When we rescued Jake a few months ago (65lb shepherd mix) we borrowed a rather large crate (48"x36"x26") from a friend. We realize it is time to give it back and get our own, however when looking we cannot seem to decide on the correct size (one we looked at today is a bit smaller at 42"x32"x28"). The guidelines and advice given in stores we have visited all suggest a smaller unit would be just fine for Jake, however, when sitting 32" would be just enough height when sitting and as he is in it all day when we are at work, I want it to be something he has some room to move around and stretch in etc...He is now also used to the larger size.
Also, his current unit is wire (we like that he can see out of it), however a breeder we were talking to in a pet store reccomended a furarri (sp) plastic model. Any suggestions on which is better? wire or plastic?
Sorry if I rambled a bit, just not sure what to choose and am looking for some opinions please. Thank you.
The crates that I use are 40x27x30. And they are the plastic variety...I prefer those over wire crates, but not for any specific reason.
As for size...My shepherd that is almost 1 year old and weighs 70 lbs fits just fine...but she is also short and stocky. On the other hand, my other shepherd, who also weighs 70 lbs doesn't fit as nicely. She is quite tall. She is not crated at this point so no worries there. And then there's my Cairn Terrier, who loves the extra space.
Guess what I am saying is that you should get what you are most comfortable with. If he's in it for longer periods of time while you are working, I'd personally get something a little bigger.
I prefer plastic over wire, as I believe it is more den like and the dog will prefer it more. However a wire cage can always be covered with a blanket or something to make it more den-like, if you could find a good deal on one.
My pup apparently likes to be able to walk into the crate without crouching and to sit up inside the crate, so I have accomadated him that way already. Personal preference here.
In the end, it comes down to what feels right to you for your pet. Only you know his routine and preferences, and how much/how often you will crate.
Your dog should be able to turn around inside the crate, if that helps with the size issue your having. Also, wire or plastic cages. I have plastic because of the "den" or "cave" effect for the dog. It's the dogs safe spot. I would like to have a couple of collapsable wire crates for my vehicle for trips. It all depends on which you prefer. Good luck!
Do you think that if he has been using a wire crate for the 5 months he has been with us, it could be an issue for him to adjust to a plastic one at all?
It should not be a problem to change over. I personally have many crates, but the main ones are plastic more den like. I do not prefer wire due to my obession over someone getting something stuck in between wires...(have never had this happen, just an obsession). the plastic ones usually have handles for smaller dogs, and so they are used for transport also.
The larger size XL dont know measurements is what I have my 67 lb male (new resuce) in and he does just fine.
Most generally as long as they can turn around in one, the are the correct size. Usually dont need anything bigger than that, is general rule.
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