Having problems finding the best dog crate for small dogs? It is in fact not an easy task to find a good and durable dog crate for small dogs. If you own a breed like Chihuahuas, you will want to purchase a dog crate for them, as dog crates do help with separation anxiety. Separation anxiety can be an issue for your dog if they are often left alone for long periods of time.
Many dog owners will think that dog crates are inhumane to their pets, and that is why they refuse to purchase them. Dog crates are only inhumane if you misuse their intended purpose! Dog crates are used by dogs as a safe haven when the owner is not in the house. They often seek refuge in the dog crate when they need comfort. Do not use the crate as a tool for punishment!
Best Dog Crate For Small Dogs
MidWest Homes for Pets 18″ iCrate Double Door Dog Crate
This is the most popular choice of a dog crate for small dogs. It can fit all small dog breeds, which includes Chihuahuas, Pomeranian, and Yorkshire Terriers. It measures 18L x 12W x 14H inches, and it is also specially made to be portable, hence making it the best portable dog crate for small dogs!
The plastic pan is easy to clean, and this dog crate for small dogs also provides a free divider panel. This dog crate is ideal for dogs weighing up to a maximum of 6 pounds. The edges of this dog crate are rounded, hence it will not accidentally injure your dog.
This dog crate for Chihuahua also comes with double doors, making it easier for you or for your dog to access the dog crate. Usually, owners do buy a crate bed alongside, so that their dog can lie comfortably inside the dog crate.
Pros: A perfect fit for all small dogs. Portable and easy to clean.
Cons: No top access point.
Our Rating: 
(4.9 / 5)
Petnation Indoor/Outdoor Pet Home, 16-Inch, for Pets up to 10 Pounds
While not exactly a dog crate, it can serve as one, and at the same time, it can be used as a portable dog crate too.
The Petnation Indoor/Outdoor Pet Home is suitable for small dog breeds too. It is perfect for dogs weighing up to 10 pounds. At first glance, it might look flimsy. But the mesh fabric panels are actually surrounded by an extra-strong steel frame!
It measures 16 x 11 x 11 inches, and it is easily collapsible. If you are worried that the entire pet home is too warm for your dog, you will be glad to know that the windows are meshed together like a honeycomb. This actually encourages positive airflow throughout this dog home. There are also two openings for easier access.
This extremely durable dog home for small dogs is perfect for your Chihuahua or other small breed dogs. It is also easy to clean the Petnation Port-A-Crate. You simply have to clean up the pet waste and wipe down the material with an odor remover, and you are good to go again. If you need to do a thorough cleaning, remove the cover from the steel frame and throw it together with your regular laundry.
Usually, owners do buy a crate bed alongside, so that their dog can lie comfortably inside the dog crate.
Pros: Highly portable.
Cons: Soft material, hence might be prone to chewers.
Our Rating: 
(4.7 / 5)
What Is The Purpose Of A Dog Crate
Dog crates serve different purposes, and it will be good for us to explore a little bit more about them before we go into the topic properly.
We don’t mean your dog breaking into your house to steal treats or any snacks. Housebreaking for dogs means potty training the dog. Housebreaking for dogs should be done at a young age. This is because puppies are more susceptible to dog training than when they are older.
There will be times at which you would want to bring your dog out with you on your extended travels. This is when portable dog crates will be useful for you.
Containment
Dogs love to be comforted all the time. So imagine the scenario in which no one is at home at all. The dog will seek comfort, and the only place that it will feel safe is in a dog crate.
How To Select The Best Dog Crate For Small Dogs
It is important for us to select a dog crate that is just right for our small dog. For simplicity’s sake, we are going to use a chihuahua as a gauge here.
Chihuahuas are extremely small in size, and therefore care must be taken to ensure that the dog crate for the chihuahua is not too big nor too small for the dog. If the dog crate is too big, it will not be effective in crate training for the chihuahua. In addition to that, the chihuahua will not be able to feel safe inside the large dog crate too. Also, when the crate is much larger than the chihuahua, you would have a problem trying to housebreak the dog. They will feel that there is ample space in the crate, and they will simply relieve themselves in a corner of the crate.
If you decide to purchase a dog crate that is too small for your chihuahua, then your chihuahua will feel extremely confined in it. They wouldn’t have the space to maneuver around, and they will not enter the crate at all in the future.
Here are additional tips that
Size
The size of the crate is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a dog crate for your small dog. Small dogs, such as Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, and Yorkies, will require a crate that is specifically designed for their size. A crate that is too big will not provide the necessary security and comfort that your pup needs, while a crate that is too small will be cramped and uncomfortable.
When measuring for the perfect size crate, it’s important to take into account the size of your dog when they are fully grown, as well as its current size. This will ensure that the crate will be the perfect fit for your pup as they grow.
Material
The material of the crate is another important factor to consider. Metal crates are a popular choice for small dogs, as they are durable and easy to clean. However, they can be quite heavy and may not be the best choice for dogs that are prone to anxiety.
Plastic crates are also a popular option, as they are lightweight and easy to transport. They are also easy to clean and can be used for both indoor and outdoor use. However, they may not be as durable as metal crates and may not provide the same level of security for your dog. Wire crates are another option, and they offer a good balance of durability and ventilation. They are also easy to clean and can be used for both indoor and outdoor use. However, they may not provide the same level of security as metal or plastic crates.
Durability
When choosing a dog crate for your small dog, it’s important to consider the overall durability of the crate. The last thing you want is for your pup to escape or for the crate to fall apart. Look for crates that are made with high-quality materials and have a sturdy design. It’s also important to consider the durability of the locking mechanism. Look for a crate that has a secure locking mechanism that will keep your pup safe and secure.
What Is The Best Size For My Chihuahua?
To choose the best dog crate for Chihuahua, the Chihuahua must be able to stand up, turn around the sides and lie down without touching any part of the crate, excluding the base of the dog crate. As for the height of the crate, do make sure that there is enough headroom when the Chihuahua is sitting down.
If you are unable to let your dog try out any of the dog crates, then use the following measurements as a guide.
First, measure the distance from the top of your dog to the floor when he is sitting down. Add about 6 inches to that number, and you would have the approximate height of the ideal dog crate. Similarly. measure the distance from the dog’s nose to the end of the tail, and add about 4 inches. This is the approximate length of the dog crate.
There is a strong tendency for small dogs, or at least in the case of the Chihuahua, to bark incessantly when they are alone. If that is the case, you can consider purchasing bark collars for Chihuahua or bark collars for small dogs. Also, you might want to consider purchasing the Elitefield Dog Crate. If you are looking into soft dog crates, then read the Soft Dog Crate review that we have written.
