What Are Dog Crates?"Why Should I Keep My Cocker Spaniel Puppy In A Dog Crate?"A Safe Haven For Your Cocker SpanielDog crates are den-like cages used to give our dogs a safe and comfortable place to retreat to, should things get a bit too hectic - for example, when the children get too boisterous! - or when our dogs simply want to rest. Dogs enjoy having a space of their own where they can feel safe and secure. A pet crate can offer exactly the security your dog needs. Pet crates come in many different sizes and shapes and are available in a varied choice of materials such as plastic, wire, wood and also fabric. You can even find designer dog crates, should you want something really special! All crates will have a large entrance door at the front, sometimes a smaller one at the rear, and a handle for carrying.
 Wire Dog CratesThe heavy gauge steel wire (and plastic coated wire) crates are very popular, particularly if the crate is to be used as the dog's main bed.Wire crates conveniently fold flat for portability and easy storage, and they often have a separate plastic base with a channel around the edges to keep any spillage or 'little accidents' contained. They're ideal for transporting your cocker spaniel in the car, as the crate can either be placed on the back seat, or in the boot if you have an estate car or hatch-back. Whilst they're good for keeping your pet safely contained in the car, they're not really suitable for carrying a fully-grown Cocker Spaniel. Nor are they suitable for air travel as they're unlikely to meet the strict regulations for airline approved dog carriers.
Plastic Dog CratesPlastic crates are excellent for transporting pets - they're great for use in the car and for air travel, as they're strong and will protect your pet against knocks during transit. They're also very often used as indoor dog beds. Most plastic crates are rigid structures, although some of them may have quick release clasps for portability and easy storage. They're much easier to keep clean and bacteria-free than any other style of crate.
Wooden Dog Crates Wood is often the DIY enthusiasts' material of choice - they're as solid as the wood will allow and, of course, the joinery skills of the DIYer! However, they are relatively easy to make. All you need is some wood, wire mesh, and a few nails or screws - how difficult could it be? Wooden crates are often used by specialist pet travel agencies for transporting pets abroad.
Fabric Crates Look Good In The HomeFabric crates are more asthetically pleasing in the home than a wire or plastic crate, having a 'softer' look, and make ideal indoor dog houses or dog beds, especially if the material cover can be removed and machine washed!However, if you're planning to do a lot of travel with your adult Cocker Spaniel, a fabric crate isn't for you as they won't take your dog's weight and don't offer much protection against knocks. They're best used to transport smaller dogs or very young puppies.
Why Should I Keep My Cocker Spaniel In A Crate?There are many good reasons for using a crate.
If you'd like to learn more about the benefits of crate training a puppy, simply follow the link.  Other Practical Uses For Dog CratesCrate training your puppy can be very useful as his crate can be used for many occasions.
I hope you have a better understanding of the type of dog crates available and the benefits of crate training a puppy. As you can see, there are many situations where crating your dog can be very useful! If you decide to crate train your puppy, and I heartily recommend it, you can learn about crate training your puppy (or your dog) and find plenty of good tips and advice on how to choose your dog's crate by following the links below. If you stick to the essential rules of crate training, your Cocker Spaniel puppy will be strolling in and out of his crate and enjoying it's sanctuary in no time at all! Return to top of page Return to Crate Training Your Puppy Return to the Cocker Spaniel Homepage More Titles In The Crate Training Your Puppy Series What Are Dog Crates And Why Should I Use One? How To Choose The Perfect Dog Crate Benefits of Crate Training Your Puppy Essential Rules Of Crate Training Dog Carriers Are Essential If You're Planning To Travel With Your Pet |