What is the best type of crate to purchase

"Hi All,

I was wondering which type of crate I should buy? Actually I was thinking of buying both types. The wire cage type to be used to house my Shih Tzu during the day time when we are at work (I will be coming home for lunch to let it out). The Airline plastic type for sleeping in during the night and to take her on trips in the car. Any thoughts about this thinking. The breeder suggests the wire cage since the dog can see out more, have more air flow, etc. I was thinking that the airline type works better when needing to carry the dog in the car and it would be darker for her at night."

Response

I think you may have answered your own question. The wire ones do allow more air flow etc. for at home, but I also prefer to use them once we get to a show. They cause less static electricity on long coated breeds, and good models fold up like a suitcase. Their downfall is stackability, but that shouldn't matter in a home situation. Any air/car travel etc. is better generally in a plastic crate. We mostly have Vari-Kennels but have been buying the 'Furrari' crates since they came out a few years ago. They have latches on the side and the option to screw the latches shut for air transport. The doors open both ways, and the bottom of the crate is flat unlike the Vari Kennels (and you don't have to tighten those little finger numbing screws). They also come with a saddlebag type unit which is great for putting in food, papers and such for air flights. The plastic is not mottled like the Vari Kennel and is easier to keep clean.

There is a wire type crate which is approved for airline use and comes with a fabric cover, I think it is a KennelAir or something to that effect, and it is a very nice crate. If you really want to travel in class there are some marvelous stainless steel crates which only cost around a gazillion dollars each but are very classy!