What Crate Size Do Border Collies Need? Types, Material & Measurements
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Border Collies are constantly hailed as the smartest dog breed. Though training your pup should be relatively easy given its high intelligence, having certain tools and equipment at your disposal can make training even easier. A crate will be one of the most worthwhile investments for both you and your pup. A crate-trained Border Collie will help maintain your sanity while providing your dog with a safe place to retreat when necessary. Choosing the wrong crate size can do the opposite, however. We recommend a 42-inch crate size for a Border Collie.
Read on to learn how to choose the right crate size for your Border Collie.
What’s the Best Crate Size for a Border Collie?
The recommended crate size for a Border Collie is 42 inches, though some owners find it too large for their dogs. Depending on your pup’s size, you may be able to get away with a 36-inch crate. Only opt for the 36-inch option if your dog is on the smaller side or if you have a female Border Collie.
What Kind of Crate Is Best for a Border Collie?
The best crate for your Border Collie is one that comes with dividers. Opting for a small-sized crate when your dog is a puppy means you will need to buy another as it grows to ensure it has an appropriate amount of space to make its crate a cozy, safe space. One with dividers, however, can grow with your puppy, saving you money and allowing your dog to familiarize itself and become comfortable with just one crate. In addition, this can make training your Border Collie much easier as it won’t have to get used to different crates over time.
We don’t recommend buying a large crate without dividers for your dog when it’s a puppy. Too much space can create anxiety. When wild dogs choose their dens, they select spaces small enough to allow them to fit comfortably without being exposed too much. They need just enough room to lie, stretch, and sleep comfortably.
What’s the Best Crate Material for a Border Collie?
You might encounter two main crate materials as you look for the best option for your dog.
The most popular material, and the one we highly recommend, is wire. These crates often have dividers and can fold flat for easy storage and transport. In addition, most have plastic bottoms for simple cleaning, and their wire construction makes them almost impossible for a chew-happy Border Collie to destroy.
Soft-sided crates are made of canvas or nylon materials. They’re very lightweight but not the best choice as they can be chewed or destroyed easily. In addition, soft-sided crates are difficult to clean and typically don’t come in sizes suitable for Border Collies.
Plastic crates are lightweight and durable, but we don’t recommend using them as your dog’s permanent crate. However, they are useful if you must take your pup to the vet or travel via plane or car.
Finally, wooden options are great for Border Collie owners wanting something as aesthetically pleasing as it is functional. Wooden crates are pricier, but because they come in many beautiful designs, they can fit seamlessly with your décor. Unfortunately, wood isn’t the best option for Border Collies that like to chew. If you must have a wooden crate, we recommend waiting until your dog has outgrown its teething and toileting stages.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right crate for your Border Collie requires selecting the perfect size and most suitable material.
If you’re on a tighter budget, we recommend thinking ahead and choosing a crate for your puppy with dividers that it can grow into. However, don’t get one that’s too large for your puppy as it may find it uncomfortable, throwing a wrench in your crate training plans.
Most Border Collie owners prefer wire crates. However, if you like the look of wood, wait until your pup has outgrown its teething stage and is fully potty trained before investing in such a crate.
Featured Image Credit: Eudyptula, Shutterstock
