What size dog crate for a Goldendoodle depends on the size variation of your dog (Standard, Miniature, or Giant) and whether you are buying for a puppy or an adult. Generally, a Standard Goldendoodle needs a large dog crate dimensions for Goldendoodle, often 42 inches long. Miniature Goldendoodles typically fit well in medium crates (24-30 inches), while Giant Goldendoodles require extra-large or even XXL crates (48 inches or more). Choosing the correct Goldendoodle crate size is vital for successful Goldendoodle crate training size.
Why the Right Crate Size Matters for Your Goldendoodle
Getting the right crate size for your Goldendoodle is very important. A crate is not a cage. It is a safe den for your dog. When sized correctly, the crate helps with potty training and keeps your dog safe when you are busy. If the crate is too big, your dog might use one end as a bathroom and the other as a bed. This ruins potty training efforts. If the crate is too small, it causes stress and discomfort. This guide will help you pick the perfect size crate for your furry friend. This Goldendoodle crate size guide breaks down what you need at every stage.
Deciphering Goldendoodle Sizes: Which One Do You Have?
Goldendoodles come in three main size groups. The size of the parent dogs (Golden Retriever and Poodle) decides the size of your doodle. You must know which size you have before selecting a crate.
Standard Goldendoodles
Standard Goldendoodles are the largest. They come from a Standard Poodle and a Golden Retriever. They are wonderful family dogs. They are generally active and smart.
- Weight: 50 to 90 pounds.
- Height (at the shoulder): 22 to 26 inches.
- Crate Need: These dogs need a large dog crate dimensions for Goldendoodle.
Miniature Goldendoodles
Miniature Goldendoodles result from crossing a Golden Retriever with a Miniature Poodle. They are smaller and often suit apartment living better.
- Weight: 15 to 35 pounds.
- Height (at the shoulder): 14 to 17 inches.
- Crate Need: These dogs need a medium crate. This covers the miniature Goldendoodle crate size.
Giant Goldendoodles
Giant Goldendoodles are often crosses involving a Standard Poodle, but they can also come from a breeder aiming for a very large dog. They are truly big dogs.
- Weight: Over 90 pounds, sometimes reaching 110 pounds or more.
- Height (at the shoulder): Over 26 inches.
- Crate Need: These gentle giants need an extra-large or even custom crate. This addresses the giant Goldendoodle crate size.
Determining the Correct Goldendoodle Crate Size
How do you measure your dog to ensure the crate fits? It is simple. Measure your dog when they stand up fully. You need two main measurements: height and length.
Measuring Height
Have your Goldendoodle stand tall and straight. Use a ruler or a sturdy stick held straight up over their head. Measure from the floor to the very top of their head or the highest point of their ears, whichever is taller. Add 2 to 4 inches to this measurement. This gives you the minimum required crate height.
Measuring Length
Ask your dog to lie down in a natural resting position (stretched out, not curled up). Measure from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail. Add 4 to 6 inches to this length. This gives you the minimum required crate length.
Choosing Correct Goldendoodle Crate Size Based on Measurements
Once you have your final length and height requirements, look at crate size charts. Always choose the next size up if your measurements fall between two standard crate sizes. It is better to have a slightly bigger space than one that feels cramped.
| Goldendoodle Size | Typical Adult Weight Range | Recommended Crate Length (Inches) | Common Crate Size Label |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miniature | 15 – 35 lbs | 24″ to 30″ | Medium |
| Standard | 50 – 90 lbs | 36″ to 42″ | Large |
| Giant | 90+ lbs | 48″ to 54″+ | Extra Large (XL/XXL) |
This table offers a quick look at the adult Goldendoodle crate dimensions you will need.
The Goldendoodle Crate Size Guide: Puppy vs. Adult
Puppies grow fast. Buying a crate that fits their adult size right away is a common mistake that hurts Goldendoodle crate training size.
The Best Crate Size For Goldendoodle Puppy
When you bring home a Goldendoodle puppy, their den should be just big enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Why? Because puppies tend to soil the corners of large spaces. A den that is too big invites accidents.
If you buy an extra-large crate for your Standard Goldendoodle puppy now, you must use a divider panel.
Using Divider Panels
Most high-quality metal crates come with a divider. This sliding panel lets you adjust the interior space as your puppy grows.
- Initial Setup: Set the divider so the crate is only slightly larger than the puppy’s current size. This encourages them to keep the space clean.
- Growth Adjustment: Move the divider back every few weeks as your puppy gains size. This allows them room to stretch without giving them too much space too soon.
This method saves money because you buy one durable crate that lasts their entire life. This is crucial when figuring out the best crate size for Goldendoodle puppy.
Transitioning to Adult Crate Dimensions
Once your Goldendoodle is fully grown, you will remove the divider panel entirely. The crate should now meet the established adult Goldendoodle crate dimensions listed above. For a Standard Goldendoodle, this usually means a 42-inch crate is the sweet spot.
Specific Size Considerations for Each Doodle Type
Let’s look closer at the needs for each size category to ensure you select the right fit.
What Size Crate for Standard Goldendoodle?
The Standard Goldendoodle is the most common type. Most owners will need a 36-inch or 42-inch crate.
- A 36-inch crate might work for a smaller female Standard Doodle (under 65 lbs).
- A 42-inch crate is the safest bet for most Standards, ensuring they have room to stretch out comfortably without being too vast for a puppy using a divider.
If you are buying for a larger Standard (closer to 90 lbs), you might want to consider a 48-inch crate immediately, even if you use a divider initially.
Miniature Goldendoodle Crate Size
Miniature Goldendoodles are much easier to size. They often fit standard medium sizes used for smaller breeds.
- Length: Look for 24-inch to 30-inch crates.
- A 28-inch crate often serves as a perfect final size for this variation. They rarely need heavy-duty dividers since their growth is slower and less dramatic than Standards.
Giant Goldendoodle Crate Size
Giant Goldendoodles push the limits of standard retail crate sizes. You must measure carefully here.
- Length: Expect to need 48 inches minimum. Many of the largest individuals will require a 54-inch or even a 60-inch crate.
- Features: Look for heavy-duty wire crates. These dogs are often stronger, and lighter crates can be damaged. Double-check the height measurement to ensure they can stand without crouching.
Types of Crates and Their Sizing Impact
The material and style of the crate can slightly affect how you interpret the required dimensions.
Wire Crates
Wire crates are popular because they are sturdy, offer great ventilation, and usually come with adjustable dividers. They are the standard choice for Goldendoodle crate training size. Their listed dimensions are generally accurate for interior space.
Plastic/Composite Crates (Travel Crates)
Plastic crates are excellent for travel. They are very durable and secure. However, they often have thicker walls than wire crates.
When buying a travel crate size for Goldendoodle, remember that the exterior dimensions might be slightly larger than the interior sleeping space. Always check the interior measurements if possible, or size up slightly compared to a wire crate recommendation. Make sure the crate meets airline requirements if you plan air travel.
Soft-Sided Crates
Soft crates are lightweight and great for temporary use or older dogs. However, they are not ideal for training puppies prone to chewing. If you use one, ensure it is sized so the dog cannot easily reach all four walls simultaneously if they stand or stretch.
Crate Sizing for Travel vs. Home Use
The purpose of the crate influences the required size.
Crate Sizing for Home Comfort
The home crate should allow your Goldendoodle to stretch out fully. Comfort is key for their den time. This is where the primary measurement guidelines apply—maximum stretch, stand, and turn.
Travel Crate Size for Goldendoodle
If you frequently travel by car, the crate needs to fit safely in your vehicle. For car travel, safety is paramount. The crate should fit securely in the trunk or back seat area without sliding.
For car travel, sometimes a snugger fit (within the acceptable minimums) is safer because it limits movement during sudden stops. However, if the trip is long, they still need enough room to shift position.
For air travel, the crate must meet IATA (International Air Transport Association) standards. This means the dog must be able to stand up without their head touching the top and turn around easily. Often, this means the travel crate must be slightly larger than the minimum comfort size. Always confirm specific airline rules before booking a flight.
Troubleshooting Common Crate Sizing Errors
What happens if you got the size wrong? Here is how to fix it.
My Crate is Too Big
If you bought the large dog crate dimensions for Goldendoodle too early, or if your puppy is small, the crate is too big.
Solution: Use a sturdy divider panel immediately. If you don’t have one, use large, safe objects like sturdy cardboard boxes or stacks of heavy books placed outside the crate wall to temporarily reduce the space. Never use soft bedding that the dog can burrow into and soil.
My Crate is Too Small
If your Goldendoodle seems cramped, restless, or tries to squeeze into uncomfortable positions, the crate is too small.
Solution: This is an urgent fix, especially for growing puppies. Upgrade immediately. If you have a wire crate, try removing the divider panel if one was in place. If it’s a plastic crate, you must buy a larger one. A cramped crate causes anxiety, which defeats the purpose of crate training.
Finalizing Your Purchase: Tips for Success
When purchasing based on this Goldendoodle crate size guide, keep these final tips in mind:
- Durability: Goldendoodles, especially as puppies, can be strong chewers or leaners. Choose a crate with thick wire gauge (for metal crates) or sturdy plastic.
- Door Placement: Think about where the crate will sit in your house. Does the door swing easily without hitting furniture?
- Material for Training: For initial potty training, stick to wire or hard plastic. Avoid soft crates until training is complete.
- Future Proofing: If you are on the fence between two sizes for a puppy, always buy the larger size, provided you have a good divider panel. It is cheaper to buy one large crate than two small ones.
This detailed review of choosing correct Goldendoodle crate size ensures your companion has a safe, secure space that aids in their development and your peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Goldendoodle Crate Sizing
How big of a crate does a Standard Goldendoodle need when fully grown?
A fully grown Standard Goldendoodle, typically weighing 50 to 90 pounds, usually needs a crate that is 42 inches long. Some larger ones may need 48 inches. Always measure your dog’s length while lying down and add 4 to 6 inches.
Can I use the same crate size for my Goldendoodle puppy and my adult dog?
Yes, but only if you buy the size meant for the adult dog and use a divider panel. This allows you to shrink the space for the puppy to prevent accidents, then expand it as they grow. This is the most cost-effective approach for the Goldendoodle crate training size.
What is the recommended crate size for a 30-pound Miniature Goldendoodle?
A 30-pound Miniature Goldendoodle generally requires a medium-sized crate, usually 28 to 30 inches in length. They will need less space than their Standard counterparts.
Do I need a different crate size for car travel versus home use?
For car travel, you might choose a crate that is slightly snugger (but still comfortable for stretching and turning) if space is tight, prioritizing vehicle safety and stability. For home use, you want maximum comfort so they can fully relax. For air travel, the crate must meet specific height and depth requirements to allow them to stand tall.
My Standard Goldendoodle puppy is 4 months old and already fits a 36-inch crate comfortably when lying down. Should I move up the divider?
Since he fits comfortably in a 36-inch crate when lying down, you can likely move the divider back to allow more room for standing and turning, provided he is not yet prone to soiling the extra space. Continue to monitor his potty habits. Always ensure the crate fits the adult Goldendoodle crate dimensions you will eventually need.