| Why use a crate: | | | | too big, your puppy will have enough room to soil |
| When used properly and not abused, crates are the | | | | one side and sleep in the other, which defeats the |
| fastest and most humane method of housebreaking | | | | purpose of the crate. Buy a crate large enough to |
| dogs. Dogs are den animals that will instinctively seek | | | | accommodate your dog's full-grown size and get a |
| out a small, cozy place to rest for shelter and | | | | divider panel. This way, you can keep the one crate |
| security. Crates act on a dog's instinct to keep its | | | | and have it "grow" along with your dog. |
| den clean and unsoiled. Keeping your dog in a crate | | | | Accessories: |
| teaches him to "hold it" until he can go in an | | | | Always be sure to include appropriate toys and |
| appropriate place, which helps your puppy develop his | | | | treats in the crate. This will keep your dog occupied |
| bladder control. For older dogs, crates act as a | | | | and prevent your teething puppy from chewing on |
| "bedroom" where they can relax and escape the | | | | the crate's metal bars. It is also important to |
| hustle and bustle of kids, other pets, and everyday | | | | purchase crate bedding. A crate cover is great for |
| family life. Also, it's never too late to crate train! A | | | | lowering the number of outside distractions your dog |
| crate can help break bad habits that improperly | | | | sees, which can reduce barking and stress in the |
| trained dogs may have developed over the years. | | | | crate. A crate pad will be more comfortable than the |
| Plastic or metal? | | | | crate's plastic pan. Finally, a bumper like the one |
| Plastic kennels are good for travel, and are generally | | | | included in Pet Dreams Cratewear will help protect |
| the only method of containment permitted by airlines. | | | | your puppy from injuries caused by chewing or |
| Metal wire dog crates are ideal for home use, | | | | leaning against the crate's metal bars. |
| however. They are generally roomier and more open. | | | | For more information: |
| They're also sturdier, so they will stand up to your | | | | In addition to Cratewear, Pet Dreams provides a |
| pet's movement/ activity and be able to last as your | | | | wealth of Crate Training Tips, articles, and FAQs to |
| dog's permanent bedroom. | | | | help you crate train your dog. We've also recently |
| What size? | | | | launched Forums where you can discuss all aspects |
| A crate should only be big enough for your dog to | | | | of training with others and get advice from the |
| stand up, turn around, and lay down. If the crate is | | | | experts! |