Crate training is one of the most effective and humane ways to help your puppy adjust to their new home. A crate provides a safe, comfortable, and personal space for your puppy while also assisting with housebreaking, preventing destructive behavior, and making travel easier.
Many new puppy owners worry that crating might be cruel or feel like punishment. However, when introduced properly, a crate becomes a cozy den where puppies feel secure and relaxed.
Why Every Puppy Needs a Crate
🐾 Housebreaking: Puppies naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area, making a crate a useful tool for potty training.
🐾 Safety: Crates prevent puppies from chewing furniture, getting into dangerous objects, or running loose while unsupervised.
🐾 Travel Convenience: Whether for car rides or vet visits, a crate provides a secure way to transport your puppy.
🐾 Comfort & Security: Dogs are den animals by nature, and a crate gives them a place to relax, nap, and retreat when they need alone time.
📌 Fact: According to veterinarians and trainers, crate training—when done correctly—reduces separation anxiety and helps puppies settle into their home more quickly.
What This Guide Covers
This guide will help you:
✔ Choose the best crate size for your puppy’s breed.
✔ Understand different crate types and their benefits.
✔ Find the best crates for small, medium, large, and giant breed puppies.
✔ Learn how to introduce and crate train your puppy properly.
By the end, you’ll know exactly which crate suits your puppy’s needs and how to make crate training a positive experience!
How to Choose the Right Crate for Your Puppy
Selecting the right crate for your puppy is crucial for their comfort, safety, and effective training. The wrong size or type can make crate training stressful instead of beneficial. Here’s how to choose the perfect crate based on your puppy’s breed, size, and needs.
1. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Puppy Crate
🐾 Size – The crate should be large enough for your puppy to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not too large that they can use one side as a bathroom.
🐾 Material – Different crate materials offer different benefits:
✔ Wire Crates – Great ventilation, durable, collapsible for storage.
✔ Plastic Crates – Travel-friendly, more enclosed for anxious puppies.
✔ Soft-Sided Crates – Lightweight and portable for small breeds.
✔ Heavy-Duty Crates – Escape-proof and strong for large breeds.
✔ Furniture-Style Crates – Stylish, blends with home décor.
🐾 Ventilation – Make sure the crate has proper airflow so your puppy stays comfortable.
🐾 Ease of Cleaning – Puppies have accidents! Look for a crate with a removable tray for easy cleanup.
🐾 Safety Features – Ensure secure latches to prevent escape and avoid crates with sharp edges.
2. How to Measure Your Puppy for the Right Crate Size
To ensure the crate is the right size, follow these steps:
📏 Step 1: Measure Your Puppy
- Length: Measure from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail. Add 2–4 inches for comfort.
- Height: Measure from the floor to the top of the head or ears (whichever is taller). Add 2–4 inches for clearance.
📌 Example: If your puppy is 18 inches long and 15 inches tall, a 22–24 inch crate would be the ideal size.
📏 Step 2: Consider Growth
- If your puppy is a large breed, get a crate with an adjustable divider so it grows with them.
- Some crates come with size recommendations based on weight and breed.
3. Should You Buy a Crate Your Puppy Can Grow Into?
🐾 For Small & Medium Breeds: A single-sized crate is fine since they won’t outgrow it quickly.
🐾 For Large & Giant Breeds: Yes! Buy a larger crate with a divider panel, so you can adjust the space as your puppy grows.
📌 Tip: Using a divider prevents your puppy from using one end as a bathroom while still providing enough space to sleep comfortably.
Key Takeaway
🐾 Choose a crate that allows your puppy to stand, turn, and stretch comfortably.
🐾 Consider growth, material, ventilation, and ease of cleaning when making a choice.
🐾 For large breeds, buy a bigger crate with a divider so they can grow into it.
Types of Puppy Crates and Their Benefits
There are several types of puppy crates available, each designed for different purposes. The right one depends on your puppy’s breed, temperament, and lifestyle. Below is a breakdown of the most common crate types and their benefits.
1. Wire Crates – 🏡 Best for Ventilation and Adjustability
Pros:
✔ Great airflow – keeps puppies cool.
✔ Foldable and easy to store.
✔ Adjustable divider – ideal for growing puppies.
✔ Allows for good visibility – helps with separation anxiety.
Cons:
❌ Some puppies may chew on metal bars.
❌ Can be heavy and less travel-friendly.
📌 Best for:
🐶 Medium to large breeds (Labrador, Golden Retriever, Boxer, etc.).
🐶 Puppies who need a crate that grows with them.
2. Plastic Crates – ✈️ Best for Travel and Nervous Puppies
Pros:
✔ Cozy and den-like – helps anxious puppies feel secure.
✔ Lightweight and portable – great for travel.
✔ Airline-approved for flying with pets.
Cons:
❌ Less ventilation than wire crates.
❌ Can be harder to clean.
📌 Best for:
🐶 Small to medium breeds (Beagle, French Bulldog, Cocker Spaniel, etc.).
🐶 Puppies who need a quiet, enclosed space.
3. Soft-Sided Crates – 🎒 Best for Small Breeds & Travel
Pros:
✔ Super lightweight and easy to carry.
✔ Great for car rides or vet visits.
✔ Soft and comfortable for puppies.
Cons:
❌ Not chew-proof – not ideal for teething puppies.
❌ Not escape-proof – not suitable for strong dogs.
📌 Best for:
🐶 Toy and small breeds (Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Yorkie, etc.).
🐶 Puppies who travel frequently with their owners.
4. Heavy-Duty Crates – 🔐 Best for Strong & Escape-Prone Puppies
Pros:
✔ Extremely durable – made for strong dogs.
✔ Escape-proof latches.
✔ Great for breeds with separation anxiety.
Cons:
❌ Expensive compared to other crate types.
❌ Heavy and not easily transportable.
📌 Best for:
🐶 Large and giant breeds (Great Dane, Mastiff, Husky, etc.).
🐶 Dogs prone to chewing or breaking out of regular crates.
5. Furniture-Style Crates – 🏠 Best for Home Aesthetics
Pros:
✔ Blends into home décor – can double as a side table.
✔ Great for crate-trained dogs who no longer need a traditional crate.
Cons:
❌ More expensive than standard crates.
❌ Not ideal for puppies still in training or teething.
📌 Best for:
🐶 Calm, crate-trained puppies & adults.
🐶 Owners who want a stylish alternative to traditional crates.
Key Takeaway
🐾 Wire crates are best for house training and adjustability.
🐾 Plastic crates provide security and are ideal for travel.
🐾 Soft-sided crates work well for small breeds and portability.
🐾 Heavy-duty crates are best for strong or escape-prone puppies.
🐾 Furniture-style crates combine functionality with aesthetics.
Choosing the right crate ensures your puppy feels comfortable, safe, and happy!
Best Crates for Small Breeds (Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Yorkie, etc.)
Small breed puppies require cozy, secure, and appropriately sized crates to feel comfortable and safe. Since they don’t take up much space, many small breeds enjoy compact, enclosed crates that mimic a den-like atmosphere.
1. Recommended Crate Sizes for Small Breeds
🐾 Best crate size for small breeds:
📏 18″ – 24″ (Length) Crates
- Ideal for dogs weighing under 25 lbs.
- Provides enough space to stand, turn around, and lie down.
- Avoid getting an oversized crate, as small dogs prefer a snug, secure space.
📌 Examples of Small Breeds That Fit This Size:
✔ Chihuahua
✔ Yorkshire Terrier
✔ Pomeranian
✔ Toy Poodle
✔ Shih Tzu
✔ Maltese
2. Best Crate Types for Small Puppies
🐶 Plastic Crates (Best for Security & Travel)
✔ Great for small, nervous puppies who prefer enclosed spaces.
✔ Keeps them warm and cozy.
✔ Easy to transport.
🐶 Soft-Sided Crates (Best for Portability & Comfort)
✔ Lightweight and easy to carry for travel.
✔ Best for crate-trained puppies who don’t chew.
🐶 Wire Crates with Dividers (Best for Adjustability)
✔ Allows airflow and visibility.
✔ Comes with a removable divider to adjust space as needed.
✔ Easy to fold and store.
3. Top Crate Picks for Small Breeds
🔹 MidWest iCrate Double-Door Wire Crate (24″)
✔ Adjustable divider for growing puppies.
✔ Foldable and easy to clean.
🔹 Petmate Sky Kennel (21″) – Best Plastic Crate
✔ Secure, enclosed space for anxious puppies.
✔ Airline-approved for travel.
🔹 EliteField Soft-Sided Crate (20″)
✔ Comfortable, portable, and great for small, well-trained puppies.
✔ Includes soft bedding for extra coziness.
📌 Pro Tip: If your puppy is prone to anxiety, a plastic crate with a covered top may help them feel safer than an open wire crate.
Key Takeaway
🐾 Small breed puppies feel safest in compact, enclosed crates (18″-24″).
🐾 Plastic and soft-sided crates provide security and warmth.
🐾 Wire crates with dividers work well for house training.
🐾 Choose a crate that fits your lifestyle—whether for travel, home use, or crate training.
Best Crates for Medium Breeds (Beagle, Cocker Spaniel, French Bulldog, etc.)
Medium-breed puppies require sturdy, comfortable, and spacious crates that provide room to grow while keeping them secure. Since they are larger than toy breeds but not as big as large breeds, adjustability and durability are key when selecting a crate.
1. Recommended Crate Sizes for Medium Breeds
🐾 Best crate size for medium breeds:
📏 30″ – 36″ (Length) Crates
- Ideal for dogs weighing 25–50 lbs.
- Provides enough space to move comfortably while still feeling cozy.
- Consider a divider panel if your puppy is still growing.
📌 Examples of Medium Breeds That Fit This Size:
✔ Beagle
✔ Cocker Spaniel
✔ French Bulldog
✔ Shetland Sheepdog
✔ Border Collie
✔ Miniature Australian Shepherd
2. Best Crate Types for Medium Puppies
🐶 Wire Crates with Dividers (Best for Growing Puppies)
✔ Adjustable space as the puppy grows.
✔ Foldable for easy storage.
✔ Great ventilation and visibility.
🐶 Plastic Crates (Best for Security & Travel)
✔ Enclosed and cozy—ideal for puppies who like privacy.
✔ Lightweight and travel-friendly.
✔ Helps with separation anxiety.
🐶 Heavy-Duty Crates (Best for Strong, Active Puppies)
✔ Built for dogs who like to chew or escape.
✔ Durable, with reinforced locks and metal construction.
3. Top Crate Picks for Medium Breeds
🔹 MidWest Life Stages Double-Door Wire Crate (36″)
✔ Includes a divider panel for growing puppies.
✔ Foldable, easy to clean, and well-ventilated.
🔹 Petmate Vari Kennel (32″) – Best Plastic Crate
✔ Great for travel or home use.
✔ Secure, enclosed design for anxious puppies.
🔹 Frisco Heavy-Duty Steel Crate (36″)
✔ Built for active puppies that like to chew.
✔ Strong latches and durable construction.
📌 Pro Tip: If your puppy is a chewer, avoid soft-sided crates and go for metal or plastic options instead.
Key Takeaway
🐾 Medium breed puppies do well in 30″-36″ crates, depending on their adult size.
🐾 Wire crates with dividers are ideal for growing breeds.
🐾 Plastic crates offer extra security and privacy for nervous puppies.
🐾 Heavy-duty crates work best for active or strong puppies who like to chew.
Best Crates for Large Breeds (Labrador, Golden Retriever, Boxer, etc.)
Large breed puppies grow quickly and require spacious, durable, and comfortable crates that accommodate their size while providing a secure space. Since these breeds often start small but grow significantly, choosing a crate with an adjustable divider is essential.
1. Recommended Crate Sizes for Large Breeds
🐾 Best crate size for large breeds:
📏 42″ – 48″ (Length) Crates
- Ideal for dogs weighing 50–90 lbs.
- Should be spacious enough for your puppy to stand, turn, and stretch out comfortably.
- Choose a crate with a divider panel to adjust space as they grow.
📌 Examples of Large Breeds That Fit This Size:
✔ Labrador Retriever
✔ Golden Retriever
✔ Boxer
✔ German Shepherd
✔ Standard Poodle
✔ Dalmatian
2. Best Crate Types for Large Puppies
🐶 Wire Crates with Dividers (Best for Growing Puppies)
✔ Adjustable space as the puppy grows.
✔ Good airflow and visibility.
✔ Foldable for easy storage.
🐶 Plastic Crates (Best for Travel and Security)
✔ Great for house-training and travel.
✔ Enclosed design helps anxious puppies feel secure.
✔ Often airline-approved for travel.
🐶 Heavy-Duty Crates (Best for Strong, Active Breeds)
✔ Designed for puppies that like to chew or escape.
✔ Reinforced latches and durable materials.
3. Top Crate Picks for Large Breeds
🔹 MidWest Ultima Pro Wire Crate (42″ – 48″)
✔ Heavy-duty wire for strong puppies.
✔ Divider panel included for adjusting space.
✔ Double doors for easy access.
🔹 Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel (40″) – Best Plastic Crate
✔ Secure, enclosed space for anxious or travel-ready puppies.
✔ Durable plastic construction with proper ventilation.
🔹 ProSelect Empire Heavy-Duty Crate (42″)
✔ Made for strong breeds that need extra durability.
✔ Thick steel tubing with escape-proof latches.
📌 Pro Tip: If you’re raising a high-energy breed like a Labrador or Boxer, a wire crate with a divider panel is best, as it offers both space and ventilation.
Key Takeaway
🐾 Large breed puppies do best in 42″-48″ crates, depending on their adult size.
🐾 Wire crates with dividers allow for growth and easy space adjustment.
🐾 Plastic crates provide a secure, enclosed space for travel and home use.
🐾 Heavy-duty crates are best for strong or escape-prone puppies.
Best Crates for Giant Breeds (Great Dane, Mastiff, St. Bernard, etc.)
Giant breed puppies require extra-large crates that provide ample space for comfort and mobility. Since these breeds grow rapidly, investing in a sturdy, spacious, and long-lasting crate is essential.
1. Recommended Crate Sizes for Giant Breeds
🐾 Best crate size for giant breeds:
📏 48″ – 54″ (Length) Crates
- Ideal for dogs weighing 90+ lbs.
- Should be spacious enough for your puppy to stand, stretch, and lie comfortably.
- Must be extra durable to withstand the strength of large breeds.
📌 Examples of Giant Breeds That Fit This Size:
✔ Great Dane
✔ Mastiff
✔ St. Bernard
✔ Newfoundland
✔ Irish Wolfhound
✔ Bernese Mountain Dog
2. Best Crate Types for Giant Puppies
🐶 Wire Crates with Dividers (Best for Growing Giant Puppies)
✔ Adjustable divider panel allows room to grow.
✔ Maximum airflow and visibility.
✔ Foldable and easy to store.
🐶 Heavy-Duty Crates (Best for Extra-Strong or Escape-Prone Puppies)
✔ Made with reinforced steel bars for durability.
✔ Ideal for breeds prone to chewing or breaking out.
✔ Designed for long-term use.
🐶 Plastic Crates (Best for Travel and Security)
✔ Great for indoor use and travel.
✔ Provides a cozy and enclosed space for anxious puppies.
✔ Durable construction with proper ventilation.
3. Top Crate Picks for Giant Breeds
🔹 MidWest Homes XXL Giant Dog Crate (54″)
✔ One of the largest crates available.
✔ Strong wire construction with plenty of space.
✔ Includes a removable tray for easy cleaning.
🔹 Frisco XX-Large Heavy-Duty Wire Crate (54″)
✔ Sturdy steel frame built for large breeds.
✔ Double-door design for easy access.
✔ Foldable for transport and storage.
🔹 ProSelect Empire Heavy-Duty Crate (48″)
✔ Built for extra-large, strong dogs.
✔ Reinforced steel frame with escape-proof latches.
✔ Ideal for high-energy, powerful breeds.
📌 Pro Tip: For breeds like Great Danes and Mastiffs, opt for a heavy-duty or XXL wire crate to ensure longevity and durability.
Key Takeaway
🐾 Giant breed puppies require 48″-54″ crates for comfort and safety.
🐾 Wire crates with dividers allow them to grow into their space.
🐾 Heavy-duty crates provide durability for strong and active breeds.
🐾 Plastic crates offer a cozy environment for nervous or travel-ready puppies.
Choosing the right crate ensures your giant breed puppy has the space and security they need!
Crate Training Tips for Puppies
Crate training is an essential part of housebreaking, teaching boundaries, and providing a safe space for your puppy. When done correctly, crate training can be stress-free and rewarding for both you and your pup. Here’s how to introduce your puppy to their crate in a positive way.
1. How to Introduce Your Puppy to Their Crate
🐾 Step 1: Choose the Right Location
✔ Place the crate in a quiet but active area of your home (e.g., living room, bedroom).
✔ Avoid isolating your puppy—crates should be a safe space, not punishment.
🐾 Step 2: Make the Crate Comfortable
✔ Add a soft blanket, crate mat, or favorite toy to make it inviting.
✔ Consider a calming scent (like a blanket with your scent) to help your puppy feel at ease.
🐾 Step 3: Let Your Puppy Explore at Their Own Pace
✔ Keep the crate door open and allow your puppy to sniff and investigate.
✔ Never force your puppy inside—use positive reinforcement to encourage them.
🐾 Step 4: Use Treats and Praise
✔ Toss treats inside the crate to encourage your puppy to enter voluntarily.
✔ Use a happy, reassuring voice when introducing the crate.
2. Using Positive Reinforcement to Make the Crate a Happy Place
🐾 Encourage Crate Time with Meals
✔ Feed your puppy inside the crate to create a positive association.
✔ If they’re hesitant, start by placing food near the entrance, then move it inside gradually.
🐾 Use Short Sessions First
✔ Start with 5-10 minutes and gradually increase crate time.
✔ Always reward calm behavior with treats and praise.
🐾 Create a Crate Cue Word
✔ Use phrases like “Go to your crate” before giving a treat.
✔ Repeat consistently to help your puppy learn the command.
📌 Pro Tip: If your puppy whines, don’t let them out immediately—wait for a moment of calmness, then open the door. This prevents reinforcing whining behavior.
3. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Crate Training
🚫 Using the Crate as Punishment
- The crate should be a safe, happy place—never a form of discipline.
🚫 Leaving the Puppy in the Crate for Too Long
- Puppies should not be crated for more than 2–3 hours at a time (except at night).
🚫 Forcing the Puppy Inside
- Forcing your puppy into the crate creates fear and anxiety—always use gentle encouragement.
🚫 Letting the Puppy Out When They Cry
- If you open the crate every time they whine, they’ll learn that whining = freedom.
📌 Pro Tip: If your puppy cries at night, make sure they don’t need a potty break before ignoring them.
Key Takeaway
🐾 Introduce the crate gradually and use treats, toys, and praise to create a positive experience.
🐾 Never use the crate as punishment—it should be a safe space.
🐾 Start with short crate times and build up to longer periods.
🐾 Be patient! Crate training takes time, but consistency will lead to success.
With gentle training and positive reinforcement, your puppy will see their crate as a comfortable and happy place!
Conclusion: The Best Puppy Crates for Every Size and Breed
Choosing the right crate for your puppy is an important step in their training, safety, and comfort. With so many crate options available, selecting the best one depends on your puppy’s size, breed, temperament, and lifestyle needs.
Final Crate Selection Tips
🐾 Choose the right size – Ensure your puppy has enough space to stand, turn, and stretch but not too much that they can use one side as a bathroom.
🐾 Pick the right type – Wire crates are great for house training, plastic crates work well for anxious puppies, and heavy-duty crates are ideal for strong breeds.
🐾 Consider growth – If your puppy will grow significantly, get a crate with a divider so they can use it as they mature.
🐾 Make the crate a happy space – Introduce crate training gradually with treats, toys, and positive reinforcement to create a safe and comfortable environment.
🐾 Be patient – Crate training takes time, but with consistency and a gentle approach, your puppy will learn to love their crate.
Why Investing in the Right Crate Ensures a Happy Puppy
✔ Provides security and comfort, reducing stress and anxiety.
✔ Helps with potty training and prevents destructive behaviors.
✔ Makes traveling safer and easier for both puppy and owner.
✔ Creates a designated space where your puppy can feel at home.
📌 Remember: The crate should be a safe, positive place for your puppy—not a punishment. With the right crate and training, your puppy will feel secure, comfortable, and happy in their new home!
💖 Need More Puppy Training & Care Tips?
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