Is your new puppy a furry tornado of adorable chaos, leaving little puddles and surprises around the house? You’re not alone! Potty training a puppy can feel like a never-ending cycle of accidents and frustration. Many dog owners find themselves staring at a wall of dog crates, wondering which one will actually help their furry friend learn good habits.
Choosing the right crate for potty training is super important, but it’s also confusing. There are so many sizes, materials, and features. Will it be big enough? Is it safe? Will your dog actually use it? These questions can make the whole process feel overwhelming and even lead to more accidents if you pick the wrong one.
But don’t worry! By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly what to look for in a dog crate for potty training. We’ll break down the most important things to consider, helping you find the perfect den for your pup. Get ready to say goodbye to those surprise messes and hello to a well-trained companion!
Our Top 5 Dog Crate For Potty Training Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Dog Crate For Potty Training Detailed Reviews
1. MidWest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single & Double Door iCrate Dog Crate
Rating: 9.2/10
The MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Dog Crate is a fantastic option for keeping your furry friend safe and comfortable. This crate has been updated with new features to make it even more secure for your dog. It’s designed to be a safe den where your dog can relax. The crate is easy to set up and take down, making it great for home use and travel.
What We Like:
- The new security features, like the Paw Block and locking tips on the slide-bolt door, really boost safety.
- It comes with everything you need: a divider panel, a leak-proof pan, and protective feet.
- Assembly is super quick and doesn’t need any tools.
- It folds flat easily for storage or taking on trips.
- The quality construction provides good ventilation and a secure space for your dog.
- The low threshold makes it easy for dogs to get in and out.
What Could Be Improved:
- The size recommendations are important; if your dog is on the larger side for the listed weight, you should get the next size up.
- You can’t use a crate mat or bed when the divider panel is in place.
Overall, this crate offers a secure and convenient space for your dog. It’s a solid choice for pet owners looking for quality and peace of mind.
2. Sweetcrispy 24-Inch Single-Door Dog Crate–Durable Metal Pet Kennel with Secure Lock
Rating: 8.7/10
The Sweetcrispy 24-Inch Single-Door Dog Crate is a fantastic option for pet owners seeking a reliable and convenient way to house their small to medium-sized dogs. It offers a secure and comfortable space, perfect for training, travel, or simply giving your furry friend their own safe haven.
What We Like:
- It’s made of strong iron, so it’s built to last and can handle daily use.
- The single door has a strong lock that keeps your dog safe inside.
- Cleaning is super easy because it comes with a tray that you can slide out.
- It folds up flat very quickly, making it easy to store or take with you.
- The crate has smooth edges and an open design so your dog stays comfortable and can see out.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 24-inch size might be a bit small for some small breeds as they grow.
- While durable, the metal could potentially rust if exposed to moisture for long periods.
This crate is a solid choice for any dog owner. It provides security and ease of use, making it a valuable tool for your pet’s well-being.
3. MidWest Homes for Pets Single Door Blue Folding Metal Dog Crate w/ Divider Panel
Rating: 8.8/10
The MidWest Homes for Pets Single Door Blue Folding Metal Dog Crate is a fantastic option for small dog owners. It’s designed to be a safe and comfortable space for your furry friend when you can’t be there. This crate is easy to set up and take down, making it super convenient for travel or just moving it around your home. Plus, the blue color adds a nice touch of style!
What We Like:
- It comes with everything you need: a divider panel to adjust the space as your dog grows, a tough plastic tray that’s easy to clean, and handy roller feet that protect your floors.
- The crate is built with strong metal and a secure slide-bolt latch, so your dog stays safe inside.
- Setting it up takes no time and requires no tools, and it folds flat for easy storage.
- MidWest Homes for Pets offers a 1-year warranty, showing their commitment to quality.
- It’s perfect for small dog breeds weighing between 13 and 25 pounds.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the roller feet are great for protecting floors, some users might wish for sturdier, more permanent feet if the crate will stay in one place long-term.
This crate truly offers a complete package for your small dog. It provides a secure den and is incredibly practical for daily life and adventures.
4. Amazon Basics Dog and Puppy Pee Pads
Rating: 9.4/10
Potty training your furry friend just got a whole lot easier with Amazon Basics Dog and Puppy Pee Pads. These pads are designed to be super absorbent and leak-proof, helping to keep your floors clean and dry during the training process or for everyday use with senior dogs. They come in a convenient 100-count pack, ensuring you have plenty on hand.
What We Like:
- 5-Layer Protection: These pads have a special 5-layer design. The top layer dries quickly. The middle layers turn liquid into gel. This stops leaks before they happen.
- Leakproof Design: A plastic bottom layer and a plastic border on all sides keep messes from spreading. Your floors stay safe.
- Built-in Attractant: These pads have something special that helps guide your puppy where to go. This makes potty training smoother.
- Eco-Friendly Materials: The pads are made from materials that come from well-managed forests and recycled sources. They are FSC-certified, so you know they’re good for the environment.
- Great for Many Uses: They are perfect for potty training puppies. They also work well for senior dogs who might have accidents. You can use them for car rides too.
What Could Be Improved:
- Absorbency Level: While they are super absorbent, some users with very heavy-duty needs might prefer extra-absorbent options for extreme situations.
- Size Consistency: A few reviews mention that the center absorbent area can sometimes shift slightly, though the overall leak-proof border usually still contains messes.
These Amazon Basics pee pads offer reliable performance for your pet’s needs. They are a solid choice for keeping your home clean and making potty training less stressful.
5. New World Newly Enhanced SingleDoor New World Dog Crate
Rating: 9.0/10
The New World Newly Enhanced SingleDoor Dog Crate is a solid choice for medium-sized dogs. It measures 30 x 19 x 21 inches, making it suitable for breeds weighing between 21 and 40 pounds. If your dog is on the heavier side of this range, it’s a good idea to go up a size for extra comfort.
What We Like:
- The security is top-notch with a patented Paw Block and locking tips on the slide-bolt latch, keeping your dog safely inside.
- It comes with everything you need: a divider panel, a leak-proof pan, special feet to protect your floors, and a carrying handle for easy transport.
- Setting it up is a breeze – it snaps together in seconds without any tools. It also folds flat for easy storage or travel.
- Safety and comfort are clearly a priority. The crate has rounded corners, good airflow, and a low door to make it a cozy, den-like space for your pet.
- This crate is made by a family business that has been around for over 100 years, and they offer customer support right here in Indiana. They really stand behind their products.
What Could Be Improved:
- While great for medium dogs, the sizing might be a bit tight for some breeds right at the upper weight limit, so checking measurements is key.
This crate offers a secure and comfortable space for your furry friend. Its thoughtful design and family-backed support make it a trustworthy option for your dog’s home.
Choosing the Right Dog Crate for Potty Training
Potty training a new puppy or a dog can be a big challenge. A dog crate can be a helpful tool. It gives your dog a safe space. It also helps with house-training. This guide will help you find the best crate.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a potty training crate, look for a few important things.
- Size: The crate should be just big enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Too big, and your dog might use one end as a potty spot. Too small, and it won’t be comfortable.
- Dividers: Many crates come with dividers. These are great for puppies. You can make the crate smaller at first. As your puppy grows, you can move the divider to make the crate bigger. This saves you from buying a new crate later.
- Door Type: Most crates have one or two doors. A front door is common. Side doors can be easier to place in certain rooms.
- Ease of Cleaning: Accidents happen, especially during potty training. Look for a crate with a removable tray. This makes cleaning up much easier.
- Ventilation and Visibility: Your dog should be able to see out and get plenty of fresh air. This makes the crate feel less like a prison and more like a den.
Important Materials
Dog crates are made from different materials. Each has its pros and cons.
- Wire Crates: These are popular and usually affordable. They offer good ventilation and visibility. They are also easy to set up and fold for storage. Wire crates can be a bit noisy if your dog scratches at them.
- Plastic Crates: These are sturdy and offer more privacy. They can be quieter than wire crates. Some dogs feel more secure in them. They can be heavier and harder to clean than wire crates.
- Wooden Crates: These look nice and can blend in with your home decor. They are usually very sturdy. However, they can be expensive and heavy. They also might not offer as much ventilation as other types.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
A few things can make a crate better or worse for potty training.
What Makes a Crate Better:
- Sturdy Construction: A well-built crate won’t bend or break easily. This keeps your dog safe.
- Secure Latches: Latches should be strong. They need to keep your dog inside and prevent escapes.
- Smooth Edges: Sharp edges or wires can hurt your dog. Good crates have smooth finishes.
- Easy Assembly: A crate that’s hard to put together can be frustrating.
What Makes a Crate Worse:
- Flimsy Materials: A crate that feels weak might not last long.
- Difficult Latches: Latches that are hard to open or close are a problem.
- Sharp Points: These are a safety hazard for your dog.
- Poor Ventilation: A crate with bad airflow can be uncomfortable for your dog.
User Experience and Use Cases
Many dog owners find crates very helpful.
- Puppy Potty Training: Dogs naturally try not to soil their sleeping area. A crate helps them hold it. You take your puppy out often. This teaches them to go outside.
- Safe Den: A crate gives your dog a place to feel secure. It’s their own special spot.
- Travel: Many crates are good for traveling with your dog. They can make car rides safer.
- Preventing Destructive Behavior: When you can’t supervise your dog, a crate can stop them from chewing furniture or having accidents.
Choosing the right crate is an important step. It helps make potty training smoother for both you and your furry friend.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I know what size crate to get for potty training?
A: The crate should be just big enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down. If it’s too big, they might use one end as a potty area.
Q: Should I get a wire crate or a plastic crate for potty training?
A: Both can work. Wire crates offer good airflow and visibility. Plastic crates offer more privacy and can be quieter. Choose what you think your dog will be most comfortable in.
Q: What is a crate divider and why do I need one?
A: A crate divider is a panel that lets you adjust the size of the crate. You can make it smaller for a puppy. As your puppy grows, you can move the divider to make the crate bigger, saving you money.
Q: How often should I let my puppy out of the crate during potty training?
A: Puppies need to go out very often, especially after waking up, after eating, and after playing. Take them out every 1-2 hours at first.
Q: My dog cries when I put them in the crate. What should I do?
A: Make the crate a positive place. Put treats or toys inside. Start with short periods. Never use the crate as a punishment.
Q: Can I leave my dog in the crate all day?
A: No, you should not leave your dog in the crate all day. Dogs need exercise, playtime, and social interaction. Limit crate time to a few hours at a time, or overnight.
Q: What if my dog has an accident in the crate?
A: Clean it up thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to remove all odors. This helps prevent them from soiling the same spot again. Make sure the crate isn’t too big.
Q: Are wooden crates good for potty training?
A: Wooden crates can be nice looking and sturdy. However, they can be harder to clean if accidents happen. Wire or plastic crates are usually easier for potty training.
Q: How do I introduce my dog to the crate?
A: Make it a happy place. Toss treats into the crate. Let your dog go in and out freely at first. Gradually close the door for short periods.
Q: What should I put inside the crate with my dog?
A: A comfortable bed or blanket is good. Some safe chew toys can also help keep your dog occupied. Avoid anything that could be a choking hazard or that you don’t want them to chew.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.