Differences Between Pet Containment Systems
If this is the first time you’re shopping for dog crates you may
find it a little complicated. You may have noticed already that
the use of the word kennel can be somewhat confusing. So before
making a final selection it's a good idea to learn about the
differences between some pet containment systems. Equipped with
this information you'll be ready to choose the best crate for
your dog.
How Can I Tell The Difference Between Dog Crates, Dog Kennels &
Pet Carriers If They're All Called Kennels?
A “kennel” is a very general term meaning a place where dogs are
bred or kept. By its very definition it can be used to describe
a broad range of pet containment products such as pet carriers,
dog crates, pet exercise pens and outdoor pet kennels.
For example, a wire kennel and a hard plastic kennel sound very
similar because both are called kennels. In some ways they are
very different. Depending on how you plan to use it there are
certain features that you'll need it to have. This is why it’s
very important to focus on the features that you need. Only
after carefully reviewing the features of a specific model can
you be certain that it will adequately fulfill all your needs.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
A wire dog crate or kennel is designed to safely contain your
pet. But, it’s not designed to be picked up and moved around
with your pet inside it. Although available in soft-side models,
soft crates are usually not referred to as kennels.
A hard plastic carrier or kennel is designed so that your dog
can safely travel inside the carrier. Pet carriers also come in
soft-side models. Soft pet carriers are not usually referred to
as kennels.
Some hard plastic pet carriers make ideal dog crates, but a dog
crate is usually not a good substitute for a hard pet carrier.
What Are Some Of The Basic Features of Dog Crates & Pet Carriers
Wire Dog Crates / Kennels
Used for crate training, housing breaking and as an everyday
crate Many models are available with divider panels for growing
puppies Can be used to contain your pet in a vehicle Available
in collapsible or folding models Not approved for airline travel
Offers the most visibility and ventilation - well suited for
heavy-coated dogs
Soft Dog Crates & Tents Soft crates & tents are light weight,
portable, easy to set up & take down Can be used as an everyday
crate Not approved for airline travel Pet must be well crate
trained Not for diggers, chewers, aggressive dogs or dogs that
experience anxiety while crated
Hard Plastic Pet Carriers / Kennels Hard plastic pet carriers
are used to carry and transport pets Some models can be used as
an everyday crate Many are approved for airline travel Not
recommended for growing puppies since they don’t come with
divider panels Can be used to contain your pet in a vehicle
Available in collapsible models
Soft Pet Carrier Bags (for pets under 25lbs)
Soft pet carriers are designed to safely transport a small dog
Can be used to contain your pet in a vehicle A soft pet carrier
should not be used as a dog crate Many are approved for airline
travel and some can be taken in the cabin if the carrier fits
under the seat in front of you.
What Questions Should I Consider Before Selecting A Dog Crate?
Before you shop for a dog crate, take some time to consider how
you’re going to use it. This will help you get the most out of
your investment. The type you choose will depend on your
lifestyle, your dog’s behavioral patterns and what type of
activities you plan to do with your pet. We’ve provided the
questions below to get you thinking about the many different
ways that pet crates can be used.
Is this crate for home use only? If you’re not planning on
traveling with your dog a basic wire crate is a good choice for
an everyday crate. If you're going to keep it in one place you
probably don't need a collapsible model.
Are you buying a crate for a puppy? If you have a growing puppy
select a crate that your puppy will grow into. Make sure it
comes with a divider panel, which will allow you to adjust the
size of the crate as your puppy grows.
Do you take your dog in your car? It’s highly recommended that
you crate your dog while traveling by car. You may be able to
purchase a crate that you can use at home as well as in your
car. Or if you take your dog in the car frequently purchasing a
separate crate for your car may be best. Either way you may want
to consider a folding crate, which is much easier to move around
once it is folded up. Even if your dog is not crate trained use
still may want to consider crating your pet while in a vehicle.
If there’s any chance that your dog can accidentally get out of
your car in a strange and dangerous place that’s a good enough
reason to invest in a crate. Crating your pet while you’re
driving will also prevent any mishaps that could result from
your dog being left loose in your vehicle.
Are you planning on taking your dog on an airplane? You will
need a hard plastic airline-approved pet carrier. For small dogs
you might be able to use an airline-approved soft pet carrier
bag. Wire dog crates are not approved for airline travel. If you
travel frequently by plane you may want to look for a hard
plastic dog carrier that you can also use as an everyday dog
crate.
Do you need a crate that is portable and collapsible? If you
plan on moving your dog crate around a collapsible model is a
good option. A collapsible model should come with convenient
carrying handles. There are also some collapsible hard plastic
carriers that can also serve as everyday dog crates.
Do you take your dog hiking or camping? You will certainly want
to consider a collapsible soft crate or tent. They are designed
to be portable, lightweight and very easy to set up and take
down. A warning about soft crates, tents and pet carriers: – If
your dog is aggressive, chews, digs or experiences anxiety when
crated these are not for you.
As you can see, choosing the right dog carrier depends on your
dog’s size and temperament, the intended location and use, and
the function and features that you expect the carrier to
fulfill. Choose the dog carrier, kennel, or dog crate that best
suits your needs and how you see the crate functioning. You’ll
want to pick the one that offers the most convenience for the
uses that you have in mind.
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