Dogs are commonly referred to as den animals, and Shih Tzus are no exception. As such, it’s instinctual for them to seek comfort in cozy spaces. Therefore, having a crate for a Shih Tzu in your home can improve the dog's quality of life. Besides, crate training can also be used to keep your dog safe when you can’t supervise them and to prevent bad habits like chewing. And when it comes to potty training your Shih Tzu puppy, a crate can also be a helpful aid.
However, with so many options for dog crate sizes and styles available in the market, it can feel overwhelming to choose the right one for your little Shih Tzu dog. Here are a few things you should take into consideration.
When shopping for the best dog crate for your Shih Tzu, look for one that is the proper size. In other words, look for a crate that will keep your Shih Tzu comfortable. If you're an aesthetic person, you'll want a crate that'll blend into your decor. After all, you’ll want to place the dog crate in an area where you and your family hang out, so your "little lion" can be near you. As mentioned earlier, one important feature you should look for in a dog crate is its size. In the crate, your Shih Tzu should be able to sit, stand, and lie down comfortably. You don't want a crate that's too small, and having a dog crate that's too large isn’t ideal either.
A too-large dog crate could encourage your pup to defecate within the crate because they can sit away from the mess. On the other hand, a too-small dog crate could lead to negative feelings about the space and make crate training unpleasant for the dog. So, it’s important to base the size of the crate on your Shih Tzu’s measurements. The Shih Tzu is a toy dog breed with a height of 8 to 11 inches and a body length of roughly 15 to 17.5 inches. With measuring tape, measure your dog from the tip of its nose to the tip of its tail to determine its length. To determine your dog's height, measure them from the top of the head to the bottom of the feet. Then, add 4 inches to each measurement to determine the size of the dog crate you'll need for your Shih Tzu.
Keep in mind, when shopping for a crate, that a crate mat or dog crate bed will take up additional space. So, when taking your Shih Tzu’s measurements, make sure to account for the type of bedding you plan to use. For a Shih Tzu puppy, consider an expandable crate. These crates include a divider panel that allows you the adjust the interior space as your puppy grows.
For a full-grown Shih Tzu, I'd recommend a 24 x 18 x 20-inch dog crate. Here are the four best dog crates for Shih Tzus.
1. The MidWest Homes for Pets Metal Dog Crate
The sturdiest dog crate you can buy is a metal one. Moreover, metal crates provide good air circulation and visibility and are best for dogs who tend to chew on household items. What's more, these crates are easy to assemble and clean. Metal crates are not the most aesthetically pleasing, however, a fabric dog crate cover can beautify them. The MidWest Homes for Pets Metal Dog Crate measures 24.8"L x 17.9"W x 19.5"H, which is the ideal size for your Shih Tzu. It includes a divider panel and a leak-proof plastic pan. The crate, which features a carrying handle, is foldable and easy to set up.
2. A Wooden Dog Crate
Wooden dog crates are attractive and are usually the priciest option. That's because they double as pieces of furniture, like end tables, to blend with your home decor. The DWANTON Wooden Dog Crate measures 27.2" L x 20.1" W x 23.6" H, which is suitable for small dog breeds like the Shih Tzu. It is chew-resistant and includes a matching cushion. The crate, which can be used as an end table or nightstand, features two doors for versatile placement. It is available in other colors as well.
3. A Plastic Dog Crate
You can use a plastic dog crate, also called a dog kennel, both in the house and on the go. When shopping for a plastic crate, you should look for one that’s well-ventilated and airline-approved if you plan to fly. The Petmate Vari Dog Kennel, for example, is well-ventilated and airline-approved. It measures 28" L x 20.5" W x 21.5" H. Its interior dimensions are 24.2" L x 18.2" W x 19.5" H, making the crate suitable for Shih Tzus.
4. A Soft Dog Crate
Soft or fabric dog crates are best for a small dog breed like the Shih Tzu who isn’t going to chew on it. Like plastic crates, soft dog crates can also serve as travel carriers for dogs. They are lightweight, foldable, and easy to assemble. This Petsfit Soft-Sided Dog Crate is an ideal choice for Shih Tzus, as it measures 26"L x 19"W x 18"H. It features a three-door design to ensure ample ventilation and is designed with your dog's safety in mind.
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