Which Outdoor Dog Kennel is right for you and your Dog?

Choosing the right Outdoor Dog Kennel for your Dog, can be confusing. There really are about 2 main types of Dog Kennels. The Indoor Dog Kennels- which are primarily Wire & Plastic and the Outdoor Dog Kennels- both Modular & Portable. The indoor dog kennels do tend to limit the space you can set up for your dog. And since we are talking about outdoor dog kennels right now, we won't go into those right now.

What is the difference between a Modular Dog Kennel and a Portable Dog Kennel?

-There are 2 main differences- 1^st is size. Modular kennels tend to be larger and sturdier. While Portable dog kennels are smaller and lighter. 2^nd, Modular dog kennels are stationary, meaning once you have chosen a place outside for your kennel, then this is usually where you will build it and it will stay. They also tend to cost more, then a Portable dog kennel. This is mainly due to there construct, made of heavier materials and built to last. Portable Kennels tend to be smaller, mainly because they can be moved from place to place more easily. Portable dog kennels give you the convenience of multiple location choices in your yard or even deck. Portable kennels can be easily lifted and moved, without the need to completely break down and reassemble- like you would need to do if you were moving a modular kennel.

-Outdoor Modular dog kennels can be a real asset for the dog owner that needs a secure place to keep there pet when outside. These are usually large enough that you can also include a dog house with watering and feeding stations. That way, your pet can stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Modular dog kennels are also a great way to keep your dogs from destroying your lawn. By kenneling your dogs when they are outside, you not only train them to eliminate in a specific place, but also save yourself a lot of time and money trying to save your lawn form urine and fecal damage.

-Portable outdoor dog kennels are also very useful, especially if you have a small or limited space outside. These dog kennels are ideal when you need to kennel your dog for shorter periods of time. Like during a family get together or back yard barbecue. Portable outdoor dog kennels can help to eliminate your concerns about what your dog may have gotten into or if someone might accidentally leave the back gate open, and your pet runs off.

-There is a wide variety of styles and sizes for both modular and portable dog kennels. Be sure to research different types of outdoor dog kennels. 

-Plan your space out. Remember to ask yourself these questions before buying a dog kennel."What needs do I have that the do kennel must fulfill"?, "Where is the  dog kennel going to go"?, "Do I want to be able to move the dog kennel easily"?, "Are my dogs going to spend short or long periods within the kennel"?, "What am I willing to spend"?. Once you have answered these questions, you will have a clearer idea of which outdoor dog kennel is right for you and your pet.

**Helpful hint- some breeds, especially of the hunting class are very adept at climbing chain link. They have been known to escape an outside dog kennel this way. For these agile breeds it may become necessary to attach a Kennel Cover over the top of your dog kennel, to prevent any escapes from happening. Safety is the number one priority when placing your dog in an outside dog kennel. Acclimate your dog slowly to his new outdoor home. First, by actually going into the kennel with your dog and spending a few minutes in there praising him (you may even give him some treats at the same time). Then as you leave and close the kennel door- pass a few treats through the chain link while continuing to praise him. Walk away quietly, just away from your dogs sight. If he begins to whine- don't go over right away, let him get to know his new home without your interference and he will settle in much quicker. Then after he has quieted down, go over and let him out, this will help to reinforce that he is not locked in forever. Over a short time, he should be completely comfortable in his Outside home.

*Use caution when introducing a high anxiety breed to an Outside Kennel. If left alone too long before they have become completely acclimated, they could injure themselves. These dogs may need a slower introduction to kenneling. Just be consistent and don't give up!

A great source for Dog Kennels, Dog Crates and Pet Carriers is our own Site at www.Kennelsncrates.com!