Is My Dog Too Big for His Crate? Signs, Solutions & Finding the Perfect Fit

Have you ever looked at your furry friend squished into his crate and wondered, “Is my dog too big for his crate?” You’re not alone! This is one of the most common concerns pet parents face, and for good reason. A properly sized crate is super important for your dog’s comfort, safety, and training success.

I’ve helped many dog owners navigate this tricky question, and I’m here to share everything you need to know about finding that perfect crate fit for your pup. Let’s dig in!

How to Tell If Your Dog’s Crate Is Too Small

Before we talk about crates being too big, let’s quickly cover the opposite problem. Your dog’s crate is definitely too small if:

• Your dog can’t stand up straight without his head touching the top
• He can’t turn around comfortably in a full circle
• He can’t lie down fully stretched out
• He appears cramped or uncomfortable when inside
• There are red marks or irritation on his body from pressing against the sides

If you’re noticing any of these signs it’s time for an upgrade! But what about the less obvious problem of a crate being too large?

The Unexpected Dangers of a Too-Big Crate

Many pet parents think “bigger is better” when it comes to dog crates. I mean, who doesn’t want their best friend to have extra space? Unfortunately, an oversized crate can actually create several serious problems:

1. Housetraining Setbacks

One of the biggest issues with an oversized crate is how it impacts potty training. Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area In a properly sized crate, they’ll hold it because there isn’t enough space to designate a “bathroom corner” away from where they sleep.

But in a crate that’s too big, your dog can:

• Use one end for sleeping and the other for eliminating
• Break their natural “keep the den clean” instinct
• Develop bad habits that are hard to break
• Experience setbacks in housetraining progress

2. Increased Anxiety and Insecurity

It might seem counterintuitive, but more space doesn’t always equal more comfort for dogs. A properly sized crate feels like a secure den, while an oversized crate can actually increase anxiety by:

• Failing to provide the den-like security dogs crave
• Creating too much open space, which can feel overwhelming
• Making it difficult for your dog to relax and settle down
• Causing restlessness instead of promoting calm

As one dog owner told me, “My German Shepherd was pacing and whining in his giant crate When we downsized to the right fit, he started sleeping peacefully through the night!”

3. Development of Destructive Behaviors

When a dog feels anxious or bored in an oversized space, destructive behaviors often follow:

• Excessive chewing on the crate, bedding, or toys
• Digging at the crate floor
• Increased barking and whining
• Difficulty settling down

4. Crate Training Resistance

Dogs naturally seek out den-like spaces, but an overly large crate can actually make training more difficult:

• Your dog may be hesitant to enter a crate that feels too exposed
• The acclimation process typically takes longer
• Your dog might not view the crate as a safe haven

5. Safety Concerns

Oversized crates can also present safety issues:

• More room for your dog to injure themselves if they become agitated
• Increased potential for getting paws caught in wire mesh
• More leverage for escape attempts

How to Determine the Perfect Crate Size

So how do you find that Goldilocks “just right” crate size? Here’s a simple method:

1. Measure your dog properly:

   • Length: Measure from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail (not the end of the tail)
   • Height: Measure from the floor to the top of their head while standing
   • Add 2-4 inches to both measurements to allow comfortable movement

2. The ideal crate should be:

   • Just tall enough for your dog to stand without crouching
   • Just long enough for your dog to turn around and lie down comfortably
   • Not so spacious that they can designate a “bathroom corner”

For example, a medium-sized dog around 30 pounds typically needs a 30″ crate, while a large 70-pound dog might need a 42″ crate.

Is My Dog’s Crate Too Big? The Simple Test

Here’s a quick way to tell if your dog’s current crate is too large:

When your dog is lying down in the crate, there should be no more than about 6 inches of extra space at their head and tail, and just enough height for them to sit up straight without their head touching the top.

If there’s significantly more space than this, the crate is likely too big.

What to Do If Your Crate Is Already Too Big

Don’t worry if you’ve already purchased a crate that’s too large! There are several solutions:

1. Use a Divider Panel

Many wire crates come with divider panels specifically designed for this purpose. Simply:

• Install the divider to reduce the usable space
• Move it back gradually as your puppy grows
• Remove it when your dog reaches full size (if appropriate)

2. Add Extra Bedding and Toys

If a divider isn’t an option, you can:

• Fill some of the extra space with comfortable bedding
• Add appropriate chew toys to create a cozier environment
• Create a more den-like atmosphere that feels secure

3. Consider a New Crate

If the current crate is significantly oversized and other solutions aren’t working:

• Invest in a properly sized crate for your dog’s needs
• Look for sales or second-hand options to save money
• Remember that this is an investment in your dog’s well-being

Common Crate Size Questions Answered

My puppy is still growing. What size crate should I get?

For puppies, I always recommend buying a crate that will accommodate their adult size, but using a divider panel to adjust the space as they grow. This saves you from having to purchase multiple crates.

My dog likes to stretch out when sleeping. Should I get a bigger crate?

While your dog should be able to lie down comfortably, an excessively large crate can cause the problems we’ve discussed. A proper crate should allow for comfortable sleeping without excess space.

Are there any exceptions to these crate size rules?

Yes, in certain cases:

• Dogs with medical conditions may temporarily need more space
• Some fully crate-trained adult dogs might do fine with slightly larger crates
• Always consult your vet if you have concerns about special circumstances

Beyond Size: Other Important Crate Considerations

While size is crucial, don’t forget these other factors when selecting a crate:

Material Matters

Different materials offer different benefits:

• Wire crates provide good ventilation and visibility
• Plastic crates offer more privacy and insulation
• Soft-sided crates are lightweight for travel

Style Selection

Consider which style works best for your situation:

• Single-door vs. multi-door options
• Collapsible designs for storage
• Travel-friendly features

Comfort Features

Look for features that enhance your dog’s comfort:

• Removable trays for easy cleaning
• Crate covers for added privacy
• Comfortable flooring or a fitted crate pad

The right crate size is absolutely crucial for your dog’s comfort, security, and training success. Too small, and they’ll be uncomfortable; too large, and you could face housetraining issues, anxiety, and other unwanted behaviors.

By taking the time to measure your dog and select an appropriately sized crate, you’re creating a space that truly feels like a safe, secure den for your furry friend. Remember, for most dogs, a properly sized crate should just be large enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably—nothing more, nothing less.

If you’re still wondering “is my dog too big for his crate?” after reading this article, take those measurements, do the simple space test, and make adjustments as needed. Your pup will thank you with better behavior, less anxiety, and successful crate training!

Have you struggled with finding the right crate size? We’d love to hear your experiences in the comments below!

Yes, a dog crate can be too big, especially for puppies and during house training, because it gives a dog too much space. A crate that is too large can undermine house training by allowing a dog to designate one end for sleeping and the other for elimination, leading to accidents in the crate. The ideal crate size allows a dog to comfortably stand up, turn around, and lie down without being cramped or having excessive space.

Your dog has likely outgrown their crate if they cannot comfortably stand up, turn around, or lie down with their limbs fully stretched out. Signs of an outgrown crate also include the dog having to hunch when sitting or standing, with their head touching the top of the crate, or if they seem uncomfortable or start having accidents inside the crate.