How Big of a Crate Does My Dog Need?

Tips for Choosing the Right Crate Size for Your Dog

Before you purchase a crate for your dog, you will need to make sure it is the right size. A crate that is even a little too small for your pup can make them feel cramped and uncomfortable. However, a crate that is too large can make your dog feel vulnerable and unsafe. Neither of these situations makes for a good experience for your furry friend. After all, a dog crate should be a place that your pup feels safe and secure. Crates should be somewhere your dog can retreat to when he wants to be in his own space. 

Compare the 5 Best Dog Crates to Fit Your Dog

About the 5 Best Dog Crates to Fit Your Dog 

MidWest Homes for Pets XXL Giant Dog Crate

About: 

The MidWest Homes for Pets XXL Giant Dog Crate is designed to hold extra-large dogs and XXL dogs that weigh more than 90 pounds. This crate has double doors for ease of access and a drop pin closure for security. There is an L-shaped bar across the top panel designed to reinforce the crate’s side panels. 

Features: 

• Double Doors
• Drop Pin Closure
• Reinforced Metal Frame
• One Year Warranty 
• Protective Rust-Resistant Coating

Tips: 

This crate is large enough for XXL dogs that weigh over 110 pounds. The crate will still work well for extra large and large dogs as well, provided you use a divider panel or add some accessories to take up space like a dog bed or blankets. 

SMONTER Heavy Duty Dog Crate

About: 

The SMONTER Heavy Duty Dog Crate is designed for indoor and outdoor use. This crate is best for large dogs, but not extra-large or XXL. This crate is made with a unique Y-pattern that is designed to prevent your pup from biting and chewing on the bars. 

Features: 

• Steel Frame
• Removable Plastic Tray
• Non-toxic Finish
• Anti-Escape Locking Mechanism
• 360-degree Rotating Wheels & Locking Casters

Tips: 

This crate comes partially assembled. To complete setup, you will need to screw the parts together. 

AmazonBasics Folding Soft Dog Crate for Crate-Trained Dogs

About: 

The AmazonBasics Folding Soft Dog Crate is designed for medium-sized dogs that weight up to 42 pounds. This crate has two doors – one door on top, and a second door on the front. The unique aspect of this crate is that it can be folded flat for easy transport and storage. 

Features: 

• Mesh Windows
• Zipper Closure & Fastening Straps
• PVC Frame
• Polyester Fabric
• Limited One Year Warranty

Tips: 

This crate is made for crate-trained dogs only and is not suitable as a training tool for puppies. 

Sliverylake Dog Crate

About: 

The Sliverylake Dog Crate is equipped with a durable steel frame and a removable plastic tray. This crate is listed as a great fit for large dog breeds like the Afghan, Bloodhound, Doberman Pinscher, Rottweiler, Alaskan Malamute, and the Siberian Husky to name just a few. 

Features: 

• Steel Frame 
• Removable Plastic Tray
• 4 Wheels (2 lockable)
• For Large Dogs

Tips: 

Although this crate is sized to fit large dogs, you can use it for medium-sized dogs with the addition of some accessories or dividers to take up some of the extra space. 

AmazonBasics Double-Door Folding Metal Dog Crate

About: 

The AmazonBasics Double Door Folding Metal Dog Crate has a door on the front and a second door on the side. This crate is unique because it is made from metal and still folds flat. This crate is also one that will grow with your pup as it does come with an optional divider. 

Features: 

• Double Doors
• Metal Frame
• Removable Plastic Tray
• Divider Panel

Tips: This crate is sized for medium dogs. However, multiple sizes are available. 

How to Measure Your Dog 

Using a tape measure, you’ll want to measure your dog’s height, length, and around his middle. For height, have your dog sit down on the ground. Measure from the top of their head (or tips of ears if they stick up) down to the floor. For length, have your dog stand on all fours. Measure from the tip of their head to the base of their tail (you do not need to measure their whole tail).

For the middle, measure around the widest part of your dog. Now for the appropriate crate size, you will want to add two-four inches to each of these measurements. For instance, if your dog measures 24 inches from the tip of his nose to the base of his tail, you may want to get a crate that is 26-28 inches long to give your pup adequate room to maneuver the crate. 

Size Guide for Dog Crates

The following size guide is helpful for choosing the right size crate based on your dog’s weight. This guide is an approximation as every manufacturer does their sizes a little differently. 

Guide for Crate Size Based on Dog Weight

What is the Right Crate Size for a Puppy?   

If you are purchasing a dog crate for a puppy, the rules are a little different (unless you intend to buy a new crate every time your puppy grows an inch). For puppies, you’ll want to buy a crate that is large enough for an adult-sized version of your puppy.

To figure out how large your puppy is expected to get you can look up their breed online, or consult your vet for guidance. To keep your puppy feeling safe and secure in a large crate, use some dividers to adjust the area your pup is going to be in. There are some crates on the market that are designed to grow with your puppy. These crates typically come with their own dividers.  

Crate Sizes for Small Dogs

The smallest crates run between 24 and 30 inches in length. Small crates are best for small dog breeds like the Maltese, French Bulldog, Jack Russell Terrier, and other small-sized breeds.

If you are afraid that the crate will be too small, you may want to go up a size. It is better to add dividers, dog beds, or other toys to take up extra room in an oversized crate than to cramp your pup into a crate that is too small. 

Crate Sizes for Medium Dogs

Medium crates are designed for dogs weight between 41-70 pounds. Dog breeds such as Cocker Spaniels and Bulldogs are a good fit for many medium-sized crates.

Crate Sizes for Large Dogs

Large crates are designed for dogs that weight approximately 71-90 pounds. Large crates are a good fit for Dalmatians, Labradors, and Golden Retrievers.  

Crate Sizes for Extra Large Dogs

Extra-large crates are made for dogs between 91-110 pounds. These crates fit dogs like the Alaskan Malamute, German Shepherd, and Bloodhound. For dogs weighing more than 110 pounds, you will need an XXL crate. These crates are best for dogs breeds like the Great Dane and Saint Bernard. 

Soft Crates Versus Metal Crates

The size of the crate is only one factor in choosing the best fit for your dog. The materials the crate is made from are important too. If you have a small to medium-sized dog, you have several options. You can get a crate made from plastic or a soft, foldable travel crate for instance.

However, if you have a large or extra large dog (weight over 90 pounds), you should stick to the metal crates. Soft crates and plastic crates may not stand up to large dogs. This is especially true if the large dog is rambunctious. 

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Right Crate Size 

Choosing the right size crate to fit your dog is crucial to their overall enjoyment of the crate. Make sure to measure your pup and read all the product details on the crate description before making a purchase to get the best fit. Remember, it is not only the dimensions of the crate that are important but also the weight limit. Make sure to weigh your dog and choose a crate that is within his weight range.

If you purchase a crate for a puppy, go by the measurements he is expected to reach by adulthood and opt for a crate that comes with dividers (or make your own). When in doubt, go up a size. You can always fill in extra space with accessories and toys.