Wicker Dog Crates
The generic dog crate is often thought of as a metal cage-like structure, purely
designed to serve the purpose of housing a dog during sickness, travel or respite. We tend not to associate them
with anything other than functionality, and definitely not something which could fit in with the home
décor.
Wicker dog crates are the ideal solution. They serve the practical purpose of
restraint, yet can also be utilized as a stylish alternative to unsightly plastic dog beds and metal
cages.
Rattan and wicker woven furniture have long been style choices for conservatories
and dining rooms. Light-weight, yet robust and long-lasting, the natural wood aesthetics of wicker compliment
neutral decor and wooden flooring, as well as more traditional home interiors.
Quite simply, wicker is a style choice that will “fit in” with any interior
design, because it is so neutral. Wicker dog crates benefit from the same intricate craftsmanship and attention to
simple design that goes into the creation of even the most exclusive range of wicker furniture. Weaving in itself
is an art-form, which is why all wicker crates benefit from a sturdy finish, guaranteed to stand the test of
time.
Wicker dog crates are extremely versatile. Not only is a crate a functional
carrier, it can also be utilized as a “pet home” or bed, combining style with pet comfort. The majority of wicker
crates are designed with a basic wire or metal frame, and a reinforced plastic basket or base. The wicker is
decoratively woven between the wire/ metal frame panels for an attractive, easy-to-clean finish that will never
look out of place, anywhere.
Quality craftsmanship can often be determined by the wicker finish; whether the
wicker strips have been seamlessly cut and bound to the frame without any fraying or “stripping”. Several
manufacturers offer furnishing crates, purely designed as a style addition for the comfort of your pet. Often made
from wood, such crates often look more like tables than dog kennels.
Traditional dog crates are often used by owners for litter training, and whilst
being the ideal way of encouraging a pet to use one specific place, they are transparent, and litter is always
visible to children/ visitors. Affordable wicker dog crates are a great alternative because they are usually
completely enclosed, hiding the litter tray and reducing the odours that may be emitted.
Like traditional crates, the wicker variants are also a great addition to a
household where pets sometimes need to be contained. You may not always feel comfortable leaving a newborn in the
same room as your pet. Your pet may suffer from excessive anxiety when it comes to firework night, or be too
excitable when the postman knocks at the door.
You may need to contain your dog or cat while decorating. Crates are the perfect
solution for any such circumstances, and you can be assured in the knowledge your pet will be comfortable.
Domesticated animals such as dogs and cats are still extremely instinctive. Most are grateful for a dark bolt-hole
or bed when tired or confronted with (what they perceive to be) stressful situations – such as the hoover being
used.
Your choice of wicker dog crates is largely unlimited, as most brands manufacture
popular styles in a range of the most common sizes. Negotiating the right size largely depends upon your pet;
his/her breed, weight, height and length from nose to tail. While many brands offer guidelines regarding the
specific breeds a cage is suitable for, your beloved pet may be smaller or larger than the average.
Your first consideration should be floor-space – the basic width and length
dimensions of the cage. Rather than putting your pet through the stress of squeezing in and out of several models
in a pet-shop, take a tape measure while your pet is resting and measure the floor-space he/ she accommodates. Many
brands recommend that you add an additional six inches to the width, height and length measurements of your pet.
When choosing the cage, this will benefit your pet in terms of adequate head room, and ability to move around
within the cage comfortably. Of course, if you plan to use your pet crate as a functional bed area, you may wish to
purchase something larger.
Dog crates tend to be produced to five size variations, each recommendable for
certain dog breeds. Ascertaining the correct size largely depends upon the measurements and weight of your pet,
however, the following guidelines may be helpful.
- 24 Inch: Recommendable for small breeds such as the Jack Russell or
Chihuahua, weight not exceeding 25lbs.
- 30 Inch: Designed for pets weighing between 26-40lbs, and small breeds
such as the King Charles Spaniel or Tibetan Terrier.
- 36 Inch: Ideal for breeds such as Cocker Spaniels or Bulldogs, and
designed for weights of 41-70lbs.
- 42 Inch: The perfect size for Labradors or Boxers weighing
71-90lbs.
- 48 Inch: Often referred to as
extra-large, the 48 inch is perfect for super-size dogs such as Greyhounds and German Shepherds, weighing
90-110lbs.
Wicker dog crates are not only a versatile style solution, they're practical too.
Wicker does not absorb odour and can be instantly cleaned with a simple soap and water solution, which won't wear
or weaken the material. Most feature a plastic base which can be detached for ease of cleaning or storage, and some
are also elevated, ideal for polished wooden floors. For a tidy, stylish and comfortable pet bed or carrier
solution, wicker dog crates are ideal and will last you for years to come.
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