Should you cover a dog crate?

What UK organisations say

This article answers one question from our step-by-step guide to crate training.

• The PDSA says: "A blanket over the top and sides (leave the front open) can make the crate cosier by helping to block out noise and draughts."¹
• The RSPCA says: "Placing a cover over part of the crate can help nervous dogs."²
• Dogs Trust says: "You can cover the top and sides with a blanket to exclude draughts and reduce sounds from outside," and that this is "particularly helpful during fireworks"³.

How to cover a crate

1. Use a blanket or a made-to-fit crate cover.
2. Cover the top and sides^1,3.
3. Leave the front open¹, so your dog can see out and air can get in.
4. Make sure your dog can't pull the cover into the crate and chew it. We suggest tucking or fixing it on the outside.
5. Check the crate is still in a spot out of direct sunlight¹. A cover can make a crate warmer.

When covering helps

• Noise and draughts. The PDSA and Dogs Trust both mention blocking draughts and outside sounds^1,3.
• Nervous dogs. The RSPCA says covering part of the crate can help².
• Fireworks. Dogs Trust says covering is particularly helpful during fireworks³.

Keeping it safe

• Leave the front open¹.
• Don't let the crate get hot: keep it out of direct sunlight¹, and we suggest a lighter cover in warm weather.
• Keep water available².
• Check for chewing. If your dog chews the cover, take it away.
• A fabric crate already has solid sides. The PDSA says fabric crates aren't suitable for puppies or dogs that chew¹. See wire or fabric crate?

If your dog is frightened

A cover can help a nervous dog feel more secure², but it isn't a fix for fear or anxiety. If your dog is frightened in its crate, during fireworks or when left, speak to your vet or a qualified behaviourist.

Breed crate guides

Every breed needs a slightly different crate. These guides cover UK size guidance for the breed, sizes in each brand in inches and cm, and how to measure.

• French Bulldog crate sizeSizes by brand, measuring and fit
• Pug crate sizeSizes by brand, measuring and fit
• Border Collie crate sizeSizes by brand, measuring and fit
• Whippet crate sizeSizes by brand, measuring and fit

Find your dog's crate size All breeds

Questions

More on harness fit

• Crate training, step by stepThe complete guide
• How long can a dog stay in a crate?Crate training guide
• Should my dog sleep in a crate?Crate training guide
• Your puppy's first nights: crate or bed?Crate training guide