Often, dogs that were not crate trained wind up in a heavy duty dog crate. Some larger or heavier dogs may have simply pushed their way out of weaker dog crates. Heavy duty dog crates are often the choice of professional breeders and handlers and are available in a range of price, door and finish options. These crates can also serve as an excellent place for puppy litters to live and play if weather does not permit outside play.

The Level 2 Heavy Duty Dog Crate

There are two types of heavy duty dog crates. First is the Level 2 dog crate. The Level 2 crate has tubular steel frame. Heavy 20 gauge steel wire completes the crate on all sides, bottom and top. The level 2 heavy duty dog crate is somewhat lower in cost than the strongest of the heavy duty dog crates, the Level 3 crate. The Level 2 crate should handle most situations quite well but you know your animal so the final decision is always up to you. Some suppliers say they are offering a "heavy duty dog cage" however it is simply a wire type dog crate made from heavier gauge wire.

The Level 3 Heavy Duty Dog Crate

The Level 3 crate is made completely of tubular steel including the frame and all sides as well as the top and bottom areas. This crate is made for the strongest, most aggressive, most difficult of dogs or other animals. While manufacturers cannot guarantee the crate will hold what you put in it, it is easy to see why a Level 3 crate works for the strongest of dogs and other animals. These crates will last for many years and will most likely be the last crate your dog will ever need.

Mobility

These are larger dog crates. They can be put inside or outside the home. All heavy duty dog crates should have 4 lockable wheel mobility. They say the only thing you can count on is change so be ready by making sure your product has 4 lockable wheels on it.

Metal Pans

A removable metal pan is a must no matter what size dog crate you purchase. It is more important with heavy duty crates especially if you have a chewer. If you have or have ever had a chewer you know what can happen to anything, dog crates included, should the chewer manage access to items, especially plastic items. Plastic pans can warp and crack in a relatively short time period. Be sure your crate comes with a floor grate as well.

Doors

Good heavy duty dog crates have 2 to 3 doors including accessibility from the top. Some have split doors for easy feeding and access to items inside the crate. One never knows how aggressive any particular animal may be. You will find a split-door very handy especially with hard to handle animals. The small door at the bottom of the front door area is made for safely inserting food and water for the occupants.

Colors

Today, heavy duty dog crates come in a choice of colors including black, pink and blue.

Sizes

You can find the tubular steel style crates available in 36", 42" and 48" sizes both in Level 2 and Level 3 strength designations.

Some people get the idea that a dog crate, regular or heavy duty is akin to "jail." I assume they feel this way because they have never had an overly aggressive dog, loveable as they might be, a large dog that was not crate trained as a puppy or a lawsuit resulting from a dog bite. Worse yet, they have never had a family dog put down because of a dog bite.

Remember also that dogs are "den" animals and many enjoy their own special place for rest and security. Dogs are like children. Sometimes we have to do things that are for their own good, their safety and perhaps their education to improve their quality of life and quality of life for all who come in contact with them.

Choose a supplier that has a full line of both Level 2 and Level 3 dog crates when shopping for your heavy duty dog crate.