A pet crate gives a dog its own safe space, for training, travel or settling down.
A dog crate suits the owner of a puppy, a dog in training, or a dog who travels in the car. Choose the size for the dog's full-grown size, then the type: a folding wire crate is the usual choice. A crate needs a bed or mat inside.
Gift ideas
A retailer can change a price at any time, so check it before you buy.
Single-door folding metal dog crate in black, 36 x 23 x 25 in (91 x 58 x 64 cm), for dogs of 41-70 lb (19-32 kg). Two slide-bolt latches, a divider panel to grow with your dog, and roller feet; sets up without tools and folds flat.
Foldable metal wire dog crate with a tray and a single door, 60 cm long, in black. Folds down for storage and gives a dog a secure place to rest at home.
Foldable metal wire dog crate measuring 55 x 33 x 41 cm, with a single front door, removable plastic base tray and a top handle. It has a manual locking mechanism and folds flat for storage.
A dog crate suits the owner of a puppy, a dog who is being toilet trained, or a dog who travels in the car or sleeps better in a den. It is a practical gift for a new dog owner, and one that is used every day for years.
A crate is a safe space for the dog. Used well, it is a place to settle down, not a punishment, and it gives the owner peace of mind when they go out.
What to look for in a dog crate
Size. The dog should be able to stand up, turn around and lie down. Choose for the size the dog will grow to, and look for crates with a divider for a puppy.
Type. A folding wire crate is the usual choice, with a floor tray and a door at the front or side. Some crates expand or fold flat.
Doors. Two doors give more choice about where the crate goes in a room.
Portability. A folding crate with a handle goes in a car or into storage.
Bedding. The crate is a frame. Most dogs also want a bed or mat inside.
When a dog crate is the wrong gift
A crate is a big gift, and size matters, so ask the owner about their dog first. Some dogs dislike crates, and some owners prefer not to use them. And a crate is not for leaving a dog inside for long hours.
Frequently asked questions
What size dog crate should I buy?
The dog should be able to stand up, turn around and lie down. For a puppy, choose a crate for their full-grown size and use a divider while they grow. The listing gives the internal dimensions.
Is a dog crate cruel?
Not when it is used well. Many dogs like a den of their own, and a crate suits training and travel. It should never be a punishment or used to leave a dog for long hours.
Does a dog crate come with a bed?
Usually not. A crate is the frame, and many come with a floor tray. Most dogs also want a bed or mat inside, so a crate and a bed make a good pair of gifts.
