Crate training is a great tool for managing your puppy or dog while you are gone, and for assisting housebreaking. Every dog should be comfortable being crated once in a while. If you kennel or crate your dog at all, you have probably considered what bedding is best to put in your dogs cage. If you have a puppy, or a destructive dog, normal bedding can easily become shredded and go to waste. You have several options for bedding in your dogs crate, including a great product called Primo Pads, that is guaranteed for 90-days against damage. But remember, there is no such thing as an "indestructible dog bed"...
Crate Mats: Often in polyester fleece, a mat that fits the crate
- Pros: Fit the crate, thin enough to throw in the washing machine, soft
- Cons: Thin, not supportive, collect hair and dirt, easily chewed up
Dog Beds: Available in all types and styles, such as orthopedic or bolster. A favorite is the large Kirkland brand beds at Costco for just $18, although most dog beds are much more expensive, with large ones often in the $90 range
- Pros: Comfortable, cozy, thicker than a crate mat, some have removable covers for washing
- Cons: Gets expensive to replace, difficult to wash if they become wet or smelly, too fun for a puppy to rip open and de-stuff!
Blankets
- Pros: Affordable, use one of your old blankets, easy to wash
- Cons: Thin, bunch up in the crate and don't provide even support for the dog to rest, can get shredded
No bedding: Many destructive dogs or puppies are put in crates with no bedding at all
- Pros: Nothing to rip up, easy to clean if your puppy has an accident overnight
- Cons: No comfort or support, your dog is lying on a hard surface and can develop calluses or swollen joints, some dogs will not sleep as soundly at night because they are not comfortable
And finally,
Primo Pads: A special waterproof crate pad made of heavy duty vinyl. Inside the vinyl is a 1 ¼” piece of non-toxic, closed cell foam to provide comfort.
- Pros: The unique thing about Primo Pads is how they fit into the crate, leaving no edges for a dog to begin chewing on. Your Primo Pad is the exact same size as the crate, so you take the pan out and replace it with the pad. They provide even support for your dog
- Provides support and shock absorption for large breed dogs
- Totally waterproof- no need to do laundry, hair does not stick, simply wipe clean!
- Another pro is they come with a 30-day guarantee on damage. If your dog destroys the pad, the company will replace it free of charge
- Cons: can be a bit more expensive than some other dog beds, but are more resistant to wear
My personal review: I have tested Primo Pads in my kennel and I've been very happy with them. They feel comfortable, sort of like a mat at a gym. My 5-month old puppy did chew up all the corners of one and it was quickly replaced by the company for a brand new one. Remember, there is no such thing as "indestructible" when it comes to dogs. If your dog is destructive, consider more exercise, obedience training, and giving him appropriate safe things to chew while he's crated, such as Nylabones and Kongs. For dog training in Chicago, visit Dynamic Dogs Training & Behavior
For more information on Primo Pad crate mats, often seen at dog shows around the country, visit www.PrimoPads.com
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