Why sizing matters
A crate that's too small is uncomfortable and can be refused by an airline, too large and it isn't secure enough for travel. Getting the measurements right is one of the simplest ways to make the actual journey easier on your dog.
How to measure your dog
With your dog standing naturally (not sitting or lying down), four measurements matter:
- Length: from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail (not including the tail itself).
- Standing height: from the floor to the top of the head, including the ears if they naturally stand up.
- Leg height: from the floor to the top of the shoulder (withers) — a separate reference point some providers ask for alongside standing height.
- Width: across the shoulders at their widest point.
Add a small margin to each so your dog can stand, turn around and lie down comfortably inside the finished crate.
Measurement diagram
Illustrative only — proportions aren't to scale for any specific breed.
Worked example
Fictional example, for illustration only — not a recommendation for any real dog or crate.
A fictional medium-sized dog measures: length 70 cm, standing height 55 cm, leg height 45 cm, width 30 cm. Adding a comfortable margin to each figure, a starting point for crate shopping might be roughly 78–80 cm long, 60–63 cm high and 35–38 cm wide — but the airline or provider's own required method and minimum dimensions always take priority over this kind of estimate.
Choosing crate dimensions
Your provider or airline should confirm the required measuring method and crate dimensions. A crate must allow the pet to stand, turn and lie comfortably, but construction, ventilation and airline-specific requirements also apply, and exact numeric requirements vary by airline and provider.
Common measurement mistakes
- Measuring while the dog is sitting, lying down, or not standing naturally.
- Forgetting to include the ears in standing height for breeds with upright ears.
- Measuring length including the tail, which overstates the figure.
- Using an old measurement for a young or still-growing dog.
- Adding so much margin that the crate is no longer secure for travel.
Why buying a crate too early can cause problems
A dog's measurements can change, especially a young or still-growing dog, and requirements can differ between airlines and providers. Buying a specific crate before your route, airline and provider are confirmed risks buying the wrong size, or one that doesn't meet that specific carrier's construction rules. Measuring early is useful; buying early is often not.
Questions to ask an airline or provider
- What is the exact required measuring method, and do you accept these measurements?
- What are the minimum internal dimensions you require?
- What crate construction, material and ventilation do you require?
- Do you require a specific crate brand, certification or labelling?
- By what date do you need the final crate confirmed?
Confirming with your provider
A crate is not automatically airline-approved just because its dimensions seem to fit. Construction, ventilation and labelling requirements matter too. Always confirm the specific crate against your airline or relocation provider's current requirements before you buy or travel. This guide is a starting point for measuring, not a substitute for that confirmation.
Printable measurement worksheet
Fill this in, then print or save it to share with your provider or airline.