7 Best Toys for Puppies In Crate

How to entertain a barking friend in the crate? What are the best toys for puppies in crates? Will plastic toys play havoc with the health of my puppy?

If any of the above-mentioned questions stumbles in your head, then you are in the right place. Here you will find not only how to train a dog with the aim that he spends most of the time in the crate but also what toys you should put in a crate that your canine friend will love and enjoy the most in the meantime.

When you have adopted a barking friend, then there are two things you need to consider. The first one is giving the proper training and afterward, bringing a crate into the equation that allows your dog to relax or take a rest.

No matter how expensive pet toys you are offering to your canine friend, if you don’t have a clear idea about how to keep the puppy entertained in the crate, all of your efforts will end in smoke.

If you’re at sixes and sevens when it comes to how to train a dog, then you may be interested in what Adrienne Farricelli is offering. The Brain Training For Dogs by Adrienne Farricelli offers a dog training course that will transform your tail-wagger friend from brainless to a brilliant one by bringing the 21 fun and simple games into the equation.

Before offering you a list of the safe toys to leave in dog crate, let’s take a quick look on,

What is a dog crate?
Why should you buy a crate?
How to pick the best dog crate?
How to keep your canine friend entertained in a crate?

Let’s take a dive into it.

What is Dog Crate?

A dog crate can be defined as the enclosed space within your home. It is made up of metal or plastic with a door where your canine friend can feel safe and take rest when it feels distressed or gets tired. Simply put, a dog crate acts as a private “room” where you can put your dog. This private room allows your dog to take rest, especially when the surrounding environment is too loud and your dog feels stressed.

Why should you buy a dog crate?

Like lions live in a den, you can assume the crate where a dog can take a rest when he got tired. Here are the 3 benefits of bringing a crate to your home.

Reason #1. A Sweet spot within a house

By placing the crate in the right location, you create an environment where your dog can take rest to ease the tiredness. Take cautious eyes on the children so that they don’t make a mess while the dog takes rest within the crate.

Reason #2. Safety

When you are engaged in some important works or you have enclosed yourself in the kitchen, then the crate is a lifesaver. Just put the dog in the crate after the proper crate training, you can focus on the cooking or other urgent tasks that attract utmost priority without any safety issues.

Reason #3. Eases Outdoor visits

Are you planning to take a tour with your pet? Then conduct proper crate training from day one. Once your pet feels safe, comfortable, and happy in a crate then it’s easier to take him on an outdoor tour or to the vet.

How to choose the best dog crate

After you have adopted a dog, the first thing you need to buy is a crate. Many pet owners feel guilty thinking that they are putting their canine friend in jail.

But, let me tell you that this is not correct. By bringing a crate you have given a quiet, secured, private, and comfortable place where your pet can enjoy leisure time.

The marketplace is full of dog crate. It becomes a difficult call to pick the best one, especially for the first-time pet parents.

Here are the 3 parameters you should take into consideration while choosing a crate.

Is it safe?
What types of crates are available in the market?
What is the size of the crate?

Parameter #1. Is it safe?

Are you planning to take a tour with your pet?

If yes, then the first thing you must consider is you should buy a crate that is safe and strong enough to withstand a certain amount of force in case of an accident. The crate must be strong enough so as to tolerate the jerking of the vehicle where it will be kept.

If safety is the first priority, then you must buy a crate that is made up of steel. It will save your dog even if your car meets with an accident when you are enjoying sightseeing with your canine friend.

Parameter #2. What types of crates are available in the market?

If you are hunting high and low for the best dog crates then the first thing you need to know is what types of dog crates are available in the market. Broadly speaking, there are 4 types of dog crates available and they are plastic dog crates, metal dog crates, wire dog crates, and wooden dog crates.

Plastic Dog Crates – You will find it handy. This type of dog crate is convenient while airline travel. These dog crates have wire vents for ventilation and raised interior that will keep your pet safe and comfortable.

Metal Dog Crates – Made up of steel. These dog crates are the best option when you are looking for a dog crate for your home. These dog crates are not ideal for outdoor travel. Being made up of steel they are a bit expensive and heavy when compared to wire or plastic dog crates.

Wire Dog Crate – Made up of iron wire they are an affordable option for many pet owners who are looking for a dog crate that not only is durable but also has 2 doors on either side for maximum security.

Wooden Dog Crate – If you want to install a stylish dog crate in your home following your home décor, then wooden dog crate is the best plausible option you have got. You will find various wooden dog crates that fit with your home decor.

Parameter #3. What is the size of the dog’s crate?

The size of the dog crate that you want to bring to your home for your canine friend depends on two factors and they are,

For what purpose do you want to buy a crate?
What is the size of the dog?

Factor #1. Coming to the first question, you should be clear whether you will prefer to carry the crate when you go outdoors with your dog or create a private space at your home.

That’s why before picking a dog crate from the marketplace do consider the above-mentioned question.

To create a private space within your home for your dog, I recommend you to buy a dog crate with a dimension of 40″ long x 25″ wide x 25″ high and higher.

But, if you want to take your dog outdoor then I recommend you can buy a dog crate with a dimension of 24″ long x 16″ wide x 16″ high and higher, if the weight of the dog is up to 40 pounds.

Factor #2. After you have decided for what purpose you are going to shopping for your pet, it’s time to measure the ideal size of the kennel. A small-scale kennel will make your dog uncomfortable and a sizeable crate will make a dog feel insecure.

However, when you buy a sizeable crate then you are offering a den-like experience. This kind of crate does not restrict the dog’s tiny steps and offers plenty of room to stand in the crate even when the crate’s door is closed as you are performing some urgent tasks.

To determine the ideal size of the dog crate, all you have to do is to measure the dog’s height and length while it is standing. Then simply add the 4 inches to the dog’s length and height to determine the ideal crate size. After the calculation, conduct a witch hunt for a dog crate that matches the size.

Before buying a crate for your dog, you must consider whether you have a puppy that is 4 weeks old or a mature one. When you are nurturing a young puppy, I recommend you should bring a crate that comes with dividers. It creates a substantial space for your dog as it grows.

Finally, do consider what dog breed you have in your home. For example, if you have brought an Australian Shepherd or Doberman Pinscher or German Shepherd or Labrador Retriever, then you should buy a crate with 42L x 28W x 30H and higher dimension. The average weight of the above-mentioned breeds varies between 71 pounds and 90 pounds.

Once you have measured the size of the dog, and what type of dog crate you want to offer to your pet that fits your budget, it’s time to go on shopping.

How to keep your canine friend entertained in a crate?

When you have adopted a puppy then it’s your responsibility to give him a life that is full of happiness and joy.

But many persons find that they have caged up their pets when they put them in a crate.

But let me tell you the truth. By leaving your pet in a crate you don’t cage him up rather give him space within a room where it can take rest and stay relaxed.

When you perform crate training you teach the puppy that a crate is a special place where it can go in and out at its convenience without any signs of stress. What will encourage your dog to stay in a crate for long hours is bringing a soft, washable blanket or bedding into the equation. After proper crate training, your fur friend has an idea that a crate is a safe place.

When you’re at sea to figure out what exactly your barking friend wants, then as a caring pet parent you may be interested in what the BarkBox is offering. The BarkBox is a subscription-based service provider that will send a curated collection of tasty and nutritionally-balanced dog treats that house the highest-quality ingredients, interactive dog toys, and accessories once a month that will keep your dog happy in a crate.

Just type your barking friend’s size, choose your subscription length among, 1 month, 6 months, and 12 months, and wait for what BarkBox is offering. One thing is sure, it requires blood, sweat, and tears to track down the interactive toys that the BarkBox is offering because the toys are designed and brought into existence at home by professional artists.

But where should I place the crate?

The best place to install the crate is where your family spends most of the time. You can place a soft blanket or towel to encourage your puppy to stay some times in the crate. When you give your puppy a comfortable place where he can take rest after a meal, the chances are higher that your puppy will acquire a habit to stay in the crate.

Depending on the puppy’s age and habit, crate training can take a couple of weeks. Don’t put your puppy in the crate at first. Instead, by offering delicious meals and health supplements in the morning and in the evening, you can give them a signal that they will find excellent stuff when they spend time in the crate.

After your puppy voluntarily enters the crate without any anxiety and enjoys the meal, now it’s time to move to the next step.

When your dog enjoys the time that he spends on a crate with no fear or anxiety, you can leave him with a bunch of toys and delicious foods for a short period of time without leaving the home. Repeat the process several times a day and increase the time gradually. Once your dog can stay in the crate for 30 minutes then you can leave your dog with some toys or delicious food to enjoy the leisure time in the best plausible way.

If you’re conducting a fishing expedition for your barking friend, then you may be interested in what PetPlate is offering. The manufacturer has made it in a USDA facility that houses human-grade ingredient that keeps your pitbull a mile away from common health hazards, for instance, allergies and digestive issues. The best part is that PetPlate is offering a 100% money-back guarantee on your first order if your pup does not consume the diet. To get the food recipe to your door, you need to enter your canine companion’s age, breed, and activity level.

7 Best Toys for Puppies in Crate

Before you place the best toys to keep your puppy entertained in a crate, do a proper analysis of which toys are safe and which aren’t.

Here is the list of unsafe stuff that is never to put in the dog crate. These items are proved to be harmful if swallowed and in the worst case, they may hinder digestion and lead to various intestinal problems.

Toys that are made up of plastic or toxic elements.
Dog collars and electrical equipment.
Poisonous plants namely Sago Palm, Aloe Vera, Daffodil, etc.

The toys that are made up of plastic or metal such as pins, springs, etc. when consumed they can cause digestive issues or damage the digestive tract. What you can do is place balls or toys that are made of hard rubber that is designed in such a way that may be safely swallowed.

When your puppy is four months old then the chances are higher that it may chew since at this stage puppies start to teethe. By offering the chew-friendly toys you not only help your puppy to reduce the discomfort of sore gums but also give proper training on what your puppy can and can’t chew.

KONG – Puppy Toy Natural Teething Rubber

If you are looking for a toy that is not only made in the US with soft rubber but also customized for a growing puppy’s teeth and gums then this is one of the best affordable options you have got. This is a gamechanger for those puppies who suffer from separation anxiety, boredom. You can use the toy for crate training . Apart from that, by employing the KONG – Puppy toy, you can play exciting games with your puppy as it has an unpredictable bounce that your puppy may enjoy. Additionally, you can place exciting treats i.e. peanut butter, snacks, etc. within the toy and allow your puppy to taste the delicious recipes within the crate.

SmartPetLove Snuggle Puppy Behavioral Aid Toy

If you are in a witch hunt for the best toys that will help you to get started with crate training by reducing negative behaviors resulting from anxiety namely whining and barking, then you will find this toy a handy one. Made up with Polyester, this toy is equipped with two AAA alkaline batteries that will pulse heartbeat for 24 hours continuously. Since the puppy is made up of polyester, it is easily washable.

HOUNDGAMES Puppy Toy Mat with Teething Chew Toys

Made up with eco-friendly and non-toxic materials namely Nylon, Foam, Rubber, and Cotton Blend, it’s a combination of 6 toys that you can offer to your pet friend. Plus, it is equipped with a high-quality foam mat that helps your pet to take a rest without lying down on the cold floor if he gets tired. It is available in two color variants i.e. blue and pink.

PetSafe Busy Buddy Tug-A-Jug Meal-Dispensing Dog Toy

No matter what you have tossed at your puppy, if your pup chews everything, then you must bring this toy to your home without wasting any time. It is made of durable non-toxic materials and has textured natural rubber wrap that will help you to clean the teeth and gums of your puppy.

It is designed for the overly eager eaters weighing over 40 pounds. You can employ this dog toy as a kibble-dispensing feeder to make the dinnertime more enjoyable while encouraging a happy dining experience.

Nina Ottosson By Outward Hound

To maximize the playtime by offering a puzzle toy while you are stick to any urgent task, Ninja Ottosson is the best plausible option you can try. This toy is deemed fit to reduce anxiety since this toy has hiding compartments that allow you to place the delicious healthy supplements that your pet loves to eat.

If you want to offer an interactive dog toy, this is worth buying. I have found that my dog loves playing with this toy all alone.With this toy, you can allow the pet to apply the rational instincts to figure out where it will get excellent treats and surprises.

Starmark Treat Dispensing Chew Ball Tough Dog Toy

It’s no wonder that this chew ball is quite popular among dog owners. This is not only durable but also available in a round shape where you can fill peanut butter that your dog enjoys. To make your pup’s mealtime exciting and delightful, just stuff the ball with the pup’s favorite dish and put it in the crate. If your pet is a hard chewer and kicks the ball frequently then this is the must buy as it’s hard to withstand all of the chewings, kicking, biting.

Made up of Rubber, it floats in the water. This feature allows you to use this chew ball as a dispenser that will keep your dog engaged when you have important tasks that require urgent attention.

WEST PAW Zogoflex Toppl Treat Dispensing Dog Toy Puzzle

If you are looking for a dog chew toy that is not only made of non-toxic materials but also dishwasher safe, then you can buy this toy that your pet will love.

If you have brought a playful pup who gnaws and chews aggressively, then you can gift him this dog toy that will keep your pup busy and entertain for hours.

This dog toy is free from toxic materials and is dishwasher safe. West Paw Zogoflex is made of rubber and won’t leave your dog sick if you can fill this toy with kibble or treats.

Final Thoughts

No matter what is the age of the puppy, crate training is the most effective way to train your pup on how to spend the time within the crate. If you aren’t successful in crate training , all of your efforts will end in smoke despite you have bought a spacious crate or offer various interactive toys in the crate that are quite expensive.

After proper crate training, when it’s time to buy the best crate toys, do place toys that are not only built without any toxic materials but also durable ones.

Read also: Top Rated Dog Crates for Large Dogs
Read also: Best Dog Crates for Large Dogs with Separation Anxiety

As the accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, as a preventive measure, buy pet insurance to save big on your bowwow’s medical costs. A significant canine parent prefers buying pet insurance because the insurer will pay up to the 80% vet bill on the account of illness, injury, and wellness. Unlike other pet insurers who top up the amount with the progression of the canine companion’s age, the Eusoh won’t hike the price with the advancement of your barking friend’s age and cry out for $75 a month irrespective of the fact at what age you are buying pet insurance from Eusoh.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best crate toys for bored dogs?

When you have some urgent tasks to be done, all you need to do is to offer the dog such toys that will keep your dog’s mind active. To keep your dog’s mind and body busy you can place Sniffiz SmellyMatty Snuffle Mat for Dogs, or Nina Ottosson Dog Twister Interactive Game in the crate and let the puppy play with it.

What are the best chew toys for puppies in crates?

If you have adopted hard chewers namely Pitbulls, German Shepherds, and Labs, and are looking for the best chew toys for puppy in crate, then we recommend you should buy Goughnuts Virtually Indestructible Ring Durable Dog Chew Toy since it’s made of the same rubber the astronauts use.

What are the best puppy toys for crate training?

When you are looking for the best toys that you can offer while crate training then you will find A kong toy as the best affordable option. You can fill it with peanut butter, cream cheese that your canine friend may enjoy when he undergoes crate training.

But if you can break the bank then you can put HOUNDGAMES Puppy Toy Mat with Teething Chew Toys in the crate during training. It is made up of non-toxic and eco-friendly nylon, foam, rubber, and cotton blend.

Should I cover the dog’s crate?

To find the best plausible answer, you need to conduct an experiment. After you have covered the crate, and your dog feels relaxed and stays as usual, and enjoys the meal to the fullest then it’s a sign that you are good to cover the crate.

But if your dog looks distressed after you have covered the crate, then you should remove the cover immediately.

How long can I put a pup in a crate?

After proper crate training, you can put your pup between 3 hours and 7 hours after placing a bunch of toys that he enjoys and delicious meals that he prefers to eat. But don’t put your puppy in the crate for 8 hours or longer.

Where should I place the crate during the day?

Preferably in the living room or dining room where everybody spends most of the time during the day either by watching popular TV shows or by hanging out with family members. Do remember, dogs are social animals and it’s your responsibility to signal that they are the inseparable part of your family. By placing the crate in the living room they realize that they are the members of the family and they live to the fullest.

But if you place the crate out of the living room and place it somewhere else, they feel isolated and lonely. That’s why do place the crate where your pet will surround with the family members to lead to a happy life without any anxiety and stress.

Where should I place the crate during the night?

If you have a puppy that is only a week or a month older, then don’t allow it to sleep all alone. It is a better idea to put the crate in the bedroom where you or your family members sleep. When the puppy sees and hears the family members during the night, this will help him reduce the anxiety and trauma.

Should you put toys in dog crate at night?

Yes, but with caution. A treat-filled toy that is durable and made up of solid rubber is the safe bet that you can place in a crate.

Have I missed the best crate toys for puppies? Make a comment below so that I can add exciting crate toys that I have missed.

If you have enjoyed the post, feel free to share this post with your friends and colleagues to let them find the crate toys.