Table of Contents
A good way to determine the correct size is to measure your dog’s height when standing (top of the dog’s head to the floor) and length (tip of the dog’s nose to the base of its tail). Then, add 4 inches to the dog’s measurements to determine the best dog crate size.
How do I know what size crate to get for my dog?
Length of Dog Crate When your dog is standing on all fours, measure them from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail (do not include their full tail length in this measurement — this will result in a crate that is too large). Add 2 to 4 inches to this measurement for the best length of a crate for your dog.
How much bigger should a crate be than the dog?
First, measure your dog’s height (from the top of head or ears to the ground) and then length (nose to tail) and then match those measurements to the height and length of the crate. We recommend adding 2 to 4 inches (2 inches for smaller dogs, 4 inches for larger ones) to these dimensions to determine the crate size.
Does the size of the dog crate matter?
In crates, at least, size does matter. Your crate must have enough room for your dog to stand, sit, turn around, and sleep comfortably. However, if you have a puppy, there is one more size factor to consider. Some puppies are fine in a large crate.
How do I know if my dog’s crate is too big?
While they can be too small, they can also definitely be too big. When a crate is too big, your dog may start to use part of it as a potty area, which will hinder housebreaking and not teach your dog to hold it. Your dog should be able to stand up, sit, lie down, and stretch out comfortably in his crate.
How much room should a dog have in a crate?
The size of your dog should determine the size of their crate. There should be enough room for him to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. The crate is a place where your dog can relax, sleep, and basically just chill out. The crate should be small enough that they cannot be too rowdy.
How do you know if a crate is too small?
Here are a few ways to know: Your dog should be able to stand up comfortably and turn around. There shouldn’t be too much additional space in the crate. If your dog’s head is touching the top of the crate and you expect them to grow taller, the crate size is likely too short.
What size crate should I get for my puppy?
Choosing the Right Crate Size Crate Size Approximate Weight of the Dog 18″x18″ or 18″x24″ Under 24 lbs Under 30 lbs 24″x18″ or 24″x24″ Under 30 lbs Under 38 lbs 24″x30″ or 24″x36″ Under 40 lbs Under 40 lbs 30″x24″ or 30″x30″ or 30″x36″ 0-40 lbs 40-50 lbs 50-60 lbs.
Should I lock my puppy in his crate at night?
Only ever let the puppy out of the crate when he/she is being good. Lock your puppy in his/her bed every night. If you are worried about him/her being lonely, you can keep the crate by your bed so he/she can hear you nearby.
Can a crate be too tall for a dog?
In general, you want a crate that’s not much taller than your dog. Your dog should easily be able to turn around and stretch out while sleeping, but the crate shouldn’t be much bigger than that. Most crates are sized according to your dog’s weight and height at the shoulder.
Should dogs be able to stretch in crate?
A crate that’s too small will prevent your dog from standing up and stretching their legs. Their crate should be a healthy balance; they should be able to stand up and move around, but they shouldn’t be able to walk multiple paces from one end to the other.
How long should a dog be in a crate?
Adult dogs shouldn’t be left in crates for more than 6-8 hours. Puppies of 17 weeks and older can handle up to 4 or 5 hours in a crate at a time. Leaving a dog home alone in a crate longer than this can hurt their mental and physical health.
Should you cover a dog crate with a blanket?
You should never completely cover your dog’s crate as it can block airflow. Keep blankets away from heat sources, ensure the fabric is breathable, and avoid using knit blankets that may snag or unravel. Monitor the conditions inside the crate in humid summer weather to ensure it doesn’t get too hot.
Can I use a large crate for a puppy?
A crate should not be too big, but large enough for your puppy to stand, stretch and turn around. Get the proper size crate for your puppy and purchase a larger crate when you puppy outgrows the small one. Get a large crate with a divider so you can increase the size of the crate as your puppy grows.
Do I need 2 crates for a puppy?
Your dog’s crate should be just large enough for him to stand up and turn around in. If it is too big, it won’t feel comfortable for him; dogs prefer cozy dens in the wild. Some dog owners like to keep two crates, one for their main living space and one in their bedrooms.
