Things to Look for in an Escape-Proof Dog Crate
In your search for the best escape-proof dog crate, there are a few things you should keep an eye out for:
Strong and Sturdy High-Quality Materials
Of course, the main thing you need to ensure a crate is completely escape-proof, strong and sturdy, high-quality materials that are going to stand up to potential chewing and digging.
Look for heavy-duty plastic or metal dog crates, depending on how strong your pup is.
If your dog is a real escape artist, look for crates without weak points (such as the ability to fold). Crates that state they have reinforcement at stress points provide extra security.
Secure Locks
The second most important aspect is a secure lock. How secure you need the lock to be will depend on how clever your dog is at undoing latches. Some crates will offer dual locks for extra security.
Always look for crates that state that the locks are positioned well out of reach for your dog. Proselect empire dog cage is a good example of this.
If you’re looking for an even more secure option, look for locks with key access, such as the Midwest iCrate or the IRIS Wire Pet Playpen. These types of locks will make sure that your pup is safe and secure inside its crate.
Correct Size for Your Dog
It’s always crucial to choose a crate that is the right size for your dog, for their safety and comfort. Bigger is not better, as this can make your pup more likely to escape and also mean they feel less safe.
Your dog should be able to stand up, stretch out, and turn around comfortably in their crate. They should never be able to wander around inside their crate.
Ventilation
All crates should have good ventilation. The wire crate has excellent ventilation. If you choose a plastic crate, ensure it has ventilation holes to allow good airflow.
Comfort for Your Dog
The right size crate and good ventilation help to keep your dog comfortable. Most crates can be made more comfortable by adding blankets, bedding, and other comfort items.
If your dog is particularly destructive, be careful about which items you leave in their crate with them.
Ease of Cleaning
Crates that are easy to clean make your life easier and are more hygienic for your dog. Plastic crates typically wipe down easily. Wire crates often have removable plastic bottoms that make cleaning a breeze.
Number of Doors
When you’re looking for an escape-proof crate, fewer doors are typically better as doors present a weak point in the crate.
It’s also easy to forget to lock more than 1 door. Most escape-proof crates will have 2 doors at the most.
Why Some Dogs Try to Escape from Their Crate
Buying a heavy-duty dog crate can certainly help to keep your dog safely confined, but it’s critical you figure out why your dog is trying to escape from their crate in the first place.
There are a few common reasons dogs try to escape their crate:
- Separation anxiety: Your pup may have separation anxiety, meaning they experience severe anxiety when they’re away from you.
If this is the case, an escape-proof crate can help, but you should also take other steps to help ease their anxiety. Get your pup checked at the vet and do some research for further guidance.
- Boredom: Often it’s simply a case of boredom, particularly for more active breeds. It’s crucial you ensure your dog is getting enough exercise for their breed, as well as enough mental stimulation.
- Lack of crate training: 1 of the main reasons dogs try to escape the crate, is that they haven’t been properly crate trained.
Crate training teaches your dog that their crate is a safe, positive place where they want to be. It might be time to go back to the basics.
- Being left in their crate too long: Your dog should never be left enclosed in their crate for more than 4-6 hours maximum (see also ‘How Many Hours A Day Should My Dog Be In His Crate?‘).
If dogs are left longer than this without a break, they can get distressed, and uncomfortable, and consequently try to escape.
- Their crate isn’t comfortable: Some dogs may not be comfortable in their crate. Ensure you make it a cozy, comfy space by adding blankets, a bed, water, and crate-safe toys and treats.
Basic Tips to Stop the Urge to Escape
We mentioned going back to the basics and crate training your pup to stop the urge to escape. So how do you do that? We’ll go over some basic tips:
If you’re struggling, there’s lots of great detailed guidance on crate training online. Checking in with your vet or finding a dog trainer can also be helpful.
Crate Safety Advice
Always choose a heavy-duty crate that is the right size and has plenty of ventilation. It’s crucial you crate train your dog before leaving them in a crate.
Escape Proof Dog Crate FAQ
Is it worth investing in an escape-proof crate?
There’s no denying that escape-proof heavy-duty dog crates can be expensive, especially if you need 1 that is very secure. However, yes, they are well worth the investment to keep your dog safe while you’re out of the house.
Conclusion
An escape-proof dog crate can keep your mischievous pup safely confined while you’re away from home, as well as keep your house safe from destruction! With crate training, both you and your pup can relax when you’re out.
