subject: Why Dog Owners Should Use Dog Crates [print this page] Lots of dog owners use crates for a variety of training reasons. Many of them use them to transport their dogs from place to place in as well. However, there are that many dog owners that also think dog crates are just cages and sway away from using them for any reason. These are the dog owners that need to know how a dog crate is beneficial to dogs.
In the times when dogs were wild and roamed the wilderness, the need for a den was imminent. This den served not only to protect them from predatory animals, but to also provide relief and security. This was the place that allowed letting down their guard and being comfortable and cozy. The den were usually dug by the dogs and they were only dug big enough to snuggle into with room to turn around in.
Choosing the right size of crate is going to depend on a few things. If you are thinking of getting one for a puppy, then you will need to consider how big that puppy will grow to be. This will save you money in having to but another crate later on. If you are going to use a crate for housebreaking reasons with a pup, then you should inquire about getting a dividing wall to place inside the crate. This will limit the space the pup has and will lessen the chances of him soiling his space.
Finding the kind of crate you need is easy. Check with your local pet stores or go shopping online. Many people choose the popular plastic crates. These types of creates fair well with any size dog and are great for those that travel by plane a good bit. Airlines accept the plastic crate and usually no other. You can choose between a lot of colors and sizes as well.
Metal crates are popular as well. If you attend dog shows, you have probably seen a good many of these being used there. These kinds of crates are open to the environment and would probably not serve the den needs of your dog. However, if you are going to be traveling to a place that will require you to restrain your dog, this would be the best kind of crate to have. In this way, you will still be able to have interaction while the dog is being restrained. You might consider placing a cover over this sort of crate for giving your dog the security feeling needed.
Some owners prefer wooden crates to the plastic and metal styles. Some of these crates double as an end table and are very stylish additions to your home. You can choose from materials like mahogany or chestnut. Many of these crates come with wood slats or you can get wire caging as well. This kind of dog crate will allow you to keep the decor of the room without adding a bulky plastic or metal crate into the scene.
The activities you plan to use crate for will help you in determining the type you need to purchase. If you do travel a lot and would like to have your dog along, a plastic crate would be the one you would need. If you do plan to attend dog shows with your dog, then a metal crate would probably be the best choice. For the stable home life situation, a wooden table crate would be the better choice.
Always keep in mind that crating your dog is not cruel and it should never be used as punishment. Your dog need to learn his crate is his own space. Once he learns to lover dog crates, you and he will have an easier time together.
