You’ve come to the right place if you’re unsure of what size dog crate to purchase for your dog. This comprehensive guide to dog crates will assist you in choosing the ideal size and design for your needs and those of your dog.
There are many different dog crate designs available, so you’re sure to find one that meets your needs, whether you need a crate for puppy training or you want a sturdy one that your dog can’t destroy.
I’ll go over all the elements you should think about when selecting a crate, how to measure your dog, the main crate types that are available, and the benefits and drawbacks of each.
Your dog can’t sit up straight
The sitting up straight test is the first test you should always perform to determine if there are any indications that a dog crate is too small.
Make sure your dog is not hitting its head in any way while sitting up straight in the kennel.
The dog should have sufficient space inside to avoid any instances of cramping or hunching.
If you are somewhat tall and have ever spent several hours in a car or a cramped space, you are familiar with the discomfort. Make sure the dog passes that test.
Just enough space is required so that it can sit naturally without being cramped.
Your dog is not able to lay down on it’s side with its paw stretched out.
Like most people, your dog enjoys stretching out and lying down.
Some of us would happily stretch out and rest all day if we could.
Another quick and simple test is to have your dog lay down on its side with its paw stretched out as much as possible. Why would you want to take that away from him?
Once more, the dog should be free to perform this activity and shouldn’t frequently touch the small fence.
Of course, that assumes he is sitting in the center of the crate. The best way to make sure the crate is the right size is to have your dog stretch out in front of you.
However, if you are having trouble getting the dog to stretch out in the middle of the crate when instructed, I will let you use a measuring tape as a precaution.
Simply add 2-3 inches to whatever figure you came up with.
The main 5 signs that the dog crate is too small
Are you concerned that the dog crate or kennel you recently purchased might be too small for your dog? Are there any telltale signs that a dog crate is too small? Have you noticed a change in your dog’s behavior recently?
Asking yourself these questions is perfectly justified. After all, one of the most crucial things there is is ensuring the health and safety of our cherished pets.
Unbeknownst to you, your dog may be attempting to tell you that his new crate is too small.
Let’s look at the top 5 indications that your dog’s crate is too small and ask ourselves if it is even possible to recognize these signs and correct them in order to prevent your dog from experiencing future health problems.
Additionally, you can click here to view the crate size selection guide.
FAQ
How do I know if a crate is too small for my dog?
- Your dog should be able to turn around and stand up comfortably.
- There shouldn’t be too much additional space in the crate.
- The crate size is probably too small if your dog’s head is touching the top of it and you anticipate them to get taller.
What happens if a crate is too small?
When a dog is kept in a crate that is too small for its size for an extended period of time, it will eventually experience health problems like rashes, neck and back issues, etc.
Are dog crates supposed to be small?
Your dog should be able to stand, turn around, lay down, and stretch out in the crate. Get a puppy a crate that will accommodate their growth. However, your puppy will be better protected in a smaller space than in an adult-sized crate.
Is it better to have a bigger or smaller dog crate?
Size the crate to your dog’s size. Most owners buy crates that are far too large. The dog should have enough space in the crate to stand up and turn around, but not much more. Keep in mind that we’re trying to provide the dog with a tiny, secure area to unwind that resembles a den, not a play pen.