Dog Crate Sizes & Buying Guide
Find the correct dog crate size for your four-legged friend.
Dogs are den animals and love having a space to retreat to. Having a crate in your home will give your dog a sense of security and a place of their own. Whether you are looking to crate-train your new puppy or upgrade your dog's current crate for a new one, choosing the right dog crate size is essential for your four-legged friend. Keep reading to find the right size, material, features, and type of dog crate for your pup.
Factors to Consider Before You Shop
How to Find the Right Dog Crate Size
Dog Crate Types
Dog Crate Features
Cozy Accessories for Dog Crates
How to Find the Right Dog Crate Size
(Shop this image: furniture-style dog crates, orange table lamps, gray area rugs, blue accent chairs, orange throw pillows)
There are many different dog crate sizes and choosing the right size is crucial. The crate needs to be large enough for your pup to lie down, sit up, stand up, and turn around comfortably. A crate that is too large can result in accidents, while a crate that is too small won’t allow your dog to move comfortably and may go unused.
To find the perfect crate size for your dog, you will need to weigh your dog. Secondly, measure your dog to ensure that the dimensions of that recommended dog crate size are correct for your specific pup’s needs. Knowing these measurements will ensure that you are choosing the right dog crate size for your furry friend. Keep reading below to learn which measurements you will need.
1. Weigh Your Dog
There are six common dog crate sizes: x-small, small, medium, large, x-large, and xx-large. Most of these dog crates are sold with suggested weight ranges and limits along with dimensions. In order to find the correct size, weigh your dog. If you are buying a crate for your puppy, be sure to plan for the average size of the breed. Use the handy table below to see which crate size is best suited for the weight of your pup!
Tip!
If you find that your dog is fully grown and is a bit cramped in their current crate, upgrade to a bigger version so they can be more comfortable. (It’s always better to have a little extra room.)
2. Measure Your Dog
Once you've determined the recommended crate size for your dog, it's important to compare your dog's measurements to your chosen crate. Determining your dog’s weight, length, and height will help you confirm that you are choosing the correct dog crate size. Start by measuring the length of your dog.
Finding the length of your dog will help you choose the right length/depth for your dog crate. To measure the length of your dog, be sure your dog is standing still on all four feet. Measure from the tip of their nose to the top of their tail. If your dog has a thicker tail, measure a few extra inches beyond their tail to allow for more room when they get excited. For smaller dogs, add 2ʺ to your measurement. For larger dogs, add 4ʺ. This will give you the minimum length/depth of your dog crate.
Tip!
If you want to shop primarily by the dimensions of the crate, shop these popular dog crate sizes by depth below.
Next, it is time to measure your dog’s height. Get them to sit down – it may take a treat or two! Measure them in an upright position from the floor to the tallest point of their head. Add 2ʺ–4ʺ to the measurements to get the minimum height that your dog crate should be.
Tip!
If you are adding in a dog bed or pillow, be sure to account for that dimension as well when you are measuring for your dog crate size. You will want to add in a few extra inches depending on the size of the bed.
3. Compare Measurements
Now that you've measured the length and height of your dog, use these measurements as a reference when picking out the perfect crate. Keep in mind that one size crate doesn't fit all! Just because a crate fits the recommended weight range of your dog does not mean that the depth and height of the crate will be a match. When looking at a specific crate, be sure to check the Weights & Dimensions information to ensure you are choosing the right dog crate size for your dog.
Tip!
When choosing a crate size for puppies, you should choose one that's large enough to accommodate them even when they're grown-up. However, puppies like small, safe spaces so you should choose a mature crate size with removable dividers. As they grow, you can adjust or remove the dividers easily.
(Shop this image: metal dog crates, blue area rugs, indoor live plants, striped curtains)
Size isn't the only factor you should consider when buying a dog crate. You should also consider:
Life Stage: The age of your dog is also super important to consider when shopping for a dog crate. For example, puppies have a tendency to chew and leave messes, so it's important to have a chew-proof, cleanable cage. In contrast, older dogs with mobility issues may require a floor-level crate to make stepping in and out easier.
Cleanliness: Cage cleanliness should be top on your list if you have a puppy who is still training or an older dog who has to go to the bathroom more frequently. Many creates have removable pads or trays that you can slide out from under the crate to wash and remove messes. If you have to leave your pup in the crate during your workday, consider crates with grates as the floor material. In these designs, the grated floor has a tray beneath it, so if your pup has to use the bathroom, it will fall through the grate to the tray below and your pup will stay clean.
Portability: Do you want to travel with your dog? Or simply be able to relocate your dog crate to different parts of your home with ease? If so, then portability might be an important factor to look for in a dog crate. Some designs have wheels, handles, or collapsible frames to accommodate you and your lifestyle.
Comfort Level: Most cages have hard tray bottoms and sides, so be sure to add comfortable padding, dog beds, blankets, and other items to make it a cozy place for your dog to snooze the day away.
Crate Material Visibility: Some dogs prefer to see what's going on around them as it lessens anxiety and adds some interest to their day. In contrast, other dogs may enjoy a more private spot with an enclosed feel to get comfortable and relax. Wire crates and other designs have see-through crate walls so your dog can see outside and you can see in. Other crate designs may only have see-through configurations on the front/back walls while keeping the side walls window-less, so be sure to keep you and your dog’s visibility preferences in mind as you shop.
Now that you know the perfect dog crate size, pick out the material that best suits you and your pup. There are multiple options, including metal, plastic, polyester, and wood.
Metal: Metal or wire crates are a great option for puppies because you can use divider panels to allow their crate to grow with them. They allow your pup to see more of what is going on and they are easy to assemble, easy to clean if there are any training mishaps, collapsible/foldable, and breathable. Since metal crates are open and allow for good airflow, this might be an ideal option for you if you live in a warmer climate or have a pup with a long coat. Metal crates tend to have multiple doors, with one on the top and one on the side.
Wood: Wooden crates are a strong, durable, permanent solution for your pup. They can double as a nightstand or side or end table, making it a great option if you want something that blends in with your home decor.
Plastic: Plastic crates are easy to clean, and the handle on the top makes it a great option for transporting your four-legged friend. Plastic crates are not as open as wire crates, making it a go-to option if your dog is shy or reactive to other dogs, because it gives them a sense of privacy. Plastic crates with handles are usually airplane-friendly, but be sure to check with your specific airline beforehand. More on airplane-friendly options in the features section below.
Soft-Sided/Polyester: Similar to a plastic crate, soft-sided or polyester crates provide your pet with privacy and a sense of comfort. Due to their size, they are best for smaller breeds or puppies. They are lightweight and easy to fold and store, making them a good option for an occasional trip with your furry friend rather than a permanent crate.
(Shop this image: wood dog crates, indoor live plants, gray area rugs, circular wall mirrors, wood console table)
Dog crates have many different features to choose from. Whether you are looking for an outdoor-safe crate or a heavy-duty crate, there is an option for you and your furry friend.
Outdoor-Safe: An outdoor-safe dog crate allows your dog to relax outdoors while inside of a safe space. They are durable enough to withstand the elements of the outdoors without wear and tear. Some outdoor-safe dog crates include a canopy to keep your dog dry and out of the sun. Read the manufacturer's instructions before putting your crate and your dog outside.
Portable: Bring your furry friend along for the trip with a portable dog crate. Portable dog crates are great if you find yourself constantly on the go with your dog due to their small size and attached handle. Keep in mind that you will be carrying your dog crate, so they are best suited for puppies or smaller dogs. Check the manufacturer instructions for weight recommendations and airline restrictions.
Double Door: Double-door crates come with two doors. The two doors give you easy access to your dog, no matter where they are snoozing. Having two doors is not only great for letting your dog come and go as they please, but you can place your crate in your home without worrying about blocking the door.
Collapsible: A collapsible dog crate is easy to transport, making it a great, travel-friendly option for your four-legged friend. When you are not using it, the collapsible feature makes it easy to fold up and keep stored away.
Heavy Duty: A heavy-duty dog crate is best suited for large, strong dogs or even smaller dogs who love to chew. It helps keep your dog from escaping, chewing, or bending the wires of their dog crate. This sturdy crate will give you peace of mind, knowing that your dog is safe and secure throughout the day.
Divider Included: If you are looking for a crate that will grow with your dog, opt for a crate that has a divider. It fits inside your crate to block off space. If the crate is too big for your dog, accidents are more likely to happen. Dogs do not want to go to the bathroom in their sleeping area, so this helps to keep the crate the perfect size for your puppy. As your dog gets older and larger, you can adjust the crate to fit the size of your dog’s sleeping area.
Pull-Out Tray-Included: Some crates have features that allow you to slide out the floor of the crate to wash or clean it with ease. This means you don't have to worry about trying to raise the floor tray or trying to maneuver it out of the crate door.
Chew-Resistant: Chew resistant crates are a great option for teething puppies or dogs that chew objects as a response to stress or boredom. These include a number of strong wood, plastic, fabric, or metal crates that are built to last and look good too.
Airline-Approved Dog Crates: Airline-approved dog crates include pet carriers and transportation crates deemed acceptable for air travel. Features include secure lockable doors, ventilation holes, spacing rims to ensure proper ventilation, and other safety features. Always make sure to check with the specific airline before bringing a dog crate with you to fly.
No Assembly Required: There are a variety of dog crates that don't require assembly (like fabric crates) or have easy assembly requirements (like wire crates). With wire crates, the crate comes with the two side panels and the top panel already hooked together, so all you have to do is lift the crate, hook on the door and back panel, add the pan or bottom layer to the inside of the crate, and attach any unhooked parts of the crate. The pan in combination with the interlocking panels helps the crate keep its shape and stay secure. Then you can easily collapse the crate when needed.
(Shop this image: furniture-style dog crates, window pane wall mirrors, orange area rugs, indoor live plants, silver table decor)
Once you have decided on the right dog crate, it’s time to think about what accessories your dog will need in their crate.
Crate Covers: Crate covers come in different styles and colors, making it easy to find something that fits your home decor. A crate cover gives your dog a sense of security, especially if they get nervous or reactive around people, dogs, or noises.
Crate Trays: If you are in the midst of potty training, a crate tray may be just what you need. It allows for easy cleanup if your pup has any accidents inside their crate.
Crate Panels/Dividers: If your crate doesn't come with built-in panels or dividers, you can add your own. Most crate dividers hook onto the sides of a crate and can be moved to create a smaller or larger crate space. This is great for puppies who enjoy smaller sleeping areas.
Crate Casters: Have a stationary dog crate that needs to be portable? Add caster wheels to each corner or set the crate on top of a kennel base with wheels. Be sure to check compatibility with your dog crate before purchasing your wheels.
Crate Toys: If you are leaving your dog alone for a few hours, consider leaving a puzzle or activity in their crate to keep them busy. They will be so focused on getting the treats out, they won’t even notice you are gone!
Dog Beds: Don't forget a dog bed! A comfortable place to sleep can help your dog adjust to the crate environment and make it a positive thing. Dog beds come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and designs, so you can determine the right option for your dog and their crate size.
