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Features to Look for in a Dog Kennel Crate

"a healthy dog or puppy will bring years of joy"

The right dog kennel crate will depend on the size and breed of your dog and what the kennel will be used for. Dog kennels are not only great for training purposes but for many other uses, such as transporting your pet in an emergency or to keep him safe and secure while traveling in a car. Consider some of the following features in a dog kennel crate before choosing a carrier for your pet.

Size of a Kennel Crate

The kennel crate you choose for your pet should be comfortable but also fit your dog's size and breed to keep him secure and to avoid injury. Your dog should be able to stand up, lie down and turn around in his kennel comfortably. If you have a puppy consider how big he is expected to grow to avoid buying a second crate later in life; instead, you can buy a large crate and block off a portion of the kennel to keep your puppy in an area that is right for his size. If a crate is too large your dog is more likely to soil the kennel.

Material and Durability

Kennel crates are generally made of hard plastic or metal, and can be enclosed or more open. Proper ventilation is important to consider and will depend on how you are using the crate. Make sure the material is durable enough to withstand bumps if using the kennel for transporting your dog, and that the doors and hatches are secure. Consider how long your dog will be in the crate and how the crate will be used when deciding what material to choose.

Comfort and Hygiene

Owners should also look for kennels that are easy to clean, such as hard plastic crates that can be easily wiped down. If you are disinfecting a kennel, always keep your animal out of the crate after cleaning to prevent your dog from inhaling any chemical fumes. Any food and water bowls or toys should also be removed and cleaned. These extra accessories can be helpful to make the crate more comfortable and welcome to your dog when traveling or if used in crate training.

Portability

Many kennel crates have straps to secure pets during transport, while others are without straps, which is beneficial if you aren't planning on using the crate outside your home. However, straps can be helpful if you need to transport your sick or injured dog to a veterinarian. The size and portability of kennels should also be considered when it comes to storing kennels when they are not in use. Some kennels can be easily folded and stored while others come in one large piece and take up room when not being used.

Plane Travel

If you are planning on taking your dog on an airplane, either in the plane's cabin or the cargo hold of the airplane, the same factors should be considered while keeping in mind any airline rules when it comes to transporting animals. Size and weight must meet airline requirements, ventilation is essential and the crate must be sturdy enough to withstand bumps and movement.

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