Now that you have chosen the perfect dog (or been chosen by the perfect dog) it is time to purchase the right crate for your dog’s size.

Your dog’s crate can be one of the most expensive purchases for him/her, especially if it’s a big dog, but this is not where you want to cheap out.

Dogs are naturally den animals – like their wild cousins, wolves, their personal den is where they can find comfort, safety, and security. The perfect dog crate sizes give them a place to snooze or hide from a thunderstorm.

What are the different dog crate sizes?

First you need to determine what type of crate to buy and how big it should be using typical dog crate sizes.

Crates should be big enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down. He/she should have three to four inches of extra head space when sitting or standing. This will help with puppy training as dogs have a natural desire to not “going” where they sleep.

Do not make the common mistake of buying a crate that is too big for your dog. If too large, your dog may “go potty” in one corner and sleep in another.

We have provided a chart to help give you an idea of dog crate sizes to purchase for your dog. Please note these sizing recommendations and breed examples are manufacturer standards intended to give a general idea and you should size according to the size of your dog.

Crate Size	Weight of the Dog	Best for Which Breeds
18″x18″	Under 24 lbs	Chihuahua
18″x24″	Under 30 lbs
Check Out The Best Crates for Chihuahuas
24″x18″	Under 30 lbs	Affenpinscher, Cairn Terrier, Havanese, Japanese Chin, Maltese, Norfolk Terrier, Pekingese, Pomeranian, Scottish Terrier, Shih Tzu, Skye Terrier, Silky Terrier, Toy Poodle, Toy Fox Terrier, West Highland White Terrier, Yorkshire Terrier
24″x24″	Under 38 lbs
Check Out The Best Crates for Small Dogs
24″x30″	Under 40 lbs	Cocker Spaniel, Australian Terrier, Basset Hound, Bichon Frise, Boston Terrier, French Bulldog, Bull Terrier, Cardigan Welsh Corgi, Dachshund, Italian Greyhound, Jack Russell Terrier, Lhasa Apso, Poodle, Schnauzer, Parson Russell Terrier, Wirehaired Fox Terrier
24″x36″	Under 40 lbs
30″x24″	0-40 lbs	American Eskimo Dog, American Staffordshire Terrier, Basenji, Beagle, Brittany Spaniel, Chinese Sharpei, Chow Chow, German Pinscher, Irish Terrier, Keeshond, Kerry Blue Terrier
30″x30″	40-50 lbs
30″x36″	50-60 lbs
36″x24″	40-60 lbs	American Pit Bull Terrier, Australian Cattle Dog, Border Collie, Bull Terrier, Dalmatian, Old English Sheepdog
36″x30″	50-60 lbs
36″x36″	60-80 lbs
See Our Expert Review of the Best Crates
42″x30″	80-100 lbs	Airedale Terrier, Alaskan Malamute, American Bulldog, Boxer, Briard, Malinois, Tervueren
42″x36″	80-100 lbs
48″x24″	80-90 lbs	Airedale Terrier, Alaskan Malamute, Boxer, Briard, Dalmatian, Malinois, Tervueren
48″x30″	80-100 lbs
48″x36″	Up to 100 lbs	Afghan, Akita, Bloodhound, Borzoi, Chinook, Doberman Pinscher, German Shepherd, Gordon Setter, Greyhound, Irish Setter, Leonberger, Neopolitan Mastiff, Newfoundland, Pointer, Rottweiler, Siberian Husky, Standard Poodle, Weimaraner
60″x36″	100-150 lbs	Akita, Anatolian Shepherd Dog, Bernese Mountain Dog, Bullmastiff, Great Dane, Great Pyrenees, Irish Wolfhound, Leonberger, Mastiff, Newfoundland, Scottish Deerhound, Siberian Husky
Check Out Our Review of The Best Large Dog Crates

What are the different dog crate types?

After you decide which dog crate sizes work best for your dog, you then need to decide which type of crate you will need. These typically vary depending on the use – permanent dog home inside your house or one that will be used for traveling.

All the different dog crate sizes typically fall into the following three basic types of crates:

Wire crates

Pros		Cons
+	many wire crates are collapsible making them easier to store and transport when folded flat.	–	heaviest of the crate choices
+	easier to clean – can be hosed off and many have polyethylene floor pans that are removable	–	see-through sides may make a cover necessary (which will negate the air-flow feature)
+	better ventilation – allows for a lot of airflow	–	will rust after a while
+	can be sized for your growing dog with removable divider panels	–	tends to be noisy when your dog moves around
+	provide more and better visibility for your dog
+	won’t absorb odors

 

Plastic crates

Pros		Cons
+	easy to clean out	–	not as much air circulation
+	because the sides are mostly solid, they provide more of the “den” feel. Your dog may feel a greater sense of security and privacy	–	plastic absorbs odors so you may not be able to get rid of the dog smell
+	can be used for airline travel (required by law)	–	bulky
+	can be stacked when not in use if you have multiple dogs	–	you may need to purchase a bigger one as your puppy grows

Soft-sided crates

Pros		Cons
+	great for car rides and for carrying small dog	–	bad for dogs that chew, scratch or are skittish in a crate
+	easy to transport as they are the lightest crate you can buy	–	dog can escape easier
+	fold down and can be easily stored when not in use	–	since they are made of fabric they are more difficult to clean

You might not think your small dog would need a crate or kennel because they can fit in almost anything, but you could possibly be depriving your little one a basic need: a space to call their own.

All dogs have a natural instinct to rest in a safe, enclosed space for their naps, referred by experts as a “den”. In the wild, this den gives them a chance to catch some z’s without worrying about what is lurking out in the dark.

Although no longer out in the jungle, your dog still has this urge and it can easily be met with a small dog crate or kennel.

The Best Small Dog Crates for In-Home

To provide you with the best small dog crate for sale, we follow a rigid review method that factors in quality of materials, customer reviews, veterinarian opinions, and price. Below are the best crates for small dogs for each crate type; metal, hard-sided plastic, and soft-sided cloth.

 MidWest iCrate Double-Door Folding Metal Crate

Best Overall Value Crate.   The veterinarians that we consulted for this review clearly preferred metal wire crates for small dogs because they have been found to provide the most visibility and air flow possible. This in turn gives your dog the most comfort, making a happy dog and a happy you.

Therefore, we found the Midwest iCrate dog crates to provide the best overall value for all small dog crates for sale because of its quality wire construction, maximum air flow, and super low price. It also featured:

• Lightest small dog crate we tested.
• Folds up and down in seconds.
• Easy to operate secure latch system.
• Latches when folded to keep the small crate from unfolding when you carry it.
• Includes FREE Divider Panel so you only need one crate for your dog to grow into.
• Divider panel makes house training a breeze – just let your puppy do his business in one end and sleep in the other.
• Removable, waterproof floor in case of any accidents.
• Rounded edges so you and your dog wont get any scratches when you bump into it.

And if you are tired of the same old unsightly black wire frame, they even offer a blue edition and pink edition to match your dog’s personality!

New Age Pet Habitat ‘n Home InnPlace Pet Crate

Best Luxury Indoor Crate. We admit that black wire crates may be a less expensive way to give your dog a home, but they often don’t look very good in your living room! Luckily there is a small dog kennel that does.

The New Age Pet Habitat ‘n Home looks great is any house with its brushed stainless steel spindles in the door and the sides. Also called a “crate table”, they make your dog feel at home while serving as a great end table. So when you are relaxing on the couch, your small dog can finally relax too.

Additional features:

• Made from ecoFLEX, an environmental-friendly and durable composite material
• Will not absorb smells or liquids
• Easy to clean
• Easy to setup without tools in 10 minutes
• Requires no maintenance

The Best Small Dog Crates for Travel

Petmate Two Door Top Load Pet Kennel

Best Value Travel Crate. If you happen to be a jet setter heading on vacation or frequent the train, a hard sided small dog kennel might be ideal for you. These types of crates for small dogs are easy to clean and if your little dog is skittish, can provide that extra security to make their trip just a little bit easier.

After our hand-on review of available plastic models, we found the Petmate Two Door to be the absolute best dog crate for small dogs. In particular, we appreciated the thicker, sturdier plastic material, the top load feature for quickly putting our puppy in the crate, and the fact that it has surprisingly good air flow for being a plastic dog crate.

Other features included:

• Has a comfort carry handle at the top
• Made in the USA
• Very secure bolt design for both doors
• Meets air travel regulations for international and domestic flights
• Stack-able with other hard side small dog kennels

We did find the crate to a little heavy when we carried our puppy due to the nature of the thick plastic, but the added security is well worth it.

Sherpa Deluxe Pet Carrie

Best Luxury Travel Crate. Admit, everyone likes to ride in style, why should your small dog be any different? With this Sherpa Deluxe soft-sided dog crate, your pup won’t want the trip to end they will be so comfortable with the mesh ventilation, padded faux lambskin liner, and dual entry. It also features:

• Various color options
• Padded handle carry straps
• Locking zippers
• Completely machine washable
• Soft frame design and fiberglass support rod system for flexible yet solid construction
• No-slip, adjustable shoulder strap included
• Top loading and side entry for easy access
• Wooden stability board wrapped in waterproof lining
• Seatbelt/luggage strap for any kind of traveling

How To Buy The Right Small Dog Crates

What are small dog crates?

A small dog crate is a rectangular enclosure with a top, a bottom, and a door made in a variety of sizes. These enclosures can be constructed out of wire mesh, heavy-duty plastic, wood, or fabric.

The purpose of small dog crates are to provide confinement for security, safety, housebreaking, protection of household goods, travel, or illness. The small dog kennel has long been accepted and used by trainers, breeders, groomers, and dog show exhibitors.

Small dog crates are ideal for puppies but also certain breeds because it will be their permanent home/travel case. In particular, one of our reviewers Chihuahua crate has been their most prized possession due to its frequent use and soothes their dog on long trips.

Why use small dog crates?

Small dog crates can provide many advantages to both you and your dog. You can enjoy peace of mind when leaving your dog home alone.

You can also housebreak your dog more quickly by using the close confinement to encourage control and to prevent accidents at night or when left alone.

The crates for small dogs also allows your dog to feel safe and secure in his own “den” or “doghouse”. An additional advantage of using a dog crate is that it is easier and safer to travel with a dog when using a crate to control them.

What kind of small dog crates are best?

Veterinarians prefer the wire mesh small dog crates as opposed to kennels constructed of plastic, wood, or fabric because they restrict air and vision.

Today’s wire crates for small dogs offer convenience and versatility – features that usually make them a better choice for most small dog owners. The collapsible wire mesh type is available in a variety of sizes. They are lightweight and easy to handle. Wire mesh crates can be folded and easily stored. They also allow total air-flow and allows the dog to see everything going on around him/her. They are also less convenient to handle, transport, and to store.

If you prefer a different small dog crate material, say you need a plastic small dog crate for a flight, we also extensively reviewed the best dog crates for sale. Your dog might also prefer a certain type of crate. Our reviewer’s Chihuahua crate has to be plastic or else it will never relax and fall asleep.

But it doesn’t matter if you are looking for the best Affenpinscher crate, Cairn Terrier crate, Havanese crate, Japanese Chin crate, Maltese crate, Norfolk Terrier crate, Pekingese crate, Pomeranian crate, Scottish Terrier crate, Shih Tzu crate, Skye Terrier crate, Silky Terrier crate, Toy Poodle crate, Toy Fox Terrier crate, West Highland White Terrier crate, or the best Yorkshire Terrier crate, the simple fact remains that all dogs require a home to call their own and the crate provides the best solution.

What size small dog crates are right for my dog?

When buying a crate for your small dog, make sure it is big enough to let your dog stretch out flat without being cramped and also be able to sit up without hitting his/her head on the top. Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Small dogs under 24 pounds, such as a crate for a Chihuahua, would probably be suited for a 18″ x 18″, dogs under 30 pounds, such as a Shih Tzu, Toy Poodle, or Yorkshire Terrier, would use a 24″ x 18″ or 24″ x 24″ small dog crate.

How much do small dog crates cost?

You can expect to pay between $50-$125 for a quality crate or kennel for tiny dogs. It may sound like a lot of money, but a good small dog crate will quickly pay for itself in peace of mind and undamaged carpets and furniture. Even the most expensive small dog crates are a bargain when compared to the cost of repairing or replacing furniture, woodwork, wallpaper, or carpeting.

Just like small dogs, x large dogs have an innate desire for a safe space for their naps, a place they can “get away from it all” – it just needs to be an extra large space!

We at DogMD have followed a rigid research and review method to determine the top x large dog crate available and have come up with a list of our favorites. These factor in quality of materials used, opinions from top veterinarians, reviews from consumers, and price.

Best Wire Crate for X Large Dogs

As a veterinarian, I constantly get asked what the preferred are and I always say that their dog will love a x large dog wire crates due to increased air flow and ventilation. This is a necessity especially if you reside in a warmer climate or your dog has a heavy coat. The wire crate also lets your dog see the world around him.

You want to look for a sturdy x large dog crate that is constructed with heavy gauge wire so your dog can’t break out of it. Wire crates are also easy to clean – most have removable bottom pans and can be easily hosed off.

MidWest iCrate Double-Door Folding X Large Metal Dog Crate

This sturdy wire mesh crate is perfect for dogs up to 110 pounds. There are two doors for easy access and it comes with a divider panel (perfect for when your x large dog is still a puppy and the x large crate is too big for him) and a composite plastic floor pan. The great thing about this crate is that it is foldable – making it portable and easy to store. To top it all it off, the manufacturer of this x large dog crate offers a one year guarantee and great customer service!

• More than enough space for you big dog or two medium sized breeds
• Includes a divider and easy double door access
• Easily collapsed and much lighter than other types of x large dog crates
• Safe and secure slide bolt latch with high quality construction

Best Plastic Crate for X Large Dogs

Plastic x large dog crates are made of molded two-piece resin with ventilation screens on the sides and a steel door on the front. X large dog crates constructed of plastic do offer your dog more of the “den” feel. They are generally more lightweight and portable and are also easily hosed out. Plastic crates typically restrict air flow and the vision of the dog and are more susceptible to being chewed on. They are also less easily stored.

Petmate Sky Kennel for X Large Dogs

We found that Petmate makes the best plastic extra crates in two x large dog sizes. We especially liked that they are constructed with thick, sturdy plastic with non-corrosive wing nuts and extra strong steel wire. Best of all, they offer four-way ventilation for your dog and are approved for air travel. An added bonus is that these extra large dog crates are made right here in the USA!

• Reinforced, high-grade plastic construction made in the USA
• Steel forged hinge and locking mechanism to make sure your x large dog stays put
• Patented 4-way ventilation system to keep the kennel cool
• “Live Animal” sticker and clip on water bowls included

Best Soft-Sided Crate for X Large Dogs

The softsided x large dog crate is the lightest weight dog crate you can buy. They are collapsible and easily stored and transported. However, they are not meant for an extra large dog that chews or scratches. Softsided crates are also more difficult to clean.

Guardian Gear Collapsible Folding Soft Portable Dog Crate XL for X Large Breed Dogs

This crate offers large mesh windows on all four sides for maximum airflow and ventilation. Also, there are side panels that can be rolled up or down. This softsided x large dog crate can be assembled in just seconds with no tools needed. Included is faux sheepskin mat that is machine washable!

• Can be assembled in seconds and collapsed in even less time, all without tools
• Excellent ventilation with mesh windows on four sides and side panel flaps that opened and closed
• Each includes a machine-washable faux sheepskin mat, wiped clean exterior, matching carrying case, and even ground stakes for outside use

How to Measure Your Dog For the Right X Large Dog Crate

There are two easy steps to ensure the cage you purchase for your x large dog is the right size. First, with your dog standing, measure from the tip of his nose to the base of his tail. Then add 2 to 4 inches and you will have the perfect length of crate needed for him to stretch out and move around – without having too much space. Second, sit your dog down and measure from the floor to the tallest point of his head. Again you will add 2-4 inches to this measurement and you will have the shortest height the extra large dog crate should be. Therefore, the dimensions of the crate should be the first measurement (plus 2-4 inches) by the second measurement (plus 2-4 inches) – A x B = correct x large dog crate size.

An unexpected illness or injury can happen at any time, even for our furry family members. Having the best dog insurance can help offset the costs, but deciding on whether or not to buy the insurance can be a tough call.

Dog insurance is becoming very popular though, which isn’t too surprising if you consider how quick dog care bills are growing. Here are just a few common dog injuries and their cost:

Dental Surgery for a stick	$1,656
Remove a swallowed pin	$2,964
Stomach inflammation	$5,084
Repair a cruciate ligament	$3,542
Treat a cancerous tumor	$9,650
Fixing a broken hip	$18,013

Get the Best Insurance for Your Best Friend

Finding the right dog insurance can be a daunting task. That’s why we’ve done in-depth research and spoken with real customers for each company to bring you our top 3 picks this year. Below are some items you may want to check out to learn more about this subject as well as how we perform our exhaustive review process.

Our dog insurance reviews are constantly being updated so be sure to check in regularly for new information. Awards are given each year to help you find the best dog insurance company for your needs.

PetPremium – Best Overall

The results are in! PetPremium is our winner for 2016!

Choosing the best dog insurance was tough but in the end, PetPremium ended up offering the best plans for the least amount of money. A relative newcomer to the insurance scene, PetPremium has been making waves with its awesome value!

Why is PetPremium the Best Dog Insurance?

1. The Most Affordable and Diverse Plan Options – We love PetPremium because there are three tiers to choose from and they cover not only common things but also uncommon things like acupuncture, chiropractic care, and even laser therapy. It’s the most extensive coverage available—anywhere.
2. Life-Long Coverage at a Constant Cost – Some dog insurers put complex restrictions on your coverage if you file a claim. With PetPremium, your coverage remains the same year after year; they won’t penalize you if your dog gets sick or hurt by raising your rates.
3. Built-in Wellness Plan to Cover Routine Vet Visits – Most insurance policies offer zero wellness coverage. PetPremium offers two medical and wellness plans to help cover those routine (but expensive!) trips to the vet.
4. Customer Satisfaction is the #1 Goal – When you go with a major carrier like PetPremium, you know that you are going to get the best customer service available because they know how to hold on to members. With PetPremium, what you see is what you get: the #1 recommended dog insurer

PetPremium Coupon Code

Use this link to receive a free quote and 30 day money back guarantee!

PetPremium Testimonials and Reviews

Healthy Paws – Runner Up

Why is Healthy Paws One of the Best Dog Insurance?

1. Tons of Plans with Absolutely No Claim Limits – We were impressed that Healthy Paws offers three annual deductible levels ($100, $250 or $500), three percentage options for actual vet-bill payouts (70%, 80% or 90%) and that there is no cap (per-incident, lifetime, or otherwise) on any of their claims.
2. Perfect for Risk-Prone Dogs – They are unique in that once your annual deductible is met, all policy-covered incidents will be paid during that year, while most companies pay back after each incident deductible is met. So if your dog is susceptible to trouble more than once a year or you just want to be on the safe side, this plan is a good fit.
3. Top of the Line Customer Satisfaction – Healthy Paws has some of the best customer service reviews in the business.
4. Pays Out on Hip Dysplasia and Hereditary/Congenital Conditions  – Most hereditary and congenital conditions, as well as hip dysplasia, are paid. This makes it an especially great choice if you have a breed that is genetically predisposed to these types of conditions. But, be sure to sign them up when they’re young and do not have any pre-existing conditions.

Healthy Paws Coupon Code

Use this link and you’ll receive a 10% discount.

Embrace – Third Place

Why is Embrace One of the Best Dog Insurance?

1. Optional Wellness Plan – They also offer an optional wellness plan. Their Wellness Plan levels are $250, $450 and $650. All Wellness plans cover the same things: dental cleanings, prescription food, nutritional supplements, medicated shampoos and behavioral training but adjust for varying annual cost levels.
2. Fully-Customizable Plans – With Embrace, you can completely customize your plan (adjust deductible, reimbursement percentage and coverage options) so that you can create one plan that works within just about any budget.
3. All Plans Have Hereditary Coverage – These conditions can lie dormant for years and when they do show signs it can be very expensive to treat them, often totalling several thousands of dollars. You can rest easy knowing Embrace covers hereditary and genetic conditions with every policy.
4. Percentage reimbursement – of our plans reimburse your claim as a straight percentage of your actual vet bill so you get more money back.

Embrace Coupon Code

Use this link and you’ll receive a 5% discount with Embrace.

Why You Can Trust Our Reviews

Want to know how we come up with our winners and where we get our information from?

Unlike other sites, our reviews are conducted before any monetary affiliation or relationships with any merchants on this page are created. We take great pride in this since our reviews are authentic and you can trust us. We offer:

• In-depth category research
• Expert reviews from users
• Customer feedback
• Comments on other review sites and retailers (Amazon, BBB, Yelp, etc.)
• Feedback from social media channels

We have created a system over the past 9+ years that our readers trust. Because we immerse ourselves in the subject every single day, it gives us the opportunity to give you the most in-depth, unbiased review of any given product, service or category related to dogs.