{"id":5460,"date":"2021-05-31T17:29:21","date_gmt":"2021-05-31T17:29:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/?p=5460"},"modified":"2023-08-01T15:45:03","modified_gmt":"2023-08-01T15:45:03","slug":"how-to-keep-puppy-warm-in-crate","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/how-to-keep-puppy-warm-in-crate\/","title":{"rendered":"A Guide to Keeping Your Puppy Warm in Its Crate"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-14101bc2\"><div class=\"gb-inside-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/A-Guide-to-Keeping-Your-Puppy-Warm-in-Its-Crate-featured-image.jpg\" alt=\"puppy in a crate\" class=\"wp-image-5468\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/A-Guide-to-Keeping-Your-Puppy-Warm-in-Its-Crate-featured-image.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/A-Guide-to-Keeping-Your-Puppy-Warm-in-Its-Crate-featured-image-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/A-Guide-to-Keeping-Your-Puppy-Warm-in-Its-Crate-featured-image-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/A-Guide-to-Keeping-Your-Puppy-Warm-in-Its-Crate-featured-image-705x397.jpg 705w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<nav aria-label=\"breadcrumbs\" class=\"rank-math-breadcrumb\"><p><span class=\"last\">Home<\/span><\/p><\/nav>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading post_title_h1\" id=\"sc-post-title\">A Guide to Keeping Your Puppy Warm in Its Crate<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"post_info\"><strong><a   class=\"post-author-name\" href=\"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/author\/alex\/\">Alex Vicente<\/a><\/strong> \u2022 Updated on August 1, 2023<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"disclaimers\">\n<li><span class=\"av-icon-char\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-av_icon=\"\ue822\" data-av_iconfont=\"entypo-fontello\"><\/span> This review contains affiliate links. Read more <a href=\"\/affiliate-disclosure\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"2973\">here<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span class=\"av-icon-char\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-av_icon=\"\uf0fa\" data-av_iconfont=\"fontello\"><\/span> Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Crates are fantastic training tools for puppies, but they can often leave your little one subjected to the night\u2019s chill in its most basic form. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ensuring your puppy is warm while they\u2019re in the crate is not only essential to their comfort but their health as well. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, you want to keep them as toasty as possible any time they settle down for the night or lounge in the crate while you\u2019re away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The importance of keeping your puppy\u2019s crate at the optimal temperature can\u2019t be understated, which is why we\u2019ve created an in-depth guide to show you exactly how it\u2019s done. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Luckily, these tips and tricks are fairly simple and mostly involve proper crate placement and key pieces of equipment for a happy, healthy pup.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rank-math-toc-block\" id=\"rank-math-toc\"><h2>Table of Contents<\/h2><nav><ul><li ><a href=\"#place-your-puppys-crate-in-a-warm-room\">Place Your Puppy\u2019s Crate in a Warm Room<\/a><\/li><li ><a href=\"#raise-the-puppys-crate-off-of-the-ground\">Raise the Puppy\u2019s Crate off of the Ground<\/a><\/li><li ><a href=\"#reconsider-the-classic-wire-crate\">Reconsider the Classic Wire Crate<\/a><\/li><li ><a href=\"#give-your-puppy-plenty-of-bedding-and-blankets\">Give Your Puppy Plenty of Bedding and Blankets<\/a><\/li><li ><a href=\"#does-putting-a-blanket-over-a-dog-crate-help-keep-them-warm\">Does Putting a Blanket Over a Dog Crate Help Keep Them Warm?<\/a><\/li><li ><a href=\"#why-is-it-important-that-your-puppys-crate-is-warm\">Why Is it Important that Your Puppy\u2019s Crate is Warm?<\/a><\/li><li ><a href=\"#training-risks-of-a-cold-puppy-crate\">Training Risks of a Cold Puppy Crate<\/a><\/li><li ><a href=\"#sources\">Sources<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"place-your-puppys-crate-in-a-warm-room\">Place Your Puppy\u2019s Crate in a Warm Room<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-in-a-crate3.jpg\" alt=\"puppy in a crate\" class=\"wp-image-5474\" title=\"puppy in a crate\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-in-a-crate3.jpg 780w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-in-a-crate3-300x185.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-in-a-crate3-768x473.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-in-a-crate3-705x434.jpg 705w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Before you bring your adorable puppy home, you should have their crate all set up for them. The first step to this process is deciding in which room you\u2019re going to place your puppy\u2019s crate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Airflow is different in every home or living space, so there are bound to be certain rooms or sections that are cooler and draftier than others. These are the rooms you\u2019ll want to avoid placing your puppy\u2019s crate in to ensure they aren\u2019t shivering throughout the night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is the Ideal Temperature for My Puppy\u2019s Crate Room?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The ideal room temperature for your puppy will vary depending on their age.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Birth to one week&nbsp;<\/strong>\u2013 If you happen to have a newborn, they should be kept in temperatures of&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/ipupster.com\/whats-the-best-room-temperature-for-puppies\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"2974\">85 -90\u00b0F from days 1 \u2013 4<\/a>, as this is the most vulnerable time of their life.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>From days 7-10<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 You can gradually decrease the temperature to around 80\u00b0F and then maintain this temperature until they\u2019re about four weeks old. At this point, you can keep the room at a<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>After four weeks \u2013&nbsp;<\/strong>If your puppy has developed properly and is in good health after four weeks old, you can assume that any room that feels comfortable to you temperature-wise is probably fine for them as well. Temperatures from&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.vivint.com\/resources\/article\/best-home-room-temperature#:~:text=What%20is%20the%20standard%20room,68%20to%2076%20degrees%20Fahrenheit.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"2975\">68-72\u00b0F<\/a>&nbsp;are average for most people\u2019s living spaces and completely acceptable for your puppy.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ways to Keep Your Puppy\u2019s Crate Room Warm<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re in a house or apartment that either has no central heat or struggles to maintain a comfortable temperature, especially in the winter, it can be exceptionally difficult to keep your puppy warm while they\u2019re in the crate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Rather than buying them a whole closet full of blankets, try some of these methods to keep their room heated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Get A Certified Space Heater<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Space heaters are an efficient, quick fix to any chilly room and will do wonders for your puppy. You can either opt for a tower space heater that\u2019s easily portable or a baseboard space heater that blends better with the room\u2019s aesthetic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For your puppy\u2019s safety, make sure your space heater has features, such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Underwriters Laboratory (UL), Intertek (ETL), or Canadian Standards Association (CSA) Certifications<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Automatic shut-off<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tip-over protection<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A timer<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Adjustable thermostat<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This will help you better adjust the heater to your needs and keep it on for extended periods. Be careful leaving the heater on overnight if your puppy is in an unsupervised room. If you do this, keep the heater away from flammable objects and definitely purchase a heater with automatic shut-off, so it turns off prior to overheating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Keep the Door Closed<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>This might be a source of anxiety for those of you who like to keep an eye on your puppy, but leaving the door closed in their crate room can help it maintain a higher temperature, even when your puppy isn\u2019t tucked away inside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re truly uneasy about leaving your puppy behind closed doors, consider purchasing a pet camera or puppy monitor to help ease your mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Seal Windows and Doors<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Cold air can easily leak into your puppy\u2019s room under the door or through cracks around the windows. Checking to ensure these areas are properly sealed will help prevent the room\u2019s temperature from plummeting on cold or winter nights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Door draft stoppers are great for blocking the space under the door, and curtains can help prevent external air from entering the room through cracks around the window.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Add Some Carpets<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>They aren\u2019t as effective as a space heater, but carpets are actually fantastic at insulation and trapping heat. Therefore, you\u2019ll likely find that choosing a carpeted room or adding a rug or two, especially under their crate, can boost the room\u2019s temperature for your puppy. This can add that extra degree or two of heat to the room without using risky heaters or increasing the thermostat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"raise-the-puppys-crate-off-of-the-ground\">Raise the Puppy\u2019s Crate off of the Ground<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-in-a-crate5.jpg\" alt=\"puppy in a crate\" class=\"wp-image-5476\" title=\"puppy in a crate\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-in-a-crate5.jpg 780w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-in-a-crate5-300x185.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-in-a-crate5-768x473.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-in-a-crate5-705x434.jpg 705w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Don\u2019t worry; we aren\u2019t talking about putting crates on tables here. Heat rises in a room, so it stands to reason that the floor is the coldest place for your puppy\u2019s crate to be.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A cold floor can actually take body heat from your puppy and make it harder for them to maintain their body temperature. Raising your dog\u2019s crate a couple of inches off the floor can help prevent this and keep your puppy away from drafts.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This step can certainly pose a challenge if your puppy is in the older stages of their adolescence and already 80+ pounds in a 54\u2033 wide, 44\u2033 tall crate. Luckily, as we said, all you have to do is raise the crate a few inches from the ground for this tip to work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Crate platforms or pallets are great options for this as they will provide support throughout the entire crate\u2019s underside while keeping it off the ground. If you have a smaller crate and a lighter pup, you could probably just opt for some wooden blocks as long as you\u2019re confident they can handle the weight and provide sufficient support.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"reconsider-the-classic-wire-crate\">Reconsider the Classic Wire Crate<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-in-a-crate.jpg\" alt=\"puppy in a crate\" class=\"wp-image-5472\" title=\"puppy in a crate\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-in-a-crate.jpg 780w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-in-a-crate-300x185.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-in-a-crate-768x473.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-in-a-crate-705x434.jpg 705w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Wire crates are an incredibly common choice and typically what you find at any pet store. They are durable, easy to clean and fold up for portability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Despite the fact that wire crates are great for keeping an eye on your pup while it\u2019s safely confined, they aren\u2019t spectacular at retaining heat.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The bars and countless spaces in wire crates make it easy for your puppy\u2019s body heat to slip out and drafts or the room\u2019s cold temperature to seep in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Therefore, if keeping your puppy\u2019s crate warm is a predominant concern, you might want to opt for one of these crate-type alternatives instead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Soft-Sided Crate<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition to being extremely comfortable for your puppy, soft-sided crates are great at retaining heat as they are made with mesh walls. Although there is still some space between the mesh material for air to seep through, it is much more efficient than the metal crates with open gaps between every bar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>You might find your puppy is more comfortable in a soft-sided crate because they more closely resemble a natural den as well.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The downside of these crates is that they aren\u2019t nearly as durable as the metal crates, so if your teething puppy decides to go to town on the soft fabric, they might quickly destroy it when unsupervised. But, if their baby teeth are gone, or you\u2019re confident they\u2019ll leave their crate alone, then we highly recommend this choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Plastic Dog Crates<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re looking for a crate that\u2019s a bit more durable than the soft-sided crates, go for the plastic kennels. These crates are much more enclosed than both soft-sided and wire crates, as the plastic material creates a uniform den save for the wire door and some holes for breathing and ventilation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plastic crates are arguably the best option for a warm enclosure as the material will efficiently insulate the heat and block out any drafts or external temperatures. They are also easy to clean and optimize the den-like feel to comfort and calm your pup.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If there\u2019s any issue people have with these crates, it\u2019s that they won\u2019t fold flat like a wire or soft-sided crate, making portability a bit more difficult. The plastic could also absorb odors, so although you can easily spray off the crate, you might find that it traps your dog\u2019s scent, and you can\u2019t scrub it out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That being said, for the purposes of keeping your puppy warm at home, the plastic crate is the optimal choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Wood Crates<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Although they are certainly not as common as the previous choices, wooden crates do exist and are basically the best of both worlds between a plastic and a wire crate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>While many people probably choose wooden crates for their aesthetics, they\u2019re actually a fine choice for keeping your puppy warm as wood is a natural insulator.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Wooden crates are probably the most expensive options listed here, and they have the same odor issues as plastic crates, but they are also extremely durable and have a wide range of design options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For the purposes of keeping your puppy warm, we suggest you buy a crate with as much wood as possible to assist with heat retention. The less air that is flowing through the bars and other gaps, the better.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"give-your-puppy-plenty-of-bedding-and-blankets\">Give Your Puppy Plenty of Bedding and Blankets<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/dogs-under-a-blanket.jpg\" alt=\"dogs under a blanket\" class=\"wp-image-5470\" title=\"dogs under a blanket\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/dogs-under-a-blanket.jpg 780w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/dogs-under-a-blanket-300x185.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/dogs-under-a-blanket-768x473.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/dogs-under-a-blanket-705x434.jpg 705w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>That fluffy puppy coat can only do so much when the poor thing is kept in a cold room for hours on end. When prepping your puppy\u2019s crate, you\u2019ll want to provide them with a bunch of soft and warm materials to snuggle up and keep warm, especially overnight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are two essentials you should have in your puppy\u2019s crate to keep them warm, bedding and blankets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Crate Bedding to Keep Puppies Warm<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Regardless of the season and temperature, your puppy should have a bed inside its crate. These simple tools help them feel safe and secure in their den and can help prevent your pup from developing sores from sitting on the hard crate floor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>That being said, the crate bed is your best friend for helping your puppy maintain optimal body temperatures and staying warm. Of course, just like crates, they are not all made the same.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are four types of beds you can purchase for your pup, and you might find the best choice is to have one bed for the summer months to keep them cool and one for the winter to keep warm. Since we\u2019re focusing on minimizing the crate\u2019s chill, here\u2019s the bed types we recommend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4-Inch Traditional or Bolster Beds<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Traditional dog beds can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but when you\u2019re trying to keep your puppy warm in its cage, we recommend the thickest ones you can find.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Traditional Bed<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Opt for a traditional bed that is at least four inches thick, so it further raises your puppy off the ground<strong>.&nbsp;<\/strong>The fluffy material inside will also help insulate your pup\u2019s body heat and maintain their overall temperature for a comfortable crate session.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bolster beds<\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 Since they are always a couple of inches high, bolster beds have raised edges to trap more of your puppy\u2019s body heat and keep them calm and secure.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Just like how raising your dog\u2019s crate off the ground can help minimize the effects of drafts and chilly floors, having a thick dog bed will do the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Self-Heating Beds<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Another bed option with an exceptionally clever design is the self-heating beds. These are made with a highly reflective metal film inside that will use your puppy\u2019s body heat to help keep them warm. The material will redirect any heat, either from your puppy or other natural sources, like sunlight, and use that to keep the bed warm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Many owners like this type of bed because it looks like any other traditional or cuddler dog bed, but it keeps their puppy warm without the need for electricity<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s a great product that not only has the comfort and warmth of traditional beds but has the extra boost of the reflective material for maximum heated results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Electric Beds<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The concept of an electric dog bed is the same as electric blankets used by humans. The bed is wired and plugged into an adjacent outlet or power source, and the enclosed heating elements will heat the entire bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are certainly pros and cons to electric beds:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>So warm.<\/strong>&nbsp;They\u2019re great for cold evenings in a winter cabin where you want to give your pup a little extra warmth when they lay down.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Risky?<\/strong>&nbsp;There is always an element of risk when using products such as this since they are electrically based, and the bed\u2019s overall materials are flammable.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.akc.org\/expert-advice\/vets-corner\/heated-beds-safe-dog\/#:~:text=They%20are%20safe%20for%20pets,making%20them%20safe%20for%20canines.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"2976\">Most electric dog beds are incredibly safe<\/a>&nbsp;as long as you have acquired an efficient and reputable product. However, we recommend only plugging them in when your puppy really needs them, as leaving them on for extended periods could wear them out quicker and lead to unwanted problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Crate Blankets to Keep Puppies Warm<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-under-a-blanket.jpg\" alt=\"puppy under a blanket\" class=\"wp-image-5477\" title=\"puppy under a blanket\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-under-a-blanket.jpg 780w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-under-a-blanket-300x185.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-under-a-blanket-768x473.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-under-a-blanket-705x434.jpg 705w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Blankets are another go-to option when you\u2019re trying to keep your puppy warm and comfortable in their crate. Of course, just like beds and crates, there is a vast selection of dog blanket options you could choose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>If you just want to give your puppy some standard blankets to keep warm, we suggest purchasing those made out of fleece. They are usually extremely fluffy, soft, and warmer than microfiber blankets made from synthetic materials.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Only Use Electric Blankets Made Specifically for Small Dogs<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Another option is electric dog blankets. The key distinction to point out here is that you want to make sure the electric blanket you purchase is meant for dogs, or else it won\u2019t be safe for your puppy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Electric dog blankets are built for canines:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>They heat up slower<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>They run on lower voltage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>They have other safety features, such as chew-resistant materials.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>They also stop at a different peak temperature since normal body temperatures for a dog are&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/vcahospitals.com\/know-your-pet\/taking-your-pets-temperature#:~:text=Normal%20body%20temperature%20for%20dogs,your%20pet%20to%20your%20veterinarian.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"2977\">0 to 102.5\u00b0F<\/a>&nbsp;versus a human\u2019s at&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.webmd.com\/first-aid\/normal-body-temperature#:~:text=Normal%20Range,-Not%20everyone&#039;s%20%E2%80%9Cnormal&amp;text=For%20a%20typical%20adult%2C%20body,97.9%20F%20to%20100.4%20F.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"2978\">97 F to 99 \u00b0F<\/a>. So, do not use a human-intended electric blanket for your puppy.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Although electric dog blankets are safe, we recommend the same level of caution as the electric beds.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Make sure the product is safe and from a reputable source before you leave it heating in your puppy\u2019s crate for hours, and always test them yourself first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"does-putting-a-blanket-over-a-dog-crate-help-keep-them-warm\">Does Putting a Blanket Over a Dog Crate Help Keep Them Warm?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-in-a-crate2.jpg\" alt=\"puppy in a crate\" class=\"wp-image-5473\" title=\"puppy in a crate\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-in-a-crate2.jpg 780w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-in-a-crate2-300x185.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-in-a-crate2-768x473.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-in-a-crate2-705x434.jpg 705w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Placing a hefty blanket over your dog\u2019s crate is a fantastic way to help insulate heat and keep them warm. This method is ideal if you have a wire crate, as there are numerous gaps between the bars for easy airflow and minimal heat retention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Placing a blanket over the other crate options, such as plastic or wood, might help, but not as much as the wire crates as the other two are already made from materials that insulate heat well.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Blankets Help to Create a Dark Coziness for a Puppy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Another reason you\u2019ll want to place a blanket over your puppy\u2019s crate is that it will help create a darker, den-like atmosphere, which is their natural environment. As a result, your puppy is far more likely to feel safe and comfortable in their crate rather than seeing it as a negative space for confinement or punishment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"why-is-it-important-that-your-puppys-crate-is-warm\">Why Is it Important that Your Puppy\u2019s Crate is Warm?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppies-sleeping-in-a-crate.jpg\" alt=\"puppies sleeping in a crate\" class=\"wp-image-5471\" title=\"puppies sleeping in a crate\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppies-sleeping-in-a-crate.jpg 780w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppies-sleeping-in-a-crate-300x185.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppies-sleeping-in-a-crate-768x473.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppies-sleeping-in-a-crate-705x434.jpg 705w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Puppies are in the most vulnerable stage of their life, just like any young animal, and so you want to make sure they\u2019re as healthy and comfortable as possible right from the start.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Health Risks of a Cold Puppy Crate<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If your puppy is kept in an environment that is too cold, especially for extended periods, it can lead to a wide range of health issues, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Joint stiffness<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduced energy\/increased fatigue or lethargy<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Decreased alertness<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>General discomfort<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Increased anxiety<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Change in blood pressure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Irregular heartbeat<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Low oxygen levels in the body<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Suppressed immune system<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Increased susception to infection<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Slower wound healing (if injured)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduced digestion which could affect their gastrointestinal system<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Altered metabolism (which could lead to weight loss)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Skin irritation from low humidity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hypothermia<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>As you can see, the list is relatively extensive, but the general consensus is that your puppy doesn\u2019t like being kept in a cold room any more than you do. In fact, certain breeds are more susceptible to the cold than others, particularly small, short-haired dogs like Jack Russel Terriers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, just because your Alaskan Malamute puppy might like the snow doesn\u2019t mean their crate should be a frosty temperature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">External Temperature and Body Heat Is Very Important to a Puppy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When they\u2019re young, a puppy\u2019s immune system is still developing, and their adult coat hasn\u2019t come in yet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, even though they\u2019ll get more resilient as they age, they\u2019re still extremely vulnerable in the first year of their life and being kept in the cold can hinder their ability to fight off illnesses, develop properly, or lead to other health issues mentioned above. For optimal puppy health, be safe and keep them warm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"training-risks-of-a-cold-puppy-crate\">Training Risks of a Cold Puppy Crate<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"780\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-in-a-crate4.jpg\" alt=\"puppy in a crate\" class=\"wp-image-5475\" title=\"puppy in a crate\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-in-a-crate4.jpg 780w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-in-a-crate4-300x185.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-in-a-crate4-768x473.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/puppy-in-a-crate4-705x434.jpg 705w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s the same with humans. If your bedroom is constantly cold, you\u2019re less likely to want to spend time there. Your puppy will think the same thing about their crate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Crates need to be your puppy\u2019s safe space where they\u2019re comfortable retreating to in times of fear or anxiety when they\u2019re tired or just need some quiet alone time. You also want to make sure your puppy enjoys their crate for the times when you need to tuck them away because you can\u2019t directly supervise them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If your puppy is always cold and uncomfortable in their crate, they\u2019re more likely to be unhappy there when you\u2019re away, which could lead to undesirable behavior, such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Excessively barking\/crying<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gnawing at the bars<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rubbing the crate bars with their nose<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shredding anything inside the crate (ex. bedding)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>It is imperative that a puppy\u2019s crate is warm, comfortable, and inviting so they deem it a space that is entirely their own. That way, they\u2019re less likely to be anxious pups, and they won\u2019t mind being reasonably confined while you\u2019re away or unable to watch them. They might even enjoy it so much they\u2019ll slink away to their crate for a comfy nap of their own accord.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"sources\">Sources<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><a href=\"https:\/\/outdoordogfun.com\/how-to-keep-dog-warm-in-crate-at-night\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"2979\">Outdoor Dog Fun<\/a><br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hersindex.com\/articles\/warm-home-without-heater\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"2980\">Hers Index<\/a><br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thedogkennelcollection.com\/blog\/10-tips-keeping-your-dog-warm\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"2981\">The Dog Kennel Collection<\/a><br><a href=\"https:\/\/topdogtips.com\/types-of-crates-for-dogs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"2982\">Top Dog Tips<\/a><br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.k9ofmine.com\/best-dog-beds-for-winter\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"2983\">k9 of Mine<\/a><br><a href=\"https:\/\/topdoghealth.com\/8-ways-cold-weather-can-affect-your-dog-what-to-watch-for-and-how-to-help\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"2984\">Top Dog Health<\/a><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Find out about all of the ways to keep your puppy warm when he\/she&#8217;s lying in his\/her crate and why it&#8217;s important to do it. We also go into how&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":5468,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[8],"tags":[196,197],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5460"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5460"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5460\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5468"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5460"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5460"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pawsinsider.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5460"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}