Crate rest
What is crate rest?
Crate rest, also known as cage rest, is a method of enforced rest for dogs to aid their recovery from any number of medical conditions. Some of the more common conditions that require crate rest include recovery from surgery or a soft tissue injury, as well as the treatment of more specific conditions that require complete rest including intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), saddle thrombus, osteomyelitis, and Legg-Calve-Perthes (LCP) disease.
This guide to crate rest provides practical advice and recommendations based on our independent survey of over 60 dog owners from the USA, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil and South Africa, all of whom recently completed a crate rest with their dog. We cover recommendations on the best type of dog crates for crate rest, how to set up your crate, essential items to combat boredom and anxiety, as well as advice and words of encouragement from others who have completed crate rest for their dog.
Your dog’s veterinarian or neurologist will advise you of all requirements specific for your dog. This guide to crate rest is not a substitute for their specialist advice. It is critical that you strictly adhere to their instructions.
This guide to crate rest provides practical advice and recommendations based on our independent survey of over 60 dog owners from the USA, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil and South Africa, all of whom recently completed a crate rest with their dog. We cover recommendations on the best type of dog crates for crate rest, how to set up your crate, essential items to combat boredom and anxiety, as well as advice and words of encouragement from others who have completed crate rest for their dog.
Your dog’s veterinarian or neurologist will advise you of all requirements specific for your dog. This guide to crate rest is not a substitute for their specialist advice. It is critical that you strictly adhere to their instructions.
Crate rest treatment for IVDD
In addition to the useful tips and advice offered by our survey respondents, we have collected a lot of useful information on recovery of IVDD in dogs, which has highlighted the benefits of crate rest and the importance of strict enforcement.
Around 90% of the people surveyed had dogs that were recovering from an injury associated with intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). Unsurprisingly, most of the dogs were Dachshunds (50%) and French Bulldogs (20%), two of the breeds more commonly affected by IVDD. The average age of dogs at the time of their first IVDD episode was between 4 to 5 years old, with French Bulldogs being slightly younger than Dachshunds.
Conservative treatment (IVDD crate rest) alone was the most common course of treatment for dogs with less severe, Grade 1 or 2 injuries. Surgical treatment followed by IVDD crate rest was increasingly more common for dogs with higher grade injuries. For more information on IVDD Grades see Dachshund IVDD.
Around 90% of the people surveyed had dogs that were recovering from an injury associated with intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). Unsurprisingly, most of the dogs were Dachshunds (50%) and French Bulldogs (20%), two of the breeds more commonly affected by IVDD. The average age of dogs at the time of their first IVDD episode was between 4 to 5 years old, with French Bulldogs being slightly younger than Dachshunds.
Conservative treatment (IVDD crate rest) alone was the most common course of treatment for dogs with less severe, Grade 1 or 2 injuries. Surgical treatment followed by IVDD crate rest was increasingly more common for dogs with higher grade injuries. For more information on IVDD Grades see Dachshund IVDD.
Crate rest length
Depending on the condition that your dog is recovering from, your veterinarian may set a period of crate rest anywhere from a week or two, up to 8 weeks or more.
Our survey found that 8 weeks was the most commonly prescribed length of crate rest for dogs recovering from IVDD. Almost all people (92%) completed the fully prescribed rest period.
Our survey found that 8 weeks was the most commonly prescribed length of crate rest for dogs recovering from IVDD. Almost all people (92%) completed the fully prescribed rest period.
Recovery rates
Crate rest can be an effective treatment with good recovery rates when you carefully follow the advice of your veterinarian or neurologist.
Half of all people surveyed said that they strictly enforced crate rest as recommended by their vet. Of the remaining half, most reported only some moments of weakness. We found that after completing crate rest, 85% of all dogs diagnosed with IVDD grades 1 to 4 recovered between 75% to 100% of their full function. The greatest recovery was typically reported by those who strictly enforced crate rest.
Evidence that crate rest and tough love works!
Half of all people surveyed said that they strictly enforced crate rest as recommended by their vet. Of the remaining half, most reported only some moments of weakness. We found that after completing crate rest, 85% of all dogs diagnosed with IVDD grades 1 to 4 recovered between 75% to 100% of their full function. The greatest recovery was typically reported by those who strictly enforced crate rest.
Evidence that crate rest and tough love works!
Choosing the right dog crate
There are many different dog crates or cages available on the market and it is important that you get the right crate for your dog and your home.
Dog crates being used for crate rest should be strong enough to withstand chews, bites and knocks, keeping your recovering dog contained and safe. It should be big enough for your dog to sit upright and stand in, turn around and have enough room for a water bowl and bedding.
We have developed the following quick reference guide for you to download.
Dog crates being used for crate rest should be strong enough to withstand chews, bites and knocks, keeping your recovering dog contained and safe. It should be big enough for your dog to sit upright and stand in, turn around and have enough room for a water bowl and bedding.
We have developed the following quick reference guide for you to download.
Crate or pen?
There are two main styles of containment to choose from; crate or pen. There was close to a 50:50 split between the two styles based on the feedback from surveyed dog owners. Your vet will discuss whether one suits you and your dog’s needs better, but ultimately there are pro’s and con’s to both styles:
Enclosed crates - with a side gate are good for dogs who can get themselves in and out unassisted, or larger dogs that may knock over a pen. Crates are generally more sturdy, suitable for active dogs and known escape artists. They can be easily covered at night to encourage dogs to settle and are more compact than a pen (better suited for smaller spaces). Dog crates are more compact and easier to move between rooms than a pen. However, crates may not suit owners who have difficulty getting down to ground level.
An open topped pen - is ideal for smaller, low energy dogs and incontinent dogs that need bedding changed regularly. Pens were more commonly recommended for highly anxious dogs where the confined space of a crate can add to stress levels. Pens can be adjusted in size by removing panels, which is often recommended to minimize movement.
An open topped pen - is ideal for smaller, low energy dogs and incontinent dogs that need bedding changed regularly. Pens were more commonly recommended for highly anxious dogs where the confined space of a crate can add to stress levels. Pens can be adjusted in size by removing panels, which is often recommended to minimize movement.
Material type
The next decision is material type; metal, plastic or canvas. The advice here from the people surveyed was clearer. Over 60% of people recommended buying a metal dog crate or pen, making it by far the most recommended type of material.
Interestingly, most people who initially purchased a soft dog crate or pen would not recommend this style unless used in combination with a sturdier metal pen.
Interestingly, most people who initially purchased a soft dog crate or pen would not recommend this style unless used in combination with a sturdier metal pen.
Combinations
For dogs that required longer periods of crate rest many people chose to have two confined areas; typically, an enclosed metal crate in the bedroom and an open metal pen in the living area.
Another common option was a combination of either a metal pen or crate in the living area and a dog stroller, so they could be mobile around the house, including the bedroom.
Another common option was a combination of either a metal pen or crate in the living area and a dog stroller, so they could be mobile around the house, including the bedroom.
Most recommended dog crates
Our survey asked people which of the six main styles of dog crate they would recommended for crate rest. If you are asking yourself which dog crate to buy, the following graphic show the results of our survey. Read on for further details on the top two dog crates.
Metal dog crate
A folding metal dog crate or metal dog cage was the most recommended style for crate rest.
We think that the MidWest i Crate Dog Crate Starter Kit is the best all-in-one option if you're starting crate rest for the first time. It includes a sturdy, fully enclosed crate that is collapsible for storage. The large doors allow for easy access for your dog and make bedding changes easier.
When ordered through Amazon the MidWest iCrate comes with two dog bowls that can be secured to the inside wall of the crate as well as a cover which can be very helpful when trying to calm an anxious dog. A dog bed is included in the deal but we would recommend replacing it with a higher quality orthopedic (memory foam) bed without sides (see below).
When ordered through Amazon the MidWest iCrate comes with two dog bowls that can be secured to the inside wall of the crate as well as a cover which can be very helpful when trying to calm an anxious dog. A dog bed is included in the deal but we would recommend replacing it with a higher quality orthopedic (memory foam) bed without sides (see below).
Metal pen
A metal dog pen or dog enclosure was a close runner up in popularity to the standard crate style shown above.
If you decide that an open-top style dog playpen is for you, we recommend the Best Pet Playpen which is a more robust design and it also allows you to reduce the total size of the pen. After a metal crate, this was the second most popular choice.
An open-topped pen has the benefit of allowing the owner to lift their small dog in and out more easily and has been recommended for dogs that are more anxious and are not used to enclosed crates. Be sure to consider the type of flooring that you will set the pen on and whether a non-slip mat will be required.
An open-topped pen has the benefit of allowing the owner to lift their small dog in and out more easily and has been recommended for dogs that are more anxious and are not used to enclosed crates. Be sure to consider the type of flooring that you will set the pen on and whether a non-slip mat will be required.
Dog pram
Several people recommended using a dog stroller or dog pram in combination with a regular crate. We recommend the Pet Gear Dog Stroller when using a stroller/pram for crate rest purposes as it is one of the few fully enclosed designs with a low centre of gravity. A dog pram should only be used under supervision and are therefore not replacements for a traditional crate which are a much safer option when you need to leave the house.
A sturdy, enclosed dog pram can be used as a mobile crate that can be more easily taken with you as you move around the house during the day or in the bedroom at night. Typically, dog prams that are suitable for crate rest can be more expensive. Cheaper options should be avoided altogether. A lower cost alternative for smaller dogs would be a large washing basket with bedding.
A sturdy, enclosed dog pram can be used as a mobile crate that can be more easily taken with you as you move around the house during the day or in the bedroom at night. Typically, dog prams that are suitable for crate rest can be more expensive. Cheaper options should be avoided altogether. A lower cost alternative for smaller dogs would be a large washing basket with bedding.
I cannot stress enough how much of a game changer the stroller was. All the entertainment in the world can't compare to even just a few minutes outside in fresh air for a dog who's confined to a crate for several months. Benji perked up immensely.
Borrowed a stroller to use from week 3/4 onwards so she could go on walks/fresh air and be with us in other rooms of the house it helped greatly when she started getting restless.
Setting up the crate
Your dog will spend many hours in the crate so it needs to be as pleasant a space as possible, typically containing a large soft bed, draught-blocking blankets, food, water and toys.
Where to set up the crate
You will want to set up your crate in a central part of the house where your dog can see what is going on and feel like they are not being excluded from daily life. This will often be somewhere between the kitchen and the lounge room.
Essential items
Memory foam bed. A high quality memory foam dog bed (also known as an orthopaedic dog bed) was recommended by 70% of people surveyed. Key considerations when choosing a bed include:
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Non-slip mats. Non-slip mats are critical for both crates and cages. Crates come with a hard plastic base that is slippery and can worsen your dog’s injuries. Vets strongly suggest that a higher grip material be used as flooring reduces the risk of trauma caused by slipping paws and also encourage neurological patients to place their paws in a more coordinated way.
Smooth surfaces such as tiles, metal, newspaper, linoleum, wood, laminate or plastic sheeting are unsuitable because they do not provide enough grip. A rubber utility mat should be added to the base of crates before setting up bedding. Larger non-slip pads should be used as the base of an open top pen. |
Adjusting to crate rest
In most cases your dog will be coming home after a period of hospitalisation, often on medications that will make your dog tired and lethargic. This can help with the initial adjustment to being crated.
Almost all dogs adjust to being on crate rest within 1 to 2 weeks. Unsurprisingly, dogs who had previously been crate trained reported the least issues and the quickest adjustment.
Just over 50% of people took time off work over the first few weeks to ensure their dog had adjusted to crate rest before leaving them for periods of time.
Almost all dogs adjust to being on crate rest within 1 to 2 weeks. Unsurprisingly, dogs who had previously been crate trained reported the least issues and the quickest adjustment.
Just over 50% of people took time off work over the first few weeks to ensure their dog had adjusted to crate rest before leaving them for periods of time.
Your dog's personality can be a big indicator of how well they will adjust to crate rest:
- Skittish, nervous and submissive personalities adjust best to crate rest.
- Boisterous and dominant dog also adjusted fairly well.
- Anxious dogs and dogs with a history of separation anxiety had the most problems adjusting.
Night routines
We found that three quarters of all people surveyed said that their dog regularly slept with them in their bed before crate rest. During crate rest it is recommended that your dog sleep in their crate to remove the risk of them fall or get knocked during the night. Understandably, this can make the shift to sleeping in a crate at night difficult.
Despite this, over 80% of people followed advice and enforced sleeping in the crate at night. Interestingly, those who allowed their dog to continue to sleep in their bed rather than in the crate reported the same overall level of difficulty adjusting to crate rest. Given the risks involved with sleeping in your bed this may be something worth reconsidering.
However, we know this can be easier said than done, so here are some of the common tips for managing the bedtime routine for particularly troublesome dogs:
Despite this, over 80% of people followed advice and enforced sleeping in the crate at night. Interestingly, those who allowed their dog to continue to sleep in their bed rather than in the crate reported the same overall level of difficulty adjusting to crate rest. Given the risks involved with sleeping in your bed this may be something worth reconsidering.
However, we know this can be easier said than done, so here are some of the common tips for managing the bedtime routine for particularly troublesome dogs:
- A soothing night time routine to indicate bedtime (a treat in the crate, lowered light, relaxing aromas).
- Initially sleeping next to the crate or pen so your dog can gradually adjust to the new sleeping arrangement.
- Setting up a second crate or stroller for use next to your bed at night.
Managing boredom and anxiety
During your dog’s mandated rest time for recovery, movements will be restricted, but their mind will still need stimulation.
Here are the most commonly recommended activities and tools to help alleviate boredom and anxiety.
Here are the most commonly recommended activities and tools to help alleviate boredom and anxiety.
Training. Teaching tricks and games appropriate for their physical restrictions will help alleviate boredom.
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Puzzles. You can use food and puzzle toys to slow down eating and provide mental stimulation. One thing you don’t want to do is offer any toy or puzzle that encourages your dog to move their body in ways they should be avoiding. We think the HETOO treat ball is worth checking out - similar to a regular treat ball but limited in its movement.
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Licki mat. Several people reported that likimats were a great way to provide entertainment and mental stimulation. It is important to discuss the suitability of a likimat with your vet before use.
We recommend this design with a suction cap so that it can be mounted in a convenient position. |
Calming sprays. A calming phermamone spray, such as Adaptil, can help anxious dogs adjust to their time in the crate.
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Slow feeder bowl. A slow feeder bowl is a great way to prolong feeding and keep your dog's mind busy. This non-slip version is recommended to keep the bowl stable while eating.
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Snuffle mat. A snuffle mat may be suitable for some dogs. Hiding treats or kibble in the mat will keep your dog entertained. This small style will be better suited to the limited space of a crate.
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Advice and support
Don’t underestimate the power of “calming dog music” on YouTube! Just search it and you will find hours and hours....it made a huge difference for us! Also, combine it with some calming pheromones. There are several different kinds of products that have these pheromones, and when combined with the music, I found them to be a lifesaver! Steven Randolph
I agree with the stroller suggestion. My girl screamed non stop and managed to get out of every crate, pen, etc we tried her in. We gave her Trazadone, that didn't help. She was doing more harm than good trying to escape. Finally, got a stroller. She laid down in it and went to sleep and I just wheeled her room to room with me. Of course, you can't leave them unattended in a stroller but at least we both got some relief! Terri Lindley
Keep him close to you. Keep petting him and loving on him although he is in the crate. The idea is to restrict activity, but you don’t have to restrict the attention. Take the crate from room to room the best you can also. Good luck! Jewell Marie Wilder
We brought a pen for Bundy and he was fine in it as we put it right in the middle of the living room next to the sofa. One of us slept next to him on the sofa while he recovered. Really do recommend a pen as it’s not as enclosed as a crate.
The good thing with the pen was if he was upset or distressed then one of us could sit in the pen with him and stroke him to calm him down. We just searched dog pens on amazon and ordered on next day delivery then padded it out with Asda’s own pillows that are like £3 for two and lots of blankets and throws from primark. Emma Young
Albert has never been crated and struggled the first time round. For his second episode, I used baby travel cots and he settled really quickly. Good luck X. Julie Hall
Sometimes they cope with a 'Croft Freedom Playpen' better than a cage. Ann Shelton
Further information
If you happen to be in the UK and are in need of a crate or other supplies during your crate rest period, check in with https://m.facebook.com/Dedicatedtodachshunds/ for a free short term loan.