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Selecting a dog training crate is the first step. Before you can crate train you have to find a product that’s suitable for your dog and your lifestyle. Crates come in a variety of sizes and shapes. You will need to determine where and under what circumstances you will be using your crate.  
Plastic Dog Training Crates - These are good for car travel as well as air travel.  They can also be used as a regular dog crate in your home but due to their poor air circulation should not be used during warm weather or for larger dogs.

Soft-Sided Dog Crates - Similar to plastic crates, they are quite portable and thus good for travel or for use as spare crates in vacation homes.  Can also be used as a regular crate for dogs that do not chew or scratch to get out.

Wire Dog Crates - Good ventilation and comes in a variety of sizes.  Make sure wire bars are close enough together to prevent heads and paws from getting stuck.

Collapsible Dog Crates - Made of wire, these fold up to allow for easy portability.  Can travel with you or be moved from room to room.
 


No matter the style of dog training crate,the size is incredibly important to your pup’s health and well being. The crate must be large enough to accommodate the dog’s anticipated fully-grown size. At that size the dog should be able to stand, turn completely around and lie down comfortably stretched out. 

If you are buying a crate for a puppy, be sure to anticipate his full-grown size and buy the  crate size accordingly.  While he is still small,you may want to place dividers in the cage to confine him to a smaller area.  A dog will not normally soil his sleeping space but if the space is too large, he has plenty of room to still pee in one end and sleep in the other .

Remember to check that the door latch of your dog training crate is secure and closes well. Your dog could strangle if he squeezes his head through the opening.  Getting a quality crate should help to alleviate this concern.

A good crate is an important dog training aid - choose carefully.

Other items you will need are comfortable dog bedding and dog toys to keep your dog entertained while he is confined.

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This 3-Door Wire Dog Crate from SitStay.com is super sturdy and well as making it easy  to get the dog in and out of the crate.

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This stylish soft-sided dog crate offered by FetchDog is great for the dog on the go. Take it with you on vacation, keep an extra one at the beach house or use it as your regular crate at home. Your dog will feel safe and cozy in his own private den.  Not recommended for chewers or those that scratch to get out.
 
     Portable Soft-Sided Dog Crate

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