The right size dog crate for a Dachshund is one that allows them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but it shouldn’t be so large that they can use one end as a bathroom and the other as a bed. A general rule of thumb for an adult Dachshund is a crate measuring 24 inches long by 18 inches wide by 18 inches high (24L x 18W x 18H), though this can vary slightly based on the dog’s individual size, especially for larger long-haired or “standard” types versus miniatures.
Choosing the Right Fit: Why Size Matters for Your Dachshund
Putting your Dachshund in the wrong size crate causes problems. A crate that is too small hurts your dog. It can stop their bones from growing right, especially for puppies. A crate that is too big makes potty training hard. Dachshunds are smart, but a large space lets them pick one corner to sleep in and another to soil. This defeats the main purpose of crate training.
We need the appropriate crate size for dachshund to make training easy and keep your dog safe. This guide will help you pick the perfect den for your low-rider.
Measuring Your Dachshund for Crate Selection
Before looking at any Dachshund crate size guide, you must measure your dog. Do not guess! Dachshunds come in standard and miniature sizes, and even within those groups, heights vary.
How to Take Accurate Measurements
Follow these simple steps to get the numbers you need:
- Length: Measure your dog from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail. Add about 2 to 4 inches to this number for extra comfort room. This gives you the needed length.
- Height: Measure your dog from the floor to the top of their head while they are standing normally. Add 2 to 4 inches to this height. This is how tall the crate needs to be.
- Width: For length calculation, you mainly need length and height. Width is usually set by standard crate models. A width around 18 inches usually works well for most standard Dachshunds.
Standard vs. Miniature Dachshund Crate Sizes
Dachshund sizes differ a lot. Always check the dog’s specific weight and height before buying.
| Dachshund Type | Typical Weight Range | Recommended Crate Length (Inches) | Recommended Crate Height (Inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miniature | Up to 11 lbs | 24 inches | 18 inches |
| Standard | 16 to 32 lbs | 30 inches | 21 inches |
If your dog is between sizes, always choose the medium dog crate for dachshund option rather than the smaller one. A little extra room is better than being cramped.
Deciphering Crate Types for Dachshunds
When shopping, you will see many styles. The best crate for dachshund depends on your home, lifestyle, and whether you need a crate for home use or travel.
Wire Crates: Good for Airflow and Visibility
A wire crate for dachshund is a popular choice. They offer great ventilation. This keeps your dog cool. They also allow you to see your dog easily.
Pros of Wire Crates:
- Excellent airflow.
- Easy to clean spills.
- Often foldable for storage.
- Good visibility for your dog.
Cons of Wire Crates:
- Can be noisy if the dog scratches or paces.
- Can cause drafts in cold weather.
- May not offer as much privacy.
When looking at small dog crate dimensions in wire style, make sure the bar spacing is not too wide. Dachshunds are small, and wide bars can pose a safety risk if they try to squeeze through.
Plastic Crrates: Secure and Cozy
Plastic crates, sometimes called travel crates, are very sturdy. They offer more security and block drafts. Many people prefer these for nighttime sleeping or when they need maximum security.
Pros of Plastic Crates:
- Very secure and durable.
- Offer great privacy, which some dogs prefer.
- Easy to block drafts and keep warm.
- Excellent for car travel.
Cons of Plastic Crates:
- Less ventilation compared to wire.
- Can be bulkier to store when not in use.
- Can sometimes feel confining to anxious dogs.
Choosing a plastic dog crate size for dachshund follows the same measurement rules as wire crates. Look for models that have ventilation slots on all sides.
Soft-Sided Crates: Portability Focus
Soft-sided carriers are made of mesh and fabric. They are light and great for travel or temporary setups.
Important Note: Soft crates are generally not recommended for crate training puppies or dogs with separation anxiety. Dachshunds can easily chew through the fabric, which is dangerous if they swallow pieces. Only use these once your dog is fully crate trained and past the chewing stage.
Crate Sizing for Dachshund Puppies
Puppy dachshund crate size requires special attention. Puppies grow fast! You do not want to buy a new crate every month.
The Divider Solution
The secret to buying a puppy dachshund crate size is using a divider panel. Most good-quality wire crate for dachshund models come with a divider or have one sold separately.
- Start Small: Use the divider to make the crate just big enough for the puppy to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. This helps prevent accidents (potty training).
- Adjust as They Grow: Every few weeks, move the divider further down the crate length as your puppy gets bigger.
- Future Proof: Buy the crate size you expect the adult Dachshund to need (likely 24 inches or 30 inches). Then, use the divider to shrink the space temporarily.
This method saves money and keeps the puppy safe and clean during the crucial early training phases.
Special Considerations for Dachshunds
Dachshunds have unique bodies. Their long backs and short legs mean we must think about their comfort in a specific way.
Headroom and Ceiling Height
Dachshunds have long bodies but relatively short legs. When they stand, their head doesn’t reach very high. A height of 18 inches is often plenty. If you buy a crate that is too tall (like one made for a Beagle or Terrier mix), your Dachshund might feel exposed or insecure because the walls are so high above them. Look for crates whose height matches their standing profile well.
Crate Placement and Comfort
The crate should feel like a safe den, not a jail cell.
- Bedding: Use low-profile bedding. Thick, fluffy beds might take up too much space inside the crate, making the usable area too small. A thin, washable mat is often better for maximizing space while ensuring comfort.
- Covering: Many Dachshunds like cozy spaces. Throwing a blanket over the top and sides of a wire crate for dachshund can help them feel secure, mimicking a den environment.
Comparing Crate Materials: Wire vs. Plastic Dachshund
The debate between wire vs plastic crate dachshund owners often have comes down to training goals and lifestyle.
| Feature | Wire Crate | Plastic Crate |
|---|---|---|
| Ventilation | Excellent | Good (sides must have vents) |
| Security/Durability | Moderate (can bend) | High (harder to chew through) |
| Portability | High (folds flat) | Low (bulky when assembled) |
| Cleaning | Easy (waste falls through) | Requires removing trays/wiping down |
| Temperature Control | Poor (drafts) | Better (insulates slightly) |
For new puppy owners focused heavily on house training, a plastic crate might offer better containment initially. For established adults who are fully house-trained and need a sturdy travel solution, a wire crate (or a high-quality airline-approved plastic crate) works well.
Selecting a Crate for Travel
If you travel often with your dog, you need a travel crate for dachshund. Safety in the car is paramount.
Car Safety Guidelines
A secured crate prevents your dog from becoming a projectile in an accident.
- Securing the Crate: Whether you use wire or plastic, the crate must be secured in the car. Use the seatbelts to strap the crate down. Never allow an unrestrained crate in the back seat or trunk area.
- Size for Travel: Even if your dog uses a 30-inch crate at home, a 24-inch crate might fit better in a standard car trunk or backseat area. Always measure your car space before purchasing a travel-specific crate.
For air travel, you must use a hard-sided, airline-approved plastic crate. These crates have specific depth and ventilation requirements that wire crates often do not meet.
Common Sizing Mistakes to Avoid
Getting the size wrong is the most common mistake owners make. Here are ways to ensure you select the perfect fit based on our Dachshund crate size guide.
Mistake 1: Buying for the Puppy’s Current Size
If you buy a crate only big enough for your 10-week-old puppy, they will outgrow it in a month. They will then be forced to move to a much larger space too soon, potentially leading to house-training setbacks. Always plan for the adult size and use a divider.
Mistake 2: Focusing Only on Length
People often measure length and forget height. A crate that is long enough but too short forces the dog to hunch over. This is uncomfortable and bad for their spine. Ensure there are at least 2-3 inches above their head when standing.
Mistake 3: Selecting a Crate That is Too Big
As mentioned, a crate that is excessively large invites accidents. If your dog has a 24-inch body, a 36-inch crate is too much space. It gives them room to separate sleeping from eliminating. Stick close to the measurements derived from the “stand, turn, lie down” rule.
Integrating the Crate into Daily Life
The crate should become a positive space, not a punishment tool. Proper sizing helps build this positive association.
Crate Comfort and Enrichment
To make the best crate for dachshund setup cozy:
- Chews and Toys: Only provide safe, durable chew toys (like KONGs filled with treats) when they are inside the crate. This links crate time with positive rewards.
- Consistency: Keep the crate in a central area, like the living room, when you are home. This keeps them near the family. At night, move it to your bedroom until they are fully reliable sleeping through the night.
Using the Crate for Short Stays vs. Overnights
A plastic dog crate size for dachshund might be better for overnights if your bedroom is cold, as it blocks drafts. For daytime naps, a wire crate might be preferred for better airflow. The key is that whatever material you choose, the internal dimensions must meet the comfort criteria.
Advanced Sizing: The “Long Body” Factor
Dachshunds are long, low dogs. This is where standard “small dog crate dimensions” sometimes fall short if you buy based only on height and weight recommendations for, say, a Jack Russell Terrier of the same weight.
The standard recommendation of a 24L x 18W x 18H is generally safe for most standard Dachshunds up to about 20 lbs. However, if you have a longer, heavier standard Dachshund (closer to 30 lbs), you might need to look at crates closer to 30 inches long.
If you look at typical small dog crate dimensions, you often see 24 inches as the largest “small” size, sometimes bumping into the “medium” category (which usually starts around 30 inches). For a very long Dachshund, the 30-inch crate provides that necessary extra length without being excessively wide or tall.
Final Checks Before Purchase
Before hitting the “buy” button, use this checklist based on our comprehensive Dachshund crate size guide:
- Measure Dog: Do I have my dog’s length and height confirmed?
- Match Measurements: Does the crate length accommodate my dog’s length + 4 inches? Does the height accommodate my dog’s height + 4 inches?
- Puppy Check: If buying for a puppy, does the crate include or allow for a divider?
- Material Choice: Have I decided between the security of plastic versus the ventilation of wire (wire vs plastic crate dachshund comparison)?
- Purpose: Is this mainly for home training, or is it a dedicated travel crate for dachshund?
By focusing on these specific needs—extra length due to their long backs and adjusting for puppy growth—you will successfully choose the perfect sanctuary for your long and low companion. The goal is always comfort, security, and aid in house training.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Dachshund Crate Sizing
What is the ideal crate size for an adult standard Dachshund?
The ideal size for most adult standard Dachshunds is a crate that measures approximately 24 inches long by 18 inches wide by 18 inches high. Larger or longer standards might need a 30-inch long crate.
Can I use a standard small dog crate for my miniature Dachshund?
Yes, miniature Dachshunds often fit perfectly in a 24-inch crate, which is often the largest size designated as “small.” However, always measure your specific miniature dog, as some smaller individuals might be fine in a 20-inch crate, though 24 inches allows for better stretching.
Should I buy a wire or plastic crate for my Dachshund puppy?
Many experts suggest starting with a wire crate for dachshund puppies because they usually come with dividers, allowing you to manage the space as they grow. Plastic crates offer better insulation but less visibility for initial training observation.
Is a 30-inch crate too big for my Dachshund?
If your Dachshund measures significantly shorter than 24 inches in length, a 30-inch crate might be too large initially, encouraging accidents. If you must buy a 30-inch crate for anticipated growth, ensure you utilize the divider aggressively so the space feels cozy and contained for the puppy stage.
How do I know if my crate is too small for my Dachshund?
If your Dachshund cannot stand up without hunching its back or cannot turn around easily without having to squeeze past its bedding, the crate is too small. This is especially important for long dogs to prevent spinal discomfort.
What is the difference between a travel crate and a house crate for this breed?
A house crate (usually wire or heavy plastic) prioritizes ventilation and space for long-term comfort. A travel crate for dachshund must be secured in a vehicle, often requires specific airline safety features (if flying), and might need to be smaller to fit safely within car dimensions.