May lead to whining or crying in the crate
You should keep your dog’s crate in an area near people traffic so he feels he’s part of the pack. However, if your dog has a tendency to cry or whine while in the crate, a wire crate may be part of the problem. The advantage of allowing your dog to see what’s going on around him may create stress and feelings of separation because he can’t join in the fun. This can lead to whining and barking. A crate cover may help at the expense of reduced air circulation. Also, a chew toy or some treats are useful to keep your puppy or dog occupied while in his crate. A busy dog is a quiet dog.

Less insulation for smaller dogs and puppies
Again, the advantages of a wire dog crate can pose a problem depending on your particular dog. Puppies and smaller dogs will be better served by a crate that helps them retain body heat, particularly if you live in a colder climate.

Air movement and ventilation
A wire crate is well-suited for dogs with longer coats or if you live in a southern climate. Because the crate is completely open there’s plenty of air movement, which allows your puppy or dog to stay cool.

Divider panels and folding ability
Wire dog crates come in a variety of sizes and most offer divider panels. If you’re shopping for a puppy, you can buy a larger crate than he’s needs so he can still use it when he reaches his adult size. Considering a crate can be one of the more expensive items you’ll buy for your dog, this can save you money in the long run.

Once you’ve chosen the right dog crate for your pet, you can make it more inviting with a few simple accessories.

Bedding or Crate Pad
It’s an inexpensive item that can add an extra level of comfort. Be sure to choose bedding that’s both durable and washable.

Crate Cover
Crate covers make wire dog crates more den-like and give your dog extra privacy. They also block outside distractions, which can be useful if your dog barks or whines while he’s in a wire crate.

Why a Wire Crate?
A wire crate is recommended to allow your dog optimum visibility of her surroundings. Your dog will be most relaxed if she is sheltered but still able to view her surroundings without having to get up. She will rest longer and quieter. Wire crates are designed for proper ventilation. Illness can be caused during house breaking if puppies or dogs are forced to inhale urine odors. Complete ventilation will prevent this and many other ailments that can be caused from low ventilation. Wire crates are easy to move and store, and can be cleaned with soap and water. With proper care, a wire crate will last the life of the dog, therefore are more economical than plastic designs.

How Can a Crate be Used to Avoid Accidents?
Crate training is proven to be the fastest, most cost effective method of instilling “good dog” behavior. A dog’s natural instinct is to keep the area in which she rests as clean as possible. Most dogs are very resistant to being near their own waste and therefore will make an extra effort to control their own elimination when confined to a crate. By the owner encouraging elimination in the proper place immediately after a dog is released from the crate, the pet quickly learns when and where to “take care of business.” This is a proven method of house training recommended by nationally known trainers.

Important Note: Always take care to remove both collar and tags prior to your dog entering her crate. Allow your dog to explore the crate on her own. You can toss some of her favorite toys or treats inside and show interest in the crate to encourage her curiosity. Leave the door open during the introduction period. NEVER force your dog into her crate and ALWAYS praise her anytime she enters on her own.

Soon your dog will enter and exit the crate willingly. At that time you should close the door for a few seconds or a minute and remain close to the crate praising her while she is inside. Then, let your dog out in a calm and quiet manor, not making a big deal of it. You do not want the exit of the crate to be an excitable moment. This will make your dog want out of her crate rather than enjoying the time inside. If she barks or cries while inside her crate, reassure her and wait for her to settle down before allowing her out of the crate. You do not want her to associate negative behavior with being released from the crate.

Next to the training collar and leash, the dog crate is the proven training tool most recommended by professional dog trainers, groomers and veterinarians. Once accustomed to the dog crate, unfavorable behaviors such as house soiling, destructive chewing, digging, unnecessary barking, and howling can be avoided. Crate training is also an ideal system to help ease separation anxiety. Since the dog’s habits will be much easier to regulate by using the dog crate, discipline for misbehavior will be less necessary which will allow a stronger dog and owner relationship. Crate-trained dogs travel easier in their “den” since they feel secure. This sense of security is also helpful if a dog needs to stay at the veterinarian or groomer since the dog is already accustomed to being crated.

And, compared to the cost of replacing furniture, plants, carpet, and other personal items that may be destroyed when a dog is allowed to roam a household unsupervised, the expense of a crate is very economical.

Dogs are, by nature, den animals and feel secure in small, enclosed spaces. Most dogs will seek out a place in your home that will mimic a den. You will often find them sleeping under a table or desk. Dog crates make excellent dens and can serve as a refuge, a hangout and a bedroom. It is very important that the dog crate is never used as punishment – the crate must always be regarded as a safe and special retreat.

The most common misconception about a dog crate is that it is a cruel form of caging a pet. This is completely false, and in fact, a dog will actually find a crate to be a secure and safe sanctuary in the same manner as a wolf enjoys the comfort of a den for resting and eating.

If your pet has never been kept in a portable kennel or an enclosure, specific training is necessary for your pet’s safety. Any pet not specifically trained to be restricted may attempt to escape from this enclosure. This can cause serious injury to your pet or damage to the kennel.

1. Proper kennel size is very important. Your pet should have just enough room to stand up, turn around and curl up.
2. Select a permanent location in your home with enough space for the kennel and is in a room full of activity so your pet can enjoy his own “special” place while still being part of the family. Also, place an old towel or blanket with your scent on it inside for bedding. These steps will help your pet become comfortable with his new surroundings.
3. Be sure to remove the collars, tags, and leads from your pet before placing it in the portable kennel to prevent possible entanglement.

Your dog’s kennel provides several key benefits: it creates a “special” place for your dog, thus providing needed security and stress relief. This leads to more effective behavioral training and a happier pup. It is also a comfortable and safe environment for your pet while traveling – either long distances or quick trips to the vet. However, to enjoy these benefits it is essential that the kennel is NOT used as a form of punishment or as a long-term pet sitter.

While traveling as passengers in a car or plane, a portable kennel is essential for your dog’s safety. Never leave your pet unattended in a car.