A dog crate should be on your list of priorities if you plan to have a dog or already own one. It is one of the most expensive and important things to buy for your dog, especially if the size of your dog is large. There may be no best crate to buy since it all depends on your preference, the behavior of your dog, and what you plan on doing. Most online stores sell these boxes and on their website and you can get a wide variety of dog boxes. Certain features, however, should be considered when investing in a crate for your dog.
Size
The crate you buy needs to fit the size and breed of your dog so that it is secure and there is no chance of injury. The box should allow the dog to lie down, stand up and turn around without feeling any discomfort. If you have a puppy, then consider the size it will grow to, so that you do not purchase a second crate later on. In such cases, the best thing is to buy a big-sized item and block off part of it, so the puppy is kept in an area suitable for its size.
Durability
The material of the crate is usually either hard plastic or metal. Depending on the way you are using the box, you have to ensure proper ventilation. Also, if you are transporting the dog to another place in a crate, the durability of the materials is of importance since it has to withstand bumps with the doors and hatches remaining intact. It is also wise to consider the time the dog will be within the crate when deciding on the material.
Hygiene
Hygiene is a vital factor at any point in time for any pet since you would not like your pet to fall sick simply because it has not been kept clean. Having this in mind, you need to look for a crate that is easy to wipe and clean. The other thing to note if you are planning to disinfect the crate is that the dog has to be kept away from the box to avoid inhaling chemical fumes. Ensure you remove all the toys, food or water bowls present.
Plane Travel
If you are planning an airplane trip with your dog, placing it in the cabin or cargo hold, you need to consider the related features of the crate while focusing on the airplane rules for animal transport. The box must be enough to make the dog feel comfortable but still be as per airplane requirements.
Keeping these features in mind when choosing a crate for your dog will help you select the right one. The dog will gradually enjoy being inside the box if it is the right size and feels comfortable.