Dogs appreciate appropriately sized crates
Much to the surprise of many dog owners, Fido enjoys his own cave. Many dogs find the cozy size of their crates to be comforting, especially amidst commotion or noise. They find solace in their little
If crates aren’ t used to confine dogs too long or too often, dogs appreciate the personal space. Dogs should be crated no longer than half of the day at a time and overnight. They need exercise and potty breaks during the day after eating. The pups also enjoy the toys and treats they get while inside their
Why are cages a good idea?
Dogs keep their living areas clean, so they try to avoid soiling their own spaces. A puppy with too much room in the crate will enjoy a suite with a bedroom and private bathroom. Confine them to their little bedrooms and move dividers to expand the size as your pup grows. (Be aware that a puppy eliminates every hour for its age in months.) Ex. A 2-month- old needs a potty break every two hours. Dogs should never be expected to go more than 8 hours without a break.
How do you know what size crate your dog needs?
Correctly sizing your dog’s crate is crucial. Crates are expensive, but you can migrate your puppy into a large crate if you make or buy dividers. This is especially helpful when crate training or house training.
Obviously, the dog needs to be able to stand and sit without bumping its head on the top. And they need room to stretch out on their sides and to turn around without being cramped. But they need to feel cozy, too, so don’t get a crate that’s too large.
How do you measure for appropriate size?
Length: The crate should be 2-4 inches longer than your adult dog will be from nose to tail base (not the tail). This will allow the dog to stretch out comfortably. Height: The height should be 2-4 inches taller than the pet standing or sitting with its nose up, whichever is higher. The width will be appropriate if the height and length are sized properly. Remember, get a crate for your full-size dog and partition it off for the puppy as it grows. Sometimes those dividers need to move every week!
An extra-small cage measures about 24 inches long. Larger cages reach 72 inches in length. Crates provide a cozy den for dogs from teacup chihuahuas to great Danes. With this in mind, do not go into the crate when your dog is inside. Dogs feel secure in their crates, especially as they age, and perceive anyone intruding as a threat.
A chart for the appropriate size for your breed can be found here. (https://apdt.com/pet-owners/crate-size/). But remember, this is a guide. Your dog might be larger or smaller than the average. For best results, consider the size of the litter’s sire and dam (parents).
What kind of crate is best?
Wire crates are collapsible and easy to clean because of the pull-out tray. After the dog outgrows its destructive phase, you can add a comfy washable bed. You might want to use an orthopedic dog bed, especially if you have a breed like a labrador that struggles with its joints. If your pet seems to want seclusion, you can provide a crate cover or blanket. Plastic crates are less expensive and durable. And they don’t collapse for transportation.
If you opt for a pre-owned crate, visit the home of the previous owner and inquire why the crate is available. You want a crate from a healthy dog. Then sanitize it with a cleaning solution recommended by your groomer or veterinarian.
You will find that your dog is more easily house trained in a crate and that Fido will find comfort in its own private master suite or den.
https://apdt.com/pet-owners/crate- size/
Find crates and ratings on-line.
By Beth Crosby