If you have a dog, you probably have a crate. But what do you do when your dog hates the crate? Here are a few alternatives.

Dogs have a way of getting into mischief when they are left alone which is why many dog owners choose to crate their dogs. Having a crate handy is also important when you’re housetraining a puppy or when your dog is sick, and you need to limit his mobility.

Unfortunately, some dogs just hate being in the crate no matter how hard you work to make it comfortable. If your dog simply can’t stand being crated, keep reading to learn about some creative crate alternatives he might find more tolerable.

Try These Alternatives to Crating Your Dog

When you need to keep your dog contained but you don’t want to use a crate, what do you do? Here are some of our favorite crate alternatives:

• Dog Gates – Using a dog gate is a simple way to keep your dog confined to one room without confining him to the limited space of an actual crate.
• Puppy Playpens – If you want to give your dog more space than a crate allows while still keeping him confined, consider a puppy playpen.
• Doggy Daycare – No dog likes being left alone all day every day. If you work long hours and can’t get home during the day, consider enrolling your dog in doggy daycare so he can get some exercise and mental stimulation instead of spending the day alone.
• Closed Doors – If you have a spare bathroom or a small bedroom, you might be able to simply confine your dog to that space instead of putting him in a crate.

If you’re looking for the perfect crate alternative for your dog, consider each of the options above. Once you’ve chosen your crate alternative, consider some of these products on Amazon:

This 8-panel exercise pen is a great option for any dog who needs a little more space than a crate allows. It comes in five different heights and is quick and easy to assemble.

If you’re looking for a portable option, this cloth playpen is lightweight and easy to set up. It comes in several colors and the 8-panel design opens up into a generous play space for your dog.

For a more permanent installation that doesn’t look like a flimsy pet gate, this playpen is a great option. It comes in a wide range of colors with an optional mesh roof for added security.

This extra-tall baby gate is a great option for larger dogs. It expends up to 42 inches long and it features a stylish high-end finish to mesh with your home décor.

To keep your dog confined, this extra-wide gate is a durable option that stands a full 30 inches tall. It also features a walk-through design, so you don’t have to step over it or take it down.

Some dogs simply can’t tolerate being crated but, for many dogs, it is an issue you can work through. The key to keeping your dog comfortable in the crate is taking the time to get him used to it before he spends any time in it. By feeding your dog his meals in the crate (with the door open) and involving the crate in games and playtime, you can help your dog develop a more positive attitude toward the crate.