Living with more than one dog brings a lot of joy—and a bit of organized chaos. As a team that’s both passionate about dogs and deeply familiar with crate solutions, we understand how important it is to create a setup that keeps every pup comfortable, secure, and stress-free. When crates are used correctly, they can become safe havens for each dog, even in a bustling multi-pet household.
We’ve worked with dog owners navigating everything from mismatched energy levels to pack dynamics. Here’s how we recommend approaching crate setup in homes with two or more dogs, based on real experience and customer feedback.
Choosing the Right Crates
The first step is ensuring each dog has a crate suited to their size, personality, and needs. In a multi-dog household, it might be tempting to grab a one-size-fits-all model, but that often leads to discomfort or conflict.
Smaller dogs feel more secure in appropriately sized crates, while large or working breeds need extra space and durability. Energetic or anxious dogs may also benefit from our more reinforced models, which minimize rattling and add peace of mind. For families who need flexibility, our Collapsible Dog Crate is a customer favorite—easy to store and travel with, yet strong enough for daily use.
In our own experience, it’s also smart to consider each dog’s crate time needs. Is one pup crated only overnight, while another requires downtime during the day? Choosing models that match your routine helps everything flow smoothly.
Ideal Crate Placement
Where you put the crates matters just as much as what crate you use. In multi-dog households, it’s important to avoid tension and make sure each dog has its own calm space.
We recommend placing crates:
-
With enough space between them to avoid nose-to-nose tension, especially for resource-guarding dogs.
-
Away from high-traffic areas to reduce noise and stimulation.
-
Near natural household hubs—like the family room—if your dogs feel safer being close to you.
-
In corners or against walls to provide a sense of security and structure.
Some pet parents prefer grouping crates in one room for routine’s sake. Others separate them into different zones depending on the dogs’ relationships. Either way, the goal is to give each dog breathing room.
Comfort & Personalization
Crate time should never feel like punishment. When each crate feels like a cozy, personalized den, dogs are far more likely to settle in calmly. We always encourage layering for both comfort and familiarity.
Here are a few go-to setup ideas we’ve used and seen work well:
-
Add an Orthopedic Crate Pad for joint support and long-lasting cushioning.
-
Use removable crate fans or cooling pads in warmer months, especially if your pups run hot.
-
Consider crate covers or blankets to provide visual calm and promote rest.
-
Use divider panels for puppies or smaller dogs sharing similar crate sizes, creating appropriate boundaries as they grow.
For multi-pet homes, it’s also helpful to add something that smells like each dog—like a well-worn bandana or blanket—so they instantly feel the space is theirs.
Managing Interactions
Even dogs who love each other need space sometimes. That’s why crate training isn’t just about confinement—it’s about creating individual zones that support healthy behavior and minimize conflict.
To keep the peace in shared spaces:
-
Introduce crate time slowly and independently at first. Let each dog explore their crate without the distraction of the others.
-
Use visual barriers (like a blanket between crates or placing them back-to-back) if one dog fixates on another.
-
Supervise crate entry and exit—especially around feeding time—to prevent posturing or guarding.
-
Take breaks. If tensions rise, crate one dog for a breather while allowing the others some free time.
We’ve heard from many customers that creating a predictable routine, with clear boundaries, is often the key to success in a multi-dog home.
Maintenance & Safety Checks
Multiple dogs mean more crate use—and that means more upkeep. We recommend making quick checks part of your daily and weekly routines to keep everything clean, functional, and safe.
Here’s what we suggest:
-
Daily
-
Wipe down the crate interior (especially after meals or muddy paws)
-
Check crate latches to ensure proper closure
-
Remove and shake out crate pads or blankets
-
Weekly
-
Deep clean the crate with a pet-safe cleaner
-
Inspect for any signs of wear, rust, or chewing
-
Recheck hardware if using collapsible models or dividers
The good news is, our aluminum crates are built to withstand long-term use, and with a little care, they’ll stay solid for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Multi-pet households thrive on structure, and crate setups are a key part of that. With the right combination of size, placement, comfort, and care, your dogs can each have a space that feels safe and personalized, without taking over your entire home.
We’re proud to support thousands of multi-dog families with durable, American-made aluminum crates designed for long-term safety and comfort. If you’re still deciding which crate is right for your home, we invite you to take our Crate Quiz for personalized recommendations based on your dogs and your space.
