One of the accessories no dog owner can afford to be without is a dog crate. This versatile receptacle has many uses, one of the most important of which is an enclosure for safely transporting your dog.

Before you rush out to buy a dog crate, though there are some of the important things to consider.

Size

You need to consider the size of your dog as well as the available space in your vehicle. You’re first consideration should be a crate that will safely and comfortably accommodate your dog. But you’ll also need to make sure that the crate fits into your car.

Don’t ever buy a crate that is too small, just because it fits your car. Your dog should always have enough space to lie down and turn around. Not much more than that though or the dog may “go” in the crate.

Ventilation

Be sure to buy a crate that has adequate ventilation, because dogs overheat quite easily, especially in warm weather. This is particularly important if you have a short-faced breed, like a Pekingese or a Bulldog.

Protection

There are 3 types of crates – the moulded plastic variety, the wire “cage”, and the vinyl “carry bag”. Of these, the hard plastic case is preferable for transporting your dog as it provides the highest level of protection.

Hygiene

A dog won’t normally “go” in his crate, unless he has too much space to move around (as described above). However, accidents do happen, and when they do, you need to be able to clean the crate out.

Fortunately, most crates are designed for easy cleaning. The plastic crates are usually very easy to take apart, then wash down and re-assemble.

View

Some dogs become stressed when put into a confined space, especially if they can’t see out. For these dogs the best option is to use a wire crate, as it allows the dog a 360 degree view and probably doesn’t feel like being in a crate at all.

Dog crates make it possible to safely transport your dog by car, but some are just better at to the job than others. Plastic crates offer the best solution for safety, are easily cleaned, and suitable for small to medium dogs.For bigger dogs, or dogs that become stressed in small spaces you can use a wire crate. This still provides protection although not as much as a plastic crate, so compensate by putting in extra cushioning.

Soft crates are not an option for transporting your dog as they provide little or no protection.

Want to read more about dog safety, dog care, dog grooming and other useful dog info? Visit http://www.dogsanddogtraining.com

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Filed under: Pets Advice

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