How to Choose the Right Dog Kennel for Your Pet in 2025

When I choose a kennel for your dog, I always look for the right fit. Size matters—my dog needs space to stand, turn, and rest. I also check for comfort, safety, and staff who know how to care for pets. Here’s what I watch for:

• Clean floors and fresh air
• Friendly, trained staff
• Fun activities and safe play areas
• Good reviews from other owners

The right dog kennels keep my dog happy and healthy. I always choose a kennel that matches my dog’s needs and my peace of mind.

Why Dog Kennels Matter

Comfort and Well-Being

When I look for dog kennels, I always think about my dog’s comfort first. I want my dog to feel safe and relaxed, not stressed or anxious. I learned that kennel stress can come from loud noises, being alone, or new places. My dog shows stress by barking more, shaking, or even getting sick. I found out that adding soft bedding, toys, and calming scents like lavender helps my dog settle down. I also play classical music in the kennel for my dog. It makes him sleep better and bark less.

Tip: I noticed that a comfortable crate with enrichment items, like food puzzles or scented toys, keeps my dog busy and happy. Scented toys help him relax, and tactile toys lower his barking. I always choose spacious kennels so my dog can stretch, turn, and lie down easily.

Research backs up what I see at home. Dogs in spacious kennels with regular play, social time, and fun activities show fewer signs of stress. Studies say that kennel design and daily routines matter a lot for a dog’s health. Flooring and parasite control also play a role in keeping my dog healthy.

Common Mistakes

I made mistakes before when picking a kennel for your dog. I once chose a kennel that was too small. My dog could not move around, and he looked sad. I also put the kennel in a noisy spot, which made him anxious. Here are some mistakes I try to avoid now:

• Picking the wrong size: Too small limits movement, too big can confuse house training.
• Placing the kennel in a bad spot: Loud, cold, or lonely places make dogs nervous.
• Forgetting comfort: No bedding or toys leads to boredom and restlessness.
• Using the kennel as punishment: My dog started to fear the kennel.
• Leaving my dog inside too long: He got bored, anxious, and even destructive.

Now, I always choose spacious kennels and make sure my dog feels safe and happy. I learned that a comfortable crate and the right location make a big difference.

Choose the Right Crate Size

Finding the perfect dog crate can feel tricky, but I always start with the basics—measuring my dog. If I choose the right crate size, my dog feels safe and comfortable. I learned that a crate that’s too small makes my dog anxious, while one that’s too big can make house training harder. Let me walk you through how I measure and pick the best fit.

How to Measure

I grab a tape measure and a treat to keep my dog still. Here’s my step-by-step method:

1. I ask my dog to stand up straight.
2. I measure from the tip of his nose to the base of his tail. I don’t include the tail itself.
3. Next, I measure from the floor to the top of his head. If he has perky ears, I measure to the tips.
4. I add about 3 to 4 inches to both measurements. This gives my dog enough space to move, stretch, and wag his tail.

Tip: I always double-check my numbers. A little extra space makes a big difference for comfort.

I use these measurements to compare with the dog crate sizing chart. Here’s a quick look at common crate sizes for different breeds:

I also like to check out visual guides. This chart helps me see which crate fits my dog’s weight:

Clearance and Comfort

I want my dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down without bumping into the sides. I learned that the crate should be at least 3-4 inches taller and longer than my dog. This extra space lets him move naturally and keeps him from feeling cramped.

• The crate length should be my dog’s length plus half the length of his leg.
• The height should let him stand with his ears up, not touching the top.
• The width needs to fit his widest point, doubled for comfort.

If I choose a kennel that’s too tight, my dog gets restless. If it’s too big, he might use one end as a bathroom. I always aim for a snug, den-like feel.

Note: For puppies, I don’t just pick a small crate. I choose a kennel that matches their adult size. I use a divider to make the space smaller at first, then move it as my puppy grows. This way, I don’t have to buy a new crate every few months.

I keep in mind that the right dog kennel size supports my dog’s health and happiness. A good dog crate gives him a cozy spot to relax and keeps him safe when I’m not around.

If you’re ever unsure, I recommend checking a dog crate sizing chart or asking your vet. I always trust my measurements and watch how my dog acts in his crate. If he can stretch, turn, and nap without trouble, I know I chose the right size kennel.

Types of Dog Kennels

Indoor vs Outdoor

When I look for the best dog crate, I always think about where my dog will spend most of his time. Indoor kennels work well for dogs who love being close to family. These common indoor dog kennels give my dog a safe spot to relax, nap, or watch what’s going on. I like that indoor kennels keep my dog away from bad weather and help him feel secure.

Outdoor dog kennels give dogs more space to move and play. My friend uses an outdoor dog kennel for her big retriever, and he loves the fresh air. But outdoor dog kennels can bring risks. Dogs outside face heat, cold, rain, and even wild animals. I also noticed that outdoor dog kennels need more cleaning and cost more to set up. Some people use both indoor and outdoor kennels, so their dogs get the best of both worlds.

Tip: I add toys and comfy bedding to indoor kennels. For outdoor dog kennels, I always check for shade and strong fencing.

Material Options

I see many types of dog crate materials in stores. In 2025, the main types are wood, plastic, and metal. Each type has its own size characteristics of different types of dog kennels. Metal kennels, like welded wire or chain link, last a long time and work well outside. Plastic crates are lighter and great for travel. Wood kennels look nice and blend with my home, but I use them indoors to keep them dry.

Here’s a quick look at the materials:

Pros and Cons

I always weigh the pros and cons before picking a type of dog crate. Here’s what I’ve learned:

Wire crates let my dog see everything and get lots of air. Plastic crates protect him during travel. Soft-sided crates work for small dogs or trips, but they don’t last as long. I always match the dog crate to my dog’s breed, size, and lifestyle. That’s how I find the best fit from all the dog crate sizes and styles out there.

Key Features to Choose the Best Crate

Ventilation

When I look for the best dog crate, I always check the ventilation first. Good airflow keeps my dog healthy and happy. I learned that proper ventilation helps prevent breathing problems by stopping bacteria and mold from building up in the air. Fresh air keeps my dog’s lungs strong and lowers the risk of kennel cough. I also noticed that a well-ventilated dog crate keeps the temperature steady and stops bad smells.

Here’s what I look for in a crate’s ventilation:

• Plenty of open sides or mesh panels for air to move through
• No stuffy or closed-off spaces
• Air filters or UV purifiers for extra clean air

Tip: I once switched to a crate with better airflow, and my dog stopped sneezing so much. Fresh air really makes a difference!

Safety

Safety always comes first when I choose the best crate for my dog. I want to know that my dog is protected, even when I’m not watching. In 2025, some dog crate brands offer voluntary safety certifications, like the Center for Pet Safety (CPS). These crates go through tough tests to make sure they hold up in accidents or rough play. I look for sturdy locks, smooth edges, and strong materials that won’t break or bend.

Here are some safety points I check:

• Secure latches that my dog can’t open
• No sharp corners or loose wires
• CPS certification badge for extra peace of mind

Note: While CPS certification is not required by law, I feel better knowing my dog crate meets these high standards.

Cleaning

A clean dog crate keeps my dog healthy and my home smelling fresh. I always pick a crate that is easy to wipe down and disinfect. I use pet-safe cleaners and make sure the crate has a smooth floor with no cracks where dirt can hide. I also follow a cleaning schedule—daily for quick wipe-downs, weekly for deep cleaning, and monthly for a full scrub.

Here’s my cleaning checklist:

• Use non-toxic, pet-safe cleaning products
• Remove waste and wash bedding every day
• Check for pests and keep the area dry
• Make sure the crate has good airflow to stop odors

Veterinarians say that resin-coated floors work best because they last long and are easy to clean. I avoid crates with lots of grout or rough surfaces because they trap dirt and smell bad.

Callout: Clean crates mean fewer germs, less odor, and a happier dog!

Durability and Maintenance

Sturdy Materials

When I shop for a dog crate, I always check the materials first. I want something that lasts through years of use and keeps my dog safe. Metal crates stand up to chewing and rough play. Plastic crates work well for travel and indoor use. Wood crates look great in my living room, but I keep them away from water. I once bought a flimsy crate, and my dog broke the latch in a week. Now, I look for thick wires, solid panels, and strong locks. I ask myself, “Will this crate survive a jump or a scratch?” If the answer is yes, I know I found a sturdy option.

Here’s a quick checklist I use:

• Check for rust-resistant metal or heavy-duty plastic.
• Test the locks and hinges.
• Look for smooth edges and no sharp corners.
• Make sure the crate feels solid when I shake it.

Tip: I always pick the best dog crate with reinforced corners and a strong base. My dog feels safer, and I worry less about escapes.

Easy Upkeep

Keeping my dog crate clean helps my dog stay healthy and happy. I follow a simple routine every day. I remove waste and wash the bedding. I clean the surfaces with pet-safe detergent and rinse everything well. I dry the crate before I disinfect it. I repeat this process daily. I also inspect the crate for wear and hazards every month. If I see any cracks or loose wires, I fix them right away. Pest control is important, so I check for bugs or rodents regularly.

Here’s a table that shows my maintenance schedule:

I review my cleaning routine every few months. I want to make sure I follow the best practices. If I keep up with these tasks, my dog crate stays fresh and safe all year.

Callout: A clean and sturdy crate means fewer health problems and more peace of mind for me and my dog. 🐾

Style and Placement Tips

Home Décor

I like my dog’s kennel to look good in my home. I don’t want it to stick out or look messy. I found that furniture-style dog kennels work best for me. These kennels look like end tables, TV stands, or even coffee tables. I can pick from rustic wood, modern farmhouse, or bright colors. Some kennels have storage drawers or shelves for toys and treats. I use cushions inside for extra comfort. I place plants or books on top to make the kennel blend in with my living room.

Here’s a table that shows how I match my dog’s kennel with my home décor:

Tip: I always choose a kennel that matches my furniture. I style the top with books or plants so it looks like part of the room.

Safe Locations

I want my dog’s kennel in a safe place. I avoid spots with direct sunlight, drafts, or flooding risk. I look for quiet corners where my dog can relax. I never put the kennel near busy doors or loud TVs. I check that the floor stays dry and the area feels calm. If I use an outdoor kennel, I make sure it sits under a roof or shade. I keep it away from puddles and mud. I add mats or cushions inside so my dog feels cozy.

Here’s my checklist for placing a kennel:

• Find a sheltered spot away from windows and doors
• Make sure the area stays dry and warm
• Avoid noisy places like kitchens or hallways
• Use mats or soft bedding for comfort
• Check for good airflow but no cold drafts

Callout: A well-placed kennel helps my dog feel safe and happy every day. 🐶

Special Considerations When You Choose a Kennel

Puppies

When I choose a kennel for my puppy, I know I need to pay extra attention. Puppies need more care than older dogs. I always look for the best crate for a puppy that feels safe and cozy. Here’s what I do to make sure my puppy feels at home:

• I bring my puppy’s own bed or favorite toy. This helps him feel safe and less scared.
• I check if the puppy kennel has clean, soft bedding and safe play areas.
• I ask the staff about their routines for feeding, playtime, and potty breaks. Puppies need regular exercise and lots of attention.
• I make sure the staff gives me updates about my puppy’s health and mood.
• I look for a place that understands housetraining puppies. The right puppy crate helps with training and keeps accidents to a minimum.

Tip: I always ask if the kennel can handle young puppies who might cry or need extra comfort.

Senior Dogs

My senior dog needs special care when I choose a kennel. Older dogs often need medicine or have health issues. I always talk to the staff about my dog’s needs and make sure they can give medicine on time. Here’s my checklist for senior dogs:

• I check if the kennel allows special food and favorite toys.
• I ask about emergency plans and how they handle sick pets.
• I make sure my dog’s vaccines are up to date.
• I visit the kennel to see if it’s clean and well-kept.
• I like kennels with cameras so I can check on my dog.
• I tell the staff about any health or behavior problems.

Note: Senior dogs feel better in calm, quiet kennels with gentle staff.

Multiple Pets

When I travel with more than one dog, I look for kennels that can keep them together or close by. My dogs feel less stressed when they see each other. I ask if the kennel has space for siblings or friends to share a run. I also check if the staff can handle feeding and walking them at the same time. If my dogs have different needs, I make sure the kennel can give each one the right care.

Callout: A good kennel will listen to my requests and help my pets feel safe and happy, whether I have one dog or a whole pack.

When I pick a kennel for your dog, I always follow a few steps to make sure my pet feels safe and happy. I check that the staff know how to care for dogs, look for clean and secure areas, and ask about playtime and rest zones. Size, comfort, safety, and placement matter most—these help my dog relax and stay healthy. If I run into challenges, I talk with the staff and ask questions. Choosing the right dog kennels means putting my dog’s needs first. 🐾