Choosing a dog crate for an adult or large dog in Australia
Updated 2026-10-16. General information, not veterinary advice.
Ask your vet or a qualified trainer. This guide is general information, not veterinary advice.
This guide is for owners of adult and large dogs, including rescues and dogs outgrowing their first crate. If you are buying for a young puppy, start with best puppy crates, which covers dividers and growth. Here the questions are size, strength, travel and whether a crate suits your dog.
Sizing for a grown dog
- Measure your dog. Standing height and body length, then compare to the maker’s size chart. Sizes are not standard across brands.
- Enough room, not too much. Standing, turning and lying down comfortably is the usual aim.
- Check the weight guide. Manufacturers publish weight ranges. Check the maker’s own figures rather than guessing by breed.
- Adult sizes vary within a breed. Groodles, for example, can differ a lot depending on the parents. See our Groodle hub.
Strength and design
- Latches and welds. Test every latch. A strong dog will test them too.
- Door placement. Two doors give more options for placing the crate in a room or car.
- Base and tray. A removable tray helps with cleaning. Check it will not bend under a heavy dog.
- Folding. Folding crates are easier to store and carry. Check the folded size fits your car.
Travel and heat
- Ask the maker whether the crate is designed for vehicle use and how to secure it.
- Keep crates out of direct sun and never leave a dog in a parked car. See tick, heat and snake safety.
- Ensure airflow on several sides.
When a crate may be the wrong tool
If your dog panics, drools, or injures itself trying to get out, stop and speak to your vet or a qualified trainer. A crate will not fix separation anxiety and may make it worse. Never use a crate as punishment.
Getting an adult dog used to a crate
Go slowly. Feed meals near, then in, the crate with the door open. Build up short closed-door periods. Our crate training guide and settling an adult dog explain the steps.
How we pick
We have not tested these products. Listings are based on public specifications and retailer or manufacturer pages. See our editorial policy and disclosure. Commission, if we ever earn it, does not change what we say.
Related reading: Travelling with a crate? See car travel with your dog and dog beds.
Product types worth comparing
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- Folding wire crate with divider: Common for home use. Check the door latches and tray, and size for your dog's adult measurements.
- Plastic travel crate: Enclosed. Check the maker's guidance for your dog's weight and for car or air travel.
- Heavy-duty or reinforced crate: Some brands make stronger crates for escape-prone dogs. Check the maker's claims. If a dog is trying to escape through panic, ask a vet or trainer about separation anxiety.
- Washable crate mat or bed: Add only if your dog is not chewing it.
Check current price, size guides and availability with Australian pet retailers such as Petbarn, Pet Circle or Petstock.
FAQs
How do I size a crate for an adult dog?
Your dog should be able to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably. Measure your dog and compare to the maker's size chart, since sizing differs between brands.
Is a bigger crate always better?
No. Much more room than needed can be awkward to carry and may be too large for a snug resting space. Choose comfortable, not huge.
Can an adult dog be crate trained?
Many can, with gradual, positive steps. See our crate training guide and the settling an adult dog guide.
Are crates safe in cars?
Ask the crate maker whether the crate is intended for vehicle use and how to secure it. Never leave a dog in a parked car.