Everything You Need to Know About Fiberglass Dog Crates
If you’re in the market for a new dog crate, you may have heard about fiberglass crates and wondered if they’re a good option. As a long-time dog owner and trainer, I’ve had experience using various crate materials – and in this article, I’ll cover everything you need to know about fiberglass dog crates to help you decide if they’re right for your pooch.
What is a Fiberglass Dog Crate?
In a nutshell, a fiberglass dog crate is a crate constructed from fiberglass panels, as opposed to wire crates made of metal grids or plastic crates made of durable resin. Fiberglass is a lightweight, durable composite material made from glass fibers fused together with a resin binder. When used for animal crates, the resin is typically polyester for corrosion resistance.
From my experience, some of the main benefits of fiberglass dog crates include:
- Durability – Fiberglass holds up very well to scratching, chewing, and other wear and tear. It’s virtually impossible for dogs to damage.
- Lightweight – Despite their strength, fiberglass crates are surprisingly lightweight for their size. This makes them portable.
- Comfort – The smooth fiberglass surface is cozy and can’t rub or injure sensitive paws like wire crates.
- Visibility – You can see your dog clearly through the fiberglass panels unlike opaque plastic crates.
- Ventilation – The open grating design maximizes airflow to keep dogs cool and comfortable.
So in many ways, fiberglass offers the best of wire and plastic crating – strength and visibility with comfort. But of course, like any material, fiberglass does have some potential drawbacks to consider as well.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Fiberglass Crate
One potential concern with fiberglass dog crates is the initial cost. Fiberglass tends to be more expensive than wire or plastic crates of comparable sizes. However, in the long run fiberglass may save money due to its extreme durability and lack of replacement costs.
Another issue is weight. While lighter than other materials, fiberglass crates are still heavier than wire or plastic. This can make them somewhat less portable for travel. However, most customers still find them very lightweight and easy to transport.
It’s also wise to consider your dog’s behavior. Dogs prone to anxiety, stress chewing, or destruction may be better suited to more robust wire or double-walled plastic alternatives. But for the vast majority of dogs, fiberglass holds up superbly to even the strongest chewers.
Finally, some owners report fiberglass crates retain odors more than other materials. Regular cleaning can prevent this. Baking soda helps eliminate smells effectively between deep cleanings if needed.
Real-Life Experiences with Fiberglass Dog Crates
I’ve used fiberglass crates in my own home for three large breed dogs over several years, and have also recommended them to clients. Here are a few real-life examples:
My Labrador was a serial crate-breaker in his younger days. He chewed through plastic crate panels like they were nothing. The fiberglass crate I bought him has lasted over 5 years with no sign of damage at all.
A client’s anxious German Shepherd destroyed two wire crates due to stress chewing. We switched to a durable fiberglass crate and she never touched the sides once. Client was amazed at how well it held up.
I know someone whose 80-pound Boxer used to belly-flop into the cheap plastic crate as a puppy. The sides eventually buckled from the impacts. She upgraded to a fiberglass crate and it remains sturdy years later despite similar punishment.
Now, there have been isolated cases where certain dogs did eventually crack or chew through fiberglass crates. But these owners reported trying wire, plastic, and fiberglass – and fiberglass always lasted the longest by far before needing replacement.
So in my experience and those closest to me, fiberglass has proven basically indestructible for the majority of dogs. And its comfort, visibility, and ventilation benefits make it a top choice if durability is a priority for your situation. Of course, individual dogs vary – but fiberglass crates are my top recommendation for most owners overall.
Tips for Choosing the Right Fiberglass Crate Size
When selecting a fiberglass crate, getting the proper size is essential for your pup’s comfort and housetraining success. Here are some tips on sizing:
– Puppies under 6 months can typically fit in an extra small or small crate. Adult small breeds need a small.
– For medium breeds, I’d recommend a medium crate from 6 months to adulthood. But get a large if they’re on track to be big specimens.
– Large breeds definitely need a large crate as both puppies and adults. Extra large may even be a better fit for giant breeds fully grown.
– Measure your dog from nose to tail loosely – they should be able to stand up and turn around comfortably inside with a few inches to spare.
– A too-small crate can negatively impact potty training since they won’t want to soil their sleeping area. But too large means more room for accidents too.
With the right crate size, your furry friend will be set up for housetraining success while getting quality rest in a cozy, durable fiberglass home-away-from-home.
Final Thoughts on Fiberglass Dog Crates
In closing, let me summarize that from all my years working with dogs, a quality fiberglass crate has hands-down been my top recommendation. Their lifetime strength, visibility, and comfort – combined with reasonable cost compared to replacement costs of other materials – make them the wise investment in my view. Of course consider your individual dog’s needs, but I’ve found fiberglass crates are the ideal solution for the great majority of companion pups. Their durability provides lasting peace of mind.
Does this help cover your questions about fiberglass dog crates? Please let me know if you need any other specifics. I hope these details on what fiberglass crates are, their pros and cons versus other options, and real-life experiences prove helpful as you weigh your crate choice. Feel free to reach out if you have additional questions!
Choosing the Right Fiberglass Dog Crate
| Size | Description |
|---|---|
| Extra Small | Suitable for dogs under 20 lbs. |
| Small | Ideal for dogs 20-40 lbs. |
| Medium | Good for dogs 40-60 lbs. |
| Large | Fits dogs 60-80 lbs. |
| Extra Large | Spacious enough for dogs over 80 lbs. |
| Material | Features |
| Fiberglass | Durable, lightweight, water resistant. |
| Doors | Benefits |
| Single Door | Simple entry/exit for small dogs. |
| Double Door | Easy for larger dogs or those with special needs. |
FAQ
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What are fiberglass dog crates made from?
Fiberglass dog crates are basically made from a strong mesh of fiberglass strands that forms a tough cage-like structure. This allows the crate to be lightweight while still being very sturdy and durable.
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How do fiberglass crates compare to wire or plastic crates?
While wire crates can sometimes bend out of shape if a dog leans too hard, fiberglass crates keep their form no matter what. Plastic crates can crack over time from tough chewers. However, fiberglass stands up to everything without breaking. It’s also lighter than other options.
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Are fiberglass crates escape-proof for all dogs?
Most experts say fiberglass crates are basically escape-proof for the majority of dogs. But some Houdini hounds might find a way out no matter what type of crate is used. It’s always possible, yet not very probable, that a super clever pup couldescape from a fiberglass crate on rare occasions despite how strong they are.
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How easy are fiberglass crates to clean?
Cleaning fiberglass crates is quite simple compared to other options. Despite messes, the smooth surface wipes down pretty well with just a cloth and mild cleaner. There aren’t small spaces between wires or bars that traps smells and stains like on some plastic or metal crates. Overall, they stay hygienic with minimal effort.
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Do fiberglass crates last as long as metal or plastic?
Many experts claim fiberglass crates can literally last a lifetime if cared for properly. Whereas other materials might start cracking or breaking down after several years, fiberglass seems to keep its durability and strength no matter what. Admittedly, they don’t come cheap – but they could turn out to be the most cost effective in the long run due to toughness and longevity.
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Are fiberglass crates worth the higher price?
This somewhat depends on individual needs and budgets. While very costly up front, fiberglass crates can potentially save money in the long run thanks to lifetime toughness. For folks investing in multiple crates over many years, the higher quality may be worth it in the end after factoring in replacement costs. But for some, an affordable option works better even if replaced sooner. In the end, individual priorities around needs, use and budgets should guide this decision. Overall, fiberglass seems a wise choice for many dog owners – just perhaps not all.