5 Best Dog Crates For Yorkshire Terriers
Dog crates are designed as a safe and secure area that your Yorkie can go to, particularly if you have a puppy and are training them or are taking a short car journey. In this article, I will look at some advantages of using a dog crate, some things that you need to consider when buying a dog crate, and I will look at 5 popular crates that have been tested by myself, friends, and family.
Advantages of using a dog crate
- Dog crates can serve as a peaceful and private home for dogs.
- Dog crates are used extensively for dog training purposes. Since dogs are accustomed to keeping their dens clean, they will learn fast to defecate outside the crates so as to keep their home comfortable. Hence, dog crates are especially useful for training puppies or new adult dogs in your home.
- Dog crates can be a safe heaven to protect them from over-excited children or hectic households. Similarly, an over-excited puppy can be restrained in the crate to prevent them from disrupting the family and house.
When traveling to unfamiliar places, a dog crate can provide a sense of security and comfort to your Yorkie.
Things to consider when buying a dog crate
Purpose of the crate
Will you be traveling with you dog? If so, consider plastic dog crates that are lightweight, foldable and portable. Plastic dog crates can be easily stored and carried for air or road travel. Also, these dog crates provide extra insulation during cold weather and can serve as a dog bed.
On the other hand, if you prefer plenty of ventilation and visibility for your dog (especially if you are living in a hot and humid place) and want a crate that can be easily cleaned, you can go for wire or aluminum type dog crates. Some of these dog crates can be easily folded down into convenient sizes just like plastic dog crates. Nowadays, regardless of the type of dog crates, most of them can be assembled within minutes.
Size of the crate
A dog crate must be just big enough for your dog to turn around and lie down fully stretched. Also, your dog must be able to stand up inside the crate without having to duck his head. In the case of growing puppies, buy a crate based on his estimated adult size so that you don’t have to keep buying new crates as he grows. However, for crate training purposes, you should buy dog crates that cater for dividers so that you can artificially make the crate smaller.
Tips for using a dog crate
- To get your puppy or dog accustomed to using the dog crate, entice him by putting dog treats and dog toys in the crate.
- Do not ever place your dog in the crate with a leash or collar on as it may choke him accidentally.
- Never leave your puppy in the dog crate whole day. Puppies should only be placed no more than 3 to 4 hours and overnight in dog crates.
- Place your dog crate in a private comfortable corner near to where your family spends most of the time in so that he does not feel isolated.
- While dog crates are good for housetraining, you should never use them for punishment purposes. Doing so will cause distress to your dog.
Petnation Port-A-Crate Indoor/Outdoor Pet Home
Key Features:
- Lightweight
- Foldable design for easy storage
- Water resistant
The Petnation Port-A-Crate is designed for indoor and outdoor use. With its unique design, this crate is perfect for anyone who loves convenience, as it is perfect for taking your Yorkie on trips, family vacations, or even to the vet.
Pros:
- Ultra-portable, ideal for transportation
- Easy to set up and fold down
- Available in 5 different sizes
Cons:
- Some customers had issues with the zipper
MidWest iCrate Starter Kit
Key features
- Ideal crate for new dog owners. Comes with 2-door crate, 1 dog bed, 1 crate cover, and two pet bowls that attach to the crate
- Double door crate
The Midwest iCrate Starter kit is ideal for new dog owners as It has everything you need. In each box, you will get a crate, crate cover, fleece bed, and two snap-on food and water bowls. That said, it is suitable for anyone who is looking for a complete dog crate kit in one convenient box.
Pros
- Ultimate starter kit for new dog owners
- Designed for ease of cleaning. Bed and crate cover are machine washable and dryer friendly
- Available in 6 different sizes
Cons
- Some customers reported issues with the crate not being sturdy said the crate isnt very sturdy
Carlson Foldable Single Door Metal Dog Crate
Key Features:
- Steel frame with a single, easy to lock door
- Designed for easy cleaning
- For small breeds of dog, up to a maximum of 25 pounds
The Carlson single door dog crate is a great choice for those that are looking for something that is easy to use, versatile, and easy to clean.
Pros
- Available in 6 different sizes
- Removable bottom tray for ease of cleaning
- Foldable for travel
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the cage is not sturdy
New Age Pet ecoFLEX Pet Crate
Key features:
- Designed using a non-toxic plastic-wood polymer material that doesn’t split, crack or warp
- Easy to set up, no tool required.
- Stylish design that will complement your home furniture.
The New Age Pet crate is a uniquely designed crate that will complement most home furniture. It is available in four colors and sizes, and made from a non-toxic blend of plastic and reclaimed wood, and also doubles as an end table.
Pros
- Available in 4 different sizes
- Easy set up
- Stylish design
Cons
- Some customers reported that their untrained dog has chewed the inside of the crate
Petsfit Portable Soft Collapsible Dog Crate
Features
- Easy access with TWO doors on the sides and one top entrance
- Foldable design for easy storage
- Light weight and sturdy for easy transportation
- No tools setup
- Designed for Indoor and Outdoor Use
The Petsfit soft dog crate is perfect for Indoors, Outdoors, and for those longer car journeys. It is light weight and sturdy, and has a foldable design for easy storage.
Pros
- Multiple Colors
- Available in 3 different sizes
- Light weight makes it ideal for short journeys
- Easy to set up
Cons
- Some customers reported issues with the zipper
Conclusion
Now that you have seen my five best dog crates for Yorkshire Terriers, it is going to be slightly easier to make a purchasing decision. There are many dog crates available on the market. You should not have any issues finding one that will help you with your Yorkie. All the dog crates discussed here are versatile, secure, and super convenient.
