How to use the dog crate size calculator
- Measure nose to base of tail.
- Measure floor to top of head (or ears) standing.
- Press Calculate.
Worked example
A dog measuring 80 cm from nose to base of tail and 60 cm from floor to top of head.
- Nose to base of tail
- 80 cm
- Standing height (floor to top of head/ears)
- 60 cm
- Minimum inside length
- 90 cm (35 in)
- Minimum inside height
- 70 cm (28 in)
- Nearest nominal crate
- 42" (check the brand's inside size)
Nominal sizes are typical for common wire crates; inside length and height differ between brands, so compare with the maker's inside measurements.
Example values are illustrative; this result is produced by the same calculator above.
How we calculate it
Sources: AKC / vet-practice owner guidance · Manufacturer sizing guidance (general industry convention; brands differ)
Understanding your result
A crate should be large enough for your dog to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably, but not so large that it stops feeling like a den.
Measure from the nose to the base of the tail and from the floor to the top of the head while standing. The calculator adds a 5 to 10 cm (2 to 4 in) allowance to both measurements to give the minimum inside size.
Compare the result with the interior measurements of the crate you are considering, not the outside dimensions.
Common mistakes
- Measuring the dog sitting down.
- Using the crate's outside dimensions.
- Buying for a puppy's current size when it will grow.
Good to know
- Airlines have their own container rules, so check with the airline.
- Some crates come with dividers that you can adjust as a puppy grows.
- A crate should never be used as punishment.
Frequently asked questions
What size crate does my dog need?
Add 5–10 cm (2–4 in) to your dog's length and standing height to get the minimum inside size.
What size crate for a puppy?
Buy for the expected adult size and use a divider while the puppy is small.
Is this the same for air travel?
No — airlines follow IATA container rules with their own formula.
How do I measure my dog for a crate?
Measure from the nose to the base of the tail for length, and from the floor to the top of the head or ears while standing for height. Add 5–10 cm (2–4 in) to both for the minimum inside size.
Should the crate be much bigger than that?
No. Extra space can make house-training harder, so choose the smallest size that fits comfortably, and use a divider while a puppy is growing.
Do crate brands use the same sizes?
Sizes vary by brand, so compare your minimum inside length and height with each manufacturer's inside measurements rather than the name of the size.
Sources
- AKC / vet-practice owner guidance (practical rule of thumb)
- Manufacturer sizing guidance (general industry convention; brands differ)
Guides about this
Related calculators
Guidance only.