal is facilitated with the crate door closed
Floor grids and divider panels are available for most models
Sturdy enough to last through all stages of a dog’s life
Adjustable living and roaming space
House training takes half the time by keeping elimination and sleep areas distinct

Advantages of Folding Dog Crates

Simple Transport and Storage – A folding dog crate can be ‘folded down’ into a small suitcase sized package in a matter of moment. Once folded it takes up very little room for in home storage or in car transportation.

Travel Flexibility – Because you can fold the crate into an easy to transport suitcase in a matter of moments there is no reason to leave your dogs crate behind anymore. This means that your pets house training can continue regardless of circumstance and you are free to travel and move about freely.

Dog Comfort – Overtime your pet dog will become accustomed to its crate treating like its home within your home. By being so easily transportable you can make your pet feel comfortable in any environment by ensuring it has a familiar ‘home’ in which to den.

When not to use a Folding Dog Crate

If you are not going to be moving your dogs crate very often or indeed at all, then it may be prudent to look at a more permanent type of dog crate for your pet. There is a much wider variety of dog crates that are designed to be permanent enclosures for your dog for example metal dog crates or wicker dog crates. By shopping around you may find something that is more suitable to your individual homes interior decor.

Recommended Folding Dog Crates

Duracrate Folding Dog Crate

DuraCrate Folding Two Door Dog Crates are some of the most established and trusted dog crates on the market today!

Duracrate crates include a divider panel which will allow the crate to grow with your pet, saving you the expense of investing in a larger crate as your Pet grows up.

The super strong steel cage has a strong powder coated finish. Designed with narrow bar spacing for additional durability. It also includes the newest design in security latches.

The 4 Larger Sizes include an extra door on the side for easy access to your Pet. Comes with a durable plastic pan, that is removable for easy clean up. No tools required for set up. Replacement Pans and Floor Grates are also available.

These crates come in a huge range of sizes so you will definitely be able to find one that will fir your dog.

Generation II Deluxe Folding Soft Crate

This is one of the classiest folding do crates available for pet owners today, give your pooch deluxe accommodations when he’s on the go!

The Deluxe Home ‘N Go Folding soft crate is ideal for travel and transport of your dog. The crate is constructed of tough, waterproof material over a strong steel frame that can be folded down for easy storage. The crates feature top, front, and side doors and easy locking latches for easy access and a storage bag for the included fleece pad.

Home ‘N Go Deluxe crates also include a detachable treat and toy bag, and adjustable leash, a removable inner tray for easy cleaning, and a soft, double sided fleece pad. The crates come in a number of stylish colors and sizes so all sizes of dogs can be catered for.

If you want any more information about folding dog crates contact us…we would love to hear from you!

Wire Dog Crate

The Dog Crate Guy — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 04:04:12 +0000

A wire dog crate is a dog crate that is composed of thick wire, metal or stainless steel on all six sides of the dog cage. By utilizing a wire frame instead of an enclosed crate, visibility and ventilation are increased for your dog which creates a much nicer living environment for your pet. One of the significant advantages of using a wire crate is that they can also be collapsible or foldable which makes them ideal for storage, travel and transport.

Most wire dog crates will have raised internal flooring which are designed to elevate your dog over a solid crate pan. The idea is that the crate pan will catch any food, water, or waste that would normally build up on the flooring of your dogs crate. The benefit being that these wire crates are very easy to clean.

A wire dog crate is very useful in house training and protecting puppies or older animals that can become quite destructive when left alone to their own devices. Wire dog crates are generally designed with two access doors, one at the front of the dog cage and another on top. Having a top of cage access panel is very convenient, especially if you plan on housing a litter of puppies. By opening the top rather than the front of the dog crate you lessen the risk of the puppies escaping the crate when they are not supposed to.

When selecting a wire dog crate it is incredibly important to consider the size of the wire, be sure that the wire panels are close enough together so that your dogs paws won’t fall through the bottom grid. Also make sure you check for any sharp edges. Be wary of front crate doors that are spring loaded, these doors can potentially snap shut on a paw or tail injuring your dog unnecessarily.

Features:

Offers a den with a great view for you and your dog
Increases interaction between you and your dog
Provides good ventilation and air circulation
Very easy to clean
Easy to store, transport and travel
There are no small parts (nuts/bolts/screws etc.)
Made of heavy duty galvanized materials
Can be folded up into a suitcase type style for sturdy transportation
Suitable for use with dog crate mats and other accessories

Advantages of Wire Dog Crates

Ventilation and air circulation - A wire dog crate is very well suited to dogs that have long or thick coats or if you live in a very warm climate. Wire dog crates are completely open which provides quite a lot of air movement within the crate. This in turn allows your puppy or dog to stay nice and cool.

Dividability – Most wired dog crates come is a wide variety of shapes and sizes, a key advantage of these crates is that most offer divider panels. What this means is that if you have a puppy you can buy a larger crate and use dividing panels to make it the right size for your puppy. As your puppy grows up you can release more and more of the cage which means you do not have to make additional caging purchases saving you lots of money in the long run.

Foldability – Most wire dog crates can be quickly and easily ‘broken down’ for storage or travel.

Allows your dog to see his environment – A wire crate allows your dog to see what’s going on around him, which can reduce feelings of isolation or separation. This may be a disadvantage depending on your particular dog, as explained below.

Easy to clean – You can find many wire crates with a slid-out tray underneath to catch dropped food, water and other wastage. Because the crate is so well ventilated odors are allowed to escape more easily.

When not to use a Wire Dog Crate

A wire dog crate should be avoided in certain situations. If you live in a drafty, cold area then a wire dog crate may not be suitable. Puppies and smaller dogs may be better served by a wooden enclosed crate that will allow them to retain body heat more easily.

Similarly if you want to travel with your dog regularly then a wire dog crate may not be ideal. For starters these types of dog crate tend to be quite heavy making them hard to transport easily. Secondly most wire dog crates are not airline approved, if you wish to travel with your dog then you will need to buy a second dog travel crate to make the trip.

Recommended Wire Dog Crates

The Other Door Wire Crate with Plush Pad

The Other Door is an innovative pet crate that is both stylish and durable. This crate blends well with your home decor as you can choose the color that best suits you.

These crates are made of heavy-gauge, black steel grids and heavy-duty, blow-molded plastic with rounded corners to protect walls and vehicle interiors.

This crate has a top, front, and 2 side entry doors open for easy access. The large front door swings up and in (just like a garage door) and the entire cage can be quickly and compactly folded for convenient storage.

It is a breeze to set up when needed and can be transported easily with built-in wheels and a pull handle. The Other Door includes a waterproof bottomed, plush comfort pad for your pet’s comfort and vinyl carry bag.

If you want any more information about wire dog crates don’t hesitate to contact us…we would love to help you out!

Soft Sided Dog Crate

The Dog Crate Guy — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 03:01:07 +0000

A cheaper more portable version of the plastic, wire and metal crates is the soft sided dog crate.

All sides of soft sided crates are constructed from breathable fabric material and most are ventilated with nylon netting around the sides. Due to the light-weight construction of the soft sided dog crates they are cheaper to purchase and easier to carry around, usually only requiring you to insert small poles to hold them up, some models simply require you to remove them from their bag and they pop up.

Some variations of the soft sided dog crate have handles and allow you to easil transport your beloved pet while moving or driving. These are generally only recommended for smaller sized dogs however.

Features:

Strong, easily washable coated nylon mesh fabric
All fabric is water resistant
Fabric is breathable and lightly colored to keep your pet cool
Reinforced corners and connection points
Durable, zippered door
Most models allow padlock usage
Quick and easy to set-up and knockdown

Advantages of Soft Sided Dog Crates

Soft sided crates are easily transported and easy to assemble, allow you to transport your pet with ease, remain cool for your pet so they remain comfortable, washable and water proof.

When not to use a Soft Sided Dog Crate

Soft sided dog crates are a versatile product that you can use in most situations, there are however some times when they are not suitable for your needs.

If you have a larger dog that you need to transport soft sided crates can be too flexible and bend under their weight damaging the frame. In this case we would suggest using either a wire dog crate or a plastic dog crate suitable for air travel.

When traveling by air or train we suggest using a plastic dog crate or a metal dog crate. The sides of soft dog crates dont offer protection from impact and sharp objects can penetrate the material.

Recommended Soft Sided Crates

If you want more information about soft sided dog crates please contact us…we would love to be able to help out!

Dog Crate 101 – An Introduction to Dog Crates

The Dog Crate Guy — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 12:02:53 +0000

Hello and welcome to dog crate 101 an area where you will find a huge amount of information devoted entirely to dog crates and how they can benefit you in the house training of your beloved companion.

There is no doubt that you are reading this because you want to build a relationship with your dog that is built on mutual trust and respect. Dog crates allow you to create a safe and comfortable environment for your new puppy or long time family friend that is conducive to building obedience and laying the foundation for long term home training for your pet.

Choose a topic that you would like to read more information about or simply dive right in from the start and find out how a dog crate will benefit you and mans best friend.

What is a dog crate?
Why do I need a crate for my dog?
Will a dog crate make house training my dog any easier?
But isnt using a dog crate like punishing my dog?
What dog behavior problems can a dog crate help fix?
Where can I get a dog crate?
What type of dog crates are available?
What size of dog crate will I need for my dog?
How much do do crates generally cost?
Crating do’s and do not’s.

What is a dog crate?

Dog crates come in a variety of styles and sizes ranging from metal to wicker to plastic to wooden to collapsible and even specific travel based crates. Basically a dog crate is a portable dog den that is specifically designed to be a little bit bigger than your dog which allows your pet to have some space of its own.

Think about this…every member of your family has their own room they can retreat to for some peace and quiet. Consider a crate as your dogs own personal room, an area where they can retreat to feel safe and get some peace and quiet. Having a dog crate allows you greater flexibility over the security, safety, protection and house training of your dog.

Many people argue that ‘crating’ your dog is inhumane or cruel and will result in your dog acting out against you or your family friends. However if not abused and used appropriately your dog will thankyou for providing it with a haven in which it can feel safe, comfortable and secure.

Why do I need a crate for my dog?

To understand the answer to this question you must first see what a dog crate represents to your own dog. Dogs are very primitive creatures and in times gone by they used to sleep with their packs (families) in small cozy dens. These dens gave the families warmth, protection from the elements and protection from predators. These dens were only just big enough for the pack to fit and turn around in.

Dogs today still have ties to these ancestral living conditions and quite often feel most comfortable when they are in a small, dark and cozy place. Have you ever seen a dog in a thunderstorm hide under your bed? It’s because this is a dark, cozy area they feel the most comfortable and secure within.

There are three main benefits and countless advantages to training your dog to use a dog crate:

1. Firstly its an extremely effective way of house training your dog. Dog crates satisfy your dog’s natural instinct to den and as such they are a great housebreaking tool. Dog’s will try to avoid making a mess of their resting area if given sufficient opportunity to do so elsewhere.

2. Dog crates can be a great way to eliminate separation anxiety. The crate allows your dog to become accustomed to separation from you, as such your dog will be more comfortable when you leave the house and not so worried about whether you’re coming home or not. This can avoid coming home to a chewed up sofa and the rest of your house in a mess.

3. They are a great travel aid, once your dog is accustomed to it’s enclosure you can bring your beloved friend along on those family holidays. Whether your traveling by air, rail or road you can rest assured that your dog will be comfortable and more importantly safe on those long trips.

Will a dog crate make house training my dog any easier?

An amazing thing about dogs is that intuitively they do not like to make a mess in their ‘den’ or area where they sleep. If you provide your dog with ample opportunity to go to the toilet away from their crate then they will do so with aplomb! By using a crate you can harness your dogs natural tendencies to keep their den as clean as possible thus speeding up the house training process.

When dogs are puppies they need constant supervision so as not to accidentally put themselves in harms way or to destroy any of your hard earned home furnishings. However sometimes it is hard to put our lives on hold to provide constant supervision to our adventurous little puppies. In these situations a dog crate comes in very handy in helping to prevent any unnecessary accidents your new puppy may create.

Using a crate and combining it with adequate supervision, an exercise regime and regular feeding patterns will help have your pet house trained in no time.

For more comprehensive information regarding how to crate train your dog take a look at our dog crate training article.

But isn’t using a dog crate like punishing my dog?

One of the most common misconceptions regarding dog crate training is that it is cruel, inhumane and punishing to you dog. Many people argue that subjecting your dog to crate training will psychologically damage your dog increasing the likelihood that they will act out against you and your friends.

Realistically a dog crate can be one of the most beneficial house training tools that you can use to help train your dog. However it is incredibly important that you do not overuse or abuse the dog crate or it will appear to your dog as an instrument of terror and torture. By using a crate appropriately in your own home domesticated dogs will appreciate a safe-haven that will soon become the dogs own private area…a refuge where the dog can feel safe secure and comfortable.

But just what is the difference between punishing your dog with a crate and using a crate to provide a safe and secure have for your pet?

Crate punishment occurs when a crate is inappropriately overused or misused in such a way to cause fear or terror within your dog. For some people using a crate is a way for them to get their dog out of the way for a long period of time. This is cruel and punishment for your dog. Dogs are social animals and it is unjust to keep them locked away in a crate for long periods of time, especially when you are home and can give them adequate supervision.

Another common example of crate punishment is using the crate for wrong discipline reasons. For example if you come home to find that your puppy has chewed on your favorite piece of wooden furniture, and you subsequently lock him away in a crate to ‘teach him a lesson’. This is poor use of a crate and considered unjust punishment. Your puppy has a different memory to that of a human and as such will not associate being locked away with chewing on the furniture. This will only exacerbate the problem in the long run.

Good crate discipline on the otherhand stems from an appropriate use of dog crate and is effective in administering a passive form of discipline on your dog. For example crating your dog for 8 hours while you sleep, or while you are at work can prevent an overly energetic and curios dog from destroying your furniture or other posessions. This form of crating is effective especially if your dog has been taken for an energetic walk prior to being crated.

What dog behaviour problems can a dog crate help fix?

Remembering that a dog crate needs to be used appropriately to be effective, there are a wide number of dog behaviors that a dog crate can help passively discipline within your dog. These behaviors include but are by no means limited to the following:

All aspects of house training
Toilet training
Teaching your dog not to chew on inappropriate objects (e.g. furniture, shoes, remote controls etc.)
Behavior around house guests (e.g. family friends, repairmen, other visitors etc.)
Increasing dog independence – reduces separation anxiety when you are not in the house allowing your dog to remain calm and collected whilst you are away
Decrease destructive behavior
Decrease fear and anxiety during times of panic (e.g. thunderstorms, howling winds, lightning etc.)

Where can I get dog crate?

There are so many different places that you can find a good reliable pet crate that you can use in crating your dog. All major pet supply stores should carry a wide range of different types of crates whether you are looking for a wire crate, a wooden crate that can be used as a side table, soft padded crates, to collapsible crates that are stored easily. Most good pet stockists will be able to order you in exactly what you are looking for. The problem with most pet retail stores however is that they will charge through the roof for these relatively basic dog crates.

If you like to be able to see and feel the dog crate before you actually purchase then a retail store will be ideal for you. However if you would like to save some dollars then their are alternative outlets to purchase a dog crate from. Many hardware stores and wholesalers may sell dog crates. These stores may be cheaper but the number of types of dog crates they supply will be limited, so you may not get exactly what you are looking for.

Another avenue for you to purchase a dog crate is online. If you shop around on the internet you are bound to find some fantastic dog crates that will meet all your needs and at a fraction of the cost of retail. We have taken the liberty to scour the web and find what we believe are some of the best deals on a huge range of different types of dog cages. Take a look at our dog crate products to see if we have covered something that will suit your needs!

What type of dog crates are available?

Just like dogs come in all shapes and sizes so too do dog crates come in all shapes and sizes. No matter what type of dog you have big or small, round or fluffy there will be a dog crate out there that will suit your puppy.

Some of the most common types of dog crates include:

What size of dog crate will I need for my dog?

If you remember, a dog crate actually represents a den for you dog and historically these dens were only big enough for the pack (family) of dogs living within that den. As such your dog crate only needs to be dig enough for your dog to lay in, stretch out and turn around. As a rule of thumb I would recommend buying a crate that is only large enough for your dog to stretch out and lay on its side while it is sleeping. Any bigger and house training will take a much longer period of time.

One particular problem arises when you look to buy a crate for your new puppy. Because your puppy is going to grow it is ridiculous to have to spent excessive amounts of money upgrading your dog crate as your puppy grows up. One way around this is to purchase a full size dog crate and purchase some handy dividers that can be used to block of areas of the crate until your puppy grows into a full size dog.

How much do dog crates generally cost?

The cost of a dog crate can vary greatly. More specifically you can expect to pay anywhere between $25 – 140 dollars for a quality crate for a small to large dog. While yes it may sound like a lot of money, however a good crate will last you for more than one loyal companion and it will quickly pay itself off in peace of mind and undamaged furniture, carpet and belongings.

There are some crates out there that are much more expensive and can be used to furnish your house. These crates can be a fantastic way to kill two birds with one stone by providing you with furniture for your house and a fantastic den for your dog. Take a look at our exclusive dog crate furniture for more examples of how these dog crates work.

Crating Do’s and Dont’s

When crating your dog take heed the following advice in the form of a list of do’s and dont’s

DO:

think of your crate as a positive for your dog. In time your dog will come to love it too
allow your dog out of the crate if it needs to use the bathroom. However if you know it doesn’t have to go, correct it’s behavior for whining or barking
let your dog out often enough so that it never has to soil it’s crate
clean the crate out on a regular basis, this can help prevent fleas and illness
teach your children that the crate is a special room fr you dog and that they should not bother your dog whilst it is in the crate
ensure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water and dry biscuits whilst in the crate

DONT:

use a crate if you leave your dog home regularly all day, some dogs may be able to tolerate it however most will not like the confinement for this period of time
punish the dog if it soils it’s crate. Remember that the last things dogs want to do is soil their main place of rest, it will be miserable enough that it has soiled its home and probably had no other choice
ever use the crate as punishment of your dog
leave your dog in the crate for excessive periods of time. Dogs need exercise and love to play, if you are home they should not be in the crate
put your dog in the crate just after it has eaten or drank a lot. It may feel uncomfortable as it will need to use the bathroom quickly after such events
put pillows, blankets or other such bedding items in the crate with the dog. Dogs unlike humans like a cooler environment, they would much rather stretch out on a cold hard surface. If your dog does seem uncomfortable you can buy tailor made dog crate mats made to fit your specific dog crate

What Next?

Hopefully now you are well informed about the benefits that a dog crate will offer you and your dog. If you have just purchased a crate or are purchasing a crate in the near future take a look at our article about crate training your dog.

If you are in the market for a new dog crate be sure to take a look at all of our different dog crate reviews. Or if you are wanting to deck your dog crate out with some cool new accessories, check out our dog crate accessories page.

If you want more information about any thing dog crate related don’t hesitate to contact us! We wish you and your family (including fido) all the best with your new dog crate!