So, how to measure a dog for a crate? You’ll need to measure your dog’s height from the floor to the top of their head or shoulders (whichever is taller) and their length from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail. This guide will help you find the best dog crate size for your furry friend.
Getting the right crate for your dog is super important. It’s not just a place for them to sleep; it’s their safe den, a tool for training, and can help keep them out of trouble when you’re not around. But how do you make sure you’re picking the best dog crate size? It all comes down to taking accurate measurements. This dog crate measurement guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from grabbing your measuring tape to interpreting dog crate dimensions. We’ll cover how to size a dog crate for any dog, from tiny puppies to large breeds, and help you with choosing the right dog crate.
Why Correct Crate Sizing Matters
A crate that’s too small will be uncomfortable and can even cause distress. Your dog won’t have enough room to stand up, turn around, or lie down naturally. This can hinder crate training measurement and make the crate feel like a punishment rather than a sanctuary.
On the other hand, a crate that’s too big presents a different set of problems. If the space is too large, your dog might use one end as a potty area and the other as a sleeping space. This defeats a key purpose of crate training – teaching your dog to be clean and contained. For puppy crate size, this is especially crucial as they are still learning house-training rules.
The goal is to create a space that is just big enough for your dog to comfortably stand, turn around, and lie down. It should feel cozy and secure. This is what we call dog crate fitting.
Tools You’ll Need
Before you start, gather these simple tools:
- A flexible measuring tape: The kind used for sewing is perfect.
- A helper (optional but helpful): Especially for wiggly dogs!
- Treats: To reward your dog for being a good sport.
- A pen and paper: To jot down your measurements.
Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Your Dog
Let’s get down to business! Follow these steps to get accurate measurements for determining dog crate size:
1. Measure Your Dog’s Height
- Position your dog: Have your dog stand squarely on a flat surface. It’s best if they are standing naturally, not sitting or lying down. A helper holding a treat near their nose can sometimes help keep them still.
- Locate the highest point: This is usually the top of their head or the top of their shoulders (whichever is taller).
- Measure from the floor: Place the end of your measuring tape on the floor directly in front of your dog’s front paws.
- Bring the tape up: Gently run the tape measure straight up to the highest point of their head or shoulders. Try to keep the tape measure as straight as possible, without bending.
- Record the measurement: Write down this number.
2. Measure Your Dog’s Length
- Keep your dog standing: Continue with your dog in the standing position.
- Locate the tip of the nose: This is straightforward!
- Locate the base of the tail: Measure to where their tail naturally meets their body.
- Measure from nose to tail base: Place the end of your measuring tape at the very tip of your dog’s nose.
- Run the tape along their body: Gently run the tape measure along the natural curve of their back, all the way to the base of their tail. Don’t pull the tape tight against their body, but rather follow their form.
- Record the measurement: Write this number down.
3. Consider Your Dog’s Posture
- Lying down measurements: While standing measurements are primary, it’s also helpful to consider how your dog lies down.
- Measure while lying down: Have your dog lie down in their most common relaxed position. Measure from the tip of their nose to the tip of their extended hind paw. This gives you an idea of their length when fully stretched out.
- Observe their natural position: Do they curl up, or do they sprawl out? This can give you extra insight into their comfort needs.
Calculating Crate Size
Now that you have your measurements, it’s time to use them to find the right crate size.
1. Height Calculation
- Add a few inches to standing height: Take your dog’s standing height measurement. Add 2-4 inches to this measurement. This ensures they have enough room to stand up comfortably inside the crate.
- Example: If your dog measures 20 inches tall at the shoulder, you’ll want a crate that is at least 22-24 inches high.
2. Length Calculation
- Add a few inches to nose-to-tail length: Take your dog’s length measurement (nose to base of tail). Add 4-6 inches to this measurement. This gives them enough space to turn around and stretch out a bit when lying down.
- Example: If your dog measures 30 inches from nose to tail base, you’ll want a crate that is at least 34-36 inches long.
Combining Measurements for the Best Fit
The ideal dog crate fitting means your dog can:
- Stand up: They should be able to stand in the crate without their head touching the top.
- Turn around: They need enough space to pivot and turn in a full circle.
- Lie down comfortably: They should be able to lie down in a natural, relaxed position without being cramped.
So, you’ll look for a crate where the dog crate dimensions meet or slightly exceed your calculated height and length needs.
Using a Crate Sizing Chart
Many dog crate manufacturers provide a crate sizing chart. These charts are a great starting point. They typically list dog breeds and their corresponding crate sizes based on average measurements.
How to Use a Crate Sizing Chart Effectively
- Find your breed: Locate your dog’s breed on the chart.
- Check the weight and height guidelines: Most charts will give a weight range and a height range.
- Compare with your measurements: See if your dog’s measurements fall within the recommended range for a particular crate size.
- Prioritize measurements: If your dog is a mixed breed or falls between sizes, use your actual measurements. If your dog is particularly long-bodied or tall for their breed, always size up to accommodate them.
Table: General Crate Size Guide (Illustrative – Always Check Manufacturer Specs)
| Crate Size | Typical Dog Breeds | Crate Interior Dimensions (Approximate L x W x H) | Recommended Dog Length (inches) | Recommended Dog Height (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| X-Small | Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier, Pomeranian | 18″ x 12″ x 14″ | Up to 15″ | Up to 10″ |
| Small | Beagle, Dachshund, Shih Tzu | 24″ x 16″ x 16″ | Up to 20″ | Up to 12″ |
| Medium | Border Collie, Cocker Spaniel, Bulldog | 30″ x 19″ x 21″ | Up to 24″ | Up to 18″ |
| Intermediate | Australian Shepherd, Basset Hound, Standard Poodle | 36″ x 23″ x 25″ | Up to 30″ | Up to 22″ |
| Large | Labrador Retriever, German Shepherd, Boxer | 42″ x 28″ x 30″ | Up to 36″ | Up to 26″ |
| X-Large | Great Dane, Mastiff, Saint Bernard | 48″ x 30″ x 32″ | Up to 42″ | Up to 30″ |
| XX-Large | Giant breeds, Newfoundland | 54″ x 36″ x 36″ | Up to 48″ | Up to 34″ |
Note: These are general guidelines. Always refer to the specific manufacturer’s sizing recommendations for the crate you are considering.
Special Considerations for Puppies
When it comes to puppy crate size, it can be tricky. Puppies grow fast! Buying a crate that’s too small now means you’ll have to buy another one soon. Buying one that’s too big can lead to potty training issues.
Solutions for Growing Puppies
- Divider Panels: Many wire and plastic crates come with adjustable divider panels. This allows you to make the crate smaller initially, providing a cozy den space, and then expand it as your puppy grows. This is an excellent way to manage puppy crate size and ensure continued dog crate fitting without needing to buy multiple crates.
- Measure and Re-measure: Keep your puppy’s growth in mind. Measure them every few weeks and adjust the crate size with the divider as needed.
Even with a divider, make sure the allocated space is still large enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably in their current stage of growth.
Types of Dog Crates and Sizing
Different types of crates might have slight variations in how they are measured or how much internal space they offer.
Wire Crates
- Pros: Good ventilation, often come with dividers, foldable for storage.
- Sizing: Measure the interior dimensions, as the wire frame can take up a small amount of space. The overall external dimensions are also important for fitting them into your home.
Plastic Crates (Airline Crates)
- Pros: Durable, often preferred for travel, provide a more enclosed den-like feel.
- Sizing: These are typically measured by their external dimensions, as the plastic walls are thicker than wire. Ensure the internal space is still adequate after accounting for wall thickness.
Soft-Sided Crates
- Pros: Lightweight, good for indoor use or travel where weight is a concern.
- Sizing: These can be a bit more forgiving with measurements due to their flexible nature, but still aim for the minimum required space for comfort.
Wooden Crates/Furniture Crates
- Pros: Aesthetically pleasing, can double as furniture.
- Sizing: Treat these like plastic crates; measure internal dimensions to ensure your dog has enough room.
What to Do If Your Dog is Between Sizes
This is a common situation!
- When in doubt, size up: If your dog’s measurements put them right on the edge of two sizes, it’s generally better to go with the larger size. This ensures they have ample room to grow and remain comfortable as they mature.
- Consider breed characteristics: Some breeds are naturally more prone to sprawling out when they sleep. If your dog has long legs relative to their body length, they might benefit from the extra space of a larger crate.
Tips for Successful Crate Fitting and Use
- Introduce the crate gradually: Never force your dog into the crate. Make it a positive experience with treats and praise.
- Make it comfortable: Add a soft bed or blanket.
- Never use the crate as punishment: The crate should be a safe, happy place for your dog.
- Consider the crate’s location: Place the crate in a quiet area where your dog can still feel part of the family.
- Ensure easy access: Make sure the crate door opens fully without obstruction and that your dog can enter and exit without having to duck significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How often should I re-measure my dog for their crate?
A: For puppies, you should re-measure them every 2-4 weeks to adjust the crate size using the divider as they grow. For adult dogs, re-measurement is typically not necessary unless they experience significant weight changes.
Q: My dog seems anxious in the crate, even though it’s the right size. What can I do?
A: This might be a crate training measurement issue rather than a sizing problem. Focus on positive reinforcement, short sessions, and associating the crate with good things like treats and praise. Consult a professional dog trainer if anxiety persists.
Q: Can I use a crate that’s a bit too big for my puppy?
A: While you might be tempted to buy a larger crate for your puppy to grow into, it’s generally not recommended if the crate is excessively large. A crate that’s too big can lead to accidents and hinder potty training. Using a crate with a divider is the best solution for managing puppy crate size.
Q: What if my dog’s measurements don’t match the breed’s average in a crate sizing chart?
A: Always prioritize your dog’s individual measurements over a general crate sizing chart. Mixed breeds or dogs with unique body types might not fit the averages perfectly. Your own measurements are the most accurate way to ensure proper dog crate fitting.
Q: Are there specific dog crate dimensions I should look for?
A: Yes, the key is that the dog crate dimensions must allow your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. For height, add 2-4 inches to their standing height. For length, add 4-6 inches to their nose-to-tail base measurement.
Q: What is the difference between dog crate fitting and determining dog crate size?
A: Determining dog crate size is the process of calculating the correct dimensions using your dog’s measurements. Dog crate fitting refers to ensuring that once you have a crate of the correct size, your dog is comfortable and can utilize it as intended.
By following these steps and paying close attention to your dog’s unique needs, you can confidently select the best dog crate size for a happy, comfortable, and well-trained companion.