Whether you’ve just brought a new puppy home or are traveling with your canine companion, a dog crate can provide safety, security, and structure. We’ll consider all you need to know about dog crates to ensure you select the best option for your dog.
What is a Dog Crate?
A dog crate, also sometimes called a kennel or cage, is an enclosed space designed specifically for dogs. Crates come in a variety of sizes, from extra small for teacup breeds up to extra large for giant breeds. They are typically made of plastic, metal, or wire and have a door that can be shut to contain your dog when needed.
Dog crates serve several important purposes. Firstly, they create a den-like space that feels safe and secure for your puppy or dog. Many dogs feel comforted by having their own space to rest. Crates are also useful for house training as dogs are less likely to soil their sleeping area. When used properly, crates can help minimize separation anxiety by preventing destructive behaviors when left alone. They are essential for travel by plane, car, or other means to ensure your dog’s safety during transport.
Choosing the Right Size
Getting a crate that is too big can defeat the intended purpose, so it’s important to select the appropriate size based on your dog’s measurements. Here are some general guidelines for crate sizing:
- Puppies: Get a crate that is large enough for your puppy to stand up and turn around in comfortably but not much bigger. Puppies often need to “go” quickly after eating or playing, so a roomier crate may encourage accidents.
- Adult Dogs: Double-check your dog’s measurements. The crate should allow them to stand up and turn around with a few extra inches. Most crates come with dividing panels, so you can adjust the size as your pet grows.
- Giant Breeds: Extra large and larger crates are needed for Great Danes, Mastiffs, and other huge dog breeds. Measure your giant pup, and don’t be afraid to invest in an appropriately sized heavy-duty crate.
It’s always better to size up rather than down as your pet grows. Crates aren’t returnable once assembled or used. Take measurements with your crated shopping to ensure the perfect fit.
Dog Crate bunnings
Bunnings Warehouse is one of the largest hardware chains in Australia, stocking a variety of pet supplies, including dog crates. Here are some top crate options available at Bunnings stores and online:
Vari-Kennel Fold & Carry Dog Crate – Starting at $79, this plastic crate is great value and ideal for transporting dogs up to 40kg. It folds flat for easy storage and has a plastic base tray for easy cleaning.
MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Double Door Metal Dog Crate – From $149, this sturdy metal crate has dual access doors, divider panels and ventilation panels on four sides. Suitable for dogs up to 68kg.
Suncast Port-A-Crate – Priced from $99, this plastic crate has a wired door and plastic carrying handles. It comes with a divider panel and is corrosion-resistant. Sizes for dogs up to 50kg.
Rhino Kennel Portable & Folding – Starting at $89, this wire crate folds flat for storage with the plastic base pan. Divider panels are included for sizes up to extra large dogs under 68kg.
Petmate Vari Kennel Dog Crate – Available in plastic or metal for $79, this popular crate has ventilation panels, carrying handles, and a divider. Suitable dogs up to 50kg.
Bunnings offers a good range of affordable crates from trusted brands. Check store and online availability, as sizes may vary by location.
Best Heavy-duty dog crate
Heavier dogs or powerful breeds will require an extra sturdy crate that can withstand chewing, scratching, and slamming. Here are some top options for heavy-duty dog crates suitable for larger dogs:
MidWest iCrate Pro Double Door Metal Dog Crate – Ranked as one of the strongest crates, it has a sturdy steel wire construction coated for rust prevention. Includes divider panels and dual access doors. Sizes up to XXL are suitable for dogs up to 90kg. Retails around $249.
Petmate Sky Kennel PRO Metal Dog Crate – Made of solid steel with a powder coat finish, it features a plastic pan, dual doors, and slide bolt latches. Available in XXL size suitable for dogs up to 80kg, priced around $219.
Variocage Collapsible Steel Dog Crate – Rated as super heavy duty, it folds flat for storage and has rubber feet to protect floors. Solid steel wire construction with plastic base tray. Sizes up to XXL for dogs to 60kg, priced from $199.
EliteField 3 Door Pro Series Pet Crate – This sturdy crate has three access doors, including dual swing doors and a drop-down panel. Steel wire construction with panels coated in rust-resistant epoxy. Sizes up to XXL suitable for dogs up to 90kg are priced at $279.
Anthropic Steel Dog Crate – Made of 12 gauge steel wire and plastic base, it has secure latches and ventilation panels. Suitable large and giant breed dogs weighing up to 100kg. Priced from $299 for sizes up to XXXL.
For heavy-chewing dogs or ones with separation anxiety, these durable metal crates provide supreme containment and peace of mind.
Best Small Dog Crate
If you have a toy or small breed pup, they’ll need a crate sized appropriately for their petite stature. Here are some top-rated small dog crate options:
Vari-Kennel Fold & Carry Plastic Dog Crate – Lightweight and compact, this plastic crate folds flat for storage. Mesh doors with secure side latches and divider panels included. Sizes are extra small to small and suitable for dogs up to 15kg, priced from $69.
MidWest Folding Metal Dog Crate – Sturdy steel construction with plastic base tray for easy cleaning. Ventilated doors and perimeter have protective edge coating. Extra small to small sizes suitable for dogs up to 11kg, priced around $89.
Petmate Sky Kennel Metal Dog Crate – All metal construction is made of plastic food/water bowls and a divider panel. Secure bolted latches and ventilation panels on four sides. Extra small to small sizes for dogs up to 15kg, priced from $99.
Petmate Vari-Door Soft-Sided Collapsible Dog Crate – This more budget-friendly option at $49, zips up with secure Velcro and side entry door. Lightweight and portable. Sizes are extra small to small and suitable for dogs up to 11kg.
Precision Pet Crate Pad Replacement – Soft cushion pad easily attaches to the bottom of wire crates for comfort. Machine washable resists odors and stains. Fits crates 23-38cm, priced at $24.
These compact yet durable crates provide a den-like space for small-breed dogs or puppies.
Dog crate Kmart
Kmart Australia offers a good range of affordable dog crates across numerous stores nationwide. Let’s look at some top-selling crate options available:
Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel Dog Crate – Steel wire construction with plastic base tray from $69. A dual swing outdoors with a divider panel is included. Sizes up to XXL is suitable for dogs up to 50kg.
Armarkat Foldable Pet Carrier – Soft-sided carrier zips up with ventilation window for $39. Carrying handles and shoulder straps make it portable. Suitable for dogs and cats up to 15kg.
Vari-Kennel Fold & Carry Dog Crate – Plastic crate folds flat, price starts at $69. Secure side latches, plastic base tray removes for cleaning. Sizes up to extra large for dogs under 40kg.
Kavee Pet Cage – Steel wire crate protected with epoxy coating, priced from $69. Divider panel and swing bolt door. Rust-resistant suitable for sizes up to XXL for dogs up to 60kg.
Trixie Pet Product Pet Crate – Foldable plastic crate with carrying handles for $49. The door opens fully for easy access. Suitable dogs up to 25kg in small to medium sizes.
Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Crate – All metal construction priced around $99. Plastic base tray included. Secure doors and ventilation panels on four sides. Sizes up to XXL for dogs up to 80kg.
Kmart offers quality dog crates from trusted brands at affordable prices both in-store and online. Check availability and shop early for the sizes you need.
FAQs
Is it okay to keep dogs in crates?
Crates are not intended for long-term confinement but can provide benefits when used properly as a safe space for a dog. Puppies under six months should be crated when unsupervised or unable to be monitored for
accidents to avoid destruction or ingestion of hazardous items. Older dogs can also benefit from short periods in their crate with beds and toys to prevent separation anxiety when alone. It’s important not to use the crate as punishment. Overall, crates should not be used to keep dogs confined for extended unsupervised periods, rather, they provide security when owners cannot directly supervise their pets.
How long can a dog stay in a crate?
Most experts recommend that dogs generally should not be kept in their crate for longer than 4-8 hours at a time. Puppies especially should not be crated for extended periods as it can be distressing. Signs that your dog has been crated too long include whining, barking, crying, or signs of distress upon release. Stressed dogs may develop anxiety or behavioral issues if over-crated. When home, dogs should not spend the majority of their time in the crate and be allowed regular bathroom breaks, exercise and attention from owners.
Is a used dog crate a good idea?
Used dog crates can work as a more budget-friendly option compared to new ones, however, there are some factors to consider. It’s important to thoroughly clean and disinfect any used crate, especially the wiring or crevices, which may harbor bacteria or parasites from previous occupants. The crate should also be structurally sound, with no broken or damaged areas that could injure your pet. Dividers should fit securely, and doors/latches work properly. Also, consider that used crates may not come with instructions or spare parts if needed later on. A new crate ensures you know your dog will be the only one using it. However, adopting a lightly used crate in good condition can certainly be suitable with proper cleaning beforehand.
Can two dogs travel in one crate?
It is generally not recommended for safety and well-being to transport two dogs together in the same crate. Even dogs who get along well at home may feel more stressed in a confined space like a travel crate. Dogs need their own space, especially when moving in unfamiliar vehicles. Traveling two to a crate also increases the risk of injury if the crate is jostled during travel as there is less room to brace themselves. It is always best to use two separate, appropriately sized crates for dogs, even if they are littermates or accustomed to sharing a home kennel. This allows each dog their own safe space while traveling.
What size crate for a 10kg dog?
For a small dog weighing 10kg, a crate-sized “Small” would typically be most suitable. Small crates are designed for dogs up to 11kg/25lbs in weight. This size crate allows standing room, enough space to comfortably turn around and lie down fully stretched out. It’s important the crate is not oversized, as this removes the “den” effect and may encourage accidents. A small crate measuring approximately 60x50x45cm/2×1.5×1.5ft would provide adequate space for most 10kg dogs. Always check measurements against your individual pet to ensure a snug but not tight fit as they grow. A larger crate can be purchased with divider panels to adjust the size as needed.
