Dog Crate Size Calculator
Measure your dog twice and get the right crate size in seconds.
Crate size
36-inch crate
- Minimum inside length
- 32 in
- Minimum inside height
- 24 in
- Typical crate this size
- 36 × 25 in (L × H)
- Roomier option
- 42-inch
How: 30.0 in + 2–4 in = 32.0–34.0 in long; 22.0 in + 2–4 in = 24.0–26.0 in tall. Check the crate’s listed inside height: brands differ.
Buying for a puppy? Size for the adult dog and use a divider panel so the space grows with them.
Quick answer
Your dog’s crate should be 2–4 inches longer than your dog (nose to base of tail) and 2–4 inches taller than its head when standing or sitting. A dog 30 inches long and 22 inches tall needs a 36-inch crate. Buying for a puppy? Size for the adult dog and use a divider.
How do I use the dog crate size calculator?
- Measure length. Dog standing, tape from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail.
- Measure height. From the floor to the top of the head or ear tips, whichever is higher. If your dog sits taller, use that.
- Enter both numbers in inches or centimeters.
- Read the recommended crate size and the minimum inside dimensions. Compare them with the product’s listed interior size before you buy.
What formula does the crate size calculator use?
Minimum inside height = dog height + 2 in (roomy: + 4 in)
Crate = smallest standard size meeting both minimums
| Crate | Length | Height |
|---|---|---|
| Extra small (18") | 18 in | 14 in |
| Extra small (22") | 22 in | 16 in |
| Small (24") | 24 in | 19 in |
| Small–medium (30") | 30 in | 21 in |
| Medium (36") | 36 in | 25 in |
| Large (42") | 42 in | 30 in |
| Extra large (48") | 48 in | 33 in |
| XXL (54") | 54 in | 45 in |
Crate sizes are named by length, which is consistent. Heights vary by brand and style, so the heights above are typical values for popular wire crates; always check the product listing. The “add 2–4 inches” rule is the standard advice from pet retailers and trainers, and matches AKC guidance that a dog should be able to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably.
How is the calculation done?
With the default example, a dog 30 inches long and 22 inches tall:
- Add 2–4 inches to the length: 30 + 2 = 32 in minimum, 30 + 4 = 34 in for extra room.
- Add 2–4 inches to the height: 22 + 2 = 24 in minimum, 22 + 4 = 26 in for extra room.
- Check the next size down first: a 30-inch crate (typically 30 × 21 in) is too short (30 in < 32 in) and too low (21 in < 24 in).
- A 36-inch crate is typically 36 in long and 25 in tall inside. Both minimums fit, so the answer is a 36-inch crate.
- For the roomier +4 inch target (34 × 26 in), you’d need a 42-inch crate. Either works; the smaller one helps with house training.
Worked example: a French Bulldog
An adult Frenchie measures 16 inches long and 15 inches tall. Minimum inside size: 18 × 17 inches. An 18-inch crate is usually only about 14 inches tall, and a 22-inch crate about 16 inches, so height rules both out. The answer is a 24-inch crate. Stocky, short-legged dogs are often limited by height, not length, so it pays to measure both.
Dog crate size chart by weight
No tape measure handy? This rough chart by adult weight gets you in the right range. Measuring is still better, because body shape varies a lot at the same weight.
| Adult weight | Crate size | Example breeds |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 10 lb | 18–22" | Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier, Toy Poodle |
| 11–25 lb | 24–30" | Shih Tzu, Boston Terrier, French Bulldog, Miniature Schnauzer |
| 26–40 lb | 30–36" | Beagle, Cocker Spaniel, Corgi, Border Collie |
| 41–70 lb | 36–42" | Labrador, Golden Retriever, Boxer, Australian Shepherd |
| 71–90 lb | 42–48" | German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Doberman |
| Over 90 lb | 48–54"+ | Great Dane, Mastiff, Newfoundland, Saint Bernard |
Which type of crate should I choose?
- Wire crates fold flat, let air through and usually come with a divider. Good for most homes.
- Plastic crates feel more den-like and are the usual choice for car and air travel. Airlines have their own size rules, so check before you fly.
- Soft crates are light and handy for calm, crate-trained dogs, but chewers can escape.
When should you talk to your vet or a trainer?
- Your dog panics in the crate: drooling, scratching at the door, or hurting itself trying to escape. This can be separation anxiety.
- Your older dog has arthritis and struggles to lie down or get up in the crate.
- Your puppy keeps soiling the crate even at the right size. It may need more frequent breaks, or have a urinary problem.
Frequently asked questions
What size crate does my dog need?
Measure your dog from nose to the base of the tail and from the floor to the top of the head (or ear tips). Add 2–4 inches to each. Pick the smallest standard crate whose inside length and height are at least that big.
How do I measure my dog for a crate?
With your dog standing, measure length from the tip of the nose to where the tail starts (not the tail tip). For height, measure from the floor to the top of the head or the tips of upright ears, whichever is taller. Measuring while your dog sits can give a taller number; use the taller one.
Can a crate be too big?
Yes, for house training. In a big crate, a puppy can sleep at one end and pee at the other. Use a divider panel to shrink the space and move it back as your puppy grows.
What size crate should I buy for a puppy?
Buy for the adult size and use a divider. Estimate adult length and height from the breed standard or the parents, or use the puppy weight calculator and the weight chart on this page.
Are crate sizes the same across brands?
No. A “36-inch” crate is always about 36 inches long, but heights vary by brand and style. Always check the listed inside dimensions, especially height for tall or long-legged dogs.
Is it cruel to crate a dog?
Not when it’s done well. A crate the right size, introduced with treats and never used as punishment, can feel like a safe den. Don’t crate a dog longer than it can comfortably hold its bladder, and don’t crate a dog that panics.
Sources
- American Kennel Club. Everything you need to know about crate training your dog (crate just large enough to stand, turn and lie down; divider for puppies). Updated Sep 2026. akc.org
- PetSmart Learning Center. Dog crate size chart (measure nose to tail base and floor to head or ears; add 2–4 inches; weight chart). petsmart.com
- Humane World for Animals (formerly HSUS). Crate training 101. humaneworld.org
Vet disclaimer: These are estimates for healthy pets. Your vet knows your pet. Ask them before changing diet or care, especially for puppies, kittens, seniors, pregnant pets or pets with health conditions. Read our medical disclaimer.