The appropriate size crate for mini Dachshunds, standard Dachshunds, and even those bred for utility is generally a crate measuring 24 inches in length. This size allows them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably without being too large, which is crucial for successful potty training.
Deciding on the right dog crate for your beloved Dachshund is vital for their comfort, safety, and good behavior. Dachshunds, often called “wiener dogs,” have long bodies and short legs. This unique shape means we must choose a crate that fits their specific needs. A crate that is too big can lead to house-training accidents. A crate that is too small can cause pain and stress. Let’s explore how to find the perfect fit.
Why Crate Size Matters for Dachshunds
Crates serve several key purposes for your dog. They are a safe den, a training tool, and a way to keep your dog secure when you cannot watch them. Getting the size right helps with all these jobs.
House Training Success
Dogs naturally do not want to soil where they sleep. This instinct is the basis of crate training. For this to work well, the crate must be just big enough for them to rest. If the crate is too large, your Dachshund might use one corner as a bedroom and the other as a bathroom. This defeats the purpose of house training. Knowing how big should a Dachshund crate be directly impacts how fast your puppy learns good habits.
Comfort and Safety
A crate should feel like a safe retreat, not a prison. If a Dachshund feels cramped, they might try to chew or dig their way out. This is dangerous and can damage the crate. They need enough room to stand up tall. They also need space to turn around easily. A comfortable dog is a calm dog.
Travel Needs
If you plan to take your Dachshund on car trips or flights, the crate choice changes. You need a crate that fits securely in your vehicle or meets airline rules. Finding the best travel crate for Dachshund involves looking at different materials and secure locking systems.
Measuring Your Dachshund for Crate Selection
You cannot guess the crate size. You must measure your dog first. This is the first step in determining correct dog crate size for Dachshund. Follow these simple steps using a soft tape measure.
Step 1: Measuring Length
Measure your Dachshund from the tip of their nose all the way to the base of their tail. This gives you the dog’s “body length.”
Step 2: Measuring Height
Measure your dog from the floor up to the top of their head, while they are standing normally. Do not measure them when they are sitting or standing on their hind legs.
Step 3: Adding Buffer Room
To ensure comfort, you must add a few inches to both measurements.
- For Length: Add 4 inches to the body length measurement. This lets them stretch out fully when lying down.
- For Height: Add 2 to 3 inches to the standing height measurement. This allows them to stand without their head touching the top of the crate.
Standard Dachshund Crate Size Recommendations
Dachshunds come in three main types: standard, miniature, and kaninchen (the smallest). The size you need depends on which type you own.
Crate Sizes for Standard Dachshunds
A standard Dachshund usually weighs between 16 and 32 pounds. They are longer than they are tall.
| Measurement | Typical Range (Inches) |
|---|---|
| Length | 18 – 22 inches |
| Height | 11 – 14 inches |
For a standard Dachshund, the recommended crate size is usually a 24-inch crate.
Crate Sizes for Miniature Dachshunds
Miniature Dachshunds weigh 11 pounds or less. They are noticeably smaller than their standard counterparts.
| Measurement | Typical Range (Inches) |
|---|---|
| Length | 14 – 18 inches |
| Height | 10 – 12 inches |
For a appropriate size crate for mini Dachshund, a 20-inch crate is often perfect. Some very small minis might be fine in a 18-inch crate, but 20 inches gives better room for turning.
Crate Sizes for Kaninchen Dachshunds
These are the smallest variety, often weighing under 8 pounds. They need the smallest housing.
For these tiny pups, you should look at small dog crate sizes for Dachshunds, often a 18-inch crate is sufficient, though 20 inches can work if you want extra space for toys.
Comparing Crate Materials and Styles
Once you know the right dimensions, you must choose the type of crate. Your choice affects portability, ventilation, and durability.
Wire Crates: Durability and Airflow
Wire crates are very popular. They offer excellent ventilation and make it easy to see your dog. Many people choose a size wire crate for Dachshund based on the recommended dimensions above.
- Pros: Great airflow, easy to clean, often foldable for storage.
- Cons: Can be noisy if the dog scratches, less den-like feel.
Many wire crates come with divider panels. This is very useful if you buy a crate for a puppy. You can adjust the space as the puppy grows, ensuring the crate remains the right size throughout their development.
Plastic (Airline Style) Crates: Security and Travel
These hard-sided crates offer more security and better weather protection. They are often required for air travel. They look more like a solid box with vents.
- Pros: Very secure, easy to clean, blocks visual stimulation which can calm anxious dogs.
- Cons: Poor ventilation compared to wire, heavier, take up more space when not in use.
These are often the preferred choice for the best travel crate for Dachshund if you fly often. Ensure the door latches are very secure, as Dachshunds can be clever escape artists.
Soft-Sided Crates: Portability and Comfort
Soft crates are made of fabric stretched over a metal frame. They are lightweight and fold down very flat.
- Pros: Extremely portable, quiet, feels cozy like a bed.
- Cons: Not chew-proof; not suitable for dogs that panic or chew intensely.
If you have a well-behaved Dachshund, a soft crate for Dachshunds is great for trips to the park or visiting friends. Always check if your dog is likely to test the fabric integrity!
Folding Crate Dimensions for Dachshunds and Storage
If space is tight in your home, how the crate stores matters. When looking at folding crate dimensions for Dachshund models, check the “folded size” specifications from the manufacturer.
Generally, a 24-inch folding crate will collapse to a flat size perhaps 24 inches long, 4-6 inches high, and 16-18 inches wide. Always confirm these numbers before purchasing if storage space is limited.
Large vs Small Crate for Dachshund: Finding the Sweet Spot
A common mistake new owners make is opting for a crate that is too large. People think a bigger crate means more comfort, but this is not true for training purposes.
The Problem with Oversized Crates
If you buy a crate meant for a large Labrador, even if you use dividers, the sheer space can confuse your Dachshund.
- Potty Training Setbacks: As mentioned, they will likely choose a far corner to relieve themselves.
- Anxiety: A very large, open space can feel exposed rather than den-like. A smaller, cozier den promotes security.
Why Size Must Be Just Right
The crate should allow your dog to:
- Stand up without crouching.
- Turn around fully without hitting walls.
- Lie down completely stretched out.
If the crate meets these three criteria, it is the correct size. Going beyond these basic needs is unnecessary for training and sleeping.
Crate Training: Making the Crate a Positive Space
Getting the right size crate is only half the battle. You must introduce your Dachshund to the crate positively. The crate should never be used for punishment.
Crate Introduction Steps
- Make it inviting: Place soft bedding, safe toys, and high-value treats inside.
- Short durations: Start by closing the door for just a few seconds while you are nearby.
- Feed meals inside: Feed all meals inside the crate with the door open at first. This builds a positive association with food.
- Gradual increase: Slowly increase the time the door stays closed. Never rush this process.
Handling Backs and Spines
Dachshunds are famous for their long backs, which are prone to injury (IVDD). A good crate helps prevent injury, but the bedding inside must also be correct.
- Avoid bulky bedding: Too much soft bedding can cause them to sink in awkwardly, which can strain their long spine.
- Use supportive mats: Opt for orthopedic or firm, supportive mats rather than fluffy pillows. The mat should still be washable and comfortable.
Special Considerations for Dachshund Puppies
If you bring home a Dachshund puppy, you will want to buy a crate that they can grow into—but you must use the divider panel!
A standard 8-week-old Dachshund puppy might only need a 16-inch space, but if you buy a 24-inch crate for their adult size, you must section off the extra space immediately. If you skip the divider, that cute puppy will likely soil the unused area. Check the crate’s height too; the puppy should not be able to easily jump out of the top when they are small.
Travel Crates: Secure Transit for Your Long Dog
When selecting the best travel crate for Dachshund, consider how you travel most often.
Car Travel
For car use, a sturdy plastic crate that straps securely into the back seat or cargo area is best. It prevents the dog from distracting the driver and protects them in case of sudden stops.
Air Travel
If flying, you must comply with IATA (International Air Transport Association) rules, even if your tiny dog rides in the cabin.
- Cabin Crates: Must fit entirely under the seat in front of you. These are usually very small, often soft-sided, measuring around 16″L x 10″W x 9″H.
- Cargo Crates: If the dog is too large for the cabin (most standards will be), they fly in cargo. These must be rigid, leak-proof crates with metal bolts, ventilation on three sides, and the correct Dachshund crate dimensions to allow movement.
Choosing Between Wire and Plastic for Your Dog’s Personality
Your Dachshund’s temperament plays a big role in crate selection, beyond just the size.
| Dog Temperament | Best Crate Type | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Anxious/Nervous | Plastic (Solid sides) | Blocks external sights, promoting a secure den feel. |
| Destructive Chewer | Plastic or Heavy-Duty Wire | Fabric crates are easily destroyed by determined chewers. |
| Easygoing/Calm | Wire or Soft-Sided | Good airflow and visibility are fine for calm dogs. |
| Hot Climates | Wire | Superior airflow helps keep them cool. |
Remember, even with a size wire crate for Dachshund, if they panic, they can injure their nose or legs trying to escape through the gaps.
Final Check: Making Sure the Crate is Perfect
Before you commit to a purchase, review this final checklist. This process covers determining correct dog crate size for Dachshund needs precisely.
- Measure Dog: Nose to tail base, floor to top of head.
- Add Buffer: Add 4 inches to length, 2-3 inches to height.
- Check Type: Select material based on training stage and travel needs (Wire, Plastic, or Soft).
- Puppy Check: If buying for a puppy, ensure you have a divider panel ready for the larger crate.
- Test Fit: If possible, bring your dog to the store (or have them stand by the tape measure at home) and confirm they can stand and turn easily.
By sticking to the recommended 20 to 24-inch length for most Dachshunds, and ensuring the height allows for comfortable standing, you set your dog up for success in their new safe space.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Dachshund Crates
Should I buy a crate that is too large just in case my Dachshund grows more?
No. For potty training, a crate that is too large will cause accidents. If you have a puppy, buy the smallest size that fits them now and use a divider panel to block off the excess space. You can always upgrade later, but training relies on a snug fit.
Can a Dachshund use a very small crate, like the ones made for Chihuahuas?
If you have a miniature or kaninchen Dachshund, a small crate might be appropriate. However, a standard Dachshund often requires at least a 24-inch crate. Measure your dog carefully. Even small dogs need to turn around fully without touching the roof or walls.
What is the standard size recommendation for an adult standard Dachshund?
The standard recommendation for most adult standard Dachshunds is a 24-inch long crate (L x W x H). This size usually offers the necessary space for them to stand up straight and turn around comfortably.
Are soft crates safe for Dachshunds?
Soft crates are safe only if your Dachshund is past the chewing phase and is not highly anxious. Determined chewers can easily destroy the mesh or fabric, posing a swallowing hazard. Always supervise your dog in a soft crate until you are certain they will not chew it.
How do I make sure the crate door is safe on a wire crate?
When looking at a size wire crate for Dachshund, check the latches. Dachshunds are smart. Look for double-latch systems or simple sliding bolts that are hard for paws to manipulate. Avoid simple hook latches if your dog likes to fiddle with things.