Not only do they allow your kitty to go in and out of the house on their own, but they also help conserve energy by preventing heat or air conditioning from escaping through open doors or windows.

While the right cat door can be a great addition to your home, the wrong cat door can create a lot of issues:

• Some cat doors can be very difficult to fit onto your door
• Depending on the materials you may have issues with a cat (or other pets if you have them) destroying the material
• Depending on the fit and materials of the cat door, you could be creating a draft or allowing bugs into your home

Our vet advisor, Dr. Jennifer Coates, DVM, reviewed dozens of cat doors to find the best of the best and chose the PetSafe Extreme Weather Dog and Cat Door as her top pick. With a 3-flap design to keep the weather out and a snap-on panel to close off access when needed, this easy-to-install, reasonably-priced cat door is an excellent choice for most cat owners.

Our Vet’s Top Pick

PetSafe Extreme Weather Dog and Cat Door

For the best in cat doors, look no further than the PetSafe Extreme Weather Dog and Cat Door.

$61.95

Buy on Amazon

While this was Dr. Coates’s top choice, she also offers a series of her top tips for what to look for in choosing the best cat door, a section on who should avoid purchasing a cat door, and she personally selected the best cat door for a variety of specific use cases.

The 5 Best Cat Doors

1. Best Overall – PetSafe Extreme Weather Dog and Cat Door
2. Best Budget – Purrfect Portal Interior Cat Door
3. Best for Windows – Ideal Pet Products Aluminum Sash Window Pet Door
4. Best Microchip – SureFlap DualScan Microchip Cat Door
5. Best for Sliding Glass Doors – PetSafe 1-Piece Sliding Glass Door for Dogs and Cats

Cat Doors Compared

Here are the top picks from our veterinarian. Compare the ratings and features of different models.

*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers

Who Should Buy a Cat Door

• Pet owners with cats that are allowed outside – cat doors are useful for letting cats in and out of the house as they please.¹
• Cat owners who want to manage their cat’s access to different areas – a cat door can be used to separate cats, allow access to your dustless cat litter box without letting other pets into the room, and more.²
• People who want to save energy – a well-insulated cat door keeps cold air out in the winter and hot air out in the summer. This is definitely preferable to leaving windows or doors open!

Who Should Not Buy a Cat Door

• Pet owners with indoor cats – if you have an indoor-only cat that’s allowed access to your entire home, you don’t need a cat door (unless you have an enclosed catio or cat run). However, cats that are allowed to roam outdoors should have a way to get in and out of the house.
• People who live on high floors of apartments or condos – unless you have a way of securing your balcony, your cat should not go outside.

Buying Guide: Research Tips From a Veterinarian

As a veterinarian, I often get asked how to choose a good cat door. Here are some tips and best practices to consider when purchasing the right cat door for your kitty. Be sure to do adequate research on the product you are considering purchasing to look for key features and talk to friends and family who are pet owners to learn what types of cat doors have worked well for them.

Your veterinarian can also point to any features that might be ideal based on your cat’s health status, age, or size. In addition, it’s a good idea to read product descriptions closely to avoid unpleasant surprises. Looking at customer reviews posted on trusted sources can give you an idea of how satisfied pet owners are with their purchases.

1. Decide what you want to use the cat door for – cat doors can serve multiple purposes in your home. When used inside, you can allow cats access to their own spaces while keeping other pets or children out. They’re also great for hiding litter boxes! Additionally, cat doors can give your cat free access to the outdoors but in a controlled manner, like just onto a catio or only at certain times of the day.
2. Select a cat door that’s easy to install – installation of cat doors can be tricky, so look for products that have good written instructions and/or videos.
3. Buy from a manufacturer that offers replacement parts – the ability to purchase replacement parts will extend the life of your cat door.
4. Look for a cat door that can be easily locked – good cat doors should have the option of being closed and locked to keep pets on one side or another when necessary.

How Much Do They Cost?

Between $30 and $200

For most cat doors, you can expect to pay between $30-$200 and still get a high-quality product. The price you’ll pay will depend on several factors, including size (larger cat doors tend to be more expensive) and the type of materials used. At the top end of this price range, you can find microchip cat doors that use a sensor to detect your cat’s microchip and unlock them automatically. This is a useful feature for preventing other animals from entering your home.

Our Methodology: Why Trust Pet News Daily

I’ve evaluated these cat doors based on my professional experience as a veterinarian combined with product feature considerations. I judged the cat doors on a variety of criteria, including ease of installation, design, and price as well as how safe and easy to use they would be for cats. You also want a cat door that’s made from durable materials that will withstand daily wear and tear. – Dr. Jennifer Coates, DVM

The Best Cat Door Reviews

1. Best Overall – PetSafe Extreme Weather Dog and Cat Door

Our Vet’s Top Pick

PetSafe Extreme Weather Dog and Cat Door

For the best in cat doors, look no further than the PetSafe Extreme Weather Dog and Cat Door.

$61.95

Buy on Amazon

The PetSafe Extreme Weather Dog and Cat Door is an energy-efficient cat door with more than 3,000 overwhelmingly positive reviews. Standout features include a 3-flap design that will keep the weather out and a handy snap-on panel that blocks off access when needed.

The cat door comes complete with a paintable frame, allowing you to match the color of your door. You can also choose an aluminum frame if you prefer a more modern look. Replacement flaps are available in case yours gets damaged, and the unit comes with detailed instructions and installation hardware for quick setup.

2. Best Budget – Purrfect Portal Interior Cat Door

Best Budget Buy

Purrfect Portal Interior Cat Door

This affordable cat door can be placed in solid and hollow core doors.

$29.95

Buy on Amazon

The Purrfect Portal Interior Cat Door is a budget-friendly cat door that’s specially designed for indoor use. It’s easy to install and can be placed in solid or hollow core doors. This cat door also features a unique no-flap design, which means you won’t need to train your cat to use it.

The simple cat door is ideal for allowing your feline friend access to their litter box or food while keeping larger pets or children out. It’s good for cats up to 20 pounds and an XL model is also available. Reviewers say this cat door is practical, functional, and easy to set up.

3. Best for Windows – Ideal Pet Products Aluminum Sash Window Pet Door

Best Cat Door for Windows

Ideal Pet Products Aluminum Sash Window Pet Door

This high-quality aluminum-framed cat door is specially designed for sash windows.

$103.70

Buy on Amazon

Looking for a cat door that allows your cat to go in and out of your sash window? The Ideal Pet Products Aluminum Sash Window Pet Door is a perfect choice. It’s designed for use in the window frame so you won’t need to cut any glass, and it’s easy to uninstall or move if needed.

The sturdy cat door features a rigid see-through flap that’s lockable for added security. This product is also available in a chubby cat version for kitties with a little extra weight. Overall, it’s a simple, well-built cat door that’s designed to last.

4. Best Microchip – SureFlap DualScan Microchip Cat Door

Best Microchip Cat Door

SureFlap DualScan Microchip Cat Door

An easily programmable microchip cat door that effectively keeps out stray and wild animals.

$177.98

Buy on Amazon

The SureFlap DualScan Microchip Cat Door is designed to allow only your cat access through the flap. It works with your cat’s existing microchip or RFID collar tags (sold separately) to keep out stray or wild animals.

This cat door is ideal for multi-cat households as it can be programmed to only let specific pets go outdoors. Quickly and easily set exit permissions for up to 32 pets and change the settings at any time. The versatile cat door can be installed in windows, doors, or walls with appropriate adapters.

5. Best for Sliding Glass Doors – PetSafe 1-Piece Sliding Glass Door for Dogs and Cats

Best Cat Door for Sliding Glass Doors

PetSafe 1-Piece Sliding Glass Door for Dogs and Cats

An energy-efficient cat door for sliding doors.

Buy on Amazon

Looking for a cat door that can be installed in a sliding door? The PetSafe 1-Piece Sliding Glass Door for Dogs and Cats is an excellent option. It’s easy to install and made of strong, durable materials. It also comes with a closing panel to limit exit and entry, and a magnetic closure to keep bad weather and pests out.

The cat door is available in multiple colors and sizes with clear instructions for measuring and selecting the right door. The energy-efficient cat door also features a handy security lock, tough aluminum frame, and tempered glass panel. This pet door is great for rental properties since it quickly installs in your existing sliding door tracks without damaging the door or wall.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Go Slowly

When introducing dogs, you should always go slowly. It may take time for your dog to warm up to another dog, especially if they are nervous. If at any point it seems as if either dog is becoming aggressive or very scared, stop the introduction process and try again later. It may take several short on-leash introductions before your dog feels comfortable with another dog. If your dog is aggressive or extremely fearful, you may want to seek help from your veterinarian or a certified dog trainer.

2. Ask For Help

It will take two adults to safely and properly introduce two dogs. Also, don’t be afraid to reach out to a certified dog trainer, veterinarian, or veterinary behaviorist if you are having trouble introducing your dog to other dogs. Especially if your dog is aggressive, you should seek professional help to introduce your dog to other dogs to avoid the risk of harm to the dogs or the people involved in the introduction.

3. Meet on Neutral Ground

The best place to introduce your dog to another dog is on neutral ground.¹

Your dog may become fearful, protective, or aggressive if you introduce the new dog inside your house.²   Allow both dogs to meet outside your home or a park. It is best to choose a place where there are not many other dogs or people so your dog doesn’t get overwhelmed or distracted.

4. A Barrier Can Be Helpful

It may help to start the introduction with a chain-link fence or slatted wooden fence in between the dogs. This will give the dogs an added barrier in case they start showing signs of aggression or fear. The openings in the fence will allow them to smell one another and interact without fear of them getting into a fight. This added layer of protection is vital for successfully introducing dogs.

5. Keep Both Dogs on a Leash With an Escape Proof Harness

When you introduce two dogs, this should always be done with both dogs on a leash. This will allow you to be in control of the introduction. It can also be helpful to use a no escape dog harness to decrease the risk of one dog slipping out of their harness. The harness and leash can help you quickly end the introduction if necessary.

6. Take the Dogs for a Walk Together

If the two dogs seem to be getting along during the initial introduction on-leash at a neutral area with a barrier in between, you may be able to take them for a walk together. Find an area where you will be able to walk the dogs together with some distance between the two dogs. A walk can be extremely helpful because it allows the dogs the opportunity to become a bit more acquainted with each other while still being on-leash.

7. Read Body Language

As you go through this process, be very aware of both dogs’ body language and closely monitor the interaction. A happy dog will wag their tail and look comfortable and relaxed. If your dog’s hair is standing up or if they are growling, staring, or baring their teeth, this may be a sign that your dog is not comfortable with the introduction.³ If your dog exhibits any signs of fear or aggression, stop the introduction immediately and try again later or seek professional help.

8. Try a Short Off-Leash Interaction

If at this point, neither dog has shown any signs of fear or aggression and both dogs seem happy with one another, you might consider trying an off-leash interaction after your successful initial on-leash introduction. Keep the session short and closely monitor both dogs so you can quickly separate them if an issue arises.

9. If All Goes Well, You Can Try an In-House Introduction

For dogs that seem to get along well outdoors, you may be able to now introduce the two dogs inside. Hide any toys, food, bones, or treats so there will be no items to fight over. I also recommend placing a baby gate between the two dogs when you first introduce them together inside to make sure the dogs will still be comfortable interacting with each other inside. If both dogs seem comfortable, you can then try removing the baby gate and closely supervising the dogs.

What Should You Not Do When Introducing a Dog?

When introducing a dog, you should not immediately allow the dogs to interact off-leash. This gives you no control over the situation and will not allow you to easily stop the introduction if things aren’t going well. You should also not try to introduce two dogs by yourself. You will need someone else to help you with the introduction process.

Finally, you should never try to force an aggressive or fearful dog to meet another dog.⁴ If your dog is aggressive or fearful, it is best to avoid introductions with other dogs unless under the guidance of your veterinarian, veterinary behaviorist, or certified dog trainer.

Why Do Dogs Fight?

Dogs fight for a variety of reasons. Most of the time, fighting has an underlying cause. Though there are a few bad apples out there who may fight for no reason, that is the exception, not the rule.

We used to discuss a dog’s pack mentality and some inherent need to belong to a social structure or hierarchy. People thought motivation for behavior was to earn a higher “place” in that hierarchy. Over the past 20 years, this philosophy and theory have been disproven. We have a better understanding of dog behavior today, allowing us to better interpret their impending actions. And it has become very apparent that most dogs fight in response to a threat or external stimulation that they feel is a threat.¹

When discussing strategies to stop dogs from fighting, we need to learn a bit about why dogs fight. This requires a better understanding of signs of aggression, anxiety, and fear in dogs and learning proper strategies to prevent clashing. By recognizing these signs ahead of time, you can learn to diffuse a situation. You should also know how to stop fighting if it occurs and how to remain safe in the event of a fight.

6 Strategies to Stop Dogs from Fighting

Step 1: Know Key Triggers for Fighting

Understanding the factors contributing to fighting can help you know your dog’s behavior and anticipate a problem before it occurs. It can also let you identify triggers for your pet. You can then learn to avoid the triggers or work on positive training cues that will refocus your dog’s attention and allow you to prevent a fight.

Dogs may become aggressive with dogs they know, such as a housemate or playmate, or a stranger. The reasons for fighting may include:

Protecting Behavior/Resource Guarding

This can arise when a dog is protecting their property or territory (i.e., a strange dog in your yard)² or another animal or human in the family.³ A dog may also display aggression when protecting food or prized possessions, such as toys or balls.⁴⁵

Overstimulation/Excitement

Why would getting excited or playing too much cause aggression? This occurs when they get super aroused. They do not have an outlet to expel excess energy. Some dogs run around doing zoomies, others eat things they shouldn’t, and yet others will fight with the first dog they see.⁶ Overstimulation can occur when engaging in everyday activities or with new events.

Understimulation

While too much stimulation can provide sensory overload and stress, the opposite is just as true. Lack of exercise, mental stimulation, or physical contact with family members can also lead to aggressive behaviors.

Redirection (Redirected Aggression, Anxiety, or Fear)

Redirection can occur when the animal acts out on the closest thing to them. For example, UPS rings the doorbell. The dog can’t get to the delivery person but can go attack his housemate nearby.⁷ This is a common cause of interhousehold aggression.⁸

Attention Seeking

Dogs may display aggression when seeking attention because their owners are paying attention to another pet or a child in the home or when non-family members are present in the home.⁹

Underlying Medical Reason

Dogs who are in pain or sick may show it in a variety of ways. If aggression develops, have your pet evaluated by a veterinarian to rule out underlying medical reasons.

Not All Dogs Like Other Dogs

Just like humans don’t always get along with one another, some dogs simply don’t like other dogs at all, or a dog may dislike a particular dog. ¹⁰

No Trigger At All

Though the exception, not the rule, some dogs are innately more likely to be aggressive to other dogs. However, likely there is still a trigger we just didn’t witness.¹¹

Step 2: Recognize Signs of an Impending Fight

By recognizing signs of anxiety or fear before your pet escalates to fighting, you can stop fighting in its tracks. By learning to recognize the differences between regular play vs. aggressive play, you can monitor for escalation. To do this, we need to discuss some of these normal behaviors.

Signs of Play and Relaxation in Dogs

Knowing what behaviors are normal during play is crucial. When dogs play together, they will often bite or nip around the neck and jump up on each other, but their bodies will remain loose; they may play bow. They’ll have relaxed ears and eyes when playing.¹²

See Table 1  for some common behaviors shown by a relaxed dog.

TABLE 1: Signs of content, calm dog, even playful dogs. Adapted from Canine and feline behavior and handling¹³ and Animal Behavior and Rabies.¹⁴

Signs of Fear, Stress, or Anxiety in Dogs

Stressed dogs often show subtle signs that may alert you that play or other behavior changes to something of concern.

A dog can go from playful to aggressive with what seems like the flip of a switch. You may not understand the switch or even witness it, but if you can recognize signs of stress and take action, you can prevent a fight from happening.

See Table 2 for communication cues expressed by dogs who are stressed and anxious.

Table 2. Behavioral indicators of stress and anxiety. Adapted from Canine and feline behavior and handling¹⁵ and Animal Behavior and Rabies.¹⁶ with additional resources from Bites Bite! Avoid Being Bitten in This Field!¹⁷

Signs of Impending Aggression – “Fight Preparation”

Signs of impending aggression may vary depending on the dog. Some dogs may show some of the stressed or anxious behaviors listed above and then may suddenly, with what seems like no warning, attack. However, most of the time, there are subtle shifts that occur. We just have to learn to recognize them.

These changes can be to overall body position, ear position, tail position, body tension, even a shift in the eyes or mouth.¹⁸ You may see them raise their hackles. This is when the fur stands up on their back, making them look bigger. They may even growl/vocalize before attacking another dog. Finally, if the dog is barking, the bark’s tone may alter slightly, becoming deeper or more intense.¹⁹

Step 3: Don’t Put Your Dog in a Position to Fail

Take steps to minimize the risk of a fight even arising.

Stranger Fighting

• CONSIDER tying a visible yellow ribbon around your dog’s neck/collar/leash.²⁰
  • This will alert others to approach your dog with caution, or ideally not at all.
  • It can be used for aggressive dogs, fearful dogs, training dogs, dogs with exercise restrictions or arthritis, and not just dogs who fight.
  • It serves as a caution warning to others, saying to stay clear.
• Avoid dog parks or heavily populated walking routes. Go for walks at off hours of the day to minimize exposure.
• Use an escape proof harness (read our review of escape proof harness) to ensure that you can keep control of your dog.
• Always be alert for animals or other triggers for anxiety. Turn and walk your dog the other way.
• Ensure the pet is confined in a physical (not invisible) fenced-in yard at home or only on a leash when off property.

Interhousehold Fighting

The best way to try and stop dogs from fighting in your home is to maintain a consistent routine. Ensure all social interactions are predictable and comfortable for all animals involved.²¹ Consider the following additional items to minimize fighting.

• Avoid having 2 females or 2 males; rather, one of each may be less likely to fight.²²
• Do not allow pets to share crates. Place crates so dogs cannot see each other.²³
• Keep them in separate rooms or parts of the house when you are not home.
• Allow the dogs only short playtime together, making sure that they take breaks independently. Allow 2-5 minutes of rough play, and if they do not disengage on their own, then distract them or encourage separation.
• Always feed separately. (Own dishes, own rooms, different times of day, whatever works).
• If fighting occurs most commonly when you first arrive or depart, ignore your pets for the first 10-30 minutes upon arrival and before leaving. Sounds counterintuitive, but they are less likely to be so excited, and it lessens the chance of redirected aggression. The sooner the dogs settle, the sooner they get the attention they seek. They are not rewarded for being too excited or hyper.²⁴²⁵
• Walk scared or anxious dogs separately from those who are more likely to fight. This minimizes distractions for you both, increasing the likelihood of a successful stress-free walk. Any stressor could trigger displaced feelings and manifest as fighting if dogs are walked together.

Step 4: Always Remain Calm

Dogs are very good at reading human emotions. So if you are stressed, they will sense it. If you scream and yell at them and are loud and boisterous because you see another dog coming in the distance, you are only going to increase that pet’s own anxiety and stress level.²⁶

When you see a subtle shift in your dog’s behavior or you see that dog across the street, remain calm. Project calmness and confidence to your pet but speak in a normal tone and reassuringly to your dog.

By yelling and screaming, you only increase the chance that the dog will react, thinking there is a threat. To some dogs, remember, threat equals a fight response.²⁷

Step 5: Provide Sufficient Exercise and Mental Stimulation for Your Pet

Always ensure that your dog gets enough exercise. Leash walks, running around a yard, playing at a park are essential for exercise. But don’t forget mental stimulation like sniffing time, food toys and puzzles, dog training such as cooperative care, and more. Failing to stimulate the mind can lead to boredom and acting out behaviors.²⁸

Step 6: Know How to Safely Break Up a Fight in the Event One Occurs

• You can consider:²⁹
  • Throwing a blanket over them or between them
  • Throwing water over them
  • Using a loud distracting noise like a foghorn, whistle, or symbol. There are phone apps that you can use to create odd sounds.
  • Use a heavy enough object such as a chair that can keep you protected but could get between them.
• For more detailed suggestions on how to break up a dog fight, see this link by an emergency veterinarian Tony Johnson, DVM, DACVECC.

A Few DOS AND DON’TS To Always Keep in Mind

• DO learn to recognize cues.
  • Know your dog.
  • Recognize what stresses your dog.
    • Suppose you are on a walk, and the dog starts to get tense, ears erect, pulling towards another animal. Then you can redirect attention with treats or a favorite toy and walk the other way.
  • Don’t put you or your dog in a situation that could escalate to a fight.
• DO know your environment and where problems may arise.
  • A specific house on a walk with a dog inside a fenced in yard
  • The Amazon delivery driver coming to the door
  • When you first come home from work and both dogs greet you at the door
• DO INTERVENE
  • For dog siblings, supervise play.
    • If play becomes too rough, the dogs aren’t taking breaks every few minutes on their own, or their body language changes, intervene. Get their attention and change their focus.
    • If body posture or alertness shifts during play, try calling their names and distracting them.
    • If they do not respond to sounds and happenings around them, they may be too hyper-focused. You should stop play for a bit.
  • For strangers, make sure, as above, you are familiar with your surroundings, and you have an alternate route or plan.
• DO separate dogs when you aren’t home and only allow short, supervised play.

Remember that aggression often occurs in response to some external situation that scares the dog or overstimulates them. Still, some dogs just don’t like other dogs. These dogs, you simply must avoid interactions with other dogs, period.

Too Late, They Fought. Now What?

• DON’T attempt to break up two dogs by putting yourself in the middle. You will get hurt.
  • During a fight, your dog isn’t thinking about mom or dad, no matter how gentle your dog is with you. The adrenaline is sky high, and the fur is flying. You WILL get bitten.

• DON’T kick, beat, or otherwise use instruments to hurt the dogs. Not only can this hurt them, but it also can cause them to redirect their aggression onto you.³⁰

Sometimes, however, you cannot prevent fighting 100% of the time. If a fight ensues, once the dogs are apart, get space between you, so they are out of sight and out of mind. Then thoroughly check your dog for any apparent open wounds, blood, soreness, but do so tenderly. If painful, the pet may bite you inadvertently.

Even if you don’t find any wounds, that doesn’t mean they aren’t there. Sometimes it can take time for the wounds to become evident. So do not delay care. Waiting even 24 hours can allow pain and infection to set in. So, after a fight, even if wounds aren’t evident, seek care from your veterinarian.

Finally, always ensure your pet’s rabies vaccine is up to date. Suppose you do not know the dog’s vaccine status the pet was fighting. In that case, it is safer to assume the dog is unvaccinated and get your pet’s rabies vaccine boostered.

Final Thoughts

You can still enjoy long walks, the park, playing with your dog, and much more, even if dog fighting concerns exist. Just take care to do it with preplanning. Know your dog and watch for subtle body language changes that may suggest your dog may become aggressive. Provide proper enrichment and activities to ensure your dog has suitable outlets for energy and prevent built-up frustrations. It may take some effort, but with planning, training (of both you and your dog), and patience, most of the time, we can stop dogs from fighting.

In addition to helping you address issues with dogs fighting, we have a number of other resources dedicated to your dog’s well being. You can check out our guide to choosing the right vet recommended dog ear cleaner for your pup, our list of the best dog hair dryer, and our run-down of the best dog clippers for poodles.

Additional Resources

• Yellow Ribbon around the collar, leash, neck. For more information, visit:
  • Yellowdoguk.co.uk
  • What does a yellow ribbon on a dog’s collar mean?
• Body Language of Fear in Dogs. An image demonstrating various signs of fear in dogs. (Originally adapted from Dr. Sophia Yin, 2015.)
• If your dog is aggressive, being able to safely apply a muzzle is an asset. Muzzle use training: The Muzzle Up Project aims to educate and train on the safe use of muzzles and animal behavior.
• Understanding your dog’s body language

Many dogs realize what they have done and might give their most convincing guilty face and sad puppy dog eyes, while the more outwardly mischievous dogs revel in the mess they have made with pride and excitement. There are several reasons why your dog might get into the trash including boredom, curiosity, and hunger. However, the trash can be a dangerous place for a dog, and dog owners should do everything they can to prevent their from dogs making a garbage romp a habit and ensure they can’t ever get into the trash in the first place.

Why You Should Keep Your Dog Out of the Trash

Not only is cleaning up the trash mess your dog makes an inconvenience, but your dog could get sick or injured from getting into the trash. When a dog eats old or rotten food from the trash, they are also ingesting harmful bacteria which can cause an upset stomach leading to vomiting and diarrhea – other messy inconveniences no one wants to clean up!¹

This form of gastroenteritis is also known to many as garbage gut.²  Some of these harmful bacteria and other organisms can release toxins, making dogs even more sick and dehydrated. Dogs who have gotten into the trash could also get pancreatitis which is inflammation of the pancreas.³ Like gastroenteritis, pancreatitis can also cause vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration, but can be more severe and include abdominal pain and be bad enough to require hospitalization for treatment.⁴

Some items dogs consume from the trash might not be able to be digested. Items such as fabric, corn cobs, bones, diapers, or literally anything else, could become lodged in the gastrointestinal tract and cause a blockage. While some abnormal items could pass, items that cause a gastrointestinal obstruction must be surgically removed.⁵ This is dangerous for dogs and expensive for owners.

Many items in our trash are poisonous to dogs. Some of the most common toxins found in the trash can are chocolate, grapes, coffee, xylitol, chemicals and detergents, onions, garlic, and more.⁶

Not only can ingesting poisonous or harmful items from the trash make your dog ill, but some objects found in the trash could also injure your dog. Pieces of glass, sharp pieces of plastic, disposable silverware, and other sharp items could cut your dog or cause internal injuries if they are chewed on or swallowed. Some items might even be a choking hazard and cause an obstruction in a dog’s airway or esophagus.⁷

If your dog is sick from eating something in the trash can or you are worried about a toxin, obstruction, or other harmful substance that your dog ingested, take your dog to the veterinarian right away. If your dog has ingested something toxic or potentially toxic, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control on your way to your vet.

8 Ways to Keep Your Dog out of the Trash

Now that you know how important it is to keep your dog out of the trash can, here are some tips to help keep your dog out of the trash.

Prevent Boredom

A common reason dogs will find themselves rummaging through the garbage can is because they are bored. Make sure your dog receives plenty of enrichment to keep his or her mind stimulated and to keep your pooch busy.⁸ Offer safe chews and toys such as Kongs and other toys that you can put treats inside. Turn on the television for a distraction if your dog enjoys watching it.

If you know your dog will be unattended for some time or gets bored easily, take them for a long walk, play fetch, or go for a visit to the dog park to provide your dog with some play time beforehand. Tiring your dog out as much as possible will help ensure he or she is napping instead of playing in the trash.

Provide Enough Food

If your dog gets into the trash because he or she is hungry, make sure you are feeding enough food at mealtimes. Maybe your dog needs to be fed twice a day instead of once, needs more food, or requires more appropriate food to keep them full and satisfied.

If you are leaving the house before your dog’s mealtime or are gone for longer than usual, make sure your dog is fed before you leave or you provide dog appropriate treats to keep their hunger at bay and keep him out of your trash. If you are worried that your dog isn’t getting the necessary nutrients to keep him satisfied, consult your veterinarian.

Get a Dog Proof Trash Can

If your dog can get into your trash can, it might be time to upgrade to one that is dog proof. Make sure they are large, sturdy, stable, and have a locking or secure lid to keep your dog out. Avoid small trash cans and those that are lightweight and easy to topple over.

Hide the Trash Can

If your space allows, put your trash can in a hidden or otherwise secure area. This could be in a closed pantry, in a cupboard or cabinet, under the sink, or some other covered place where your dog doesn’t have access to it.

Lock the Trash Can

Put child or pet safety locks on trash cans or find trash cans that come with a locking mechanism to keep your dog out. These can be found online or at your local hardware store.

Confine your Dog

It sounds pretty obvious, but keeping your dog in an area where they don’t have access to a trash can will physically prevent them from getting to it. Keep your dog in a large kennel if he is kennel trained, a separate room with the door closed, in a room or area with baby or pet gates up, or a separate floor or another part of the house.

Train your Dog

Even a well-trained dog might not be trusted not to get into the trash, but it can be a start. Ensure your dog can listen to basic commands such as “no” or “leave it.”⁹

The best way to make sure your dog knows the trash is off-limits is to catch your dog in the act of getting into the trash. It is hard to discipline and make your dog understand what they are doing is wrong if the deed is already done and you come home to a mess.

Train your People

This one may also seem pretty obvious, but be smart about your trash and make sure others are conscious about the trash and the dog. Don’t put meat or other good-smelling food into the trash and leave your dog unattended with access to it. Take out your trash often and don’t let it overflow.

Keeping your dog out of the trash is important not only for their health and safety, but also for your sanity!

Beyond that, if you’re looking for additional products to help keep your puppy healthy and happy, we also have a series of buying guides to help you select the best ear cleaner for a dog, the best clippers for dog grooming, the best dog hair clippers for poodles, the best dog blow dryer, and our guide to finding the best brush for Australian Shepherds.

The games the two of you play together can go well beyond fetch. Many of the games on our list work inside or out and can be modified for dogs of all sizes, ages, and energy levels.

1. Hide-and-Seek

Hide and seek isn’t just for kids. Dogs love it too. To play hide-and-seek one on one, your dog will need some basic obedience skills. She’ll need to understand come, stay, and sit.

Take your dog into a different room, and tell her to sit and stay. You get to hide in another room. Keep in mind that dogs have an incredibly powerful sense of smell.² Get creative in your choice of hiding spots because chances are she’s going to find you pretty quickly.

If she’s still working on obedience, you can play this game with the dog and two people.³ One person stays with and reminds the dog of their sit and stay commands. The other person gets to do the hiding.

2. Obstacle Course

An obstacle course lets your dog practice obedience while getting some exercise and working on agility.⁴ Chances are you’ll get a little exercise, too.

Obstacle courses work indoors and out. Since you get to make the course, you can also adjust it to fit your dog’s fitness and agility level.⁵ On a rainy day, you can use pillows, your dog’s indoor dog house, dog toys, and chairs to create a course that takes your dog over, under, around, and in between.

In the outdoors, use everything at your disposal—a swing set, stairs, and patio furniture can all become part of the fun.

3. Pole Bending (aka Cardio Twist or Upright Poles)

If you’ve ever watched a rodeo, you might have seen pole bending. It’s a timed event that requires the horse and rider to weave in and out of six poles. A similar event, upright poles, is used in dog agility events.

Most people don’t have poles lying around, so get creative. Grab some buckets, chairs, or pillows (if you’re inside). The first time through, have your dog follow you as you weave through the poles.

As she starts to understand the game, use hand cues and see how fast (or slow) she can complete the poles. Work on obedience by making your dog stay by your side as you change speeds, forcing her to pay attention to you.

4. Hidden Treasure

This game requires you to hide your dog’s “treasure.” The treasure could be a favorite toy or a treat. If you’re playing indoors, hide the treasure under a box, behind a door, or somewhere else that makes your dog work to find it.

You can use hidden treasure to work on your dog’s nose skills, too. Don’t walk directly to the hiding spot. When you hide the toy, drag or touch it to objects along the way. Zigzag, touching objects as you go. Then, go under and over all kinds of obstacles. Then, make your dog sniff her way to the treasure.

5. Tug-of-War

Dogs love this game. It’s simple, fun, and burns energy. You can use a tug toy specially made to take the forces of a dog who loves to pull. It’s also fun when you have two dogs who like to play together.

However, (and this is a big however) it’s not the best game for every dog. Fearful dogs may growl or become aggressive when someone takes a toy. If that’s the case, keep moving down the list for a game that won’t trigger your dog’s fears.

6. Ready, Set, Down!

Obedience lies at the heart of this game. You want to get your dog really excited about something like going for a walk or playing fetch. Once she’s really excited, give her a different command like “sit” or “stay.” When she obeys, give her a treat, and the game starts again.

Use this game to help your dog learn listening skills when she’s excited. As your dog gets better at playing, you can up the difficulty. For example, ask your dog to drop the ball in the middle of a game of fetch or tell her to sit. When she does, treat her, and start playing again.

7. Flirt Pole

Flirt pole works well in small yards with limited space. Attach a toy to the end of a rope (or fishing pole if you’ve got an old one sitting around). Now start spinning. Your dog gets to chase the toy.

You can use this game as an obedience and listening tool. Make your dog sit and stay while you spin or run with the toy. Extend the time you spin before releasing her from stay to practice listening and obedience skills.

8. Frisbee (Disc Dogs)

Disc dogs is an actual sport, but you can do it at home without requiring your dog to do any fancy catches. It’s an alternative to fetch that uses a frisbee, giving you and your dog a change of pace.

A frisbee requires your dog to consider timing and work on coordination. Of course, if you want to get fancy, there are online classes or YouTube videos to teach you a few of the more demanding moves.

9. Bubbles

Bubbles are just as magical for dogs as they are kids. Start blowing or pull out a bubble machine to get your dog hopping on a sunny day. She might need encouragement the first time or two, but before long, she’ll get ready to pop when the bubbles come out.

The Wrap Up

Games serve multiple purposes for your dog. They keep her fit, active, and offer a fun way to work on training. It also gives the two of you some time to focus on each other, and that’s what being a dog owner is all about.

If you’re looking for more information on how to keep your dog fit and their minds occupied we have a series of resources on how much your exercise your dog needs, how to train your dog to use a treadmill (along with a guide to buying the best treadmill for your dog) along with a number of training guides including tips for getting your puppy to sleep through the night, training your dog to stay out of a room you don’t want them in, a guide to crate training a puppy, and a guide to training a dog to pee outside, an article on keeping your dog out of the trash (along with a guide to choosing the best dog proof trash cans),

Our vet advisor, Dr. Amanda Jondle, considered the features of dog-proof trash cans to find the absolute best available. She looked at locking lids and costs, as well as ease of cleaning. With the automatic sensor that will allow you to dump your waste hands-free and the durable construction, it’s no wonder that she chose the iTouchless 13 Gallon Pet-Proof Sensor Trash Can as her top pick. Read how she chose the top 5.

Our Vet’s Top Pick

iTouchless 13 Gallon Pet-Proof Sensor Trash Can

For the best in dog-proof trash cans, look no further than the iTouchless 13 Gallon Pet-Proof Sensor Trash Can.

$94.99

Buy on Amazon

While this was Dr. Jondle’s top choice, she also offers a series of her top tips for what to look for in choosing the best dog-proof trash can for your pup, a section on who should avoid purchasing them altogether, and she personally selected the best trash can for a variety of specific use cases.

The 5 Best Dog-Proof Trash Cans

1. Best Overall – iTouchless 13 Gallon Pet-Proof Sensor Trash Can
2. Best Budget – Sterilite 12.6 Gallon Locking Lid Step On Kitchen Wastebasket
3. Best Automatic – hOmeLabs 13 Gallon Automatic Trash Can
4. Best Indoor/Outdoor – Keter Baltimore 38 Gallon Trash Can
5. Best Step-Open – simplehuman 55 Liter Rectangular Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can

Trash Cans Compared

Here are the top picks from our veterinarian. Compare the ratings and features of different models.

*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers

Who Should Buy a Dog-Proof Trash Can

• Those with curious pets – If your dog is into everything, then that curiosity likely extends to the trash can. For the pet parent struggling with that curiosity, a trash can that she can’t get into is invaluable.
• Garbage gut dog owners – For some dogs, a half-eaten plate in the trash can prove irresistible.¹ Getting into certain trash can cause inflammation in your dog’s pancreas, and harmful bacteria can lead to a sick or dehydrated dog.²
• Puppy parents – Though your puppy may be the sweetest thing to have ever lived, there’s a good chance she’ll touch on both a curious and a gobble stage with regards to your trash can (for some other ideas on things that can help as you get your new puppy home check out our checklist). Stay a step ahead and puppy-proof the trash can now!

Who Should Not Buy a Dog-Proof Trash Can

• Trash cans are hidden – When your trash can is kept in the closed pantry, then you probably won’t see much of a benefit to making that trash can dog-proof.
• Owners of tiny or lazy dogs – It may go without saying but of course, you won’t need a trash can that’s dog-proof if your dog has no interest, or ability to topple it over or get into it.

Buying Guide: Research Tips From a Veterinarian

When looking for a dog-proof trash can the most important features for me would be:

1. Stationary lid – When looking at the lid, find one that stays in place and is not removable. If the lid is too easy to take off, your pup will definitely figure it out.
2. Hands-free opening – Whether it is a step or automatic, a hands-free opening means that it’s more likely to
3. Large, sturdy, and stable – If you pick a trashcan that won’t tip over easily, you’ll find it more difficult for pets to knock over even when they’re empty.
4. Locking lids – With a lock on the lid of your trash can, pets still can’t get into the trash, even if it does get knocked over.
5. Easy to clean – A nice, appealing look is a plus, but a sleek design will make it all the easier to keep clean.
6. Think of the trash bags – Finding a standard-sized trash can may be well worth it for the convenience of easy-to-find trash bags that fit

In addition to making your trash can dog-proof, you’ll probably also want to consider ways to train your dog to stay out of the trash, or at least out of a room that you keep the trash in. Keeping your dog active will go a long way toward keeping your home pet-friendly.

How Much Do They Cost?

Between $50-$120

The amount of money you spend on a dog-proof trash can will vary depending on the quality, size, and, more likely, just how dog-proof you want the trash can. You can find a simple plastic trash can with a locking lid for around $20, but if you’re looking for a stainless steel, automatic trash can your dog simply will not ever be able to break into, then you’ll spend closer to the $160 range. Depending on your priorities, you can expect to spend roughly $50-120 on a dog-proof trash can.

Our Methodology: Why Trust Pet Life Today

As a veterinarian, I’ve seen plenty of dogs in my office with poor reactions after getting into their owner’s trash. Not only that, but the complaints I hear from puppy parents about the messes dogs can make getting into their trash is nearly constant. Between my experience and my discussion with my vet colleagues, we’ve found some of the best solutions for your dog’s trash tendencies. – Dr. Amanda Jondle

The Best Dog-Proof Trash Can Reviews

1. Best Overall – iTouchless 13 Gallon Pet-Proof Sensor Trash Can

Our Vet’s Top Pick

iTouchless 13 Gallon Pet-Proof Sensor Trash Can

For the best in dog-proof trash cans, look no further than the iTouchless 13 Gallon Pet-Proof Sensor Trash Can.

$94.99

Buy on Amazon

The iTouchless 13 Gallon Pet-Proof Sensor Trash Can is a hands-free trash can that you can open with just a move above its automatic sensor. The Pet Guard keeps it locked against pets, meaning you won’t have to worry about your fur baby’s motion opening it.

It is large and sturdy and comes in a few different styles and sizes, making it the epitome of convenience and pet-proof for any room in your home.

2. Best Budget – Sterilite 12.6 Gallon Locking Lid Step On Kitchen Wastebasket

Best for Budget

Sterilite 12.6 Gallon Locking Lid Step On Kitchen Wastebasket

For a trash can that will keep your dog out, but won’t break the bank, try the Sterilite 12.6 Gallon Locking Lid Step On Kitchen Wastebasket.

$52.69

Buy on Amazon

The Sterilite 12.6 Gallon Locking Lid Step On Kitchen Wastebasket comes in a two-pack to make pet-proofing your home all the easier. You can add this trash can to the most frequented rooms to keep your pup’s curiosity from getting him into trouble. The lock is so durable that you won’t need to worry about your smart dog unlocking it.

While this is a lighter weight and less sturdy option, it does have a step to open and a lock to protect against pets.

3. Best Automatic – hOmeLabs 13 Gallon Automatic Trash Can

Best Automatic

hOmeLabs 13 Gallon Automatic Trash Can

If you’re looking for a hands-free trash can to keep your dog out, consider the hOmeLabs 13 Gallon Automatic Trash Can.

$119.99

Buy on Amazon

The hOmeLabs 13 Gallon Automatic Trash Can has a motion sensor that will open the lid of your trash can automatically, but should you ever be interested in a more direct approach, you can choose the manual feature to make it all the more difficult for your dog to open. The butterfly opening lid will provide a less convenient opening for the dog, so even should he manage to open it, it’s still not a given he’ll be able to access the contents.

The smart ring bag will hide the bag from view, so your pup won’t be able to pull on the trash bag, and it also makes changing them so much easier.

4. Best Indoor/Outdoor – Keter Baltimore 38 Gallon Trash Can

Best Indoor/Outdoor

Keter Baltimore 38 Gallon Trash Can

If you’re interested in an indoor/outdoor trash can to keep your pet out, check out the Keter Baltimore 38 Gallon Trash Can.

$77.77

Buy on Amazon

The Keter Baltimore 38 Gallon Trash Can is an excellent locking trash can that will keep your pup out, for sure. You may not love how difficult it is for even you to get into this trash can, but if you absolutely need to keep your dog out, this will definitely do it! It’s a durable design, but if that means you’re not keen on putting it in your home, the good news is that it will work excellently in your outdoor location, as well.

The added bonus of this trash can is that it will keep out any other critters, too – so it’s perfect if your dog or your raccoons are prone to digging through your trash.

5. Best Step-Open – simplehuman 55 Liter Rectangular Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can

Best Step-Open

simplehuman 55 Liter Rectangular Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can

The simplehuman 55 Liter Rectangular Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can is a one-step operation that your dog won’t be able to master.

$179.99

Buy on Amazon

The simplehuman 55 Liter Rectangular Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can is a clean, large, sturdy step trash can that is engineered to last over 150,000 steps. It will allow you access to your trash without making it too accessible for your pup.

It comes in a variety of three different sizes and four colors. While it doesn’t have a locking lid, its hands-free opening and lid make it especially difficult for dogs to open.

Obviously one big issue related to sleeping is having a comfortable bed. We created a series of guides that you might find useful here, where we outline the best waterproof dog bed, the best outdoor dog bed, the best elevated dog bed, and the best sofa dog bed.

8 Vet Tips on How To Get a Puppy To Sleep Through the Night

1. Develop a Routine

The first step to getting your puppy to sleep through the night is to develop clear and consistent bedtime routines. Try to go to bed at the same time every night so your puppy understands when it is time for sleep. At the start, your puppy will likely be waking you up pretty early in the morning to go outside to potty. This is very normal for the first 4 to 6 months of age.

2. Bathroom Break Before Bed

It can help to take your puppy outside just before bedtime. Puppies have extremely small bladders so by taking them out to the bathroom right at bedtime, you will likely get more hours of whine-free sleep. You may even try taking them on a quick bedtime walk to make sure they pee and poop.

3. Lots of Exercise!

If your puppy just wants to play at bedtime, then they are likely not getting enough exercise during the day. Be sure that you are exercising your puppy for at least 20 to 30 minutes around 3 times per day. ¹Some high-energy dog breeds may need even more exercise than that! For exercise, you could play fetch in the yard, take your puppy for a walk, or just play with toys inside. Any kind of physical activity can help your puppy sleep better at night.

4. Mental Stimulation

A bored puppy will not sleep well at night. During the day, make sure you are giving your puppy mentally stimulating tasks. I recommend trying out interactive puzzle toys to keep their brain active. You could also try filling a Kong with their meals, or you could try another treat-dispensing toy.

5. Try Crate Training

You might be wondering “should a puppy be crated at night?” Some puppies will do better in a crate at night, but only if they have been properly crate trained. You should choose a heavy-duty crate that is easy to clean in case your puppy has an accident. Make the crate comfortable by adding a soft puppy bed or comfy blanket.

6. Give Them Something To Chew On

Right as you put your puppy to sleep, consider giving them a chew toy that will keep them occupied for a while. Puppies that are teething may appreciate having something to chew on during the night. Opt for safe chew toys that your puppy won’t be able to destroy. For puppies, I usually recommend soft Nylabones for puppies or Kong chew toys.

7. Midnight Potty Break

Puppies under 4 to 6 months of age will likely not be able to sleep fully through the night without having accidents. Most puppies can’t hold it for more than 3 to 4 hours, which means you will likely have to let your puppy out once in the middle of the night. If you know what time your puppy usually starts whining to go outside in the middle of the night, try setting an alarm 15 minutes before that time so you can let your puppy out before they start whining.

8. Consult With a Veterinarian and Dog Trainer

If you are still having trouble getting your puppy to sleep through the night, it may be time to speak with your veterinarian. There may be an underlying medical reason why your puppy can’t sleep through the night such as a urinary tract infection. A certified dog trainer may also be able to give you additional training tips. Some dog trainers may recommend training collars to train dogs. I usually do not recommend using training collars for puppies under 6 months of age, and in general, positive reinforcement is more effective for training a puppy.²

How long does it take for a puppy to sleep through the night?

Most puppies will not be able to sleep for a full 8 hours at night without needing to go to the bathroom. Puppies that are under 4 to 6 months of age usually have to go to the bathroom every 3 to 4 hours, so you will probably need to let your puppy out once in the middle of the night. Once your puppy is around 6 months of age, they should be able to sleep through the night without having an accident.

What do I do if my puppy wakes up at night?

If your puppy wakes you up at night about 3 to 4 hours after you go to bed, this means that they probably need to go to the bathroom. If they are waking you up more than 1 to 2 times per night, then they are probably just bored or want attention. If they are whining even after you take them out to the bathroom, try to ignore the whining. Don’t scold your puppy for whining because usually, this will make it worse.

How do you get a puppy to stop whining at night?

Puppies that whine at night usually want one of two things—a bathroom break or attention. Your puppy will likely need to go to the bathroom once or twice in the middle of the night. I typically recommend ignoring the whining if you know that your puppy doesn’t need to go outside to the bathroom. Usually, if you ignore the whining and don’t scold them for whining, eventually they will stop whining.

This article will discuss the best way to crate train a puppy and the keys to crate training a puppy.

The Best Way To Crate Train a Puppy

Step 1: Crate Orientation

The first step in crate training a puppy is to let your puppy become acquainted with the crate. Put soft blankets within the crate to make it look inviting. Leave the crate open at all times and let your puppy explore the crate. Never try to force your puppy into the crate. You can try throwing some treats into the crate to see if your puppy will enter the crate. Once your puppy seems eager to go into the crate on their own, you can move to step 2.

Step 2: Crate Playtime

Try playing with your puppy in the crate.¹ Throw his favorite toy into the crate or play tug of war with him. You may even consider buying your puppy a few new toys to play with in their crate. At this point, you want your new uppy to think the crate is a fun place to be.

Step 3: Crate Mealtime

Next, begin to feed your puppy meals in the crate. In the beginning, do not close the door to the crate during mealtime. Keep the crate door open so your puppy can still come and go as they please. Once your puppy seems content with the crate, you can begin to close the crate door during mealtime and open up the crate just before your puppy is done eating.

Step 4: Crate Trial

Your puppy should now associate the crate with food, treats, playtime, and toys. If your puppy still seems to enjoy the crate, try a trial run. Get several of your puppy’s favorite treats or chew toys and place them in the crate. After your puppy enters the crate, close the crate door. Leave your puppy in the crate for 5 to 10 minutes then let them out. If they begin whining, try not to let them out until they stop whining. If they still seem content with the crate trial, begin to lengthen the period of time in the crate to 20 to 30 minutes. Slowly work your way up to 1 to 2 hours.

Step 5: Crate Time!

At this point, you have moved slowly with the crate training process, and your puppy should think that the crate is a safe and fun place to be. You can now try to leave your puppy in the crate for 3 to 4 hours while you are out of the house. Remember that puppies have small bladders so you shouldn’t leave them in the crate for any more than 3 to 4 hours at a time.

Keys To Crate Training a Puppy

Be Patient

Many pet owners ask me, “How long does it take to crate train a puppy?” When crate training a puppy, you must be patient. Crate training can take weeks to months and will not work if rushed. The training process should be done gradually because if you move too quickly through the steps, your puppy could become frustrated and start to associate the crate with a bad place. Remember to stay positive and be patient!

Do Not React To Whining

Should you ignore a puppy whining in a crate? Yes, if your puppy is whining, do not scold them or let them out of the crate. Any attention is good attention for a puppy, so by scolding them you are actually making the problem worse. Try to ignore the whining and only let them out of the crate when they have stayed quiet for 10 to 15 seconds.

Remove Any Collars or Harnesses

If you use a collar or a no slip harness for dogs and want to leave your puppy in a crate unattended, make sure you have removed their collar or harness. These things can get caught within the crate grating, and I have heard of cases where puppies have been strangled to death because their collar got caught in the crate.

Do Not Punish by Using the Crate

The Humane Society of the U.S. recommends never using crating as a punishment for your dog.² If your puppy associates the crate with a negative experience, they will not want to use the crate at all.

Choose the Right Crate

You may be wondering how to choose a crate for your puppy. You will want to find a sturdy crate that can not be chewed up by your puppy. I usually recommend a metal crate when crate training a puppy. You can also consider

You will want the crate to give your puppy a little wiggle room, so be sure the crate is large enough for them to easily move around and stretch. We have resources for determining how big a dog crate should be, like our dog crate size chart. 

Additionally, you can also consider using an indoor dog house or an outdoor dog kennel, depending on your pup’s needs.

Keep It Short

You may also be wondering how long you can leave an 8 week old puppy in a crate. Ideally, to avoid accidents, you should never leave your puppy in the crate for more than 4 hours at a time. Puppy bladders are extremely small, so it can be tough for them to go longer than 4 hours without going to the bathroom. As your puppy gets older, you can begin to leave them in the crate longer, but at less than 8 weeks of age, I usually recommend letting them out at least every 3 to 4 hours.

Consult with Your Veterinarian and Trainer

If you are struggling with crate training a puppy, remember to consult with your veterinarian and trainer. Other tips and techniques may be recommended for crate training your puppy. Some trainers may instruct you to use a training collar. Although in general, positive reinforcement is better for crate training a puppy than using a training collar because you will want to be sure your puppy associates the crate with positive experiences.³ In addition, I do not recommend training collars for puppies under 6 months of age.

Each of the products that we recommend here has been hand-selected by Dr. Melody Aitchison-Steed, one of our veterinary experts. Her top pick is the PoochPads Indoor Turf Dog Potty Plus. This dog litter box stands out from others because it features a reusable pad and can be interlocked with additional PoochPads Indoor Turf Dog Potty Plus to create a larger indoor bathroom space.

Our Vet’s Top Pick

Pooch Pads Indoor Turf Dog Potty Plus, for Dogs up to 20 lbs., 24″ L X 16″ W X 1″ H

While this was Dr. Aitchison-Steed’s top choice, she also offers a series of her top tips for what to look for in choosing the best dog litter boxes, a section on who should avoid purchasing them altogether, and she personally selected the best litter boxes for a variety of specific use cases.

The 5 Best Dog Litter Boxes

1. Best Overall – PoochPads Indoor Turf Dog Potty Plus
2. Best Budget – Petco Brand – So Phresh Dog Litter Box
3. Best for Large Dogs – MEEXPAWS Dog Grass Pee Pads for Dogs with Tray
4. Best for Small Dogs – PETMAKER Artificial Grass Puppy Pad Collection
5. Best with Grass – DoggieLawn Natural Grass Puppy Pee Pads

Dog Litter Boxes Compared

Here are the top picks from our veterinarian. Compare the ratings and features of different models.

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*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers

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Who Should Buy a Dog Litter Box

• Dog owners who live in high-rise apartments – If you live in an upper-floor apartment, taking your dog all the way downstairs and outside (then back up when they’re finished) can be a hassle. If your dog doesn’t give you a lot of notice that they have to go potty, they may not even make it all the way outside before going. A dog litter box gives them a quickly accessible spot where they can go to the bathroom indoors.
• Owners of dogs with urinary issues – Small dogs, older dogs, or dogs with kidney disease may all have a hard time holding their urine or only give short notice that they have to go.[efn_note]Jergler D. What you need to know about urinary incontinence in dogs. Veterinarypracticenews.com. Published June 9, 2016. Accessed January 3, 2022.[/efn_note]
• In these cases, an indoor dog litter box gives your dog an appropriate place to go if they can’t make it outside.
• Owners of dogs with mobility issues – Broken limbs, joint problems, and other health conditions can make the actual movement to get outside difficult. Vetericyn. How to Help Mobility in Senior Dogs. Vetericyn.com. Published January 7, 2020. Accessed January 3, 2022. Dog litter boxes shorten the distance dogs have to walk to go to the bathroom.
• Dog owners with mobility issues – Similarly, dog owners may have health issues or injuries that make moving difficult. Dogs’ needs don’t stop just because we have a harder time meeting them, so a dog litter box allows your dog to potty without you having to go through the pain or difficulty of taking them outside.
• Owners of puppies – Having a quick and easy-to-access spot to go potty indoors can help you teach your potty-training puppy where it is and isn’t appropriate to go to the bathroom.

Who Should Not Buy a Dog Litter Box

• Owners who can’t clean up after their dogs – A litter box is easier in some ways than taking your dog outside to go to the bathroom, but the litter box will still need regular cleaning. Owners need to be able to either clean the box themselves or arrange to have it cleaned by someone else.
• Owners who never want to take their dogs out again – A litter box shouldn’t be seen as a replacement for ever taking your dog outside to go to the bathroom. Rather, it’s a supplement for times when taking them out is difficult or impossible. You should still take your dog outside to go to the bathroom as much as possible.
• Owners of very large dogs – Obviously, the larger the dog, the larger the space they need to go to the bathroom. For large dogs, an appropriately sized litter box is very large and would be highly impractical in most homes. Unless you have a lot of extra space, a litter box likely won’t be a reasonable solution for a large dog.

Buying Guide: Research Tips From a Veterinarian

There are many reasons to consider a dog litter box. Perhaps you are training a new puppy or adult dog, you live in a condo or apartment, there is harsh winter weather, or maybe you have a senior dog that struggles to get outside. There are a few things to keep in mind when searching for the best dog litter box.

Once you have narrowed down your choices make sure to get tips from your veterinarian, family/friends, and whenever you are looking at products online double-check the reviews. I also love to look at reviews with photos or videos. Finally, when researching a product make sure you are on a trusted website where the reviews are trustworthy. Once I find litter boxes that meet my criteria I would choose the one that I like the look of.

1. Make sure it’s safe – As with anything you get for your pup, avoid a setup that has easily removable parts that a dog may be able to easily chew or swallow. This is especially important for puppies, as smaller objects can be a choking hazard.[efn_note]Animal Friends. 5 dog choking hazards. Animalfriends.co.uk. Accessed January 3, 2022.[/efn_note]
2. Choose a setup that’s easy to clean – Avoid a litter box that was too difficult for an individual to easily clean. Absorbent pads make it easy to clean out a box, then a plastic case is easy to wipe down. Other setups can just be completely thrown out and replaced thanks to real grass and cardboard. Mobility issues may put special restrictions on your ability to clean, so keep that in mind when choosing a dog litter box.
3. Think about the conditions in your home – Think about how much room you have for a litter box and where you’d like it to be placed. If you have children or other pets in the home, consider if you need to make sure that the litter box isn’t accessible to them.
4. Consider your budget – Remember not just the initial cost for the litterbox setup, but also replacement costs for puppy pads, cat litter, or grass (not to mention everything else you need for a new puppy). It may be worth it to spend a bit more upfront for long-term savings on litter.
5. Litter box size and shape – The litter box needs to work in your home and for your dog. Consider how much space you have for your litter box and how much space your dog needs to do their business. Then choose a litter box that’s the right size and shape to fit both of those needs.
6. Substrate and surface – Most dogs prefer to go on real grass, so it’s great for pickier dogs. However, it needs to be replaced more frequently. This can be pricey and create a lot of waste. Artificial turf is a good alternative that also has the benefit of easy cleaning. You can also use a newspaper, which is a money-saving option if you get a newspaper delivered anyway. Alternatively, various cat litters (such as dust-free cat litter) are also options.
7. Appearance – A dog litter box isn’t the most glamorous of home accessories, but it’s still nice to feel okay about the way it looks in your home. Ideally, you can find a dog litter box with an appearance you like or at least one that can be styled or hidden in a way that minimizes how much it takes away from your decor.

How Much Do They Cost?

[pricetag]$25-$50[/pricetag]

In general, you can expect to pay $25-$50 for your initial litter box. That includes both the box itself and whatever absorbent material or substrate you need to go with it. However, for most litter boxes, you should also consider the cost of replacing that absorbent material or substrate regularly. How frequently you need to do that depends on the size of your litter box, how frequently your dog uses it, the type of material, and more. You can save money by choosing a litter box that comes with a reusable pad. These pads can be washed so you don’t need a new one every time you clean the box.

Aside from that, the largest factor for cost is size. The largest dog litter boxes can cost around $120.

Our Methodology: Why Trust Pet News Daily

As a veterinarian, I see dogs that need an indoor space to eliminate waste quite often. I’ve talked with a wide variety of dog owners about the dog litter boxes that their dogs prefer, and about the owners’ experiences with dog litter boxes. Based on those conversations, as well as my own knowledge of dog behavior and instinct, I’ve chosen these five dog litter boxes as my top recommendations. I selected each one with important features like safety, appeal to dogs, ease of cleaning, and odor control in mind. I’m confident that each recommendation I’ve provided is a high-quality product that you and your dog are sure to appreciate. – Dr. Melody Aitchison-Steed, DVM

The Best Dog Litter Box Reviews

1. Best Overall – PoochPads Indoor Turf Dog Potty Plus

[amazon-box banner=”Our Vet’s Top Pick” asin=”B00N3XG0I2″ title=”For the best dog litter box, you’ve got to go with the PoochPads Indoor Turf Dog Potty Plus.

$49.99

Buy on Amazon

The PoochPads Indoor Turf Dog Potty Plus is a great all-around option for a dog litter box. It features artificial turf over a reusable absorbent pad to soak up liquid messes. The pad has built-in odor control so you don’t have to worry about harsh odors. It’s also washer safe and is guaranteed for 300 or more washes. You may want to get a second pad so that you can have one in the box and one in the wash at the same time.

This is a small litter box, measuring 24″ x 16″. PoochPads recommends it for dogs up to 20 pounds. However, it can be interlocked with other trays for larger dogs. Combine two trays for 21-30 pound dogs, three trays for 31-45 pound dogs, or four trays for dogs 45 pounds and larger. For multiple dog homes, combine the weight of all dogs present and use the total number to determine how many trays are needed.

2. Best Budget – Petco Brand – So Phresh Dog Litter Box

Best Budget Buy

Petco Brand – So Phresh Dog Litter Box

The Petco Brand – So Phresh Dog Litter Box is a great, affordable option for a dog litter box.

$31.89

Buy on Amazon

If you’re a budget-conscious shopper, the Petco Brand – So Phresh Dog Litter Box is the way to go.

It’s similar to a cat litter box and works just the same way. Simply fill it with your litter of choice, then scoop and replace the litter as appropriate. When you replace the litter, wipe down the plastic box or wash it with soap and water. You can even use a litter box liner to help make cleaning even easier.

The downside is the size. Even the Large size measures 19.5 x 23.5 inches, though, so it’s on the smaller side. It’s best for small dogs who don’t need a lot of space around them to go. The Small size is 19.5 x 14.5 inches. Each size has five-inch tall walls to help keep the litter inside the box and a 3 1/8 height opening to help even short-legged dogs enter the box.

3. Best for Large Dogs – MEEXPAWS Dog Grass Pee Pads for Dogs with Tray

Best for Large Dogs

MEEXPAWS Dog Grass Pee Pads for Dogs with Tray

If you’re looking for a litter box for a large dog, you can’t beat the MEEXPAWS Dog Grass Pee Pads for Dogs with Tray.

$129.99

Buy on Amazon

The MEEXPAWS Dog Grass Pee Pads for Dogs with Tray comes in three sizes, but the X-Large size is ideal for large dogs, measuring 45 x 35 inches.

This dog litter box uses a multi-layer system: it has an artificial turf pad on top, then a grid, then absorbent pads, and then the bottom tray. The grid between the turf and the pads lifts up the turf so it’s not resting on a damp pad. The turf pads have a durable rubber backing to stand up to scratching and wear. The rubber backing also has holes to allow liquid waste to quickly and easily drain down and be absorbed by the pee pads.

The litter box comes with two turf pads so that you can have one on the litter box and one being cleaned at the same time. The turf can be rinsed in a shower or with a hose then hung or set out in the sun to dry. You may need to deep clean the grass with vinegar or an odor eliminator every month or so to get rid of lingering smells. It also comes with two peed pads, but they aren’t reusable, so you’ll need to buy additional pads separately. MEEXPAWS makes their own pads, but you could also use similarly sized pads from another company. Note that the X-Large box uses two large-sized pads (35.4 x 23.6).

4. Best for Small Dogs – PETMAKER Artificial Grass Puppy Pad Collection

Best for Small Dogs

PETMAKER Artificial Grass Puppy Pad Collection

If you have a puppy or small breed dog, the PETMAKER Artificial Grass Puppy Pad Collection is a great option.

$31.94

Buy on Amazon

On the other end of the spectrum is the PETMAKER Artificial Grass Puppy Pad Collection. This dog litter box comes in two sizes: the medium measures 20 x 25 while the small is 16 x 20. This makes it great for small to medium-sized dogs, but not big enough for large dogs.

This dog litter box uses a three-layer system. The top layer is an artificial turf pad, which is followed by a drainage insert, then finally a collection tray. To clean the box, empty the collection tray into the toilet, then clean all parts with soap and water. For even easier clean-up, you can add a pee pad to the collection tray to absorb urine. Reviewers note that you may need to do a deeper cleaning of the turf every few weeks with vinegar, bleach, or an odor eliminator for odor prevention.

5. Best with Grass – DoggieLawn Natural Grass Puppy Pee Pads

Best Dog Litter Box with Grass

DoggieLawn Natural Grass Puppy Pee Pads

When it comes to a dog litter box with real grass, you can’t go wrong with DoggieLawn Natural Grass Puppy Pee Pads.

$36.95

Buy on Amazon

Our last recommendation, DoggieLawn Natural Grass Puppy Pee Pads, stands out from the rest in that it uses real grass. This makes it more instinctive for your dog to use it and manages odors better than artificial turf. It also makes this litter box very easy to set up: just take the lid off, put the potty where you want it, and you’re ready to go. Once the grass has died or the box stops effectively managing odors, you can just throw the whole assembly away, skipping any need for a laborious cleaning process. Since it’s totally natural, there are no plastics that require manufacturing or clog up landfills after disposal. You can even compost DoggieLawn Natural Grass Puppy Pee Pads at home or in most public composting facilities.

A single DoggieLawn Natural Grass Puppy Pee Pad can last anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks depending on the size of your dog and how much they use the litter box. Spraying the grass with water daily can help extend its life of the grass. It comes in Medium (20″ x 24″) and Standard (16″ x 24″) sizes, which are both too small for large dogs. However, you can put a couple of trays side by side for larger dogs, but probably want to put a puppy pad or towel underneath in case your dog urinates through the gap.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our vet advisor, Dr. Jamie Whittenburg, looked at all types of dog playpens to determine which is the best option for your pup, looking at factors like durability, portability, and escapability. She chose the BestPet Extra Large Indoor Outdoor Dog Fence Playpen for its durability and versatility. This playpen is a universal choice whether you’re using it inside or out and no matter what breed.

Best Overall

BestPet Extra Large Indoor Outdoor Dog Fence Playpen

If you want the best of the best dog playpens, look no further than the BestPet Extra Large Indoor Outdoor Dog Fence Playpen.

$149.98

Buy on Amazon

While this was Dr. Whittenburg’s top choice, she also offers a series of her top tips for what to look for in choosing the best dog playpen, a section on who should avoid purchasing them altogether, and she personally selected the best playpen for a variety of specific use cases.

The 5 Best Dog Playpens

1. Best Overall – BestPet Extra Large Indoor Outdoor Dog Fence Playpen
2. Best Budget – Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Pet Dog Exercise Fence Pen
3. Best Outdoor – Chicken Coop Outlet
4. Best Portable – Ruff ‘n Ruffus Portable Foldable Pet Playpen
5. Best for Exercise – FXW Dog Fence Outdoor Pen

Dog Playpens Compared

Here are our top picks. Compare the ratings and features of different models to find the right one for you.

*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers

Who Should Buy Dog Playpens

• Escape artist parents. When your dog can get out of every confinement you create, the time may be to find a playpen especially designed for him. Even if you have a room that your dog is safe in, putting a playpen around the majority of the room may keep him from scratching up, chewing, or otherwise destroying your door.
• Working families. If you have long chunks of time away from your dog, then you want to make those times as stress-free as you can for your dog. Not only will a stressed dog act out, but you don’t want your fur baby more anxious than he needs to be – especially when a new puppy is transitioning to longer times away from you. A playpen will prevent your dog from endless amounts of trouble.
• Isolationists. If you have multiple dogs, there are plenty of ways that can go wrong. From fights to mating to just about everything in between – separating two dogs in one household is tricky but sometimes necessary. A playpen can help you keep your dog in heat away from accidental impregnation and, should a dog get sick, you can isolate the sickness to prevent others from catching anything communicable.

Who Should Not Buy Dog Playpens

• Old dogs, new tricks. When you have an older dog, no longer prone to puppy-ways, you may not need a playpen. If he can have free reign of the house and it’s a non-issue, then why bother confining him? There’s not a lot to gain by restricting a dog’s movement when the movement isn’t a concern to you.
• Safe spaces. When your home – or a segregated area of your home – is dog-proof, then you don’t need to confine him to a playpen. If your dog has a room that he can be shut into that gives him all he needs and causes no potential risk, then the worry for when you’re away isn’t as significant and the playpen is less of an urgent purchase. Just remember that you’ll likely still have travel and exceptions when a playpen can still be of use.

Buying Guide: Research Tips From a Veterinarian

Because purchasing an air purifier can be a moderate investment financially, you will want to do some research and find a unit that will fit your needs. Here’s what to consider when picking an air purifier for eliminating pet odors: 

1. In or out? It is important to first decide what you will be using the playpen for, whether it will be used outdoors or inside, and how large it needs to be to comfortably accommodate your pets.
2. Portability. Another feature to consider is the ease of setup and transport if you need to move the playpen often. Whether you plan to take it when you travel or just move from one room to another, it’s worth looking for portable options.
3. Durable materials. Also, it is essential to consider the material that the pen is made from. Heavy-duty metal (steel) kennels will last longer. You may prefer the models that are coated for protection from rust. If you have a strong dog or an escape artist, it is essential to consider the strength of the bars. Flimsy or small gauge wire playpens can be easily escaped by some dogs. Inspect the panels to make sure there are no sharp points or edges.
4. Your dog as an individual. Your needs may vary based on the intended use and the size and personality of your dog.  Locking mechanisms on the doors are a good idea to prevent escape, so I suggest avoiding doors without them.
5. Don’t be afraid to ask around. It is also a good idea to ask friends, neighbors, and your veterinarian for recommendations. When you have discussions with someone you know about a purchase you can ask the questions you really want to know; like “Can it fit through my kitchen door?”
6. See it in action, if you can. If possible, it is best actually to see the playpen prior to your purchase. This will enable you to inspect the construction and ensure the pen is suitable for your needs.

If you’re looking for a more compact, temporary option, then don’t forget about crates – just make sure they’re the right size for your dog. And if you have a specific dog breed that you’ll want to predict their adult size, make sure you’re checking before you adopt. If you have a small apartment, a Great Dane may not be the best breed choice for you. If you plan on keeping a puppy in a dog playpen for extended periods of time, you may even want to consider litter training them.

How Much Do They Cost?

Between $50-200

Most of the cost differential between playpens is down to size and durability. If you’re getting the escape-proof playpen that a large dog can’t chew through or jump over, you’ll be spending far more than if you want a portable playpen for your toy breed. You’ll spend even more if you want it to be a permanent fixture in your yard – those types can run you over $500, while the bulk of others will be between $50 and $200.

Our Methodology: Why Trust Pet News Daily

As a veterinarian, I’ve seen a lot of problems with dogs getting into trouble and can testify that a good playpen will help with several of those troublemaker problems. After treating injuries that occur when a dog is trying to escape, or when they’ve gotten into something they shouldn’t have when the owner was away, I’m confident saying the right playpen can even keep your pet safe. – Not to mention it can keep your belongings safe, as well. – Dr. Jamie Whittenburg

The Best Dog Playpen Reviews

1. Best Overall – BestPet Extra Large Indoor Outdoor Dog Fence Playpen

Best Overall

BestPet Extra Large Indoor Outdoor Dog Fence Playpen

If you want the best of the best dog playpens, look no further than the BestPet Extra Large Indoor Outdoor Dog Fence Playpen.

$149.98

Buy on Amazon

The BestPet Extra Large Indoor Outdoor Dog Fence Playpen is well-built and spacious enough to allow dogs to play safely while still being contained. Dogs who jump are not good candidates for this type of structure as they may easily escape. It’s a great choice because it can be configured in different shapes, comes in various sizes, and can be connected to another playpen to increase the space.

Assembly is simple, and the playpen comes with assembly instructions that will enable you to construct the structure in a matter of minutes. This playpen is well-built and sturdy. The coating should guard against rust and it is portable for the needs of campers or travelers.

2. Best Budget – Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Pet Dog Exercise Fence Pen

Best Budget

Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Pet Dog Exercise Fence Pen

If your dog needs a safe area and you don’t want to pay through the nose, try the Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Pet Dog Exercise Fence Pen.

$38.24

Buy on Amazon

The Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Pet Dog Exercise Fence Pen is versatile and can be used indoors or outside. Lightweight and easily moved, this playpen is most appropriate for small dogs. There are no tools required for set-up and the panels fold down flat for easy storage between uses.

The pen is made of durable iron metal with a rust-proof black finish which will enable its use for years to come. The playpen has a step-through door that is equipped with two secure-locking slide-bolt latches. There are also eight ground anchors included for outdoor use.

3. Best Outdoor – Chicken Coop Outlet

Best Outdoor

ChickenCoop Outlet Dog Kennel

ChickenCoop Outlet Dog Kennel playpen Dog Kennel is perfect for dogs who love the outdoor life.

$633.46

Buy on Amazon

You’ll like the Chicken Coop Outlet Backyard Dog Kennel for outdoor use because it allows dogs room to play but also an area that is covered to give dogs shade and protection from the weather. This enclosure is large, measuring 16 Panels W26″X H32″, and is only suited for outdoor use.  This enclosure is big enough for multiple dogs; however, it may not be ideal for very strong dogs or escape artists as the chain link is not heavy-duty.

No tools are required for assembly. Rod-connected design, connecting each panel through dome rods, easy to assemble and disassemble.

4. Best Portable – Ruff ‘n Ruffus Portable Foldable Pet Playpen

Best Portable

Ruff ‘n Ruffus Portable Foldable Pet Playpen + Free Carrying Case + Free Travel Bowl | Available in 3 Sizes Indoor/Outdoor Water-Resistant Removable Shade Cover

If you’re a fan of taking your pup with you everywhere you go, then you may want to check out the Ruff ‘n Ruffus Portable Foldable Pet Playpen.

$38.97

Buy on Amazon

There is no assembly required for the easily portable playpen, Ruff ‘n Ruffus Portable Foldable Pet Playpen. It also comes with a carry case which increases the ease of transporting it. The playpen is available in three sizes – Medium (29x29x17 inches), Large (36x36x23 inches), and Extra Large (48x48x23.5 inches).

This playpen is a nice way to give your dog more room than a crate but is not ideal for vigorous exercise. It can easily be used for traveling and camping. The playpen is made from durable water-resistant materials and comes with a removable zippered top that can be used to provide shade.

5. Best for Exercise – FXW Dog Fence Outdoor Pen

Best for Exercise

FXW Dog Fence Outdoor Pen

If you’re interested in giving your dog his exercise free of the worry of running off, then you won’t want to miss the FXW Dog Fence Outdoor Pen.

$499.99

Buy on Amazon

With the FXW Dog Fence Outdoor Pen, you’ll get 48 panels that provide 729 square feet of exercise space, making it a great choice for enclosing large areas and allowing dogs to exercise vigorously. This outside dog enclosure features a powder coating that will help protect against rust and extend its life. The steel wire of this dog fence is smooth and solid, so no need to worry that your dog will be able to chew the panels and escape.

The dog fence’s panels can be put together in just a few minutes using the supplied poles, in multiple combinations, shapes, and configurations. The fence folds flat for easy storage and transportation, which makes this an ideal choice for a large exercise pen.

Consider why you want a dog harness with a backpack and understand how it works to help minimize any harm to your dog. We consulted with our veterinarian advisor, Dr. Diana Hasler, to find us the best dog backpack harnesses that are available. We then broke down the categories to cover small dogs, active dogs, and just-in-case scenarios.

Dr. Hasler chose the OneTigris Dog Backpack as the top pick for dog backpack harnesses. Featuring durable 1000D nylon material, this backpack dog harness is breathable and made for inclement weather.

Our Vet’s Top Pick

OneTigris Dog Backpack

The OneTigris dog backpack harness is designed with tough material and offers a large amount of storage space.

$39.98

Buy on Amazon

While this was Dr. Hasler’s top choice, she also offers a series of her top tips for what to look for in choosing the best harness backpack, a section on who should avoid purchasing them altogether, and she personally selected the best dog backpack harness for a variety of specific use cases.

The 5 Best Dog Backpack Harnesses

• Best Overall – OneTigris Dog Backpack
• Best Budget – IDOMIK Dog Backpack No-Pull Pet Harness Vest with Saddle Bag
• Best for Small Dogs – OneTigris EUREKA K9 Backpack with Litter Bag
• Best for Hiking – Kurgo Dog Saddlebag Backpack
• Best Emergency – K9 Sport Sack Walk-On Dog Carrier Dog Backpack

Dog Backpack Harnesses Compared

Below are the top picks from Dr. Hasler. Compare the ratings and key features of the five top dog backpack harnesses to find the one that’s best for your dog.

*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers

Who Should Buy a Dog Backpack Harness

• Hikers and walking enthusiasts. A dog harness with backpack is often a good idea for those who walk or hike with their dogs regularly. If your dog is in good shape and already used to the exercise, a backpack harness for your dog is a convenient way to carry quickly accessible small items. Whether or not you pack your own backpack for the hike or walk, a backpack harness for your dog allows you to access essential items faster.
• Anyone who is unable to carry small items. If, for whatever reason, you’re unable to carry small items while walking, a harness backpack for your dog lets you have a more enjoyable walking experience knowing your needed items are close by.
• Those who want to have emergency items on hand. A dog harness with backpack is a great way to carry around important or emergency items – for whatever type of emergency you think you might encounter. From bandages to medicine to food to bug spray, most dog harness backpacks are equipped to hold these items.
• Your dog needs extra exercise. Consult with your veterinarian before deciding to outfit your dog with a weighted backpack harness. Some dogs, typically working or sporting breeds, require intense daily exercise. A dog backpack harness with additional weight may be a good choice for your active dog’s regular exercise routine.

Who Should Not Buy a Dog Backpack Harness

• Your dog has mobility issues. Do not use a dog harness with backpack if your dog is injured, weak, or otherwise physically unable to carry extra weight. Don’t use if the backpack hinders your dog’s movements in any way.
• Your dog needs a different style of harness. While a backpack harness is not suitable for all dogs, some dogs may do well with other types of harnesses, such as lift harnesses, no-pull harnesses, and custom-fit harnesses. Be sure to choose the correct dog harness for your dog’s particular needs.

Buying Guide: Research Tips From a Veterinarian

It’s important a harness fits well and is comfortable for your dog before using it for extended periods of time. Ill-fitting harnesses increase the chance of your dog escaping, which can have terrible consequences in dogs with inadequate recall. There are several beneficial features that should also be considered when choosing a backpack harness for your dog, so be sure to do adequate research and don’t be afraid to ask friends, family, or your veterinarian for recommendations. Here are some more tips and best practices to consider when selecting a dog backpack harness.

1. Choose a dog backpack harness with durable materials – Select a backpack harness for your dog that’s made with strong materials and that won’t fall apart when you’re out for a walk or hike. Also look for water-resistant materials in case of rain.
2. Safety comes first – A dog harness backpack has to be safe and secure on your dog. For starters, the straps should be secure and distributed in a way that prevents your dog from slipping out of the harness. Straps that are too thin may dig into your dog’s skin and cause skin irritation, especially in pups who pull on the leash. Additionally, dog backpack harnesses with little reinforcement in the straps – such as straps with Velcro instead of buckles, may also increase the risk of escape.
3. Select a dog harness with backpack that’s comfortable – Choose a backpack harness with a soft, mesh lining to keep your dog comfortable. If a harness has limited air flow, it may retain moisture and rub against your dog’s skin, causing irritation and, in some cases, even infection. Pay attention to where the leash clips are located, as some dogs may behave better when their leash is clipped at the front (the key feature to no-pull harnesses.)
4. Consider the style and color – A dog harness backpack comes in a variety of styles and colors. If you will be hiking with your dog, especially if you let them off the lead, choose a harness that is bright, with reflective trim for better visibility. Consider how much storage area you need – and how much your dog can reasonably carry – before selecting a dog backpack harness.

Worried about your dog getting out of his harness? Consider our choices for escape-proof dog harnesses (read our review of escape-proof dog harness)to see if those fit your scenario better. Don’t forget to check the life of your current leash and collar to ensure the safety of your dog on walks and hikes. What good is the harness if the leash breaks?

How Much Do They Cost?

Around $35

Dog backpack harnesses cost roughly $35, on average. However, the price ranges from $25 up to $200 depending on the design details of the particular dog harness backpack you’re looking for. From simple and aesthetically pleasing to functional and bulky, dog backpack harnesses all have one thing in common – the main pocket or pouch to stash your items. Beyond that, they vary in style, color, and what they have to offer, which is reflected in the price. Cheaper backpack harnesses have one pocket, neck and chest straps, and leash attachment. Dog harness backpacks on the higher price end often have more than one pocket or pouch, are constructed from stronger material, offer multiple leash attachments, and are outfitted with double-securing straps.

Our Methodology: Why Trust Pet News Daily

When choosing the best dog backpack harnesses, I drew from my own experience as a veterinarian. I have seen numerous dogs with ill-fitting harnesses escape in and out of the clinic, so one of my main criteria was to select harnesses that will fit well to minimize risk of accidents. I also prioritized comfort in terms of the harness’ construction and breathability to prevent skin irritation and uneven pressure on the joints. – Dr. Diana Hasler

The Best Dog Backpack Harness Reviews

1. Best Overall – OneTigris Dog Backpack

Our Vet’s Top Pick

OneTigris Dog Backpack

The OneTigris dog backpack harness is designed with tough material and offers a large amount of storage space.

$39.98

Buy on Amazon

Our vet advisor chose the OneTigris Dog Backpack as the best dog backpack harness due to its sturdy construction, breathability, and storage capacity. Made from strong 1000D nylon, the OneTigris backpack harness features two large pouches with outside pockets – one on each side of the harness, and cross-bungee cords to secure additional items to the outside of the pack. Each pouch is zippered, but the zippers are hidden beneath the harness material, so your dog isn’t accidentally harmed by them.

The OneTigris dog backpack harness wraps around the neck and chest with wide buckle straps that are adjustable to ensure a snug, but not-too-tight fit. The harness straps are outfitted with both Velcro and buckles for additional safety, while the top of the harness features a large grab handle for those times you just need to hold your dog close. Fasten your dog’s leash securely to the UTX-Duraflex D-ring on the back of the grab handle.

2. Best Budget – IDOMIK Dog Backpack No-Pull Pet Harness Vest with Saddle Bag

Best Budget

IDOMIK Dog Backpack No-Pull Pet Harness Vest with Saddle Bag

Easy on the eyes and gentle on the pocket, the IDOMIK backpack for dogs comes as either a frog or pig outfitted with a small, zippered pouch.

$24.97

Buy on Amazon

IDOMIK Dog Backpack No-Pull Pet Harness Vest with Saddle Bag is not just good for the budget, it’s also a cute dog backpack harness. Featuring either a wide-eyed, bright green frog or a pretty pink pig, this doggy backpack is made from durable 900D nylon and padded mesh for your dog’s comfort. Available in three sizes, though mostly meant for small to medium size dogs, this dog backpack harness straps on in the front of the chest and under the belly.

The IDOMIK frog backpack for dogs provides a zippered pouch on the top, in the shape of a frog or pig. Metal D rings are situated both on the back and in the front, making the backpack harness versatile for regular walking or no-pull walking. Customize the harness to better fit your dog with the adjustable and easy-to-use buckles and straps.

3. Best for Small Dogs – OneTigris EUREKA K9 Backpack with Litter Bag

Best Small Dog Backpack Harness

OneTigris EUREKA K9 Backpack with Litter Bag

Featuring a breathable mesh, the OneTigris backpack is designed with an X-shaped chest piece.

Buy on Amazon

According to our vet, the best small dog backpack harness is the OneTigris EUREKA K9 Backpack with Litter Bag. Designed specifically for smaller dogs, available in XXS, XS, and S, this backpack harness can fit most dogs as small as those with an 8-inch neck girth and a 12-inch chest girth. Made from 1000D nylon and featuring a breathable, padded mesh underside, the OneTigris backpack for dogs has one main compartment with an internal mesh pocket.

The OneTigris small dog backpack harness features a pouch capacity from 0.8L to 2.1L. The main pack is strapped to your dog with an X-shaped chest piece for a snugger fit. Use the buckles to adjust the size to your dog. Attach your dog’s leash to the stainless-steel D-ring located on the front of the harness for no-pull walking.

4. Best for Hiking – Kurgo Dog Saddlebag Backpack

Best Dog Backpack Harness for Hiking

Kurgo Dog Saddlebag Backpack

The Kurgo dog backpack features large side pouches for storing items like collapsible bowls, treats, water, and first-aid kit.

$47.45

Buy on Amazon

Per Dr. Hasler, the best dog backpack harness for hiking is the Kurgo Dog Saddlebag Backpack. Available in bright colors with reflective trim, this dog harness backpack keeps your dog visible while hiking. The Kurgo dog backpack features pouches on either side of the harness for holding multiple items, with zippered outside pockets. The back of the harness features a large grab handle for helping your dog.

The Kurgo dog backpack harness for hiking is outfitted with neck and chest straps with adjustable buckles. This dog backpack harness is suitable only for larger dogs but has eight points of adjustment for a better fit. The small front chest piece is a breathable mesh that features the front leash attachment, which doubles as a can opener.

5. Best Emergency – K9 Sport Sack Walk-On Dog Carrier Dog Backpack

Best Emergency Dog Carrying Harness Backpack

K9 Sport Sack Walk-On Dog Carrier Dog Backpack

A 2-in-1 backpack, the K9 Sport Sack features a small pack for your pooch and large carry bag for you.

$139.95

Buy on Amazon

The best emergency dog carrying harness backpack is the K9 Sport Sack Walk-On Dog Carrier Dog Backpack due to its versatility in carrying options. Made for both you and your dog, this double backpack harness features a backpack for your dog and one for you. Your dog’s backpack attaches to the back of your backpack for when your pooch isn’t wearing it. And if your dog needs to stop walking, your pack allows you to carry your dog on your back.

The dog backpack harness features a main pouch for storage, which is situated on the back. The chest and neck straps are a wide, padded mesh for comfort and are adjustable for sizing the harness to your dog. There are three D-ring connection points for multiple leash attachment options. The back of the pack gives you the option to decorate your pack with custom patches via Velcro.

Your dog carrier backpack features a dog collar enclosure, angled cinched straps, and leg openings to keep your dog safe while in use. The pack also has wide, padded shoulders straps, as well as a sternum strap, to help support your back while carrying your dog. The sides of the dog carrier are mesh for air flow and venting.

Cat backpacks (aka “cat backpack carriers” or “cat carriers”) provide a safe, convenient way for your favorite feline to hit the trails, or beach, or take a trip to the vet.

That said not every cat likes being picked up, let alone put into a backpack or carrier, and the wrong carrier for the wrong cat can lead to a number of issues including:

• The wrong type of cat backpack materials (hard vs. soft) can make some cats physically uncomfortable.
• A cat backpack with or without a “window” may make your cat more or less stressed (depending on the cat).
• For some cats and in some situations (like extended trips or time away from home), a cat backpack may not be the right tool at all.

To help you make sense of all of this, we asked our vet advisor, Dr. Jamie Whittenburg, to review a variety of cat backpacks to recommend the best options for different types of cats, and also to give advice about how to think about cat backpacks in general.

Dr. Jamie Whittenburg DVM chose the PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack as the top cat backpack for its spacious interior, padding, and extra storage that makes traveling with your cat fun and simple.  It also got the top spot for the quality of the materials and construction.

Our Vet’s Top Pick

PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack

This backpack provides ample space and padding for riders, with quality construction and comfortable padding for the wearer.

$39.99

Buy on Amazon

While this was Dr. Whittenburg’s top choice, she also provided some things to look for to make sure you get the right carrier for your cat, a breakdown of what types of cats may not be suited for a cat backpack, and also selected the top cat backpacks for a number of specific use cases as well.

The Best Cat Backpacks

1. Best Overall – PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier
2. Best Budget – CHIJIRE Pet Carrier Backpack
3. Best Bubble – Halinfer Expandable Cat Backpack’s
4. Best for Travel – LOLLIMEW Pet Rolling Carrier
5. Best Expandable – Pecute Pet Carrier Backpack

Cat Backpacks Compared

Here are the top picks from our veterinarian. Compare the ratings and features of different models.

*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers

Who Should Buy a Cat Backpack or Cat Carrier

• Outdoor adventurers – Hiking, the beach, or the park are all places your cat might like to go, but sometimes you don’t know until you take him. A cat backpack carrier lets your cat go where you go, making you an unstoppable outdoor duo.
• Frequent travelers – If you jet to distance locations on the regular, a cat backpack makes sure your cat can go too. It’s easier to travel with a cat if you’ve got a safe way to carry and secure him no matter the mode of transportation.
• Owners of an ill cat – Cat backpacks can be easier to carry than cat carriers. Your cat may feel more secure, and you can stash a few necessities in the storage pockets.
• Trendy cat lovers – Cat carriers are on-trend. You can tote your cat to the local cafe to keep yourself at the front of fashion.

Who Should Not Buy a Cat Backpack

• Owners of an uncooperative cat – Cats are known for their independence. If your cat is more aloof than by your side, a cat backpack might not work. Cats have a way of making their opinions known. A few well-placed scratches and bites could make a cat backpack impossible.
• Owners of larger than average cats – Most cat backpacks are big enough for a 10- to 12-pound cat. If your cat is pushing 20 pounds or more, a backpack might not work.
• Owners of cats with serious health issues – If your cat is older and/or has some serious physical issues, consult with your veterinarian before loading them into any cat backpack.

Buying Guide: Research Tips From a Veterinarian

As a veterinarian, I often get asked about the best pet products, including cat backpacks and carriers. Here are a few tips to consider before making a purchase. Always read reviews on cat backpacks, if available. This will give you real feedback from other pet owners who have used the product. Don’t hesitate to ask friends, neighbors, and your veterinarian for recommendations too.

1. Sturdy construction – The backpack needs to withstand tooth and nail/claw. Sturdy seams, padded linings, and reinforced zippers will keep your cat safe and secure.
2. Ease of carrying – A backpack with additional chest and hip straps will be easier to carry by taking some of the weight off your shoulders.
3. Cleaning ease – Chances are your cat may relieve himself in the backpack at some point. If the cat soils the backpack, a removable bottom cushion is easier to clean. Also, look for a waterproof outer material and water-resistant interior lining.
4. Ventilation – Cats can overheat without plenty of ventilation—the more mesh and ventilation holes, the better.¹
5. Cushioning – A soft interior will be more comfortable for your cat and will help to make his travels more enjoyable.
6. Safety – Cats can be sneaky and are also adept at using their paws to open things. If you worry that your cat might try to unzip the backpack, make sure to look for a model with lock-type zippers and a built-in leash. Watch out for backpacks with flimsy bottoms or sides that may collapse under your cat’s weight. 
7. Size – Larger cats will require more room and a sturdier bottom for the backpack to ensure their comfort.

How Much Do They Cost?

Between $25 and $65

The majority of cat backpacks fall between $25 and $65. A very basic cat backpack carrier may have mostly mesh sides with solid bottom and shoulder straps. It may lack storage pockets and only have one or two entry points. As the price goes up, the backpacks have more padding and added storage. At the top of the price range are travel and expandable backpacks with flaps that extend the space or wheels for multiple carrying options.

Our Methodology: Why Trust Pet News Daily

I have spoken with many cat owners and see many cats as part of my practice. These cat backpacks were chosen based on my understanding of cats as a veterinarian, combined with the features I believe will keep cats safe, secure, and happy. I considered quality, space, padding, and safety among the features that led to the top picks for cat carriers.  – Dr. Jamie Whittenburg

The Best Cat Backpack Reviews

1. Best Overall – PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier

Our Vet’s Top Pick

PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack

This backpack provides ample space and padding for riders, with quality construction and comfortable padding for the wearer.

$39.99

Buy on Amazon

The PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier offers a generous interior room, which is my favorite feature. In order for a cat to enjoy their travel time, they need a spacious area inside their carrier so they don’t feel cramped.² The PetAmi includes a comfy sherpa-lined bed, giving your cat a soft place to relax while on the move. It also has excellent ventilation, which is important as cats can quickly overheat without adequate airflow.

Cats are escape artists, so the PetAmi’s safety strap, buckle, and zipper lock further keep your cat secure. Padded shoulder straps, chest straps, and hip straps make it comfortable for the wearer too. Finally, it includes storage pockets for treats or a collapsible water dish and comes in twelve colors. The only real con to this backpack is that the zipper can be stiff over the corners.

2. Best Budget – CHIJIRE Pet Carrier Backpack

Best Budget Buy

CHIJIRE Pet Carrier Backpack

A cozy interior, four-sided ventilation, and excellent safety features let your cat travel in safety while you stay in budget.

Buy on Amazon

The CHIJIRE Pet Carrier Backpack is my favorite cat backpack for the budget shopper. It’s large enough for small to medium-sized cats and will work for most pet owners, even though it’s not the most spacious model. The CHIJIRE is also a great option for those with limited storage space because it folds down flat.

There’s adequate ventilation, with mesh panels on four sides. Two locking zippers and a built-in retractable safety hook prevent cats from escaping. The CHIJIRE is padded with shock-absorbing mesh sponge to give your cat a smoother ride. Side pockets provide storage for small items such as a water bottle, keys, or cat treats. And not to forget comfort, the bottom of the backpack is lined with a soft pad that’s removable and washable.

3. Best Bubble – Halinfer Expandable Cat Backpack

Best Bubble Cat Backpack

Halinfer Expandable Cat Backpack

The Halinfer’s polarized plastic offers sun protection, while the design gives him room to move and relax.

$37.99

Buy on Amazon

The Halinfer Expandable Cat Backpack’s expansion is my favorite feature. The extra space lets your cat roam when it’s not being carried. This model is also durable but only weighs three pounds.

Cats get a great view through a transparent plastic panel with this model. However, that plastic is polarized, protecting the cat from harmful UV rays. Plastic creates the need for excellent ventilation to prevent overheating, and consequently, the Halinfer has nine vents that keep the cat comfortable when the backpack is closed. When the backpack gets expanded, there are mesh sides to improve airflow even more. Finally, the Halinfer meets most airlines’ safety standards.

4. Best for Travel – LOLLIMEW Pet Rolling Carrier

Best Cat Travel Backpack

LOLLIMEW Pet Rolling Carrier

If carrying your cat on your back won’t cut it, the LOLLIMEW saves your back and lets your cat come along for the ride.

$54.99

Buy on Amazon

The LOLLIMEW Pet Rolling Carrier functions as a backpack or a rolling carrier, and it’s this rolling option that will save your back when you start to get tired. Despite the wheels, the backpack is relatively lightweight at just under six pounds and can hold cats up to 16 pounds.

Three mesh side panels keep the cat from overheating, including a rollable top panel for the cat who likes to peek out. Safety zippers and a safety hook provide added security. A telescoping rod extends up to 20 inches, and this model also includes storage pockets for a few treats. Quiet spinning wheels offer your cat a smooth ride, too.

5. Best Expandable – Pecute Pet Carrier Backpack

Best Expandable Cat Backpack

Pecute Pet Carrier Backpack

Versatile setup options let your pet lounge and travel in safety and comfort in this backpack.

Buy on Amazon

The Pecute Pet Carrier Backpack offers a large travel space and an even larger lounge area when expanded. Mesh panels on all sides provide plenty of ventilation, and the top panel can open for a good view. Locking zippers and a retractable safety leash give owners peace of mind and can keep your cat safe. The expandable space also features mesh sides for great ventilation but lets cats move around when they’re not being carried.

I like that it has well-padded shoulder straps that adjust to fit the wearer. This feature not only makes it more comfortable to wear but also more stable for the cat. A firm, sturdy bottom offers a secure foundation for cats up to 18 pounds, while the removable and washable soft, foam padding at the bottom keeps cats comfortable too. Though it’s large, the Pecute folds flat for easy storage.

This is a picture of Pinecone The Bernedoodle (my daughter named him – 100% approval rating for the name so far). Pinecone is now around a year old, this was him as a six week old puppy:

All the cute, right? (He’s a bit bigger now – more current pictures below, no spoilers though).

My family was very excited to get Pinecone home, but we were not fully prepared.

Lots of issues can crop up if you don’t have the right puppy supplies when you first become a puppy parent:

• Your puppy can destroy your things or make themselves sick if you don’t have the right toys (to occupy them), walking accessories (to keep them healthy and work out energy), and crates and gates (to keep them out of problem areas)
• Your dog can be malnourished if you don’t have the proper food, water, and bowls for water and food
• Your dog can be uncomfortable if you buy the wrong crate or don’t have a dog bed
• Your neighbors may be a bit upset with you if you don’t have poop bags and a pooper scooper

I’ll walk through all of that and more in this post so you can be the best pet parent possible.

I also asked our veterinary advisor Dr. Jamie Whittenburg to offer new pet owners a series of tips from a vet’s perspective about bringing home a new puppy.

You can get all of those insights in her free 5 week course, but we’ll share some of that information (particularly as it regards topics like which vaccines to give your puppy) in the post below.

Basically?

This is the checklist I wish I’d had before my best bud spent his first night in our house.

New Puppy Checklist: EVERYTHING You Need to Know

First off, let’s get right to the checklists (lots more to follow after that).

The New Puppy Checklist is broken into two sections: Day One Essentials and Week One Considerations.

1. Day One Essentials are things every new dog owner will need, and that you should have before you even get your pup home.
2. Week One Considerations fall into a few buckets:

• Items or services that either some dog owners will need but not all
• Things you’ll likely need but not right away
• Things you don’t need, but should consider

We have an interactive checklist, which lets you physically check things off right here on the website, as well as a PDF which lets you print out or download the full checklist, and the images all here for you.

Interactive Checklist

Share This on Your Site (Just Copy / Paste):

</p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> <p><strong>Please include attribution to petnewsdaily.com with this graphic.</strong></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> <p><a href=’https://petnewsdaily.com/new-puppy-checklist/’><img src=’https://form.jotform.com/jsform/222700963510044′ alt=’The New Puppy Checklist from Pet News Daily’ 400px /></a></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> <p>

PDF

If you want the checklist as a PDF to print you can either click here and get the New Puppy Checklist PDF or input your Email below and we’ll send it to you that way:

Share This (PDF) on Your Site (Just Copy / Paste)

</p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> <p><strong>Please include attribution to petnewsdaily.com with this graphic.</strong></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> <p><a href=’https://petnewsdaily.com/new-puppy-checklist/’><img src=’https://form.jotform.com/jsform/222705913497058′ alt=’The New Puppy Checklist (PDF) from Pet News Daily’ 400px /></a></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> <p>

Finally, you can grab the day 1 essentials as an image:

Or get the week 1 considerations the same way:

Day 1 Essentials Checklist: New Puppy Supplies

Now you get the general idea here in terms of what you’ll need for your dog from day one. Let’s dive into which specific products you should buy for your puppy in each category.

1. Puppy Food

The dog food you pick is obviously going to depend a ton on the breed of dog you have. Personally my vet recommended Purina Pro Plan sensitive stomach for large breeds puppy food for Pinecone (at the time he was having some digestive issues – largely because of eating his own poop but that’s neither here nor there).

Your dog may not need the sensitive stomach version, though, so you can consider the brand that’s best for your them, like the high protein variety below.

Our Top Pick

Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dry Puppy Food

My dog has had a great experience with Purina Pro Plan – this is the high protein dry puppy variety.

$69.98

Buy on Amazon

The Purina Pro Plan is a bit pricey. If you’re looking for other resources we have all kinds of vet-chosen lists of different types of dog food like the best small breed puppy foods, the best foods for dogs with allergies, and more dog food info.

2. Puppy Food & Water Bowls

I would hope any prospective puppy owners would realize they’re going to need bowls for food and water, but what kind?

My guy Pinecone is a very energetic puppy, and drinks that way. He’s been known to drink so aggressively that there’s “more water on the floor than in his belly” when he’s done. For that reason I like to have something holding his water bowls (for our smaller, older dogs we don’t find this necessary).

We tried a “no spill / no slip” brand – that may be a fit for some but Pinecone would actually flip over both bowls knocking them out of the container, then chew on the rubber no spill / stain mat (true story – he’s a bit of a handful).

What worked much better for us was a tray that held the bowls (for the bowls themselves I’d recommend stainless steel bowls over plastic bowls) – this is a great one:

Our Top Pick

VIEFIN Elevated Dog Bowls Set

This is a cool adjustable bowl set and tray.

Buy on Amazon

The neat thing about this set is its adjustable so you can ratchet it up or down depending on the size of your dog as your puppy grows.

3. Puppy Collar or Harness

Picking the right collar for your dog can be tricky. We actually created a great dog collar size chart (if I do say so myself, which I do) and a companion article about how tight your dog’s adjustable collar should be (written by our veterinary advisor Dr. Jennifer Masucci).

Share This Dog Collar Size Chart on Your Site

You may not even want to go with a collar – for Pinecone we have both a few collars and a few harnesses. It seems like there’s some difference of opinion among experts on which is the best approach. Some trainers say a collar is important as a training tool, and some say the pull on the dog’s neck is unhealthy and a harness is better for them.

Our vets have reviewed a variety of harnesses (including no pull, the best dog lift harnesses, and the best escape proof dog harnesses). The escape proof dog harness article is one of our most popular, and our vet advisor Dr. Addie Reinhard chose the Ruffwear Webmaster Harness (click that link for an in-depth review of that harness, as well).

Our Vet’s Top Pick

RUFFWEAR Web Master Multi-Use Support Dog Harness

For the best in Escape-proof dog harnesses, look no further than the RUFFWEAR Web Master Multi-Use Support Dog Harness.

$44.95

Buy on Amazon

4. Puppy ID Tags

Getting your puppy an ID tag with your information on it is always a good idea. There are lots of good options, my personal preference is a stainless steel engraved one like this one:

Our Top Pick

GoTags Stainless Steel Pet ID Tags

GoTags stainless steel pet ID tags offer engraving and are stainless steel.

$8.95

Buy on Amazon

But many of them are pretty similar in terms of function.

5. Puppy Leashes

To walk your new puppy you’ll obviously need a leash. In general leashes don’t leave you with the moral quandaries of collars vs harnesses, and it’s easier to figure out the size. If you have a large breed puppy you’ll need something more durable, of course. A lot of harnesses will come with a leash, as well.

For smaller dogs I like the retractable leashes so that you don’t run into tangles. Pinecone – as you maybe figured out by this point in the article – can not be contained by such leashes. We use a leather leash for him, here is a great model:

Our Top Pick

FAIRWIN Braided Leather Dog Leash

This is a very highly rated leather dog leash with over 4,700 ratings.

$20.99

Buy on Amazon

6. Puppy Poop Bags

There is no worse feeling in the world than being on a walk with your dog, them starting to squat, and you realizing you forgot your dog poop bags. You can get into fights, even lawsuits with neighbors over not cleaning up after your dog.

Poop bags are critical. If you’re lucky, you will have a well behaved dog that doesn’t try to eat the dog poop bags every time he sees them (including when they have actual poop in them – wait until you see these pictures of Pinecone the Destroyer at the end of the post).

For that reason, I typically buy these in bulk. Amazon basics has a very cheap line of poop bags (the lavendar scented ones actually do smell pretty good – until they serve their purpose, anyway) and this biodegradable line is actually a bit cheaper per bag.

Our Top Pick

ATIFBOP Biodegradable Dog Poop Bags

Affordably priced, highly rated biodegradable dog poop bags.

$11.99

Buy on Amazon

7. Puppy Crates

As with collars, picking the right sized crate for your dog is key. We have a helpful dog crate size chart to help with this as well (with help from our veterinary consultant Dr. Jennifer Coates):

Share This Dog Crate Size Chart on Your Site

Dr. Addie Reinhard reviewed the top heavy duty dog crates (Pinecone is now pushing 90 lbs at under a year old, so we definitely need a large dog crate) here was her pick:

Our Vet’s Top Pick

Frisco Ultimate Heavy Duty Steel Dog Crate

Half-inch, 22-gauge steel with welded stress points keeps dogs safe and secure.

Check Price

Pay attention to the dog crate size chart: you don’t want to get something too big, but we had two crates that Pinecone outgrew which can be a major hassle (and cost) if you’re not smart about crate sizing from the jump.

If you have a smaller dog, getting a crate can be a little more straightforward. We’ve bought this crate twice for our two smaller, older dogs and its been great (and only around $25).

8. Puppy Beds

For his part, Pinecone is a sprawl out on the floor kind of a guy, but our smaller dogs do like to snuggle in a bed on occasion. It’s a good idea to have some dog bedding options (and potentially some blankets) set up for your pup when you bring them home.

There are lots of different options when it comes to dog bedding. We’ve written extensively on this topic, with guides to outdoor beds, sofa beds, elevated dog beds, and more.

Even though potty training Pinecone has gone better than *ahem* some other aspects of his training, I’m a big fan of waterproof dog beds just in case the process doesn’t go as smoothly for your dog.

Here is vet advisor Dr. Amanda Jondle’s top pick:

Our Vet’s Top Pick

PupLounge Memory Foam Bolster Bed and Topper

An extremely comfortable bed with a supportive bolster and a faux fur topper.

Check Price

Don’t forget to check out our tips for getting a puppy to sleep through the night, as well.

9. Puppy Toys

Having lots of options for dog toys available when your dog gets home is key. You can’t really tell what toys a dog will take to, so I’d recommend getting a bit of a mix of different types of toys to see what your dog likes.

It’s not a “toy” strictly speaking, but Pinecone is a very “food motivated” dog who doesn’t like to sit still when being brushed or groomed, so our vet recommended a lick mat. I like the thinner lick mats like this one as the thick ones (like this) require a lot of peanut butter (what we use for this purpose) which is very calorie dense.

Again for toys it’ll likely be a personal preference for your dog – I’d try some different categories of toys, such as:

• Toys that squeak
• Dog bones
• Dog toys with treats embedded in them (basically small puzzle toys)
• Puzzle toys for dogs (which can be great for slow feeding and mental stimulation)

Be mindful of the size and aggression of your dog when it comes to toys – Pinecone will destroy pretty much anything he comes in contact with and small toys can be a choking hazard for him. Multiple dogs can also be aggressive when it comes to toys, particularly those with treats embedded in them or with dog bones.

10. Puppy Treats

Treats are an important part of leveraging positive reinforcement while training your puppy. Pinecone is a bacon flavor kind of a guy, but he’s not picky at all when it comes to training treats. Again here I’d recommend trying a few different types of treats and seeing what your puppy likes best.

11. Puppy Shampoo

If potty and crate training don’t go as planned early on, you’ll want to have some shampoo handy. You can actually use baby shampoo to bath your dog, but finding a sweet smelling shampoo you like that’s made for dogs is a good idea.

We’re a Nature’s Miracle family (more on that below) so here’s my personal top pick:

Our Top Pick

Nature’s Miracle Oatmeal Shampoo

An oatmeal based shampoo with an aloe scent from Nature’s Miracle.

$34.22

Buy on Amazon

12. Puppy Brush

Having a brush ready to avoid any mats in your puppy is key, especially if you have a breed that needs to be brushed frequently (like Bernedoodles).

Our vet advisor Dr. Chyrle Bonk recommended the GM pets self cleaning slicker in her review of the best dog brushes for Australian Shepherds.

I bought it based on her recommendation, and I have to say I do really love it. Pinecone is not currently a fan of being brushed in general:

But it does a great job of catching hair and brushing out mats without being overly uncomfortable for your puppy:

So that’s our top pick:

Our Vet’s Top Pick

GM Pets Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush

This self-cleaning brush is strong and effective on Australian Shepherds, plus it’s designed to be comfortable to use.

Buy on Amazon

13. Stain & Odor Remover

Your puppy may have a way to go with potty training, and may get into something they shouldn’t leading them to throw up some. If either or both of these are the case, you want to have a good stain and odor remover on hand.

Personally I find all of the Nature’s Miracle products really are a bit of a miracle at getting out smells and stains.

I’d recommend having the Urine Destroyer, a fabric cleaner, and potentially a larger order of pet cleanup solvent on hand, depending on what you’re dealing with. If you go with another brand just make sure you have an enzyme spray to help break down urine stains.

And a bonus tip: Windex. It doesn’t do much for the smell, but it’s very versatile in terms of being able to go on all kinds of surfaces for clean up, so stock up.

14. LOTS of Paper Towels

This one is preventative in case the crate and potty training don’t go well – enough said, I’m sure you can find these on your own.

15. Find a Veterinarian

It’s critical to have a vet lined up before you bring your dog home. If you can get a referral from a family member or friend that’s a great way to go.

Week 1 Considerations: More Puppy Equipment, Vet & Training Checklist Items

You can’t necessarily get everything ready at once when you’re bringing home your puppy. If you need to work in phases, the items above are absolutely essential. These next items will be important for some breeds, may be essential but may not be something you need to deal with right away, or might be more of something to consider (and not a necessity).

1. Puzzle Toys

When Pinecone first got into puzzle toys, I thought he was some sort of savant. He absolutely loved them, and seemed to “solve” them pretty quickly.

I learned that he was basically just flipping them over and ripping the pieces out of them. Regardless, though, they can be a great way to slow feed your dog and keep their minds busy.

I have tried probably pretty much every puzzle toy on the market. I don’t like to have the puzzle toy be overly simple, and I don’t want them to have pouches that are too big so I’m not over-feeding while I’m slow feeding. This is one of my favorites for those reasons, and because of the interactivity of the puzzle here’s my top pick:

Our Top Pick

KADTC Dog Puzzle Toy Dogs

This is a fun puzzle toy for dogs (it’s almost like a human board game!).

$29.90

Buy on Amazon

Clippers

If your dog requires a lot of grooming you may want to get clippers and other grooming tools sooner rather than later. Vet advisor Dr. Bonk reviewed the top grooming clippers and this was her number one pick:

Our Vet’s Top Pick

Andis UltraEdge Super 2-Speed Clipper

Groom your dog more easily with clippers that feature two speeds and a long cord.

$239.99

Buy on Amazon

Dental

You may also consider picking up some toothpaste and / or a toothbrush for your dog.

Playpen

Depending on your yard and your home, you may want to consider a dog playpen, an outdoor kennel, or even some sort of dog fencing to keep your dog contained.

Our vet advisor, Dr. Jamie Whittenburg, selected this as the top playpen:

Best Overall

BestPet Extra Large Indoor Outdoor Dog Fence Playpen

If you want the best of the best dog playpens, look no further than the BestPet Extra Large Indoor Outdoor Dog Fence Playpen.

$149.98

Buy on Amazon

Gates

Gates are key – we have gates at the top and bottom of a variety of stair cases, and need to gate of the kitchen in our house to keep Pinecone from counter surfing and getting into areas he shouldn’t.

There are lots of attractive gate options for around $80-100. We have the gate below and have been happy with it (it was easy to install and doesn’t come down easily):

Best Overall

COMOMY 36

An easy to set up, reliable gate.

$89.99

Buy on Amazon

Vaccines

This is obviously something you’ll want to work out with your vet. In her free course Dr. Jamie Whittenburg DVM outlined the following regarding vaccines for your puppy:

Tips from Our Vets

Dr. Jamie Whittenburg
DVM

How do puppy vaccines work?

Puppy vaccines will typically begin between six and eight weeks of age. Additional doses will be given every 2-4 weeks, depending on the veterinarian’s preference and the puppy’s lifestyle. In total, each pup should receive four to five sets of puppy vaccines.

When your veterinarian gives your puppy a vaccine, the immune system will be activated. The protection from the vaccine will lag behind the actual vaccine administration by approximately two weeks. This lag should be kept in mind following the final set, before the puppy is taken to areas that may expose them to infectious diseases.

Multiple doses of the vaccines are given to puppies because they may still have antibodies circulating in their systems that they received from their mothers. These maternal antibodies protect the very young puppy in their first few weeks of life but will interfere with the vaccine-induced antibody production. It is impossible to know when your puppy’s maternal antibodies have disappeared, so vaccines will be given regularly until four to five months of age to ensure they are effective.

Typical Puppy Vaccine Schedule:

Age                                          Core Vaccines

6 to 8 weeks                          Distemper, Parvovirus, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza

9 to 11 weeks                         Distemper, Parvovirus, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza

12 to 14 weeks                       Rabies, Distemper, Parvovirus, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza

16+ weeks                              Distemper, Parvovirus, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza

Non-Core Vaccines

Bordetella, Influenza, Leptospirosis, Rattlesnake, Lyme

These non-core vaccines may be recommended for your puppy based on their geographical area, breed, and anticipated lifestyle. For example, dogs that are going to be groomed or boarded at a kennel will likely require the Bordetella vaccine. Dogs that are used for hunting or that spend time on ranches in certain areas may benefit from the rattlesnake vaccine. Talk to your puppy’s veterinarian about which non-core vaccines may be right for them.

Side Effects of Vaccines

Side effects due to puppy vaccines are relatively rare. Mild soreness, local inflammatory reactions (bumps), tiredness, and low-grade fever are possible. These side effects are typically mild and self-limiting. They are also a signal that the puppy’s immune system is responding appropriately.

There is always a small risk of a severe allergic reaction, or anaphylaxis, any time a vaccine or medication is administered to a human or animal. Following the administration of a vaccine, if you observe hives, swelling of the face or ears, difficulty breathing, vomiting, or loss of control of the bowel and bladder, you should take your puppy back to their veterinarian or an emergency clinic immediately.

Final Thoughts

Vaccines are one of the best and easiest ways to protect your puppy and keep them healthy. Vaccine preventable diseases such as distemper and parvovirus are very common in unvaccinated puppies. These diseases are often fatal, even with veterinary treatment. Puppy vaccine visits will start a relationship with your veterinarian and enable them to keep your new puppy healthy and happy! Each vaccine visit will also allow a veterinarian to examine your puppy, enabling them to catch any health issues early

If you want to track the vaccine schedule for your puppy against Drk. Whittenburg’s recommendations, here is the puppy vaccine schedule she laid out above (you can have it sent to you via Email if that’s helpful as well):

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Flea, Tick & Dewormer

Similarly, this is something you’ll want to get squared away with your vet, ideally at the first visit.

Pet Insurance

In that same free course Dr. Whittenburg has the following to say about weighing whether you need pet insurance for your dog:

Tips from Our Vets

Dr. Jamie Whittenburg
DVM

What is Pet Health Insurance?

Pet health insurance helps owners cover the cost of necessary medical care for their pets. Insurance often covers routine preventative care, accidents and illnesses, cancer treatment, emergency care, and even prescription medications. Most pet health insurance companies work from a reimbursement model where the owner pays the veterinarian up front and then applies for reimbursement from the insurance company.

It is important to note that for pet health insurance to be effective, owners must have the ability to pay the veterinarian when services are rendered and then apply for reimbursement. This may be a credit card or savings account, but all pet owners must be prepared for this. A few pet health insurance companies will pay the veterinarian directly, but the veterinarian used must be in their network.

When Should I Purchase Pet Health Insurance?

The best time to purchase pet health insurance for your dog is when they are young and healthy. Pet health insurance rarely covers pre-existing conditions, so it is vital to have coverage in place before your puppy has any health issues.

How Much Does Pet Halth Insurance Cost?

Pet health insurance plans vary based on things such as breed, age, pre-existing conditions, and geographical location. On average, you should expect to pay around $600 a year for a dog’s accident and illness plan.

There are other options, including accident only and even preventive care only plans that may be more affordable but still help ease the burden of paying for veterinary care. It is also important to note that the premium you pay when you purchase pet health insurance for your puppy will not be locked in. Rates for pet health insurance raise as the dog ages, so be sure to ask about the company’s policies. Often pet owners find themselves unable to afford rising premiums at the exact age that their pet needs pet health insurance the most.

Are there Good Alternatives to Pet Health Insurance?

As a practicing veterinarian, I have seen firsthand how difficult it can be for owners to pay for their pet’s healthcare. It is heart-wrenching to have to make medical care decisions for your beloved pet based on limited finances. Pet health insurance can be a great option for many owners, enabling them to provide the necessary care for their pet needs. However, because of the need to be able to pay upfront, rising premiums, and exclusions of coverage, there may be better ways to plan.

Savings Accounts

Starting a savings account for your new puppy may be the best way to ensure that you can pay for their necessary health care. Funds deposited into a savings account will be available 100% for use for your pet as opposed to paying a monthly premium to a pet insurance company.

Though this approach requires some discipline on the part of the owner, it has several distinct advantages over pet health insurance. For one, there is no money lost to premiums. If your puppy stays healthy, the money will accumulate and can either be spent on routine and preventative care or allowed to grow until it is needed. Additionally, a savings account will always be available to be spent. There is no need to worry about being able to pay upfront or waiting for reimbursement. Lastly, a savings account eliminates the circumstance of an aging pet losing its coverage due to unaffordable premium increases.

The downsides to using a savings account are that you might not have enough saved up in the event that your puppy requires expensive care when young and you haven’t had a chance to save very much. Also, the pet owner must be disciplined to make regular contributions to the account and not use the money for anything other than health care for the pet.

Final Thoughts

With major technological advances in veterinary medicine, we can provide state-of-the-art care to pets and help them live longer and healthier lives. Unfortunately, these advances come with higher price tags, and it is imperative that new puppy owners are prepared. All owners should evaluate their financial situation and, if needed, purchase pet health insurance to start a savings account for their pet.

Puppy Trainer

You want to consider a puppy trainer, or potentially an online training course.

Pet Sitter

Similarly getting a pet sitter lined up is another key for early in your puppy’s life.

Groomer

Similarly even if you have a great brush, comb, and clippers you still want to find a good groomer near you.

Puppy Gift Boxes

If you’re welcoming someone else’s puppy home, there are a few places to get puppy gift boxes or welcome home boxes. These won’t be as comprehensive as running through the checklists here and getting everything you need, but they can be a nice start or a great gift:

• Chewy’s Goody Boxes 
• Bark Box

What You Need By Breed

While most of the items in a new puppy checklist will be universal (with some adjustments to things like the size of a crate, the type of dog bed, the types of toys or food, etc.) some breeds will have specific needs.

Here are a few breeds and how you might modify a checklist for each:

• Golden Retriever – I had a Golden named Flash growing up. You’ll want a great brush for your Golden Retriever because while they have beautiful hair, they shed a lot and need to be brushed consistently. You’ll also want to get a larger crate, and large breed puppy food. If you’re not sure about crate size, you can get a sense of how big your Golden will be with our Golden Retriever growth chart.
• Labrador – A Labrador is another breed where you’ll need good grooming materials. Here again we have a great growth chart to help you with crate sizing.
• French Bulldog – French bulldogs won’t have the same grooming requirements as labs, goldens and doodles, but will require things like puzzle toys to keep them occupied and a specific food type, as well as a number of the other standard checklist items.
• Goldendoodle – Goldendoodles are an incredibly popular breed these days. As someone who grew up with a Golden and currently has a doodle, I do love this breed. Similar to some of the breeds above: have a great grooming kit, and check out our Goldendoodle growth chart to help with crate sizing (Know more about Goldendoodle growth chart in our weigh calculator).
• Dauschaund – My family actually has a Dauschaund too! These little guys are much different than some of the bigger breeds above. They need less grooming, smaller crates, and very different food. You may also be able to worry less about things like gates in certain areas of your home as there’s a lot less concern about counter surfing (unless you have teeny, tiny counters).

Additional Resources

If you’re more of a visual learner, there are a lot of great videos about what to have ready for your new puppy as well.

First, here’s one from dog trainer Zak George:

And another from McCann Dog Training:

And finally another from prolific dog rescuer Rachel Fusaro:

BONUS: Pinecone The Destroyer Pictures

I teased it in the intro so I’ll close with some pictures of the world’s sweetest, but worst-behaved Bernadoodle in action.

Here is Pinecone, now close to 90 pounds, with “his” football standing next to what had been a tablecloth before it met it’s match in the Pinester:

He likes peanut butter:

And melatonin? (I did not let him get the actual melatonin, if you’re scoring at home).

And finally a perfect visual as to why you want to have lots of paper towels stocked before you bring home your puppy:

It’s cliche to say but as you can see from the pictures: puppies are often both very cute, and very much a full time job. Good luck!

A new puppy makes an exciting addition to any family.

Puppies are much like human babies. They’re not capable of fully controlling their bodies, including their bowels, for the first few months of life.¹ Aligning your expectations with the puppy’s physical abilities will prevent frustration for both of you.

When Should I Start House Training?

House training starts with a consistent, patient owner, realistic expectations, and a house training plan. The first step to house training begins before your puppy enters the home. Decide where you’d like your puppy to eliminate. Choosing a specific spot or area will help your puppy associate eliminating himself in the same place, which means he’s more likely not to eliminate himself in other areas. A potty training plan that includes the area of the house to the door you’d like the dog to use are important.

It’s also a good idea to have a quality cleaning product that eliminates odors. Accidents will happen. A dog’s sensitive nose will detect the smell of urine or feces, acting as a cue to go in the same spot again. Consequently, be ready to clean up accidents promptly and thoroughly.

How Old Should My Puppy Be Before I Start Potty Training?

House training can begin as soon as you bring the puppy home, around seven to eight weeks old. However, depending on how old the puppy is, it could be a while before he’s capable of controlling his bladder and bowels and consistently going at and in the appropriate places.

Like humans, puppies have to learn what it feels like when their body tells them it’s time ‘to go.’ However, you can help him by taking him to eliminate himself on a regular schedule. Puppies (and dogs) typically need to go:

• at least once during the night (until about two to five months old)
• immediately after waking in the morning or after a nap
• after a big drink or meal
• during and/or after playtime
• every one to two hours, in addition to the above times

You and your family will need to keep a close eye on your puppy and follow a regular schedule until he starts to recognize his need to eliminate on his own. That might take close observation on your part, but most puppies give some signs of needing to go.

Signs Your Puppy Needs To Eliminate

Every puppy is different, but there are some predictable behaviors that indicate your pup needs to relieve himself. Pups often stop whatever they’re doing or sniff and circle before they go in for the squat. As soon as you see your puppy starting to show these behaviors, take him on a trip outside to his potty area.

Housetraining 101

Here are 5 key consideration for housetraining your puppy:

1. Leash and Companionship

Always use a leash to take your puppy to eliminate himself. A leash assures that he doesn’t run away if he gets startled or excited. Stay with your pup. Don’t send your pup out alone because he may skip going potty to get back to his favorite people.

2. Use the Same Spot

Take him to the same area every time to help him learn where you’d like him to go. It can take a couple of eliminations for a puppy to completely empty his bladder. Be sure to wait two to five minutes for the first elimination, and stay an extra few minutes to make sure he’s finished.

3. Praise and Reward

Praise and reward your pup in a happy, calm voice and offer a small treat. Reward your pup near his ‘go’ spot rather than after he’s back inside, so he understands what he’s being praised for.

4. Intro a Cue

Some owners like to introduce a cue, like “go potty,” “bathroom,” or something similar. When your pup starts to eliminate, say the cue word quietly and calmly. This process helps them associate the word with the act.

5. Train the “Ask”

As house training progresses, you can train your dog to “ask” to go. Some dogs do this on their own by staring at or going to the door or barking at their person. You can train the dog to ring a bell near the door or some other audible signal if you’d prefer. Be sure to praise your dog when he successfully responds to the “ask.”

What To Do When You’re Gone

Potty training can get derailed when your puppy is left unsupervised. A general rule of thumb is that a puppy can hold their urine for their age plus one in hours.² If your pup is four months old, that means he can probably hold his urine for five hours.

Crate your puppy or section off a small area of your house if you’ll be gone within the safe window of elimination. Make sure the crate or area is somewhere your puppy enjoys being. You can do that by offering toys and treats inside this area at times when you’re around, so he has positive associations with it.

If you’re gone longer than the puppy can realistically hold their urine, try confining your puppy to a specific area and include a pee pad where he can relieve himself. It might take time to train your dog to go on a pee pad too, so again, try to be patient.

Housetraining Tips and Tricks

• Feed your dog on a consistent schedule. Pups have to go 15 to 20 minutes after a meal. That gives you a good idea of when he might need to go and an excellent opportunity for a successful potty trip.
• Take your dog out every two hours in the early days of house training. Set an alarm to take him out at least once a night.
• Constant supervision is key to consistent training. Try not to leave your puppy alone for more than two to three hours at a time. If you have to be gone longer, leave your puppy in a small area with a pee pad or other place that he’s been trained to go.
• Don’t get angry at your puppy or rub his face in his waste if he has an accident. Instead, clean it thoroughly and stick to your training, including close supervision.
• If your pup starts going while you’re watching, make a loud noise to interrupt him and immediately take him to the appropriate area.
• If your puppy’s trip outside isn’t successful (as in he doesn’t go when you know he probably needs to), try confining your puppy to his crate, the kitchen or laundry room, or another confined space for 15 minutes and try again.

When Is My Puppy Fully House Trained?

Puppies aren’t considered fully house trained until they’ve gone 8 to 12 weeks without an accident. Some puppies can achieve this by six months old. However, others may take a year to reach this point. Remember that puppies are all different, just like people. Their bodies and abilities develop on their own schedule. Try to be patient and consistent as you guide your pup through proper house training.

Additional Resources

We’ve created a lot of great resources for new dog owners:

• Our New Puppy Checklist
• A Guide to crate train a puppy
• A guide to getting a puppy to sleep through the night
• Our Puppy Weight Calculator
• Our puppy growth chart

Reasons Why Dogs Run Away

1. The Need To Breed

When an un-neutered male detects a female in heat miles away, he will follow pheromones right over the fence.¹ Intact females also move mountains to find love when the time is right. Dogs have been known to jump fences, tear through garage doors, or leave frisbee partners mid-toss, all in response to hormonal urges.

2. Boredom Meets Opportunity

Dogs need adequate exercise and mental stimulation. This is especially true for high energy and working breeds.² A dog left in the yard may have fresh air, but without a play partner or other enrichment, their attention will wander. If opportunity arises in the form of a weak fence, open gate, or loose collar, dogs may seek adventure in the big outside world.

3. The Thrill of the Chase

Squirrels and rabbits and deer, oh my! My dog may be hyper-focused in a group game of fetch at the park, but as soon as a squirrel catches his eye, he’s off and running. Prey drive can lead your dog over the hills and through the woods.³ Some dogs even chase cars or delivery trucks. Regardless of the target, many dogs won’t stop until they tree a squirrel or lose sight of a vehicle.

4. Anxiety and Fear

My parents’ second night in their new country home was the Fourth of July. Their Bernese Mountain dog bolted at the first ear-shattering crack of fireworks, set against the backdrop of a raging thunderstorm. He was found five miles away by a kindly stranger, soaked and scared. A dog terrified by a thunderstorm, fireworks, or even a stranger will do just about anything to find refuge. Unfortunately, a petrified pooch may run to unfamiliar territory, becoming lost and even more scared.⁴

5. Previous Attachments

Dogs sometimes acquire new families, whether due to an owner’s death, a move, or allergic family members. We think our “rescued” dogs are lucky to have our warm and loving home, but they may pine for their previous surroundings. Dogs have been found miles from their new homes, waiting on their former doorsteps. They may also go looking for a favorite doggie playmate who moved away.

The good news is that we can take steps to help prevent unscheduled jogs after loose dogs. Keep reading for advice on how to keep your dog from running away.

How To Keep Your Hound at Home

The Big Fix

First, if your dog has not been neutered or spayed, talk to your vet. Sterilization will curb the urge, and eliminate impromptu doggie dates.⁵ Breeding dogs should be well-contained in a yard that defies canine ingenuity in the face of pheromones.

Exercise, Enrichment and Training

A well-exercised dog is less likely to take a self-guided hike.⁶ Consider a mid-day dog walker in addition to your morning and evening walks. Find a fenced place to let your pooch fetch off-leash if you aren’t up for a jog yourself. If your dog is new to your family, nurture new bonds through play, belly rubs, and training classes. Agility classes give dogs purpose and reinforce your bond.

Obedience training is especially important. Practice commands such as “stay” and “come” in varied situations. Teach your dog an emergency recall, where they expect a very high value reward upon their return. Always praise and reward your dog when they respond to your calls.

Secure the Borders

Opportunity may be the only motivation for a curious dog to escape. Make sure your fence is high enough to contain jumpers, and reinforce weak spots. Prevent front door escapes with pet gates, indoor leashing, and training.

For car rides, load your furry pal while in the closed garage if possible. Always transport your escape artist in a dog crate to keep him from bolting when you open your car door. It’s impossible to remove critters from your neighborhood, but secure fences, doors, and cars, along with an appropriate collar or harness, can all help keep your best friend safe.

Develop a Plan for Anxiety

Talk to your veterinarian well in advance of an anticipated anxiety trigger such as fireworks or thunderstorms. Many dogs respond well to the Thundershirt, natural calming supplements, and desensitization training. Your vet may recommend prescription medications. A calm dog is less likely to bolt out of fear and out the door.⁷

How To Ensure A Safe Return

Simple measures can ensure a safe and prompt return if your pooch becomes lost. Make sure your dog has a microchip implanted and that their ID tags are current. When my parents’ dog got lost on July Fourth, I learned that they had not updated his microchip information or ID tags! After calling multiple shelters and vet clinics, we learned he’d been dropped off with a local vet. My parents must have aged ten years that night while out looking for him in the driving storm.

For chronic wanderers, consider a GPS tracking collar, and keep current photos of your dog. The Humane Society of the United States has great tips for what to do when your dog is missing.

Understanding why your dog may run away can help guide preventative steps toward keeping your pooch by your side, regardless of the weather. So go ahead and order pizza, just remember to click the pet gate closed before answering the door.

You may want to check out our list of resources on dog fences or dog harnesses if you’re having issues with dogs running away.

On the other hand, you don’t want to buy something that’s bigger than you need, particularly if you’re going to have the crate in a small space or small room. My family has a Bernedoodle that is now 87 pounds. We bought the wrong size crate for him twice as he grew. Crates are heavy, tough to store, and can be expensive (in some cases you may even want to skip buying a crate altogether and consider an indoor dog house).

Either way, we want to keep you from making the same mistake I did!

For that reason, we consulted our veterinarian, Dr. Jennifer Coates, about the how big a dog crate should be for your dog. Find out below so you don’t make the same mistake I did.

How Big Should a Dog Crate Be? What’s the Right Size Crate for My Dog?

According to veterinary advisor Dr. Coates DVM, a crate should be several inches longer than a dog’s body length (minus their tail) to ensure comfort.

Additionally, your dog should be able to stand up, and turn around comfortably in the crate.

In order to figure that out, measure your dog from the tip of his nose to the base of his tail, along his side. The most convenient time to do this is when he’s already lying down stretched out. How he normally spreads out gives you a better idea of what size the crate should be.

Here is our dog crate size chart to help you map this for your own dog:

We consulted our veterinarian, Dr. Jennifer Coates, about the best dog crate size you should get your dog. After Dr. Coates reviewed and approved the data, we created a dog crate size chart for your convenience. Whether you’re the caregiver of a Chihuahua, Beagle, Boxer, or Bernese Mountain Dog, our chart provides the information you need to choose the size of your dog crate wisely.

Dog Crate Size Chart

To find out which sized crate you may need based on your dog’s breed or weight, check out our custom and comprehensive dog crate size chart below.

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Text Transcript of Dog Crate Size Chart

Reasons to Use a Dog Crate

Dog crates are an investment in your dog’s well-being. Regardless of how your pooch comes into your life – as a brand new puppy, young adult, or older senior, dog crates serve multiple uses. Use a dog crate for:

1. House training
2. Behavioral training
3. Travel
4. Emergencies
5. Rest from injury or surgery
6. Private hideaway

Dog crates come in handy for house training; most dogs don’t like to soil the area where they sleep, which encourages them to hold their bladder. Fearful or destructive dogs also benefit from a crate – it provides a place to retreat, regroup, and stay safe. It’s animal instinct to find a small, hidden spot to rest, away from predators, positioned so their back is protected and there’s not much to surveil. For this reason as well, crates give your dog a safe and secure place to recover from an injury or surgery, when remaining relatively immobile is crucial to healing.¹

No matter what your reason is for using a dog crate or kennel, getting your pup used to one as soon as possible is highly recommended. Not all dogs will like a crate, but if for no other reason, emergencies often warrant the use of a crate. Whether for evacuation and safe travels or recovery from injury, an emergency is not the way to first introduce your dog to a crate or kennel. It should signify a safe, comforting place, not a scary one.

Types of Dog Crates or Kennels

With so many types of dog crates or kennels (from large heavy duty dog crates to outdoor dog kennels to indoor dog houses) to choose from, how do you know which one to pick? Each type of crate serves a different purpose.

• Plastic dog crates are typically used to transport dogs, whether by car or plane. They often feature a hard, vented shell with one door. A carry handle sits on top for easier transportation. Plastic dog crate sizes are varied, though, and crates come in different colors, patterns, and designs.
• Wire or metal dog crates look like grid fencing on all sides, which allows for unrestricted airflow. These crates generally fold flat for easy storage and portability. They feature a hard plastic bottom tray. A wire crate is frequently used in homes, rescues, shelters, and outdoor areas.
• End table dog crates, or furniture dog crates, double as decoration for your home. These crates are often made of wood and are stylish and typically more expensive. End table dog crates are better for dogs who have already been crate-trained and are comfortable hanging out in useable furniture.
• Soft dog crates are made out of a soft, pliable material, such as nylon or canvas, and are often used for travel with small dogs. They’re portable and store well. A soft dog crate usually features flexible sides that zip or tie open and shut, creating closed, solid sides or open, breathable, mesh sides.
• Heavy-duty dog crates are constructed from strong materials such as steel and aluminum for tough durability. Used most often for travel due to high crash-test ratings, heavy-duty dog crates can literally be a doggie lifesaver.²

What Size Dog Crate Do I Need?

So how do you know how big a dog crate should be? Dog crates come in all sizes for all types of breeds, and it can depend on what you’re using the crate for. Puppies require smaller crates than adult dogs, and some companies offer crates that “grow” with your puppy – by providing dividers you can add or remove to adjust the size of the area inside the crate.

If you’re house training, you don’t want the crate to be overly large, but if your pooch is already accustomed to hanging out in a crate, she might appreciate ample space. For travel, use a dog travel crate that’s big enough for your pooch but also fits in your car or on the plane according to the airline’s specifications.

How to Measure Your Dog for a Travel Crate

To determine how much room a dog should have in a crate, we consulted our veterinarian, Dr. Coates. She advised, “a crate should be several inches longer than a dog’s body length (minus their tail) to ensure comfort.” In order to figure that out, measure your dog from the tip of his nose to the base of his tail, along his side. The most convenient time to do this is when he’s already lying down stretched out. How he normally spreads out gives you a better idea of what size the crate should be.

Crate Training Your Dog

Crate training a puppy or dog should be a positive experience resulting in a positive outcome – you want your dog to love her crate. Not all dogs will, of course, but teaching your pooch the crate is rewarding is the first step. Train her early so she understands it’s her safe place, time away, and cozy den. Create a positive association with the crate using treats, toys, and familiar comforts. This gives your dog security, ownership, and helps build confidence.³⁴

Create a welcoming and calming environment inside the crate. This can look different for each dog, and the atmosphere you create can depend on the reason for using the crate in the first place. Even if you’re training your dog for travel, put the crate in a quiet, safe spot away from high-traffic areas to help them acclimate to their new personal space. You may or may not need to cover the top of the crate – wire crates do not feature solid sides or tops, so she doesn’t feel too exposed and vulnerable.

Dog Crate Size by Weight

Though the best way to determine the crate size your dog needs is by measuring your dog, we designed a handy dog crate size chart, broken down by the length of the crate and a dog’s weight group. From extra small to extra, extra large, dog crates are suitable for breeds like Pomeranians, Cocker Spaniels, Labradors, and Rottweilers. For example, a medium dog crate size is typically for medium-size breeds that fall between 20 and 40 pounds. A large dog crate size comfortably shelters medium- to large-size breeds that weigh about 40 to 60 pounds. And an XL dog crate is roughly 42 inches long to accommodate breeds between 60 and 80 pounds.

If you have a growing puppy and you’re not sure how large he’ll be or how much he’ll weigh as an adult, check out our dog size predictor. The calculations are based on the American Kennel Club’s database of adult dog weights and heights. Fill in your puppy’s current age, weight, and other details below. Keep in mind that your dog is an individual, and there are many factors that can impact her weight. Always consult your veterinarian for the best advice on whether your dog is at a healthy weight based on her individual characteristics.

Note: please don’t feed your dog more or less based on the results. For that advice, consult your veterinarian.

If you’re not sure if your particular breed is done growing as you’re evaluating the best dog crate to buy, we’ve created a series of growth charts to answer questions like: when do goldendoodles stop growing?, when do great danes stop growing?, when do golden retrievers stop growing?, when do chihuahuas stop growing?, and when do labradors stop growing?

With so many dog collars out there to choose from, we created a dog collar size chart for your convenience. We consulted our veterinarian, Dr. Jennifer Coates, to guide us through the data, which she reviewed and approved. Since a dog’s weight and actual size are highly individual, Dr. Coates strongly recommends using the two-finger approach as the ultimate method for accurate sizing. “Two fingers should fit under a dog’s collar to ensure a comfortable but snug fit,” she advises.

Different Types of Dog Collars

Just as all dogs are different, dog collars come in a wide variety of styles, lengths, and materials. Here’s a rundown of dog collars available to you, your best and worst options, and which type might suit your needs.

Recommended:

• Standard buckle or snap-on dog collar – When most people think of a dog collar, the simple, flat nylon collar is usually the first one that comes to mind. Made with different types of buckles, these collars fit most dogs and come in a large range of styles, widths, colors, and patterns. Other standard flat dog collars are made with materials such as leather, canvas, and polyester.
• Round collar – Round collars are another version of the standard collar. But instead of the collar being flat, the material is rounded.
• GPS collar – A GPS collar uses global positioning satellite technology to keep tabs on your pooch’s whereabouts. The collar is typically designed like the standard collar, except a GPS device is attached to the strap.¹

In some circumstances:

• Head collar – The head collar features multiple straps to fit around both the back of your dog’s head and muzzle. This type of collar is a training collar for dogs who pull or are leash reactive. Many dogs don’t like wearing a head collar, and it may not be suitable for all dogs.²³
• Martingale collar – A cross between a standard collar and choke collar, the Martingale collar offers safety while acting as a non-slip collar. Adjusted and used correctly, the collar tightens slightly around your dog’s neck, without choking, should your dog try to back out of the collar while on the leash. It’s also made for dogs with narrow heads who can easily slip out of a standard collar.⁴⁵
• Breakaway collar – A breakaway collar does just that: it breaks away if excessive force is put on the collar. This can be good or bad depending on the situation.⁶
• Slip collars and leads – A slip lead is typically a long, looped leash that functions as a handle, leash, and collar all-in-one. Not recommended for most, this type of collar or lead is usually used by animal rescues and shelters due to the ease of slipping it around a nervous dog’s neck.⁷

Not Recommended:

• Choke collar – A choke collar is usually made out of a metal chain, which tightens automatically when the collar is pulled, either by the dog, leash, owner, or an object it gets tangled on. Using a choke collar is never recommended since it can lead to serious injury and sometimes death.⁸⁹
• Shock or electric collar – This type of collar delivers an electric shock from a transmitter that is triggered when the dog exhibits a behavior the owner wants to correct. Made illegal in multiple countries as a device of abuse, the shock collar is commonly used with electric fencing. The electric collar is not recommended since it causes pain, can lead to injury and can make behavior worse.¹⁰¹¹
• Prong collar – A prong collar is also a choke collar, only it’s made with steel prongs that push into your dog’s neck when the collar is tightened. The prongs can cause short- and long-term injury.¹²¹³
• Spray collar – This type of dog collar sprays either air or citronella into your dog’s face to deter him from barking. Spray collars are not recommended as they often malfunction and can increase unwanted behavior.¹⁴

How to Choose the Right Collar

With all the different types of dog collars available, how do you know which one and what size to get your dog? The majority of dogs do well with standard dog collars, which come in a variety of sizes. However, small dogs and those with tracheal issues are better suited for a harness.¹⁵ Standard dog collar sizes range from extra, extra small to extra large, fitting breeds from Chihuahuas to Saint Bernards. Ultimately, as our veterinarian has stressed, using the two-finger rule is your best bet for the right fitting collar.

Alternatively, consider using a harness (you can consult our list to see the best escape proof dog harness) instead of, or as well as, a collar as your primary attachment for a leash (read our review of the Rabitgoo escape proof dog harness). Harnesses reduce the risk for injury to the neck and spine and also aid in leash training. For dogs who pull, a harness that clips in the front or front and back discourages the dog from pulling. Harnesses are often more effective for training your dog to walk nicely on a leash.¹⁶

We’ve created a series of dog collar buying guides with specific collars recommended by our veterinary advisors including our list of the best dog collars, guide to choosing the best cute dog collar, and list of the best collars for Poodles.

Dog Collar Size Chart

Our dog collar size chart can help you determine the best collar size for your dog based on neck circumference or weight. If you’re looking for a dog collar size chart in cm, it’s easy to convert the measurements below.  There are 2.5 centimeters in an inch, so simply multiply the measurements in inches from the chart by 2.5. Or, you can use this handy converter to convert inches to centimeters.

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Text Transcript of Dog Collar Size Chart

How to Measure for a Dog Collar

One easy way to determine what size collar your dog needs is to measure your dog’s neck. Fortunately, it’s pretty easy to do. Grab a flexible tape measure or piece of string to record his neck circumference. Gently place the measuring tape or string against your dog’s neck and comfortably wrap it around the thickest part of his neck. If you’re using string, mark the string and measure it taut against a ruler for an accurate reading. This number will give you a baseline to work with.

You can also check out our post on how tight a dog collar should be to determine the right tightness for your dog’s collar.

Dog Collar Size by Weight (with Calculator)

The best way to outfit your dog with a new collar is to measure his neck. Then, check your measurement against our handy chart. Take into consideration his weight and breed, and then try the recommended collar size on your dog. Adjust the strap using the two-finger rule to create the perfect fit for your pooch.

For example, a Labrador’s collar size will more than likely be a large. Neck circumference typically grows with a dog and usually, the more a dog weighs, the larger the neck. A medium dog collar size typically fits breeds such as Cocker Spaniels and Border Collies, whose neck circumference measures anywhere from 14 inches to 20 inches.

Also included in our dog collar size chart are recommendations for appropriate leash widths for various size dogs.

Wondering how big your puppy might get as he grows? Check out our dog adult weight calculator below. Keep in mind that there are several factors that can influence a dog’s weight, and because all dogs are individuals, your dog’s weight may not match the estimates for his breed. The best way to monitor your dog’s growth is with the help of your veterinarian, who can determine if your dog is at a healthy weight considering factors such as his health history, diet, and exercise.

The calculations for the weight calculator are based on the American Kennel Club’s database of adult dog weights and heights. Fill in your new puppy’s current age, weight, and other details below.

Note: please don’t feed your dog more or less based on the results. For that advice, consult your veterinarian.

From more than 16,000 dog daycares nationwide, we researched the best doggy daycares in America to find you the top two choices in each state. ³ We combed through hundreds of daycare websites and ranked the companies based on what they have to offer, customers’ reviews, mission statements, and whether they had something unique or different from the rest.

Thinking about adding a four-legged friend to your family? Check out our lists of the best dog breeders in America and the best animal shelters in America to find your new best friend.

The Top Dog Daycares in America

Most dog daycares feature indoor and outdoor facilities to compensate for the local weather, but some daycares stand out among the others for what’s offered in those spaces. Many of the companies also provide other services, and we took that into consideration, too.

NOTE: Use the links below to jump to your state.

Alabama

Top Doggy Daycare: Dog Days of Birmingham
Birmingham, AL

The dogs who participate in the Dog Days of Birmingham’s daycare service enjoy a regular routine of human play, dog play, and down time. The daycare follows a schedule, so the dogs know what to expect when they return to the facility. Dogs are placed in supervised play groups based on compatible temperaments. Dog Days also offers grooming, boarding, and training, and features a retail store where you can treat your pup to a new toy.

Another Great Option: Wags ‘N Whiskers
Homewood, AL

Camp Wags daycare prides itself on a low counselor-to-pet ratio so your pooch is carefully watched during playtime. Dogs are matched by personality before being placed in play groups. Camp Wags also features events such as a Santa Paws Party and July 4^th Bark-a-que. For the pups who need a lift to and from the camp, Wags ‘N Whiskers offers the Wags Express, a dog taxi service that’s available for those who live within a 5-mile radius.

Alaska

Top Doggy Daycare: Barking Lot Doggie Daycare
Anchorage, AK

Barking Lot Doggie Daycare offers a large indoor and outdoor facility for your dog to exercise and play. Dogs are grouped by size – small, medium, and large – and have their own separate play area. The staff monitors the play groups at all times. Barking Lot also offers boarding and discount rates for multiple-dog households.

Another Great Option: Doggie Dog World
Anchorage, AK

New arrivals at Doggie Dog World enjoy a few hours of play time to determine the appropriate play group they belong in. Doggie daycare consists of both indoor and outdoor play spaces to accommodate for all needs. Doggie Dog World also offers boarding and grooming services.

Arizona

Top Doggy Daycare: Camp Bow Wow
Phoenix, AZ

At Camp Bow Wow your dog plays with other dogs and humans for a mix of entertaining interaction. Counselors are certified and trained in dog behavior, and dogs are temperament-tested to ensure safety for all. Camp Bow Wow even features live web cams so you can keep tabs on your playing pooch. They offer boarding and grooming as well.

Another Great Option: Dogtopia
Chandler, AZ

Dogtopia focuses on socialization skills, exercise, and proper mental stimulation with their furry customers. There are three large play areas for grouping dogs based on their size, temperament, and how they like to play. Live webcams are available to watch your dog, and the folks supervising have been trained in dog behavior. They also offer boarding and grooming.

Arkansas

Top Doggy Daycare: Hounds Lounge Pet Resort and Spa
Little River, AK

Hounds Lounge Pet Resort and Spa features an indoor and outdoor play area for your dog to socialize with other dogs. The first play session is on-the-house as they temperament-test your pooch with the other furries to see if she’s a good fit. The daycare features a private area should your dog not do well socializing. Hounds Lounge also offers boarding, grooming, and a do-it-yourself dog wash area.

Another Great Option: Wags and Whiskers
Little Rock, AK

Recently expanded, Wags and Whiskers features a 30,000 square-foot play area for your dog to romp around with other dogs. The play area has play equipment, tunnels, tree houses, and more to entertain your pooch. The daycare also offers cuddles and nature walks. Wags and Whiskers has boarding, grooming, birthday parties, and even a taxi service available to transport your dog to and from daycare.

California

Top Doggy Daycare: Dogtopia
Rocklin, CA

Dogtopia offers climate-controlled play areas where you can watch your pooch via a free web cam. Dogs are separated by size and temperament, and new canine customers are introduced through a meet-and-greet. Supervisors are trained on dog behavior, and you receive canine report cards on how your dog is doing. Dogtopia also offers boarding and grooming.

Another Great Option: Oh Hello Dog
Los Angeles, CA

At Oh Hello Dog your pooch is evaluated for temperament before being placed in a play group. Groups are separated into small and large dogs and are supervised by staff around the clock. Oh Hello Dog also offers a private suite daycare option, long-term boarding, and grooming. Treat your pooch to the raw, dehydrated, or freeze-dried meals that are an optional add-on.

Colorado

Top Doggy Daycare: Happy Hounds Dog Care Center
Longmont, CO

Happy Hounds has multiple dog play groups divided by size, temperament, energy level, and age. New canine customers are evaluated for compatibility. Every day features a break time, and the play areas have spots where dogs can seek out peace and quiet away from the group. Happy Hounds also offers boarding and grooming.

Another Great Option: Happy Tails Dog Ranch
Berthoud, CO

Happy Tails Dog Ranch has supervised outdoor play areas in a country setting. Play yards are grouped by size and temperament, and the daycare schedule includes down time so the dogs can rest. The staff at Happy Tails is trained in CPR, first aid, and dog behavior. They also offer dog training, boarding, and grooming.

Connecticut

Top Doggy Daycare: Cherry Brook Kennels
Canton, CT

Cherry Brook Kennels offers dog daycare play groups, as well as private indoor and outdoor areas for dogs to rest. Kuranda beds, bedding, and water are provided in each indoor room. The large play yards are separated so different groups can be playing at the same time. Dogs are grouped based on size and temperament. Cherry Brook Kennels also features boarding and grooming services.

Another Great Option: Wags Doggie Daycamp and Boarding
Danbury, CT

Wags Doggie Daycamp and Boarding gives your dog the opportunity to romp around with other dogs the same size and temperament. Daycare is supervised at all times with temperature-controlled play areas, large outdoor yards with fencing, and interactive toys. Wags Doggie Daycamp also features boarding, grooming, training, and even boarding for cats.

Delaware

Top Doggy Daycare: Jungle Jim’s Total Pet Care
Rehoboth Beach, DE

Jungle Jim’s Total Pet Care is an all-in-one pet stop, offering multiple services such as home pet sitting, vacation packages, pet taxi, yard cleanup, beach walks, and more. The daycare, dubbed the Taj Ma Howl 2, is in a new facility on the beach. It features play areas, toys, beds, and fun at the beach.

Another Great Option: Playtime Doggie Daycare and Pet Salon
Newark, DE

Playtime Doggie Daycare and Pet Salon offers a large play yard for doggie daycare. Those who don’t do well with other dogs have the option of hanging out in a large kennel for some chill time. This daycare package features frequent outdoor trips with the staff for exercise and play time. Playtime Doggie Daycare also offers grooming and training.

Florida

Top Doggy Daycare: Universal Dog Care Orlando, Dog Care and Dog Boarding
Orlando, FL

Open 24 hours a day, Universal Dog Care Orlando offers a family-style dog sitting and boarding service – your dog hangs out in their home. Dogs have about an acre of land to walk around and explore, along with a climate-controlled indoor play area to romp around with other dogs. For dogs who don’t do well socializing, Universal Dog Care offers individualized play time. You’ll also receive pictures and videos of how your dog is doing.

Another Great Option: Pawville Citrus
Homosassa, FL

Pawville Citrus offers multiple services, including doggie daycare, boarding, grooming, training, and boarding for cats. The facility also features a boutique where you can find a myriad of pet supplies. The daycare has both indoor and outdoor play areas that are under constant supervision by the staff. Check out the playroom web cam and watch your pooch play.

Georgia

Top Doggy Daycare: Best Little Dog House in Georgia
Smyrna, GA

Best Little Dog House in Georgia has a 5,000-square-foot, partly covered outdoor play area for dogs who like to play in groups. There’s also an indoor facility for those days the weather doesn’t cooperate. For the dogs who aren’t keen on socializing with other dogs, Best Little Dog House offers more companionship with the staff. Dog play groups are kept small and are rotated so dogs get the rest they need in between playing. Best Little Dog House also offers boarding.

Another Great Option: Spot For Dogs
Atlanta, GA

Spot For Dogs has two locations – Atlanta and Decatur – and is a small mom-and-pop business. They offer daycare, boarding, and grooming services. Featuring an old-fashioned warehouse, the facility hosts three large play areas. There’s also an outdoor play yard for running, lounging, and socializing. Play groups are kept small and are always supervised.

Hawaii

Top Doggy Daycare: Kama’aina K9 Adventures
Waipahu, HI

Unlike most doggie daycares, Kama’aina Adventures is a theme park for dogs, with six different adventure parks to choose from. This large daycare features a jungle park with pools to splash around in, small city with dog homes and condos, play area for the tiniest of dogs, puppy park, and agility park with a number of active challenges. There’s also a petting zoo that features pygmy goats, miniature horses, and chickens.

Another Great Option: Furever Friends Play and Stay
Honolulu, HI

Furever Friends Play and Stay offers daycare, boarding, grooming, and water play. New canine customers go through an evaluation process to determine whether they’re a good fit for group play. You have the option of placing your dog in a private kennel or in one of the large rooms with other dogs.

Idaho

Top Doggy Daycare: Escape the Crate
Joplin, ID

Escape the Crate has staff trained in dog behavior and play etiquette, so your pooch has a positive experience while at daycare. New groups are selected every day, but daycare runs on a schedule, which helps your pooch know what to expect on a daily basis. The day consists of mental and physical exercise, and swimming and downtime are also included. Escape the Crate offers other services such as puppy preschool, boarding, grooming, and training.

Another Great Option: Pocatello Pet Lodge
Pocatello, ID

Pocatello Pet Lodge has two locations next door to each other to separate smaller and older dogs from the younger, more exuberant dogs. Both feature climate-controlled indoor play areas, as well as fenced-in outdoor areas with a playground and toys. Dogs have access to spots where they can chill out and remove themselves from the rest of the group. Pocatello Pet Lodge also offers boarding and grooming.

Illinois

Top Doggy Daycare: Kennelwood Pet Resorts
Edwardsville, IL

With three locations in Illinois and three locations in Missouri, Kennelwood Pet Resorts offers boarding, grooming, daycare, and training. The resort even has pet transportation to and from the facilities. The daycare consists of group play; dogs are grouped by age, size, and temperament. But they don’t just play – the resort offers two packages: Play ‘N Train and Bath ‘N Play. Also available at the daycare are free monthly puppy play dates and parties for special occasions (if puppy play dates are of interest and you have a new pup at home you may find our puppy checklist helpful).

Another Great Option: Bark Avenue Daycamp
Bartlett, IL

Bark Avenue Daycamp features a 13,000-square-foot facility where dogs of all breeds are welcome to play for the day. The facility and staff also accommodate dogs with special needs. Open year-round, the daycare is supervised by trained staff at all times. Bark Avenue offers other services such as training, boarding, and grooming.

Indiana

Top Doggy Daycare: Paws and Play Dog Resort and Training Center
Fishers, IN

Paws and Play Dog Resort provides 10,000 square feet of play area for dogs to romp around and have fun. Beyond the typical playgroup option, the resort offers a variety of daycare packages to accommodate different canine personalities. Your dog could enjoy a quiet day with a calming environment, simple activity with toys and walks, rigorous exercise playing with other dogs, or mental stimulation with brain games. Rest periods are implemented in order for dogs to properly recuperate from intense play. Paws and Play also offers boarding, training, and grooming.

Another Great Option: Indy Hound
Indianapolis, IN

Indy Hound features a daycare service with indoor and outdoor facilities. Dog are evaluated for temperament to ensure they’ll get along in group play. Full- and half-day daycare is available, as is a multiple-dog (from the same home) discount. Other services offered through Indy Hound include boarding and grooming.

Iowa

Top Doggy Daycare: Dogwoods Lodge
Grimes, IA

Dogwoods Lodge offers you and your canine the option of daycare, boarding, grooming, and training. Dogs have access to four large indoor and outdoor play areas that feature toys and play equipment. Daycare consists of rotating small groups of dogs through play and rest. The number of dogs in a group is typically about five to eight at a time. A variety of activities, such as fetch, tug, agility, and obedience, are also rotated throughout the day to keep your pooch entertained. Watch your pup via live webcams to see when he’s playing.

Another Great Option: Lucky Pawz Dog Daycare and Boarding
North Liberty, IA

Lucky Pawz Dog Daycare and Boarding groups dogs by size, energy level, and temperament. Play groups are no more than 15 dogs at one time. Daycare dogs have access to a climate-controlled indoor play area, as well as an outdoor yard. Should your pup need time away from the group, she can take a snooze in one of the kennels. Lucky Pawz also offers boarding.

Kansas

Top Doggy Daycare: On the Ball
Prairie Village, KS

On the Ball offers you and your pup the option of daycare, boarding, and grooming. Enroll your pooch in either half- or full-day daycare where your dog plays with other dogs and watch via the webcam. Dog play groups don’t exceed 15 dogs at one time and feature one staff member to supervise the lot. Play areas are insulated to help reduce noise.

Another Great Option: Woof’s Play and Stay
Manhattan, KS

With eight locations in Kansas and two in Missouri, Woof’s Play and Stay offers a variety of services for you and your dog. Doggie daycare consists of indoor and outdoor play with other dogs of the same size, age, and temperament. The outdoor area is covered in turf and surrounded by secure fencing. There’s play equipment and even two small, shallow, in-ground pools for keeping cool in the summer. Watch your pup have fun via live webcams. Woof’s Play and Stay also offers boarding, grooming, and training.

Kentucky

Top Doggy Daycare: Allie’s Walkabout
Erlanger, KY

Allie’s Walkabout sits on four and a half acres and features an 8,000-square-foot indoor facility with four play areas, as well as four outdoor play yards. The play areas have toys and equipment for enrichment. While most of the day consists of playing, dogs also get time to nap in the afternoon for a good rest. The staff is trained in dog behavior. Allie’s also offers boarding, grooming, training, and pet photography.

Another Great Option: Wildcat Country Dog Retreat
Versailles, KY

Wildcat Country Dog Retreat is in a country setting on top of 24 acres and offers services such as daycare and boarding. Daycare features play, breaks, snacks, individual play time or walks, and progress reports with picture updates. The indoor facility is climate controlled and regularly cleaned. Choose from a variety of different packages to customize your dog’s stay.

Louisiana

Top Doggy Daycare: Pawlins
Jefferson, LA

Pawlins features services such as daycare, boarding, and grooming. The facility is housed right next door to a full-service veterinarian. With 18,000 square feet, daycare consists of both indoor and outdoor play areas, including play equipment and a water park. Smaller pups have their own space to romp and play. Downtime is included for the dogs to recuperate and rest, complete with soothing music and essential oils. Watch your pooch via webcam.

Another Great Option: Petite Paws Pet Hotel
Dubach, LA

Petite Paws Pet Hotel provides doggie daycare and boarding, as well as dog training and a taxi service. The daycare offers indoor and outdoor time, featuring play groups and individual walks. Rest time is scheduled along with physical and mental activities to help your dog enjoy the day through a regular routine.

Maine

Top Doggy Daycare: Mutty Paws Academy
Scarborough, ME

Mutty Paws Academy offers services such as daycare, boarding, grooming, and training. The daycare center features small groups of dogs taking part in physical and mental activities, with periodic rest times included. Groups, referred to as classes, focus on basic obedience. More advanced classes customize activities based on your dog’s needs. These activities may include leash training, agility, individual play time, and brain games.

Another Great Option: Brown Dog Inn
Freeport, ME

Brown Dog Inn sits on 14 acres and offers boarding and daycare, as well as grooming. Dogs that stay at the inn are spoiled with massages, walks, play time, and cuddles. The outdoor, fenced-in play area has a waterfall with an in-ground pool. Dog-friendly turf covers much of the ground and your dog has the opportunity to play on a variety of agility equipment.

Maryland

Top Doggy Daycare: Best Friends Fur Ever
Joppa, MD

Best Friends Fur Ever has services such as training, grooming, boarding, and daycare. A 10-year winner of the Best of Harford County, Best Friends has two locations to choose from. The staff is trained, and play groups are supervised at all times. Your dog plays with others of the same size, age, and temperament in both climate-controlled indoor and fenced-in outdoor spaces. For older and special needs dogs, there’s a separate, more calming area for them to chill out in. Watch your pup have fun via the webcams.

Another Great Option: Dogwood Acres
Davidsonville, MD

Dogwood Acres features two locations and offers services such as boarding, grooming, and daycare. Staff is trained in animal behavior, obedience, first aid, and CPR. Daycare consists of both indoor and outdoor play. Your dog can splash around in a pool with fountains, partake in puzzle games, exercise on agility equipment, and romp around with other dogs in group play. Daycare runs on a schedule, and nap time is included.

Massachusetts

Top Doggy Daycare: The Dog Retreat and Spa
Waltham, MA

The Dog Retreat and Spa provides services such as daycare, boarding, training, physical rehab, or grooming. The doggie daycare is indoor and outdoor. Whether your dog likes to run and play or snuggle up on the couch, there’s room for him. Play groups are created with dogs of the same temperament and energy level. The Dog Retreat also offers Day Stay – where your dog can stay in a private area should he not get along with other dogs or just needs to rest.

Another Great Option: Red Dog Pet Resort and Spa
Boston, MA

Red Dog Pet Resort and Spa offers boarding, daycare, day stay, grooming, aquatics, and hydro fitness, and a taxi service. The daycare features an enclosed outdoor play space, available all year long, as well as an indoor play area. Play groups are created with dogs of the same size and temperament and are continually supervised by trained staff. Should your dog not do well in play groups, Red Dog also offers the option of private day stays. This includes a comfortable place to hang out and a few walks during the day.

Michigan

Top Doggy Daycare: Bark-A-Bout Pet Activity Center and Resort
Shelby Township, MI

Bark-A-Bout Pet Activity Center and Resort features services such as dog boarding, daycare, aquatics, grooming, and training. The center has a 30,000-square-foot indoor and outdoor area that includes a pool, a living area complete with couches for doggie lounging, fenced-in play areas with fun equipment, and other amenities. Live webcams are also available to watch your pooch in action.

Another Great Option: Canine to Five
Ferndale, MI

Canine to Five has three locations – Detroit, Ferndale, and a new facility in Commerce Township. Offering services such as boarding, daycare, and grooming, Canine to Five features large indoor and outdoor play areas with a staff trained in animal behavior, first aid, and CPR. Choose from multiple daycare packages to customize your dog’s personal needs. They offer a puppy program, group for tiny dogs, senior lounge, private play, and group play.

Minnesota

Top Doggy Daycare: Wagging Tails Pet Resort
Eagan, MN

Wagging Tails Pet Resort offers dog boarding, daycare, grooming, and training. Doggie daycare features 22,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor play space. Dogs are grouped by energy level and temperament and are supervised by the staff. There are multiple packages to choose from, as well as additional extras such as nature walks, private time, and food or treats. Watch your pooch play via the web cams.

Another Great Option: Woof Central
Richfield, MN

Woof Central has more than 5,000 square feet of indoor space that’s climate-controlled with a professional-grade air exchange system. But there’s also an outdoor play area for the dogs to roam around in fresh air. Dogs are evaluated before entering play groups, so they’re matched with other dogs of the same size, age, energy level, and temperament. Staff supervises play groups, which are divided into three play spaces. Woof Central also offers boarding, grooming, and training.

Mississippi

Top Doggy Daycare: Deltadog Oxford
Oxford, MS

Family owned and operated, Deltadog Oxford features services such as dog boarding, grooming, and daycare. The company focuses on transparency, comfort, safety, professionalism, and trust. Dogs have access to a large indoor play area, as well as turf-covered, fenced-in outdoor play spaces that are divided for multiple groups to play separately but simultaneously. Watch your pup play with toys or on play equipment via the webcams so you know what’s happening.

Another Great Option: Camp Bow Wow
Ridgeland, MS

Camp Bow Wow provides daycare, boarding, and grooming services. The staff is trained and certified in dog behavior, first aid, and CPR. The doggie daycare hosts large indoor and outdoor play spaces that are safe and secure. While dogs have access to the areas to play all day long, they’re also able to take a nap in one of the cabins if they desire. Play groups are created with dogs of the same size, energy level, and temperament.

Missouri

Top Doggy Daycare: Arch City Dog Boarding
St. Louis, MO

Arch City Dog Boarding has both boarding and daycare, where dogs have access to three indoor and four outdoor play areas, equaling a total of about 4,000 square feet. Dogs are grouped by age, size, energy level, and temperament, and groups are kept to about a dozen dogs each. Staff is trained in first aid and CPR, as well as dog behavior. The day consists of playing with other dogs, snuggles and cuddles with the humans, time to rest, and even brain puzzle games.

Another Great Option: Bow Wow Pet Resort
Republic, MO

Bow Wow Pet Resort offers your pooch boarding, grooming, and daycare options. Voted the best two years running, Bow Wow sits on one acre of land, half of which is fenced in for the dogs to run around. The indoor play area is climate controlled, which the pups have access to as well. Dogs are supervised at all times. Nap time is included.

Montana

Top Doggy Daycare: Pawsitively Perfect
Kalispell, MT

Pawsitively Perfect has three play yards with roughly 14,500 square feet for each one. It offers an agility play area with weave poles, tires, tunnels, and a teeter-totter. The facility also has a ball-throwing yard for fetch and a puzzle yard with brain games. Staff supervises at all times and is trained in dog behavior and first aid. Pawsitively Perfect also features boarding, grooming, and training services.

Another Great Option: Alpine Canine
Missoula, MT

Situated on 72 acres of ranch land, Alpine Canine is unlike most doggie daycares and boarding facilities. The entire area is fenced in and consists of four miles of hiking trails with almost a mile of free-flowing water. There’s also a 10,000-square-foot area for indoor and outdoor play space that’s climate-controlled and separated into smaller areas. This allows Alpine Canine to group dogs by age, size, energy level, and temperament. Alpine Canine also offers a pick-up service to take your dog to daycare. In addition, your dog can join a daily hiking adventure, which consists of a pick-up and drop-off shuttle for a half-day of off-leash exploration on trails.

Nebraska

Top Doggy Daycare: Dogtopia of Omaha-Papillion
La Vista, NE

Dogtopia of Omaha features climate-controlled, indoor play areas with rubber flooring, as well as a large outdoor play space. Dog play groups are supervised all the time by a trained staff, which you can watch via live webcams. Daycare includes rest time so your pup recuperates from all the playing. Receive a pup report card at the end of your dog’s stay so you know how she did. Dogtopia also offers boarding, grooming, and training.

Another Great Option: Bark Avenue
Omaha, NE

Bark Avenue features services such as dog daycare, grooming, and boarding. Small and large dogs are separated into their own play areas. Play groups are limited to about 15 to 17 dogs and are grouped by size and temperament. There’s also a fenced-in outdoor area for the pups to play together.

Nevada

Top Doggy Daycare: Henderson Pet Resort
Henderson, NV

Henderson Pet Resort provides a myriad of services, such as dog and cat boarding, dog training, daycare, grooming, and even a chauffeur service. Doggie daycare includes both large and small play groups with one-on-one play time as well. The play yards are climate-controlled and covered with antimicrobial K9 grass. Dog play groups are rotated through a variety of activities and are monitored by trained staff. Henderson Pet Resort also offers day stay for dogs who don’t do well in group settings. Watch your pup play via the webcams.

Another Great Option: Tails Pet Resort
Las Vegas, NV

Tails Pet Resort features indoor and outdoor facilities. Both are separated into smaller areas for small groups of dogs to play. The play groups are supervised at all times by trained staff, and you can watch your pup via webcams. The outdoor play spaces have play equipment and are covered in artificial turf. Dogs are grouped by size and temperament.

New Hampshire

Top Doggy Daycare: Take Five Dog Care
Lee, NH

Take Five Dog Care has an acre of outdoor play space that’s divided into six yards to group dogs appropriately. There’s also an indoor play area spanning 3,000 square feet. Winning best-of awards four years running, Take Five also provides boarding and grooming services.

Another Great Option: American K9 Country
Amherst, NH

American K9 Country is the largest pet care facility in the northeast, with an area of 27,000 square feet. Doggie daycare encompasses both indoor and outdoor settings, which your dog is free to come and go between. The large play areas feature artificial turf and soft pea stone. The indoor facility is climate controlled and play areas are equipped with toys, tunnels, pools, and boulders. Dogs are supervised by trained staff, and you can watch your pup via webcams.

New Jersey

Top Doggy Daycare: Golden Paws Pet Resort and Spa
Robbinsville Township, NJ

Golden Paws Pet Resort and Spa sports a state-of-the-art pet care resort with services such as boarding for dogs and cats, doggie daycare, training, and grooming. Doggie daycare features play groups with plenty of breaks, physical and mental stimulation, and socializing. Dogs are grouped by energy level, age, and temperament. There’s also a canine enrichment program where your pooch can participate in agility, puzzles, games, training, and more.

Another Great Option: Fetch Family Pet Resort
Sewell, NJ

Fetch Family Pet Resort features climate-controlled indoor play areas and four fenced-in outdoor play spaces where dogs can run, play, and socialize. Play groups are supervised by trained staff at all times, and dogs are grouped by size, age, and energy level. Downtime is also scheduled so pups recuperate. Fetch Family also offers other services such as boarding for both cats and dogs, and dog grooming.

New Mexico

Top Doggy Daycare: Zoomies Dog Daycare and Resort
Santa Fe, NM

Zoomies Dog Daycare and Resort offers boarding and grooming, as well as daycare. With indoor and outdoor facilities, Zoomies structures your dog’s day with play, rest, food, and more play. There are dog beds and cots for chilling out on and play equipment to have fun with.

Another Great Option: 10,000 Wags Pet Resort
El Prado, NM

10,000 Wags Pet Resort provides boarding, grooming, and daycare options for you and your dog. Choose from half- or full-day daycare where your dog can play in a group or hang out away from other dogs. If your dog stays for the entire day, choose from three different activity add-ons, such as a walk, fetch, or buddy time.

New York

Top Doggy Daycare: Dog’s Retreat
Latham, NY

Dog’s Retreat has services such as daycare, boarding, and grooming. Dogs play all day in the indoor and outdoor facilities. The outdoor area has artificial turf where the dogs play together. Watch your pup via the live webcams at any time.

Another Great Option: Bed and Biscuit Country Club for Dogs and Cats
Ithaca, NY

Featuring a fenced-in, 1-acre of play yards, as well as a large, covered yard for inclement weather, Bed and Biscuit Country Club for Dogs and Cats offers services such as boarding for both dogs and cats, dog grooming, daycare, and even a pet taxi option. Daycare dogs have access to indoor and outdoor play areas. The indoor facility is climate controlled and roughly 1,500 square feet. Play groups are kept to about six to eight pups, but never have more than a dozen at a time. The day rotates around play sessions and downtime.

North Carolina

Top Doggy Daycare: Pampered Pets Inn
Mooresville, NC

Close to woods and wetlands, Pampered Pets Inn sits on just over two acres. With services such as dog and cat boarding, doggie daycare, grooming, and training, you and your dog have access to an award-winning pet care center. The facility has a 25,000-square-foot play yard that’s separated into five smaller play spaces. Doggie daycare play groups are based mostly on temperament, but also in consideration of age, size, and energy level. Play groups are kept small and supervised at all times.

Another Great Option: Denver Canine Club
Denver, NC

Denver Canine Club features a doggie daycare with three indoor and six outdoor play yards. Your pup gets to enjoy a 15-foot by 30-foot in-ground pool as well. Play groups are based on temperament, as well as size and age. The outdoor play spaces feature one and a half acres of artificial grass, while the climate-controlled indoor facility is about 13,000 square feet and is covered in rubber flooring. Denver Canine Club offers other services such as boarding, training, and grooming.

North Dakota

Top Doggy Daycare: Home Away From Home
Fargo, ND

Home Away From Home offers boarding and grooming, on top of daycare. With two indoor and outdoor play areas, your dog has plenty of space to stretch her legs. Dogs are grouped together based on temperament, size, age, and energy level, and supervised at all times. Home Away From Home provides toys and play equipment for your pup to keep entertained.

Another Great Option: Petopia
Grand Forks, ND

Petopia provides pet care services for both dogs and cats. One of the few to do so, Petopia features cat daycare as well as doggie daycare. Likewise, cats and dogs are welcome for boarding. Grooming is also available for dogs. Place your pup in hourly, half-day, or full-day daycare.

Ohio

Top Doggy Daycare: Dogtropolis Doggy Daycare
South Euclid, OH

Dogtropolis Doggy Daycare offers you and your dog the option of half- and full-day daycare, as well as long-term boarding. Daycare features both indoor and outdoor play spaces, equating to about 8,000 square feet of running area. New dogs are screened before joining the existing group of dogs to be sure they are compatible.

Another Great Option: Play All Day
Westerville, OH

Play All Day lives up to its name and features a dog daycare where your dog can play all day. Offering a climate-controlled indoor play and rest area and an acre of fenced-in outdoor space, Play All Day provides your dog with plenty of fresh air, room to move, and time to chill. Boarding and grooming services are also offered.

Oklahoma

Top Doggy Daycare: Holidog Inn Room and Groom
Shawnee, OK

Holidog Inn offers doggie daycare, day boarding, long-term boarding, and grooming. Dogs are grouped by age and size, usually separated into puppies, adults, and seniors. Daycare consists of lots of group playing, as well as some obedience training, and the play area features play equipment to keep the pups busy. However, downtime is scheduled for all dogs. For those who don’t do well in a group setting, Holidog offers day boarding – where your dog gets to hang out in boarding and receive multiple walks and personal attention from the staff.

Another Great Option: Ninth Street Barking Lot
Oklahoma City, OK

Ninth Street Barking Lot has a large outdoor play area with play equipment, as well as a climate-controlled indoor facility for when the weather is rough. Daycare is run on a schedule with toys, snacks, walks, and naps timed to keep the day moving smoothly. Dogs are grouped by age, size, personality, and temperament. Barking Lot also offers the Bark Bus – have your dog driven to and from daycare and grooming.

Oregon

Top Doggy Daycare: Reynolds Dog Resort and Training Center
Tualatin, OR

Reynolds Dog Resort and Training Center hosts three locations and offers services such as grooming, boarding, daycare, and training. The outdoor play yard is fenced in and secured, and equipped with multiple toys, including ropes and tunnels. Mostly gathering in supervised play groups, dogs in daycare also have the option of other activities, such as scent work, cuddles, puzzles, and even story time. Dogs are grouped by age, size, and temperament.

Another Great Option: Wag Bend Play and Stay
Bend, OR

Wag Bend Play and Stay provides access to indoor and outdoor play spaces for dogs to play during daycare hours. Small and large dogs are separated, but both groups can take advantage of playing inside or out. Wag Bend also offers boarding and features WB Ranch, a dog park and training center for you and your dog to play, exercise, or train together.

Pennsylvania

Top Doggy Daycare: Pittsburgh Pet Concierge
Pittsburgh, PA

Pittsburgh Pet Concierge is an award-winning, family-owned pet care business that specializes in dog daycare, dog and cat boarding, and dog grooming. The dog daycare is tailored to your dog’s particular needs – whether she’s super social, shy, needs to chill, or has special needs. All services take place at the owner’s personal residence.

Another Great Option: Playtime Pet Resort
Prussia, PA

Playtime Pet Resort sits on two and a half acres and offers dog care services such as daycare, boarding, and grooming. With more than 12,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor play yards, dogs are grouped by age, size, play level, and temperament. Play groups are supervised at all times, and there is video surveillance of the facility. Playtime Pet Resort also features a water park with a waterfall, geyser, and tunnel.

Rhode Island

Top Doggy Daycare: Lucky Dog Resort
Middletown, RI

Lucky Dog Resort is an award-winning dog care business that offers services such as daycare, boarding, training, grooming, day stay, and wedding valet. Dog daycare, otherwise known as The Lucky Dog Social Club, groups dogs by play level and temperament, and features a staff trained in first aid and CPR. Dog play groups are supervised at all times.

Another Great Option: Bow Chika Wow Town
Warwick, RI

Bow Chika Wow Town provides a range of pet care services, such as daycare, boarding, day stay, grooming, do-it-yourself wash stations, a shuttle, an indoor dog park, and services to help you include your dog in your wedding. Though daycare is focused on group play, day stay allows dogs who don’t enjoy groups to stay for the day in a private room. All dogs receive playtime, walks, and attention from the staff. Bow Chika Wow Town also features Rhode Island’s only indoor dog park where you and your dog can go play together.

South Carolina

Top Doggy Daycare: Bark Pet Resort
Murrells Inlet, SC

Bark Pet Resort encompasses about 8,000 square feet, with both indoor and outdoor facilities that feature a water area and play equipment. Bark Pet Resort has boarding, daycare, and grooming services, with a staff that is trained in first aid and CPR. Doggie daycare consists of a large indoor area, 1,500 square feet of fenced-in open space, and 2,200 square feet of open grass and trees. Activities include play equipment, water works, and the natural outdoors.

Another Great Option: K9 Cabana Dog Resort and Training Center
Myrtle Beach, SC

K9 Cabana Dog Resort and Training Center provides dog boarding, dog daycare, training, and grooming. Featuring more than 7,500 square feet of play space, doggie daycare gives your dog access to indoor and outdoor areas to romp around. Dogs are grouped by size and have the option of playing in the splash park. Staff is on-site around the clock so that dogs are supervised at all times.

South Dakota

Top Doggy Daycare: Paws Pet Resort
Sioux Falls, SD

Paws Pet Resort offers day stays and overnight stays for both dogs and cats. The facility features a climate- and air-quality-controlled indoor playroom that’s roughly 1,400 square feet. Your pup also has access to an in-ground, bone-shaped pool for splashing around. Safety is the number one priority at Paws Pet Resort and the facility is structured to reflect that. PetCams are in every room, which gives you the opportunity to see and talk to your dog.

Another Great Option: Smoken Dakota Kennels
Sioux Falls, SD

Offering two locations, Smoken Dakota Kennels has daycare, boarding, training, and grooming. Each location features different types of facilities, and the Harrisburg location sports a water park for your dog and a Tiki bar for you. The Harrisburg facility sits on 12 acres, housing a 15,000-square-foot building that’s climate-controlled and separated into two large play areas. The Sioux Falls location also has climate-controlled indoor play areas where dogs play in groups.

Tennessee

Top Doggy Daycare: Greymont Kennels
Smyrna, TN

Situated on 15 acres, Greymont Kennels provides services such as dog and cat boarding, dog daycare, and dog grooming. It also features a van service for pickup and drop-off from the facility. Daycare encompasses play areas inside and outside, with a 24-hour staff. Choose from other services to add to your dog’s daycare experience, such as individual playtime, cuddles, story time, walks, and brain games. Greymont Kennels also offers a variety of training classes.

Another Great Option: Smoky Dog Lodge
Sevierville, TN

Smoky Dog Lodge offers a doggie daycare with indoor and outdoor play spaces, complete with toys and play equipment. Dogs play in groups all day but are separated by size, age, energy level, and temperament. Smoky Dog Lodge provides other services such as boarding, grooming, training, enrichment classes, and a pet shuttle bus.

Texas

Top Doggy Daycare: Canine Republic
Plano, TX

Winning the best of Plano four years running, Canine Republic offers 8,000 square feet of fenced-in outdoor yard space. There are also two large, climate-controlled indoor play areas that feature sound insulation, a fire suppression system, and a fresh air exchange system. The staff is trained in first aid and CPR, and dog play groups are always supervised. Dogs are grouped by size, energy level, and temperament. Aside from daycare, Canine Republic provides boarding, grooming, and training.

Another Great Option: Hill Country Pet Ranch
Boerne, TX

Hill Country Pet Ranch sits on 12 acres and provides multiple play yards where your dog can run, play, and explore nature trails. Dogs are grouped by size and energy level, but if your pooch isn’t feeling all that social, Hill Country offers individual playtime with the staff. Other services include dog and cat boarding, dog grooming, and dog training.

Utah

Top Doggy Daycare: Desert Dog Daycare
Salt Lake City, UT

Desert Dog Daycare features 9,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor play spaces for your dog to run around. The trained staff supervises the dog play groups, but you also have access to view your pooch outdoors via the webcams. Aside from daycare, Desert Dog also provides boarding and grooming.

Another Great Option: Ruffledale Pet Resort and Paw Spa
Layton, UT

Ruffledale Pet Resort and Paw Spa offers dog and cat boarding, dog daycare, and grooming. Featuring both an indoor and outdoor play space, dogs have plenty of room to run. They also have access to toys and jungle gyms. The daycare facility is covered in dog-friendly artificial turf, making it easier to clean and keep your dog safe.

Vermont

Top Doggy Daycare: Oh My Dog
Burlington, VT

Oh My Dog features services such as doggie daycare, boarding, grooming, and dog training, with additional options to choose from. The facility hosts both indoor and outdoor play spaces. The outdoor play area is covered with K9 Grass – dog-friendly artificial turf, and features solid play and agility equipment for your pup to pounce around on. The indoor play space is covered in rubber and also features solid play equipment. Naptime is included in the daycare routine.

Another Great Option: Comfort Hill Kennel
Vergennes, VT

Comfort Hill Kennel provides services such as daycare, dog and cat boarding, grooming, hydrotherapy, and training. The kennel features a 72,000-square-foot outdoor play space and a 4,500-square-foot indoor training area. Dogs are grouped by size and energy level and have access to fenced-in play areas. Downtime is included, and for dogs who prefer human companionship, individual one-on-one time is available.

Virginia

Top Doggy Daycare: Healthy Hound Playground
Sterling, VA

With two locations to choose from, Healthy Hound Playground is an award-winning, pet-care facility that offers daycare, boarding, grooming, and training. Doggie daycare gives your dog access to an entire day of indoor play with regular outdoor walks. Healthy Hound has about 6,000 square feet dedicated to four different daycare areas. For the dogs who prefer more alone time, day boarding is also an option with time spent in a large canine cottage and activities such as a doggy treadmill or an extra walk outside.

Another Great Option: The Ruff House Stay and Play
Greenbrier, VA

The Ruff House Stay and Play features 13,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor play space. Dogs are grouped by size and energy level, and there are no more than 15 dogs to every one staff member. The staff is trained in CPR and first aid. The Ruff House Stay and Play also offers day boarding should your dog not acclimate well in daycare. Other services include boarding, grooming, training, canine enrichment club, and pet first aid and CPR classes for owners.

Washington

Top Doggy Daycare: The Pet Brigade
Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA

Located at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, The Pet Brigade provides pet-care services for the military families, retirees, personnel, and civilians associated with JBLM. Services include doggie daycare, dog and cat boarding, dog grooming, pet transportation, dog walking, and dustless litter scooping. Dog daycare features group play, nap time, water fun in the summer, and other activities such as frisbee, tug, and fetch.

Another Great Option: Bone-A-Fide Dog Ranch
Snohomish, WA

Bone-A-Fide Dog Ranch sits on five fenced-in acres of land for dogs to trot around on – from trails to play yards. Roughly 4,800 square feet is dedicated to the Pole Barn – a covered play area. A climate-controlled indoor facility is also available for rest time and dogs are well supervised. For dogs who may be shy, small, or older, Bone-A-Fide has a spot for them, too.

West Virginia

Top Doggy Daycare: Crazy Bone Pet Spa
Parkersburg, WV

Crazy Bone Pet Spa features a 13,000-square-foot facility and offers services such as boarding, grooming, and daycare. Your pup has access to indoor and outdoor play spaces. Crazy Bone offers other add-ons, such as hydrotherapy, food, treats, and more.

Another Great Option: Play N Stay Pet Camp
Wheeling, WV

Play N Stay Pet Camp provides a variety of services, such as dog and cat boarding, dog daycare, grooming, and training. Other activities and events are also offered. Dog daycare features structured playtime and rest time with trained staff. For dogs who would rather spend time with the humans, Play N Stay Pampered Preferences allows you to customize your dog’s stay with things like cuddles, obedience training, treats, and more.

Wisconsin

Top Doggy Daycare: Dog City
Waukesha, WI

Dog City features dog daycare, boarding, and grooming. The facility houses two outdoor fenced-in play yards, equipped with handheld toys and agility structures. There’s also an indoor area for dogs to play, which also features play equipment. Rest time is scheduled throughout the day in order for pups to have downtime. Watch your pooch play indoors or out via the webcams.

Another Great Option: Leader of the Pack Doggie Daycare
Sun Prairie, WI

Leader of the Pack Doggie Daycare has a brand-new facility that features separate, climate-controlled play spaces so dogs can be grouped by age, size, energy level, and temperament. The outdoor play space is roughly 10,000 square feet in which your dog has access to play equipment. Leader of the Pack also offers day boarding for the dogs who are not fans of play groups. Other services include boarding and grooming.

Wyoming

Top Doggy Daycare: K-9 Corral
Casper, WY

K-9 Corral has dog and cat boarding, dog daycare, and obedience training. With roomy kennels and a large indoor and outdoor play space, dogs are always supervised when staying at K-9 Corral. Days are scheduled with exercise, downtime, and meal time. Additional activities include the swimming pool and treadmill.

Another Great Option: The Bradbury Boarding Camp
Cheyenne, WY

The Bradbury Boarding Camp is a luxury pet lodge and country resort, offering services such as dog daycare, boarding, homemade meals, and pet shuttle. With an indoor and large fenced-in outdoor play space, dogs are grouped by size, energy level, and temperament for playing and socializing. The facility features an on-site veterinarian technician at all times, as well as an on-call veterinarian.

Dogs have always been man and woman’s best friend. Pet resorts are on the rise, and the country is full of dog daycare services. Some states are overflowing with award-winning pet-care facilities. Chances are, wherever you look, you’ll find a dog daycare to fit you and your dog’s needs.

If you’re looking into the best dog daycares, you probably want to find other ways to take great care of your pooch. We have a load of resources that can help there.

One set of guides is our collection of buying guides which can help you find a great waterproof dog bed for a crate, an outdoor dog bed with a canopy, an elevated dog bed with a canopy, or a sofa dog bed.

You can also check out our puppy size calculator, dog growth charts including our goldendoodle growth chart, great dane growth chart, chihuahua growth chart, labrador growth chart, and golden retriever growth chart (and our general overview of the ideal dog weight), buying guides for important products like an escape proof dog harness (read our review of escape proof dog harness) and our list of foods dogs can and can’t eat and our article on how long it takes for a dog to digest food.

Our vet advisor, Dr. Suzanne Harrington, selected the best outdoor dog beds available. The Snoozer Waterproof Rectangle Dog Bed is her top choice thanks to its durability and comfort. It is also waterproof, so it will keep your dog warm and dry even if the ground underneath is damp.

Our Vet’s Top Pick

Snoozer Waterproof Rectangular Dog Bed

A generously sized, waterproof dog bed that is machine washable.

$97.95

Buy on Amazon

While this was Dr. Harrington’s top choice, she also offers a series of her top tips for what to look for in choosing the best outdoor dog beds, a section on who should avoid purchasing them altogether, and she personally selected the best beds for a variety of specific use cases.

The 5 Best Outdoor Dog Beds

1. Best Overall – Snoozer Waterproof Rectangular Dog Bed
2. Best Budget – FurHaven Pet Dog Bed
3. Best for Camping – Snooza Out N About Natural
4. Best for Warm Climates – K&H Pet Products Original Pet Cot
5. Best for Cold Climates – K&H Pet Products Thermo Tent

Outdoor Dog Beds Compared

*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers

Who Should Buy an Outdoor Dog Bed

• Parents of outdoor dogs – If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, an outdoor dog bed will keep him comfortable and warm in cold weather.
• Dog owners, who like the great outdoors – Do you enjoy hiking, camping, or just spending lots of time in your backyard? An outdoor dog bed gives your pup a place to rest and relax.
• People who travel with their dogs – A lightweight outdoor dog bed allows you to set up your dog with a place to call his own whether you’re staying in a hotel, crashing in someone’s basement, or spending the night under the stars.

Who Should Not Buy an Outdoor Pet Bed

• Parents of indoor-only dogs – If your dog isn’t going to spend any time outdoors, then you probably do not need an outdoor dog bed.
• People who live in extreme climates – It is not always safe or healthy for your dog to spend extended periods of time outdoors.¹ If you live in an extremely hot or cold climate, then it might not be beneficial to invest in a dog bed that will get little to no use.

If an outdoor dog bed isn’t for you, you may want to check out one of our other guides to find the right bed for your dog, such as our guide to buying the best waterproof dog bed, our elevated dog bed buying guide, or our guide to selecting the best dog sofa bed.

Buying Guide: Research Tips From a Veterinarian

As a veterinarian, I’m often asked for tips on choosing products such as outdoor dog beds. When considering which outdoor dog beds I would recommend to my clients, certain qualifications jump to mind.

1. Check the comfort level – Be sure that the bed will be comfortable for your dog, as you’ll be using it on hard outdoor surfaces and not a comfy carpet. You don’t want a flimsy, thin bed that would provide no protection against hot concrete or sand, wet grass, or frozen ground.
2. Check whether it is easy to care for – Make sure the bed is machine washable, as you’ll be treating it a bit more ruggedly than you would an indoor bed. Keep in mind that sand, dirt, or water will likely be getting on the surfaces. If you’re around a campfire, will you be able to wash out the smell when you get home?
3. Look for additional features – Depending on the climate, you might want to consider a bed that has a canopy for shade, a heat source for cold nights, or elevation for cooling.

Speaking of dog beds, sometimes it can be hard to teach a pup how to sleep through the night. Check out our article on how to get your dog to stay quiet throughout the night so you can get some sleep, too!

How Much Do They Cost?

Between $50 and $200

For most dog beds, you will be looking at a price ranging between $50 and $200. A simple dog bed for a small dog will be on the lower end of that range, while a dog bed with extra features, such as a canopy, heating, or a special mattress, will cost more, particularly if it is for a large dog.

Our Methodology: Why Trust Pet News Daily

When choosing an outdoor dog bed, many of my clients consult with me as their trusted veterinarian. Durability, comfort, ease of portability, and overall protection are factors that I would consider when recommending a dog bed to a pet parent. These qualifications are what I used when determining which outdoor dog beds to recommend. – Dr. Suzanne Harrington

The Best Outdoor Dog Bed Reviews

1. Best Overall – Snoozer Waterproof Rectangular Dog Bed

Our Vet’s Top Pick

Snoozer Waterproof Rectangular Dog Bed

A generously sized, waterproof dog bed that is machine washable.

$97.95

Buy on Amazon

The Snoozer Waterproof Rectangular Dog Bed made the very top of our vet’s list of the best outdoor dog beds. This bed is waterproof and machine-washable, making it perfect for long snoozes while camping, in the woods with the family, or just on a nice afternoon in the backyard.

The bed is stuffed with a cedar/polyfill. It comes in two sizes and seven different colors. You can wash the bed in the washing machine, but do not put it in the dryer or use any fabric softener; just hang it to dry. The large bed weighs about 14 lbs.

2. Best Budget – FurHaven Pet Dog Bed

Best Budget Buy

FurHaven Pet Dog Bed

This orthopedic outdoor dog bed will keep your dog comfortable and your wallet happy.

$44.94

Buy on Amazon

The FurHaven Pet Dog Bed is an indoor/outdoor bed that provides lots of cushioning and comfort to dogs who are snoozing on a hard surface like a concrete kennel, wooden deck, or uneven backyard. It comes in six sizes and over 40 colors and patterns, making it easy for you to find the one that is perfect for your dog.

The water-resistant cover keeps your dog warm and dry even if the ground is damp. The base is made from orthopedic egg-crate foam for the ultimate comfort, even for old, underweight, or arthritic dogs. It also promotes good air circulation.

3. Best for Camping – Snooza Out N About Natural

Best for Camping

Snooza Out N About Natural

Hit the road in style with this camping-friendly outdoor dog bed

Check Price

If you are ready to fire up the SUV or camper and take off for a long weekend, you need a sturdy, comfortable outdoor bed that is up for the rigors of travel. The Snooza Out N About Natural is just what you and your dog have been looking for. It will keep your dog comfortable and give him a home away from home while you’re away.

The mat is wooly and very snuggly for comfort, and the construction is tough and sturdy, making it appropriate for just about any outdoor terrain. The waterproof fabric is easy to wipe clean, but you can also take the whole thing apart and put it in the washing machine if you need to. You can even put it in the dryer in a cool setting!

4. Best for Warm Climates – K&H Pet Products Original Pet Cot

Best for Warm Climates

K&H Pet Products Original Pet Cot

Purchase the original pet cot with the canopy to keep your pup cool, comfortable, and protected from the sun.

$29.34

Buy on Amazon

If you live in a place that gets hot during the summer, you will want to check out the K&H Pet Products Original Pet Cot. In addition, consider buying the K&H Pet Canopy, which will further shield your dog from the sun. Note that they are sold separately.

Because this bed is raised, air will flow underneath it easily, keeping your dog cool. The fabric is waterproof, and it is meshed in the middle, adding to the air circulation. It has non-skid rubber feet and a removable, washable cover. It can hold up to 200 lbs, making it great for families with two or more dogs who might want to snuggle together.

5. Best for Cold Climates – K&H Pet Products Thermo Tent

Best for Cold Climates

K&H Pet Products Thermo Tent

This heated dog bed will be cozy and warm even on cold days.

$63.95

Buy on Amazon

If you live in a place that gets cold in the winter, the K&H Pet Products Thermo Tent is just what your dog needs to stay cozy and dry. The bottom heats up (it requires an external power source), and it also has a fleece cover that is removable to be extra snuggly.

In addition, the canopy is attached, so your dog’s body heat will stay in the bed. The bed is easy to assemble and does not require any tools. It comes in small and medium sizes. Note that while this bed will help keep the heat inside for your dog’s comfort, it is not weather-proof and should be placed under a covered area.

You may also want to check out our guide to getting your puppy to sleep through the night or our list of the best waterproof dog beds. And, if you’re looking to tucker out your pooch so they sleep better, we also have articles on how much exercise a dog needs daily, the best way to train your dog to use a treadmill, and a guide to buying the best dog treadmill.

Our vet advisor, Dr. Addie Reinhard, DVM, selected the crates on our list. The Frisco Ultimate Heavy Duty Steel Dog Crate rose to the top of the competition with its high-quality, thick steel, and tamper-resistant dual locks. It’s the kind of crate you can leave your dog in while you’re at work without worrying about the condition the crate, your dog, or your house will be in when you get home.

Our Vet’s Top Pick

Frisco Ultimate Heavy Duty Steel Dog Crate

Half-inch, 22-gauge steel with welded stress points keeps dogs safe and secure.

Check Price

While this was Dr. Reinhard’s top choice, she also offers a series of her top tips for what to look for in choosing the best heavy-duty dog crate, a section on who should avoid purchasing them altogether, and she personally selected the best dog crates for a variety of specific use cases.

The Best 5 Heavy-Duty Dog Crates

1. Best Overall – Frisco Ultimate Heavy Duty Steel Dog Crate
2. Best Budget – Frisco Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate
3. Best Escape Proof – Impact High Anxiety Crate
4. Best Extra Large – MidWest Solutions Series XX-Large Heavy-Duty Dog Crate
5. Best Metal – ProSelect Empire Single Door Steel Dog Crate

Heavy-Duty Dog Crates Compared

Here are the top picks from our veterinarian. Compare the ratings and features of different models.

*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers

Who Should Buy a Heavy-Duty Dog Crate

• Owners of strong dog breeds – Some breeds like Pitbulls are known for their strength, and they can quickly tear apart a flimsy crate.
• Pet parents with a large dog  – Heavy-duty dog crates are helpful for trips to the vet, when company arrives, or when the dog needs a break.
• Pet parents of anxious dogs – Anxious dogs of any size can get destructive, and a crate keeps them safe and out of trouble while you’re away.¹

Who Should Not Buy a Heavy-Duty Dog Crate

• Small dog owners – While too large is better than too small, small breeds don’t need the same security or durability features as large dogs. However, if you’ve got a heavy chewer, some heavy-duty dog crates come in sizes that fit smaller dogs.
• Owners of calm dogs – If you’ve got a calm dog that’s more reminiscent of a sloth than a cyclone, you probably don’t need a heavy-duty crate.

Buying Guide: Research Tips From a Veterinarian

During veterinary visits, I often get asked by pet parents how to choose the best heavy-duty dog crate. These tips and tricks will help you select the best model for your circumstances and dog. A dog crate can be expensive, so it is vital to do ample research when planning your purchase.

Don’t forget to ask your dog trainer or veterinarian for their product recommendations. They’re better acquainted with your dog and can often be a great resource when shopping for a dog crate.

1. Steel construction – Steel-constructed frames are the sturdiest on the market. Avoid dog crates made of plastic or wood as they’re easily destroyed, especially if you have an anxious or mischievous pup. While some crates are partially made of steel, the more steel (as in all-steel), the more durable the crate.
2. Steel thickness – Thick, half-inch steel can withstand heavy biting and tugging. The thinner the steel, the more likely your dog will be to escape. Thin steel may also bend when chewed.
3. Sturdy hinges and latches – Often, a dog crate’s weakest points are the hinges and latches. Closely inspect the hinges and latches, looking for sturdy construction and quality materials that won’t buckle or bend when the dog puts pressure on them.
4. Size – Be sure to choose a crate size that’s big enough for your dog. Your dog should be able to stand, turn around, and stretch easily in the crate.² A 24 to 30-inch crate is a good size for a small breed. For large dogs, veterinarians usually recommend at least a 42-inch crate. When in doubt, a larger crate is better. For more, check out our Dog Crate Size Chart.
5. Collapsible – Collapsible crates can travel with you while you’re on vacation and store easily when not in use.
6. Adequate ventilation – If your dog will spend a lot of time in the crate, the crate needs excellent ventilation. Without proper ventilation, the dog crate can become hot, moist, and uncomfortable.³
7. Dual locks – Look for a crate with at least two locks, known as a dual lock system. A dual locking dog crate system offers better security for canine escape artists. The second lock can give you peace of mind that your dog will stay safe and sound in his crate until you return.
8. Wheels/casters – Heavy duty crates can be heavy, especially if they’re made entirely of steel. Models with wheels or casters let you more easily move the crate through your home.

Dogs don’t naturally know how to use a crate, so don’t be surprised if he needs some training before he’s comfortable.

How Much Do They Cost?

Between $100 and $600

The crate size and material make the biggest difference in the price. Heavy duty, all-steel crates typically start around $150 and can cost as much as $500 or $600 for extra-large sizes. Thick, half-inch steel tubing is found at the top of this price range. Thinner steel and collapsible models can cost less than $100, but you’ll still probably pay over $100 for a collapsible crate for a large dog.

Our Methodology: Why Trust Pet News Daily

As a veterinarian and large dog owner, I have ample experience with heavy duty dog crates, both at the veterinary hospital and at home. I selected these products based on my personal and professional experience.

My selection process involves careful consideration of key qualities and features, like sturdiness and material quality. I generated this list by selecting products from reputable brands and made sure they have a history of customer satisfaction. Finally, heavy duty dog crates need to last, so I chose crates that I believe could stand the test of time! – Dr. Addie Reinhard, DVM

The Best Heavy-Duty Dog Crate Reviews

1. Best Overall – Frisco Ultimate Heavy Duty Steel Dog Crate

Our Vet’s Top Pick

Frisco Ultimate Heavy Duty Steel Dog Crate

Half-inch, 22-gauge steel with welded stress points keeps dogs safe and secure.

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The Frisco Ultimate Heavy Duty Steel Dog Crate features sturdy half-inch tubing made of 22-gauge steel. It’s specifically designed for dogs who chew their way through the plastic and burst through thinner steel without an afterthought. The coated steel’s hammer-tone finish resists the rust that forms when chewers sink in their teeth. Stress points at the corners and edges are reinforced with welded seams.

The heavy-duty design extends to the dual lock system. Both locks are positioned so that dogs cannot manipulate them from inside the crate. If you’ve got an escape artist on your hands, chances are he will have met his match with these locks. In total, this heavy-duty crate weighs 103 pounds. However, it’s still maneuverable thanks to four casters/wheels on the bottom.

2. Best Budget – Frisco Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate

Best Budget

An expandable design lets you adjust the crate to fit your dog as he grows.

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The Frisco Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate offers security for rambunctious dogs without breaking the bank. It comes in seven sizes, so chewers and escape artists of all shapes will stay secure. The initial purchase includes a divider, so you can adapt the size as your dog grows. The largest five models also feature dual latches. A removable plastic pan offers easier cleaning, too.

This collapsible model offers security when you’re on the road. Weighing in at only 23 pounds, it’s portable and collapses for easy storage when not in use.

3. Best Escape Proof – Impact High Anxiety Crate

Best Escape Proof

Impact High Anxiety Crate

This tough crate is designed for destructive dogs, including those with severe anxiety.

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The Impact High Anxiety Crate protects pups whose anxiety can lead them to destroy their crates and harm themselves in the process. This intense design is made of thick aluminum. Aluminum’s strength rivals steel but with much less weight. Consequently, this crate is a great option for frequent travelers. It even includes airline rails for easier airplane transport.

The Impact goes well beyond a dual lock system with four butterfly latches that are unreachable for the dog. All the seams are welded, creating a single piece of aluminum. Each corner is reinforced with stackable corners. With all that security, it still includes 360-degree ventilation. Finally, a paddle slam latch offers secure control over entry and exit.

4. Best Extra Large – MidWest Solutions Series XX-Large Heavy-Duty Dog Crate

Best Extra Large

MidWest Solutions Series XX-Large Heavy Duty Dog Crate

This 54-inch dog crates fits some of the largest of the large breeds.

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The MidWest Solutions Series XX-Large Heavy-Duty Dog Crate comes in an impressive 54-inch size for large breeds like Great Danes and Wolfhounds. It features two doors, each with a triple lock system to help your dog enter or exit. Corner drop pins keep the crate secure after assembly.

Due to the size of the crate, it includes an L-bar safety feature that prevents the sides from bowing inward after assembly. That leaves the dog plenty of room to move around until you get home. Lastly, a moveable plastic tray provides access for easier cleaning.

5. Best Metal – ProSelect Empire Single Door Steel Dog Crate

Best Metal

ProSelect Empire Single Door Steel Dog Crate

Half-inch tube made of 20-gauge steel keeps dogs in while you’re away.

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The ProSelect Empire Single Door Steel Dog Crate features half-inch thick, 20-gauge steel tubing with welds at the stress points. That kind of construction resists escape attempts and the anxiety of large, strong dogs. The dual lock system features latches that stay out of reach of your dog’s teeth or paws.

The hammer-tone coating and finish resist rust, corrosion, and bite marks. Cleaning is made easier with a removable steel pan. With all that steel weighing in at 75 pounds, you’ll need the four locking casters to move it around the house.

If you need a heavy duty dog crate and have a large dog, you may have other needs related to large dogs. If that’s the case and you’re in the market for a dog bed as well, you may want to check out our series of buying guides on that topic, including: our guide to the best large waterproof dog beds, our breakdown of the best large outdoor dog bed, our look at the best elevated dog beds for large dogs, or our guide to evaluating the best large dog couch.

1. Create a Routine

It’s no secret that humans benefit from having a routine, so it’s no surprise that our furry family members also benefit from having structure.² Establish a daily routine for your dog by taking them outside to potty at the same times every day. You should take your dog outside immediately after they wake up and before bed. For puppies, it is important to remember that their bladders are smaller, and they will need to go outside frequently. A good rule of thumb is that a puppy can control its bladder one hour for every month of age. For example, a 3-month-old puppy can hold its bladder for roughly 3 hours. If you wait longer than this timeframe to take your dog outside, you run the risk of them having an accident. Other important times to take your puppy outside to potty are during and after playing and shortly after eating or drinking.

2. Use Commands

We know that dogs can be trained to listen to commands, like “sit” and “stay.” Potty-training commands should be utilized in the same fashion.³ When you take your puppy outside, take them to a designated bathroom spot, such as an outdoor dog kennel, and use a simple command like “Go Potty” or “Go Pee” right when they are about to go. This will allow your dog to correlate a verbal command to the desired behavior of going potty outside.

3. Give Positive Reinforcement Immediately. Avoid Punishment.

Your dog’s brain has a reward system, just like humans!⁴ When training your dog to potty outside, you should use positive reinforcement so they will repeat the desired behavior.⁵ Take your dog to the designated bathroom spot, such as in an outdoor dog kennel, and tell them to “go potty.”

When they do their business, immediately give them lots of verbal praise (such as “yes,” “good boy/girl”, etc.) and a treat reward. Choose a high-value treat and give the reward immediately after your dog goes potty.⁶  Use something special, like freeze-dried liver treats, that your dog receives only for going potty outside. Most dog trainers agree that you must reward your dog in under 2 seconds of the desired behavior in order for them to associate the behavior with the reward.⁷

Although it may be tempting to punish your dog if they have an accident inside, it is unlikely to be of any benefit unless you directly catch them in the act. Remember that punishment only tells your dog what not to do and does not help them learn the desired behavior. Check out these animal behaviorists’ reasons on why punishment should be avoided. If you do happen to catch your dog having an accident inside, distract (but not scare) them with a “no” or other noise and immediately take them outside. Remember to give a high-value reward immediately after they go potty outside. Using this method, you are correcting the unwanted behavior by distracting them and then communicating the desired behavior by giving a reward for it.

4. Consider Crate Training

Part of training a dog to potty outside is to ensure that your dog is always supervised. If you do need to leave your dog unattended, crate training is the best way to prevent accidents indoors. There are numerous benefits of crate training your dog, the biggest one being that dogs don’t like to go potty where they sleep.⁸ By confining your dog when you’re away from the house or even at night, they will learn to hold their bladder while in their crate. Learn some tips on crate training your dog here.

5. Have Reasonable Expectations

When training a dog to pee outside, you should expect that accidents are sometimes going to happen. After all, that’s why we call it training! We know that human babies require time and patience to learn how to use a toilet, and it’s not much different for our four-legged companions. It is our responsibility to set our dogs up for success by establishing a routine, using commands, utilizing crate training, and positively reinforcing the desired behavior.

6. Accidents Happen – Here’s How to Handle Them

Accidents are a normal and expected part of the potty-training process. Remember to not punish your dog unless you catch them in the act or within 2 seconds of having an accident. Keeping a clean indoor environment for your dog is a key component of potty-training. A dog’s sense of smell is far more powerful than humans, so it’s crucial to clean up accidents thoroughly to remove that smell from their environment. Otherwise, they will continue to smell the urine and may think that area is their bathroom! This is particularly problematic if your dog is peeing in the bed. The best products for cleaning up accidents are enzymatic cleaners specifically for urinary accidents. Nature’s Miracle foaming cleanser makes clean-up a breeze, whether cleaning carpet or hard floors.

One way to help lower the impact of accidents is to address it with the type of bed you use, specifically by choosing a waterproof washable dog bed, the best elevated dog bed you can find that’s also waterproof, a waterproof outdoor dog bed for winter, or even a dog bed for a couch with a washable liner.

7. Be Cautious About Using Pee Pads

When your dog is unsupervised and you’re worried about them having an accident, you may be tempted to put down a pee pad to make clean-up easy. Now think about the message this is sending to your dog. Your dog will think that going potty inside is okay and this is going to complicate training your dog to perform the desired behavior of going potty outside. Aside from sending mixed messages, there are several other reasons why pee pads aren’t a great idea when potty-training your dog.⁹

If you’re also struggling with training your dog in other areas (like keeping your dog out of a room or keeping your dog out of the trash) then you might want to check out our list of the best dog proof kitchen trash cans.

There are different methods and ways to effectively do this, all with varying success depending on your dog and your dog’s motivations and trustworthiness. Ultimately, it all boils down to training and teaching your dog what he or she can and cannot do and where they can and cannot go.

Here are some basic tips to keep your dog out of a room.

Basic Obedience: Train Your Dog

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As previously mentioned, keeping your dog out of a particular room or space all boils down to training. It is extremely important to start with the basics and ensure your dog listens to simple obedience commands. If your dog doesn’t understand “no,” “sit,” “stay,” “off,” “heel,” or “out,” it will be incredibly difficult to teach them to avoid a room.

Start with working on these commands at home. Teach your dog to listen to “sit,” “stay,” “come,” “lay down,” and “heel”. Reward them when they listen – small, yummy treats, their favorite toy, or an affectional rub or pat on the head are great rewards. Of course, the best reward is what your dog responds to. Some are food motivated while others prefer toys or attention.¹

Work with a trainer. Look for puppy or dog basic obedience classes. These may be at your local pet store, at your veterinary clinic, with a doggie daycare facility, or a private trainer. Do your research and make sure the trainer has been trained themselves, good reviews both online and from other clients, and check into their references.

Establish a Command Word

Once you and your pooch have the basic commands and obedience training down. Start with more specific training. Establish a command word specifically meant to communicate to your dog that a room is off-limits. This command could be “off” or “out.” Be consistent with the use of this word and follow through when you say it. Start by keeping your dog on a leash and walk by the room in question. If and when they try to enter, say your command word and direct your dog away from and out of the room. Then reward them. Do this consistently and work to walking by without a leash once your dog starts to understand.

It might be helpful to redirect your dog. Use your command and then redirect with another command. For example, your dog walks into the off-limits room, say “out” and when the dog walks out you reward him and then give a command such as “sit,” “stay,” or “lay down.” Again, when he does this, reward him. Eventually, you should be able to tell your dog to get out of the room and go lay down (with the hopes he goes and takes a nap).

Establish Boundaries

Using your command word and basic training techniques are all to help establish boundaries. The boundary is typically the entrance to a room but may even be the foot of the bed, the end of a hallway, the top or bottom of the stairs, or wherever else you may need it to be. Think of it as an invisible line that your dog should not cross.

Again, consistency is key! You don’t want to make special allowances to cross these boundaries or the next time your dog is unsupervised, they might take it upon themselves to enter as they please – the opposite of what you are aiming for.²

Use Barriers

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For most dogs, the only reliable way to keep them out of a particular room or space is to use a physical barrier, especially when the dog is unsupervised. You might trust your dog to listen when they know you are around to enforce the rules, but the minute you leave, your dog might get other ideas.

The type of barrier you use will depend on the size of your dog, what room or space is off-limits, and how determined your dog is to get into that space.

Some examples include:

• Doors – Use a door that is already present or if the space allows have a door installed. Make sure the dog can’t easily access or use the door handle to open it.
• Gates – You can use a traditional baby gate, walk through the gate, or flexible fence-style barrier.
• Furniture – It might be easy enough to move an ottoman, chair, bench, or another piece of furniture to block your dog’s access to the room.
• Kennel or Crate – A simple way to keep your dog confined to a specific place or out of an area is to keep the dog housed in a kennel or crate when they are unsupervised.
• Pet locks – The use of pet locks can work to keep your dog out of certain smaller areas such as the pantry, in a cupboard, into a bathroom, or in the trash. Use locks such as baby or child-proof locks. Use a dog-proof trash can to keep them out of the trash.

Provide a Special Spot Just for Your Dog

It is important to make sure your dog understands where he or she cannot go but also that they have a safe and special spot just for them. This might be a place you use to redirect your dog when you tell them to leave a room and go to their special place.

A special spot might be the dog’s favorite spot on the sofa (or even a large dog bed on the couch), their outdoor dog bed (or whatever dog bed you have: an elevated dog bed or waterproof dog bed, for instance), their crate with their favorite blanket, a warm spot by the fire, or a comfy place by the window.

Provide a Distraction

Similar to redirecting, you can utilize distractions to keep your dog out of a room. Provide tasty durable chews or treats to keep their taste buds occupied. Give them a fun toy or mind-enriching puzzle to occupy their mind and distract them from wanting to go into the off-limits space.

More extreme distractions to consider if you are worried about your dog getting into a room while you are gone is taking your dog to doggie daycare, hiring a dog walker, or training your dog to use a treadmill (only the best dog treadmills, of course) to provide a fun distraction and exactly how much exercise your dog needs!

Whatever the room and whatever the reason, it is a good idea to establish some ways to keep your dog out of a room. This might even be for their own safety. Remember to give lots of positive reinforcement and provide fun distractions for your pup as well!

Obedience Training and Learning New Tricks

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So maybe obedience isn’t the first thing to come to mind when you’re talking about entertainment, but the fact of the matter is, obedience training can really occupy a dog’s mind. Dogs not only like to get active physically, but they also like a little mental stimulation. Learning obedience or new tricks is a great way to get their wheels turning towards something positive rather than thinking about the next thing of yours that they’re going to chew up.

Now before you try to put your dog through an all-day school, obedience training and learning new tricks are best done in short bursts. Most dogs, like children, have a very short attention span and will lose interest after 10-15 minutes. With this in mind, give your dog short training sessions throughout the day. Work for five or 10 minutes on new commands and five or so minutes refreshing the old ones. Use positive reinforcement to aid in their learning and move on to new tricks or commands once your dog has something mastered.¹² This will keep them on their toes, give them something to do, teach them valuable manners and tools that benefit their safety, and provide some bonding time for the two of you.

Play Hide-and-Seek or Hide-the-Treat

Hide-and-seek is the ultimate game that combines reasoning with rewards. Dogs, and kids alike, love it. This game gives them the chance to explore their world, rationalize their findings and reap a great reward at the end. And best of all, you can play hide-and-seek outside or in a small apartment, it doesn’t take a lot of space. First, have your dog sit and stay (a great chance to practice those obedience skills!) and then go and hide somewhere in your home. Once you’re hidden call your dog and have them find you.

If you’re strapped for time or are trying to multitask, you can also play hide-the-treat in a similar way. Place a treat under a pillow or blanket and have your dog hunt for it while you fold the laundry or send some emails. This game can be repeated over and over with treats or toys. You could also add a snuffle mat into your dog’s day to make treats and food just a bit more fun.

Create an Obstacle Course

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If you’ve ever competed in or watched agility then you know how much fun it can be for both you and your dog. It mixes physical skills with decision-making and following directions. While most of the time agility takes place on a course with brightly-colored obstacles, it doesn’t have to. You can make a fun obstacle course at home in your yard or living room using boxes, pillows, boards, or furniture.

Create a course with obstacles to go under, over, around, and through. Then, once your dog learns the pattern, change it up. Not only does this help your dog meet their physical and mental needs, but it also provides you with an outlet for your creative talents.

Provide a Window to the World

While not quite as curious as their feline counterparts, dogs are interested in what is going on around them. If you can’t be there to entertain your dog first-hand, giving them a place to observe the comings and goings of the outside world will keep them busy longer than you think.

If you have a sliding glass door or window that is low to the floor, you can place their bed in front so that they can watch with comfort. If you have a window seat or wide window sill, safely set their bed up there. If all of your windows are higher, you can provide a bench or chair for them to sit in to get a good view. For smaller dogs, look into a window perch. These are shelves that attach to windows or window sills to allow cats a bird’s eye view but can work for small dogs as long as they’re within the weight limit.

Invest in Interactive Toys

Everything requires batteries these days, including some dog toys. While battery-operated chase-type toys are entertaining, they’re not the only interactive toys that will get your dog’s attention. Spreading peanut butter or pumpkin in a Kong or inserting kibble into a puzzle toy will occupy your dog’s hours while they figure out how to get at their tasty reward. Giving ice cubes will also make your dog happy but also your house a little messy.

Rotate Toys that Entertain

It may be hard to imagine your dog being bored when their toy box is overflowing, but just like people, dogs like to see something new every once in a while. This doesn’t mean that you need to buy new toys, instead just rotate them so that they only get a few toys at a time. Every week or so put those toys away and get out some other ones. By only allowing them a few toys at a time and rotating them out, it makes every week like Christmas and your dog will play with their old toys like they were brand new. Of course, if your dog has a favorite stuffed frog or rubber tire toy, let them keep that one but rotate through the rest.

Final Thoughts

Dogs love spending time with you and often that is entertainment enough. For those times when you can’t be with them or lounging on the couch isn’t cutting it, having a few activities up your sleeve can never hurt. Any one of these six ideas for keeping your dog entertained is sure to give them the physical and mental motivation that they desire.