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What size crate does my dog need?
Measuring the right size
- Length: measure from nose to base of tail, add 4 inches.
- Height: measure from floor to top of head (when standing), add 4 inches.
- Width: standard crates are slightly narrower than they are tall; match the height number.
- Cross-reference with the manufacturer's breed chart, but trust the measurement for any dog at the edges of breed ranges.
Common sizing mistakes
- Too big for a puppy: defeats housetraining. They potty in one end, sleep in the other.
- Too small for an adult: welfare problem. The dog can't change position. Discomfort builds resentment of the crate.
- Wire vs plastic vs soft-sided: wire (collapsible) is most common and easiest to clean; plastic is required for IATA-compliant air travel; soft-sided is for trained adult dogs only, puppies and chewers destroy them.
- Bedding choice matters: many dogs eat fleece beds when bored. Start with a low-pile washable mat; upgrade only if the dog leaves bedding alone.