Your best friend deserves the best when choosing a kennel. Crate training is popular among pet owners, and many dogs prefer the sense of security they feel when sleeping in their kennels. There are many options available that won’t break the bank, but cost shouldn’t be the determining factor in providing for your pooch.

Your first step is to make sure your kennel matches to your dog’s weight, but there are other things to consider when making your decision.

Chew-happy dogs can be destructive and highly effective escape artists. Kennels made of metal (wire, welded tubing) generally stand a better chance than plastic, wood or soft-sided options.

Unless your kennel is in a permanent location you’ll need to consider how heavy it is and how easy it is to move around. Collapsible/foldable crates are popular, but some are easier to collapse and re-assemble than others, and even when collapsed they can be heavy as well as awkward to move and store. Some crates feature wheels, with the better ones swiveling and lockable.

Dogs shed dirt and hair in addition to the occasional 'accident.' Many crate or kennel products feature removable plastic trays beneath, which makes cleanup a breeze.