How to Pick a Crate Size for a Puppy

If you decide to incorporate a crate in training your new puppy, you have a variety from which to choose. Several factors are worthy of consideration when purchasing something to help with housebreaking and keeping your puppy safe and out of trouble while you're gone. While you want it to be well constructed, it's even more important to pick a crate size appropriate for your puppy.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Decide the purpose of the crate. If you'll be leaving your puppy for most of the day, you'll want to buy a larger crate with a water attachment. If you'll be using the crate only for short periods, consider a smaller kennel like those used for travel.

2. Consider a crate that's large enough for your puppy to sit, stand up, lie down and turn around in comfortably. However, the crate shouldn't be so large the puppy sleeps in one area and uses another as a bathroom. You can purchase a larger crate later if your puppy quickly masters the art of housebreaking.

3. Choose a crate that will fit your puppy as he grows. Some crates come with divider panels so that you can resize the crate. Alternatively, you can buy a larger crate and block off some of the space with cardboard or plywood until the puppy gets older.

4. Go easy on your back and get a crate you can take down easily and fold for transporting from room to room or from the house to the car for vet visits or trips.

Tips & Warnings

• Remove your puppy's collars and tags if you must leave her unattended in the crate for even an hour.

Resources

• All things puppy