A dog crate is one of the best ways to keep your pet safe in a proper place, and feeling at home. There are different types of crates of which are used widely all over the world. Plastic crates and wire crates both have their own benefits. The right choice for your dog will generally depend on the breed. Larger breed dogs tend to have less options for plastic crates. Wire crates tend to be better for most dogs for daily use because they can still see all around. Most of the plastic crates are really only designed for travel use.
Crates are important for house training and most dogs come to think of their crate as their home and are more than content to stay in it when they are by themselves or at night. Since dogs often get bored if they are out by themselves, the can be very destructive. Crates protect your house and give the dog a sense of comfort as well.
Plastic crates are generally used as the travelling kennels when you board your dog on to a plane or on to a ship and can also be used regularly at home it is mainly made of three pieces
1) The top piece
2) The bottom piece
3) The wire door
The top piece has several holes in it generally of the size of 1” or 1.2”, the bottom piece is totally solid so as to give comfort to the puppy the wire door is given so as to provide maximum amount of ventilation to the pet. They are designed to give the pet the maximum comfort and luxury at a reasonable price. There are also other variations but aren’t as common.
Wire crates have a plastic bottom tray that is removable for cleaning and tend to fold flat for storage. They have a door on the front when assembled and some also have a side door. They are easier to store than plastic crates, but tend to weigh more. They also will rust from spills, accidents and licking. Be sure to be comfortable with the latching mechanism. Some simply slide, others have a two step process to open and close. Over time they can become difficult to open and close. Usually this is because the dog has twisted the crate. You can usually put some pressure on it and twist it back to the right shape.
Dogs can destroy both types of crates. We have had dogs chew apart both medal and plastic crates. Dogs can also open crates sometimes. Hunting dogs especially can figure out ways of getting out of crates, and even opening doors in your house. Getting them used to crates as a puppy is an important factor. You may need more than one crate for different occasions. Experiment with dog beds to go with the crate you have. For some dogs this makes it home. For others it is one more thing to shred the stuffing out of. Go with something inexpensive to see what your dog does with a bed.
Everyone’s needs are different. We prefer to have wire crates in the house, and plastic for travel use. You will have to try one to see which your dog likes.