How to Match a Dog to the Crate Size

Housetraining your dog sometimes involves using a crate. When you first start training, you can use the crate as a safe place for your dog to go when you're not home and at night. Crate-training can be a challenging process and will be ineffective if not done correctly. Consult with your vet or a dog trainer about proper crate-training before you begin. One of the first things you need to do is match the crate to the size of your dog. If you have a puppy, you'll be matching the crate to the size the puppy is likely to become.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the total height of your dog, or estimate height based on your puppy's breed. During a checkup with your dog's veterinarian, ask for an estimate of how tall it is expected to grow, and how much it is expected to weigh. While this might vary, breeds tend to fall in certain ranges, from Yorkshire Terriers that can weigh less than 15 pounds to Rottweilers that can weigh more than 100 pounds. Organizations such as your local ASPCA will also have this information.

    • 2

      Choose a crate that is too big over a crate this may end up too small. Crates are categorized by depth in inches, ranging in increments from a 22-inch crate up to a 48-inch crate.

    • 3

      Watch your dog lie down, stand up and turn around. The crate you choose should be big enough to allow your dog to complete these simple movements easily with room to spare. Also, look for crates that will allow your dog to stand up to full height easily with a few inches to spare.

    • 4

      Allow your dog to test out the crate. This is one of the easiest ways to match your dog to crate size. Many pet supply stores will have crates set up so you can bring your dog into the store to try them out. Make sure your dog doesn't consistently brush up against the sides of the crate as it moves around inside, while also making sure that there's not so much space that your dog thinks it can go to the bathroom and have plenty of room to move away from the mess.

    • 5

      Rent a crate from a local animal shelter and let your dog test it out before you commit to buying a crate of the same size.

    • 6

      Consult with your veterinarian or use online resources, such as the PetSmart Crate Size Chart, if you're still not sure about the proper crate size for your dog. The more sources you consult, the more likely it will be that you're able to choose the right size.