23 Jul 2024
What to Put in a Dog Crate to Make it Comfortable
Your dog's crate should be a safe haven from the hustle and bustle of daily life. But what exactly should you put in a dog crate to make it as comfortable as possible for your pooch?
Whether you're crate training a new puppy or dog, or your furry friend simply enjoys spending time in their crate, it really is important that you provide them with a cosy and inviting space – especially if they’ve never spent time in a crate before.
And while you might be tempted to fill it with lots of cuddly toys and blankets, you don’t want to go overboard. Your pup needs a good amount of space to move around and stretch out in!
What to Put in Your Dog's Crate for Comfort & Safety
There are a few things you can put in your dog's crate to create a comfortable and safe environment for them to relax and snooze in.
Here are our top recommendations to help you create a cosy crate environment for your furry friend.
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1. A Comfortable Crate Bed
The most important thing to put in your dog's crate is a comfortable crate bed. Dog crates can look a little harsh when they're bare, but adding a well-fitting crate bed can instantly make it a more appealing space for your pup.
We recommend opting for a flat bed that covers the whole base of the crate (unless you're still housetraining).
Avoid placing thick, plush beds in your dog's crate, as this limits the amount of space they have and can make the crate seem cramped.
The Best Dog Crate Beds
Leave your cosy beds and dog mattresses outside the crate and opt for our Traditional Vet Bedding. This bedding provides a comfortable, warm, and hygienic place for your beloved pooch to sleep without restricting their space.
The thick polyester pile and moisture-wicking backing help to keep your pup dry if they have any accidents, and it can easily be washed in your washing machine when necessary.
We offer both plain and paw print versions in a range of colours to match your dog's unique personality.
We also have a wonderful 100% wool pet mat that's ideal for a more luxurious space for your four-legged friend. This thick-piled bedding is ideal for colder months to keep your pooch cosy and warm through the night.
2. A Blanket or Crate Cover (Optional)
A blanket or crate cover can be beneficial for some dogs. It creates a den-like environment, helping them feel secure and sheltered from external stimuli.
It can also reduce anxiety by providing a private, darkened space to hide in, which may be especially useful for dogs that are nervous or easily overstimulated by their surroundings.
Of course, some dogs won't like their crate being shrouded in a blanket because they can't see their house or family. We recommend only using a crate cover if it's beneficial for your dog.
3. Tasty Treats
Letting your dog enjoy their post-walk treat in their crate can be beneficial, especially if you have multiple dogs. This way, each dog has their own space to enjoy their reward without any potential conflicts.
It also helps your dog see the crate as a safe and comfortable place, reinforcing positive associations with it.
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We don't recommend allowing your dog to free-feed in the crate. Dogs are likely to consume all their food at once rather than pacing throughout the day, leading to stomach upset or accidents. Instead, food other than treats should be given at set times during the day. |
4. Some Favourite Toys
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Providing your dog with some favourite toys in their crate encourages independent and calm play, keeping them entertained and mentally stimulated.
This can help reduce anxiety and prevent boredom, making the crate a positive and enriching environment.
Additionally, engaging with their toys promotes healthy chewing habits and can prevent destructive behaviour caused by a lack of stimulation, especially in younger dogs.
5. Access to Water
Ensuring your dog has access to water in their crate is crucial, particularly if you'll be leaving them for an extended period or during hot weather.
Hydration is essential for their overall health, helping to regulate body temperature and prevent dehydration. To avoid spills, consider using a crate-mounted water bottle or a spill-proof bowl.
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It's important to leave only a small amount of water in their crate so they don't have accidents. The water should be to prevent dehydration only. |
What to Put in Your Puppy Crate at Night
Of course, the things you put into your dog's crate at night should differ from what you put in during the day, especially if your pooch is still young.
Here are some things to add to your dog's crate at nighttime and things that should be removed for a peaceful night's sleep.
1. Puppy Pads
Puppy pads are an essential addition to a crate at night for young dogs as they help manage nighttime accidents.
During housetraining, puppies may not be able to hold their bladder until morning.
Puppy pads provide an absorbent surface that keeps the crate clean and dry, making it easier to maintain hygiene and comfort while your pup learns to control their bathroom habits.
When putting puppy pads in your young dog's crate, make sure they're in a separate area from their bedding so they don't have to lie in or too near the accident.
Ideally, your puppy's crate should be large enough to place the puppy pads so they aren't touching their bed.
2. Comforting Blankets
Comforting blankets can be a good addition at nighttime as they provide warmth and a sense of security for your puppy.
The familiar scent of the blanket can help soothe and comfort them, reducing anxiety and creating a cosy sleeping environment.
This can lead to better sleep quality and a more restful night for your young dog.
It's worth noting that any blankets, pieces of your bedding, or items of clothing you put in with your puppy might end up being chewed if your dog wakes up in the night and is bored, so don't put anything valuable in there.
There's also a risk that your dog will have an accident on the blanket, so be prepared for it to become a dog-only blanket.
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3. Remove Food & Water Bowls
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Removing food and water bowls from your puppy's crate at night is crucial to prevent accidents. Puppies have limited bladder control, and allowing access to water can lead to nighttime spills and bathroom mishaps.
Without food, there’s less risk of digestive issues or them waking up for unnecessary bathroom breaks.
This helps promote better sleep and reinforces housetraining habits, ensuring a comfortable and dry environment for your puppy.
4. Remove Toys
Removing toys from your puppy's crate at night is a good idea because it minimises distractions and encourages a more restful night's sleep.
Toys can lead to playful behaviour, keeping your puppy awake and preventing them from settling down.
By removing toys, you create a calm and sleep-focused environment. This helps your puppy develop a proper sleep routine and ensures it gets the rest it needs to grow and stay healthy.
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It's also a good idea to remove their collar at night when they're young, as the tag can be distracting for them. |
Where to Position Your Dog's Crate
It's not just about what you put in your dog's crate that matters. Where you put the crate is also important.
The ideal position for your dog's crate is in a quiet, low-traffic area of your home where your dog can rest undisturbed.
Avoid placing the crate in draughty locations or in direct sunlight. Typically, a quiet spot in a family room or bedroom works well, providing comfort and helping your dog feel included in the family environment.
Ensuring the area is as calm and tranquil as possible will help promote better sleep quality for your furry friend, helping them grow and develop as they should.
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Tips for Crate Training Puppies
When it comes to crate training your dog, there aren't any shortcuts. You've just got to be patient and consistent.
However, we've got some top tips to make the process easier for both you and your dog.
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To find out more about how to crate train your puppy, check out our in-depth guide to crate training a puppy at night.
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Create a Comfortable Crate Environment With Bronte Glen
Creating a comfortable crate environment for your dog is essential because it helps reduce anxiety by providing a sense of security and relaxation.
A well-equipped crate acts like a den, promoting better sleep and effective housetraining. Also, a cosy crate gives your dog a safe haven to retreat to when they need it.
At Bronte Glen, we have a wide range of crate bedding designed to create a comfortable and safe crate environment for your dog. Explore our full range today!
FAQs
No, it's generally not safe for a dog to wear a collar in their crate. Collars can get caught on the crate's bars or other objects, posing a strangulation risk. It's best to remove your dog's collar before crating to ensure their safety.
You should not put anything dangerous or that poses a choking hazard, like rawhide chews, bones, or toys with small parts, in a dog crate. Avoid items that could be easily torn apart or ingested, which could pose a health risk to your dog.
A comfortable, well-fitting crate bed, like our Vet Bedding, should be placed at the bottom of your dog's crate. It ensures a cosy and inviting space for rest. For puppies, you might add puppy pads in a separate area to manage accidents while housetraining.
Covering a dog crate at night can create a cosy, den-like space that calms and soothes some dogs, aiding in better sleep. However, it depends on the dog's preferences and comfort level. Monitor your dog's reaction to determine if covering the crate is beneficial for them.