What size crate does my dog need?
Measure your dog standing and add 3 to 4 inches to the length and height. That's the inside space to look for. The dog crate size chart below matches it to the eight standard crate sizes, from 18″ to 54″.
Dog crate size chart
| Crate | Largest dog | Weight | Example breeds |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18″ Tiny | 12″ tall, 17″ long | 1–6 lb | Pomeranian, Maltese, Jack Russell Terrier |
| 22″ XS | 14″ tall, 20″ long | 7–11 lb | Yorkshire Terrier, Papillon, Japanese Chin |
| 24″ Small | 18″ tall, 22″ long | 12–20 lb | Chihuahua, Pug, Boston Terrier, Miniature Poodle |
| 30″ Medium | 20″ tall, 30″ long | 21–40 lb | French Bulldog, Dachshund, Shetland Sheepdog, Pekingese |
| 36″ Intermediate | 23″ tall, 34″ long | 41–70 lb | Beagle, Bulldog, Basset Hound, Whippet, Brittany |
| 42″ Large | 28″ tall, 40″ long | 71–90 lb | Labrador Retriever, Boxer, Border Collie, Australian Shepherd, Chow Chow |
| 48″ XL | 30″ tall, 46″ long | 91–110 lb | German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Siberian Husky, Collie, Greyhound |
| 54″ XXL | 36″ tall, 54″ long | over 110 lb | Great Dane, Mastiff, St. Bernard, Irish Wolfhound |
Crate lengths, largest dog sizes, weights and breeds from MidWest Homes for Pets' sizing chart; MidWest measures a dog's length from the nose to the base of the tail. Other brands use similar steps, but check each model's inside dimensions.
How to measure your dog for a crate
Weight gets you close, but measurements decide. A long, low dog like a Basset Hound and a tall, lean one like a Whippet can weigh the same and need different crates. With your dog standing, and treats on hand to keep them still:
- Length: measure from the tip of the nose to the tip of the tail, as the AKC suggests. MidWest measures to the base of the tail instead, so the AKC figure gives a little more room.
- Height: measure from the top of the head to the floor, not just to the shoulders.
- Add 3 to 4 inches to each. That's the inside length and height to look for, and what the calculator above works out.
The calculator then picks the smallest standard crate that's at least 4 inches longer than your dog and tall enough on MidWest's chart. The bars, frame and any bed take up some of a crate's space, so compare the inside dimensions of the model you buy.
Crate size for a puppy
MidWest's advice is to buy the crate for the size your puppy will be as an adult. Look up the breed's adult size, keeping in mind that males are often bigger and that the parents' size helps; for a mixed breed, your vet or rescue can help you guess. To estimate the adult weight from a weigh-in now, try the puppy weight calculator.
Many crates come with a divider panel. It goes across the width of the crate and shrinks the space so your puppy has just enough room to stand, turn around and lie down; move it back as your puppy grows. The extra space matters: MidWest notes that a crate that's too large may take away the sense of security a crate should give, and that too much room can lead to accidents inside the crate. Large breeds usually grow until 15–18 months and giant breeds until 18–24 (PetMD), so see when puppies stop growing for your puppy's dates.
Before you buy
- Room to move. Your dog should be able to stand, sit, turn around and lie down comfortably.
- Between two sizes? Choose the larger one, and use a divider if it feels too roomy.
- Travel is different. Airlines set their own rules for carriers and crates; check with the airline, as this chart is for crates at home.
For collar, harness and litter box sizes, see the pet gear size calculators.
Questions owners ask
What size crate does my dog need by weight?
On MidWest's chart: 18″ for 1–6 lb, 22″ for 7–11 lb, 24″ for 12–20 lb, 30″ for 21–40 lb, 36″ for 41–70 lb, 42″ for 71–90 lb, 48″ for 91–110 lb and 54″ for dogs over 110 lb. Weight is only a guide: long or tall dogs need the next size up, so measure too.
How do I measure my dog for a crate?
With your dog standing, measure from the top of the head to the floor and from the nose to the tip of the tail, the AKC says, then add 3 to 4 inches to each. MidWest measures length to the base of the tail and adds a few inches.
Can a dog crate be too big?
Yes. MidWest notes that a crate that's too large may take away the sense of security a crate should give, and for puppies, extra space can lead to accidents. Use a divider panel to shrink it while your puppy grows.
What size crate for a puppy?
Buy for your puppy's expected adult size, using the breed's size or the parents' size, and block off the extra space with a divider panel. Move the divider as the puppy grows, so there's just room to stand, turn around and lie down.
What size crate for a Labrador?
MidWest lists Labrador Retrievers under its 42″ Large crate, for dogs up to 28″ tall and about 71–90 lb. If your dog is taller or longer than that, the next size is 48″, so measure to check.