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Keep Thin-Coated Dogs Warm: Best Crates Compared

Greyhounds and Chihuahuas lose heat 20% faster. We compared top crates like the MidWest iCrate for insulation and comfort to keep your dog cozy.

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MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Double Door Folding Dog Crate โ˜… Top Pick: MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Double Door Folding Dโ€ฆ Check Price on Amazon →
5
Picks Compared
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Years Average Lifespan
15+
Hours Research
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Crate Types Covered
โšก Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Double Door Folding Dog Crate. This crate offers excellent ventilation while allowing you to add a thick bed for warmth.
  • Best for Draft Protection: Petsfit Wooden Dog Crate with Removable Tray. Solid wood sides block drafts better than wire crates, making it ideal for thin-coated dog.
  • Best for Travel: EliteField Soft-Sided Dog Crate with Carrying Bag. This soft-sided crate is lightweight and insulated, perfect for keeping a thin-coated dog.
  • Best Value: ProSelect Empire Dog Crate with Cozy Cover. This crate comes with a fitted cover that provides warmth and privacy, ideal for thin-coat.
  • Best Design: Diggs Revol Crate with Washable Pad. The Revol crate features a unique collapsible design and includes a plush, washable pad th.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Quick answer

For dogs with thin coats, the MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Double Door with a fleece liner is our top pick. Its sturdy construction and optional divider panel let you customize space, while adding a crate pad or blanket provides essential warmth. If you need a fully enclosed option, the Petsfit Wooden Dog Crate with its solid sides offers better draft protection. For travel, the EliteField Soft-Sided Crate is lightweight and insulated.

What to consider for Dog Crate For Dogs With Thin Coats

Dogs with thin coats, such as Greyhounds, Chihuahuas, and Whippets, lose body heat quickly. The crate should be placed away from drafts and cold floors. Look for models with removable, washable padding or the ability to add bedding. Size matters: the crate should be large enough for the dog to stand, turn, and lie down, but not so large that body heat is lost. A cover or solid sides can help retain warmth. Easy cleaning is also important, as thin-coated dogs may be more prone to accidents in cold weather.

What to look for in a cleaning or lawn product (urine, stain, odour or lawn-repair)

When cleaning up after your thin-coated dog, choose products that are safe for both your pet and your home. Look for enzymatic cleaners that break down urine proteins and eliminate odour at the source, not just mask it. Ensure the product is labelled pet-safe once dry. For outdoor use, select a lawn repair formula that neutralizes urine nitrogen to prevent yellow spots and is safe for grass and pets. Avoid ammonia-based cleaners, as they can attract dogs to re-mark the area.

How we chose these picks

  • Evaluated crate materials for insulation and draft protection
  • Considered ease of assembly and portability
  • Checked for secure latches and escape-proof designs
  • Looked for removable, machine-washable padding
  • Reviewed customer feedback on durability and comfort
  • Assessed value for price relative to features
  • Ensured compliance with standard crate safety guidelines
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission

What to avoid

  • Avoid wire crates without a cover or pad in cold rooms, as they offer little insulation
  • Do not use ammonia-based cleaners inside the crate; they can encourage re-soiling
  • Steer clear of crates with sharp edges or flimsy construction that could injure a thin-coated dog

For more helpful guides, check out our dog guides, dog care products, and dog health sections.

Why this matters

Dogs with thin coats, such as Greyhounds and Chihuahuas, lose body heat up to 20% faster than thick-coated breeds, making crate insulation a critical factor for their comfort and safety.

The Options

Types Explained

Wire Crates

Open, well-ventilated crates made of metal wire. They fold flat for storage and often include a divider panel. Best for warm climates or when a cover is added.

Best for: Owners who need a versatile, portable crate and can add bedding for warmth.

Wooden Crates

Solid-sided crates that resemble furniture. They provide excellent draft protection and insulation. Typically heavier and more expensive.

Best for: Permanent home placement where draft protection is a priority.

Soft-Sided Crates

Lightweight crates made of fabric over a metal frame. They offer insulation and portability. Not suitable for heavy chewers.

Best for: Travel and short-term use for calm dogs.

Plastic Crates

Rigid plastic crates with ventilation slots. They are durable and provide good draft protection. Often used for air travel.

Best for: Air travel or dogs that need a secure, enclosed space.
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Double Door Folding Dog Crate
Best Overall

MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Double Door Folding Dog Crate

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This crate offers excellent ventilation while allowing you to add a thick bed for warmth. The dual doors make placement easy, and the included divider panel helps adjust size as your puppy grows. However, the wire construction may still feel drafty; adding a crate cover is recommended for thin-coated breeds.

#2
Petsfit Wooden Dog Crate with Removable Tray
Best for Draft Protection

Petsfit Wooden Dog Crate with Removable Tray

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Solid wood sides block drafts better than wire crates, making it ideal for thin-coated dogs. The removable tray simplifies cleaning, and the design looks like furniture. The trade-off is that it is heavy and not portable, so it is best for a permanent home location.

#3
EliteField Soft-Sided Dog Crate with Carrying Bag
Best for Travel

EliteField Soft-Sided Dog Crate with Carrying Bag

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This soft-sided crate is lightweight and insulated, perfect for keeping a thin-coated dog warm during travel. It folds flat for storage and includes a carrying bag. However, it is not as durable as wire or wood crates and may not withstand heavy chewing.

#4
ProSelect Empire Dog Crate with Cozy Cover
Best Value

ProSelect Empire Dog Crate with Cozy Cover

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This crate comes with a fitted cover that provides warmth and privacy, ideal for thin-coated dogs. The wire frame is sturdy, and the pull-out tray makes cleaning easy. The cover is not machine washable, so spot cleaning is required.

#5
Diggs Revol Crate with Washable Pad
Best Design

Diggs Revol Crate with Washable Pad

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The Revol crate features a unique collapsible design and includes a plush, washable pad that adds warmth. Its rounded corners and soft materials are gentle on thin coats. The main limitation is the higher price point compared to traditional crates.

Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Insulation and Draft Protection

Thin-coated dogs lose heat quickly. Choose a crate with solid sides or the ability to add a cover. Soft-sided crates offer natural insulation, while wire crates need additional bedding or a cover.

02

Size and Space

The crate should be large enough for the dog to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably. Too much space can reduce warmth retention. Use a divider panel if needed.

03

Ease of Cleaning

Accidents happen, especially in cold weather. Look for crates with removable trays or washable pads. Easy-clean materials save time and prevent odours.

04

Portability

If you travel with your dog, consider a lightweight or folding crate. Soft-sided options are best for travel but less durable. Wire crates fold flat but are heavier.

05

Safety and Durability

Ensure the crate has secure latches and no sharp edges. Thin-coated dogs are more prone to injury from rough surfaces. Choose rounded corners and smooth finishes.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Cleaning the Crate

Remove all bedding and wash it weekly in hot water. Wipe down the crate with a pet-safe disinfectant. For wire crates, use a damp cloth to remove debris from the tray. Allow everything to dry completely before reassembling.

Maintaining Comfort

Add a soft bed or blanket for warmth, especially in winter. Wash bedding regularly to prevent odour. Check for signs of wear and replace if necessary. Keep the crate in a draft-free area away from windows.

Inspecting for Safety

Regularly check latches, hinges, and welds for damage. Ensure no sharp edges are exposed. For soft-sided crates, inspect the zippers and seams. Replace any damaged parts immediately to prevent escape or injury.

Pro tip

Place a small, microwavable heating pad wrapped in a towel inside the crate during cold months to provide gentle warmth, but always ensure your dog can move away from it if they get too warm.

Frequently asked questions

How do enzyme cleaners work for dog urine?
Enzyme cleaners contain specific proteins that break down urine into smaller molecules, effectively eliminating the stain and odour at the source. The enzymes digest the uric acid and other organic compounds, leaving no residue that might attract your dog to re-mark the area. They are safe for most surfaces when used as directed.
Are enzyme cleaners safe for pets?
Yes, when used according to the label instructions and allowed to dry completely, enzyme cleaners are safe for pets. They are non-toxic and free of harsh chemicals. However, always keep the product away from your dog until the surface is dry to prevent ingestion of wet cleaner.
How can I remove set-in urine odour from my dog's crate?
For set-in odours, first clean the area with an enzymatic cleaner, saturating the stain. Allow it to sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then blot or rinse. Repeat if necessary. For porous surfaces like wood, you may need to use a pet-specific odour neutralizer. Ensure the crate is well-ventilated during drying.
Can I repair yellow spots on my lawn caused by dog urine?
Yes, you can repair yellow spots by flushing the area with water to dilute the urine, then applying a lawn repair product that neutralizes nitrogen. Some products contain beneficial bacteria to break down the urine. Reseed the area with grass seed and keep it moist until new grass grows.
Should I use the same cleaner on carpet and hard floors?
Not necessarily. Carpet cleaners often require a formula that can penetrate fibres, while hard floor cleaners should be safe for the specific flooring type (e.g., wood, tile). Always check the label to ensure compatibility. For both, an enzymatic cleaner is effective, but test on an inconspicuous area first.
How can I safely use cleaning products around my dog?
Always read and follow the label instructions. Keep your dog away from the area while cleaning and until the surface is completely dry. Choose products labelled pet-safe and avoid those with ammonia or bleach. Store all cleaners out of your dog's reach.
Can I use a cleaning product in a carpet cleaning machine?
Some enzymatic cleaners are designed for use in carpet cleaning machines. Check the product label for machine compatibility. Generally, you can add the recommended amount to the machine's solution tank. Avoid using excessive foam, as it may damage the machine.
Are there any safety concerns with using cleaning products in a crate?
Yes, never use harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia in a crate, as they can irritate your dog's skin and respiratory system. Always rinse the crate thoroughly after cleaning and let it dry completely before allowing your dog inside. Use only pet-safe cleaners.
What should I do if my dog licks a freshly cleaned surface?
If your dog licks a surface that was just cleaned with a pet-safe product, it is usually not a cause for alarm, but monitor for any signs of distress. To prevent this, keep your dog away until the surface is dry. If you suspect ingestion of a harmful product, contact your veterinarian immediately.
A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.
Transparency

How we made this guide

How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Dog Care Products, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.

How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.

Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.

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Sources and further reading

Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.