One common struggle among dog owners is finding the perfect crate size for their den animals. Anything too small can feel like a cramped prison, while one that’s too large can diminish your dog’s sense of security.
This makes your search overwhelming, especially since choosing your dog’s perfect crate goes beyond knowing their proportions. You have to factor in their growth rate and the bedding you need to place inside to get your dog comfortable in their den-like space.
In this expert guide, we’ll tackle these common pain points and provide you with the insights needed to choose the perfect dog crate size. You’ll also learn the factors to consider when choosing one and more as you keep reading.
How to Pick the Right Dog Crate Size
The best crate size for your dog is initially determined by their measurements. Here’s how you can assess if the equipment is right for your canine:
- Your dog can fit through the crate’s door, can stand up and turn around inside, and sit comfortably.
- If your dog sits inside the crate, there’s at least two inches of clearance above their head.
- Your dog should be able to lie inside the dog crate with their limbs fully extended.
Note: You must ensure that the crate isn’t too tight for your dog, or it will make crate training unpleasant. A too-large crate isn’t ideal either, as it could lead to accidents, especially if it’s being used as a housebreaking aid.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Dog’s Crate Size
Choosing your dog’s crate size is about creating a comfortable, safe space that meets your dog’s specific needs and preferences.
Below are the key factors you must consider when selecting your canine’s crate size:
Your Dog’s Measurements
Your dog’s measurements refer to their height and length. For their height, you must measure them from the top of their head (or ears, if they stand erect) to the floor. As for their length, measure them from the top of their nose down to the tail’s base.
Add a few inches to these dimensions to ensure your canine can stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably within the crate.
Breed
The crate size you choose also varies according to your dog’s breed. As you know, different dog breeds have different body shapes, sizes, and temperaments. For example, larger breeds like Mastiffs and German Shepherd Dogs need more crate space compared to smaller ones like Pomeranians and Shih Tzus.
Moreover, if you want to avoid frequently purchasing a dog crate, consider that large breeds grow faster than smaller breeds. Understanding their typical growth patterns will significantly help you choose the right crate size that best accommodates your dog’s needs.
Crate Bedding
The dog bedding you choose to place inside the crate also influences the overall size requirements. If you’re opting for a thick, comfortable bed or mat, this will take up some space inside the crate.
That said, ensure your crate has enough room to fit the preferred bedding without restricting your dog’s ability to move. This will make your dog’s space more inviting and cozy.
Dog Crate Size Chart
Refer to the dog crate size chart below to have a general idea of what crate dimensions you should get for your dog:
| Breed | Average Weight (lbs) | Size Category | Recommended Crate Size (inches) |
| Affenpinscher | 7 – 10 | XS | 18 – 22 |
| Chihuahua | 4 | XS | 18 – 22 |
| Pomeranian | 5 | XS | 18 – 22 |
| Pug | 18 | S | 24 – 30 |
| French Bulldog | 28 | S | 24 – 30 |
| Beagle | 25 | M | 30 – 36 |
| Bulldog | 50 | M | 36 – 42 |
| Border Collie | 45 | M | 36 – 42 |
| Labrador Retriever | 70 | L | 42 – 48 |
| Golden Retriever | 70 | L | 42 – 48 |
| Rottweiler | 100 | L | 48 – 54 |
| German Shepherd | 75 | L | 48 – 54 |
| Great Dane | 150 | XL | 54 – 60 |
| Saint Bernard | 160 | XL | 54 – 60 |
| Basenji | 22 – 24 | S | 24 – 30 |
| Basset Hound | 40 – 65 | M | 30 – 36 |
| Bernese Mountain Dog | 70 – 115 | L | 42 – 48 |
| Boston Terrier | 12 – 25 | S | 24 – 30 |
| Boxer | 65 – 80 | L | 42 – 48 |
| Bullmastiff | 100 – 130 | XL | 48 – 54 |
| Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | 13 – 18 | S | 24 – 30 |
| Dachshund | 16 – 32 | S | 24 – 30 |
| Dalmatian | 45 – 70 | M | 36 – 42 |
| Doberman Pinscher | 60 – 100 | L | 42 – 48 |
| English Springer Spaniel | 40 – 50 | M | 30 – 36 |
| German Shorthaired Pointer | 55 – 70 | L | 42 – 48 |
| Great Pyrenees | 85 – 115 | XL | 48 – 54 |
| Havanese | 7 – 13 | XS | 18 – 22 |
| Irish Wolfhound | 105 – 120 | XL | 54 – 60 |
| Jack Russell Terrier | 13 – 17 | S | 24 – 30 |
| Maltese | 6 – 7 | XS | 18 – 22 |
| Miniature Schnauzer | 11 – 20 | S | 24 – 30 |
| Newfoundland | 100 – 150 | XL | 54 – 60 |
| Papillon | 5 – 10 | XS | 18 – 22 |
| Pembroke Welsh Corgi | 24 – 30 | S | 24 – 30 |
| Poodle (Standard) | 60 – 70 | L | 42 – 48 |
| Poodle (Toy) | 4 – 6 | XS | 18 – 22 |
| Rhodesian Ridgeback | 70 – 85 | L | 42 – 48 |
| Samoyed | 50 – 60 | M | 36 – 42 |
| Shih Tzu | 9 – 16 | XS | 18 – 22 |
| Siberian Husky | 35 – 60 | M | 36 – 42 |
| Standard Poodle | 40 – 70 | M – XL | 42 – 48 |
| Vizsla | 44 – 60 | M | 36 – 42 |
| Weimaraner | 55 – 85 | L | 42 – 48 |
| West Highland White Terrier | 15 – 20 | S | 24 – 30 |
| Whippet | 25 – 40 | S | 24 – 30 |
| Yorkshire Terrier | 7 | XS | 18 – 22 |
Note: This is a general sizing recommendation, so it must be used as a guide only. Ultimately, your decision must be based according to your dog’s specific proportions:
Picking the Right Dog Crate Size for a Puppy
If you have a puppy, picking the right crate size becomes even more daunting since they grow up fairly quickly in size and weight.
Addressing that can be done via two solutions:
Use Dividers
If you have a puppy, one of the most practical solutions is to invest in a large dog crate with a divider. A divider allows you to adjust the crate’s interior space as your puppy grows.
Initially, you can place a divider inside to create a smaller area that fits your puppy’s current size. This is helpful when potty training since the limited space discourages them from soiling their sleeping area.
As they grow, you can gradually move the divider to provide more space, ultimately using the entire dog crate once your puppy reaches their adult size.
Purchase Many Crates
Another approach is to buy multiple crates that cater to different stages of your puppy’s growth. You can start with a smaller dog crate and then upgrade to a larger one as your puppy grows.
This method ensures the crate size is always perfectly suited to your puppy’s current needs. Indeed, this can be costlier than using a divider, but it ensures a precise fit at every stage of growth. This is also particularly beneficial if you plan to use the smaller crates for travel or temporary housing in different locations.
Other Considerations When Choosing the Right Dog Crate Size
Choosing the right dog crate size also involves considering the specific needs of various situations. Beyond the measurements of your dog, you must also think about where and how the crate will be used. This is whether it’s for travel, convenience, or home use.
Each scenario has unique requirements, and these can influence your choice.
For Travel
Choose a travel crate that is appropriately sized for your dog and compliant with car or air travel regulations. The crate should provide enough space for your dog to move and lie inside comfortably yet be compact enough to fit into designated travel areas.
Additionally, travel crates should be crash-tested, secure, and well-ventilated to ensure your dog’s safety and comfort during the journey. Portable features such as handles or wheels can also make transporting the crate easier.
For Home-Use
When the crate is primarily for home use, comfort and aesthetics become important considerations. Choose a crate that complements your home decor while providing a comfortable space for your dog.
Larger, more permanent crates can be fitted with cozy bedding and positioned in a quiet, secure area of your home to serve as a sanctuary for your dog. Additionally, consider crates with dual-purpose features, such as those that double as furniture, like end tables or benches, to integrate seamlessly into your living space.
Ensure the crate is large enough for your dog to move around freely and is made from durable materials to withstand daily use.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Room Should My Dog Have in a Crate?
Your dog should have enough room in a crate to stand up without hitting their head, turn around easily, and lie down with their legs stretched out.
The crate should be 2-4 inches taller and longer than your dog’s dimensions. This sizing maintains a cozy, den-like appeal while ensuring comfort and security, which is crucial for reducing anxiety and promoting positive crate training experiences.
Should a Dog Crate Be Bigger Than a Dog?
A dog crate should be bigger than the dog to accommodate growth, comfort, and overall well-being. Providing a few extra inches in height and length ensures that your dog has enough space to move freely, which is crucial for their physical health and comfort.
A slightly larger crate also prevents the dog from feeling cramped or restricted, reducing anxiety and making the crate a more inviting and pleasant environment. This extra space is especially important for long-term use, as it allows the dog to maintain a comfortable posture and avoid muscle or joint issues.
How Big Should a Dog Bed Be in a Crate?
The dog bed in a crate should fit snugly within the crate’s dimensions, covering the entire floor area without bunching up or leaving gaps. It should provide a comfortable and supportive surface for your dog to rest on, enhancing the overall coziness of the crate.
A well-fitted bed ensures that your dog can lie down and stretch out comfortably, making the crate a welcoming and restful space.
Final Word
Choosing the right dog crate size is crucial for your dog’s comfort, safety, and well-being. Whether you’re crate training a new puppy or providing a secure space for an adult dog, the crate must be appropriately sized to meet their needs.
By considering factors such as your dog’s measurements, breed, and the crate’s intended use, you can ensure that it will be a cozy and inviting space for your pet.
Remember, a well-sized crate can make all the difference in promoting positive behaviors and reducing anxiety, making it an essential part of your dog’s care routine.
Key Takeaways
- The dog crate should be spacious enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down with their limbs fully extended.
- Use a dog crate size chart to match the crate dimensions with your dog’s breed and weight. Larger breeds like German Shepherds and Great Danes require more room, while smaller breeds like Pomeranians and Shih Tzus need less.
- For travel, choose a crate that is crash-tested and has secure, portable features. For home use, prioritize aesthetics and comfort while ensuring your dog’s ease and security.
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