---
title: "How to choose a crate that fits a growing dog"
description: "Measure once, buy once. A divider panel means one crate from eight weeks to adulthood."
url: https://evapup.com/journal/sleep/how-to-choose-a-crate
category: "Sleep & Crates"
author: "Olivia Marsh"
published: 2026-08-30
updated: 2026-09-13
---

# How to choose a crate that fits a growing dog

Measure once, buy once. A divider panel means one crate from eight weeks to adulthood.

Most people buy two crates. You can buy one if you size it for the adult dog and use a divider while the puppy grows.

## Sizing

Length from nose to base of tail plus four inches, height from floor to top of head plus four inches. For a breed that will reach 60 to 70 pounds, that is a 36 inch crate.

> **The divider is the whole trick.** Set the divider so the puppy can stand, turn, and lie down but not use one end as a bathroom. Move it back every few weeks.

## Wire, plastic, or fabric

Wire folds flat and takes a divider. Plastic is quieter and darker, which some dogs prefer. Fabric is for trained adult dogs only.

|  | Wire crate | Orthopedic bed |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Folds flat | Yes | No |
| Takes a divider | Yes | Not needed |
| Washable | Tray only | Cover, yes |
| Best for | Puppies and travel | Large adults and seniors |

**Crate length a growing dog needs** (Age in weeks vs Inches)

**Medium breed**: 8: 22, 16: 28, 26: 33, 52: 36
**Large breed**: 8: 24, 16: 32, 26: 38, 52: 42

> Buy the crate for the dog you will have, and divide it for the puppy you have.
>
> Olivia Marsh

### Placement and bedding

Put a washable bed inside, never a bulky one a puppy can chew. Cover the back half with a blanket so it feels like a den.

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