If you’ve ever heard of a dog crate cover, you may be wondering if it’s safe for dogs.
Will it help your dog sleep? Do dogs like it? Why do you even need one?
Those are all great questions, and we’ll going to share exactly why crate covers are safe for dogs.
Article Summary
Should You Cover Your Dog’s Crate? Yes Or No?
When it comes to covering dog crates, it’s generally safe to do so as long as you use an actual crate cover.
You’ll want to avoid covering your dog’s crate with a blanket primarily because he could mistake it for a potty area. Not to mention, a thick, heavy blanket could make your dog’s crate unbearably hot.
If you are unsure whether or not you should cover your pup’s crate, be sure to talk with a vet.
What Are The Benefits Of Covering Your Best Pal’s Crate?
A crate cover can turn your pup’s crate into a “den”; as a result, many dogs feel extremely safe in it—that is, if you successfully crate train them [1]. If your dog ever feels scared or anxious, he’ll be much more likely to retreat to the den rather than a dark corner.
Even the best dog crate will need a cover to help dogs feel more at ease. A covered crate can also help your dog sleep better since it can block out light. Your best pal can go into his den anytime he wants to rest.
When Do You Need To Use A Crate Cover?
Depending on your best pal’s unique needs, you may need to cover his crate throughout the day.
Although most dogs don’t need their crate covered during the day, you may need to cover your pup’s crate if he is suffering from depression and anxiety—check out the signs of anxiety in dogs. If your dog likes to take a nap during the day, you may also choose to cover his crate.
Your pup’s crate should definitely be covered at night. When you cover your pup’s crate at night, you’re significantly lowering external stimuli, which will ensure that he gets a good night’s sleep. You’ll also notice that your dog is less likely to pace or whine at night when his crate is covered.
What Should You Use To Cover A Dog Crate?
The absolute best way to cover your pup’s crate is with an official dog cover. A dog crate cover can be purchased online or at a pet store. Make sure that you buy one that’s really durable and machine washable.
If you want to try covering your pup’s crate with something that you already have, a soft, lightweight fabric could work as a DIY dog crate cover. The soft, lightweight fabric will ensure that your pup’s crate has enough ventilation.
As previously discussed, you should avoid covering your pup’s crate with a blanket. You also don’t want to cover your pup’s crate with anything too heavy because it could fall off of the crate.
What’s The Best Way To Introduce Your Dog To A Covered Crate?
As far as introducing your dog to his new den, you’ll want to do it gradually. A dog’s natural instinct to stay inside a den should help you in crate training.
The best way to do it is to cover your pup’s crate every night for a week or so. You’re less likely to startle your pup because it’s dark.
As your dog gets used to his new den at night, you can start covering it during the day. If your dog looks tired, maybe encourage your dog to take a nap in his new den. You can even guide your dog to his new den if he’s feeling anxious or depressed.
Over time, your dog should associate his new covered den with home. A properly trained dog considers his crate as his own safe and happy space where he can feel relaxed and comfortable.
You can also introduce your dog to a crate cover during crate training.
How To Keep Your Pup Comfortable In A Covered Crate
Try these great tips to ensure that your dog stays comfortable in his crate.
- Place a few interactive toys in the crate so that your dog can play if he gets bored.
- Give your dog a small dog blanket to keep him warm. Just make sure your pup is fully potty trained before doing this.
- Throw a few dog treats in the crate. Your dog will enjoy eating some yummy treats.
- Buy Fido the best dog bed he can have for the crate
- Make sure the crate is positioned in a quiet place so that your dog can get some rest.
- Choose a dark crate color because it won’t distract your pup
FAQ
1. Should I put a cover over my dog’s crate?
It’s generally safe to put a cover on your pup’s crate. Just avoid covering his crate with a blanket. Your dog could potty on the blanket if he has not had crate training, and the blanket could make him feel extremely hot.
If you are concerned about covering your pup’s crate, you’ll want to talk with a vet before doing so.
2. Is it OK to cover a dog crate at night?
Most dogs actually sleep better when their crate is covered, so it’s usually okay to cover their crate at night.
If you find that your dog is scared of the cover, you should remove it and try another one or talk with a vet about your concerns.
3. Can a dog suffocate in a covered crate?
If you place a blanket or heavy fabric on a dog crate, your best pal can definitely suffocate due to lack of airflow. Your best pal can also become too hot if you cover his crate with a blanket or heavy fabric.
An official dog cover is the best way to cover your dog’s crate.
4. Are crate covers cruel?
Just like crate training, crate covers are a controversial topic. The truth of the matter is that they are only cruel if dog owners cover their dog’s crate the wrong way.
Many official crate covers are designed to offer pups many benefits, but they aren’t meant to be detrimental.
If your dog is unhappy with the crate cover, you should remove it and try another one. You may also want to talk with a vet if it doesn’t seem to be working for your dog.
