Choosing the right size dog kennel is essential for your dog's comfort, safety, and well-being. A kennel that is too small can cause stress and physical discomfort, while one that is excessively large may not provide the necessary sense of security or comfort.
The ideal kennel is a comfortable retreat; a space where your dog can stand up, turn around, and lie down fully stretched out. It should feel like a secure den, not a cage.
Most of our kennels are 6ft in height (with smaller 5ft options also available) so offer plenty of space for all breeds. However, you will need to consider things unique to your dog such as their activity level, how many dogs will spend time in the kennel and how much time your dog(s) will spend in there. Simply put, the more dogs and the longer time spent in the kennel, the larger the kennel we would recommend.
How Big Should a Kennel Be?
Dog Kennel Size Guide
When working out how big a dog kennel should be, we recommend following these simple steps;
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Height: Measure your dog from the top of their head to the bottom of their feet and add a few inches to ensure they can stand up comfortably. They should be able to move around and stand with ease to get into their favourite position.
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Length: Measure your dog from the tip of their snout to the end of their tail, and add around 10 inches to this. You want to be sure your dog can stretch, shuffle around and move freely.
If you want a more in-depth guide broken down by dog breed, be sure to check out our extensive Dog Kennel Sizing Guide.
If you are shopping for a puppy, we recommend considering their full adult size when using our dog kennel size guide. Whilst the dog crate or kennel may initially be too big, you can add a divider or extra bedding for comfort and warmth whilst they grow.
Different Styles of Dog Kennels
When it comes to choosing the right dog kennel for your breed or environment, there are two main options available. You should consider your space available, where the kennel will be and your dog's breed and fully grown size.
Thermal Dog Kennels
Our range of thermal dog kennels are ideal for extreme UK weather, offering superior insulation to keep dogs cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Offering a durable and weather-resistant solution, our thermal kennels are great for boarding kennels to give your customers peace of mind during their pets' holiday.
Wooden Dog Kennels
A classic, robust choice, perfect for a secure outdoor retreat, our wooden dog kennels offer a home or boarding solution. Available in a variety of styles and finishes, these make a great addition to a family garden and suit a wide variety of dog breeds.
If you’re still unsure how big your dog kennel should be, please speak to our friendly team who will be happy to help.
Dog Kennel Size FAQ
What size dog kennel do I need for a Labrador?
An average-sized Labrador needs a kennel that is around 135cm x 135cm. You can apply this same rule to similar-sized breeds such as golden retrievers, german shepherds and rottweilers.
Can dogs share a kennel?
Yes, for smaller breeds or dogs that know each other, sometimes sharing can be a great comfort. So long as there is enough space and the dogs are comfortable with each other, we recommend sharing a dog kennel. In this instance, we would recommend a medium-sized 120cm x 120cm kennel.
How do I measure my dog for a kennel?
When trying to work out how big your dog kennel should be, you need to measure your dog. To do this, always measure your dog when they are standing and follow our helpful guide.