Are you staring at your furry friend’s crate wondering if you should throw a blanket over it tonight? You’re not alone! This is one of the most common questions new dog parents ask, and for good reason. The decision to cover or not cover can impact your pup’s comfort, anxiety levels, and sleep quality.
At SmallDogGuides, we’ve helped hundreds of pet parents navigate this exact dilemma In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about covering your dog’s crate at night, drawing from both personal experience and expert advice
The Benefits of Covering Your Dog’s Crate at Night
Dogs are naturally den animals who often seek out enclosed, dark spaces when they’re scared or need to rest. This instinct is why many dogs respond positively to having their crate covered. Here are some key benefits:
1. Creates a Sense of Security
A covered crate mimics the den-like environment dogs naturally prefer. The darkness and enclosed feeling can help your dog feel protected and secure, especially for anxious pups.
2. Reduces Visual Stimulation
Covering the crate limits visual distractions that might otherwise keep your dog alert or trigger barking This is particularly helpful for
- Easily excitable dogs
- Dogs in high-traffic households
- Pups that react to movement outside windows
3. Improves Sleep Quality
The darkness created by a cover signals to your dog that it’s time to rest, much like how humans sleep better in dark rooms. This can help establish a healthy sleep routine and lead to more restful nights for both you and your pup.
4. Helps with Temperature Regulation
In cooler months, a breathable cover can provide extra warmth without overheating your dog. Just be careful about this in summer months (more on that later).
5. Reduces Anxiety
For dogs with mild anxiety or those who are easily startled, a cover can create a calming environment by blocking out sudden movements or lights that might otherwise trigger stress.
One dog parent shared with us: “My beagle mix would constantly wake up at the slightest movement until we started covering her crate. Now she sleeps soundly through the night!”
When You Should NOT Cover Your Dog’s Crate
While covering works wonders for many dogs, it’s not a universal solution. Here are situations when covering might not be the best idea:
1. Dogs Who Show Signs of Distress
If your dog pants excessively, whines, tries to remove the cover, or shows other signs of anxiety when the crate is covered, they may find it more stressful than comforting.
2. Hot Weather Conditions
In warm climates or during summer months, a cover might restrict airflow and make the crate uncomfortably hot. Always prioritize proper ventilation.
3. Puppies in Chewing Phase
Puppies between four and eight months old are often in a teething phase and may pull the cover into the crate to chew on it, creating a potential choking hazard.
4. Brachycephalic Breeds
Flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers already have respiratory challenges. These dogs need maximum airflow, so covering their crate completely is not recommended.
How to Properly Cover Your Dog’s Crate
If you’ve decided that covering your dog’s crate at night is appropriate, here’s how to do it safely and effectively:
- Start by placing the cover on top of the crate only, leaving the sides uncovered
- Allow your dog to enter voluntarily and observe their reaction
- After a couple days, lower the cover on one side
- Gradually add coverage to additional sides as your dog becomes comfortable
- Never leave your dog unattended with a new cover until you’re confident they’re comfortable
Safety Considerations
- Choose breathable materials – Cotton or mesh fabrics are ideal as they allow air circulation
- Secure the cover properly – Make sure it can’t be pulled into the crate
- Keep it away from heat sources – Position the crate away from heaters or direct sunlight
- Monitor the temperature – Check that the crate doesn’t become too warm
- Avoid knit materials – These can snag and unravel, creating potential hazards
Best Materials for Crate Covers
Not all crate covers are created equal! Here are some options to consider:
| Material Type | Benefits | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Breathable Cotton | Good airflow, washable | General use, year-round |
| Moving Blankets | Sound dampening | Dogs sensitive to noise |
| Purpose-Made Covers | Proper fit, security features | Long-term solution |
| Lightweight Sheet | Affordable, good for hot weather | Summer use, testing if your dog likes covers |
| Insulated Covers | Warmth in cold weather | Winter use, outdoor kennels |
DIY vs. Store-Bought Crate Covers
DIY Options
You can make a simple crate cover using:
- Old blankets or sheets
- Towels (if secured properly)
- Fabric remnants from craft stores
Just be sure whatever you use is:
- Clean
- Free of loose threads or fraying
- Securely attached so it won’t fall into the crate
Store-Bought Options
Commercial crate covers typically offer:
- Perfect sizing for standard crates
- Secure fastening mechanisms
- Machine-washable fabrics
- Ventilation panels
- Sometimes, noise-reducing properties
FAQs About Covering Dog Crates at Night
Will covering a crate help with my dog’s separation anxiety?
Covering a crate may help with mild anxiety but isn’t a complete solution for true separation anxiety. For severe cases, consult with a veterinarian or animal behaviorist for a comprehensive treatment plan.
Can I use a blanket or towel to cover my dog’s crate?
Yes, but ensure it’s secure and can’t be pulled into the crate. Also make sure it’s lightweight enough to allow proper airflow.
Should I leave the crate covered all the time or just at night?
Most experts recommend only covering the crate at night or during designated rest times. Leaving it covered all day can create a sense of isolation and disconnection for your dog.
My puppy is 7 months old – should I cover his crate?
At this age, puppies are often still in a chewing phase. If you want to cover the crate, make absolutely sure the cover is secure and can’t be pulled in and chewed.
How do I know if my dog likes having their crate covered?
Watch their behavior! Signs your dog enjoys a covered crate include:
- Settling down quickly
- Sleeping soundly through the night
- Voluntarily entering the covered crate
- Appearing calm and relaxed inside
Signs they may not like it include:
- Panting
- Restlessness
- Attempting to remove the cover
- Reluctance to enter the crate
Our Experience with Crate Covers
At SmallDogGuides, we’ve found that about 70% of dogs respond positively to having their crates partially or fully covered at night. My own terrier mix, Bailey, went from waking up at every little sound to sleeping soundly through the night once we started using a purpose-made crate cover with ventilation panels.
However, each dog is unique! My neighbor’s Lab actually prefers his crate uncovered – he likes to keep an eye on everything happening in the room even while he rests.
Alternatives to Covering the Crate
If your dog doesn’t seem to like having their crate covered, there are other ways to create a comforting sleep environment:
- Place the crate in a quiet, dim corner of the room
- Use a crate with solid sides rather than wire on all sides
- Try a calming diffuser with dog-appeasing pheromones near the crate
- Play white noise or calming music to mask sudden sounds
- Provide a comfortable bed inside the crate to create a cozy feeling
Final Thoughts
Covering your dog’s crate at night can be beneficial for many dogs, creating a secure, den-like environment that promotes better sleep and reduces anxiety. However, it’s not right for every dog or situation.
The key is to introduce the cover gradually, watch your dog’s response carefully, and prioritize safety and comfort above all else. Remember that your dog’s preferences may change over time, so be flexible and responsive to their needs.
Have you tried covering your dog’s crate at night? We’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!
And if you’re still unsure, start with just covering the top of the crate and see how your pup responds. You can always adjust based on their reaction, gradually increasing coverage if they seem to enjoy the cozier setup.
Happy crate training!
What type of cover is best for a dog crate?
Breathable, easy-clean material is best for a dog crate cover. If you live in a cold climate or your dog spends most of her time outdoors, an insulated cover may be beneficial—but it may be too warm otherwise. A dedicated crate cover that matches your décor can disguise an unattractive wire crate. Carefully tucked sheets or blankets can also do in a pinch—if you take precautions to avoid creating tripping hazards for yourself, as well as chewing or tearing hazards for your dog. Consider proper airflow to prevent overheating in the summer. And for a fitted crate cover, for any size crate, choose material that’s easy to fit and remove as necessary.
If your dog is sensitive to sounds, covering her crate with moving blankets or furniture pads may help reduce the noise within her sanctuary. Moving blankets are constructed with padding between layers of fabric, so they may dampen unwelcome sounds from household appliances, outdoor traffic, and to a lesser degree, storms. Though you can’t fully soundproof a dog crate, you can still use sound dampening blankets when you anticipate distressing noise.
Should a dog’s crate be covered?
Dogs are den animals who prefer the security of a secluded area—it’s instinctive for our canine friends to search out an enclosed, dark space when they’re scared or need rest. A crate cover, like a blanket or crate-specific covering, can be beneficial to many dogs and can help reduce anxiety and soothe dogs by limiting visual stimuli, which in turn can prevent excitement and barking. Easily excitable dogs are less likely to react to movement outside windows or in other areas of the building if they’re in a covered crate. A closed cover at night can signal bedtime, and an open one may indicate that it’s okay to play. A covered crate can be especially helpful on a road trip for a dog who is stressed by car rides, or while she’s in an unfamiliar place with new distractions.