Should You Cover Your Dog’s Crate or Leave It Open?

Neither setup is better for every dog: a cover may help a pup settle when household movement keeps catching their attention, while an uncovered crate lets them see the room and may feel more comfortable to a dog who dislikes being enclosed. Start with the crate uncovered, then try covering part of it while you’re home to see whether your dog relaxes or becomes more restless.

A cover can make a crate feel like a quieter resting spot during naps or bedtime, particularly in a busy room where people frequently pass by. If you try one, leave the entrance clear, keep ample airflow around the crate, and choose a breathable material that your dog cannot pull through the bars or chew.

Leave the crate uncovered if your dog pants, paws at the cover, pulls fabric inside, or seems more distressed once their view is blocked; a cover should never be used to force a nervous dog to stay quiet. An open view may also be a better fit if your dog settles more easily when they can see you, especially while they’re still getting used to the crate.

Whether you choose covered or uncovered, introduce the crate gradually with short, positive sessions rather than treating the cover as the solution to barking or anxiety. Our Crate Training Your Pup – A Practical Ebook Guide to Dog Crate Training Basics for Happy, Calm Dogs is a resource if you want to explore crate-training basics as you find the setup that suits your pup.