Dog crates have many uses including kenneling and dog crate training. But one of the most important reasons for buying a crate is for dog travel, as the crate provides a safe environment in the car.

Not all crates are the same though, so before you spend your hard earned cash here are some things for you to consider

Size

You’ll need a crate that comfortably accommodates your dog, but also one that fits in the back seat of your car. It would be pretty pointless buying a crate that you can’t load into your vehicle, while forcing your dog into a crate that is too small is both cruel and dangerous.

Don’t be tempted to buy a crate simply because it is the right size for the car. Your dog should be able to turn around easily but should not have too much space, or he may be tempted to “do his business” 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

For transportation, you’ll want to pick a crate that offers your dog the best protection in the event of an accident. This is undoubtedly the molded, plastic type of crate. A wire crate may be okay if you put in adequate padding, but the collapsible, vinyl type of “crate” offers no protection at all.

Hygiene

If you follow the advice above on how much space to give your dog, then your dog is unlikely to relieve himself in the crate. If it does happen though, you’ll want a crate that is easy to clean.

Fortunately, this applies to most crates. The plastic crates are particularly easy to clean and can normally be disassembled with a few simple clicks, then washed down and put together again.

View

Some dogs dislike being put into a closed space where they can’t see what’s going on around them. If this describes your dog then the answer is to use a wire crate, which is entirely open on all sides.

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 have their purpose but are generally unsuited for road travel purposes.

To read more about dog safety, dog care, dog breed info and other interesting dog info drop in at www.dogsanddogtraining.com

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