Choosing the right dog crate size is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when buying a crate. A crate that is too small can affect your dog’s comfort and welfare, while a crate that is too large may create toilet-training and settling problems.
This dog crate size guide Australia will help you work out what size crate your dog actually needs, without relying only on breed charts or product labels. Your dog’s measurements, age, body shape, travel plans and confidence inside the crate all matter.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to measure your dog, use a dog crate size chart, choose puppy crate sizes, compare travel crate sizes, and understand when your dog may need a larger or smaller crate.
The goal is simple: to help you choose a crate that gives your dog enough room to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably, while still feeling secure enough to settle.
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Dog Crate Size Chart Australia
This dog crate size chart gives you a practical starting point when comparing crate sizes for common breeds in Australia. Use it as a guide only. Your dog’s actual length, height, width, age, body shape and comfort inside the crate matter more than breed alone.
| Breed | Typical Adult Weight | Recommended Home Crate Size | Typical Airline PP Crate Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chihuahua | 1.5–3kg | 18–24 inch | PP10–PP20 |
| Maltese | 3–5kg | 24 inch | PP20 |
| Toy Poodle | 2–4kg | 24 inch | PP20 |
| Cavoodle | 5–12kg | 24–30 inch | PP20–PP30 |
| Miniature Dachshund | 4–6kg | 24–30 inch | PP20–PP30 |
| Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | 6–9kg | 30 inch | PP30–PP40 |
| French Bulldog | 8–13kg | 30 inch | PP40 |
| Staffy | 12–20kg+ | 30–36 inch | PP50 |
| Border Collie | 15–25kg | 36 inch, sometimes 42 inch | PP50–PP60 |
| Kelpie | 13–20kg | 36 inch | PP50–PP60 |
| Australian Cattle Dog | 15–25kg | 36 inch | PP50–PP60 |
| English Springer Spaniel | 18–25kg | 36 inch | PP50–PP60 |
| Labrador Retriever | 25–35kg | 42 inch, sometimes 36 inch | PP60, sometimes PP70 |
| Golden Retriever | 25–34kg | 42 inch, sometimes 48 inch | PP60, sometimes PP70 |
| German Shepherd | 30–40kg+ | 42–48 inch | PP70–PP80 |
| Rottweiler | 35–50kg+ | 48 inch or larger | PP70–PP80 |
| Great Dane | 50–80kg+ | 48–54 inch or giant crate | PP80 or custom oversized crate |
Important: this chart is only a starting point. A compact dog may need less space than expected, while a tall, long-backed or broad-chested dog may need to size up. Always measure your dog before buying.
Looking for a crate rather than just the size?
Standard Dog Crate Sizes Explained
Most dog crates are sold by length, usually in inches. In Australia, you will commonly see crate sizes such as 18 inch, 24 inch, 30 inch, 36 inch, 42 inch and 48 inch, even when the product listing also shows centimetres.
These sizes can be helpful when comparing products, but they are not a perfect rule. Breed charts are only a starting point. Always measure your individual dog before buying a crate.
18-Inch Dog Crates
An 18-inch dog crate is a very small crate size usually suited to tiny puppies, very small toy breeds, or short-term use while a puppy is still young.
This size may suit very small Chihuahuas, tiny toy breed puppies, or teacup-sized dogs, but many dogs outgrow it quickly. For most Australian owners, an 18-inch crate is less common than a 24-inch crate because it can become too small fast.
Best for: tiny toy breeds, very young puppies, and very small dogs that have been measured carefully.
24-Inch Dog Crates
A 24-inch dog crate is commonly used for toy and small dogs. It can suit breeds such as Maltese, Toy Poodles, Chihuahuas, small Cavoodles and Miniature Dachshunds, depending on their individual measurements.
This is often a practical small dog crate size because it gives many little dogs enough room to stand, turn around and lie down without feeling too open or oversized.
Best for: small dogs, toy breeds, small puppies growing into adult size, and compact dogs under roughly 6–7kg if the measurements fit.
30-Inch Dog Crates
A 30-inch dog crate usually suits small to medium dogs that need more space than a 24-inch crate provides. This may include Cavoodles, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, French Bulldogs, Cocker Spaniels and smaller Staffies.
This size can be useful for dogs that are still considered small but are longer, taller, broader, or more solid than toy breeds. It is also a common step up for dogs that look cramped in a 24-inch crate.
Best for: solid small breeds, small-medium dogs, longer-backed dogs, and dogs that need extra turning room.
36-Inch Dog Crates
A 36-inch dog crate is a common medium dog crate size. It often suits breeds such as Border Collies, Kelpies, Australian Cattle Dogs, English Springer Spaniels and medium Staffies.
This size can work well for dogs that need enough room to stretch and settle, especially at home, in a caravan, or during overnight stays. Taller or longer individuals may need to move up to a 42-inch crate.
Best for: medium dogs, working breeds, active dogs, and dogs that need more length and height than a small crate provides.
42-Inch Dog Crates
A 42-inch dog crate is one of the most common large dog crate sizes. It is often recommended for Labradors, Golden Retrievers, larger Border Collies, larger Kelpies and some German Shepherds.
This size is popular because it gives many large dogs enough space to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably without moving straight into a very large 48-inch crate. Some smaller or more compact large dogs may fit a 36-inch crate, while taller or heavier dogs may need a 48-inch crate.
Best for: many adult Golden Retrievers, Labradors and larger medium-to-large dogs.
48-Inch Dog Crates
A 48-inch dog crate is generally used for large and giant dogs. It may suit German Shepherds, Rottweilers, large retrievers, large mixed breeds and some Great Danes, depending on height, length and body shape.
This size has a much bigger footprint, so it is worth checking where the crate will sit before buying. It can be helpful for dogs that need extra room to change position, older dogs that need more comfort, or large dogs that look cramped in a 42-inch crate.
Best for: large dogs, tall dogs, broad dogs, older dogs needing more space, and dogs that do not fit comfortably in a 42-inch crate.
Remember
Crate size charts are useful for narrowing down your options, but your dog’s actual measurements matter most. Always check your dog’s length, height and width before buying, and make sure they can stand, turn around and lie down comfortably inside the crate.
How to Measure Your Dog for a Crate
Measure Dog Length
Measure from the tip of your dog’s nose to the base of their tail. Do not include the full tail length, as this can make the crate measurement look larger than your dog actually needs. This measurement helps you choose a crate long enough for your dog to lie down, stretch comfortably, and turn around without squeezing against the sides.Measure Standing Height
Measure from the floor to the highest point of your dog while they are standing naturally. For many dogs, this will be the top of the head. For dogs with upright ears, include the ear height if the ears would touch the roof of the crate. Your dog should be able to stand without crouching, hunching, or pressing their head or ears into the top of the crate.Measure Width
Measure across the widest part of your dog’s body, usually around the shoulders, chest, or hips. This is especially important for broad-chested dogs, stocky breeds, and dogs that like to sleep on their side. The crate should be wide enough for your dog to turn around comfortably and lie down without being wedged against the sides.Why Measurements Matter More Than Breed
Two dogs of the same breed can need different crate sizes. One Golden Retriever may fit comfortably in a 42-inch crate, while another may need a 48-inch crate. A Cavoodle may suit a 24-inch crate, while a larger Cavoodle may need 30 inches. A Miniature Dachshund may be light enough for a small crate but still need extra length because of their body shape. This is why your dog’s actual measurements should always override a breed chart. The right crate should let your dog stand, turn around, sit and lie down comfortably, while still feeling secure enough to settle.Simple dog crate measuring guide
- Length: nose to base of tail
- Height: floor to top of head or ears
- Width: widest part of shoulders, chest or hips
- Comfort check: dog can stand, turn around and lie down naturally
Measure your dog while they are standing naturally. Use their length, height and width to choose a crate that fits their body, not just their breed.
Want to skip the scroll?
Use our Dog Crate Size by Breed Tool to get a quick crate size recommendation based on your dog’s breed. Remember that individual measurements matter more than breed alone.
Dog Crate Size Calculator
The most accurate way to choose a dog crate size is to measure your dog, then add a small amount of extra room for comfort. Breed charts are helpful, but your dog’s actual length, height and width matter most.
Calculate Your Dog’s Crate Size
Enter your dog’s measurements in centimetres. This calculator adds extra space so your dog can stand, turn around and lie down comfortably.
What Size Crate Does My Puppy Need?
Choosing a puppy crate size can feel tricky because your puppy is still growing. The easiest option is usually to buy a crate that will suit your dog’s expected adult size, then use a divider while they are small.
This gives your puppy enough space to grow without making the crate feel too large during toilet training or early crate routines.
Buy for Adult Size
Instead of buying several crates as your puppy grows, choose a crate based on their likely adult size. Breed charts can help, but they are only a starting point. If your puppy is a mixed breed or expected to grow larger than average, ask your breeder, vet or rescue group for guidance on likely adult size.
For example, a Labrador puppy will quickly outgrow a small crate, so it usually makes more sense to buy a larger adult-sized crate and adjust the usable space while they are young.
Use Crate Dividers
A crate divider lets you reduce the amount of space your puppy can use inside a larger crate. This helps create a snug, secure sleeping area without giving them the entire adult-sized crate too early.
The divider should give your puppy enough room to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably, but not so much room that they can toilet at one end and sleep at the other.
Avoid Oversized Crates
A crate that is too large can make toilet training harder for some puppies. If your puppy has too much space, they may learn to use one section as a toilet area and another section as a bed.
This does not mean your puppy should be cramped. It simply means the crate space should match their current size while still allowing natural movement.
When to Remove the Divider
You can gradually move or remove the divider as your puppy grows. A good time to adjust it is when your puppy starts looking cramped, cannot stretch comfortably, or no longer has enough room to turn around easily.
By the time your puppy reaches their adult size, the divider can usually be removed completely.
MidWest Life Stages Double Door Folding Metal Dog Crate
If you're buying a crate for a growing puppy, this option makes it easier to buy once rather than replacing crates every few months. The included divider panel allows you to adjust the usable space as your puppy grows while still working towards their adult crate setup.
Check current priceWorth knowing: This 22-inch model suits extra-small breeds only, so check the full size range carefully if you're buying for a puppy that will grow into a medium or large adult dog.
Next step
Once you know the right crate size, the next step is helping your dog feel safe and settled inside it. Read How to Crate Train a Dog for Travel in Australia.
Popular Large Breed Crate Sizes
Large breeds often fall between standard crate sizes, which is why measuring your individual dog is so important. Body shape, height, age and sleeping style can all influence whether your dog needs to size up.
The table below provides a practical starting point for some of Australia’s most popular large dog breeds.
| Breed | Typical Adult Weight | Common Crate Size | When to Size Up |
|---|---|---|---|
| Golden Retriever | 25–34kg | 42-inch crate | Choose a 48-inch crate for taller, heavier or older dogs needing extra room. |
| Labrador Retriever | 25–36kg | 42-inch crate | Large males, broad-chested dogs or seniors may be more comfortable in a 48-inch crate. |
| German Shepherd | 30–40kg+ | 42–48-inch crate | Tall dogs with upright ears often benefit from a 48-inch crate. |
| Rottweiler | 35–50kg+ | 48-inch crate | Very large or heavily built dogs may require an oversized or giant crate. |
| Great Dane | 50–80kg+ | 54-inch or giant crate | Many Great Danes require extra-large or custom-sized crates. |
Remember: these recommendations are only a starting point. Always measure your dog’s length, height and width before buying a crate. A dog that is tall, long-backed or broad-chested may need more space than breed charts suggest.
If you’re shopping specifically for bigger breeds, see our guide to Best Dog Crates for Large Dogs in Australia to compare crate options designed for larger dogs.
Signs Your Dog's Crate Is Too Small
Even if you have chosen the recommended crate size for your dog’s breed, it’s important to watch how your dog uses the crate. Every dog is built differently, and a crate that looks suitable on paper may not provide enough room in real life.
If your dog shows any of the following signs, it may be time to reassess their crate size and take fresh measurements.
- Cannot stand comfortably: Your dog should be able to stand naturally without crouching or lowering their head.
- Cannot turn around easily: Dogs should be able to turn around comfortably inside the crate without bumping into the sides.
- Ears or head touch the roof: If your dog’s ears, head or back regularly touch the top of the crate while standing, the crate may be too small.
- Difficulty stretching out: Your dog should be able to lie down and stretch out in a natural sleeping position.
- Avoiding the crate: Reluctance to enter the crate, especially if this behaviour develops suddenly, can sometimes indicate discomfort.
- Signs of stress: Excessive panting, whining, pacing, scratching at the crate, or an inability to settle may suggest your dog is uncomfortable or does not have enough space.
Important
A crate that is too large can also create problems, particularly for puppies during toilet training. The goal is to provide enough room for comfort without creating unnecessary excess space.
If your dog struggles to settle in a correctly sized crate, the issue may be training rather than size.
Help Your Dog Get Used to a Travel Crate Before the Trip
Introduce the crate gradually, build familiarity at home and practise short sessions before you rely on it during travel or overnight stays.
Can a Dog Crate Be Too Big?
Yes, a dog crate can be too big, especially for puppies. While it may seem kinder to give your dog as much room as possible, an oversized crate can sometimes make toilet training harder and reduce the cosy, den-like feeling that helps many dogs settle.
The right crate should give your dog enough space to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably, without creating a large empty area they do not know how to use.
Problems for Puppies
For puppies, a crate that is too large can make toilet training more difficult. If there is too much space, some puppies may sleep at one end and toilet at the other, which can slow down the process of building clean crate habits.
This is why many puppy owners choose an adult-sized crate with a divider. The divider lets you reduce the usable space while your puppy is small, then gradually increase it as they grow.
When Larger Crates Are Helpful
A larger crate can be helpful for some adult dogs, especially if they are already toilet trained and use the crate as a resting space rather than a training tool.
A slightly larger crate may suit dogs that:
- Prefer to sleep fully stretched out.
- Use the crate for longer rest periods at home.
- Are broad-chested, long-backed or between standard crate sizes.
- Need room for bedding, a cooling mat or a familiar travel mat.
- Are confident in the crate and do not become unsettled by extra space.
Older Dogs and Orthopaedic Needs
Older dogs, arthritic dogs and dogs with mobility concerns may need more space than a young, flexible dog of the same breed. They may need extra room to change position, stretch their legs, avoid pressure points and lie in a way that feels comfortable.
If your dog has arthritis, stiffness, hip issues or other orthopaedic needs, prioritise comfort and movement over choosing the smallest possible crate. A larger crate with supportive bedding may be more appropriate, provided your dog can still settle calmly inside it.
Simple rule
Puppies often benefit from a crate divider, while adult and older dogs may benefit from slightly more room. The goal is not the biggest crate possible; it is the crate that fits your dog's body, training stage and comfort needs.
Dog Travel Crate Sizes Explained
Dog travel crate sizes can be different from home crate sizes because the crate needs to suit where and how your dog will use it. A crate that works well in your lounge room may be too bulky for the car, too awkward for a caravan, or completely unsuitable for airline travel.
The right travel crate should still allow your dog to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably, but you also need to think about portability, ventilation, storage space, vehicle fit and travel rules.
Road Trip Crates
For road trips, crate size needs to balance your dog’s comfort with the space available in your vehicle. Your dog should have enough room to settle naturally, but the crate also needs to fit safely in the boot, cargo area or back seat setup.
Before buying a road trip crate, check:
- Your dog’s length, height and width.
- The internal crate dimensions.
- The available space in your vehicle.
- Whether the crate blocks airflow or visibility.
- How easy it is to lift, fold, move or secure.
Caravan and Camping Crates
For caravan and camping travel, many owners prefer soft-sided or fold-flat crates because they are lighter and easier to store between stops. Size still matters, but portability becomes more important than it would be at home.
A caravan or camping crate may need to fit into tighter spaces, such as beside a bed, under an awning, inside a tent, or near your main living area. If your dog is calm and crate trained, a soft crate can work well. If your dog scratches, chews, pushes against the sides or panics when confined, a stronger wire or hard crate may be safer.
Hotel and Accommodation Crates
For hotels, cabins and dog-friendly accommodation, a crate can give your dog a familiar resting space in an unfamiliar room. In this situation, the crate does not only need to fit your dog. It also needs to be practical to carry, set up and pack away.
A slightly larger crate may suit dogs who need to decompress after travel, especially if they are already toilet trained and settle calmly. For puppies or dogs still learning, avoid giving too much space too soon unless you are using a divider.
Airline Travel Crates
Airline travel has its own crate sizing rules. Cabin carriers and cargo crates are not the same thing. Small dogs that qualify for cabin travel usually need a soft-sided carrier that fits under the seat, while medium and large dogs generally need a hard airline cargo crate.
For airline travel, always check:
- The airline’s current crate or carrier requirements.
- Internal and external crate dimensions.
- Dog plus carrier weight limits for cabin travel.
- Ventilation, leak-proof base and secure closure requirements.
- Whether your dog can stand, turn around and lie down comfortably while the crate or carrier is closed.
Travel tip: do not choose a travel crate based only on breed size. Measure your dog, measure the space where the crate will sit, and check whether the crate style suits the type of travel you are planning.
PP40, PP50, PP60 and PP70 Crate Sizes Explained
PP airline crates are commonly used for dogs travelling in cargo or through pet transport providers. You may see them listed as PP20, PP30, PP40, PP50, PP60, PP70 or PP80, depending on the crate size.
These sizes can be helpful when comparing airline dog crates, but they are only a guide. Always check the actual internal and external dimensions of the crate, then confirm the latest requirements with your airline or pet transport provider before booking.
| PP Size | Typical Dogs | Approx Dimensions | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| PP20 | Toy breeds and very small dogs | Approx. 50–55cm long | Small pets needing a compact airline-style crate |
| PP30 | Small dogs such as Maltese, Toy Poodles and smaller Cavoodles | Approx. 60–65cm long | Small dogs that need more room than a tiny carrier provides |
| PP40 | Small to medium dogs | Approx. 70cm long | Compact dogs that need a rigid cargo-style crate |
| PP50 | Medium dogs such as Staffies, Kelpies and smaller Border Collies | Approx. 80cm long | Medium dogs travelling by cargo or pet transport |
| PP60 | Medium to large dogs such as Border Collies, Labradors and Golden Retrievers | Approx. 90cm long | Larger dogs needing more height and length for cargo travel |
| PP70 | Large dogs such as Golden Retrievers, Labradors and some German Shepherds | Approx. 100cm long | Large dogs that need a bigger airline cargo crate |
| PP80 | Extra-large dogs such as German Shepherds, Rottweilers and large mixed breeds | Approx. 110cm+ long | Extra-large dogs or dogs needing specialist pet transport support |
Important: PP crate dimensions can vary between suppliers, even when the size name looks the same. Use this as a comparison guide only, not a booking guarantee. Always check the actual internal and external measurements with your airline or pet transport provider before booking.
Airline fit note
For cargo travel, your dog usually needs enough room to stand naturally, turn around and lie down comfortably inside the crate. Airlines and pet transport companies may also have rules around ventilation, door security, fasteners, bowls and crate construction.
Common Dog Crate Sizing Mistakes
Most dog crate sizing mistakes happen before the crate even arrives. Product labels, breed charts and online recommendations can be helpful, but they should never replace measuring your dog and checking how the crate will actually be used.
Here are the most common mistakes to avoid before buying a dog crate.
- Buying by breed only: breed recommendations are a starting point, not a guarantee. Two dogs of the same breed can have very different height, length and body shape.
- Forgetting dog height: many owners check crate length but forget standing height. Your dog should be able to stand naturally without crouching or pressing their head, ears or back into the roof.
- Buying too small: a crate that is too small can make your dog feel cramped, uncomfortable or reluctant to use it. Your dog should be able to stand, turn around and lie down naturally.
- Buying too large: a crate that is too big can make toilet training harder for puppies and may feel less secure for dogs that settle better in a snug, den-like space.
- Ignoring travel requirements: a crate that works at home may not suit airline travel, car travel, caravanning or hotel stays. Travel crates need to suit the dog, the space and the rules of the journey.
- Not measuring the vehicle: if the crate is for road trips, measure your boot, cargo area or back seat before buying. A correctly sized crate for your dog still needs to fit safely in your car.
Simple rule
Measure your dog first, then measure the space where the crate will go. The right crate needs to fit your dog, your home, your vehicle and your travel plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What size crate does my dog need?
Your dog needs a crate that allows them to stand without crouching, turn around comfortably and lie down naturally. Measure your dog’s length, height and width, then compare those measurements with the crate’s internal dimensions before buying.
Q2: Is it okay if a crate is slightly too big?
For adult dogs, a slightly larger crate can be fine if your dog is toilet trained and settles calmly. For puppies, a crate that is too large can make toilet training harder, so a divider is often helpful.
Q3: What size crate does a Golden Retriever need?
Most adult Golden Retrievers suit a 42-inch crate, but larger, taller or older dogs may be more comfortable in a 48-inch crate. Always measure your individual dog before buying.
Q4: What size crate does a Labrador need?
Most adult Labradors suit a 42-inch crate. A 48-inch crate may be better for larger males, broad-chested Labradors, older dogs or dogs that prefer to stretch out fully.
Q5: Can a crate be too big for a puppy?
Yes. A crate that is too big can allow a puppy to toilet at one end and sleep at the other. Many owners choose an adult-sized crate with a divider so the usable space can grow with the puppy.
Q6: What size travel crate do I need?
Your travel crate needs to fit both your dog and the travel setup. Check your dog’s measurements, the crate’s internal dimensions, and the available space in your car, caravan, accommodation or airline-approved travel setup.
Q7: What size PP crate do I need?
The right PP crate size depends on your dog’s height, length and width, not just their breed or weight. PP40, PP50, PP60 and PP70 sizes vary between suppliers, so always check the actual dimensions and confirm airline or pet transport requirements before booking.
Q8: How much room should a dog have in a crate?
Your dog should have enough room to stand naturally, turn around easily and lie down comfortably. The crate should not be so small that your dog is cramped, or so large that it affects toilet training or makes the crate feel unsettled.
Conclusion
The best dog crate size is not determined by breed alone. The right crate depends on your dog’s measurements, age, travel plans, and how they will actually use the crate.
Before buying, measure your dog carefully and think about whether the crate will be used at home, in the car, in accommodation, or for airline travel. Your dog should be able to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably, without the crate becoming so large that it creates new settling or toilet-training problems.
Next Step: Once you know the right size, the next question is which crate style suits your dog and travel setup best.
Compare the best dog crates in Australia to find a crate that matches your dog’s size, travel style and comfort needs.
Help Your Dog Get Comfortable Before the Trip
Choosing the right crate is only part of the preparation.
The Road-Ready Dog Toolkit includes a step-by-step crate training guide to help your dog become familiar with the setup before travel day.
