Enclosure Type
wire cage
Floor Space
4.5 sq ft
Dimensions
36"L × 24"W × 38"H
Verdict
Depends on Setup ℹ️
💰 Typical Price: $130–$180
Our Verdict
Based on the floor space and enclosure type analysis above, this enclosure is depends on setup ℹ️ for a Dog.
⚠️ Wire Floor Warning: The default wire shelves MUST be covered with kiln-dried pine boards, fleece, or ceramic tiles. Wire flooring causes bumblefoot in ALL small mammals.
Pros & Cons of the Single Critter Nation
✅ Pros
- Full-width double doors for easy access
- 1/2" bar spacing — safe for most small mammals
- Solid removable pan floor
- Expandable — add second unit on top
❌ Cons
- Heavy and large footprint
- Expensive new — check Facebook Marketplace
- Wire shelves MUST be covered with solid material
What Dogs Need in an Enclosure
Dogs are free-roaming companion animals. Crates are a training tool and safe retreat — not a housing solution. A dog should never be crated for more than 4-5 hours (adults) or 2 hours (puppies). Outdoor kennels must provide shade, weather protection, and socialization — permanent outdoor-only living is considered inhumane for companion breeds.
Recommended Setup for Dogs
Wire crate (breed-sized)Training tool and safe retreat. Buy for adult size; use a divider for puppies.
Orthopedic dog bedImportant for large breeds prone to joint issues. Washable cover is essential.
Baby gatesManages access to stairs, rooms, and kitchen without full confinement.
Outdoor kennel runTemporary outdoor space only — never a permanent substitute for indoor living.
Exercise pen (x-pen)Useful for puppies and small dogs when supervised freedom is limited.
⚠️ Things to Avoid for Dogs
- Using a crate as punishment — destroys crate training association
- Crating for 8+ hours daily — causes psychological harm
- Crates or pens that are too large for puppies (reduces housetraining efficacy)
- Permanent outdoor kennel living for companion breeds
Other Enclosures for Dogs
- 10 Gallon Glass Tank
- 20 Gallon Long Glass Tank
- 40 Gallon Breeder Glass Tank
- 75 Gallon Glass Tank
- DIY Bin Cage (110L / 640+ sq in)
- Double Critter Nation
- IKEA Detolf Glass Cabinet (converted)
- C&C Grid Cage (2×4 Grids)
- C&C Grid Cage (2×5 Grids)
- Wire Dog Crate (Medium — 36")
- Wire Dog Crate (Large — 42")
- Heavy-Duty Escape-Proof Dog Crate
- Cat Tree / Condo (72"+ height)
- Indoor X-Pen / Exercise Pen
- PVC Reptile Enclosure (4'×2'×2')