It's time for your Boxer to have a crate of his own, but you are left wondering which style of crate is best. Selecting the right crate for your Boxer depends largely on your current and future needs. Will your dog accompany you on airline travels? Do you need the versatility of a collapsible crate? Do you want your dog's crate to blend in with your existing furniture? Picking out the perfect crate for your Boxer becomes less overwhelming once you have a better idea of how you'd like to use it, and what options are available.
Size
Selecting the correct sized crate is essential for your dog’s comfort, as well as the crate’s effectiveness. The perfect sized crate allows your dog just enough room to stand up, turn around, and lie down. Since puppies are considerably smaller than adult dogs, the size requirement of the crate will increase as the dog develops. Crates that have adjustable partitions are an excellent option for dog owners who do not want to have to purchase several sized crates as their canine baby grows.
Plastic Crates
Plastic crates are durable, and easy to clean and maintain. If you travel a lot and want to take your dog along with you, plastic crates are the only type of crate allowed for airline travel. They are composed of top and bottom halves that join together by removable pins, allowing for easy disassembly for cleaning. All plastic crates have ventilation slats along the sides and a wire mesh, latching door.
Wire Crates
Wire crates are made of metal and allow for the most air circulation compared to other styles of crates. The walls of wire crates fold down, allowing for easy, compact storage or transport. Some owners prefer these types of crates because they allow unrestricted views of their pet. They also are easy to clean and maintain.
Wood, Wicker, and Soft-Sided
Crates are available in a variety of other materials as well. Wooden crates designed to look like end tables integrate the dog’s crate with your existing furniture. Wicker crates give a more finished look to a traditional wire crate. Soft-sided crates are the most portable pet crate option available. Made of a combination of canvas and mesh, soft-sided crates set up and break down quickly and easily, making them a versatile choice for crating your Boxer.
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