Whether dogs need blankets in their crates is a common question for pet owners. Blankets can provide warmth and comfort but also pose some risks. The right answer depends on factors like the dog’s breed, age, health, and environment.
In the opening paragraphs, we’ll briefly answer some key questions about dogs and blankets in crates:
Do dogs get cold in crates?
Yes, dogs can get cold in crates, especially without blankets. Dogs have a lower body temperature than humans and feel cold more easily. Factors like having a short coat, being young or old, and being in a cold environment increase a dog’s risk of getting chilly.
Do dogs need blankets for warmth?
Some dogs benefit from a blanket for warmth, depending on the factors above. A blanket traps their body heat, insulating them from drafts and cold crate surfaces. Dogs with health conditions may especially need a blanket to stay warm.
Do blankets provide comfort in crates?
Yes, blankets can provide mental and physical comfort. The fabric is soft against their skin and provides a familiar scent. Blankets give anxious dogs a sense of security. The padding insulates against hard crate floors.
Can blankets be dangerous for dogs in crates?
Blankets do pose some risks. Loose blankets can tangle around legs or block airways. Eating and shredding blankets can cause obstructions. Blankets also absorb waste and fluids, becoming unhygienic.
What are the best blankets for dog crates?
The best crate blankets are designed for safety. They are chew-resistant, tightly woven, non-toxic materials. Fleece and flannel blankets tend to be soft, insulating choices. Avoid loose blankets that could entangle dogs.
When should you not use a blanket in a dog crate?
Avoid blankets for dogs who tend to chew, ingest, or excessively scratch/dig at bedding. Skip blankets for puppies still potty training and dogs with incontinence issues. Remove blankets in warm environments or for breeds that easily overheat.
Do puppies need blankets in their crate?
Puppies often benefit from crate blankets to feel secure and stay warm. Use puppy-safe materials that won’t unravel. Avoid loose blankets puppies could get tangled in. Remove blankets if the puppy chews or has accidents on them.
Conclusion
In summary, many dogs appreciate blankets in their crates for warmth and comfort. But blankets can also pose safety risks in some situations, so consider your individual dog’s needs. Focus on chew-resistant, tightly woven blankets that can’t easily untangle.
When to Use a Blanket in a Dog Crate
Here are some common situations when using a crate blanket is recommended for dogs:
Cold Environments
Use a blanket when keeping your dog in a crate in cold areas, either indoors or outdoors. This includes unheated garages, covered patios, temporary outdoor setups, and rooms prone to getting chilly. A blanket traps your dog’s body heat and prevents them from getting too cold.
Senior Dogs
Elderly dogs tend to have a harder time regulating their body temperature. Providing a blanket helps senior dogs stay nice and cozy in their crate, especially important if they have arthritis or sore joints. The padding also prevents pressure sores.
After Baths
Wet fur takes time to fully dry, so freshly bathed dogs appreciate a blanket straight out of the tub. The blanket absorbs moisture and allows air circulation for faster drying.
Young Puppies
Puppies under a year old have difficulty retaining heat. Blankets keep puppies warm and provide physical security. Use safe, chew-resistant puppy blankets.
Dogs Recovering from Illness
Sick dogs need extra warmth as they recover. Blankets prevent chilling and keep incisions or injured areas insulated. Monitor for chewing or scratching at blankets.
Separation Anxiety
Anxious dogs may feel more secure with a familiar scented blanket. The comfort helps ease stress when left alone. Avoid destructible blankets that could harm anxious chewers.
Dog Breeds Prone to Chilling
Short-coated breeds like Greyhounds, Whippets, and Pit Bulls tend to get colder without thick fur insulation. Hairless breeds like Chinese Cresteds also benefit from blankets in their crates.
When Not to Use a Blanket in a Dog Crate
Here are situations when it’s best not to provide a dog blanket in their crate:
Overheated Environments
Avoid blankets when crating dogs in hot areas. The fabric can trap heat and cause dogs to overheat. Signs of overheating include panting, drooling, restlessness.
Excessive Chewers
Dogs who tend to aggressively chew bedding should use crates without blankets. Ingesting fabric can cause intestinal blockages or choking hazards.
Untrained Puppies
Puppies still potty training may soil blankets before learning to hold it. Removing blankets reduces mess and reinforces crates as non-potty zones.
Incontinent Dogs
Incontinent or elderly dogs prone to accidents should avoid blankets. Regularly soiled fabric creates unhealthy conditions and requires frequent washing.
Allergies
Dogs with fabric or stuffing allergies may react to certain blankets. Stick to hypoallergenic blankets or go blanket-free if needed.
Hot Dog Breeds
Thick-coated dogs like Huskies, Malamutes, and Chow Chows could overheat on blankets in crates. Keep their area well-ventilated and cool.
Choosing a Dog Crate Blanket
Picking an ideal crate blanket comes down to material, size, and fastening method. Here are the main choices:
| Blanket Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Fleece | Very soft, warm, lightweight | Pills easily, not very durable |
| Flannel | Absorbent, warm, affordable | May shrink, not thick |
| Microfiber | Soft, easy to clean | Traps odors |
| Kuranda | Durable, chew-proof, machine washable | Expensive, less cozy feel |
| Rubber-backed | Grips well in crate, wipes clean | May trap odors over time |
Measure your dog’s crate dimensions and look for a blanket that fits snugly without bunching up. Avoid loose blankets dogs could become tangled in.
Secure crates blankets with:
- Velcro or snap attachments
- Elastic bands at corners
- Ties or ribbons clipped on edges
This prevents shifting and chewing access. Change blankets regularly and wash at least weekly.
Crate Blanket Safety Tips
Follow these tips for safely using blankets in dog crates:
- Supervise dogs initially using new blankets
- Remove and replace soiled or damaged blankets
- Select chew-resistant, nontoxic materials
- Wash regularly to prevent odor buildup
- Ensure good air ventilation in covered crates
- Never use loose strings, ribbons, or ties
- Inspect for loose threads, holes, and wear
- Adjust temperature as needed (heat/AC)
Avoid makeshift blankets like towels, sheets, or human blankets which can more easily unravel. Stick to pet-safe fabrics marketed for crates.
Alternative Crate Bedding Options
Besides blankets, pet stores also offer these crate bedding alternatives:
Crate Mats
Thin, padded mats are a blanket alternative. They provide cushioning but are harder to chew. Mats clean easily by wiping or hosing off.
Bare Crates
Bare plastic or wire crates work for dogs needing minimal bedding. Place a towel or pad for comfort.
Crate Beds
Contained dog beds fit snugly into crates. They have built-in padding and removable covers. These provide comfort for low-chewing dogs.
Bedding Alternatives
Old t-shirts, small towels, or scraps of blanket can substitute for dog bedding in a pinch. Avoid any choking hazards.
Conclusion
Blankets are a popular form of bedding to provide warmth and comfort for dogs spending time in crates. Make sure to select durable, non-toxic materials and monitor your dog’s behavior. Avoid loose blankets that could tangle and remove bedding that becomes soiled or shredded.
With careful selection and supervision, crate blankets allow most dogs a cozy place to rest and relax. But they aren’t necessary or appropriate in all cases, so make the decision based on your dog’s individual needs and situation.