Which crate size for a puppy?

Size for the adult dog

A puppy grows out of a small crate within weeks, so buy once, for the adult. The inside should be the adult dog's length plus about 15 cm, and the height about 1.3 times its shoulder height plus 8 cm, so it can sit with its head up and turn.

For a pedigree puppy, the breed standard gives the adult size. For a mixed breed, the parents and the weight at four months are the best guide. Our size chart lists 84 breeds with the inside size and the matching wire crate.

Why a divider helps

A crate that is far too big can feel less safe, and a puppy may sleep at one end and use the other as a toilet. A divider panel in a wire crate keeps the space small at first and moves back as the puppy grows.

When a puppy reaches adult size

Height comes before weight. As a rough guide:

• Small breeds such as the Dachshund or the Cavalier: about 9 to 10 months.
• Medium breeds such as the Beagle or the Australian Shepherd: about 12 months.
• Large breeds such as the Labrador or the Golden Retriever: about 12 to 15 months.
• Giant breeds such as the Great Dane or the Bernese: up to 18 to 24 months.

When to order a crate made as furniture

Puppies chew, and they are still learning to be clean. A wire crate is the right tool for the first months. Once your dog is close to adult height, you know the exact size, and a piece of furniture with a den can replace the wire crate for good.

With a lead time of 6-10 weeks, ordering at about six months for small and medium breeds, or nine months for large breeds, means the furniture arrives as the dog is fully grown. We size the den from your dog's measurements on the day you ask.

Checklist

1. Find the adult size from the breed or the parents.
2. Buy a wire crate for the adult size, with a divider.
3. Move the divider back as the puppy grows.
4. Measure shoulder height and length near adult size.
5. Order the furniture about 6-10 weeks before you want it.

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