Advantages And Disadvantages Of A Dog Kennel

Like many dog items, portable dog kennels come in a variety of shapes and sizes to accommodate the needs of many sizes of dogs. The most basic of this kind of kennel is the exercise pen. The exercise pen is a "drop bottom" pen that usually consists of six to eight lightweight wire panels connected by hinges. One or more of these panels may contain a door. Some "ex-pens" have one pair of panels that are not connected by hinges. These panels are often connected by a clip or clasp that permits them to come apart, acting as a rough door. Having the gap between this pair of panels also permits two ex-pens to be combined into one, creating more space for the dogs inside. These pens generally come with panels that are two feet high, three feet high, and four feet high. Ex-pens are frequently used by dog show exhibitors to give their dogs a little freedom when they go to the bathroom and may be used by breeders to keep track of puppies. Ex-pens are easily put up and taken down in minutes, fold flat, and store with little difficulty in the back of a car or under a bed.

As wonderful as dog exercise pens can be, however, they are not the ideal portable dog kennel for every situation. Ex-pens are not very sturdy and can blow down in even moderate winds. A truly dedicated medium-sized or large dog might even be able to knock one down. For situations in which an ex-pen would not be appropriate, a portable dog kennel can be ideal. These lightweight chain-linked kennels are more compact than the dog kennel kits that might be built as permanent enclosures. Typically, they have a smaller footprint, ranging from 6 feet by 4 feet to 6 feet by 6 feet. In addition, they are not as tall, having only 4-foot-tall panels, rather than 6-foot-tall panels. These kennels are simple to put together and take apart in under an hour, using only a pair of pliers.

One disadvantage to this kind of kennel is that it is a bit bulky to travel with, despite its promise of being "portable." The dimensions of the sides are the dimensions of the panels that you will need to find space for. In addition, although they are billed as being light in weight, these panels are still made of steel; the weight they might add to your car and the strength needed to lift them out does not make them "portable" for everyone.

Neither ex-pens nor portable kennels are suitable as permanent enclosures. When traveling with your pet, both on the road and after you have arrived at your destination, both of these pens can provide a space for your dog.

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