One of the first necessities for your new puppy is a dog crate. (Check out our selection of dog crates) A dog crate or kennel provides your pet with a comfortable private "den" space. It is a place that you know they will be safe and secure when you are at work, out running errands, or just are not able to be at home. Selecting the right size dog crate can simplify house and potty training for your pup. You may be asking, "What size crate do I need?" This is a great question because knowing how to choose the right size crate for your dog is very important.
Buying the right size crate for your dog should be based on your dog's size. The most important measurement is going to be your dog's height and length. Your dog's crate should be just large enough for them to stand up, sit, and turn around in easily. As a rule of thumb, the crate should be 4 - 6 inches taller and longer than your dog for maximum comfort. Trying to choose the right size crate for a puppy can be a little bit more challenging. The best advice is to follow the guidelines for the breed size. Use the estimated size and weight to choose the right crate size the puppy will need as an adult. You will also want to choose a crate with a divider to ensure it is the appropriate size as the puppy grows.
The following guidelines can help you in buying the right size crate for your dog. The guide is an estimate only - dogs within the same breed can be different sizes, particularly males versus females. For the best fit, measure your dog and use the size dimensions included on the product description.
Extra-small dog crates measure about 24 inches long and are recommended for dogs weighing up to 25 pounds. These kennels are perfect for puppies and small breeds, including Australian Terrier, Boston Terrier, Chichuahua, Fox Terrier, Jack Russel Terrier, Maltese, Minature Dachshund, Minature Poodle, Papillon, Pomeranian, Pug, Shih Tzu, Yorkshire and other similar sized breeds. These breeds also do well in small dog carriers for traveling.
Small dog crates measure about 30 inches long and are recommended for dogs weighing 26 - 40 pounds. Dog breeds that fit best in small kennels include American Staffordshire Terrier, Basenji, Dachshund, French Bulldog, Miniature Pinscher, Miniature Schnauzer, Pekingese, Scottish Terrier, Shetland Sheepdog, Tibetan Terrier, Welsh Springer Spaniel and other similar sized breeds.
Medium dog crates measure about 36 inches long and are recommended for dogs weighing 41 - 70 pounds. Dogs that fit best in medium kennels include American Eskimo, Australian Cattle Dog, Basset Hound, Beagle, Brittany Spaniel, Bull Terrier, Bulldog, English Setter, English Springer Spaniel, Portuguese Water Dog, Standard Schnauzer, Welsh Corgi and other similar sized breeds.
Large dog crates measure about 42 inches long and are recommended for dogs weighing 71 - 90 pounds. Dogs that fit best in large kennels include Australian Sheperd, Belgian Sheepdog, Border Collie, Boxer, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Dalmation, Golden Retriever, Gordon Setter, Ibizan Hound, Irish Setter, Laabrador Retriever, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Standard Poodle, Vizsla, Weimaraner and other similar sized breeds.
Extra large dog crates measure about 48 inches long and are recommended for dogs weighing 91 - 110 pounds. Dogs that fit best in extra large kennels include Alaskan Malamute, Bernese Mountain Dog, Bloodhound, Bullmastiff, Collie, Doberman Pinscher, German Shepherd, Greyhound, Newfoundland, Old English Sheepdog, Pointer, Rottweiler, Siberian Husky and other similar sized breeds. Most of these crates are built tough for durability. If you are wondering what size dog crate for Great Dane, we carry the Midwest Ginormus Dog Crate that measures 54 inches long. The Ginormous Dog Crate is specifically designed for dogs weighing over 125 pounds. Breeds that fit best in the Ginormous Crate include Great Danes, Saint Bernards, Bernese Mountain Dogs, & other very large breeds.
Do not hesitate to contact us if you need additional help in knowing how to choose the right size crate for your dog. As was previously mentioned, buying the right size crate for your dog is important. It also is important to choose the best type of crate for your dog. Read our "How to Choose a Dog Crate" guide for more information on the various types of crates available.
