When you buy a dog crate, it's important to select one that will be the right size for your pet. This is because crates are used for a variety of purposes, including house training and allowing your dog to feel secure while you're away from them.
The ideal size crate for your dog should allow them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. To determine the proper crate size, measure your dog's length from nose to base of tail.
Size
Whether you are going to use your dog crate for house training, traveling, or for comfort, it’s important to get the right size. You want a crate that will be large enough for your dog to stand up and turn around comfortably, but not too big that they’ll feel like they are in prison.
A good rule of thumb is to choose a crate that’s about 2x your dog’s shoulder width. This will give her plenty of room to stand up, turn around, and lie down while she’s in the crate.
To find out what size crate you need, measure your dog using a soft tape measure (such as the kind you would use to measure human clothing). Start with their length from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail and then add 2-4 inches.
Height
A good crate should provide your dog with comfort, convenience and security. It should also be easy to clean and maintain.
For a typical dog, the height of their crate should be around 2x their shoulder width, with room to spare. This includes any items added to the crate, such as food and water bowls, a dog bed, cushions, toys, etc.
Measure your pet in the sitting position, from floor to top of head or tip of ears (whichever is higher). Add a couple of inches for smaller dogs and a few more for larger ones to get the minimum height that will give them the best crate sized for their size.
Measuring your pet is the simplest way to ensure you pick the right size crate for them. You’ll be surprised how much difference even an inch or two can make in their comfort and security. The right size will let you feel confident in your decision to invest in a quality crate for your pup.
Length
When you are looking for the right dog crate, the length is often the most important factor. A crate that is too small may not provide your dog with enough room to move around comfortably or to stand up properly.
The best way to determine the correct size crate is to measure your dog. To do this, start by measuring from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail. Add about 2-4 inches to this measurement, depending on your dog's size.
Next, measure from the floor to the top of their head or the tip of their ears (whichever is higher). Once you have these measurements, add 2 to 4 inches for a minimum height that will ensure your dog can sit comfortably without hitting their head on the crate.
When it comes to choosing a crate, there are many different options out there. They come in various shapes and sizes, including wire, fabric, plastic, and metal crates. Some are also collapsible or foldable and breathable to help keep your dog comfortable and healthy.
Width
When deciding what size crate to buy, it's important to consider your dog's size and how much room they need for a comfortable, safe space. If you choose a crate that's too small, your dog might not be able to stand up or turn around without getting in the way.
A typical dog crate is about 30 inches wide, 21 inches deep and 25-30 inches tall. This is a popular size that's suitable for dogs up to 40 pounds in weight.
Generally, you should choose the size that's closest to your dog's adult size. However, keep in mind that these measurements are rough guidelines and may not apply to your particular dog.
You can also buy a crate that "grows" with your dog -- some companies offer crates that "grow" in size with your puppy, while others have dividers you can add to make the crate bigger as they grow. These options are ideal for busy households that don't want to spend time rearranging furniture when the pup grows up!
