How to Find a Dog Size Crate

Dog crates are useful tools when potty training a puppy or dog. Crates can also prevent dogs from chewing on forbidden items, such as shoes or furniture, when left alone. Choosing the correct size crate is essential to your dog's well-being. A too-small crate can make your dog feel cramped and claustrophobic, and can cause your dog to fear the crate. A too-large crate can allow a puppy to sleep at one end and urinate at the other. Spending some time researching the best crate for your dog can save unnecessary trouble for you and your dog in the future.

Things You'll Need

  • Scales
  • Tape measure
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Instructions

    • 1

      Weigh your dog and measure its height. Make a note of the numbers. Consider the potential adult weight of your puppy and write that down.

    • 2

      Go to your local pet store and look at the types of crate available.

    • 3

      Compare your dog's weight or potential adult weight with the recommended weights and sizes for each crate. A small crate is for dogs approximately 6 to 10 pounds. A medium-small crate is for dogs between 11 and 20 pounds. Try a medium crate if your dog is 21 to 40 pounds, or a large crate if your dog is between 41 and 65 pounds. Very large crates are available for dogs approximately 67 to 100 pounds, and extra large crates for those over 110 pounds.

    • 4

      Purchase a divider if you decide to buy an adult-sized crate for your puppy. Use the divider to make the front area of the crate smaller, so your puppy does not have the option of sleeping in one end of the crate and urinating in the other.