product-guide
What Size Crate Does My Dog Need? NZ Crate Sizing & Types Guide
4 June 2026
How to choose the right dog crate size in NZ — measure your dog, pick wire vs plastic vs soft, and size a puppy crate without buying twice.
The quick answer: a dog crate should be just big enough for your dog to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably — no bigger for toilet-training purposes. Measure your dog's length (nose to tail base) and height (floor to top of head or ears), then add about 5–10 cm to each. For a puppy, buy for the adult size and use a divider to shrink the space while they grow.
Quick sizing guide
| Dog size (approx adult weight) | Typical crate length | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Small (up to ~10 kg) | ~60–75 cm | small terriers, Cavalier |
| Medium (~10–25 kg) | ~75–90 cm | Border Collie, Spaniel |
| Large (~25–40 kg) | ~90–110 cm | Labrador, Golden Retriever |
| Giant (~40 kg+) | ~110–125 cm+ | Saint Bernard, Tibetan Mastiff |
Always check the maker's size chart against your dog's measurements — breeds vary, and a "large" differs between brands.
How to measure
- Length: from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail (not the tail tip). Add ~5–10 cm.
- Height: from the floor to the top of the head when sitting (or ear tips for upright-eared breeds). Add ~5–10 cm.
Pick a crate that meets or just exceeds both. Too small is uncomfortable and unfair; too big undermines toilet training because the dog can toilet in one corner and sleep in another.
Puppy crates — buy once, use a divider
Buy the crate for your puppy's estimated adult size and use the included divider panel to keep the usable space small while they're little, expanding it as they grow. This avoids buying two crates. If you're unsure of adult size, check the breed profile or ask your vet/breeder. For setting the crate up positively, see crate training a puppy NZ.
Crate types
| Type | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wire | Home use, airflow, dividers | Folds flat; good ventilation; most have a divider |
| Plastic / airline | Travel, car, calmer den feel | Required style for most NZ domestic flights — check the airline |
| Soft / fabric | Calm, crate-trained small dogs, trips | Not for chewers or escape artists |
| Furniture-style | Living-room aesthetics | Pricier; check sturdiness |
For air travel within NZ, confirm the crate meets your airline's container rules before you fly. For everyday resting, a crate isn't the only option — a dog bed in a quiet spot works for many settled dogs.
NZ context
- A crate should be a safe, positive den — never punishment.
- In NZ summers, place crates out of direct sun and ensure airflow; never leave a dog crated in a hot car.
- For car travel, a secured crate or harness restraint is safer than a loose dog.
Quick takeaways
- Size so the dog can stand, turn and lie down — no bigger for toilet training.
- Measure length + height, add 5–10 cm, check the brand chart.
- Puppies: buy adult-size + use the divider.
- Wire for home, plastic for travel/flights, soft only for calm trained dogs.
- The crate is a den, never a punishment.
Shop related categories at PetMall
Looking for dog crates, beds and travel gear in New Zealand? Browse the PetMall category for current options and nationwide delivery.
Related reading
References
- SPCA New Zealand, crates as a positive safe space, checked 2026-06-04: https://www.spca.nz/advice-and-welfare/
- Companion Animals New Zealand, responsible dog ownership, checked 2026-06-04: https://www.companionanimals.nz/
Important notice
*General information for NZ pet owners. For air travel, confirm crate rules with your airline; for behaviour or health concerns, see a registered NZ vet or force-free trainer.*
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Shop at PetMall
The products below are practical support items for your pet. PetMall ships across New Zealand.
- Dog FoodStart with food that matches your dog's life stage and activity level — and change brands slowly over 7–10 days.
- Dog TreatsTraining rewards and everyday treats — small, soft pieces work best for consistent reinforcement.
- Dog ToysA small rotation of chew, fetch, and puzzle toys usually works better than buying a large variety at once.
- Dog GroomingA gentle brush and the right shampoo make maintenance easier — especially for dogs that get muddy on walks.
- Leads & HarnessesComfort matters: padded contact points and adjustable fit help reduce rubbing on longer walks or tramping weekends.
- Flea & Worm TreatmentFor NZ conditions, look for protection that fits your routine (monthly vs longer-lasting) and your dog's weight range.