Best Dog Crates without Bars for Anxious Dogs

Is a dog crate really necessary? How about bars and safety guards? Do bars make separation anxiety worse for dogs?

I personally think bars or metal grills that create a barrier between you and your dog are completely unnecessary. If you have a small dog that is afraid of being in an enclosed space, or if you have a puppy that is going through the crate training process, then I recommend getting a wire dog crate without bars.

Wire crates without bars allow your dog to see what’s going on around them and they provide more ventilation than crates with solid walls. If you’re worried about your dog getting out, you can always get a crate that has a door with a latch.

What is a dog crate without bars?

A dog crate without bars is a wire crate that doesn’t have any solid walls or barriers. This type of crate is also known as an “open” or “airline” crate.

Advantages of a dog crate without bars:

• 1. Your dog can see what’s going on around them.
• 2. More ventilation than crates with solid walls.
• 3. If you’re worried about your dog getting out, you can get a crate that has a door with a latch.

Disadvantages of a dog crate without bars:

• 1. Your dog might be able to reach their paw through the wire and scratch or damage something on the other side.
• 2. If you have a small dog, they might be able to squeeze through the wire and escape.

How to choose the best dog crate without bars:

• Size: Consider the size of your dog. Make sure the crate is big enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Small-size dogs are comfortable with sizes from 18 to 24 inches. Medium-size dogs need crates from 24 to 30 inches, and large dogs require sizes from 30 to 42 inches.
• Type/design of enclosure: If you want an airline-approved crate, make sure it has smooth rounded edges and no sharp protrusions. If you have a small dog that might be able to squeeze through the wire, look for a crate with smaller wire spacing (usually 1-2 inches).
• Ventilation: The more ventilation the better. Wire crates typically have more ventilation than crates with solid walls.
• Portability: If you plan on traveling with your dog, make sure the crate is easy to transport. Some wire crates come with handles and wheels for easy transportation.
• Assemblage: Easy assemblage is always a plus. Wire crates usually require no assembly.
• Dismantling: If you need to take the crate apart for storage or travel, make sure it’s easy to do. Some wire crates can be taken apart and put back together without any tools.
• Design: Go for cave-like models as opposed to cage-like designs of dog crates. Cave-like models make dogs feel more secure.
• Make sure you pick a chew-proof brand: Anxious dogs tend to chew on their crates, so make sure you pick a brand that offers chew-proof options.
• Go for airline-approved brands: If you’re planning on traveling with your dog, make sure you get a crate that is approved by airlines.

Will my bars-free crate rid my dog of anxiety?

If your dog has separation anxiety, a bars-free crate will not rid them of their anxiety. However, it will provide them with more visibility and ventilation, which might make them feel more comfortable. If you’re crate training a puppy, they might be less likely to cry and bark in an open crate because they can see and smell their surroundings.

Do I need to get a bars-free crate for my puppy?

It’s not necessary, but it might make the crate training process easier for your puppy. If they can see and smell their surroundings, they might be less likely to cry and bark in the crate. Make sure you get a size that’s big enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Bars vs no bars

There is a debate among dog owners about whether or not bars are necessary on a dog crate. Some people feel that bars create an unnecessary barrier between the owner and the dog, while others believe that bars provide extra safety and security.

The main argument for bars is that they prevent dogs from escaping. If you have a small dog that is a Houdini-like escape artist, bars might be the way to go. However, if you have a small dog that is afraid of being in an enclosed space, bars might make the situation worse.

The main argument against bars is that they can create separation anxiety in dogs. If your dog can see you but can’t get to you, they might become anxious. This is especially true for puppies who are going through the crate training process.

So, what’s the verdict?

If you have a small dog that is afraid of being in an enclosed space, or if you have a puppy that is going through the crate training process, I recommend getting a wire dog crate without bars. However, if you have a small dog that is an escape artist, you might want to consider getting a crate with bars.

Symptoms of separation anxiety for dogs:

1. Excessive barking or whining

2. Chewing on furniture or other objects

3. Urinating or defecating in the crate

4. Pacing back and forth in the crate

5. Trying to escape from the crate

Reviews of top-rated dog crates for Separation Anxiety with no Bars:

Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier

With over 6,000 sales on Amazon most parents have rated our top crate brand on this list without bars.

This Petmate Sky Kennel pet carrier is perfect for small dogs who need extra security and protection while traveling. The 4-way vault door provides extra security by preventing the carrier from sliding or shifting, while the durable construction ensures your pet’s safety and comfort. With 363 degree ventilation and a comfortable, safe design, this small dog carrier is perfect for car travel, road trips, and vet visits.

The Petmate Sky Kennel is a sturdy, airline-adaptable pet carrier that comes with all the travel necessities included. The portable dog kennel includes 2 Live Animal stickers, clip on bowls and ID stickers for easy modification for travel. The top handle is available on the 21 inch and 28 inch sizes.

Pros:

1. -Sturdy and durable construction
2. 4-way vault door for extra security
3. 363-degree ventilation
4. Airliner adaptable
5. Includes travel necessities:2 Live Animal stickers, clip on bowls and ID stickers

Cons:

1. Does not come in a size for large dogs

Heavy-duty dog crate with Bars for Separation Anxiety:

ProSelect Empire Cage

The ProSelect Empire Dog Cage is a heavy-duty dog crate that is perfect for dogs with separation anxiety. The all-steel construction is durable and sturdy, while the 2-inch bars provide extra security and peace of mind. With four doors, your dog will have plenty of access to their new space, and you’ll have easy access to them as well. The removable tray makes cleaning up after your pet a breeze, and the included divider panel allows you to adjust the size of the crate as your dog grows.

Pros:

• All-steel construction is durable and sturdy
• 2-inch bars provide extra security
• Four doors for easy access
• Removable tray for easy cleaning
• Included divider panel allows you to adjust the size of the crate

Cons:

• Expensive
• Not available in most sizes

Best dog crate for escape artists:

PetSafe Solvit PetPorter XL Dog Crate

The PetSafe Solvit PetPorter XL Dog Crate is the perfect solution for dogs who are escape artists. The all-steel construction is durable and sturdy, while the 2-inch bars provide extra security. The double door design allows you to open one door at a time, so your dog can’t make a run for it. The included divider panel allows you to adjust the size of the crate as your dog grows, and the removable tray makes cleaning up after your pet a breeze.

Pros:

• All-steel construction is durable and sturdy
• 2-inch bars provide extra security
• Double door design prevents escape
• Included divider panel allows you to adjust the size of the crate
• Removable tray for easy cleaning

Cons:

• Not available in most sizes

How to make a dog crate escape-proof:

1. Use a heavy-duty dog crate that is made of sturdy materials.

2. Choose a crate with bars or a double door design to prevent your dog from escaping.

3. Use the included divider panel to adjust the size of the crate as your dog grows.

4. Clean the crate regularly to keep it free of dirt and debris.

5. Inspect the crate regularly for any loose screws or gaps that could allow your dog to escape.

FAQs

Can a dog escape a crate?

Yes, a dog can escape from a crate if it is not properly secured. Make sure to choose a heavy-duty crate that is made of sturdy materials, and use the included divider panel to adjust the size of the crate as your dog grows. Inspect the crate regularly for any loose screws or gaps that could allow your dog to escape.

How do I keep my dog from escaping his crate?

There are a few things you can do to keep your dog from escaping his crate. Choose a heavy-duty crate that is made of sturdy materials, and use the included divider panel to adjust the size of the crate as your dog grows. Inspect the crate regularly for any loose screws or gaps that could allow your dog to escape. You can also use a double door design to prevent your dog from escaping.

What is the best way to crate train a puppy?

The best way to crate train a puppy is to start with short periods of time in the crate, and gradually increase the amount of time as your puppy gets used to their new space. Give your puppy plenty of positive reinforcement when they are in the crate, and make sure to clean the crate regularly to keep it free of dirt and debris.

How are high-anxiety dog crates made?

High-anxiety dog crates are made of sturdy materials that are durable and secure. The all-steel construction is durable and sturdy, while the 2-inch bars provide extra security. The double door design allows you to open one door at a time, so your dog can’t make a run for it. The included divider panel allows you to adjust the size of the crate as your dog grows, and the removable tray makes cleaning up after your pet a breeze.

How do dogs escape from crates?

Dogs escape from crates by chewing through the bars or pushing open the door. Make sure to choose a heavy-duty crate that is made of sturdy materials, and use the included divider panel to adjust the size of the crate as your dog grows. Inspect the crate regularly for any loose screws or gaps that could allow your dog to escape. You can also use a double door design to prevent your dog from escaping.

What is the best way to keep a dog from chewing on their crate?

There are a few things you can do to keep your dog from chewing on their crate. Choose a heavy-duty crate that is made of sturdy materials, and use the included divider panel to adjust the size of the crate as your dog grows. Inspect the crate regularly for any loose screws or gaps that could allow your dog to escape. You can also use a double door design to prevent your dog from escaping.

What is the best way to clean a dog crate?

The best way to clean a dog crate is to remove the tray and wash it with soap and water. You can also use a mild bleach solution to disinfect the crate. Make sure to rinse the crate well after cleaning, and allow it to air dry completely before putting your dog back in. Inspect the crate regularly for any dirt or debris, and clean it as needed.

How often should I clean my dog’s crate?

You should clean your dog’s crate at least once a week. Remove the tray and wash it with soap and water. You can also use a mild bleach solution to disinfect the crate. Make sure to rinse the crate well after cleaning, and allow it to air dry completely before putting your dog back in. Inspect the crate regularly for any dirt or debris, and clean it as needed.

What are some DIY steps to make escape proof dog pen?

To make an escape-proof crate for your dog, reinforce the door with a metal L-bracket. Use screws or zip ties to attach the bracket to the door, and make sure it is secure. Inspect the crate regularly for any loose screws or gaps that could allow your dog to escape. You can also use a double door design to prevent your dog from escaping.