Dog Crate Covers Buyer’s Guide
To help you choose between the above best dog crate covers and understand how they stand out from the competition, consider the following points as you choose a cover.
Compatibility with Your Crate
The very first thing you need to do is make sure that your chosen crate cover will fit your canine’s kennel.
Size
Ideally, the cover should fit the crate as closely as it can. If the cover is too large, it will let light, air, and the elements in. If it is too small, you will not be able to use it. Pay attention to the dimensions of a crate cover before buying it and confirm the measurements of your canine’s crate.
Open Panels
The other aspect of compatibility to pay attention to is where your crate opens. Some crates open from the front, others from the side, and yet others from both. Choose a crate cover that will let you easily open and close the door on your crate. Most of the top crate covers will be versatile enough to work with most kennel designs, but you should still confirm.
Materials
Take a few moments to consider the type of material that the cover is made from. Some of the common options include Oxford cloth, polyester, and polyester/cotton blends. Some covers will also have additional coatings, such as Teflon or PVC.
The material should provide the basic functionality you want from the cover, whether that is blocking out light or reducing sound somewhat.
Durability
Opt for a material that is known for its durability. You can confirm this by reading reviews in addition to the claims of the manufacturer. All of the crates on the above list use durable materials, so you do not need to confirm this yourself.
Weatherproofing
If you plan on using the crate cover outside, confirm that the material is waterproof and windproof. Most are windproof but not all are waterproof. This latter feature is essential, as without a waterproof crate cover, the interior of the crate could get wet in the rain. In the best case scenario, your canine would be uncomfortable. In the worst case, your pup could get sick.
If you will put the crate and cover outside and live in an area with cold winters, consider a cover with extra insulation. This will cost a little more but it will help keep your canine warm in the cooler months.
Ventilation
Take the time to confirm that your chosen crate cover offers enough ventilation for your canine to breathe freely. Ventilation is also key to your pooch’s comfort as it prevents stale air. In hot weather, ventilation can also keep the temperature inside the crate at a reasonable level.
Breathable Material
Ventilation starts with material that is breathable and lightweight. Many manufacturers specify that their material is breathable, but not all do. All of the crate covers on this list have breathable material, so this is not a concern if you choose a recommended product.
Window and Foldable Panels
Additional ventilation comes via the panels. All the best crates will have at least one foldable panel, complete with a way to secure it in place whether it is open or closed. Some crates have more than one foldable panel. This lets you adjust the amount of ventilation (and light and visibility) inside the crate depending on the preferences of your furry friend and you.
Look for covers with window panels as well. These can be smaller than a side or a complete side and will feature mesh or a similar material. The window panels increase visibility and ventilation while the mesh keeps bugs out, so your canine companion remains comfortable.
Care and Maintenance
Do not forget to considering caring for and maintaining the cover. Most buyers will want this to be as simple as possible.
Cleaning
Most covers will require cleaning in one of two ways: either by spot cleaning with a brush or wet towel or by going in the washing machine and dryer. Neither of these options is better than the other; it depends on your personal preferences.
Some people prefer the ease of spot cleaning with a brush, as there is no need to remove the cover to do so. This method also lets you clean just the parts of the material that need it. Others prefer the ability to just remove the cover and throw it in their washing machine for minimal effort. Think about whether you have a preference, including whether you want to have to remove the cover for cleaning.
Installation
Speaking of removing the cover, maintaining dog crate covers typically requires the ability to easily install and remove them. Confirm that your chosen cover is simple to install and to remove. Pay attention to the features it has to secure the material to your dog’s crate, so it does not move around or come off.
Appearance
Of course, you will also want to think about the appearance of the crate cover, if this matters to you. Think about where you will use the crate cover and the décor of that area. Some people prefer solid neutral colors like black that can blend into any décor. Others prefer fun geometric prints or patterns that bring some life to the cover and crate.
Extra Features
Some crates will also offer additional features, which you may or may not want. Most of these are helpful when available but the average pet owner does not need the majority of the features.
Pockets
One example would be pockets. Some crate covers have convenient storage pockets so you can easily store toys or even treats right next to the crate. This is a good option for those who put the crate in an area that is low on storage.
Top Panel that Opens
Some kennel covers have a top panel that partially or fully opens. If you have one of the rare crates with a top door, then this is a must. If not, it is simply another way to add ventilation. The feature is, however, convenient for those who move the crate around regularly and want to be able to reach its handle without removing the full cover.
Foam or Padding
Most crate covers are just the cover themselves. Some, however, will include bonus features, such as foam or padding that slips on top of the metal bars of the kennel to give your canine comfort. You can easily take care of this yourself by slipping a dog bed inside the kennel if you do not choose a cover that includes the feature.
