Pet Travel Crate Size Calculator
Two measurements give the minimum crate dimensions and the nearest standard size to buy.
Minimum crate size
75 × 60 cm
29.5″ long × 23.6″ tall
- Nearest standard crate
- L (91 cm / 36")
- Internal dimensions
- 91 × 58 × 64 cm
If you are between sizes, go up. Brands vary, so always check the internal measurements.
How to measure your pet
Two measurements are all you need. For length, measure from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail while your pet is standing – not to the end of the tail, or you will end up with an unnecessarily huge crate. For height, measure from the floor to the top of the head while your pet is sitting, because most dogs are taller sitting than standing. Add about 15 cm to the length and 10 cm to the height, so they can stand up, turn round and stretch out comfortably.
Standard UK crate sizes
Crates are usually sold by the length of the base in inches: 18, 24, 30, 36, 42 and 48. Heights and widths vary a little between brands, so always check the internal dimensions rather than the label. The size this calculator suggests is the smallest standard crate that meets your pet's minimum – if you are between sizes, go up.
Puppies: use a divider, not a small crate
Buy the crate your puppy will need as an adult and fit the wire divider that comes with it. A puppy given the whole of a large crate will happily sleep at one end and toilet at the other, which undoes toilet training. Move the divider back every couple of weeks as they grow. If you are not sure how big they will get, our puppy weight calculator gives an adult estimate from their breed and current weight.
Flying with your pet
Airlines follow IATA live animal regulations, which are stricter than home use: your pet must be able to stand fully upright without their ears touching the roof, turn round easily and lie down naturally. Containers need ventilation on at least three sides, a leak-proof floor, secure fastenings that are not padlocked shut, and live animal labels. Requirements differ by airline and route, so confirm in writing well before you book, and get your pet used to the travel crate for weeks beforehand rather than days.
Using a crate kindly
A crate should be a den your pet chooses, never a punishment. Leave the door open at home, feed meals inside, put comfortable bedding in and throw treats in without ceremony. Build up the time gradually, and cover part of the top for a cosier feel. Adult dogs should not be shut in for more than three to four hours at a stretch during the day, and puppies need far shorter spells with frequent toilet breaks. A dog who whines, pants, drools or tries to escape the crate is distressed, not being difficult – stop and get help from a qualified behaviourist.
Cats and small pets
For cats, a carrier that opens from the top as well as the front makes vet visits far less stressful, and they should be able to stand, turn and stretch out fully. For car travel, secure the carrier with a seatbelt in the footwell or on the back seat, and cover it with a light towel to reduce visual stress.
Frequently asked questions
What size crate does my dog need?
Add about 15 cm to your dog's length from nose to base of tail, and about 10 cm to their height when sitting. Then choose the nearest standard crate that is at least that big.
How do I measure my dog?
Length: nose to the base of the tail while standing. Height: floor to the top of the head while sitting, since sitting is usually taller than standing.
Is a bigger crate always better?
Not for toilet training a puppy – too much space lets them sleep at one end and toilet at the other. Use a divider in a full-size crate and move it as they grow.
What size crate do I need for air travel?
Airlines follow IATA rules: your pet must be able to stand fully upright, turn round and lie down naturally. Check with the airline well before travel, as their requirements are stricter than a home crate.
How long can a dog be crated?
Crates are for sleeping and short settled periods, not all-day confinement. Adult dogs should not be crated more than three to four hours at a stretch in the day, and puppies far less.
Can I use a crate for a cat?
For transport and recovery, yes. Cats need enough room to stand, turn and stretch out, and a carrier that opens from the top makes getting them in and out far less stressful.
How do I make a crate somewhere my pet likes?
Leave the door open, feed meals inside, add comfortable bedding and never use it as a punishment. Build up time gradually and cover part of it for a den-like feel.
Estimates only – not a substitute for advice from your vet.
Last reviewed: 22 September 2026