Like all family members, your dog should have a room of their own, where they can go to sleep, unwind, or relax. Dog cages offer all the benefits of a bedroom in a convenient space that can be moved as needed.
In this article, we’ll teach you about what precisely a dog crate is and give you some advice on the best ways of using your pooch’s personal space, as well as where to place it.
What Is A Dog Cage?
A dog cage is a wire container made using wood or metal that is designed to simulate a canine’s natural den. The cage can become a safe household haven for your pup, giving them a designated place to enter when feeling scared or anxious. Enclosed spaces provide dogs with a feeling of security and help them relax when properly used.
Adding a dog cage to your home has many benefits. For example, you can reduce the stress your pet feels when faced with fireworks or thunderstorms by providing them with a protective place to hide. Cages also make for great napping spots for your dog by giving them some privacy while they snooze.
If you enjoy traveling, a dog cage can be extremely helpful when bringing your furry friend along for the journey. Cage-trained pets will feel comfortable during the ride and won’t be a distraction to the driver. Placing a crate in your vehicle is beneficial for shorter trips as well, such as bringing your pup to the park or taking them to the vet.
When to use a dog cage
While dog cages offer your four-legged companions a constant comfy spot to de-stress, there are also specific instances when you ought to use the cage. Sometimes, your pooch may partake in destructive actions around the house, so cage training can prevent and eventually eliminate unwanted behaviors from your pet.
Cages are also handy for potty training your pup. Dogs typically like to avoid using the bathroom where they sleep, which helps your pooch learn to hold and strengthen their bladder and bowels while inside the cage. The cage also prevents unmonitored access to the home when you’re sleeping or away from the house. Giving your pup a designated sleeping spot will also reduce night-time wandering.
Using a cage is a good idea for introducing your pet to unknown environments. Their cage is a familiar location they can trust while learning to adjust to their new home after moving. If you’ve adopted a rescue dog, giving them a cage may build their confidence and social skills, as they have their own personal territory.
Where to put a dog cage
Your canine’s cage should be considered a relaxing spot for your dog, instead of a punishment, so it’s a good idea to place the cage in areas where household members usually hang out when first introducing your pooch to their cage. Living rooms and bedrooms are ideal locations for the cage, rather than isolated parts of the home, like the garage or basement.
This being said, there are occasions when you should consider moving your pet’s cage into quieter sections of the house. Inviting strangers into the household and hosting social events like parties may cause your pooch to feel anxious and uncomfortable. Placing the cage away from the action can give them a safe space to retreat to if they feel overwhelmed.
When finding the right spot to set up your dog’s cage, look around the area to ensure there aren’t any harmful objects nearby. Their cage shouldn’t be placed next to air conditioning vents, fireplaces, or radiators. The ideal environment for your pup’s cage is somewhere that isn’t under direct sunlight, and is instead in a location with moderate temperatures.
What to put in a dog cage
Putting items in the cage can make your dog feel more comfortable and can reinforce healthy habits. Add durable chew toys to the cage to give your pooch something to bite on, especially if they’re still teething. Many dogs like to gnaw on objects as a relaxing way to pass the time, so the toys will offer a better alternative to biting the cage.
Dog beds and blankets may also be placed in the cage to create the ultimate snooze space for your furry friend by giving them warmth and support. The extra layer of support will provide additional comfort to elderly dogs with joint issues. If you’re potty training your pup, you may want to get a bed that’s easy to wash in case any accidents occur.
Another helpful item for your dog cage is a divider. The size of your crate might be too large to train your puppy effectively, so inserting a divider will allow you to adjust the interior and provide your pooch with an enclosure they feel protected inside.
