Plastic Crate or Wire Cage?

Don't be put off by the idea of crating or caging your dog.  Most dogs instinctively take to crates or cages.  It gives them the sense of security their ancestors found in dens.  Introduce your puppy to a crate or cage as soon as possible.  Never use it to punish them.  It must always be their place to escape to...their sanctuary.

Plastic crates and/or wire kennels are both perfectly acceptable.  Each has their pros and cons.  The most important thing to consider is the size!  Wire cages can be purchased with divider panels.  That way you can buy the largest size you will probably need.  Your puppy can be confined to a smaller area at first and later you can expand the living space as your puppy grows.

Remember, you must consider how large your puppy is going to be.  The crate or cage you put him in now, most likely will be history in a matter of months!

Don't judge how content you would be in it.  Your dog is not looking for a palace!  Actually there is a greater sense of safety and security in the right size, rather than over sized crate or cage. 

Either should be large enough for your dog to be able to stand up with 3" - 4" of head room, turn around and lay down comfortably. They should not be too big, nor should they be too small.  You want it big enough where you puppy or dog will not be able to soil on one side, and lay down on the other.

By law, airlines require the plastic crates.  They also offer nervous dogs a greater sense of privacy and security.  They are easy to clean.  You can hose them out, tip them over and they dry in no time.  They are not as well ventilated, which may be a concern in warmer climates.

Wire kennels are great for the house.  They are well ventilated, yet you can always throw a cover, sheet or blanket over it to prevent your pet from being in a draft or being over-stimulated.  They fold down easily for transport.  They allow greater visibility, which may be a pro or a con depending your pet's personality!  You can clean them by hosing them out, but, you will need to watch for rust and rust stains eventually.  The good thing about them is, most come with a plastic floor tray you can simply slide out to clean.  Remember, you cannot use a wire cage to transport your pet on an airline.

So, consider which one will best suit your needs.  Perhaps you may need one of each...one for travel, and one for the house.

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