How to Make a Dog Crate Escape-Proof? Is your dog an escape artist despite being crate-trained? Some dogs are real escapists, and not every puppy will sit peacefully in his crate.
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So, what can you do to keep your canine companion safely contained in his crate? How do you keep your dog from fleeing? And how did your dog get away in the first place?
also read: Why does my dog smell like fish? Tips from Real Dog Owner
You’ll be glad to know that there are certain tried and true methods for making a normal dog cage escape-proof!
Why Does My Dog Escape From His Crate?
One of the most common concerns with dog crates is their ability to be escape-proof. By following these simple tips, you can help make sure that your pup cannot easily slip out of its crate and run away.
- Choose a sturdy crate. A poorly made crate will not only be difficult for your dog to escape from, but it may also cause unnecessary stress and anxiety for them. Make sure to choose a crate that is both large enough for your pet and strong enough to hold up to regular use.
- Train your dog properly in regards to using their crate. If you’re expecting them to use their crate regularly, make sure they understand the rules early on – setting a good example is key! Once they know what’s expected of them, it will be much harder for them to disobey when inside the crate.
- Clean it regularly: If you’re like most pet owners, you probably have a love-hate relationship with your dog’s crate. You love that it keeps your pup safe and contained, but you also hate that it’s one more thing to clean up after them. But if you’re following these tips, your pup’s crate can become escape-proof!
- Space of the Crate: Make sure the crate is big enough for your pup to lay down in but not so big that they can stand up and pace around. Second, put a sturdy pad inside the crate to help keep them comfortable. And finally, make sure the door of the crate is securely fastened so they can’t easily slip out.
How to make a dog crate escape-proof?
Tighten weak points
Most dog cages fold up for simple transport and storage. What makes them handy, though, may also make them weak. The walls and floor are frequently the first targets for your dog, and locks that you thought were tough might turn out to be child’s play for a determined Fido. However, there are a few things you may do to strengthen these weak points.
Step 1: Fortify the walls. Attach zip ties to each corner, taking care to keep the ties short enough that your pet can’t gnaw on them.
Crate train your dog
Make sure your dog is always confined within a crate when away from home, using the following tips to make it escape-proof. Crate train your dog early on in order to create a positive association between the crate and staying put.
Use a sturdy crate that sufficiently fits your dog, with ventilation and a comfortable surface. Place toys and food inside the crate as distractions for your pup while you’re away.
Get creative with door latches that cannot only be opened from the inside.
Finally, never leave your dog unattended in the crate – always have someone nearby in case of an emergency.
Keep your dog Entertained
If you want to make your dog feel comfortable in their crate, try to keep them entertained most of the time. This will help keep them occupied and distracted from any negative associations they may have with the confinement. Here are a few ideas to get you started
- Play fetch with your dog: This is a classic game that can be played anywhere, and is sure to keep your dog entertained.
- Hide and seek: Another classic game that can be played anywhere, and is sure to keep your dog busy for some time.
- Make a puzzle out of some small toys or treats: This will require some dexterity on your part, so it’s not ideal if your dog is lazy or doesn’t like puzzles. But for most dogs, this will be a lot of fun.
Conclusion
In conclusion, here are a few tips to help make your dog crate escape-proof:
- Make sure the crate is sturdy and well-made. It should have a tight-fitting door and strong construction.
- Train your dog from an early age not to try to escape the crate. This will help avoid any accidents when they are older.
- Use a designated “escape-proof” area inside the home where your dog can’t get out of the crate.
