Why Buy a Crate for Your Dog?
As humans, we all like to have our own private space where we can relax and unwind. It should come as no surprise that our pets are no different. Having a space of solitude where they can recharge can keep your pup happy; therefore, a crate may be one of the best investments you can make for your furry friend. Dogs are den animals by nature, a crate can be a safe space for your fur baby and a helpful training tool as long as they are comfortable in it. The ideal dog crates offer them security and solitude. While there are various dog cage sizes to choose from, selecting the proper one for your pet is essential to having a pleasant experience from the start.
Why is Size Important?
When shopping for a crate, the number one factor to be aware of is size. Your dog may feel uncomfortable and trapped in its crate if not given enough space. Making them feel at ease in their crate can also help to minimize anxiety. Dogs, like humans, can suffer anxiety when put in stressful situations. A crate that is too compact may make them feel confined and agitated. The anxiety caused by an inadequately sized crate also makes crate training difficult since they will only experience discomfort when inside. Too much space, on the other hand, may raise the likelihood of crate accidents. An appropriately sized crate for your pooch will enable them to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Our fur babies may opt to enter their cages on their own when they are stressed or overwhelmed or just when they want some peaceful time alone. Your pup's little den should be a calm retreat for them. They should regard the crate with happy feelings and love spending time in it.
How Big Should a Dog Crate Be?
Here are the crate sizes we recommend at Cream Puff Labradoodles when bringing home a puppy:
Mini (15-30 lbs) - 24"L × 18"W × 19"H to 30"L × 19"W × 21"H
Medium (30-45 lbs) - 30"L × 19"W × 21"H to 36"L × 23"W × 25"H
Standard (45-60 lbs) - 36"L× 23"W × 25"H
If you would like a more specific sized cage to match your dog, you can measure your dog's height while standing (top of the dog's head to the floor) as well as the dog's length (tip of the dog's nose to the base of its tail) to determine the best size. Then, to find the optimal dog cage size, add 4 inches to the dog's dimensions. Make sure you keep these two tips in mind when searching for a crate;
Leave Room for Movement: Keep in mind- a crate and a kennel are two different things. When in a kennel, your dog is essentially in a playpen where they can run about freely. A crate serves a different purpose. Your dog only needs a little space in their crate to play about. However, they do still need enough space to ensure their comfort. The ideal-sized crate should give your dog enough room to turn around.
Size Up for Puppies: Consider whether your dog will grow in size. Although puppies use less space initially, they will require more space as they grow. If your dog is going to grow, investing in a bigger cage with dividing panels may be your best option. Dividers may be removed and replaced as your puppy grows into the crate.
Once you have the proper measurements and crate size idea for your fur baby, you can pick out a crate you believe will be most fitting for them- plastic, metal, fabric, etc. Then it is time to take the next big step; crate training!