Your dog’s kennel is his castle. It’s the place in which he should feel totally safe and relaxed. His kennel or crate is the modern dog’s version of a den. What you should put in the kennel and what you should not put in the kennel depends on various factors. Every dog’s situation is different. The needs of a puppy are not those of a grown dog.
What to Put in Your Dog’s Kennel
If your dog is kept in the kennel while you are out of the house, provide her with a water bowl. Make spillage harder by choosing a clip-on bowl. If the dog can come and go out of the kennel while you are home, she can drink out of her household water bowl.
A kennel needs bedding. The type of bedding depends on age – chew-proof and waterproof is essential for puppies – but adult dogs can benefit from stuffed beds designed for canines. While blankets may prove a comfortable bedding for non-chewers, they are not a good choice for puppies and younger dogs.
A senior dog appreciates an orthopedic bed to rest on. If an older dog becomes incontinent, provide waterproof bedding.
Make sure all bedding is safe, without zippers or other items that could cause harm if chewed. That’s why purchasing dog-specific bedding is a good idea.
If you feed your dog in his kennel, it’s best to remove the bowl after he eats. Dogs aren’t meant to feed freely, and accidents are more likely to occur. Puppies need plenty of nourishment, so allow them access to food in the kennel, depending on your vet’s recommendation. Feeding a puppy in a kennel can help him with adjusting to a regular schedule.
What Not to Put in Your Dog’s Kennel
Don’t put any soft or squeaky toys in the kennel. Those are the kind that puppies and dogs who chew a lot are likely to tear up and potentially devour. That leads to serious digestive consequences, including emergency surgery. Seek out toys dogs can’t destroy for their kennels.
Any potential choking hazard, in any form, should not be put in a kennel.
The Night Kennel
Many dogs only stay in their kennel or crate at night. This keeps them from wandering around the house or seeking a place to eliminate inappropriately. Adult dogs should have access to water.
If you are crate-training a puppy, ask the vet about withholding water during the night. This makes it easier for the puppy to succeed at housetraining.
Purchase Professional Dog Kennels
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