How To Measure A Dog For A Crate | Chewtorials

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We’re teaching you how to figure out what size crate for your dog is best with easy, step-by-step instructions. And to ensure your dog’s crate becomes their refuge, we’re offering tips on outfitting it so it’s cozy and inviting for your pooch.

A dog crate is arguably one of the most important things pet parents can buy for their dog. For starters, it’s a place for your pooch to hang out when you’re not around to keep them out of trouble or harm’s way. It also quickly becomes your dog’s safe place—a sanctuary that’s all their own. Plus, dog crates can help with aspects of potty training and other types of dog training. So, how can you tell how big (or small) your dog’s crate should be?

Why Your Dog Crate’s Size Matters

Whether you’re the proud parent of an adult dog or new puppy, a large breed or small dog, choosing the right dog crate size is essential for their safety and comfort. It’s a bit of a Goldilocks predicament: Your dog shouldn’t have too much extra space, but they also won’t be comfortable in one that’s too small.

Too-big crates give your pup room inside the crate to pee or poop, undermining your house-training efforts. Too much space could also allow your dog to jump around too much and injure themselves.

Too-small crates will be uncomfortable for your dog, which may prevent them from wanting to spend time inside it.

How to Measure Your Dog for a Crate: Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to find out exactly how to take your dog’s measurements and figure out which size dog crate is best for their size.

1. Gather Supplies

For this process, you’ll need the following:

Your dog (of course!)
A soft measuring tape

2. Measure Your Dog’s Height

Getting your dog’s height measurement for a crate is pretty simple. While they’re sitting, measure the distance from the base of one of their front paws to the top of their head. Make sure that the tape measure is pulled tight so you get an accurate measurement.

It’s helpful to write the number down or type it into your phone, so you don’t forget it and have to re-measure your dog—most pups will only tolerate being measured for so long!

3. Measure Your Dog’s Length

Have your dog stand on all four legs. Measure in a straight line from the base of their tail (aka where your dog’s tail joins to their body) to the tip of their nose. Make sure to record this number, too.

Pro Tip: Although weight is sometimes included on dog crate size charts, the numbers you should really focus on are length and height. Weight can give you a rough idea of what size crate to buy your dog, but using your other measurements will be more accurate.

4. Factor in Some Wiggle Room

Make sure to add some wiggle room to these measurements to ensure your dog feels comfortable in their crate. While you don’t want them to swim in empty space, they also shouldn’t feel cramped. A good rule is to add four inches to both their height and their length measurements.

After you open and assemble your crate, you can double-check that it’s not too small by letting your dog explore it. If your pup can comfortably stand up, lay down and turn around inside of it, it’s big enough.

5. Consider Your Dog’s Growth

If your dog is still a puppy with room to grow, they may need different sizes of crates throughout their life. But that doesn’t mean you have to buy multiple crates! Many wire dog crates come with a divider panel that you can install to reduce the amount of space inside. (Dividers are less common in wooden or plastic crates.) Then, as your dog grows, you can move the panel to adjust the amount of space they have.

Not sure how tall your dog will get? Consider their breed. While every dog is unique, most dogs of a certain breed grow to roughly the same adult size.

Predicting your dog’s size can be trickier for mixed breed dogs. Talk to your veterinarian for advice.

6. Find Your Dog’s Crate Size

Many brands offer a dog crate size chart to help you pick the right size crate. Compare your dog's sizes to the dimensions of each size of crate, and find the option that’s closest to those measurements without going under. If your dog is between measurements on height and length, always size up. Also, remember to factor in those extra four inches for wiggle room.

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