Trying to figure out what size or style of dog crate to buy? This may seem like a simple question with a straightforward answer, but figuring out the right crate for your pooch actually depends on a few different factors, including the purpose of the crate, whether your dog is a puppy and (of course) your dog's size.
The Right Dog Crate Depends on Its Purpose
The answer to "What size crate should I get for my dog?" depends largely on how you intend to use the crate: Do you want to take your dog with you on a trip, train them not to do their business inside, or crate train them? Here's advice for choosing a crate for any occasion:
- toilet training: If you want to use a crate to housebreak your dog, it should be large enough that they can stand, sit up and turn around without hitting the sides. But it should also be small enough that if they relieve themselves in the crate, they'll soil their sleeping area, says Labrador Training HQ. Dogs have a natural instinct to not have their bathroom and their bedroom too close together. This is what helps them understand that if they want to do their business, they need to do so when they are let outside.
- Air travel: Airlines that allow pets usually have their own crate requirements, says the International Air Transport Association. You'll want to look for a crate that meets the airline's conditions but still allows your dog enough room to be comfortable.
- Car travel: While it might seem less fun, car travel is safer for your pooch if they're secured with either a harness or crate. In addition to making sure the crate fits the area where your dog will be riding — the backseat is preferable — it should also be small enough that your dog won't get tossed around inside of it in the event of an accident or a sudden stop. At the same time, it should be large enough that they're comfortable.
- Containment: If you're going to crate train your dog while they're home alone, opt for a slightly roomier crate that gives them room to stretch out, stand and sit, and that will also fit a toy or two. While it may seem kinder to get the largest crate you can find, keep in mind that dogs are den animals who find security in tighter spaces, says Labrador Training HQ. A crate that's too roomy is more likely to make your dog anxious than one that's just their size. Assuming your pup is potty trained, they may need extra space to relieve themselves on a pee pad.
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What Is the Right Size Crate for My Dog?
Of course, the biggest consideration when choosing a crate is the size of your dog. If possible, it's best to take your dog with you to the store so they can try it out. But if you need to pick out a crate unaccompanied by your pooch, here are general sizing guidelines, courtesy of Labrador Training HQ.
- Dogs under 25 lbs and up to 20 in long (11kg and up to 50cm long): 18 to 22 inch-long (45 to 56cm) crate, or extra small size
- Dogs under 30 lbs and up to 22 in long (13.5 kg and up to 56 cm long): 24 inch-long (61 cm) crate, or small size
- Dogs under 40 lbs and up to 28 in long (18kb and up to 71 cm long): 30 inch-long (76 cm) crate, or medium size
- Dogs under 70 lbs and up to 34 in long (32 kg and up to 86 cm long): 36 inch-long (91 cm) crate, or large size
- Dogs under 90 lbs and up to 40 in long (41 kg and up to 102 cm long): 42 inch-long (107 cm) crate, or extra large size
- Dogs 90 to 150 pounds and 46 to 68 inches long (41-68 kg and 117-172 cm): 48 to 72-inch-long (122-182 cm) crate, or extra extra large size
Choosing a Puppy Crate
Choosing a crate for a puppy can be tricky. You may not know exactly when they'll stop growing, or how big they'll grow to be. There are three approaches you can take:
- You can choose a crate based on your puppy's current size and upgrade to a newer, bigger crate as they grow. If you go this route, you'll probably want to buy a less expensive model at first and wait until your pup is fully grown to invest in a higher-end model.
- You can use a cat carrier to transport your small puppy until they outgrow it.
- If you know the size your pup is likely to grow to, you can choose a crate based on that size and use dividers to create a space within the crate that's more suitable to their current size.
What Type of Crate Should I Get?
Once you have a sense of the right size crate for your dog there are a couple additional things you should consider before selecting the right one.
- If you want a crate that is for traveling, you'll want one with more solid sides that can be easily secured to a car, or easy to carry if you intend to take them somewhere like the vet or walking through an airport.
- Carriers with solid walls can also provide a dog with anxiety a little better sense of security because it acts like a den with less light and more privacy. However, a blanket over a wire kennel can provide a similar feeling of security.
- Wire kennels have become more and more popular over the years because they can be very versatile. They can be folded up to be easier to put away or pack into a vehicle. They are also a little easier to clean because you can break down the walls or ceiling to get in.
- Soft crates are also an option. They allow some of the flexibility of wire kennels, but are much lighter in weight. However, their biggest drawbacks are that they can be more easily damaged, they're not as easy to clean, and they don't provide the same security in a vehicle as a plastic crate.
- The last consideration is dealing with escape artists. If you have a dog that is great at getting out of his current kennel, you may want to invest in one that has a more secure lock or sides. The last thing you want to happen is your dog getting hurt trying to escape or your house getting torn up because your dog can now wander the house without supervision.
As you can see, there are a number of factors to consider when choosing a crate, but doing your research ahead of time is a great first step. When in doubt consult your veterinarian; they can provide you with a good recommendation based on your dog's size and temperament.
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