Dog Boxes and Dog CratesDog boxes, dog crates - what's the scoop? DOG BOXESDog boxes, also known as dog truck boxes, are specially built enclosures that fit on the back of a pickup or flatbed truck. The number of boxes can range from a single box to a couple of dozen or so, depending on several factors.Often people who have teams of sled or hunting dogs want to transport their dogs in a safe manner. They may also want to use the dog boxes as temporary kennels or dog houses when they spend periods of time away from home. Most dog boxes not only have spaces for dogs, but built-in storage compartments for all the paraphernalia that needs to be taken along to dog events. Often the dog owner finds that more storage is needed than was planned for! Some dog boxes are small and portable enough that they can easily be removed and set on the ground. Other dog boxes are so large and heavy they may require a hoist and winch for removal if the pickup needs to be used in different ways at other times of the year. Since the needs of dog owners and sizes of their trucks vary, dog truck boxes are either often homemade or custom built. There is also a market in used boxes. For more information on designing and building your own dog boxes, see How To Build Dog Boxes DOG CRATESDog crates are usually designed to hold one dog. Their primary use is indoors, although they can also be used to transport dogs in a vehicle or airplane.Many trainers advocate the use of a dog crate as a training tool when you first bring home a new dog. The crate provides a den-like place for the dog to develop a sense of security. A dog crate can also be used to contain a destructive puppy, an incontinent dog or a dog that gets overwhelmed by many visitors at once. The majority of dog crates are store bought. However, since they are often made of metal and look unattractive, some dog owners choose to build one out of wood in order to match their home's furnishings. Other people choose to buy furniture that disguises the dog crate. WARNINGWith both dog boxes and crates, care needs to be taken that dogs are taken out often enough to relieve themselves and that they get adequate exercise. Used properly, they are wonderful tools in managing dogs. Used poorly, they become a cage akin to a jail cell.
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