Dog Crates & Kennels
Dog crates and kennels can be used to safely contain your pup when needed. A dog crate provides a great place for your furry friend to den and rest, and when used with positive reinforcement, it can be an excellent training tool for puppies. Crates can also be used for the safe transport of pets, making them an essential accessory for car or air travel. Crates come in a variety of designs and materials to suit different uses. Choose from:
- Wire crates, ideal for crate training and collapsible for portability
- Furniture-style crates that blend nicely into your home décor
- Soft-sided crates for travel
- Hard-sided travel crates, which provide added protection
- Outdoor dog kennels, made to give your dog a safe space to relax and play outside
While dogs can benefit from having a crate or kennel as a safe space to call their own, it's important not to leave your dog crated for too long. Ensure you get the right size crate—you don't want one too big or too small—by measuring your dog's length and height, then add 3-5 inches to each to get the right dimensions. For puppies, get a crate that will fit your dog's full-grown size and use a crate divider to adjust the interior as he grows. More room is usually recommended for comfort in outdoor kennels—talk to your veterinarian or trainer for expert guidance on sizing.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dog Crates & Kennels
What size crate or kennel should I get?
Get a crate or kennel that’s big enough to allow your dog to stand up and turn around inside it. A good rule of thumb is to measure the dog's length from nose to tail and his height from paws to torso, and then add 3-5 inches to get the ideal crate height and length dimensions. All the crates and kennels on Chewy.com have sizing charts to help you pick the perfect one.
Where should I put my dog crate?
Put your dog crate near where you and other family members will be while the dog is crated. Since many dogs sleep in their crates at night, the bedroom is a popular location for a crate. You can move the crate to a living room or family room area during the day, too.
What should I put in my dog's crate or kennel?
Put a dog mat, crate liner or blanket in your dog’s crate or kennel to make it feel cozier, or choose one of the cushion-style dog beds that fit in crates for even more comfort and warmth. Putting a few dog toys in the crate or kennel can help your pup feel more at ease, too.