crates

Question
HI. I just got a 1 year old Boxer. He has had a yard up until now though he was in the house some too. He is the sweetest dog, doesnt chew, jump, bark and is mostly housebroken. The only problem is he escapes his crate and yesterday went to the bathroom in the house. We bought a wire crate with a divider, a comfy bed and have a kong in there. We tried to make it a happy place, and he is ok in it when we are right beside him. Actually slept on the floor beside him the first night and he was ok. He has escaped everytime we have left him (5), have ziptied where he got out, but now has broked the wires and cut himself. My question is should we get him a plastic crate, or leave him in the bathroom? I really just dont want him to get hurt or be traumatized. Please let me know the best option. Thanks.

Answer
I'm not sure of the crate set up you are referring to... but I would suggest the extra large wire rod cage that you put together yourself (3 sides, a top, and a door) and the door has a latch that can not be opened by the dog.

Plastic ties can cause he to choke, and plastic is chewable and unsafe.

Do not keep a Boxer outside. They can not handle heat or cold. They are inside dogs only. Climate control.

If you have to "crate" him when not at home- check Online for the black rod/wired cage with a slide out plastic bottom (slides in the bottom of the cage but is not the bottom of the cage) and with the top and the door. Extra large for a Boxer.

See if that doesn't fit the bill. I raised puppies in mine for 3 months (except when out playing in the house).

Take him outside to pee and poop before putting him in the cage, and immediately when you let him out.

Also, Boxers are sociable, and think this is funny- but turn the tv on for him to keep him company while in the cage.