How to Choose the Right Size Crate for Your Dog

If you’re adopting a dog (especially a puppy), a new crate will probably be at the top of your to-do list. Finding the right size crate for your dog, no matter their age, is crucial for their comfort, safety, and overall well-being. If trained correctly through positive reinforcement, your dog will view their crate as their safe space and not as a punishment. 

Crates should have a comfortable bed and their favorite toy, so your dog learns to enjoy spending time inside it. However, no matter how large a crate is, it should never be used to contain your dog all day long while you’re at work. Long hours in a confined space can cause your dog to become depressed or anxious. 

Crates can be plastic (sometimes called “flight kennels”) or fabric with a collapsible frame. They come in different sizes for all breeds and can be found online or in most pet supply stores. Some are even designed like a piece of furniture, blending in with your home décor.

Selecting the correct size crate

Crates are sometimes confused with kennels, but the terms are not interchangeable. Kennels are larger, more permanent structures with extra space for a dog to play around. This is why boarding facilities are often referred to as kennels. Crates are individual enclosures that stay in your home or are portable for travel.

According to the Humane Society of the United States (or HSUS): “The crate should be large enough for your dog to stand up and turn around in. If your dog is still growing, choose a crate size that will accommodate their adult size.” Your dog should be able to sleep comfortably in their crate (including lying on their side with limbs fully extended). Remember that some space will be taken up by foam mats or dog beds. Also keep in mind that if a crate is too spacious, your dog may use one end of it as a bathroom area, hindering housetraining attempts. 

How to measure a dog for a crate size

When your dog has reached their full size and you’re ready to look for their permanent crate, you can measure your pup to ensure the right fit. Use a measuring tape to figure out your dog’s length (from the tip of their nose to the end of their tail) and height (from the floor to the top of their head, including ears, while they’re seated). Add at least four inches to all measurements so your dog has ample room to get comfortable.

Dog crate size guidelines

The size of the crate your dog will need depends on their size. Use the above length and width measurements to determine your dog crate choice. It’s possible to go up a size to give your pup some extra room, but keep in mind that smaller breeds can slip through the grates if you size up too much.

Crate divider panels can also be used for puppies to shrink the interior space of the crate temporarily until they finish growing. 

1. Extra small crate: Tiny dogs will require a crate size around 18 inches. 

• Dog length: under 18 inches long

• Dog weight: 10 pounds or less

• Breeds: Chihuahua, Maltese, Pomeranian, and Shih Tzu

2. Small dog crate: A 24-inch crate is ideal for the below dogs. 

• Dog length: 18 to 22 inches long

• Dog weight: 10 to 25 pounds

• Breeds: Bichon Frise, Jack Russell Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Pug

3. Medium dog crate: A 30-inch crate is suitable for dogs less than 28 inches long. 

• Dog length: 22 to 28 inches long

• Dog weight: 25 to 40 pounds

• Breeds: Beagle, French Bulldog, Tibetan Terrier, and Corgi

4. Large dog crate: A 36-inch crate is ideal for large breed dogs such as the ones below.

• Dog length: 28 to 34 inches long

• Dog weight: 40 to 70 pounds

• Breeds: American Pit Bull Terrier, Border Collie, Goldendoodle, and Husky

5. Extra-large dog crate: An XL crate can fit larger dogs up to 42 or 46 inches long, depending on the manufacturer.

• Dog length: 36 to 46 inches long

• Dog weight: 70 to 90 pounds

• Breed examples: Boxer, Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and Irish Setter

6. Double extra-large dog crate: A heavy-duty 2XL 48- to 56-inch crate fits the largest dogs who weigh 90 pounds or more. 

• Dog length: 42 to 54 inches

• Dog weight: 90+ pounds

• Breed examples: Bernese Mountain Dog, Great Dane, Mastiff, and Rottweiler

Special dog crate-sizing considerations

What size dog crate should be used for flying?

In addition to the size guidelines for choosing your everyday crate, some special considerations should be made for airplane travel. It’s best to start by checking with the airline for specific crate-size limitations and any additional requirements regarding weight or breed restrictions. 

For instance, American Airlines cautions, “Failure to meet all kennel requirements will result in your animal not being able to travel on the designated flight.” Additionally, they provide a list of criteria that make crates acceptable for flying on their planes. Each airline will vary, so check your preferred carrier’s website.

Check that the travel crate has a secure locking mechanism to prevent escape should your dog become anxious, overstimulated, or afraid. Also, make sure that the crate has adequate ventilation on multiple sides. 

How to choose a crate for a growing puppy

Rather than cycle through several crates as your dog grows, it may help to predict your dog’s final size based on their breed and use a crate divider panel, which can temporarily shrink the interior space and be adjusted as they mature. You can even just block that extra space with bedding or pillows.

PetMD also recommends considering that puppies love to chew. “When purchasing a crate for a puppy, keep their potty training and teething needs in mind. An easy-to-clean, durable material that does not attract chewing is usually the best fit for younger dogs.” They also recommend crates made from coated steel wire. These crates offer good ventilation and are durable and easy to clean. Your dog can watch what’s going on, but if they prefer more privacy, you can always toss a cover over it and remove it as needed.

If cost is a concern, local animal shelters may be a resource for crate rentals. “By renting, you can trade up to the appropriate size for your puppy until they reach adult size, when you can invest in a permanent crate,” says the HSUS.

Commonly asked questions

How do I crate train my dog? 

You can crate-train your dog in a series of stages. Attempting to move through the steps too quickly may not be as effective. Help your dog associate the crate with good things such as meal times, treats, and play. (Note that a crate should not be used in an attempt to remedy separation anxiety.)

Can I use the same crate for multiple dogs?

No, do not put several dogs in the same crate. The only exception to this rule may be for puppies from the same litter, but only when they are very young. As they age, they will need their own space. Crating dogs together can lead to stress and aggression. If you have two small dogs, you can also consider using a solid divider in a large cage, provided the space for each dog is enough to accommodate their needs to sit, stand, and turn around comfortably. 

How do I housetrain my puppy? 

Housetraining a puppy takes patience and positive reinforcement. First, make sure your puppy is at least 12 to 16 weeks old. Pick a spot, and make relieving themselves there a routine. Teach them a cue for that spot (such as “go potty”), and reward their good behavior with treats. Over time, they will stop having accidents indoors.

References

Crate Training 101

Dog Crates: When to Use Them and How to Pick One

Minimum Space Requirements for Dogs