How to Know What Size Cage My Dog Needs

Your dog's cage is not just for training. It is his den, a place that's strictly his where he can feel secure. It's also a tool for you to use in potty-training your pup, or to keep him safely confined when you're not home. Dogs quickly recognize their crate as their "room," so it should be the right size for him to be comfortable. He needs enough space to stand up, sit and turn around.

  1. How to Measure

    • Find the right size crate for your dog by taking his measurements. Measure his height from the top of his head to the bottom of his feet, then from his nose to the end of his tail. Add 2 to 5 inches to these dimensions to arrive at the crate size your dog will need. Calculate according to his adult size even if he's a puppy, and purchase a crate with a divider that you can enlarge for him as he grows.

      If you're house-training a puppy, resist the urge to give him more space in a large crate. Give him just enough room to stand and turn around. Dogs will try not to soil their sleeping quarters, so if you take him out often enough to potty, this will help him understand where you want him to eliminate and reduce the number of accidents in the house.

    Finding Fido's Size

    • Standard crates sizes are described in the length, height and width. Be sure to add several inches to your dog's measurement when you choose one. Some crates are described by the dog's weight; for example, an extra small crate for a dog weighing up to 10 pounds will be 18 to 22 inches long. Small crates measure 24 inches long and are listed for dogs up to 25 pounds; medium, 30 inches for dogs up to 40 pounds; and large, 36 inches for dogs up to 70 pounds. Extra-large crates measure 42 inches for dogs up to 90 pounds.

    Types of Crates

    • Crates come in several styles: hard plastic with wire grates on the door and sides; soft-sided, collapsible crates, and metal wire crates, also collapsible.

      Wire crates allow a dog more air than the plastic or fabric types, but puppies can get a paw caught between the wires so supervision is needed when they're small.

      Hard plastic crates are recommended for travel and make excellent dens for a dog who is insecure, shy or looks for a place to hide. Most models come apart for cleaning.

      Soft-sided fabric crates are portable, light, and fold into a case for carrying. They can be tough to clean though and may not stand up to a dog who is a chewer. So Rover might be able to escape this crate more easily than other types.

    Accessories

    • Provide soft bedding for your furry pal in his crate.

      Always provide fresh water for your dog when he's confined to his crate. Crate cups either fit into hook holders and hang on the wire crate rungs or, for dogs who are active in their crates, purchase cups that fit into holders that attach securely to the crate with screws. Both types are easily removable.

      Provide your dog with soft flooring for his crate. Crate pads, fleece beds, a towel or blanket will give Rover a comfortable place to nest in his crate.