PetsCareLab
Crates serve as cozy sanctuaries for dogs, perfectly catering to their natural instinct to seek out snug, secure spaces. Often described as den animals, dogs instinctively retreat to their dens during times of illness, injury, anxiety, while nurturing their puppies, or simply when they crave a quiet retreat to rest. By offering a designated safe haven within our homes, we can significantly enhance their comfort and overall wellbeing.
Beyond comfort, crate training plays a vital role in keeping our canine companions safe when unsupervised and in preventing undesirable behaviors like destructive chewing. When it comes to house-training puppies, a properly sized crate becomes an invaluable tool.
With a vast array of dog crate sizes and styles available, selecting the perfect crate for your furry friend can feel daunting. Here’s what you need to know to make the best choice.
Choosing the Right Dog Crate Size
To ensure the crate fits your dog comfortably, consider these key guidelines:
- Your dog should be able to stand up easily, pass through the doorway without squeezing, and turn around inside the crate without restriction.
- When sitting, there should be at least 2 inches of clearance above your dog’s head to allow comfortable movement.
- While lying on their side, your dog’s limbs should be fully extended without feeling cramped.
If any of these criteria feel too tight, it’s wise to choose the next size up. A cramped crate can foster discomfort and resistance to crate training, while an overly large crate may hinder house training by providing space for accidents.
How To Find a Crate for Your Dog’s Size
Rather than relying solely on your dog’s weight or breed, it’s crucial to base your crate choice on precise measurements. Since every dog’s build is unique, use a measuring tape for the most accurate assessment.
Measure your dog’s dimensions carefully—not just their weight or breed—to pick the perfect crate size.
Remember to factor in the space required for crate mats or beds, as these will occupy additional room inside the crate. Consider the type of bedding you plan to use when gauging space requirements.
Dog Crate Sizing Chart
| Crate Size (L x W x H) | Dog Weight | Dog Length | Dog Height | Breeds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18” x 12” x 14” | Up to 6 pounds | Up to 10 inches | Up to 10 inches | Toy breed puppies |
| 22” x 14” x 16” | Up to 12 pounds | Up to 16 inches | Up to 12 inches | Chihuahua, Maltese, Yorkie, Pomeranian |
| 24” x 18” x 20” | 13–25 pounds | Up to 18 inches | Up to 14 inches | Shih Tzu, Bichon Frise, Havanese |
| 30” x 20” x 23” | 26–40 pounds | Up to 24 inches | Up to 18 inches | Beagle, French Bulldog, Boston Terrier, Corgi |
| 36” x 24” x 26” | 41–70 pounds | Up to 30 inches | Up to 20 inches | English Bulldog, Bull Terrier, Australian Cattle Dog, Pit Bull Terrier |
| 42” x 28” x 30” | 71–90 pounds | Up to 36 inches | Up to 24 inches | Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Boxer |
| 48” x 30” x 32” | 90–110 pounds | Up to 42 inches | Up to 26 inches | Bernese Mountain Dog, German Shepherd, Rottweiler |
How To Pick a Puppy Crate
Puppies grow quickly, so choosing a crate that accommodates their development is essential. Here are some smart strategies:
- Purchase a crate sized for your puppy’s anticipated adult size and use a removable divider. As your puppy grows, adjust the divider to expand their space gradually. If the crate lacks a divider, block off unused space with cushions or bedding to create a cozy, appropriately sized area.
- Alternatively, buy several crates in succession as your puppy grows. This works best if their adult size is hard to predict.
When selecting a puppy crate, consider their potty training and teething phases. Opt for materials that are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to chewing to withstand enthusiastic young mouths.
Coated steel wire crates are excellent choices—they offer rugged durability, excellent ventilation, are easy to maintain, and allow your pup to see their surroundings. If your dog prefers a more enclosed environment, you can add a removable crate cover for added coziness.
Other Considerations When Finding the Best Dog Crate
Several additional factors can help tailor your crate choice to your lifestyle and your dog’s needs.
If you regularly travel with your pet, an airline-approved travel crate may be a perfect fit. Introducing your dog to their travel crate well before the trip helps reduce anxiety and fosters a positive association.
Consider your space constraints too. If a side entrance is more practical than a front entrance, or if you’d prefer a crate with dual entrances for flexibility, these features are worth prioritizing.
For crates placed in living areas, wooden or furniture-style crates can blend seamlessly with your home décor, harmonizing style and function. Always reflect on where and how the crate will be used to find the ideal match for your furry friend.
