Dog crates or dog kennels provide a safe and secure space for your dog to rest when you have guests or young children in the home or when you cannot supervise the dog.

Dog crates are successful tools in house training or potty training dogs or puppies, as dogs are instinctively reluctant to soil their sleeping space.

Dog Crates also double as a travel carrier when transporting your pet or if you need to fly on an airline. Dog crates come in all sizes and materials from soft sided to the traditional metal frame.

Dog Crates come in three materials: metal frame, plastic molded frame with metal door, soft sided. Many models are collapsible for storage but some are designed to fold more easily than others. A metal crate will be most easily cleaned and also will be most secure for dogs that are potentially destructive chewers. The plastic molded crates are the kind that are typically required for airline travel, so if you are a frequent flyer and will be taking your pooch along, it might be a good idea to purchase one of these dog crates. The plastic crates are designed to stack easily, so if you have more than one dog and if your dogs are smaller this makes traveling with your pets all the more convenient. Soft sided crates are a nice option if your dog is not destructive and is already a happy crate trained animal. These models are made of durable fabrics that provide a secure enclosure for your dog, but also are easily folded away when not in use - perfect for car trips or stays away from home.

When buying a dog crate be sure to purchase a crate that is large enough for your dog or the size that your dog will become when they are full grown. The dog should be able to easily walk into the crate opening without ducking its head and must be able to comfortable stand and turn all the way around without coming in contact with the sides of the crate. If you have a puppy, you can make the big crate smaller by using the crate divider (usually comes with the crate) or by putting large rolled up towels and blankets in one end to ensure a cozy space and also to encourage house training.