Did you know that dog crates are not just a “simple” cage for your dog? Some dog crates are also beneficial in helping high anxiety dogs.
Continue reading this article to know the best crates for dogs with anxiety, its different types, factors to consider while choosing a dog crate, how to help your high anxiety dogs, and the answer to some of the most frequently asked questions about dog crates.
12 Best Dog Crates For High Anxiety Dogs
1. ProSelect Empire Cages
With its extremely durable, indestructible, and heavy-duty materials, the ProSelect Empire Cages is the perfect choice for high anxiety dogs who might damage their cages by trying to escape. Pet owners will not also worry about cleaning and moving it to other locations because of its removable casters and grated floor with a tray.
However, this dog crate can be a bit more expensive compared to other products on the market. Plus, because of its dimensions, it might not be the most suitable for extremely large dogs.
It has an overall dimension of 33.75″ H x 37″ W x 25.13″ L, is available in both medium and large sizes, weighs 75.2pounds, and is available in black color.
Pros
- 20-gauge steel cage
- Can be easily moved and cleaned
- Hard to be damaged even by the most aggressive canines
Cons
- Might not be applicable for extremely big dogs
- Bit more expensive compared to other dog crates
2. Merry Pet 2-in-1 Configurable Pet Crate & Gate
This Merry Pet crate is crafted with premium wood that can serve as both a kennel and an adjustable gate. Its gate mode allows you to adjust the four panels depending on your preference and the availability of space. Meanwhile, the kennel mode offers a safe place and space for your dog.
But, even though they used high-quality food as their material, wood can still be damaged by high-anxiety dogs who have severe aggressive chewing behavior.
It has overall dimensions of 27.91″ x 39.8″ x 31.5″ (external), 24.5″ x 36.5″ x 31.2″ (internal), and 21.5″ x 27.5″ (door). This product also weighs 55.5 pounds and is available in the color brown.
Pros
- Multi-functional design
- Easy to clean and sanitize because of its removable plastic tray
- Good for high-anxiety dogs who don’t chew on crates
Cons
- Wood can still be damaged by dogs
- Might not be suitable for holding large dog breeds
3. LUCKUP 38 Inch Heavy Duty Dog Cage
This LUCKUP 38 dog crate is designed using industrial corrosion-resistant steel and is extremely hard to be damaged by a dog. Since it is corrosion-resistant, it will last long even with outside exposure.
With its durable materials and non-toxic finish, this dog crate also guarantees a secure and safe place for your pets. You can also move and clean it easily because of its castor wheels and removable tray features.
On the other hand, this product might not be your first choice for extremely large dogs with separation anxieties. There are reviews stating that some dogs try to fit their heads through the bars.
It has overall dimensions of 37.5″L X 25.5″W X 32″H, is available in 38, 42, and 46 inches sizes, and comes in a dark silver coating.
Pros
- Lasts longer because of the industrial corrosion-resistant steel
- Very durable and indestructible
- Can be easily moved and cleaned depending on your preference
Cons
- Not the best option for large dogs with separation anxiety
4. MidWest Homes For Pets Single & Double Door iCrate
The MidWest Homes Dog Crate is built with enhanced security features to ensure your dog’s safety and welfare. There are also divider panels, leakage-free plastic pans, and protective rubber feet that come with this product. In addition, this MidWest dog crate can be easily assembled and transported.
However, there are reviews about this product’s latches. Dogs who are masters in escaping might break into the unstable latches. Plus, extremely strong and large dogs might bend the wires.
It has a wide variety of sizes ranging from 18L x 23 x 25 up to 48L x 23 X 25 dimensions. Plus, they also offer both double and single-door styles.
Pros
- Have an enhanced security feature
- Can be assembled in seconds
- Have a wide variety of sizes
- Can also be easily cleaned and sanitized
Cons
- Dogs who are expert artists might break through the latches
- Larger dogs might be able to bend the flimsy wires
5. SMONTER 38″ Heavy Duty Metal Dog Cage With Wheels
The SMONTER 38 dog crate is made of non-toxic metal frames with multi-layers of secured coating that makes this crate safe from corrosion, rust, and scratch marks. Plus, because of its non-toxic finishes, there won’t be any issues even when your dog decided to lick its bars.
This crate’s heavy-duty and high-quality materials will surely prevent your dog from escaping. It also comes with a removable plastic tray that makes it easier to clean.
But, there are reviews stating that this might not be the best choice for small, aggressive, and tricky dogs.
In addition, it has overall dimensions of 38 x 26 x 32 inches, 42 x 26 x 32 inches, and 46 x 26 x 32 inches – depending on your chosen size. This crate is available in dark silver and weighs 50 pounds.
Pros
- Made with durable and high-quality materials
- Easy to clean and move
- Non-toxic finishes
Cons
- Might not be applicable for small and aggressive dogs
- There are reviews about unstable locks
6. Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier
This Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier is a high-quality, no-frills dog crate that will keep your dog secure and safe while contained. This crate also has 360-degree ventilation that ensures your dog will be free from suffocation and heat. In addition, this product is convenient for having 2 “live animals” and ID stickers for easy identification for travel. The PetMate Sky Kennel is also airline-approved.
It has overall dimensions of 21 x 16 x 15 inches up to 48 x 16 x 15 inches – depending on the size you chose. Meanwhile, based on several Amazon reviews, this product might not be as secure as other brands.
Pros
- Made with high-quality materials
- Safe and durable
- 30-degree ventilation
Cons
- Can be pricey
- Might not be as secure as other brands
7. Carlson Extra Tall 70-Inch Wide Adjustable Freestanding Pet Gate
This durable Carlson product is made of premium wood that is designed to be extra wide and tall. It can also be easily adjusted without using any special tools. Plus, it is 100% free from toxic finishing chemicals. Its stylish design makes it stand out from other dog crates. Lastly, it has a wide variety of sizes available depending on your preference.
On the other hand, some reviews state that this crate might not work well for heavy-chewing dogs and those who can easily jump high above the fence.
Pros
- Very portable and easy to set up
- Makes your dog feel freer
- You can still interact with your dog
Cons
- Might not work well for extremely heavy chewing dogs
- Dogs who can jump high can easily surpass the fence
8. PetNation Port-A-Crate Indoor & Outdoor Crate
Lightweight and portable, this PetNation crate is perfect for pet owners who often travel. It also comes with a tightly woven fabric and durable steel frame that help keep your dog secured and protected. Aside from that, this crate is also water resistant and has a good ventilation flow. It has overall dimensions of 36 x 25 x 25 inches.
On the other hand, this dog crate might not be the best choice for extremely aggressive dogs because it is less secured compared to other dog crates.
Pros
- Easily assembled and transported
- Has good ventilation
- Tight fabric and durable steel frame
- Water-resistant
Cons
- Not that suitable for aggressive dogs
- Less secured compared to other brands
9. Impact Collapsible Aluminum Dog Crate
This Impact dog crate is extremely durable with its rust-resistant and crush-proof corners. It is also composed of 4-sided ventilation that guarantees a superior flow of fresh air inside their crates.
This crate is also protected from corrosion and rust. Weighing around 10.2 pounds, this has an overall measurement of 36 x 25 x 25 inches – which can also vary depending on the size you choose.
In addition, this dog crate is quite expensive and not that portable compared to other brands.
Pros
- Extremely durable and secured
- Have good ventilation
- 100% free from harmful toxins
Cons
- Not very portable and lightweight
- More expensive compared to other products
10. EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate
Ranked first under Amazon’s “Soft Dog Crate”, this EliteField product is known for its larger windows and storage pouches. Its large windows and doors are perfect for dogs with separation anxieties. Plus, its lightweight and easy-to-transport feature make it great for traveling. It is also crafted with strong steel tubes and durable mesh fabric.
Another good thing about this product is that it has wide color and size variations. With that, you can choose the type that will suit you the most.
However, this EliteField dog crate might not be the best if you have a heavy chewing dog.
Pros
- Waterproof bottom mat
- Large windows and doors
- Heavy-duty fabric
- Have a wide variety of colors and sizes
Cons
- Not recommended for heavy chewing dogs
- Can be less secured compared to other brands
11. Noz2Noz Soft-Krater Indoor & Outdoor Crate for Pets
This dog crate from Noz2Noz is appropriate for indoor and outdoor usage and comes in 5 sizes (ranging from 21″ to 42″). With mesh windows and doors, it is properly ventilated, allowing your dog to appreciate and sniff the full breeze when outside. Its features make it perfect for dogs with separation anxieties since it allows them always to see their owners.
The downside of this product is it doesn’t have any mats inside and window coverings for privacy – which might not be good for dogs who prefer a more cave-like crate.
Pros
- Very portable and lightweight
- Appropriate for both outdoor and indoor
- Well ventilated
Cons
- Not good for vomiting-prone dogs because of its fabric material
- No mats inside and Windsor coverings
12. KELIXU 38″ Heavy Duty Large Cage Metal Dog Kennels
This KELIXU 38 dog kennel is a carefully crafted product that helps in safely containing anxious dogs. In addition, the materials used are corrosion and rust resistant; thus, you can guarantee that this crate can last long. It also has features like double doors for ventilation and a removable plastic tray.
Moreover, it has a overall dimensions of 37.5″L X 25.5″W X, 42“L X 31”W X 37“H, and 45.2″L X 31.5″W X 38.5″H – depending on your chosen size. It only comes in the color black.
On the downside, there are buyer reviews stating that they find this product hard to assemble. Plus, if you have a smart dog, they might be able to pop the locks.
Pros
- Safe and secured
- Well ventilated
- Non-toxic finishes
- Made with corrosion and rust-resistant materials
- 360-degree locking casters
Cons
- Some reviews state that this can be hard to assemble
- Some smart dogs can pop the locks
What to Look For In a Crate For High Anxiety Dogs
Dog crates also help dogs calm down during their anxiety episodes. Now, to find the best crates for dogs with anxiety, we need to consider the following important factors:
Comfortable Internal Surface
Always check if the internal surface is comfortable enough for your dog to lie on. Remember that these crates should help them feel more relaxed; thus, it is important to guarantee that their crates won’t cause discomfort. Materials such as bolts, screws, and other robust connectors should be completely shielded to avoid injuries.
Right Size
A good crate should be in the right size – not too big and not too small. Your dog might escape easily if it’s too big, and it can also make them urinate or defecate more. Moreover, a small cage might cause further discomfort and panic in your dog.
Durable
The durability factor should never be left out in looking for dog crates. A strong and high-quality crafted crate will ensure that your dog will not escape from and break the crate despite their continuous trials and chewing on its frames.
Safe and Secure
Look for a dog crate that is 100% safe from toxic materials and coatings. With this, your dog will not encounter any health problems even though they decided to lick or chew their crates. In addition, check if it has an excellent locking system to guarantee it will be secured.
Easy to Clean
We cannot prevent potty accidents from happening, so, to avoid further hassle and workload, look for dog crates with grated floors and removable trays. This will make your job of cleaning easier.
Portable
If you travel a lot, make sure to buy a dog crate that is portable, lightweight, and easy to assemble. In addition, portable crates are also suitable for pet owners who are still undecided about where to place their dog’s crate.
Proper Ventilation
This is considered the most important factor when it comes to choosing a dog crate for your dog. As a pet owner, you should guarantee that your dog will not feel suffocated while staying in their crates. In addition, crates with improper ventilation can cause more serious anxiety attacks.
Types of Dog Crates
To further know which dog crate will suit your dog the best, here are the following types of dog crates and their respective advantages and disadvantages:
Steel Dog Crate
A steel dog crate is perfect if you want to prevent even the most aggressive dogs from escaping their crates. Most steel dog crates can survive extensive dog chewing. However, this might not be the best choice for pet owners who expect their dog’s crates to be easily brought to various places because this type is heavier.
Plastic Dog Crate
Plastic dog cages are excellent for dogs who are frequently on the go. These crates keep dogs safe as they travel, whether by plane, rail, or automobile. If you intend to fly, you should choose a plastic crate that is sturdy, well-ventilated, and accepted by airlines. But, this type of crate might not be as strong as steel-crafted crates. Thus, it might not be the best option for large and aggressive breeds.
Wired Dog Crate
Cleaning this kind of container is not that difficult. Frequently, the bottom of them has a plastic tray that can be pulled out, washed, and then pushed back in. This design may be suitable for dogs who like to observe what is happening around them.
This might not work well for dogs who prefer a “wolf lair” style crate. Plus, to give your dog more privacy (if they prefer darker crates more), you may buy fabric coverings for wire boxes.
Wooden Dog Crate
From the name itself, this crate is constructed using premium and durable woods with stylist metals for the door and window. This crate is superior to other types because it is more aesthetically looking compared to other product designs. However, even though high-quality and premium wood was used, wood, in general, is still prone to damage.
Soft-sided Dog Crate
If you travel a lot or always like to move your dog’s crate, this type of dog crate will suit you very much. Soft-sided dog crates are extremely portable and easy to assemble. They frequently feature a sturdy frame, one or two doors, and walls made of tough cloth. They also provide your dog with a little bit more privacy. On the other hand, a high level of security and sturdiness might not be this crate’s strength.
How to Help Your Dog With High Anxiety
Aside from providing them with the most comfortable, applicable, and secured dog crates, what are the other ways owners help their dogs with high anxiety?
Enough Physical and Mental Stimulation
Giving your dog enough physical stimulation can help lessen their anxiety attacks. According to the research study by Tiira and Lohi (2015), one of the main factors that cause noise and separation anxiety among dogs is their lack of exercise. In addition to this, physical activities also stimulate your dog’s brain.
In relation to that, mental stimulation is proven to help in lowering stress levels and fighting boredom.
Provide Training
Training exercises can also assist in managing your dog’s anxiety attacks. According to Shade (n.d), target training, spin tricks, and walk “this way” techniques are one of the most effective anti-anxiety exercises for dogs.
Encourage Alone Time
Encouraging your dog to increase their alone time is one of the baby steps in eliminating their separation anxieties. For example, try to step away from your dog’s vision for 5-10 minutes and monitor their reactions. In addition, introduce it slowly to your dog to avoid further mental problems and panic attacks.
Create a Safe and Comfortable Place
Having their own safe and comfortable place is one of the best methods to calm your dog down during an attack. This is especially true if loud noises and a huge crowd are what set them off. Their go-to foods, favorite toys, soft bedding, and cushions make up their haven.
With their place, your dog will know that they have an “escape area” where they may go to feel better in stressful situations. In addition, this also teaches other people, especially kids, that dogs also have their boundaries.
Keep Them Busy
By giving them interactive puzzles, ming games, and toys, your dog will have lesser chances of engaging in destructive habits and anxiety episodes while you are away. And even though keeping them busy will not fully eradicate their anxiety, it will still help minimize their distress levels.
Best Dog Crates For High Anxiety Dogs: FAQs
Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the best dog crates for high anxiety dogs:
According to the article by Son (2022), high anxiety dog crates are crafted to help dogs calm down during anxiety attacks and other mental or emotional distress. High anxiety dog crates, unlike regular dog crates, are typically made of sturdier materials such as reinforced steel–this is to ensure that it will prevent even the strongest dogs from escaping.
Good and appropriate crates are very helpful for dogs with anxiety. Dr. Woodnutt, a veterinary specialist, states that crates can help anxious dogs in two ways. First, crates secure dogs, reducing the chances of injuries from escaping because of panic. And secondly, it also serves as a “safe space” for dogs to help them calm down during stressful occasions.
Putting your dog in a crate for 8 hours is not advisable. According to the Humane Society Org, long crate hours can cause mental and physical problems for your dogs. By making them stay in a crate for 8 hours, they will have shorter human interactions and physical activities like fetching and zooming – and this can make them more anxious and depressed.
In addition, puppies aged 6 months or less are not recommended to stay in crates for longer than 4 hours.
As mentioned, crates also serve as a “safe space” for anxious dogs. With that, you can include things that your dog loves in its crate. For example, putting their favorite toy or plushies in the crate can help them feel more safe and relaxed.
Moreover, ensure to place the crate in an environment that will help your dog’s situation. For instance, if you have a dog with noise anxiety, you should place their crate in a quiet and peaceful area – away from loud noises and stress.
Lastly, you can also inform other people like your guests and family not to bother the dog if they are in their crate so they can have their “alone time.”
In an article by the American Kennel Club, the most common symptoms of high anxiety among dogs are as follows:
-Sudden aggression
-Change in behavior
-Defecating or urinating more than usual
-Destructive behavior
-Lack of appetite
-Excessive drooling and pacing
We recommend you visit your local veterinarian to confirm and verify your dog has anxiety. They will also help you handle your dog’s situation properly.
With a wide choice of best dog crates for high-anxiety dogs, ensure to choose the most appropriate one for your dog! Plus, always follow the factors you need to consider in buying your dog’s crate. And lastly, remember how you can help minimize your dog’s anxiety attacks.