A drying cage for dogs is an enclosed crate or kennel with a fan (sometimes heated) attached, used mostly by groomers and kennels to dry a dog after a bath. It can speed up drying and contain the mess, but it is controversial: dogs left unattended in heated drying cages can overheat, so a drying cage is only safe when it's unheated or on low heat and someone watches the dog the whole time.
Keep reading to learn the pros and cons of drying cages, how to use one safely, and whether you should be using one at home.
What is a drying cage for dogs?
A drying cage for dogs is a type of enclosure that is used to dry wet or dirty dogs. The cage typically has a mesh floor that allows water and dirt to drain away, and it is equipped with a fan that helps to speed up the drying process.
Drying cages are often found at kennels, grooming facilities, and veterinary clinics. They can be helpful for keeping dogs clean and dry after baths, swims, or walks in the rain.
However, some dogs find them stressful, as they may feel confined and isolated. For this reason, it is important to introduce your dog to a drying cage gradually and make sure that they have plenty of time to adjust to it before using it regularly.
What are the benefits of using a drying cage?
There are several benefits of using a drying cage for dogs, including
Speeding up the drying process
A drying cage equipped with a fan can help to dry your dog off more quickly than towels alone. This is especially helpful if you live in a humid climate or if your dog has a thick coat.
Preventing water damage
If you have ever been caught in a rainstorm with your dog, you know that they can shake off quite a bit of water. By using a drying cage, you can help to prevent this from happening and protect your floors and furniture from water damage
Keeping the house clean
If you don't want your dog tracking wet footprints through the house, a drying cage can help to contain the mess. This is especially useful if you have guests over or if you have young children in the home. We share more ideas in how to keep dirt out of the house with dogs.
What are the drawbacks of using a drying cage?
While there are many benefits to using a drying cage, there are also some potential drawbacks that you should be aware of
You have to keep a close eye on your dog
Because drying cages confine dogs to a small space, it is important that you stay close by to make sure that your pet is not overheating or feeling anxious. Never leave your dog alone in a drying cage, even for a few minutes.
Dogs may find them stressful
Some dogs may feel anxious or stressed in a drying cage, as they may feel confined and isolated. If your dog seems stressed, it is important to give them time to adjust to the cage and make sure that they have plenty of space to move around. You should also avoid using the cage for extended periods of time. Some dogs are unsettled for a while after any grooming session, as we explain in how long a dog may act weird after grooming.
They can be expensive
Drying cages can be relatively expensive, so they may not be a viable option for everyone. If you are interested in using a drying cage, it is important to do your research and find one that is a good fit for your budget.
How do you use a drying cage in 6 steps?
If you have decided that you would like to use a drying cage, there are a few things that you need to do in order to ensure that the process goes smoothly
1. Choose the right size and style of cage
Make certain that the cage you choose is spacious enough for your dog to move about freely. You should also think about the style of the cage; some dogs may be more nervous in a completely enclosed area.
2. Place the cage in a convenient location
You will need to have a designated space for the cage, so make sure to choose a spot that is close to an outlet for the fan and is out of the way of foot traffic.
3. Introduce your dog to the cage gradually
Do not try to force your dog into the cage. Instead, let them sniff around and explore it at their own pace. You may need to give them treats to encourage them to go inside.
4. Use the cage for short periods of time
Start by using the cage for short periods of time, such as a few minutes after a bath, on the lowest, unheated fan setting. If your dog seems stressed, try a favorite toy or treats, and if they stay anxious, stop and towel dry instead.
5. Dry your dog off with a towel before
Be sure to dry your dog off with a towel before putting them in the cage, as this will help to speed up the drying process. You should also brush their fur to remove any knots or tangles.
6. Always keep an eye on your dog
Remember, it is ALWAYS important to stay close by when your dog is in the cage. Check on them every few minutes, and keep the room cool and well ventilated.
Are there any safety concerns with using a drying cage?
When used correctly, drying cages are safe for dogs. However, there is some controversy over their use, for the following reasons:
Use of wrong equipment on cages
Some groomers make use of stand dryers which are designed for grooming tables not for cages. These stand dryers produce higher temperatures than cage dryers, which can lead to your dog overheating.
Some groomers don't keep an eye on the dogs
An issue with cage drying is that dogs are locked in and some groomers will leave the room to attend to other dogs or tasks, forgetting that the dog is in the cage. This can lead to the dog overheating as there is no one there to monitor them. Sadly, dogs have died from heatstroke in heated drying cages.
Some dogs are at higher risk
Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs and French Bulldogs, as well as senior dogs, overweight dogs, very anxious dogs and dogs with heart or breathing problems, overheat much more easily. These dogs should not be put in a heated drying cage at all.
If a dog in a drying cage pants heavily, drools, has bright red gums, seems weak or wobbly, or vomits, take them out right away, move them somewhere cool, offer water, and call your vet. Heatstroke is an emergency.
Should you buy a cage dryer for your dog?
In general, a cage dryer isn’t appealing to the average dog owner. There are many less expensive alternatives available. For most dogs, a good towel (and a low-heat handheld dog dryer for thick coats) is all you need. We weigh up towel drying against air drying in can I let my dog air dry after a bath.
If you are in contact with a lot of dogs, say at a boarding kennel or a grooming salon, then a cage dryer may be a necessity. But for the average dog owner, it’s an expensive piece of equipment that isn’t necessary.
Cage drying is controversial and there are many risks associated with its use. If you decide to use a cage dryer, make sure to do your research and select one that is the right size and style for your needs.
Final word
Cage drying is a controversial topic among dog owners and groomers. While some believe that it is a necessary tool, others argue that it is unnecessary and even dangerous. If you decide to use a cage dryer, it is important to do your research, select one that is the right size and style for your needs, and use it without heat or on low heat. You should ALWAYS stay close by when your dog is in the cage to ensure their safety. And if you take your dog to a groomer, it's fair to ask whether they use heated cage dryers and how they monitor dogs.
