There has been much discussion in the dog kennel industry between which is better, chain link or welded wire dog kennel. Both kennel types have their advantages and disadvantages, so here are the pros and cons for both types:

Chain Link Dog Kennels:

Pros- Chain link dog kennels are the least expensive to purchase.

Cons- The wire used in chain link dog kennels is soft in order to be bent into the links that form the mesh. This softness is a major drawback as many large or aggressive breeds of dogs can bite through this soft wire or actually push the links apart. The ends of the wire are exposed to the dog and can puncture or cut the dog very easily. Many chain link companies require you to stretch the chain link onto the frame which takes several people to do properly. Many people have purchased a chain link dog kennel only to find it was beyond their skills to assemble it properly and end up returning the kennel to the store for a refund.

Welded Wire Dog Kennels:

Pros- High strength as the welded wire is welded at each joint, making it difficult, but not impossible to break the welds and forcing the wire apart. Each of the ends of the welded wire should be encased in the frame of the kennel, so the dog cannot be cut by wire ends. Welded wire kennels are made in prefabricated panels, making assembly very easy.

Cons- Higher price that chain link kennels. Be sure to check the thickness or gauge of the wire used. The lower the gauge number, the thicker and stronger the wire is. Caution, many welded wire kennels are being shipped in from China of questionable quality. Check with the company who is selling the kennel. If the sales staff can't answer all of your questions without having to check on it and call you later, find another supplier who can answer your questions.