How to Choose a Dog Crate: A Guide to Type, Size and Safety

A dog crate can do a lot — from supporting house training to giving your pup a safe, cozy place to rest at home or on the go. But the right crate depends on your dog’s size, behavior and how you plan to use it. With so many options available, it can be hard to know where to start.

This guide describes the most common crate types and what to consider so you can make a confident decision for your dog.

Dog Crate Types and Styles

Not all crates are created equal — choosing the right one depends on your dog’s physique and personality, as well as your lifestyle as their owner. From classic wire crates that work well in most homes to heavy-duty options built for determined escape artists, each type has its strengths — and weaknesses.

Here are the pros and cons of the most common crate styles to help you find the right fit for your dog.

Wire crates

Wire crates are the most popular all-around option and a great starting point for many dogs.

• Pros. Wire crates offer excellent airflow and visibility, and many models fold flat for easy storage. They can also be used with a divider panel, which is especially helpful for adjusting the crate size as puppies grow.
• Cons. Wire crates can be noisy when your dog moves around. You may also need to purchase a cover if your dog prefers their crate to feel more like a den. This type may not be a good choice for dogs with anxiety, as they might chew on the bars and damage their teeth.

Plastic crates

Plastic crates are best for travel, easy cleanup and nervous dogs who prefer enclosed environments.

• Pros. Plastic crates provide a more enclosed, den-like environment, which can help anxious dogs feel calmer. They’re also good for containing messes and are easy to clean if your dog has an accident. They’re especially useful for air travel and car rides because many meet airline carrier requirements.
• Cons. Because plastic crates are more enclosed than wire kennels, they provide less airflow and visibility. They can also retain heat in warm weather and take up more room when not in use.

Soft-sided crates

Soft kennels — made from fabric and mesh stretched over a lightweight frame — are best suited for short-term use, portability and dogs who are already comfortable being crated.

• Pros. They’re portable, light and convenient, and can be a good choice for calm, well-trained dogs. They tend to work best for small dogs as a temporary option — such as during travel.
• Cons. The durability and quality of soft dog kennels can vary, and they’re not a good choice for anxious dogs who might chew or scratch the fabric to try to escape. Additionally, the fabric can be difficult to clean if your dog has an accident.

Heavy-duty crates

Heavy-duty crates are built with reinforced steel or aluminum and strong latching systems that are best for large, strong or escape-prone dogs.

• Pros. They are known for their durability and are designed for dogs who need extra-secure containment. They provide maximum security and peace of mind for pet owners with dogs who are prone to breaking out of standard crates.
• Cons. Because these crates are built with robust materials, they can be more expensive and heavier than other crate types. They’re not a good choice for travel and may be excessive for small or calm dogs.

Furniture-style crates

Furniture-style crates are ideal for everyday home use in shared living spaces where appearance and function both matter.

• Pros. Furniture-style crates double as end tables, credenzas or other home decor pieces, so they blend into your living space while providing your dog a dedicated spot to rest.
• Cons. The quality and durability of furniture-style crates can vary widely. Most are not ideal for heavy chewers, very large dogs or puppies. They also typically cost more than other crate styles because of the extra materials and design details.

How Big Should a Dog Crate Be?

When choosing a crate, a general rule of thumb is that your dog should be able to stand up without crouching, turn around easily and lie down in a natural position.

If a crate is too small, it can feel cramped and uncomfortable. If it’s too large, it may make potty training more difficult, as dogs are more likely to use one side as a bathroom.

How to Measure a Dog for a Crate

To choose the best crate size, you’ll need to take a few simple measurements of your dog. Here’s how to find the right fit:

• Step 1: Measure your dog’s length. With your dog standing, measure them from nose to tail. Add two to four inches to determine the correct crate length.
• Step 2: Measure your dog’s height. With your dog standing, measure from the ground to the top of their head or ears (whichever is taller). Add two to four inches to determine the correct crate height.
• Step 3: Adapt to growth. If you have a puppy, you should buy a crate that will fit their expected adult size and use a divider panel to adjust the space as your puppy grows.

Dog-Specific Considerations

Although your dog’s measurements are key to choosing a crate, there are other factors to consider as well.

Age

A wire crate with a divider panel is a good choice for puppies because it lets you adjust the interior space as they grow. For young adult dogs, choose crate materials that can withstand adolescent chewing. For older dogs, choose a crate with easy entry and that accommodates soft, supportive bedding to cushion sore joints.

Behavior

Dogs who get overwhelmed by activity or noise may do better in a plastic kennel or a wire crate covered with a blanket or specialized crate cover. If you have a large or strong dog, a heavy-duty option may be your best bet.

It’s important to train your dog to accept the crate before using it. A dog who tries to break out of a crate when you’re away could have separation or confinement anxiety. Consult a professional trainer or your veterinarian for help.

Body type

Standard crate dimensions may not account for the variety of different body types that dogs can have. For example, a tall, long greyhound will need a different-sized crate than a short, compact bulldog — even if they are the same weight.

Dog Crate Safety Features

Before you buy a crate, check for these important safety and comfort features:

• Secure latches. Latches should close firmly and stay shut. Double-latch or slide-bolt designs offer extra security.
• Smooth edges. There should be no sharp wires, rough seams or protruding hardware that could scratch or poke your dog.
• Appropriate bar spacing. For wire crates, the gaps between bars should be narrow enough to prevent a paw or muzzle from getting stuck.
• Stable design. The crate should sit flat and not wobble or tip when your dog moves around.
• Good ventilation. Adequate airflow is important for plastic and soft-sided crates. Look for multiple ventilation openings to keep your dog comfortable.
• Easy-to-clean tray. A removable, washable tray makes cleanup simple if your dog has an accident or spills food.

Dog Crates for Home and Travel

How you plan to use your dog’s crate can influence the type and setup that will work best. If you travel frequently, you may want more than one crate — one for home use and another for trips.

Dog crates for home

At home, place the crate in a quiet area near a main living space so your dog can still see and hear family members for comfort. When introducing the crate, start with short periods of time and gradually increase the duration, using treats and toys to create a positive experience.

Dog crates for travel

For car travel, choose a crate that fits securely in your vehicle and provides good ventilation. A soft-sided, pop-up style kennel can be a convenient option and may help your dog feel more comfortable on the go.

For air travel, you’ll need a crate that meets airline requirements for size, materials and labeling.

Do Vets Recommend Dog Crates?

In most cases, veterinarians recommend crate training and the routine use of crates for dogs of all ages, sizes and breeds. Confining curious puppies can prevent them from getting into something dangerous when you aren’t home. It also gives them a comfortable place to go when they are overwhelmed or stressed.

Veterinarians also recommend using a crate to house train puppies. Keeping them in a crate with minimal extra space discourages them from soiling their sleeping area.

Just remember that a crate should never be used to punish your dog. Don’t force your dog into their crate or make them use it if they become anxious or destructive when confined. If you notice this behavior, consult a veterinary behavior professional for help.

Why crate training matters

Even older, well-behaved dogs may need to be crated in some situations. For example, they may need to be boarded during a vacation, hospitalized at the vet or confined when a repair person or guest comes to your home. For those and other possible reasons, vets recommend that all dogs learn to remain calm in a crate.

Finding the Crate That’s Right for Your Dog

Understanding the different types, how you and your dog will use the crate and the various factors to consider can help you choose the best crate for your dog. Matching the crate to your dog’s needs and pairing it with a positive training protocol sets the stage for a successful experience. If you notice your dog becoming anxious in the crate or trying to escape, consult your vet or a trainer for help.

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Author Bio

Angela Beal, D.V.M., has more than 20 years of experience as a veterinarian. Leveraging her background in private practice and academia, she uses her passion for writing to convey information to pet owners to help them keep their pets healthy and happy.