Want to learn how to set up dog crate? Dogs love to stay in their den to feel safe and comfortable. Best bullysticks for small dogs, along with the right dog crate set up, is a perfect combination to bribe your dog to use his crate. Dogs aren’t used to litter in the place they live. Because of this reason, a crate setup for puppy will serve the right purpose.
Grooming and getting the best dog shampoo aren’t the only things to have your puppy happy. Sometimes providing him with his own space can be a good decision.
With so many dog crates for small dogs choosing the right one might be a hectic task. It is a good idea to look for crates that accommodate a small dog portable water bowl, or training pads for small dogs. Buying dog crates small in size also requires consideration of a number of other factors.
In this article, we will be spilling all the tea on how to buy the right dog crate set up. Besides the purchasing process, we will also be sharing the right strategy on how to set up dog crate and collapse it in the right way.
So, without further waiting, let’s get started with how to choose the right crate setup for puppy.
Choosing the Right Crate
Here are some important things to consider when choosing the perfect puppy crate set up.
Material of the Crate
The material of the crate is an important point to take into account while shopping for a dog crate set up. You can find dog crates for small dogs in materials like plastic, nylon mesh, or even in metal. The material you choose depends on your preferences and also effect on your efforts of how to set up dog crate.
Suppose you are looking for a crate setup for puppy that is light in weight and easy to carry; then you must not get the metal ones. In such a stance, you can buy those that are made of fabric or plastic.
A metal puppy crate set up must only be brought when you are considering having it fixed in one place. Additionally, they are also sturdy and able to last for a good long time. These crates are well-ventilated and easy to clean too.
Size of the Crate
The size of the crate is also important to consider when you need to learn how to set up dog crate, and also affects the purchasing of a puppy crate setup. The right size will make sure that your puppy stays comfortable in his den. It must be big and spacious enough to have your puppy stand in the crate comfortably.Â
With that, you must also ensure the crate isn’t too huge for your small dog. A good rule of thumb is to look for a crate 2-4 inches taller than your puppy’s shoulder height. Moreover, the length should be 4-6 inches longer than the body length of your small dog.
If you will serve probiotic dog food for small breeds inside the crate, add a few extra inches to the body length. Your puppy must feel at ease inside this crate.
Purpose of the Crate
The purpose of the crate will also let you decide which puppy crate setup you need to go for. Will your dog use the crate for potty training, traveling or just as his own space? The answer to these questions will decide the crate you go for.
If you are going to have a dog crate set up for potty training, you need to buy one with a detachable tray with training pads. However, if you want one for traveling, look for collapsible dog crates for small dogs.
What Is the Ideal Place to Put a Dog Crate?
Before learning how to set up dog crate, you need to find out where to place it. An ideal location to place a dog crate set up is where your puppy feels safe. It must not be in those areas of your house with a lot of crowds.
Suppose you have brought a new puppy to your house; then, besides getting dog crates small in size, you need to place them in a visible and secure spot. Puppies often struggle to locate their den and are often annoyed if they fail to do so.
Another thing to note down is to place the dog crate set up in a quiet and calm area. An area with loud noise can actually make puppies or small dogs feel anxious. This will make your puppy feel safe and secure in its den.
Furthermore, the area you choose must have adequate ventilation and sunlight. Too humid or too cold weather can make small dogs uncomfortable. For this reason, try to place the crate in a room or area with normal room temperature.
Finally, don’t forget to choose a comfortable lining or bedding before you start with how to set up dog crate. When the crate is cozy and comfortable, it will encourage your small dog to use it more often.
How to Set up a Dog Crate?
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to set up dog crate.
Step 1: Choose a Location
The first and foremost step in how to set up dog crate is choosing the right location. Lookout for an area that doesn’t have traffic. Choose the corner of your home with the right sunlight and ample room temperature.
Moreover, avoid placing the dog crate set up at a location with many appliances. Electrical equipment emits heat and rays that might harm your small dogs. For the best health of your furry friend, it is good to keep them away from such things.
Step 2: Assemble the Crate
As you are done with choosing the location, next you need to assemble the crate accordingly to the instructions provided by the manufacturers. For this purpose, you can look out for the user manual that comes along with the dog crate set up you purchase.
Most dog crates for small dogs can be assembled by snapping the sides of the crates using clips and bolts. Make sure you follow the instructions properly to avoid a misfit. Also, attach additional attachments like bowls for storing treats for small dogs or hooks for dog leash accessories to the crate.
Step 3: Add Comfortable Bedding
When you have assembled a crate setup for the puppy next, you need to add a comfortable lining to it. The lining of the bedding you choose must be cozy and comfortable. Apart from this, it must also be easy to clean or washable.
You can try using a soft blanket or mat for this purpose. With that said, make sure the bedding is not too thick, as this might make it impossible for your dog to get comfortable with the crate. Besides texture, size is another important factor to consider.
The lining for your puppy crate setup must be on the right side. It should fit inside the crate without making a mess. A good rule is choosing a lining that allows your dog to stretch or lie comfortably if needed.
Step 4: Introduce Your Small Dog to Its Crate
Now comes the real part; introducing your little furry friend to a full-fledged dog crate set up. However, this won’t happen overnight, and you must give some time to your puppy. Allow your small dog to explore the crate by offering probiotic dog food for small breeds or some treats for small dogs.
Have your small dog explore his puppy crate set up, and don’t force him to do so. Have him do his work at his own pace. Don’tdon’tforget to reinforce and reward him during this period to promote positive behavior. Also, supervise your dog inside the crate so he won’t perform mischievous acts.
How to Collapse a Dog Crate?
Once you know how to set up dog crate, the next thing you need to learn is how to collapse dog crate. There can be times when you are traveling or just cleaning the space; in that case, collapsing the crate is the best option.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to collapse a dog crate.
Step 1: Remove the Bedding
The first and foremost thing you need to consider while collapsing the dog crate set up is to remove the bedding and any other accessory. This will ensure that none of the things are lost or damaged inside.
Additionally, if the puppy crate setup has any treats or water bowls inside, remove them on time. This will further make the process of how to collapse a dog crate a whole lot easier.
After you have removed the lining, clean it before storing it. Clean out all the additional accessories before you store them for the next use. Also, remove the bottom tray by sliding it out or unscrewing it.
Step 2: Collapse the Crate
The next step in how to collapse dog crate is collapsing the whole setup. To do so, you need to locate the latches that hold the crate together. You can unlatch them by releasing them or pressing them down.
After the dog crate set up is loose, you need to fold it. Carefully fold the whole setup correctly to avoid damaging it while transporting it from one place to another. Double-check if the setup is firm and won’t open while traveling.
Step 3: Fold the Crate
The last step in how to collapse a dog crate involves folding the whole setup securely. The latches can be fixed in a place when the configuration is collapsed. This will stop the crate from opening up when it is stored.
Bottom Line
Hopefully, now you are aware of how to set up dog crate as well as how to collapse dog crate. Make sure not to miss even a single step; otherwise, the dog crate set up might get damaged way too soon.
FAQS
How to Set up a Small Dog Crate Easily?
To set up a small dog crate, you can easily start by choosing the right location. Join the sides of the crates by rotating the latches or screws. After you are done, ensure the setup is firm and not wobbly.
What to Place in a Dog Crate?
A comfortable lining or bedding is the best thing to place in a dog crate. The setup must not be too thick or thin; otherwise, your dog might not feel comfortable with it. An ideal situation is to use a soft pet blanket inside the crate.
How Do I Introduce My Small Dog to a Crate for the First Time?
To introduce your small dog to a crate for the first time, try to use positive reinforcement. Allow him to explore the setup while giving him various treats and praise. Avoid forcing him to use the crate. Let him do so at his own pace.
Does My Dog Need a Blanket in a Crate?
Yes, your dog needs a soft and cozy blanket in his crate. It will give him a sense of security while making him feel at home. This will also make him feel comfortable so that he will use this space more often.
Do I Have to Put a Water Bowl in My Small Dog Crate?
Yes, you have to put a water bowl in your small dog crate. Your puppy thinks of his crate as his safe den, so you need to provide him with his essentials at this place. You can add a sturdy bowl to the crate to make things easier.