Dog Crates
Warm, comfy & secure place to relax at the end of the day!
Dog Crates
Dogs deserve a safe, cozy space of their own, and the right dog crate can be invaluable for training, travel, and rest. Crate training helps with housebreaking puppies and gives adult dogs a secure “den” where they can relax. For frequent travellers, a sturdy crate keeps your dog secure on car journeys (and it’s required for airline travel in many cases). At Petworld, we offer crates in all sizes, from Small for puppies and toy breeds up to XL for giant dogs, and in various styles to suit your needs.
Remember, a crate isn’t just a “cage”, it’s a positive, personal space for your dog when introduced properly. For tips on making crate training successful, check out our resources in the Training Aids section. You can also find useful extras in our Dog Travel products (like car seat belts and crash-tested harnesses to pair with your crate) and browse our Puppy Accessories for items that make crate time easier (chew toys, training treats, etc.). Petworld is your one-stop shop in Ireland for everything you need to crate train your dog and travel safely with your furry friend.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size dog crate does my pet need?
Choose a crate size in which your dog can stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. As a guideline, measure your dog’s length (nose to tail) and height (floor to top of head) and add ~15 cm. If you have a growing puppy, get a crate for the adult size and use a divider to adjust the space. The crate shouldn’t be too large—if it’s overly spacious, the dog might use one corner as a toilet, defeating the house-training benefit.
How do I crate train my dog or puppy?
Crate training should be a positive experience. Start by introducing the crate as a happy place: put treats or a favorite toy inside and let your dog explore it freely. Feed your dog near the crate and gradually begin having them rest inside for short periods while you’re around. Always make sure the crate is comfy (with soft bedding) and never use it as a punishment. For puppies, begin with very short crate periods (a few minutes) and slowly extend the time. Consistency and praise are key—over time, your pup will view the crate as a cozy den, not a jail.
Are dog crates suitable for puppies?
Yes, in fact, crates are highly recommended for puppies when used correctly. A crate aids in toilet training because dogs instinctively avoid soiling their sleeping area. It also keeps a mischievous puppy safe and out of trouble when you can’t supervise for a moment. The key is to use the crate responsibly: ensure it’s appropriately sized (use a divider to section off excess space in a large crate), and don’t leave a young puppy crated for too long at a stretch. Always give plenty of potty breaks and playtime outside of crate hours.
Which is better, a soft-sided crate or a hard crate?
It depends on your needs. Soft-sided crates (fabric crates) are lightweight, portable, and easy to fold away—great for travel, camping, or calm dogs that just need a cozy spot. However, they are not ideal for puppies or avid chewers, as a determined dog can tear through the material. Hard crates (like wire or plastic crates) are sturdier and more secure. Wire crates provide great ventilation and visibility and are excellent for at-home use and training. Plastic crates offer more enclosure (some dogs feel den-like comfort with less outside distraction) and are a must for air travel. Many pet owners use a wire crate at home and keep a plastic or soft crate for travel purposes.
What kind of dog crate is best for travel?
For car travel, choose a crate that is secure and can be anchored in your vehicle. Plastic crates or specialty crash-tested metal crates are popular for car safety—they are enclosed and protect the dog in case of sudden stops. If you’re flying with your pet, an IATA-approved travel crate (typically a hard plastic kennel with a secure locking door, proper ventilation, and bolted sides) is required by airlines. Always label an airline crate and include water bowls as per regulations. Before any trip, help your dog become comfortable with the travel crate at home. For road trips, also consider strapping the crate in place or using a seat-belt harness for added stability.