[mdgirl]

I just adopted a golden retriever mix (Bella) from the SPCA yesterday. I got a cage that said it's for dogs up to 70 lbs. (Bella is 40 lbs.), but I worry that it's too small. Her tail is hanging through the bars when she stretches out but she seems to be able to stand OK.

What do you think?

[Rottie]

Originally Posted by mdgirl

I just adopted a golden retriever mix (Bella) from the SPCA yesterday. I got a cage that said it's for dogs up to 70 lbs. (Bella is 40 lbs.), but I worry that it's too small. Her tail is hanging through the bars when she stretches out but she seems to be able to stand OK.

What do you think?

Well the cage looks OK, does`nt seem cramped from your pictures.

I have a cage for my Rottie which used to be for my Alsatian. both are big dogs. My attitude to cages is that they serve a vital role in the home when the dog is unattended and likely to do damage or perhaps at night. But I do not like them. Caged animals, especially domestic pets are a big NO-NO with me, except of course birds, reptiles and small mammals. They are excellent for puppies.

The dog should not be left in them for too long. No cage is over spacious and the dog will not be happy over long periods and may get muscular cramp.

We use the cage for "emergencies", visitors etc, but as the dog grows older, it should be considered as part of the family and let loose in the home.

[camilaimac]

It seems ok but i don't like keeping my pet in cage.

[lange]

I don't use cages but I do use crates. I think crates are wonderful but only when used correctly. Any abuse of its use would then make it a cage to me.

If your housetraining still then you want the crate to be big enough for the dog to stand up and turn around in only. If the dogs is done housetraining then there is no harm in giving him more room. But all in all the crate looks big enough to me.

[lizzieG]

I use a crate for my younger dog too- he is about 40 lbs and i bought the largest one i could find. your dog should be ok if she is not crated for too long- but if you are using it any time you are gone (at work, etc) i think it may be a bit small. It looks as though she may have a hard time turning around/stretching all the way out. i would check on craigslist for a large cheap one!

[Yogi]

The fact is a crate should be just large enough to stand, lay down and turn around in. Larger than this only provides an area to defecate which is why this standard is the standard used, whether crated while at work or for an hour.