How Big Should a Dog Kennel Be?

Buying a dog kennel or wire crate is a something most puppy owners do right away. The right-size kennel can help ensure your dog is comfortable, whether he's traveling, sleeping or being trained.

  1. Size

    • The size of your dog is obviously the single biggest factor to weigh when picking your canine friend's new home. Most veterinarians and breeders recommend the kennel to be at least big enough for the dog to stand up and move around inside. This allows dogs the comfort of mobility, but deters them from having accidents inside.

    Puppies

    • It's a bit trickier to buy a crate for puppies, as they grow rapidly. Some breeds, such as Labradors, start out tiny and grow to be nearly 100 pounds. Naturally, it gets expensive to purchase a dog crate or kennel for each stage of growth. An economic alternative is to purchase dividers to block off the excess portions of the kennel.

    Small Dogs

    • For tiny dogs such as Yorkshire Terriers or Maltese, kennels come as small as less than a foot long and wide. Medium dogs, such as pugs or Lhasa Apso, can stay in kennels that up to 2 feet long and 20 inches tall.

    Big Dogs

    • Big dogs, such as Labradors or shepherds, will need a bigger crate, perhaps more than 3 feet long and 2.5 feet tall. Saint Bernards and mastiffs will have to have jumbo-sized kennels, up to 4 feet long and more than 3 feet tall.

    Uses

    • If you're planning for your dog to be confined to the kennel for long periods of time, such as when you're at work, it is recommended you purchase one that is a bit bigger so the dog has mobility. Keep in mind if your dog is in the kennel all day, he will need plenty of exercise and attention at night.

    Travel

    • If your kennel is going to be used for travel, then size as well as the type of material should be considered. Be sure your kennel fits in the back of your car. If you travel by plane, get the size that will best fit your dog and adhere to size restrictions on the aircraft. Additionally, you may consider a plastic crate with windows instead of the standard metal kennel so it's easier for transport.