If this is first time you’re shopping for dog crates you may find it a little complicated. You may have noticed already that use of word kennel can be somewhat confusing. So before making a final selection it's a good idea to learn about differences between some pet containment systems. Equipped with this information you'll be ready to choose best crate for your dog.

How Can I Tell The Difference Between Dog Crates, Dog Kennels & Pet Carriers If They're All Called Kennels?

A “kennel” is a very general term meaning a place where dogs are bred or kept. By its very definition it can be used to describe a broad range of pet containment products such as pet carriers, dog crates, pet exercise pens and outdoor pet kennels.

For example, a wire kennel and a hard plastic kennel sound very similar because both are called kennels. In some ways they are very different. Depending on how you plan to use it there are certain features that you'll need it to have. This is why it’s very important to focus on features that you need. Only after carefully reviewing features of a specific model can you be certain that it will adequately fulfill all your needs.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

A wire dog crate or kennel is designed to safely contain your pet. But, it’s not designed to be picked up and moved around with your pet inside it. Although available in soft-side models, soft crates are usually not referred to as kennels.

A hard plastic carrier or kennel is designed so that your dog can safely travel inside carrier. Pet carriers also come in soft-side models. Soft pet carriers are not usually referred to as kennels.

Some hard plastic pet carriers make ideal dog crates, but a dog crate is usually not a good substitute for a hard pet carrier.

What Are Some Of The Basic Features of Dog Crates & Pet Carriers

Wire Dog Crates / Kennels

Used for crate training, housing breaking and as an everyday crate Many models are available with divider panels for growing puppies Can be used to contain your pet in a vehicle Available in collapsible or folding models Not approved for airline travel Offers most visibility and ventilation - well suited for heavy-coated dogs

Soft Dog Crates & Tents Soft crates & tents are light weight, portable, easy to set up & take down Can be used as an everyday crate Not approved for airline travel Pet must be well crate trained Not for diggers, chewers, aggressive dogs or dogs that experience anxiety while crated

Hard Plastic Pet Carriers / Kennels Hard plastic pet carriers are used to carry and transport pets Some models can be used as an everyday crate Many are approved for airline travel Not recommended for growing puppies since they don’t come with divider panels Can be used to contain your pet in a vehicle Available in collapsible models

Soft Pet Carrier Bags (for pets under 25lbs)

How often should you bath your dog?

How often your pet will need a dog bath will depend on breed and what type of activities dog is involved in. It’s best to bathe your dog only when your dog is really dirty. Just use your nose – that tell tale doggy smell will let you know it’s time for a bath.

If a dog is bathed too often skin will be stripped of its natural, protective oils. This will result in dry itchy skin, which will cause your dog to scratch, further irritating already sensitive skin. If you need to bathe your dog more frequently make sure to use a pet shampoo that will also moisturize your dog’s skin. You may also want to follow up with an after bath pet coat conditioner specifically formulated for dry skin.

Where’s best place to bath your dog?

In warm weather you can bathe your dog outside. Pick a place that will not turn to mud when it gets wet. It’s a good idea a have a washtub large enough for your dog to stand up in and fill it with a few inches of water. Water straight from a garden hose may start off warm, but usually gets cold very fast. If your dog starts to resist and shiver, as water gets colder, you may want to consider another option.

Many pet owners have overcome this problem by purchasing a raised dog bath. This convenient, back-saving dog bath is often used with a water temperature mixer valve assembly that completely solves this problem. With proper equipment set up you’ll be able to save your back and control water temperature of your dog’s bath. Some temperature mixer valve assemblies hook up to your existing washing machine water supply. At bath time just connect an ordinary garden hose to valve assembly and run it outside to bathing area. This convenient type of back-saving dog bath can even be used for bathing your dog inside.

If you choose to bathe your dog inside, regulating water temperature shouldn’t be a problem. But deciding where to bathe your dog might be. Small dogs and puppies can usually be bathed easily in a sink or a washtub. For bigger dogs you will need something bigger like a bathtub or a large shower stall. And of course, bigger your dog is bigger potential hassles.

Are you tired of chasing and wrestling with your dog at bath time?

Many dog owners solve this problem by purchasing a raised dog bath. An ergonomically designed dog grooming bathing tub elevates your dog to a level that’s comfortable for you and keeps your dog securely contained, taking hassle out of washing your dog. You’ll get job done in half time, save your back and stay dryer. The raised dog bath that is available in most pet shops and online stores will also save your dog stress at bath time. No more slipping and sliding. Your dog will really feel secure standing on padded non-slip surface. This type of raised dog bath has been recommended by Dog World Magazine in their "Notable Products for New Millennium".

Does your dog tend to get away from you during a bath?

Bathing your dog is a challenging, but essential, part of dog grooming. It’s funny how your dog will cleverly evade you when you try to get him into a dog bath, but will be just as determined to get past you when you don’t want him to jump into water at beach.

If you’re washing your dog in a room with a door make sure to close it so that your dog will not see an escape route or get very far if he prematurely gets out of bath. This way you’ll have an easier time getting him back in tub to finish job. It can be a challenge bathing a dog that’s wiggling around but challenge gets a little tougher when your dog is an escape artist. If your dog takes any opportunity to get away from you at bath time you may want to consider restraining your dog.

Restraints are used during bath time to avoid injury to you as well as your pet. Some pet bathing tubs come with restraints included. With these your dog will be safely and securely restrained and you will be able to give your dog a quick and hassle-free bath.

Is your dog slipping and sliding in bath?

Slipping and sliding can be most stressful part of bath time for a dog. Put a rubber mat down on bottom surface of tub to prevent your dog from sliding and getting hurt. A sure-footed dog will be less resistant and much more at ease during bath time.

Things to have on hand at bath time:

Raised Dog Bath – This is a fantastic idea for a dog bath. It’s ergonomically designed for both you and your dog’s comfort. Your local pet groomer is likely to have just such a bathing station set up in their shop. If you’re thinking about buying a tub or basin to bathe your dog in, ask them if you can check out their tub set up. If you have room or more than one dog, you may find it worthwhile.

Pet Shower or Plastic Pitcher – A Pet Shower is great, but if that’s not possible make sure you have a large plastic pitcher for wetting and rinsing your dog.

Drain Screen – Make sure to protect your plumbing from hair clogs with a simple to use drain screen.

Cotton Balls – can be placed in each ear to prevent water from running into your dog's ears.