Types Of Large Dog Cages
Larger dogs have greater space requirements than smaller breeds. When choosing large dog cages, it is important to ensure that your pet has enough room inside. There are several types of large dog cages which are made from different materials. Metal, plastic and fabric versions are available, and each has slightly different features and characteristics. If you will be transporting your large dog, then the cage should be lightweight and preferably made from plastic or fabric. If your dog will be using the cage at home, then a sturdy metal cage may be more preferred. Here are some examples of the different types of large dog cages available:
Plastic Cages
Plastic dog cages come in large sizes and are highly portable. Dogs can see clearly through the front cage and side slots. A front metal mesh gate allows convenient access and can be locked using the spring loaded mechanism. The solid plastic base keeps fluids safely contained so they don’t get onto the floor of your home or car. A swivel handle located on the top of the unit allows for easy transport. Plastic cages can be disassembled for storage by taking apart the upper and lower halves. Dog owners often use these cages for containing their pets while riding in the car.
Metal Cages
Metal dog cages are made out of a spot welded metal mesh, allowing your dog to see clearly out of all sides. This also allows pet owners to keep a close eye on their pet, which is especially important if you are keeping sick dogs or puppies inside. The metal large dog carrier can offer multiple entry doors, not only on the front but the top as well. The doors close with a metal latch that can only be disengaged from the outside, preventing pesky pets from opening the door from the inside. As an added convenience, some metal cages can fold up flat for easy storage at home or in a vehicle. A plastic or metal bottom pan keeps fluids contained and can be removed for cleaning.
Fabric Cages
The fabric large dog cage is made from tear-proof fabric material with an inner metal structure. Most of these models can be folded up between uses and secured with a Velcro strap. Inside, a comfortable bottom pad allows animals to relax without hurting their joints. The mesh doors are see-through and are closed using zippers. Window covers can be rolled down to obscure your pet’s view to help them feel more secure in their large dog crate.
Accessories For Large Dog Crates
While large dog crates are designed to keep your pet safe and secure, some pets need a little extra attention to feel most comfortable in these cages. To help keep your dog feeling comfortable while in their “pet motel”, a variety of accessories have been made for just this purpose. For example, food and water dishes can easily spill over inside these crates. A clamp-on bowl system can be attached to the wall inside to keep this from happening. Dogs of all sizes and ages can feel uncomfortable on a hard metal or plastic surface. A floor liner pad keeps their joints from hurting while lying down.
Crate Floor Pad
Floor pads are essential for any crate where dogs will be kept for any extended period of time. A company called Midwest who makes crates also makes floor pads to go along with them. The pad should be fluffy enough so that the dog’s joints, specifically their elbows and knees, do not press against the flooring. The length and width of the pad should match the dimensions of the crate, however a small section can be left open to accommodate food and water bowls. Machine washable crate pads work best, as they can be cleaned easily after accidental messes and spills. Soft polyester fluff makes up the interior of most pads. If shedding does not come off in the washing machine, it can be removed with a sticky roller.
Snap-Fit Food Bowls
These special bowls are designed to snap onto the sides of metal mesh dog crates. This completely eliminates the issue of spilled bowls, which can easily happen as your pet adjusts themselves in the confines of the crate. The snap bowls can be placed off the ground yet at a height that your dog can reach. To attach, simply place the bracket through the mesh using the wing nuts. The bowls snap to the bracket and can be removed as needed for refills. This handy system is a great option for pets who spend any length of time within their cages.
Crate Caster Wheels
Ideal for unwieldy larger crates, these casters allow large dog crates to be rolled around on the floor. Large crates can be heavy and difficult to move, especially if the dog is inside at the time. These casters attach to any portion of a metal crate where two wires intersect. A caster sits at each corner for superior stability on any large dog cages.
These accessories not only help you, but help your dog too. There are even more accessories not covered in this guide, such as pet ID tags which attach to the crate to identify your pet during travel. These tags can be especially important for crates traveling in the cargo section of airplanes.
Choosing A Collapsible Large Dog Crate
Many pet owners carry around their small dogs in convenient collapsible crates. These soft, foldable crate systems keep dogs contains while giving them a sense of security in their own domain. However, some pet owners may not know that these portable crates are available in large sizes too, big enough to accommodate even the largest of breeds. Large breeds take up enough room as it is, so why carry around a bulky, rigid pet crate wherever you go? These soft and foldable cages can be set up anywhere- in the park, at an event, in the car, at the vet and anywhere else you want to bring your pet along. Let’s take a look at some of these features in greater detail.
Made out of soft, pliable fabric, these crates have a flexible frame which allows them to be folded up between uses. They fold flat which is great for storage in closets, vehicles and more. While soft, the durable fabric is designed to resist tear from pet claws and teeth. The easy to clean fabric can withstand any spilled food or accidents that happen inside. Mesh siding allow your dog to see the surroundings and have provide plenty of airflow inside. Many models feature fabric window covers that can be folded down during rainy weather. Closing the windows around loud or bustling environments also helps to keep pets calm.
These crates work well to keep your pet contained during travel in the car. This works especially well for animals who get overly excited in the car. Floor padding makes the trip comfortable and allows the animal to sleep and rest in comfort. While the framework is designed to be flexible, it is rigid enough to prevent your pet from toppling it over while inside. These cages resist toppling from excited animals by sliding instead of rolling over. Pet owners often use these cages at home as a place for their dog to sleep. Dogs appreciate having their own personal domains where they feel safe. While a dog bed is typically used for this purpose, a large dog cage works just as well as long as a comfortable pad is placed inside.
Although large dogs may be difficult to lift, most collapsible cages feature a double stitched fabric handle at the top of the large dog crate. Transporting your animal becomes as simple as lifting the large dog carrier via the convenient handle. It is a good idea to make sure that your dog has enough room inside to stand at full height, especially if they will be inside the cage for a long period of time. For big breeds like the Great Dane, an extra large dog crate will be needed.