There are many occasions when a dog crate is a useful item to have.
But which one to buy?
The main thing to realise when buying a crate is that you really only want to buy it once. So you need it to be big enough for your puppy when she is fully grown. Your breeder should be able to give you an idea or if not an internet search will help. Ideally you want a crate that your dog will be able to stand up in with a couple of centimetres clear. For large dogs, you may find this makes the crate too big for other purposes (such as fitting in the boot of your car) in which case you may be able to get away with it being above your dog's shoulder height. They will still be able to stand but not lift their head.
Once you have determined size look for one which is well constructed and has front and side doors for flexibility, like the Straame Heavy-Duty Folding Dog Crate. These fold down for storage and are simple to collapse and put up.
How to crate train a dog
- Start early. The sooner the better
- Make the crate comfy. Put in a bed or blanket
- Tempt them in with treats, let them explore it with the door open
- When they are happy going in and out, put their food bowl in it and feed them in it
- As the dog starts becoming comfortable in the crate, start closing the door on them when they are occupied
- Increase the length of time the door is closed
- If you use a crate for time-out when your dog is over-excited then don't shout at them as you put them in. Use a calm tone of voice.
- Don't leave them in the crate for lon periods of time - build up slowly
- Ensure if you are leaving them, they have access to water
A crate can, and should be a safe, happy place for your dog. It will help keep them safe!