Choose The Right Size Kennel For Your Dog

For our beloved furry friends, a dog crate is more than just a shelter; it's their cozy haven. However, an ill-fitting dog house can hurt your pet's growth and obedience. When our four-legged companions are sick, scared, or injured, they instinctively yearn for a secure and comfortable space to retreat to. As pet parents, we are constantly on the lookout for the perfect dog crate that meets all their needs. But with so many options available, how do we ensure we select the right size? Fear not! This guide is here to address all your concerns and help you make an informed decision.

Key factors in choosing dog kennel size

Length: The length of the kennel should be at least 10-15 cm longer than the dog's body length, from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, so that the dog can fully stretch out in it without feeling cramped.

For instance, in the case of small dog breeds, such as the Chihuahua or the Pomeranian, a kennel length ranging from approximately 18 to 24 in would be deemed appropriate.

Medium-sized dogs, like the Cocker Spaniel or the Border Collie, thrive in kennels with a length spanning 28 to 36 in. This provides them with the room they need to sprawl out comfortably after an active day of play or training.

When it comes to large breeds, such as the Labrador Retriever or the German Shepherd, a kennel length of 38 to 48 inches or more is recommended. Their robust physiques demand a more expansive space to accommodate their size and movement.

Width: Sufficient width enables the dog to turn around freely. Generally, it is recommended to be about 4 inches wider than the dog's shoulder width, stopping the dog from knocking against the kennel wall when it turns. This is an important factor to consider when choosing the right width for a dog kennel.

Moreover, previous studies have shown that when dogs live in larger spaces, they tend to be more active. This also indicates the importance of providing a reasonably spacious kennel for dogs. For example, Normando et al. experimentally concluded in 2014 that dogs kept in pairs in a 193.8 square foot fence were 1.34 times more active than dogs kept alone in a 96.9 square foot kennel. A larger space allocation can not only offer more opportunities for activities but also increase the likelihood of dogs displaying more natural behaviors.

Height: For some dogs that like to stand, raise their heads or jump, the height of the kennel should take into account their activity needs. At the very least, the kennel's height should ensure that the dog can stand naturally inside without hitting its head on the top. Especially for some lively and active medium-and large-sized dog breeds, such as Boxers and Labrador Retrievers, a taller kennel should be chosen to avoid causing them discomfort or restlessness.

Size characteristics of different types of dog kennels

Indoor Dog Kennels

Common indoor dog kennels include plastic dog cages, which are usually lightweight, easy to carry, inexpensive and easy to clean. There are numerous sizes available for selection, making them suitable for families with small dogs. 

Wicker basket dog kennels are usually more aesthetically pleasing. However, their sizes are relatively fixed, so precise measurements are necessary when purchasing them.

Wooden crates are usually table-like. They are elegant and attractive, thus being able to blend in with our home decor. Their drawback is that they easily absorb odors and are difficult to clean. They are not suitable for puppies under training.

Metal crates are becoming increasingly popular because they are not only sturdy and durable but also available in a variety of sizes. Nevertheless, they are relatively expensive and may not be tall enough for large dogs to stand up completely.

Outdoor Dog Kennels

When it comes to outdoor dog kennels, they generally need to be of larger sizes to ensure that dogs can move around freely. Moreover, the weather resistance of the materials is a crucial factor to consider. Plastic materials are prone to breakage under the influence of outdoor elements such as sunlight and temperature changes, while wood is likely to rot over time due to moisture and other weather conditions. In contrast, metal dog kennels have significant advantages in this regard. Metal is sturdy and can withstand various weather conditions like rain, snow, and sunlight for a long period, making it a more suitable choice for outdoor use.

If you plan to keep your dog outdoors for an extended period, sufficient space inside the kennel is necessary for placing warm pads or insulation materials to keep your furry friend cozy in cold weather. Additionally, you should choose an appropriately sized dog kennel according to the specific size and layout of the outdoor environment where it will be placed. This way, your dog can have a comfortable and safe space outdoors.

For example, Veikous large dog kennel with a removable roof is a great option. It allows your dog to enjoy the warm sunshine on sunny days and protects it from wind and rain during rainy seasons, providing a versatile and comfortable outdoor living space for your pet.

How to measure dogs and dog kennels

How to Measure Dogs

To accurately measure your dog, you will need a soft ruler or tape measure. First, make your dog sit or stand upright. Then, measure the height of your dog by determining the distance from the floor to the highest point of its head or ears. Next, measure the length of your dog when it is standing still. This length should be measured from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail. Place the ruler or tape measure across the widest part of your dog's shoulders to get its shoulder width.

Tips for Measuring Dog Houses

When buying a doghouse, you need to know its internal dimensions, including the measurement positions of length, width and height. Some doghouses may have size errors due to their design shapes, resulting in the actual available space not matching the nominal size. So be careful when measuring and choosing. When buying in offline stores, you can place the dog's old blankets or toys in the doghouse to observe whether the proportions are suitable.

Common Misconceptions and Precautions

Misconceptions: We usually hold the wrong idea that as long as a dog can be squeezed into a doghouse, it's okay. Or we tend to go to extremes in pursuing large doghouses and overlook the dog's need for a sense of security. A cramped space is detrimental to the physical health of pets and can significantly affect their sleep quality. On the other hand, if the space is too large, some dogs may feel uneasy, which might lead to various problems such as anxiety and chewing behavior.

Precautions: When buying a doghouse, you must also consider the quality and safety of the doghouse, ensure that there are no hidden dangers that may harm the dog, such as sharp corners or parts that are prone to detachment. Secondly, as well as the impact of the placement of the doghouse on the size selection. Adequate space must be available around the doghouse to guarantee the dog's easy access and egress. Additionally, given that dogs grow and their physical dimensions change, At the same time, monitor the fluctuations in the dog's height and weight during its growth phase. Regularly check whether the size of the kennel remains suitable for the dog's current stature.