How to assemble a dog crate

• Work gloves (optional, for wire edges)

Before you start, lay everything out on a soft surface (the flattened box works) and check it against the parts list in your manual.

• Folded wire crate with top, sides and ends
• Door panel(s) with slide bolts
• Divider panel (if supplied)
• Plastic floor tray
• Clips or wire hooks

1. 1

   Step 1: Lay the folded crate flat on the floor with the handle or top facing up as the manual shows.

2. 2

   Step 2: Lift the top panel up and back, then raise both long side panels so they stand vertical.

3. 3

   Step 3: Swing the end panels in to meet the sides, and hook or clip each corner so the panels lock together.

4. 4

   Step 4: Check the door opens and closes smoothly, and that its slide bolts drop fully into their loops.

5. 5

   Step 5: Fit the divider panel if your puppy needs a smaller space, placing it so the dog has room to stand and turn around.

6. 6

   Step 6: Slide the floor tray in through the door or the end, and push it all the way to the back so there is no gap at the front.

7. 7

   Step 7: Push firmly on each corner and on the top to make sure no clip pops open.

• Leaving a corner clip undone, so the crate collapses when the dog leans on it.
• Using a divider position that leaves too little room to stand and turn.
• Leaving a collar with tags on inside the crate, where it can catch on the wire.