The Sherpa Pet Carrier On Wheels

I get a lot of questions about Sherpa Pet Carriers these days.  They continue to be the most popular item on my website, so I thought I would dig into each different item and try to answer the most asked questions about each in an informative post.  Today, I will discuss the Sherpa on Wheels.  This Sherpa Pet Carrier is one of the handiest carriers that Sherpa makes.  It resembles the Roll Up carrier but has a detachable handle and wheels to make it very handy for traveling.  The great thing about it, is that you wouldn't even know it has wheels if you didn't look.  It is great to tote around like a regular bag style carrier as well.  The Sherpa on Wheels comes in two sizes Medium and Large.  As of yet, I have not heard of anyone who has not been able to take a medium sized Sherpa on Wheels on the airline with them.  I can honestly say that I have received no feedback about traveling with the Large sized carrier on an airline.  Obviously as I have posted many times and other blogs have too, be sure to check with the specific airline first.  Also, check out the "Guaranteed on Board" program Sherpa offers.  Many people worry about the dimensions as sometimes the Sherpa Carriers are a bit larger than the airline specifies, but as an airline pilot as my other profession, these carriers are soft sided and can be formed to fit under the seat in front of you.  The airlines have no problem with this and that is why Sherpa has been allowed to implement the "Guaranteed on Board" program with a outstanding success.  I am not an official authority, but the dimensions given for carriers are hard set for hard sided carriers, but can be stretched a bit if a soft sided carrier will mold to fit under the seat.  Everyone who has purchased a medium sized Sherpa on Wheels or other Medium Sherpa Pet Carrier from me has been allowed on board and aircraft.  I would like to hear more information about larges, and the Sherpa program will be a better source than I when it comes to that.  All in all, these are great wheeled carriers and very comfortable for your pet.

Sherpa Pet Carriers for Travel

A while ago I wrote a post about Sherpa Pet Carriers and the "Guaranteed on Board" program that Sherpa Pet Group came up with for getting your small pet carrier on board an airplane.   For more information on that, see their link above, or check out that particular blog post.  In this post, I just want to say that traveling with a Sherpa Dog Carrier is one of the best ways to travel with a pet that I have ever experienced.  After researching, promoting, and seeing these carriers on a regular basis, I was finally privileged to actually use one and travel with it.  Our small dog likes to travel, but hates carriers.  We finally found one he likes when we got our own Sherpa Pet Carrier.  It is a Medium sized Sherpa Roll-Up Carrier, and it is quite a treat.  Sherpa has put a lot of time and thinking into the construction of their carriers, and it proves that they have the pet in mind when they design them.  Our dog slept nicely and didn't have any problems at all.  I always though they looked plush and well built, but the real test is with your pet, and this carrier passed our test with flying colors.

Start Dog Crate Training this New Year

By now you have probably heard or read about the use of dog crates in training your dogs.  If you haven't been crate trained your dog, this new year, take a good look at the benefits that positive crate training can have on you and your dog.  Some people are very pro crate training, and others are against using a dog crate for training.  They believe that it is an act of punishment.  I understand both sides, and in reality, it can be both.  It really depends on you the dog master and how you use the crate.  If used negatively, please don't use a dog crate for training your dog.  If you use it in a positive manner, then I am one of the biggest supporters of crate training out there.   There are many articles, blog,s and professional trainers that can guide you in properly using one of these great tools to train your dog.  I have actually posted a few articles on the web, and written some short blog posts in this blog to help refresh your memory about dog crates and using them for training.  If you are new to the subject, once again, I suggest you talk with one of the many great professional trainers to get you going in the right direction.  Many of us have dogs.  Some are new puppies, and some are older.  Any dog can be crate trained!  It is their natural instinct to be den animals, and they understand that concept.  This new year, let's make a goal to properly implement a dog crate in our dog's life and we will see fantastic results.

Burglars take a Dog in Dog Crate in Dallas

I like to read the news and keep up on current events, especially when it comes to dogs and pets.  I like to have knowledge of what I write about to inform anyone that comes across this blog.  In my search of events, I came across this article in the Dallas News where a dog was stolen from his home in his pet crate.  It makes me sick when people do such horrible things.  Apparently the burglars took the dog amongst about $7000 worth of items from the apartment.  I hope this post gets out because the dog is still missing and maybe someone that reads about it here will get to the article and and help the owners find their dog.  Their email addresses are posted in the Dallas News Article where they are offering a $500 reward.  At least they had an alert neighbor who saw two men carrying the dog crate and a television out of their apartment, but apparently there is still no dog.  It makes me realize that even in pet crates, dogs can be taken from their owners.   Hopefully if anyone has any knowledge, they can click on one of the links to the article I have put in this post, read it, and help these people out.

Dog Crate Safety for the Holidays

The Holidays are upon us and it is a wonderful time to spend with your families, friends, and loved ones.  The Holiday season is stressful for some as well as a time for enjoyment.  The same goes for our dogs too.  Being around many new and loud people can cause stress in our dogs.  Dog crates come in very handy during this time of year.  Make sure you properly use a dog crate for you dog during the Holiday season as well as any other time of year.  Your dog can be overwhelmed with all of the different faces and emotions that our human family members can bring during this time of year.  Especially when young children are involved, keep an extra eye out for any signs of stress on your pet.  While your dog may be the nicest, calmest dog in the world, Unfamiliar and unwanted attention could bring out a reaction that is not desired.  If put in a situation that your pet does not enjoy, he or she will likely use the fight or flight mechanism.  This does not mean that your dog is a bad or mean dog.  It is just a natural instinct.  That is when your dog crate can be a very comfortable safe haven for your pet during this stressful season.  If you keep an eye out for the early warning signs such as you dog moving away when being approached, and doing everything possible to remove itself from a situation, then you will be far ahead of the game and be able to put your dog in its crate before you ever see hair standing on end, a curled lip, or a growl.  Obviously, these signs are not desired behaviors from your dog, but watching out for them could prevent a more disastrous behavior.  Dog crates are great tools, both for training and for providing a safe environment for both your pet and your guests.  Use them properly and have a safe and happy holiday.

Memory Foam Dog Beds now at Canine Crate Store

Memory foam dog beds are one of the types of orthopedic beds I generally talked about in the last post.  We all have heard of memory foam and the benefits that it can give.  Now, this great technology is available for dogs too.  A quality memory foam dog bed is very nicely constructed and can help with the comfort of your pet.  We all love our pets, and in doing so, we should make their lives more comfortable with a quality bed.  These beds are great for older dogs, dogs with aches and pains, and all of our loved pets.  It is exciting to have technology for pets as well as humans. Check some out and see what you think.

Orthopedic Dog Beds - New Items Now Available

Orthopedic dog beds will give your pet the comfort he or she deserves.  There are many types of orthopedic dog beds on the market today.  They come in a variety of shapes and sizes too.  There are memory foam, heated, cooling, and many more.  An orthopedic dog bed will alleviate the discomforts of older dogs and dogs with muscle and joint pain, and it will also give any dog a comfortable place to rest and sleep.  They are gaining popularity for people and dogs too.

Heated Dog Beds - Now at Canine Crate Store

It's getting to be that time of year.  It has been unusually cold in my parts of the woods, and my dogs can sense it too.  One way to keep your dog warm this winter is with a heated bed for your dog.   There are many different types and styles of heated dog beds on the market today.  A high quality model is a must when it comes to these products.  There are many out there to choose from, and some of the features that are included on high end models will keep your pet safe too.  Most quality heated dog beds have some type of safety feature on the cord to keep your pet protected from the electricity.  Many of the fine models also have orthopedic foam for your dog's comfort.  If you have an older pet, then a heated dog bed will add to the comfort of his joints and muscles.  Give your pet some comfort this winter and into the summer with heated dog beds that also cool too.  The options are endless.

Sport Sack Sherpa Pet Carriers - Now at Canine Crate Store

I am really liking the Sport Series Sherpa Pet Carriers right now.  I just wrote a review on the Sport Wheels and now, here I am writing about the Sport Sack.  Why not?  I really like the design that Sherpa has come up with in the Sport Series.  The Sport Sack as you can see, is a really neat tote.  It is designed like a purse and works just like it looks.  It has plenty of storage for your car keys, wallet, and items like that, while providing ample space for your pet's items as well.  It has a comfortable space for your pet too, with a nice, plush pad to keep him/her comfortable.  Another great thing is that is bears the name, Sherpa Pet Carrier which through the experience I have had is far and away the best name in pet carriers.  Check out the Sport Sack.  It definitely has a sporty look, so if that is what you like, I highly recommend it. 

The Sport Wheels Sherpa Pet Carrier

The Sherpa Sport Wheels is a fancy way to travel with your pet.  This is one of the Sherpa Dog Carriers in the new Sport Series by Sherpa.   The great thing about the Sport Wheels is that it is versatile and durable.  It can be used in a variety of different ways.  It has a nice handle at the top which allows you to carry it like a regular bag.  It can be strapped on like a backpack, and it can be rolled around on its wheels.  If you like to travel with your pet and need an easier way to pack your pet around, this is a great carrier for you.  Like any other Sherpa Pet Carrier, it is a quality item.  It has plenty of storage for your pet's and some of your items too.  It has a very nice pad for your pet to relax on during travels.  It also has plenty of ventilation and a 1 year warranty.  I really like this design.  It is affordable and comes in black or red.  It is a winner in my book. 

1 Day Left to Save Extra On Dog Crates

Hey everybody, I thought I would send out a message that tomorrow is the last day of the coupon code sale at my store.  If anyone is looking for a dog crate, kennel, carrier, or any related product, come check out the store.  We are offering an extra $5 off all orders under $100, $10 off orders over $100, and $15 off orders over $200.  Our prices are already much lower than retail, but we want to serve you for the Holidays. Please come visit and see what we have to offer.  My store is only a few months old, and I am still looking for any and every type of feedback I can get from you the customer.  I created this store from one dog lover to the next to provide a different type of customer service.  I want our service to be personal from me to you.  My wife and I are the only people you will have to deal with when shopping online with us, and we cannot give you the type of customer service you want and deserve and the products you want without some input from you.  We don't even mind some constructive criticism.  We have enjoyed some success and compliments as we grow, and hope to help you find what you are looking for in dog crates and other related products.  Thanks again to all who have supported us.  Happy Holidays!

Bob

Front Pet Carriers - New Items

A front pet carrier gives you a hands free approach to packing your small pet around.  It also allows you to carry your pet like a baby, allowing a tight bonding experience between you and your pet.  It is not an alternative to proper training and exercise for you pet though, but there are many good uses for a front pet carrier, especially if your pet is getting up there in years or is not a very mobile pet.  These pet carriers offer a comfortable place for your pet to sit while going wherever you go.  I love all of the great ideas that are available in pet carriers these days and look forward to seeing what will be next.

Backpack Pet Carriers - Now Available

A backpack pet carrier is yet another great addition to the styles of pet carriers available to you.  Many of them are the same carriers we discussed in the rolling pet carrier post.  It seems that the companies that make them have decided to incorporate both technologies into on carrier.  That's a great idea by me.  Then I only have to buy one carrier and I have multiple uses.  A backpack dog carrier is great for a hands free approach to toting your pet around.  It works just like a regular backpack and has a comfortable place for your pet to be while providing plenty of ventilation and a view of the world.  Now you can take your pet to class with you. Ok, maybe not every school will allow that, but think of all the great uses you have with a backpack pet carrier.  Like all carriers, a backpack dog carrier comes in a variety of styles and colors to choose from.  Another plus for me.

Rolling Pet Carriers - A Brief Look

In the growing trend of pet carriers, one of the greatest inventions is the rolling pet carrier.  A pet carrier with wheels is one of the easiest, most convenient ways to transport your small pet.  These fantastic carriers, come in a variety of shapes and sizes.  Many of them also have multiple functions and can be used as backpacks or and other things such as a pet car seat.  A rolling pet carrier is great for traveling long distances, going to the park, or just about anytime you want to tote your pet with you.  Most are approved for airline use, but once again, it is always a must to contact the specific airline you are traveling on before hand to find out for sure, especially with a pet carrier with wheels, as some of them may be approved for air travel, but not for traveling with your pet in the cabin of the aircraft.  No matter what, they are very stylish and a great addition to the pet carrier family.

Dog Crate for The Dog Who Almost Ruined Christmas

I was talking with my mother on the phone the other day, and the conversation found us talking about dogs.  We were remembering some of the fun times we had with our dogs when I was a child.  Then we started talking about one time when our dog almost ruined Christmas.  We had left the house for a little while, and when we came back, it was a mouth opening experience what we saw next.  Our wonderful pooch had knocked over the Christmas Tree, ornaments were broken, and the lights strung all over the house.  I had forgotten about this, I think we remember our childhood pets as perfect, at least I do.  After my mom reminded me of that story, I remembered how our family learned that Christmas the importance of a dog crate.  Had we only used that simple training tool, our tree would have been standing upright when we cam home that day.  My dogs today are far from perfect, but they know and use their dog crates whenever they decide to retreat to a safe place.  We also know to use their dog crates when we need to leave the house.  It is great protection for the things that could have been.

Midwest Life Stages Dog Crates - Review

One of the more popular dog crates on the market today is the Life Stages Dog Crate by Midwest Pet Products.  I get a lot of questions about this particular crate, so I will try to answer some of the questions in this review.  The Life Stages series of crates is a best seller most everywhere you can find them.  They are the middle-of-the-line dog crate by Midwest, but don't let that fool you.  The Life Stages Dog Crates are some of the toughest on the market.  They are very finely built and built by the largest maker of pet homes in the country.  They come in single and double door versions.  They come with crate divider which is very handy if you have a puppy.  It allows him/her to grow into the crate.  They come with a very nice removable tray for easy cleaning.  The hinges and locking devices work very nice and smoothly.  One of the greatest things about the Midwest Life Stages Dog Crates is that they are very affordable.  They generally cost much less than their competitors of similar quality and still give the strength and durability you are looking for.  This is one of my favorite wire crates because I like value, and value + quality is what you will get with one of these fine dog crates.

Dog Crate, Kennel, Carrier - Sale

Thought I would let anyone who would like to know about the sale we are having this week at Canine Crate Store.  All dog crates and kennels are on sale for the Holidays.  The sale will run through Saturday Dec. 5, so come check out our products and see what we have to offer.   We are a new business, and we would appreciate any feedback on how we can better serve you and what you think of our website.  We would also appreciate any customer reviews you may have on any of the products we offer.  Everything in the store is on sale with discounts off our already low prices.  We pride ourselves on quality products and customer service on a personal level.  The only people you will deal with when shopping with us are the two owners, a dog loving husband and wife duo.  If you are looking for a dog crate, or any other related product, please come browse our store and let us know what you think.  That is the only way we can know how to better serve you, our customer.  Thank you very much.

Wireless and Electric Dog Fence Systems now Available

One of the hottest things in the pet industry these days is the invisible fence.  There are two main types of invisible dog fence systems out there.  There is the electric dog fence system that uses wire that you bury in the ground around the perimeter of the area you want your dog contained in, then there is the wireless dog fence system.  These systems use state of the art technology to set up boundaries and establish containment.  Both types of fences are very effective and humane.  The can cover many acres of area, with extra wire and accessories, and are much safer than letting your dog roam wherever he pleases.   There are even products out there that take the place of dog crates or kennels.  Each person has his/her own opinion about electronic products for their pets.  I suggest you do some research and base your opinion on that research.

Black Friday Dog Crates

The biggest shopping day of the year is upon us, and those of us looking for a new dog crate for our pet are looking for the best deal we can find.  There is sure to be a great deal out there.  Whether you brave the crowds and wait in line at your favorite pet store or enjoy your shopping experience from the comfort of your home looking for the best online deals available, we want to wish you a happy shopping experience.  Many of us will be getting a new puppy for Christmas.  Quality dog crates are everywhere, and we invite you to come look at our selection.  Happy Holidays!

Wood Dog Crates - A Quick Look

Wood dog crates offer a beautiful alternative to some of the duller plastic and wire dog crates.  They  come in a variety of sizes shapes, colors, and styles.  One of the best options for a wood dog crate is shown above.  This is a crate enclosure by Midwest Pet Products (Heritage Series).  It is actually a wood cover that goes over you already existing wire crate.  It is a nice option for people who already have a dog crate .  It comes in a nice cherry wood finish and can be used as an end table or other piece of furniture.  For those who do not have a dog crate, there are many other options as well.  There are some very nice wood dog crates available on the market to purchase.  Some have wire in the middle for your dog's protection and ventilation, and there are others that are made from solid wood.  They also include plenty of ventilation for your dog.  Wood dog crates are very finely constructed and do cost more than traditional dog crates but for those who are willing to spend the extra money, they really make a nice piece of furniture and also serve a useful purpose for your pet too.

Midwest Canine Camper Soft Dog Crates - Now Available

The Midwest Canine Camper is one of the best soft pet crates on the market.  This is a very sturdy soft crate.  These fabulous crates are perfect for camping and other outdoor activities.  They are great for indoor use too.  One of the coolest things about this crate is that there are no poles, straps, or tools are required for assembly.  Just pop it up and zip using Midwest's patented technology  That's it!  The Midwest Canine Camper Soft Dog Crate is made from heavy duty, 600 denier polyester with PVC backing for a water resistant soft crate.  A double sided, synthetic sheepskin cover on the floor makes it extra comfortable for your dog.  This dog crate will live up to its name!  For a lighter version, Midwest also makes the Canine Camper Day Tripper.  This too features the same pop and zip technology, is a bit lighter and comes at a lower price.  Both of these great versions are very affordable and I recommend them for anyone looking for a soft crate for their dog.

Sherpa Pet Carriers - Guaranteed on Board This Holiday Season

Everyone is getting geared up for the Holiday Travels. Many of us are traveling with our pets, or bringing home a new pet this season.  If you have a smaller pet that you are traveling with, you should look at a Sherpa Pet Carrier for your travels this season.  Sherpa Pet Group is now sponsoring their Guaranteed on Board Program.  They spent a lot of time on this program with the help of the major airlines.  It is proof of just how good their products are.  Sherpa Pet Carriers has been the top name in  pet and dog carriers for many years now, and they are showing you how confident they are in their products.  Don't take my word for it.  Go to http://www.flygob.com/ to see for yourself and there you can get the details in their words.  I don't want to get any of the information wrong, but I do want to say that Sherpa Pet Carriers have my vote as the best dog carriers in the business and this is just more proof.  Be safe in your Holiday travels.

A Fashionable Dog Crate or Carrier for Your New Holiday Puppy

The Holidays are creeping up on us, and with that we must be looking for that perfect gift for our loved ones.  Nothing says love more than the gift of a new puppy, and nothing compliments a new puppy like a high quality dog crate or dog carrier.  Imagine that little furry surprise that will love you unconditionally.  It really is a great experience.  There have been many books, articles, blogs, videos, and so on about the importance of implementing a dog crate in your dog's training, and your Holiday pup should be no different.  Start out right and you will eliminate the crazy madness that can come with an teenage dog.  The great thing about dog crates and dog carriers this year, is that there are so many styles and colors out there.  Even if you are the type that thinks crates are punishment, take a look at what is available.  You will probably find that the great designs of today actually create a warm and peaceful place for your dog.  Even a plain wire or plastic crate can be complimented with a plush dog bed or cover.  Happy Holidays!

Midwest Dog Crates now at Canine Crate Store

One thing I am proud of today, is that we are now carrying Midwest Dog Crates in our store.  Midwest has been making dog crates since the 1960's, and in my opinion, you definitely get the biggest bang for your buck with a Midwest Dog Crate.  There is a Midwest Dog Crate for everyone's budget, and in everyday life, that is a big deal.  Not only can you find value with Midwest Dog Crates, but every model is made with care and detail.  Quality is the best thing about owning a crate by Midwest.  They offer some of the best wire crates in the business and some of the best soft crates and designer crates too.  They also have great exercise pens, kennels, and the list goes on.  Be sure to check out a Soft Midwest Dog Crate if you are looking for a soft crate.

Fashionable Dog Carriers

Fashionable small dog and pet carriers for small pets are here to stay.  Now you are able to buy a dog carrier for your dog, and have it look like any designer bag.  They have been growing in popularity recently, and I don't think that they are going to go away.  It makes sense.  Now you can make shopping for your pet fun.  You can pick and choose from many styles of dog carriers and even have many different designs.  One to match every outfit you wear.  They come in many styles.  Dog carriers that look like back packs, purses, a dog carrier with wheels, you name it, they have it.  Most have been designed with travel in mind and are airline approved.  They have been designed to fit under the seat in front of you so your pet can be right by you during the flight.  Pretty cool.

Vari Kennels - Still the Best

Last month I posted a topic that suggested that the Fashion Series Vari Kennel by Petmate was the best plastic dog crate on the market.  I would like to change my opinion and go as far as saying that all Vari Kennels by Petmate are the best plastic dog crates on the market.  We have used these great kennels in my family for many years.  I still have on that I use for my two year old lab that is probably as old as I am if not older.  My father got it many years ago.  He said at the time, you could only get them from the airlines.  How far we have come since then.  Now, there are many great plastic dog crates out there, and I am not saying a Vari Kennel is the only way.  I actually have and enjoy some other brands and models out there.  I'm just letting the crate do its talking.  I am 33 years old, and I do not know how old this Vari Kennel I have is, but I am sure it is one of the first models, and it is still going strong.

Soft Dog Crates - Now Available

Soft sided dog crates are really neat.  They have been growing in popularity recently and for good reasons.  They are light, portable, and they just plain look better than other types of dog crates.  If you are the traveling or camping type, a soft dog crate is the crate for you.  They fold flat, are easy to set up, and are very durable.  High quality soft dog crates are usually water resistant, can be staked to the ground, and have pockets to store things for your dog.  The only drawback of a soft dog crate is the fact that it is made of fabric.  If you have a dog that chews, no matter how tough it is, it is no match for a good set of teeth.  Get the information you need about soft dog crates when choosing one for your pet.

Chain Link Dog Kennels - Now at Canine Crate Store

Many of us have thought about a nice chain link outdoor dog kennel in our back yard.  They are a great solution for many problems dog owners have.  They are great for peace of mind when you are at work or away from home knowing that your dog is safe and secure.  Chain link dog kennels are also great for those of us who do not have fenced in yard and would like our pet to get some fresh air without having to be supervised the entire time.  Chain link dog kennels, however, are not a solution to proper exercise an care for the needs of your dog.  There are many different ways to put a chain link kennel in your yard.  If you think a one of these great kennels is for you, be sure to get all of the information about chain link dog kennels you need when a kennel for your dog.

Wire Dog Crates - New at Canine Crate Store

Wire dog crates have been around for many years.  They are some of the most durable and best dog crates available, provided you select one of high quality.  Many of the cheaper knockoffs are flimsy and do not fold.  Most of the high end wire dog crates are of a collapsible design which allows them to fold flat for easy storage.  A good wire dog crate will last for many years, unfortunately much longer than our beloved pets.  They come in many shapes and sizes and are available in most places you find pet products.  Make sure you get all the information you need when selecting a dog crate for your dog.

New Puppy and her Dog Crate

I got to see a new puppy in action yesterday, and boy was she great.  My best friend just got a Brussel Griffon pup.  What a cutie.  They have been implementing a dog crate during their house breaking of the pup, and once again it is just more evidence that this method works!   I was able to baby sit her a few weeks ago when she was brand new to the human world, and I had to keep a close eye on her to make sure she wasn't going to use my house as a bathroom.  Then yesterday, I was privileged to take on the task of baby sitter again.  Actually, I should say that my 2 year old Lab is the real baby sitter, I just get to supervise them both.  Since the first time she stayed at my house a few weeks ago was a night and day difference.  Only a few weeks of using a dog crate as a house breaking tool, made this a completely different pup.  She was great!  She knew the ins and outs of potty training.  My props to my friends, and another reminder to me that dog crates and kennels are great tools.

Dog Crates Come In Handy This Halloween

Today is often a strange day for dogs. People are everywhere, roaming the streets dressed up as anything and everything you can imagine. Many dogs get anxious on Halloween with all of this commotion. I try not to allow my dogs to bark at anything and everything, only when it is necessary. But today, they have barked more than I can remember in quite some time. Therefore, it is necessary for the dog crate to do its magic. There's nothing like taking your dogs for a nice long walk to get that pent up energy out and then letting them relax and take a nap in their crate while going to the afternoon Halloween party for your kid. I do have to admit, that was not me this Halloween. I put it off, and after the party, guess what? Barking dogs in my backyard! I always try to do what's best for my dogs and people in my family, but I did not today. I'll have to learn from the human in me. It was a sweet reminder that my dogs needs should be fulfilled every day too. I never use a crate for anything else but a positive experience. After annoying the neighbors for a couple of hours, maybe I should be the one in the dog crate.

The Biggest Little Dog in the World

Our dog Sampson is the most unique, colorful dog I have ever seen. He is a black Pomeranian with a personality unique to himself. Sampson came into my life about five years ago when I met my wife. He was six years old at the time and is now eleven years old. He is still going as strong as ever. I grew up with big, hunting dogs my whole life, so it was fun having a little dog around. He had little dog syndrome big time. He would pick fights with any dog around, especially two Rottweilers that were part of the neighborhood. He hated his dog crate and still does, but he has come a long way in his education and is now much calmer. I tell you what though, this dog has always been and is still the best retriever that I have seen. That says a lot coming from a guy that grew up with bird dogs. If only I could get Heather, our Lab, to retrieve like Sampson does. Too bad he would get lost or stuck in the marsh, or I would take him out on a bird hunt with us. Just like the Sampson in the Bible, I had better not cut his hair. It might make him actually like his little dog carrier.

Rudy and the Dog Kennel

I love writing about my dogs. It has brought make some many great memories. Some from my childhood and some from recent experiences. I remember a dog we had named Rudy. He was a German Shorthair I believe. I was very young. It was back in the first days of my memory. We had two dogs at the time. Rudy and Rowdy. Rowdy was a Brittany Spaniel. We had moved to a new house and the entire yard was not fenced off at the time. My dad had built a nice, big chain link kennel for our dogs  to be in when my parents were at work and the kids were at school. Each dog had his own kennel and dog house in the kennel. Rudy was a mischievous mutt. He figured out how to use his nose to lift the latch and open his kennel. The funny thing is he would open his kennel, let himself out, then go let Rowdy out and get in Rowdy's dog kennel and stay there. When we would get home, Rowdy would be running in the yard, Rudy would be staying like a good boy in Rowdy's kennel. The good times ended for him when my father invested in a padlock. The fun memories that dog's bring are priceless.

Had We Only Used a Dog Crate

I grew up with dogs my whole life. One of the best dogs we ever had when I was growing up was Bud. Bud was a Chocolate Lab and was to be our next great bird dog. He was one of the smartest dogs I had ever seen. It was towards the end of my high school years, and I was soon to be moving off to start my own life. My parents seemed to baby this dog more than others we had while growing up, maybe because their kids were leaving. I don't know, but he has spoiled. Bud never had to go to his dog crate or his dog kennel. In fact, I don't remember if he ever had one. Anyway, training Bud was an experience. Despite his intelligence, he was rebellious. He would roam the neighborhood freely and even chewed up one of his training videos. Of all the videos we had, that was the one he decided to chew. He was like a bad teenager. We got through all of this, and he ended up being one of the best dogs and definitely the most memorable dog of my youth. He was fabulous, but we could have eliminated some of the frustrating experiences had we only used a dog crate or dog kennel from the beginning. One of the saddest days of my life was finding out we had lost Bud to cancer. This one's for you Bud.

Clean the Dog Kennel

You've decided to purchase a nice chain link dog kennel for your dog. Now she has a safe place to stay and move about while you are gone. One thing to remember if this is you is be sure to clean the kennel. Cleanliness is very important to dogs as well as humans. You wouldn't let your kid play in his own vomit and feces would you? Too many times dog owners buy a kennel for their dog thinking it will solve everything and then leave the dog out there and pay very little attention to it. Remember that dogs have needs too. They must be exercised, socialized, and when left in an outdoor kennel, kept clean. Cleaning a dog kennel is not a very time consuming project. Please remember to clean up any feces or vomit right a way. Be sure to use pet safe products to clean your dog's new home away from home. Make sure to keep her bed clean as well. Above all, spend quality time with your outdoor dog fulfilling her needs as a dog.

Best Plastic Dog Crate

The Fashion Series Vari Kennel dog crate by Petmate is the premier plastic dog crate out there. It has been recommended by vets and animal experts around the world. The Fashion Vari Kennel combines value with preferred features such as heavy duty plastic shells, wire doors, vents and plastic wing nuts that will not corrode. Its strength and durability are far greater than any other plastic style dog crate in its class. It is Airline Approved, and comes with a 5 year manufacturer warranty. Not bad for something that is going to have a lot of wear and tear on it. It comes in a variety of sizes from small to giant which will house most any type of dog you can think of.

The Fencemaster Dog Kennel - A Brief Look

This is one treat of a dog kennel. The Fencemaster Kennel by PetSafe is a do-it-yourself dog kennel. I happens to be one of the best chain link dog kennels I have seen. It is made of rust resistant galvanized steel, very easy to put together, an d comes with an already assembled gate. There is an optional sunblock which is very nice in the hot July weather. The company claims it creates up to 15 degrees cooler temperature for your pet, and I believe it after going inside. All assembly items are included, and the instructions are simple to follow. I recommend it for pets that prefer to be outdoors. A two year warranty isn't bad either. PetSafe is one of the best names in pet products, and their chain link dog kennels definitely live up to the name.

The Pheasant Hunt Draws Near

My family has been an avid group of pheasant hunters my entire life. Many Stories have been told around the dinner table. This year one in particular enters my mind. We were out on the ditch banks hunting an open beet field with our two Brittany Spaniels, Gyp and Rowdy. This was Rowdy's first hunt. He was still a pup full of energy. We were hoping Gyp, his father, would teach him a thing or two. Rowdy was a perfect hunter. He would sniff and hunt right in front of my father's feet and then go run and hide under a beet leaf. I'd say he was right on track. The one thing he did do right, however, was jump up in his dog crate and sleep the whole ride home. We have always crated our dogs, and secured the crate in the back of the pickup truck. Nothing bothers me more when it comes to dogs than a dog freely roaming the back of a pickup truck going down the highway at full speed. Take care of your canine companion no matter if you hunt or not, and he will give you many unforgettable years. Travel safe this season and make sure your dog travels safe in his dog crate too.

Dog Crates for Any Occasion

"With so many out there, which one is best for me," is a question I hear a lot when it comes to choosing a dog crate. We have already determined that size matters. Now we will examine the different types of construction and which one is best for your "fluff ball." Whatever you do, I recommend quality over anything. A high quality crate will last a long time and withstand the wear and tear you and your dog put on it. See which one fits your needs.

1. Plastic crates are the most simple and are very durable. They are usually the most cost effective. A good plastic crate will last a long time, and many are made from recycled material reducing your pet's carbon paw print.

2. Wire crates are definitely the most durable. Many fold nicely and can be easily stored.

3. Soft sided dog crates are great for traveling as they are lightweight and store nicely. A good soft crate has a sturdy frame and is easily set up or taken down.

4. Smaller pets benefit in many ways with soft sided carriers. Many are airline approved and travel nicely under the seat in front of you. Check with the particular airline for specific rules.

Whatever it is you are looking for in a dog crate, be sure to evaluate your pet's and your needs.

Size Matters in the Dog Crate World

It's an exciting day. You just adopted a new puppy and you are bringing him home today. You have heard about crating your dog, but there are so many different sizes out there. Which dog crate will fit your new companion? Here are some basic tips that may help you out:

1. Size Matters. Choose a crate that allows Fido to stand up, turn around, and lie down. He should have 3 to 4 inches of extra room on each side.

2. Allow for Growth. Buy a crate that will accommodate your puppy's full grown size. If in question, get the larger size.

3. Divide the Crate. Crate dividers allow for adjustment of crate size and are perfect for growing pups. You can buy dividers or make a simple one out of wood.

4. What will we use it for? Choose the type of dog crate that best suits your dog's and your needs. A topic dedicated to that will be posted shortly.

5. Enjoy. Most of all enjoy the many years of companionship that a relationship with a canine can bring.

Send Her to the Dog Crate

"Heather go to your crate," is a phrase I use a lot when dealing with my daughter. Does it sound like I am being excessive with my punishment? Actually, Heather is my 2 year old Labrador Retriever, and being in her dog crate is actually relaxing for her.

Many dog owners never crate train their dogs. If done correctly crate training your dog gives her a feeling that she is in her den, making it a safe comfortable place for her to be. Obviously, one should be aware of a dog's needs and not over do crate time or associate it with a negative behavior. It is also one of the best ways to house break a dog.

Tips to keep in mind:
1. Pick the right size. Choose a crate that is big enough for your dog to stand up and turn around, but not so big she can go potty in one corner and lay down in the other.

2. Make it positive. Use treats and praise to get your pet to enter.

3. Be aware of your dog's needs. Ease into leaving your dog in her dog crate for longer periods of time, being aware that puppies especially need to go out to relieve themselves frequently.