How to Choose the Right Crate

Finding the right crate for your dog can be time consuming, but it’s time well spent!

What are you going to use the crate for?

Do you need a kennel to transport your dog to the groomer and the vet?  Then an inexpensive kennel from a major pet supply store or big box retailer will work for you.  Perhaps a harness, booster seat, or soft-sided kennel will work for occasional short trips.

Do you need a kennel for a long road trip?  Do your homework to ensure that you get a safe kennel in the right size.  Look for a crate company that crash or crush tests their products.  Do you need the kennel to be secured in a passenger seat, the cargo area of an SUV in as a dog box in the bed of a truck?  Make sure your kennel can be safely secured in the area you need.  Keep in mind that some states have requirements for restraining pets to avoid driver distraction.

Are you flying with your dog?  Rules and regulations vary across airlines, so make sure you plan ahead so you can get a crate that is compliant with your airline’s requirements.  These requirements can be strict and extremely specific, so do your research before purchasing a kennel for air travel.

Do you need a kennel for your home?  This is where Kennel and Crate can really help out.  Your dog deserves more than a basic wire crate.  Frankly, you do too.

Size matters!

A crate that is too small will be uncomfortable.  A crate that is too large can be unsafe or at the very least, not provide the secure environment a den provides.

To find the ideal interior crate length, measure your dog from the tip of the nose to the end of the tail. Add a few inches to allow for comfort. For the interior height, measure your dog’s height while they are sitting. Start at the floor and measure to the top of their head including their ears. Add a few inches to make sure you dog can sit comfortably inside the kennel. The depth of the kennel should allow for movement. A crate should be fairly cozy but not too tight. Your pup should have space to stand up, circle around, and lie down without obstruction.

Kennel and Crate builds each kennel to order, so we can build your perfect size.  Do you have multiple dogs?  Kennel and Crate builds single, double, triple and quad kennels.

Do you need extra functionality? Travel crates are fairly standard but a custom kennel from Kennel and Crate can incorporate storage.  We can add shelves, drawers, media cubbies, even a bookcase.

Extra Security

The material your kennel is made from is an important consideration.  Travel kennels can be made from plastic, metal or fabric. Nothing is chew proof.  Kennel and Crate kennels are made from wood but offer chew guards as a deterrent.

Quality matters

Not all kennels are created equal.  Read reviews before you order a kennel. Sort the reviews to look at the lower scores and look at older reviews.

For travel kennels, pay attention to safety features and strength.  Safety is the most critical detail for travel kennels.

If you are looking for a kennel for your home, there are many construction and design elements to consider.

Material type is important. If the kennel is primarily from Pine, other soft woods, plywood or particle board, run away. Ask how much the kennel weighs.

Doors should lie flat against the kennel when open, and not jut out into your living area.

Any metal on the kennel should be smooth. If the bars in the doors and windows is textured, snouts can get cut and teeth and paws can get snagged.

Barn doors should be fully secured at the top AND bottom. If you don’t see rails or other full length stops, the doors are not secure.

Kennels for home use should be delivered fully assembled to ensure structural integrity.

Look at what options are offered. If they only offer limited options, their expertise is likely limited.

Expect a fully detailed written estimate with interior and exterior dimensions listed.

Quality takes time, so ask questions about the construction if you are promised a custom kennel quickly.

Quality is expensive. If the kennel price listed is a bargain, ask questions about the construction.

Order standard single & double kennels online. Call/text 405-624-0062, email office@kennelandcrate.com, use the Connect tab or follow us on any social media @kennelandcrate to learn more!   We’re happy to help and we’d love to build a kennel for you.