It is important to get the right size dog cage for your puppy and this can depend on how long you intend to use the cage. If you just intend to use it whilst your puppy is very young then get one that is large enough to last him up until he is 6 months old. If you intend to use the cage long after your dog is trained then make sure you get one which will be large enough to fit him when he is adult sized. Ideas-4-pets have a cage size guide on the site which can be useful to refer to before purchasing.

Dog cages are usually constructed from powder coated steel, silver coated steel or galvanised steel and can be either square mesh or oblong mesh. There are also some which come in various different colours like blue and pink if you want something a little different for your dog. They can have either 1, 2 or 3 doors and some have a door on the top of the cage which can be useful if you have a number of puppies who can excellent little escape artists if they want to !!

It’s up to individual choice as to whether you choose a 1, 2 or 3 door dog cage. Sometimes it is useful to have a door on the long side of the dog cage and a door on the short side so that you are not limited to where you can place the cage. Look for a dog cages that are quality made (no sharp edges) and made sure that the one you choose is strong enough to hold your pet. There are some good lightweight models on the market but these are better for smaller, lighter dogs or dogs who are already trained to use a dog cage.

One very important thing to remember – NEVER force your dog into a dog cage or he will become nervous and see the cage as a punishment. Your dog should see him cage as a safe refuge, a “den” where he can go to sleep, away from the noise and bustle of family life. If you gently coax him into the cage by placing one of his favourite, soft, warm dog beds in there along with treats or his favourite toy or even his food dish to start with, then his natural curiosity will lead him in there. NEVER close the dog cage door when he first goes in there as again, this will scare him as he will feel trapped and see it once again as punishment. Instead, let him lie down in there comfortably of his own accord and leave the door open for him to go in and out at leisure. Your patience will pay off in the long run and he will learn that his dog cage is a comfortable, safe haven for him.

You will notice that all dogs have a “denning” instinct and they enjoy lying in dark places like underneath the table, behind the sofa, under the bed, etc. If you place a blanket on top of the dog cage, this will create a similar “den” for your dog which he will learn to appreciate.

Once your dog has got used to his dog cage and will happily go in it of his own volition, then you can close the door but only for short periods of time. Locking a dog in a cage for a long time is a cruel practise which we would not recommend. If, however, you have visitors who may well tread on your new puppy then this would be an option to keep him out of harm’s way for an hour or so. Equally, if you have not purchased a puppy play pen for your pet, his cage will be useful if you are busy elsewhere in the house and do not want to give him the opportunity of chewing your furniture, best shoes or electrical cables !!

As with all training tools, used sensibly,sympathetically, carefully and properly a dog cage can be a huge help in the training of your pet.

If you approach dogs off the lead or near their dog kennels as they can be territorial. It is always advisable to give dogs plenty of space so that they do not feel trapped or scared. Try to talk quietly when around dogs and do not shout or scream as this type of excited behaviour can cause them to be feel alarmed.

Only feed a dog if the owner has told you that this is ok as some dogs may have allergies you do not know about or may snap at your hand in their excitement to get access to the dog food or treat.

Never approach dogs you do not know if they are asleep in their dog beds, feeding or drinking and do not try to remove a toy from a dog’s possession. Dogs can be possessive around their food and toys and may snap at you.

Never lose your temper with a dog or hit, smack or kick a dog. This behaviour is very irresponsible and does not teach a dog to be either well behaved or to have respect for you. Dogs should be taught gently, consistently and with assertiveness not anger or bullying. Dog cages and puppy play pens can be useful aids in helping to train your puppy at an early age.

It is not advisable not to play rough and tumble games where the dog chases you as dogs do not always realise that this is a game and you may get hurt.

A puppy play pen will give him the freedom he needs and also peace of mind for you. You will know that your puppy is safe and secure and cannot chew things that can cause him harm, like cables or small toys.

Puppy play pens are also useful if you have visitors. A pen will provide your pup with a safe place to watch from without the risk of him escaping through an open door when the visitors arrive or being trodden on by unsuspecting feet !!