The Best Crates for Dogs with Anxiety

1. ProSelect Empire Dog Cage (Single Door)

It is one of the most durable crates on the market. It is specifically designed for aggressive and anxious dogs. For easy cleaning, the crate incorporates a removable tray. It has lockable and removable casters for mobility and a high-quality hammer tone finish that protects it from rust and corrosion.

2. MidWest iCrate Dog Crate

This crate is perfect for dogs that weigh between 26 and 40 pounds. It is collapsible and made of metal, making it easy to transport. The crate has double entry doors, a removable pan, and a carry handle. Additionally, the crate comes with a divider panel so that it can grow with your dog.

3. MidWest Homes for Pets Dog Crate

This MidWest Homes for Pets product is versatile and portable. It is simple to fold and transport, thanks to the integrated handle. It also has durable materials, plus roller feet to make it easy to move. This crate is perfect for puppies, as it comes with a divider to make the space bigger as your puppy grows.

4. Precision Pet Products Double Door Dog Crate

This sturdy and durable dog crate is perfect for traveling with your dog. The heavy-duty wire is designed to endure repeated chewing by anxious dogs. The double door design makes entering and exiting the cage simple. This crate is appropriate for large breed dogs weighing up to 90 pounds (41 kg).

5. Frisco Ultimate Heavy Duty Dog Crate

This heavy-duty dog crate is perfect for easy access through top and side doors. It’s made from 22 gauge steel, which makes it highly durable and resistant to rust. The slide-out steel tray makes cleaning easy, while the escape-proof dual locking system ensures your pet stays safe. The stunning hammer tone finish completes the look of your home.

6. Petmate Sky Kennel

This lightweight plastic and steel frame dog cage is easy to travel. It is also appropriate for air travel. The 4-way vault door keeps your dog safe when traveling or at home. The dark and robust kennel provides a haven for dogs suffering from separation anxiety. In contrast, the grated windows provide your darling pooch with 360-degree ventilation.

7. AmazonBasics Two-Door Top-Load Pet Kennel

This plastic pet kennel is perfect for small breed dogs that weigh up to 20 pounds. The kennel has two entrances: a front door and a top gate. It makes it easy to put your pet in the kennel and interact with them while you are on your journey.

8. Merry Pet 2-In-1 Dog Crate

This wooden crate is designed to blend in with your home. It can be used as a dog cage or a gate to block off certain areas of your house. When the crate is used, the wood veneer cover can also be used as a table.

9. Port-A-Crate E2 Indoor/Outdoor Pet Home by Petnation

This soft crate is perfect for traveling with your dog. You can use it indoors or outdoors, which folds quickly for convenience. It also has rounded corners to protect your home and vehicle when you’re on the go. The padded carrying handles make it simple to tote this crate wherever you need.

10. JESPET Soft Dog Crates Kennel

This folding and lightweight pet carrier is great for dogs who suffer from separation anxiety. It comes in three sizes and has three doors with simple access. The frame is built of tough steel tubing that can resist much abuse.

Symptoms of separation anxiety in dogs

Suppose your dog seems interested in tearing up paper when he’s anxious. In that case, it might mean that he suffers from separation anxiety. Dogs with separation anxiety often struggle when left alone, even for a short time.

Additionally, your dog may exhibit some of the following symptoms:

• Dogs that are fearful or distressed may gnaw on objects, particularly those that smell like you. It can lead to them destroying your property. If your dog is doing this, it is essential to find a way to help them feel more comfortable and safe.
• Pacing or Shaking: Dogs often walk back and forth when nervous, which can wear down the grass or carpet.
• Panicking Before You Leave: If your dog has separation anxiety, it may start to act frantic as you prepare to leave the house. The dog may follow or lean against you to keep you from going.
• Constantly Vocalizing: Some dogs bark and howl when their owners leave them alone. It cannot be delightful for the dog’s neighbors.
• If your dog has been housetrained, they can urinate or defecate in the house even when you are not there.
• Panting and Drooling: Some separation anxiety symptoms are excessive panting and drooling.
• Disinterest in Food or Treats: Some dogs will eat their food when you’re not there, but others will not. If a dog doesn’t seem interested in its food, it might just be waiting for you to come back.
• Excessive Licking: Dogs that are stressed out may lick their crate or their paws too much. It can make them lose their fur.
• Escaping: If your dog is trying to escape their crate, home, or yard, it is a sign that they are stressed out because of separation anxiety.
• Coprophagia: Dogs eating their own or another pet’s feces is called coprophagia.

What Causes Separation Anxiety in Dogs?

There are several reasons why dogs might experience separation anxiety. Some of the most common reasons are:

• People-pleasing breeds: Dogs with a close bond with their owners are more likely to suffer separation anxiety. When left alone for the first time, dogs used to having their owners nearby may also feel anxious.
• Traumatic experiences: Many shelter or rescue dogs become afraid when left alone. It is because they may have experienced abandonment or other forms of trauma in the past.
• Significant life changes: Dogs can develop anxiety after a major life change, like moving, losing a family member, or having a child.

Breeds Prone to Separation Anxiety

Many types of dogs, like Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, and Poodles, get anxious when their owners leave them alone.

Furthermore, because they have been raised to be companions for millennia, toy or tiny breeds such as Yorkshire Terriers, Chihuahuas, Bichon Frises, and Maltese are more prone to stress.

German Shepherds are among the breeds of dogs that suffer from separation anxiety. It occurs when they cannot be with their owner and can lead to destructive behavior.

Other dogs like Vizlas and German Shorthaired Pointers may try to escape to look for their owners if you’re not around. Other breeds suffering from separation anxiety are Rottweilers, Dobermans, Border Collies, and Jack Russell Terriers.

On the other hand, some dog breeds enjoy some alone time. These breeds are Chow Chows, Greyhounds, Whippets, Shiba Inus, Shar Peis, and English Bulldogs.

Do Crates Help Reduce Separation Anxiety in Dogs?

Training your dog to enter a crate can help with separation anxiety. Dogs prefer sleeping in caves or dens, so crates can offer them a secure area to rest.

What are the benefits of getting a dog crate?

There are numerous advantages to using a dog kennel to alleviate separation anxiety. Here are a few examples:

• Gives your dog a haven– Leaving your dog in a small room is not a good idea. Dogs can break down doors or windows to try and escape. A crate provides a secure environment for both you and your dog.
• A crate with a fleece floor or soft sides can also be a safe place for your dog to sleep while you are away or on the go.
• Keeps your dog under control – A crate can help you control which parts of your house your dog is allowed in when you’re not home.
• Helps your dog get acclimated – A dog crate can help your pet feel safe and comfortable no matter where you go. It is because he will always have a place that smells familiar to him.
• Eases potty training –Crates can assist your dog in learning to relieve himself outside, but this does not always work.

Popular Types of Dog Crates

• Plastic Crates: Plastic crates create a dark, confined atmosphere that might be soothing to dogs suffering from separation anxiety.
• Soft-sided dog crates are easy to transport because they are lightweight. They also provide a warm, relaxing environment for nervous puppies.
• Metal Dog Crates: Some of the most popular dog crates are aluminum or steel. They can also withstand aggressive chewers and adept escape artists.
• Wooden Dog Crate: Although wooden dog cages appear lovely in your home, they may not be the most excellent option for anxious or chewing dogs.

What to Consider When Purchasing the Most Effective Dog Crate for Separation Anxiety

When you are buying a high-anxiety dog crate, there are some things you need to look out for. For example, make sure the crate has these features:

1. Size

When selecting a dog crate, think about how big the crate is. If the crate is huge, your dog may feel exposed. Your dog may feel confined and uncomfortable if the crate is too small. The right size for a crate should be one where your dog can stand up, lie down and turn around comfortably.

2. Material

You want to choose a crate made of high-quality materials that will last. Metal crates made from solid steel are the most sturdy and durable option.

3. Devoid of Sharp Surfaces

Sharp corners and exposed wire edges can damage the inside of your car and your floors. They can also be dangerous for pets.

4. Opt for cave-like crates

When your pet is confined in the dark, they will feel more at ease—a secure container with thick walls blocking visual stimuli.

5. It can’t have places where the dog can chew on it.

Dogs with separation anxiety often chew through things when they are left alone.

6. Must be 100% secure

Very anxious dogs will do anything they can to escape their crates. Look for crates with double latches that are hidden and out of your dog’s reach.

7. Comfort

You should ensure that your dog’s crate has plenty of ventilation and airflow. The crate should also have a soft padded floor or comfortable base so your pet can sleep comfortably.

8. Allow Your Dog to See Easily

Some dogs feel better in a dark, enclosed space, while others feel better when seeing what is happening around them. If you are using your crate on road trips, you will want to choose one with large windows. If you need more flexibility, choose one with drop-down sides.

9. Portable

If you take your dog’s crate with you a lot, it should be easy to set up and take down. You’ll also want to consider whether your crate can be carried with a shoulder strap or handle. Also, you should ensure that your crate can be used on airlines.

10. Maintenance

Many companies that make dog crates offer some warranty on them. When you think about how long the crate will last, it’s essential to keep this in mind.

11. Easy Assembly

Some dog crates come pre-assembled, while others need to be assembled from scratch. How much you spend on a crate may depend on how much work you are willing to do.