Dog crates, including wooden dog crates, are a great idea. Whilst some maintain that to crate your dog is cruel, there are many reasons why a crate for your dog is a great idea. And wooden dog crates make some of the best.Why would you want to crate a dog? Well if you think about it there’s good reasons to do so. All dogs are a result of their breeding. They are descended from thousands of years of wild dogs, specifically wolves, and have instincts that are derived from all those generations of wild dogs.One of the instincts that wild dogs have is to find a den to sleep in. Wolves don’t generally sleep in the open unless forced to, they prefer to find a small den where they are out of the elements, dry and comfortable. A den is the dogs own place, and they sleep and raise their puppies in a den.What is a dog crate but a dogs den? It’s his own place, his place to sleep, and dogs love having their own place just like you do. It’s good practice to buy your dog his own crate right from the time you get him, and he’ll love it and use it all his life.So if dog crates are a good idea then why would wooden dog crates be good dog crates?There are many different materials that can be used in making crates. There are hard and soft ones, and there are crates with open sides, with slats, and totally enclosed sides. Generally you should choose a crate that isn’t too small for your dog, but isn’t too large as well. The dog should fit inside comfortably, but it’s not necessary for him to have lots of space inside. Remember, wild dogs had small dens.Some dog crates are a bit suffocating, especially in hot weather. They often only have ventilation from the door at the front, the sides are fully enclosed. But if you live somewhere where it gets hot and humid, you need good ventilation. Both for the comfort of your dog and to dissipate any smells.Wooden dog crates are usually made with wooden slats on the sides, so have plenty of ventilation.And there are also crates that are made of soft materials. Whilst it might sound nice to give your dog a nice soft place to sleep, they have problems. They can be hard to keep clean, and in the event that your dog spoils his crate, which can happen even with the best trained dog in the wrong circumstances, they are difficult to clean and remove the smell.A wooden crate is easy to clean, well ventilated and if you really want to give your dog something soft to sleep on put a nice blanket in there for him, and you can then remove his blanket and wash it from time to time.And wooden dog crates look great too, the best ones are like a piece of furniture.So if you’re thinking of getting your dog a treat, then treat him to a wooden dog crate. He’ll love it.
{FirstReview}

Dogs, like their wild cousins, wolves, are naturally den animals. If introduced correctly, wire or plastic dog crates provide a sense of security – a refuge where your dog can go whenever he needs to get away from the high activity level of your home, or just wants some peace and quiet. Reasons to purchase a Dog Crate House training: It is a dog’s natural inclination toward dens that makes a dog crate so useful to house train puppies. Since puppies will not normally soil an appropriately-sized ‘den,’ crates are extremely effective for helping puppies gain control over their bladders. They help reduce the number of accidents you will have to clean up, and cut in half the time it takes to teach puppies where they are supposed to relieve themselves. When it comes to house training a new puppy, there is nothing that makes the training go faster or easier than a puppy crate. Placed in a crate that is just the size they need to lay down and no more, house training is often completed in 10 to 14 days. Protecting the puppy and your house: Dog Crates are useful during the puppy period as a way to protect your home from the mad dashes that knock over the plants and furniture, chewing teeth, and generally uncontrollable behavior. Dog Cages can keep puppies from forming bad habits when they are not under a watchful eye. As an adult, the crate will be just as useful. If puppies are introduced to a crate correctly, they will not resent them, and most will actually consider them their private hideaway spot. Traveling: Traveling with pets, be they puppies or adults, is safer and easier when you use a crate to control them. Plastic and wire dog crates are both very good products for dogs and cats. Today’s wire crates offer convenience and versatility features that usually make them a better choice for most pet owners. Advantages of Wire Dog Crates Many wire crates are collapsible, Fold & Carry styles, making them easier to store and transport. Wire dog crates can be sized to your growing dog with removable divider panels that expand living space. Wire dog cages are easier to clean — particularly crates with the new, seamless-style polyethylene floor pans. Wire crates offer better ventilation. Wire crates provide more and better visibility for your pet. Advantages of Plastic Dog Crates There are, however, instances when plastic crates are a sensible choice. If you plan on traveling with your pet by plane, plastic crates are required by law. Also, some owners feel plastic crates provide a greater sense of security and privacy for their pets. This quiet den-like refuge is good for high activity level households, particularly those with young children. However, a blanket or cage cover placed over a metal crate can provide the same result. Dog Crate size Especially if you are using the dog crate to house train your puppy, do not make the common mistake of buying one that is too large for your puppy. If it is too spacious, your puppy will eliminate in a ‘remote’ corner. Buy a puppy crate you will only use for training, or buy one that you can use throughout your dog’s life and add divider panels when the dog is smaller to reduce the area to the appropriate size. The right size crate is one in which your pet can lie down, turn around, and have three to four inches of extra head space when sitting or standing. While the right-sized crate may seem too confining or too small to you, it is not for your dog. As mentioned above, divider panels can be used in wire crates to adjust their size. If you decide on a plastic crate, understand that you may need to purchase a bigger one later as your puppy grows, since it must be sized to the puppy to ensure successful training. If you feel uneasy about crating your dog, we strongly encourage you to talk to your veterinarian, professional trainers, or other pet owners who have used crates. Anyone who knows dogs will know the value of crates.
{FirstReview}

There are many different dog crates on the market today, but only two main types of dog crates: plastic and wire kennels. So, you have a new puppy, what type of crate is best for you? Three years ago we got a Labrador Retriever puppy. We had never crate trained a puppy, but knew other people who had and were happy with the results. We bought a large plastic crate because we knew our puppy was going to grow. After getting through about three days of whining, we had a puppy who considered his crate his place of refuge, his den and home. When he was about one year old, we bought a large wire crate. Through the years we have used both dog crates for different reasons. We keep the wire crate on the back porch and use it whenever needed, which isn’t very often anymore since Buddy normally sleeps inside. But when he is outside, it is not unusual to see him lying in his crate. Whenever we traveled in our suburban, we would use the plastic crate. Though the plastic crate is now a tight fit for Buddy, it still works well for travel. He lays back there quietly and we never here a peep out of him. Without going into any detail, lets take a quick look at the pros and cons of both types of dog crates. Advantages of wire dog crates: That they allow your dog to see what is going on around them – allows them to feel like part of the family. Are well ventilated so it allows plenty of air flow for your dog to stay cool – great in a warmer climate! Are collapsable for easy storage, and can be broken down quickly and easily. They are easy to clean with their slide out tray. Especially nice if your puppy has an accident, the wire bottom keeps your puppy out of his mess. Last, many wire crates offer dividers. This can save you money by only having to buy one crate that will last your puppies growing growing months. A divider panel that can be adjusted as your puppy grows.Disadvantages of wire dog crates: May lead to excessive whining and crying (greater visibility can be a pro or a con!). Not airline approved Less insulation than a plastic crate – problem if you live in a colder climate! Can be heavy, especially the larger ones. This can be a pain when traveling.Advantages of plastic dog crates: Most are airline approved Provide better insulation for maintaining body heat – especially important for puppies, short haired dogs or if you live in a colder climate. More privacy so it can cut down on whining since there is less to distract you puppy. Normally lighter than a wire crate. On most of them the top will come off for storage, or for allowing the bottom of the crate to be used as an open dog bed.Disadvantages of plastic dog crates: Plastic can trap smelly odors over time that are hard to eliminate. Harder to clean than a wire crate. Do not fold flat for easy storage. Reduced ventilation and air circulation – especially bad if you live in a warm climate. If your dog really likes being around people, a plastic dog crate can create feelings of isolation.So, what is best for you, plastic or wire dog crates? Only you can answer that question. After reading through the advantages and disadvantages of each type of crate, you have probably realized that what may be an advantage for one family or type of dog, is a disadvantage for another. So, consider what breed of dog do you have or are you planning to get? Some dogs like moments of privacy, while others want to feel part of the family at all times. Where do you live, what is the prevailing climate and will your dog mostly be outdoor or indoors? What type of coat does your dog have? Will you be traveling a lot? Make a list, answer these questions and any others that may be applicable, and make a wise choice the first time around. It will save you money, and give you a happier dog.
{FirstReview}

You are bringing home a new family member – this one with four legs, not two – and he will need a place to sleep.

Everyone needs a space to call their own. Managed properly your dog’s crate will become his room, a cosy place he goes for privacy. Think of it like a toddler’s cot or playpen.What must I know about puppies and dog crates?

Growing puppies alternate between periods of activity and sleeping. As long as you have a regular schedule of toileting, feeding and exercise, your puppy will be happy to use his dog crate for a bed.

Just don’t expect your puppy to stay in his crate unless he is sleeping: remember he needs lots of love and attention. If you intend to keep him in his crate for long periods perhaps you need to re-consider whether you are able to commit to a dog right now.How will older dogs and dog crates work?

If you have an older dog you think you may like to crate – perhaps you are giving a new home to an older animal from a refuge shelter – you can still happily use a dog crate as a bed.

Let him investigate the crate. Just as with a puppy, put in soft bedding and a treat, and let him get used to things while the door remains open. Once he is accustomed to his crate you will most likely find he will take himself off there to sleep or to get away from noisy children or visitors.What should I put in my dog’s crate?

Put washable bedding – perhaps a favorite blanket – in the crate to make it comfortable. Put the favorite toy of the moment in as well and perhaps a rawhide bone to chew on.

I have found my dog will happily chew her rawhide bone as she is dropping off to sleep in her crate and again when she wakes. Especially first thing in the mornings this can give me a much appreciated extra fifteen minutes of sleep!

It is a good idea to give your dog some treats when you put him in his crate, to reinforce positive feelings: a little snack before he settles down to sleep would go down well.

If your dog wears a collar make sure you remove it before he goes into the crate. Dogs have choked to death when their collar or Id tags have caught on the crate’s bars. A good idea is also a crate bumper, which is very similar to a cot bumper.How can using dog crates for beds help toilet training?

Puppies have an instinctive desire to keep their sleeping area clean. Using a crate takes advantage of this and helps your puppy learn to control his bladder between trips outside. He will have accidents, of course, but by using a dog crate as a bed and combining it with a regular toileting, feeding and play schedule, toilet training will be quicker and less stressful – for everyone involved!

Just remember never to use the crate as a form of punishment. If you shout at your dog or smack him and then put him into his crate he will see his crate as a place to be feared: those associations are the last thing you want to create.How big should my dog’s crate be?

You don’t want your puppy to toddle off into a corner of his crate to go to the toilet, so get a crate with a divider. This can be moved as he grows, and discarded once he is grown and/or completely housetrained.

If you are getting a dog crate as a bed for a dog that is already fully grown, make sure the crate is big enough for him to stretch out, stand up and turn around comfortably.What type of dog crate should I buy?

A wire crate is a good option if you’re buying a dog crate for a bed. It is a good idea to get a crate bumper for comfort and safety. Many dogs also prefer a covering over the back and perhaps the sides of the crate to give them a greater sense of privacy. This doesn’t have to be expensive: we have a blanket draped over our dog’s crate.

Using a dog crate for a bed doesn’t mean that you can’t be stylish as well. There are many crates that are both comfortable for your dog and will fit with any décor. Check out the wicker-look versions, or the very upmarket Bauhaus, and you will never think of crate and cage in the same sentence again!

If you want a dog crate for traveling by airplane you will need one which is approved by the airlines. These will generally be molded plastic, and are lightweight and portable. Look for a crate which has a carry handle and which you can collapse for storage when you get back home. Always check with the airline you intend to travel with, as their regulations may vary.Dog crates for beds: “my” place

Some of us initially balk at the idea of putting a puppy or even a grown dog we love very much into what can be perceived as a cage. However, used properly your dog’s crate will come to be seen by him as a place of comfort and privacy: a place of his own to go to when he wants to sleep, or just wants time-out.
{FirstReview}

I am amazed by how many people are unaware of the choices available today in their search for the right dog crate for their beloved dog.    When a lot of people think of a dog crate, the first thing that comes to mind is a wire dog crate.  Today there are many alternatives to wire dog crates if you would prefer to have a more stylish crate.  Although a wire dog crate can look aesthetically pleasing in your living area.  Simply adding a dog crate cover can dress up your dog’s wire crate so it will blend in with your decor.  There are colors of dog crate covers to compliment just about every decor.   Soft side dog crates are the most portable.  They’re light weight and easy to transport.  You can easily move from one room to another if you don’t want it to be seen by your guests.  It’s easy to take along when you travel too.  Most soft side dog crates fold away flat and many are stackable.  These are not suitable for dogs with a history of chewing or puppies in the chewing stage.  If you need a crate for your puppy, it’s best to start with a wire dog crate until you get to know his behavior patterns.  Wicker dog crates are another fine alternative to a wire crate.  They are stylish and dogs love them.  Most wicker crates boast an attractive rattan finish that also blends well in any decor. Rubber feet keep these dog crates in place and protect floor surfaces.  Unfortunately, wicker dog crates are not suitable for puppies or dogs with a history of chewing.  They will more than likely try to chew their way out of the wicker crate.  Aluminum designer pet den and dog crate furniture is another excellent alternative. Lovely aluminum dog crates make for unique dog beds that double as functional, attractive tables to fit your home decor. No more dog crate covers, these round puppy beds are sturdy end tables attractively designed to function as small dog beds and dog crates, making for stylish designer dog furniture that doubles as human furniture, too. Another beautiful alternative to wire crates are wooden dog crates.  Most of the wooden dog crates double as fine furniture.  Most of them look just like end tables.  In fact many are called dog crate end tables.  They’re a stunning addition to your home and pet ownership.  Most of your friends would be surprised when you tell them it’s actually a dog crate!  I wouldn’t recommend wooden dog crates for puppies or dogs with a history of chewing.  They will more than likely try to chew their way out and damage your fine piece of furniture.  Then Rover will really be in the dog house!
{FirstReview}

A dog crate is a metal and plastic cage for your dog to sleep in or be in while you are away, the crate helps give your dog a secure place to live while in your home and a place to retreat to when things get a bit to hectic as they do in many family homes today.

Crate training is a very popular and effective technique for teaching your dog right from wrong; this method includes teaching rules of eliminating, sleeping arrangements, and keeping your dog from being destructive when you are out amongst many other benefits.

To crate train you must choose a correctly sized crate that your dog or puppy will be able to grow into with time and they will not be too cramped or have too much space. If your dog has a crate that is too small they won’t want to live there or go there and if the crate is too large it leads to eliminating problems.

You should make your dog feel as comfortable as you can in their crate; this should include putting a bowl of water with your dog in their crate, a nice easily cleanable blanket and put them in an area that is widely used by the family so they always feel part of what is going on.

When you are out, your dog can be closed in their crate to ensure common bad behavioural problems don’t happen while you are out such as chewing, biting and eliminating in the house. Be sure not to keep your dog in their crate for longer than about 4 hours and to let them go to the toilet on a regular basis.

Dogs will naturally not want to eliminate in their place of sleep so as you dog gets used to its new sleeping area it will want to go to the toilet only when they are let out so be sure to take them to their appropriate place for eliminating when they are let out, then reward them for behaving in the correct manner.

Always reward your dog for using the crate in the correct way and be sure all members of the family know that the dog should not be pestered in their crate. As long as this rule is followed then you won’t go far wrong and you will begin to notice great improvements in your dog’s behaviour immediately.
{FirstReview}

Amazon.com

Designed for travel and indoor or outdoor use, this portable soft-sided dog crate offers an ideal option for transporting or safely containing pets. The unit’s black PVC mesh door and side and back window screens provide pets with proper visibility and ventilation, while its zipper lock secures the mesh door and prevents accidental opening. The crate also includes a machine-washable, ultra-soft, synthetic sheepskin mat cover to ensure interior comfort. With easy “pop- (more…)

Midwest iCrate- Designed completely around the safety, security and comfort of you Dog. The iCrate Single door dog crate sets up easily with the fold and carry configuration that requires no use of tools and can be completed by almost anyone. The dog crate comes to you equipped with every feature you can think of; a composite plastic pan for easy cleanup in the event of an accident, two plastic carrying handles to move the dog crate from one location to another comfortably, Safe (more…)

MIDWEST Universal Crate Casters(2Pk)-The MIDWEST Universal Crate Caster is designed to fit most wire crates by attaching to the intersection of any two cross wires. The casters provide portability and ease of movement with easy rolling, locking casters and come packed with two casters in each blister card. Why two per pack? MIDWEST suggests that you use only four casters on crates 30″ or smaller, however on crates 36″ and higher six casters maybe neccessary inorder to support th (more…)

Amazon.com

Whether starting with a new puppy or starting again with an adult dog, this single-door metal dog crate cuts housebreaking time in half and reduces behavioral problems. The unit provides safe and secure slide-bolt latches, a durable satin-black electro-coat finish, and 1-1/2-by-5-inch mesh for visibility and proper ventilation. In addition, it assembles in minutes and features sturdy corner drop-pin construction. An ABS-composite plastic pan for easy cleanup is sold s (more…)