Best Types of Dog Crates for Puppy & Dog Training

Dog crate training can be an efficient and effective way to house train a puppy. Puppies do not like to soil their resting/sleeping quarters if given adequate opportunity to eliminate elsewhere. Temporarily confining your puppy to a small area strongly inhibits the tendency to urinate and defecate. However, there is still a far more important aspect of crate training. If your puppy does not eliminate while she is confined, then she will need to eliminate when she is released, i.e., she eliminates when you are present to reward and praise her.

Sample of dog crate package for puppies.

When used correctly, dog crates can keep your dog and house safe when you are not able to supervise, help with potty training puppies, and can be used as a safe means of transport. Your dog's crate should be just large enough for him to stand up and turn around in. If your dog is still growing, choose a crate size that will accommodate his adult size. Block off the excess crate space so your dog can't eliminate at one end and retreat to the other. Your local animal shelter may rent out crates.  By renting, you can trade up to the appropriate size for your puppy until he’s reached his adult size, when you can invest in a permanent crate.

TYPES of Crates:
Wire:
   - dog can see out of and feels part of household activities
   - is available in fold-up suitcase styles to help with portability
   - has a removable tray for ease of cleaning
Plastic / Enclosed:
   - more "cave-like" - harder to see out of and feel a part of the household
   - best for shipping/traveling - these are what I have in my vehicles for my dogs
   - contains hair, drool, pees/poos, vomit, dirt, water, mud
   - harder for clever dogs to escape from

Mesh:
   - not usually used for home crating, because it can be easily destroyed
   - dog MUST be comfortable in a crate
   - easily destroyed if dog has a tendency towards destruction
   - very lightweight (popular for dog show people)

Soft Crates:
   - also not usually used for home crating, because it can be easily destroyed
   - good for sick pups or experiencing separation anxiety
   - excellent for traveling pups
   - very lightweight (popular for dog show people)

Soft dog crates in many sizes.

Wooden Dog Crate:
   - more elegant and sturdy crates
   - usually compliments home decoration so you don’t have to hide
   - some are not easy to clean up so it is good for well trained pups and dogs
   - heavier than usual crates but very comforting

A designer end table wooden dog crate.

CHOOSING A SIZE OF CRATE FOR YOUR DOG:
Puppies should have just enough space to turn around and lie down - if the crate is too roomy, the puppy may eliminate at one end and live at the other. Because most budgets can't afford to get a crate every time the pup grows larger, you should get an appropriate size for an adult and make it smaller with a divider (some crate manufactures make one, or you use a piece of plywood, etc cut to size & wired in) - making sure your modifications are completely safe for the pup. Best type of dog crates for growing pups is the Life Stages dog crate that can be easily adjusted to into smaller or bigger space. Adult dogs should at least have enough room to stand up straight and somewhat stretch out when they lay down.

Uses of Pet Yard XT Pet Gate Enclosure by North States

The Pet Yard XT Pet Gate Enclosure by North States is portable yet durable and versatile pet enclosure cage with many use. With capacity of covering an area of 18.5 square feet, it can be set up anywhere, indoor and outdoor to contain pets and toddlers or enclose anything to keep pets and children reaching it.

Can be installed, indoor and outdoor.

Easy to assemble.

Portable for easy storage or transport.

Uses of Pet Cage Enclosure:
• Contain Pets & Children. With height of 6", you can ensure pets and toddlers are safe inside the enclosure.
• Gate. The 6 interlocking panels can with individual size of 30" long x 26" high can be assembled and install in any openings.
• Barrier. Enclosure anything that fits inside its 18.5 square feet diameter can keep pets and children reaching inside the enclosure such as Christmas tree.
• Outdoor Gate or Enclosure. Since can be assembled and disassembled anywhere, you can do anything freely outside without supervising much your pets or children inside it.
• Use for any Environment. Pets or children can play even on muddy environment as the enclosure is washable and easy to clean.

Fold and Carry Solutions Side by Side Dog Crates

The Fold and Carry Side by Side Dog Crates are the Toughest Dog Crates Made. The Side by Side Crates were designed for use in the rear os SUV's and Vans. These extra tough dog crates have closely spaced wire to hold up to extra heavy use. The best is that they are a Fold and Carry Crate, so there are no Pins needed in the assembly. These crates set up in seconds, fold down in seconds, travel easily and are easily stored. Historically pins are used to secure the 4 corners of the dog crate and are cumbersome to use and store.

Click for help on selecting right size of dog crate.

Solutions Series Stackable Crates	Ovation Single Door Dog Crates	Midwest iCrate Folding Dog Crates	Life Stages Folding Dog Crates
Fold and Carry Solutions Side by Side	Midwest Double Door iCrate Folding Dog Crate	Life Stages Double Door Folding Dog Crates	Select Triple Door Folding Dog Crates