Wag & Ride

How to choose a dog crate

A crate gives a dog a settled place to rest and keeps a puppy safe when you cannot supervise. This guide covers size, type and set-up.

Measure your dog first

Measure from nose to the base of the tail and from the floor to the top of the head or ears while your dog is standing. Add roughly 5 to 10 cm to each figure.

Length and height

Your dog should be able to stand without ducking, turn round and lie flat on their side.

Puppies

Buy for the adult size and use a divider panel, or choose a crate with a movable partition, so the space is not too big while they are small.

Check

Always compare the internal size, not the listed outer size.

Weight

Check the supplier weight guidance as well as the dimensions, especially for large breeds.

Types of dog crate

Different crate types suit different homes.

Metal wire crates

Strong, well ventilated and often foldable with a removable tray. They suit most dogs at home.

Doors

Two doors give more ways to position the crate in a room.

Tip

Cover three sides with a breathable blanket if your dog likes a den.

Furniture-style crates

Wooden or wire crates that double as a side table. They look neat in a living room but check the interior size and ventilation.

Cushions

Look for a removable, washable cushion.

Soft and travel crates

Lighter fabric crates are handy for car trips and visits. They are not suitable for dogs that chew or scratch.

Car use

For car travel, use a crate that is designed to be secured in the vehicle and read our car safety guide.

Using a crate well

A crate should be a positive place.

Introduce gradually

Leave the door open, add a bed and a few treats and let your dog explore in their own time.

Time limits

Avoid long periods in a crate. Follow your vet's advice on how long a dog of their age can be left.

Never

Never use a crate as punishment and never leave a dog in a closed crate in a hot car.

Frequently asked questions

What size crate do I need?

Measure your dog standing and add 5 to 10 cm. They should be able to stand, turn round and lie down.

Are furniture crates safe?

Furniture crates are fine for home use if they are the right size, ventilated and assembled correctly. Check the product details before buying.

Can a puppy use a large crate?

Yes, if you use a divider so the space is not too big. A crate that is too big can make house-training harder.

Shop the range

Browse our Dog Crates & Cages. Free UK delivery over £40, 30-day returns and dispatch from the UK.