What size dog crate do you need? This is the kind of question you should be asking if you are planning to bring a puppy into your home in the near future. You certainly want to have a place for your favorite four legged friend to feel comfortable and safe within your household. Moreover, you definitely don’t want to rack up huge bills by placing them in a high cost doggie hotel or day care when you need a sitter for a few hours.
So how do you go about finding out what size crate best fits the needs of your dog? There are a number of very simple steps that you can take in order to come to this conclusion. I’ll outline a few of them below and then explain them to you in more detail.
Dog Crate Sizing Chart
When it comes to charting dog crate sizes, a number of factors will come into play. These include how large or small your dog is versus the average weight and size of the crate that will best fit them.
There are a number of convenient measurements that you can bring into play in order to help you choose the best possible accommodation for your pet.
| Crate Size | Max Weight (lbs) | Max Length (in) | Max Height (in) | Example Breeds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XX Small | 10 | 16 | 9 | Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Yorkshire Terrier |
| Extra Small | 15 | 18 | 11 | Maltese, Pekingese, Dachshund |
| Small | 25 | 22 | 16 | French Bulldog, Scottish Terrier, Cavalier King Charles |
| Medium | 30 | 24 | 20 | Welsh Corgi, Beagle, Miniature Schnauzer |
| Intermediate | 50 | 30 | 23 | Border Collie, Shetland Sheepdog, Cocker Spaniel |
| Large | 70 | 32 | 25 | Samoyed, Whippet, Chow |
| Extra Large | 90 | 36 | 28 | Golden Retriever, German Shepherd, Siberian Husky, Labrador Retriever |
| XXL | >90 | >36 | >28 | Great Dane, Mastiff, Irish Wolfhound |
For specific dimensional recommendations for each sizing guideline, make sure to read on to the next section.
What Size Crate Should I Get for My Dog?
There are a number of methods that you can make use of in order to find the right sized crate for your dog. The easiest and most effective is to use a dog crate sizing chart. This will enable you to find the most accommodating crate for your dog.
One of the first things you need to do when deciding to buy a crate for your dog is to size them up for it. You can do this by taking the measurements of your dog’s height, width, length, and weight. Once you have this info, you can use a dog crate sizing chart to determine which size is right for your pet.
Large Dog Crate Dimensions
As outlined in the chart above, large dogs are classified as breeds which are up to 70 pounds, 25 inches tall, and 32 inches long. The crate you buy should be large, extra and xxl dog crates—at least 42 inches long. Keep in mind that there is no standard size for dog crates, large or small. However, 42 inches is the generally accepted industry standard.
Mini Crates
Small dog crates are likewise not size-regulated by the industry. However, 24 inches is the standard size for crates that are designed to house small or miniature breeds. This gives them plenty of room to stretch their little legs out in. It’s important to measure out a small dog beforehand so you don’t make their crate size too small.
Medium Crates
Medium size dog crates are usually sized at about 36 inches long. This is about the correct size for breeds such as most beagles, bulldogs, and the like. Many medium sized breeds are quite a bit longer than they are tall. Giving them enough leg room will definitely enable them to last out the trip in good spirits.
Extra Large Crates
Crates for extra large dogs [1] are those that are built to be about 60 inches long. Most crates that fall into this category will be made with reinforced wire. These types of crates have to be built extra bulky and heavy to accommodate dogs of this size class. This will be the case no matter what type of material the actual crate is made of.
A Crate is a Home Within Your Home, Not a Cage
The first thing you will need to realize is that a crate is not meant to be a cage. It isn’t a place where you simply trap your dog and stash them away from your sight for hours at a time. This is by far the worst way to think about these useful devices.
It’s much better to think of a crate in terms of your dog’s bedroom. This way, you can help your dog get used to living there much quicker and easier. If you can get them to think of their crate as their own personal den, you will find them much more compliant when it comes to keeping them secure.
If Your Dog is a Puppy, You Need to Size Up
Another thing to keep in mind is that if your dog is still a puppy, they are definitely guaranteed to grow [2]. Even the tiniest breed of dog is eventually going to be at least a little bigger than their present size as they become an adult. This could, and should, affect the decision you make when it comes time to buy them the perfectly sized crate.
For example, a three month old Black Lab puppy may weigh in at a charmingly-sized 25 pounds. But don’t let this fool you. In three more months, they’ll have doubled their weight. They’ll also be much larger than before and they will keep on getting bigger and heavier for the next six months or so.
Even the tiniest breed of dog is eventually going to be at least a little bigger than their present size as they become an adult.
This is a factor that you definitely need to remember when you size up your puppy for their crate. Dog crates with dividers are great in this case as they can be adjusted as your furry friend grows. If you don’t keep this continuous growth process in mind, you’ll wind up wasting time, effort, and money on a uselessly small crate that you will either have to hawk on Ebay or give away to a neighbor.
Should You Choose a Soft-Sided or Hard-Sided Dog Crate?
The next thing to consider is whether you would prefer to buy a soft shell or hard shell crate for your dog. If your dog is very active or very nervous, or if they love to play, it’s maybe better to get them a soft plastic, felt-sided, or soft-sided dog crates.
There are many soft shell styled crates available for you to choose from. Some crates are even made completely of felt, while most are generally made of plastic with soft interior to increase your dog’s comfort. If you own a wild one who literally bounces off the walls, it’s best to go with the soft-sided or soft shelled model.
If you worry about the safety of your dog during a long trip or if you have a dog that generally prefers to stay silent or sleep while in their crate, you may be better off choosing a hard shell or heavy-duty dog crate. This is a crate that is made of much harder plastic or even metal and generally does not come with the soft side feature since it isn’t needed here.
Would You Prefer to Buy a Metal Crate?
Many dog owners prefer to buy a metal crate to house their dogs. This is generally due to metal crates being much sturdier as well as safer for some larger breeds of dog to make use of.
Metal crates come with a number of advantages that are well worth noting. For example, the bars on the securely latched front or top exit doors are generally well constructed with a view toward rendering them bite proof. Dogs love to chew and a bored or angsty pup will, in time, render a plastic crate into mulch if allowed to.
However, a metal crate will prevent them from ruining your investment. A metal crate also generally allows you to keep much closer tabs on your dog. Even when you’re just sitting next to them you can pat them on the head and reassure them with your closeness. You can also feed them timely pet snacks through the bars.
It Matters What Quality of Crate You Buy
The quality of the crate you buy matters a great deal. Sure, you can save a few bucks on a cheap plastic or cloth model. However, despite the fact that you saved money up front, you’re actually going up to end up paying more in the long run. This is due to the simple fact that a cheap dog crate just generally will not cut the mustard.
Even the smallest dog is still a dog. They still chew. And if you buy a cheap plastic or cloth crate, they’ll find a way to destroy it or escape from it. Meanwhile, a cheap metal crate may be nothing more than a fancy wire hanger assemblage. A dog can find a way to get out of it at the most inopportune time.
Your best bet is always to find the model with the sturdiest construction, highest consumer expert rating, and best reviews. It’s just a matter of common sense to put more trust in the judgment of experienced pet crate owners than to trust your own knack for saving money. I’d recommend you get started at with our list of the best dog crates for your pup to call home.
Size and Portability Are Issues You Should Consider
When choosing a crate for your dog, you should definitely take the size and potential portability of every model into consideration. This way, you won’t end up with a monster metal crate that you have trouble assembling and moving into place.
Always make sure to correctly size up your dog in advance so that you won’t make a mistake that you will end up regretting. When choosing a big metal crate, it’s a good idea to get one that includes metal casters. This will make it much easier for you to transport it from point A to point B.
Keeping Your Crate Clean is Easier Than Ever
No matter how big or small your dog’s crate is, one thing will always remain the same: The need for basic cleanliness. This is one area where the general quality of even the cheapest dog crates has improved remarkably over the course of recent years.
Most dog crates of all sizes now come with a removable plastic pan. This gives you the option of removing it from the bottom of the crate whenever you need to clean it. This way, you will always be able to remove excess food, spilled water, stains, and chewed up toys before they have a chance to start stinking up your crate.
Definitely make sure that the crate you are looking includes this handy plastic pan. It’s the difference between sliding out a convenient pan to clean in a few minutes or having to crawl inside the cage on your hands and knees to clean up the stains.
If You’re Buying a Metal Crate, Choose One with Wheels
If you’re planning on buying a metal crate to house your dog during trips, make sure that you buy one that comes with included caster wheels. They are even beneficial for just moving the crate around the house. These handy metal casters will save you a great deal of time and energy in the long run. Instead of having to physically lift the cart and carry it, you can simply roll it on the casters.
This handy convenience will enable you to move your crate around your house or in and out of your car, RV, or moving truck in a hurry. You won’t risk hurting your back or having an accident with your dog. Choose the best portable and travel dog crates. The bigger and heavier the crate you buy, the more crucial this simple feature will reveal itself to be.
Many Modern Dog Crates Are Now Collapsible
Another feature to keep in mind is the collapsibility of most modern crates. This includes metal crates as well as some cloth models. A collapsible and folding dog crate will simply fold up into a large gate-shaped object that you can safely store in your kitchen, garage, basement, or other storage area.
Is a Metal or Plastic Crate Better for Your Dog?
Some dog owners swear by the traditional metal crate while others prefer the more modern plastic ones. This will be a question that is up to the individual owner to decide. However, it is true that larger dogs do tend to favor metal crates over plastic ones, while smaller breeds seem to do better in plastic models.
There are several factors for you to consider here. A smaller dog is easier to transport in a more lightweight and portable crate. Smaller dogs also tend to prefer plastic crates that come with the softened edges, floors, and walls.
Larger dogs tend to do best in the big metal crates. This is partly due to their sheer size and bulk. This means that you will definitely need to consider the weight and basic portability of such a crate before you make your final choice. However, the advantages that come with choosing a metal dog crate will soon be obvious.
Larger dogs tend to like metal crates better because the spaces between the bars give them more visibility. They can see you at all times and interact with you at crucial moments. This accessibility is a major source of comfort. There is also the fact that a large dog weathers the occasional bump or jolt much easier in a metal crate.
Is it Safe to Store More Than One Dog in a Crate?
One of the most frequently asked questions that I get concerns whether or not it is safe to store more than one dog in a single crate. The answer is a qualified yes. We say it’s perfectly safe to do so if the crate is big enough for this purpose. For example, you can easily fit two small dogs in a leftover large dog crate.
However, it’s important to remember that even small dogs need room to stretch out. If you store too many dogs in the same space, it could lead to a very uncomfortable experience for them. This is especially true if you have dogs together that aren’t necessarily the best of friends.
Is it Safe to Store a Cat in a Dog Crate?
Another question that I frequently receive is whether or not it is safe to store a cat in a dog crate. Again, I give this a mostly positive response. It’s usually pretty safe to do so if the cat is small or medium sized.
The catch is that cats are natural escape artists and may well be able to figure out how to work the latch on a plastic crate. Cats also tend to claw things, especially when they get in a nervous or fearful mood. Escape proof dog crates should be perfect for pets like this.
The other important thing to keep in mind is not to overdo it. It’s probably not the best idea to store your whole family of cats in a medium sized dog crate. Cats need just as much space as any dog to stretch out in.
How Big Should a Dog Crate Be?
When it comes to choosing the right sized crate for your dog, their general size as defined by their height, weight, and length should be the deciding factors. But there are also other considerations that you will need to keep in mind at all times.
For example, it’s a good idea to choose a crate that not only houses them comfortably but also gives them plenty of room to eat, sleep, play, and relax in. This way, the crate will be a comfy environment that you can even store in your home for them to snooze or find privacy in when required. Check out some dog crate furniture and end tables to suit any interior home style.
The roomier and more comfy you make their crate, the more likely they will take to it as their private “puppy cave” for relaxation. This will make them much more amenable to quickly getting inside when it’s time to make that long journey.
Size and Comfort Matter When Choosing the Perfect Dog Crate
I can’t do better than to conclude this general overview with a timely reminder that, when choosing a dog crate, size and comfort really do matter. These are the factors that, more than any others, will decide whether or not your dog takes to their new crate. If you play your cards right, your dog will come to love their new home.
They key is to do your research. You can use sites like mine to get all of the basic facts before you go off to the rest of the web to do your shopping. The more you know in advance, the smarter your purchase will be.
This is why I urge you to keep these factors in mind at all times when choosing your new crate. If you should have any other questions, comments, or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me. You can feel free to get in touch with me today to learn more about what I can do to help you choose the perfect crate for your dog.
