Best Heavy Duty Dog Crates for Escape Artists
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When I first started transporting pets, I didn’t even consider the many types of crates I could use for transport. In fact, noticing the differences in crates wasn’t something I realized the importance of until about 6 months into my business.
Fast forward 5 years, and many transports later, I now have a much better understanding of not only the different types of crates, but why finding the best type of crate for your own pet’s needs is so important. Continue reading for my list of the best pet crates for your animals and the considerations to make when choosing each.
One of my favorite types of crates are the plastic sided crates. These seem to be a good middle ground between soft sided and wire crates. These crates come in many sizes from small to extra large, and offer more comfort and coverage for your pet. Particularly, these crates are good for pets who may become more anxious when uncovered, or who may find comfort in the overhead coverage provided by a crate with more closure. These crates also tend to be easy to clean, can easily be customized for your pet by adding a bed, bowl, or hanging water bowl to it, and are generally easy to find. These are great options for travel as well, and are great to have to carry your pet to the vet, on a trip, or as a back up to more traditional wire crates, which tend to be more common as everyday household crates. These are a great economic option for your pet whether you’re a new pet owner or an experience dog or cat parent.
Wire Crates are one of the most common types of crates and for good reason. These crates are affordable, easy to assemble and take down, and are a breeze to clean. Also because of their open design, they tend to not retain odors and stay cleaner than other crates. These crates are often used as everyday options for cats and dogs that may need crated daily while their owners are out and about. Much like the plastic crates, these are easy to make comfortable for your pet by adding a bed, food and water bowls, and provide more air flow during hot months. However, unlike the plastic crates discussed above, these crates can cause increased anxiety as your pet has more visibility and may become agitated while being in one if they see you while they are crated. However, these crates tend to be great options for cats and dogs that may need the structure of a crate but aren’t easily agitated by seeing their owners while crated. These crates do tend to rust over time as well and it is important to note that these crates can be easier for pets to break out of because of their structure. However, overall, these crates can be a great option.
Soft-sided crates are often the most comfortable option for your pet. These crates are popular among pet owners as they are lightweight, cheap, and easy to carry. They tend to provide the most comfort for your pet and take up the least amount of space generally. However, these crates do have their flaws. Specifically, soft-sided crates are often the most difficult crates to clean. They also tend to last a shorter amount of time because of their soft interior and exterior. These crates are also not a good option for cats or dogs that like to scratch, chew, or may try to break out of their crate as these are easy to create holes in. These crates tend to be a good option for short travel and for pets that don’t need to be frequently crated.
The most expensive option on our list, these crates have a high price point for good reason. These durable, collapsable, and well-ventilated crates are truly a luxury crate option for pet owners. These crates are designed to provide a safe crate to decrease the likelihood of escape by your pet, while still provided a comfortable and calming environment for your cat or dog. These crates have many ventilation holes to allow your pet to feel more comfort by increased air flow, however the sturdy aluminum design creates a more secure crate. These crates also are easy to fold up and store, taking the hassle out of trying to find space for your crate when you don’t need it. These crates tend to be great options for highly anxious cats or dogs that have been able to escape from other crates. The best part about these crates though? They come with a lifetime warranty. These crates, while pricier than standard crates, are truly a top option for pet owners. This one is very similar to Impact’s dog crates but you can check out the real deal here.
As a pet owner, it is easy to think all crates are created equally. We hope this article has given you more insight into the differences in crates and the importance of finding the crate that fits your and your pup’s needs!
What kind of crate is your favorite for your pet? Let us know down below!
Getting a new cat? Congratulations!! Of course, cats make great pets but are you wondering what you should expect before bring your new fluffy friend home? Check out our Complete Guide for New Cat Owners!