Anxiety can have a huge impact on the overall happiness, relationship and quality of life that you and your pet share together.
Oftentimes, dogs that have separation anxiety can be destructive to themselves and the household items around them when left alone.
That’s where finding a dog crate that is durable and safe for your pet comes in!
By Allison Salonko.
Allison is a Veterinary Technician in the state of Indiana. She graduated from International Business College and Vet Tech Institute of Indianapolis with a degree in Animal Science and Technology in 2011.
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There are several types of kennels and crates that tout strength and durability, but only a few can stand up to the true forces and determination of a dog with high anxiety.
The best thing to do for a dog that panics when they are alone is to keep them in a crate while you are gone.
Keep reading to find out how you can choose the best dog crate for your anxious pup!
Picking A Crate For A High Anxiety Dog
An important thing to mention first when discussing anxiety in dogs is that a kennel or crate will not cure separation anxiety.
You have to explore the reasons behind why your dog is anxious when you leave because this issue is a panic disorder and will take time to correct.
A crate will keep your dog and your home safe while you are gone.
This is the main reason behind why they are necessary when a dog has separation anxiety.
Here are the biggest factors that need to be considered when looking for a crate for your anxious dog:
- A dark, cave-like crate.
- Bigger is not better.
- No chew points!
- Security
Dark, Cave-Like Crates
I wanted to start here, as this detail is important.
While it may seem cruel to keep your dog in a poorly lit kennel they have limited visibility through, these are the most ideal designs.
Less visibility is better, plus dogs are den animals that enjoy being in smaller and darker places for relaxation and sleep.
Bigger Is NOT Better
This is true of any dog kennels, whether your dog has an anxiety issue or not.
Crates that provide a dog with too much space are not ideal.
Having too much room will often lead to them having accidents in their crate.
On the flip side, having a crate that is too small is clearly not ok either.
Your dog only needs enough room in the crate to stand up and turn around.
Nothing To Chew!
The thing that most dogs like to do when they’re having a fit in their crate is chew on stuff.
That could be the wire bars or the bottom plastic tray, maybe even objects that are close enough to grab and pull into the cage.
Most high anxiety dogs love to tear stuff up when they’re upset.
So keeping everything out of reach is the only way that you can prevent their anxiety fueled chew-fest.
Your Dog’s Security
By security, I mean that your dog’s crate should practically be bomb proof.
You need to be confident in the quality and strength of your dog’s kennel before leaving them alone.
I like to recommend kennels that are built out of one solid piece of material with minimal windows or holes.
Once you get a new crate, give a short test run where you pretend to leave so you can see how well it is working for your pet’s level of anxiety.
Three Picks For High Anxiety Dog Crates
Impact Dog Crates – Expensive but will work the best.
Gunner Dog rates – Less expensive but not as big.
Orvis Rough Land Dog Kennel – Durable and affordable.
How To Choose A Dog Crate For High Anxiety Dogs?
These poor, anxious pups are still wonderful pets, but they just need a little help keeping them safe in the event of a panic attack.
Providing your pet with a kennel designed for dogs with high anxiety will keep you and your dog safe while you are temporarily away from home.
Photo by Claudio.