Smarty Pet Wire Dog Cage 18 inch (Small)

About Smarty Pet Wire Dog Cage

A crate gives a dog its own safe space at home, helps with house training and keeps a puppy out of trouble when you cannot watch. Smarty Pet Wire Dog Cage is a metal wire crate, 18 inch long, in the small size.

Wire crates let air flow freely and let your dog see what is going on around it, which many dogs find calming. They are also easy to clean and suit Indian summers better than closed plastic crates.

Used kindly, a crate becomes a den your dog chooses to rest in. It should never be used as punishment or for very long periods.

Available Pack Sizes

• 18 inch (Small) (this page)
• 24 inch (Medium)
• 30 inch (Large)
• 36 inch (XL)

Features and Benefits

• Metal wire build. Strong and well ventilated.
• Open view. Your dog can see and hear the family.
• 18 inch length. The small size in the range.
• For training and rest. Helps with house training, travel stops and quiet time.

Which Crate Size?

Measure your dog from nose to the base of the tail and add 10 to 15 cm. Your dog should be able to stand, turn around and lie stretched out. These breed examples are only a rough guide.

How It Works

• Step 1: Make it inviting. Put a soft bed and a favourite toy inside and leave the door open.
• Step 2: Meals inside. Feed meals near the crate, then just inside, then at the back.
• Step 3: Short closed spells. Close the door for a minute or two while you sit nearby, then open it before your dog fusses.
• Step 4: Build up. Slowly increase the time, and practise leaving the room for short periods.
• Step 5: Keep it positive. Use the crate for naps and quiet time, never as punishment.

How to Use

• Make it cosy. Add a washable bed or blanket and a chew toy.
• Introduce slowly. Feed meals near, then inside, the crate with the door open. Close the door for short spells and build up slowly.
• Placement. Put the crate in a living area, away from direct sun and heat.
• Cleaning. Wipe the bars and tray with mild soap and water, rinse and dry.

Safety and Precautions

• Time limits. Adult dogs should not be crated for long stretches during the day. Puppies need frequent toilet breaks.
• Remove collars. Take off collars with tags inside the crate so they cannot catch on the wire.
• Heat. Keep the crate out of direct sun and make sure water is available for longer stays.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size crate does my dog need?

Measure from nose to tail base and add 10 to 15 cm. Your dog should be able to stand, turn and lie down comfortably. This page is the 18 inch cage.

Is crating cruel?

Not when it is done kindly. Dogs are den animals, and a crate used for rest and training becomes a safe space. It should never be used as punishment or for very long hours.

How do I crate train a puppy?

Start with meals and treats inside with the door open, then close it for a few minutes while you are nearby, building up slowly.

Can I use the cage for travel?

Wire cages are best for home use. For car or air travel, a secured travel crate or carrier is safer.

How do I clean a wire cage?

Remove bedding, wipe bars and tray with mild soap and water, rinse and dry. Disinfect if a sick dog has used it.

Also in: Crates, Carriers and Pens for Dogs · All Dog Products

Product Information

Animeal shares this information to help you choose the right product for your pet. Product details are based on the brand's published information and the pack. If you have questions about your pet's health or diet, please speak to your vet.