Dog Crate Sizes: Find the Right Size for Your Canine

Last Updated on February, 2025

Are you looking for a no-nonsense guide to dog crate sizes? I get it.

You found the RIGHT article.

Finding the right dog crate size is not a head-scratcher. Because I will be covering the inside facts on crate sizes, you can easily choose the PERFECT crate for your dog – with CONFIDENCE!

Remember this tip: Jotting down a few points will make the process much easier!

Quick Summary

The size of a dog crate directly impacts the comfort and safety of your dog. It is important to choose the right size to ensure your dog has enough room to move and lie down comfortably, without feeling cramped or restricted.

Accurately measuring your dog is vital when selecting the appropriate crate size. It is crucial to consider their height, length, and weight, as well as leaving space for them to mature. A crate that is too small can lead to discomfort and limit their mobility, whereas a crate that is too large

To determine the right crate size, consider your dog’s size, gender, and the location of the crate. As your dog grows and changes, reassess and adjust the size accordingly. Additionally, there are different types of crates available, each with their own features and benefits, such as portability, durability, and ventilation.

How Do You Select the Appropriate Size for Your Dog Crate?

dog crate size chart

Dog crate SIZES matter! Remember:

  • Your dog will need a slightly bigger or smaller crate based on whether they’re a girl or a boy.
  • Think about where to put the crate. If it’s near a window or a noisy spot, go for a crate with extra insulation for soundproofing.
  • Choose a crate 6 inches longer than your dog’s body and 6 inches taller than their shoulder.
  • Ensure your dog can quickly enter and exit the crate to avoid stress.

Understood? Now, look at the guide below to find the PERFECT SIZE CRATE for your dog.

Note: You can search based on weight, height, or breed.

Extra Small Sized Dogs (18-22 Inches)

Extra Small Sized Dogs

Suppose your pup weighs up to 25 pounds (11kg). Try an extra small crate, 18-22 inches (45 to 56 cm). Or, you can check out the 24 inches size crate – it works for these extra small-sized dog breeds.

  • Affenpinscher
  • Papillon
  • Teacup Pomeranian
  • Puggle (Pug & Beagle mix)
  • Russian Toy Terrier
  • Teacup Yorkshire Terrier
  • Brussels Griffon
  • Maltipoo (Maltese & Poodle mix)
  • Yorkshire Terrier
  • Morkie (Maltese & Yorkshire Terrier mix)
  • Toy Fox Terrier
  • Toy Poodle
  • Chihuahua
  • Chiweenie (Chihuahua & Dachshund mix)
  • Japanese Chin
  • Maltese

Small Sized Dogs (24 Inches)

Small Sized Dogs

Get the 24-inch small dog crate for your dog. This is perfect for breeds up to 25 pounds (11kg).

  • Australian Terrier
  • Bichon Frise
  • Border Terrier
  • Boston Terrier
  • Cavapoo (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel & Toy Poodle mix)
  • Chinese Crested
  • Dandie Dinmont Terrier
  • Smooth Fox Terrier
  • Havanese
  • Jack Russel Terrier
  • Italian Greyhound
  • Manchester Terrier
  • Tibetan Spaniel
  • Skye Terrier
  • Zuchon (Shih Tzu & Bichon Frise mix)
  • Miniature Poodle
  • Norfolk Terrier
  • Norwich Terrier
  • Parson Russell Terrier
  • Pomeranian
  • Poochon (Poodle & Bichon Frise mix)
  • Pomsky (Pomeranian & Siberian Husky mix)
  • Pug
  • Schipperke
  • Shichon (Shih Tzu & Bichon Frise mix)
  • Shih Poo (Shih Tzu & Toy Poodle mix)
  • Shih Tzu
  • Silky Terrier
  • Yorkie Poo (Yorkshire Terrier & Poodle mix)

Medium Sized Dogs (30 Inches)

Medium Sized Dogs

You can get 30-inch (76 cm) medium crates if your dog weighs between 26 and 40 pounds (12 and 18 kg).

  • American Pit Bull Terrier
  • Redbone Coonhound
  • Scottish Terrier
  • Shetland Collie
  • American Water Spaniel
  • Basenji
  • Tibetan Terrier
  • Welsh Springer Spaniel
  • Cockapoo (Cocker Spaniel & Poodle mix)
  • Cocker Spaniel
  • Dachshund
  • French Bulldog
  • German Pinscher
  • Irish Terrier
  • Lhasa Apso
  • Miniature Pinscher
  • Miniature Schnauzer
  • Pekingese
  • Bedlington Terrier
  • Boykin Spaniel
  • Cairn Terrier
  • Cardigan Welsh Corgi
  • Staffordshire Bull Terrier
  • American Staffordshire Terrier
  • Welsh Terrier
  • West Highland White Terrier
  • Wirehaired Fox Terrier
  • Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Intermediate Sized Dogs (36 Inches)

Intermediate Sized Dogs

If your furry friend weighs between 41 and 70 pounds (18 and 32 kg), get the 36-inch intermediate crates recommended for the following breeds.

  • American Eskimo
  • Australian Cattle Dog
  • Harrier
  • Keeshond
  • Bull Terrier
  • Bulldog
  • Chinese Shar-Pei
  • English Setter
  • English Springer Spaniel
  • Finnish Spitz
  • Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog
  • Basset Hound
  • Bavarian Mountain ScentHound
  • Kerry Blue Terrier
  • Norwegian Elkhound
  • Pembroke Welsh Corgi
  • Beagle
  • Brittany Spaniel
  • Portuguese Water Dog
  • Segugio Italiano
  • Treeing Tennessee Brindle
  • Cardigan Welsh Corgi
  • Staffordshire Bull Terrier
  • Whippet
  • Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
  • Standard Schnauzer
  • Yakutian Laika

Large Sized Dogs (42 Inches)

Large Sized Dogs

If you have a big dog weighing 71 to 90 pounds (32 to 41 kg), go for the 42-inch (107 cm) large dog crate. TRUST ME, they are perfect for dog breeds such as:

  • Airedale Terrier
  • American Bulldog
  • Belgian Tervuren
  • Bernedoodle (Bernese Mountain Dog & Poodle mix)
  • Border Collie
  • Boxer
  • Australian Shepherd
  • Bearded Collie
  • Chesapeake Bay Retriever
  • Gordon Setter
  • Ibizan Hound
  • Irish Setter
  • Dalmatian
  • German Shorthaired Pointer
  • Vizsla
  • Poodle (Standard)

Extra Large Sized Dogs (48 Inches)

Extra Large Sized Dogs

Are your dogs BIG? Well, for big dogs weighing 91 to 110 pounds (41 to 50kg), you should pick the 48-inch (122 cm) extra-large dog crate. This will be the perfect fit!

  • Afghan Hound
  • Akita
  • Bernese Mountain Dog
  • Bloodhound
  • Briard
  • Alaskan Malamute
  • Belgian Malinois
  • Bullmastiff
  • Catahoula Leopard Dog
  • Chinook
  • Boerboel
  • Bouvier Des Flandres
  • Collie
  • Doberman Pinscher
  • Siberian Husky

XXL Sized Dogs (54 Inches)

XXL Sized Dogs

For big dogs like those over 110 pounds (50+ kg), go for the 54 inches (137 cm) XXL crates.

You will never regret picking this if your dog is one of the following breeds:

How Can You Measure the Right Crate Size for Your Dog?

Selecting the appropriate size crate for your dog is essential to ensure their comfort and overall well-being.

However, the procedure is straightforward:

  • First, measure the length of your dog from the nose to the tail tip. Add two inches for small/medium breeds and four for large/extra-large breeds.
  • Next, measure your sitting dog from the floor to the head top (for floppy ears) or the tip of erect ears. And add one inch.
  • Finally, measure the widest part of your dog’s chest and add four inches.

Prioritize your dog’s comfort when choosing the crate size. A little extra room is fine. But cramped spaces can stress your pup! The correct size crate provides a SENSE OF SECURITY for your dog, serving as their den. 

However, if your dog’s crate is too big, it will pee or poop inside even though they don’t like doing this where they eat or sleep. So, it’s your responsibility to choose the correct size crate.

And remember! The crate should be a cozy retreat, not a confinement. Introduce the crate gradually, associating it with positive experiences like toys or treats. But don’t punish!

As your puppy grows, check and adjust the crate size. A well-fitted crate ensures your furry friend feels secure, calm, and content.

Remember, a crate should be a happy place for a dog, not just a space to be confined!

Things to Consider Before Buying the Right Crate for Your Dog

Now that you know the correct crate size for your dog and are eager to make a purchase, hold on! Before you spend money on a crate, consider the following:

Purpose

Decide why you need a dog crate. If it’s mostly for inside use, pick a nice-looking one that matches your dog’s size (including the dog’s height). If it’s for outside use, choose a strong dog crate that can handle different weather.

For travel, go for something easy to carry. Ask a dog trainer for advice if you’re not sure.

Doors

Dog crates can have one, two, or three doors. Each type is suitable for different reasons. One door is fine if you have a good spot for the crate with only one entrance.

Two doors are good if you need more flexibility. But having many dogs will be helpful if you’re dealing with a small dog or a puppy.

Number of Crates

If you travel a lot or have a BIG dog, having more than one crate is a good idea. You can keep one in your vehicle for traveling purposes and another at home for regular use.

So, you don’t always have to carry a big crate in and out of the house (how’s my idea?). This will reduce your burden, too!

Storage

A brown and white dog is sitting in a crate

Think about how easy it is to set up and take down the dog crate. Soft and wire crates are easy if you don’t use them often. And a plastic crate needs more space.

Also, consider the weather. Wire crates are suitable for hot places because they let air in, while plastic ones are better for colder areas.

Note: The size of the dog crate also affects how easy it is to store!

Chewing Habits

Consider your dog’s chewing habits when choosing a crate. If your pup likes to chew a lot, go for a dog crate made of sturdy materials like plastic or heavy-duty options to prevent escape attempts.

Monitoring their behavior during the initial crate training period and offering distractions such as toys can help minimize chewing tendencies.

Temperature Considerations

Select a crate based on your local climate if you love your dog. In hot areas, choose a wire crate for better ventilation, and consider adding a fan or placing a towel on top for cooling.

If you’re living in a colder region, a plastic crate is good, as it provides insulation to keep your dog warm and comfy!

Duration of Use

Selecting the right crate for your dog’s confinement depends on the duration of the use. Short durations are well-suited for a soft-sided crate, offering comfort and ease.

However, a more secure wire or plastic crate is essential for extended periods to prevent escapes and ensure your dog’s safety. These options provide a stable environment, minimizing the risk of anxiety and accidents.

Common Crate Dimensions

different size of crates

To find the perfect crate size for your dog, check out the chart at the top of this article. This chart helps you figure out the right dimensions based on your dog’s height and length.

Dog TypeSize
Extra Small Size Dog(18″Length x 12″Width x 14″Height or 22″Length x 13″Width x 16″Height)
Small Size Dog(24″Length x 18″Width x 19″Height or 24″Length x 18″Width x 21″Height)
Medium Size Dog(30″Length x 21″Width x 24″Height or 30″Length x 19″Width x 21″Height)
Intermediate Size Dog(36″Length x 24″Width x 27″Height or 36″Length x 23″Width x 25″Height)
Large Size Dog(42″Length x 28″Width x 31″Height or 42″Length x 28″Width x 30″Height)
Extra Large Size Dog(46″Length x 30″Width x 33″Height or 48”Length x 30”Width x 32.5”Height)
XXL or Giant Size Dog(54″Length x 35″Width x 45″Height)

Notes: Make sure the crate you choose lets your dog stand up fully and stretch out comfortably when sleeping without feeling cramped.

Grab one with a dividing panel if you’re getting a crate for a puppy. It lets you change the crate size as your pup grows, so they always have a comfy spot that fits them just right.

Alphabetized Breed List

Listen, I have further SIMPLIFIED your task. The table below is arranged alphabetically, offering an alternative way to find the proper size dog crate.

Take a look.

NoBreed SizeWeight
01Afghan48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
02Affenpinscher22XSup to 25 lbs.
03Airedale Terrier42XL71 – 90 lbs.
04Akita48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
05Alaskan Malamute48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
06American BullDog42XL71 – 90 lbs.
07American Eskimo36L41 – 70 lbs.
08American Pit Bull Terrier30M26 – 40 lbs.
09American Staffordshire Terrier30M26 – 40 lbs.
10American Water Spaniel30M26 – 40 lbs.
11Anatolian Shepherd48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
12Aussiedoodle42XL71 – 90 lbs.
13Australian Cattle Dog36L41 – 70 lbs.
14Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog36L41 – 70 lbs.
15Australian Kelpie42XL71 – 90 lbs.
16Australian Shepherd42XL71 – 90 lbs.
17Australian Terrier24Sup to 25 lbs.
18Basenji30M26 – 40 lbs.
19Basset Hound36L41 – 70 lbs.
20Bavarian Mountain ScentHound36L41 – 70 lbs.
21Beagle36L41 – 70 lbs.
22Bearded Collie42XL71 – 90 lbs.
23Bedlington Terrier30M26 – 40 lbs.
24Belgian Malinois42XL71 – 90 lbs.
25Belgian Sheepdog42XL71 – 90 lbs.
26Belgian Tervuren42XL71 – 90 lbs.
27Bernedoodle42XL71 – 90 lbs.
28Bernese Mountain Dog48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
29Bichon Frise24Sup to 25 lbs.
30Bloodhound48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
31Boerboel48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
32Border Collie42XL71 – 90 lbs.
33Border Terrier24Sup to 25 lbs.
34Borzoi54Gover 110 lbs.
35Boston Terrier24Sup to 25 lbs.
36Bouvier Des Flandres48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
37Boxer42XL71 – 90 lbs.
38Boykin Spaniel30M26 – 40 lbs.
39Briard48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
40Brittany Spaniel36L41 – 70 lbs.
41Broholmer54Gover 110 lbs.
42Brussels Griffon22XSup to 25 lbs.
43Bull Terrier36L41 – 70 lbs.
44Bulldog36L41 – 70 lbs.
45Bullmastiff48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
46Catahoula Leopard Dog48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
47Cardigan Welsh Corgi30M26 – 40 lbs.
48Cairn Terrier30M26 – 40 lbs.
49Cavapoo22XSup to 25 lbs.
50Chesapeake Bay Retriever42XL71 – 90 lbs.
51Chihuahua22XSup to 25 lbs.
52Chinese Crested24Sup to 25 lbs.
53Chinese Shar-Pei36Large41 – 70 lbs.
54Chinook48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
55Chiweenie22XSup to 25 lbs.
56Chow-Chow42XL71 – 90 lbs.
57Clumber Spaniel30M26 – 40 lbs.
58Cocker Spaniel36L41 – 70 lbs.
59Collie48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
60Dachshund30M26 – 40 lbs.
61Dalmatian42XL71 – 90 lbs.
62Doberman Pinscher48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
63Dogue De Bordeaux48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
64English Setter36L41 – 70 lbs.
65English Springer Spaniel36L41 – 70 lbs.
66Finnish Spitz36L41 – 70 lbs.
67Fox Terrier24Sup to 25 lbs.
68French Bulldog30M26 – 40 lbs.
69German Pinscher30M50 – 60 lbs.
70German Shepherd48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
71Giant Schnauzer48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
72Golden Retriever42XL71 – 90 lbs.
73Goldendoodle42XL71 – 90 lbs.
74Gordon Setter42XL71 – 90 lbs.
75Great Dane54Gover 110 lbs.
76Great Pyrenees54Gover 110 lbs.
77Greyhound48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
78Harrier36L41 – 70 lbs.
79Havanese24Sup to 25 lbs.
80Ibizan Hound42XL71 – 90 lbs.
81Irish Setter42XL71 – 90 lbs.
82Irish Terrier30M50 – 60 lbs.
83Irish Water Spaniel42XL71 – 90 lbs.
84Irish Wolfhound54Gover 110 lbs.
85Italian Greyhound24Sup to 25 lbs.
86Jack Russel Terrier24Sup to 25 lbs.
87Japanese Chin22XSup to 25 lbs.
88Keeshond36L41 – 70 lbs.
89Kerry Blue Terrier36L41 – 70 lbs.
90King Charles Spaniel30M26 – 40 lbs.
91Komondor48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
92Kuvasz48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
93Labrador Retriever42XL71 – 90 lbs.
94Leonberger54Gover 110 lbs.
95Lhasa Apso30M26 – 40 lbs.
96Malinois48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
97Maltese22XSup to 25 lbs.
98Maltipoo22XSup to 25 lbs.
99Manchester Terrier24Sup to 25 lbs.
100Mastiff54Gover 110 lbs.
101Miniature Dachshund24Sup to 25 lbs.
102Miniature Pinscher30M26 – 40 lbs.
103Miniature Poodle24Sup to 25 lbs.
104Miniature Schnauzer30M26 – 40 lbs.
105Morkie2XSup to 25 lbs.
106Neapolitan Mastiff54Gover 110 lbs.
107Newfoundland48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
108Norfolk Terrier24Sup to 25 lbs.
109Norwegian Elkhound36L41 – 70 lbs.
110Norwich Terrier24Sup to 25 lbs.
111Old English Sheepdog48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
112Otterhound48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
113Papillon22XSup to 25 lbs.
114Parson Russell Terrier24Sup to 40 lbs.
115Pekingese30M26 – 40 lbs.
116Pharaoh Hound42XL71 – 90 lbs.
117Plott Hound42XL71 – 90 lbs.
118Pointer48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
119Pomeranian22XSup to 25 lbs.
120Pomsky24Sup to 40 lbs.
121Poochon24Sup to 40 lbs.
122Poodle (Small)24Sup to 40 lbs.
123Poodle (Standard)42XL71 – 90 lbs.
124Portuguese Water Dog36L41 – 70 lbs.
125Pug24Sup to 25 lbs.
126Puggle22XSup to 25 lbs.
127Redbone Coonhound30M26 – 40 lbs.
128Rhodesian Ridgeback42XL71 – 90 lbs.
129Rottweiler48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
130Russian Toy22XSup to 25 lbs.
131Russian Bear Dog54Gover 110 lbs.
132Saluki42XL71 – 90 lbs.
133Samoyed48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
134Schipperke24Sup to 40 lbs.
135Schnauzer24Sup to 40 lbs.
136Schnoodle42XL71 – 90 lbs.
137Scottish Deerhound54Gover 110 lbs.
138Scottish Terrier30M26 – 40 lbs.
139Segugio Italiano36L41 – 70 lbs.
140Sheepadoodle42XL71 – 90 lbs.
141Shetland Sheepdog30M26 – 40 lbs.
142Shih Tzu24Sup to 25 lbs.
143Siberian Husky48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
144Silky Terrier24Sup to 25 lbs.
145Skye Terrier24Sup to 25 lbs.
146Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier36L41 – 70 lbs.
147St. Bernard54Gover 110 lbs.
148Standard Schnauzer36L41 – 70 lbs.
149Staffordshire Terrier30M26 – 40 lbs.
150Teacup Yorkshire Terrier22XSup to 25 lbs.
151Terrier24Sup to 25 lbs.
152Tervueren48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
153Tibetan Spaniel24Sup to 25 lbs.
154Tibetan Terrier30M26 – 40 lbs.
155Toy Fox Terrier22XSup to 25 lbs.
156Toy Poodle24Sup to 25 lbs.
157Treeing Tennessee Brindle36L41 – 70 lbs.
158Vizsla42XL71 – 90 lbs.
159Weimaraner48XXL91 – 110 lbs.
160Welsh Corgi36L41 – 70 lbs.
161Welsh Springer Spaniel30M26 – 40 lbs.
162Welsh Terrier30M26 – 40 lbs.
163West Highland Terrier30M26 – 40 lbs.
164Whippet36L41 – 70 lbs.
165Fox Terrier24Sup to 40 lbs.
166Yakutian Laika36L41-70 lbs.
167Yorkie Poo22XSup to 25 lbs.
168Yorkshire22XSup to 25 lbs.

How Do You Make Your Dog Comfortable in a Crate?

Once you’ve picked the right crate for your dog, SET UP with a few essentials. Consider your dog’s habits – some will snuggle up while others see bedding as a fair game for chewing.

So, remember! Knowing your dog’s style will prevent surprise VET visits.

Do you know? If your dog tends to tear up their bedding, it might be a sign they need more exercise or mental stimulation before crate time.

Here’s a tip: Use a simple crate mat to AVOID chewing your dog’s chewing habit.

I have mentioned this several times, but this is very important. Make sure your dog’s crate fits well. So your pup will stretch out comfortably.

KONG Extreme Goodie Bone
Pet Zone IQ Treat Ball

Now, add the basics for a well-equipped crate. Keep a water bowl for refreshment. Interactive toys like the KONG Extreme Goodie Bone or the Pet Zone IQ treat ball will keep your dog entertained.

This way, you can make the crate a comfortable and enjoyable space for your dog. 

What are the Best Types of Dog Crates?

Do you know? In World War II, dog crates were initially created to transport military dogs using wooden slat crates. In the 1960s, the airline industry commissioned a man to develop wooden crates for pet transport, leading to their evaluation over time.

NOW, you have a variety of dog crates – to make your dog comfortable!

Dog Crate Furniture

New Age Pet ecoFLEX Crate & End Table

Forget the old-school crates. Dog crate furniture is an excellent, practical solution that adds style to parenting. Ones like the ‘New Age Pet ecoFLEX Crate & End Table’ are mostly made of wood and double up as a nifty end or accent table.

These crates are perfect for smaller dog breeds, especially when you don’t have a separate spot to create your pup (no need to sacrifice your home’s vibe for your pet’s comfort).

Pros

Blends stylishly with home decor.
It is ideal for smaller breeds and integrates into the main living space.
Crafted from durable materials, it ensures a secure space for pets.
Easy access doors for attending to pets.
It can be positioned anywhere in your home for flexibility.

Cons

Expensive.
Absorb odor.

Wire Crate

The Wire crate is an essential structure crafted from durable metal, designed to offer your canine companion a clear view of their surroundings while ensuring optimal airflow.

One notable wire crate option is ‘Lucky Dog Dwell Series Crates’.

Do you know? They have a removable plastic bottom for easy cleaning. Some models also include dividers, adding their versatility.

The thick wire edges are smoothly furnished, ensuring your dog’s safety. But sizes vary, ranging from 24 to 54 inches.

Lucky Dog® Dwell

So, choose a crate size based on your dog’s size. Wire crates are generally heavy due to their thick wire construction but often fold for convenient storage.

And wheels are available for some models – but come at a higher cost. In simple terms, wire crates are portable and easy to maintain.

Pros

Allows air circulation inside.
A clear view of the surroundings for your dog.

Cons

It can rust with time.

Combination Crate

Combination crates are like all-in-one crates that take the good things from different types. They usually have the benefits of both wire and a plastic crate. Some even have wheels and extra stuff, making them easy to carry around.

So, you get a crate that’s strong like wire and handy like plastic – a SIMPLE solution for keeping your dog comfy!

Pros

Wheels at the bottom and easy access make traveling easy.

Cons

Hard to set up and heavy.

Soft Dog Crate

Soft crates offer lightweight and portable solutions for pet owners, perfect for traveling and those on the move.

A soft-sided crate, like the Frisco Indoor & Outdoor Soft Dog Crate,’ is quick to set up and fold away easily – when not in use.

They often feature multiple doors, providing convenient access options for your dog.

WARRANTY? Yes, many of the soft dog crates have a one-year warranty. 

But Remember! Warranties only safeguard against problems that occur during the manufacturing process.

Frisco Indoor Outdoor 3 Door Collapsible crate

They won’t cover damage caused by your dog, such as tearing the mesh or chewing the zip. 

Note: Check the details of each warranty before making your decision.

Pros

Easy when traveling in airlines – to use in cabins.
Not heavy, storage is easy.
Easy to collapse.

Cons

It’s not durable as it’s made of soft materials.
Hard to clean.

Heavy Duty and Extra Large Dog Crate

Heavy-duty and extra-large dog crates are made of coated metal or high-grade steel.

They feature multiple strong latches, preventing clever dogs from escaping.

GUESS WHAT? Assembling takes less than 2 minutes, and the crate is easily foldable for storage.

Its metal frame is sturdy, and the door’s design allows convenient access. The door has a robust latch, and the crate can be padlocked.

The grate floor keeps the environment clean, and the metal tray is easily removable for cleaning.

Collapsible Dog Crate

Note: The optional waterproof covers and mattresses are available for added convenience.

Crates like IMPACT Collapsible are IDEAL for training and containing large, strong dogs.

Pros

Durable.
Escape prevention.

Cons

Heavy.

What are Some Dog Crate Accessories?

A dog crate tray
A black dog crate with a dog crate caster
a dog crate cover in a dog crate

Your responsibility will continue after buying the correct size crate for your dog. Consider adding these extra crate accessories for your dog – to keep them comfortable!

Crate Trays

Sturdy, removable pans are suitable for housetraining because they slide out easily for cleaning and are helpful for messy situations like muddy paws or spills from food and water bowls.

Crate Casters

Casters are a great solution to move your dog crate quickly. These wheels attach to most wire crates and can be locked when you’ve positioned the crate where you want it.

Dog Crate Covers

These dog crate covers slip over your puppy’s crate, creating a cozy space for your dog. They offer privacy and quietness (they come in different sizes, colors, and patterns with tabs to secure them). They’re lightweight, allowing good airflow.

A High-Walled Kennel Mat

Petmate Cozy Kennel Mat

Make sure to get a kennel mat for your dog’s crate. The Petmate Cozy Kennel Mat is perfect – with high walls that make your dog feel safe. The soft, plush fabric keeps them warm and comfortable (it comes in various sizes).

A Well-Placed Water Bowl

Petmate Kennel Cup

Keep a well-placed water bowl for your dog’s nighttime thirst.Petmate Kennel Cup fits on any wire door; you can refill it without removing it. Just pour water into the outside spout, filling the inside bowl.

(You can choose single or double cup options.) 

A Soft Blanket 

If your dog loves to cuddle, you should not skip this option. Because blankets will make dogs feel secure, reduce stress, and help with anxiety – especially if the blanket smells familiar!

What are Some Popular Dog Crate Brands?

I can ASSURE you that you will always be happy buying a dog crate for your dog in one of the following brands.

Benefits of Dog Crates for You and Your Dog

Dog crates offer several benefits for you and your dog. As a dog owner, it’s essential to be aware of these advantages to ensure your dog’s well-being and proper care.

Benefits for You

Travel Convenience

Dog crates imply transportation and ensure your dog’s safety while traveling. And it is helpful during trips or visits, ensuring your dog has a familiar space.

Facilitates Training

A dog crate is an excellent option to teach your dog obedience and good behavior. It aids in housebreaking by limiting accidents and promoting a routine.

Peace of Mind

Dog crates provide a secure and safe environment for your dog in situations where direct supervision is not possible. This will also reduce the risk of your dog’s destructive behavior. This will put your mind at peace.

Manages the Time

A dog crate helps streamline feeding times by helping you maintain a consistent and controlled diet. Plus, it allows you to attend to daily tasks or work commitments without considering your dog’s safety. 

Other

Dog crates are helpful during social gatherings by preventing overstimulation and stress.

Also, it can be a refuge from the other pets as it will reduce potential conflicts.A dog crate offers a relaxing and familiar environment for your canine to relax.

Benefits for Your Dog

Safety

A dog crate will make your dog feel safe and secure (especially your older dogs). It will also help your dog alleviate anxiety during challenging situations.The correct size crate, resembling a den, will also enhance the sense of privacy.

Comfort

If you crate-train your dog, VET visits become less stressful as the dog crate serves as a familiar space for your dog.

Bowel Control

Choosing an appropriate dog crate size limits the too much space for a dog to pee or poop, as the dogs tend to avoid soiling their crate.

Associating outdoor spaces with bathroom breaks reinforces your dog’s ability to wait until it is outside the dog crate to relieve itself (but they need crate training).

Sense of Belonging

Dog crates allow them to be present in the room during household activities by preventing loneliness because they love staying indoors with their human family.

This gives most dogs a sense of belonging to the family. Crates facilitate this, even in the absence of direct supervision.

Dog Crate Training

labrador puppies seen in a wooden crate and a metal crate

This process DEMANDS time, patience, and understanding. But first, you should know the following key factors before starting crate training.

  • Crates are not cages but serve as a den for most dogs, offering a sense of security.
  • Avoid using crates as a punishment tool, as it can make your dog associate it with insecurity.
  • Praise your dog while they’re in the crate to reinforce positive behavior.

Understood? Now, here is the dog crate training process: STEP-BY-STEP.

  • Help your puppy get familiar with the crate by Introducing the crate in the common area with the door open to make your dog comfortable.
  • Play around the dog crate with your dog by tossing toys inside to associate it with fun.
  • Reward your dog with treats for entering the crate to appreciate its positive behavior.
  • Eventually, start feeding their meals in the dog crate.
  • Be consistent with short crating periods initially, and gradually increase the duration based on your dog’s comfort.
  • Finally, train to leave your dog alone in the crate, reward its calm behavior, and ensure potty training.

Note: If your dog has separation anxiety, it should not be crate-trained.

Understand This as a Dog Owner

If your dog looks stressed in the crate, toss some toys. It’s like a stress ball for dogs. TRUST ME. Playing helps them chill and burn off energy.

Remember! A tired dog is a happy dog. 

And about crate size – make sure it’s not too tight. A cramped space will stress them out. They need some breathing room (dogs have feelings, just like us).

Now, dog beds. You know what? Some pups love them, especially the little ones. But every dog is different. Test them with a cheap bed FIRST. Some dogs, especially the chewers, are good without dog beds.

And when it comes to older or achy dogs, a comfy bed is a must. Go sturdy, and for seniors, waterproof is the BEST option. Because they will pee or poop, right?

Conclusion

Picking the correct dog crate size is CRUCIAL (it’s not like buying candy).

You should measure your dog, pick the right style, and give your pup time to feel that comfort. Leave room for them. Because your puppy grows (like you), right?

Now that you know the dog crate size, get ready for the training part!

FAQs

The size of the dog crate is crucial for ensuring your dog’s comfort and well-being. The crate should accommodate their ability to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably, creating a peaceful and secure environment for them.

It is recommended to have two crates in the bedroom and one in the living room, with the dog sleeping in the same room as the owner for enhanced security and trust-building.

No, a dog’s crate will not affect its natural growth. The dog will reach its full size regardless of time spent in the crate.

You should adjust your dog’s crate size as it grows. To determine the necessary length, measure from its nose to the bottom of its tail.

The maximum recommended time for a dog to spend in a crate is 6-8 hours. However, prolonged confinement can have negative effects on both the physical and mental health of a dog.

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Author
Stefano Giachetti
Stefano Giachetti is always excited to share his knowledge and love of animals with you through our blog, IPetGuides. And he has always loved animals and has been blessed to have many pets throughout his life. Currently has a Pomeranian Dog Breed.

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