Choosing the Right Crate Size for Your Dog’s Air Travel: A Guide by Transcon Pet Movers

by | Jun 2024 | Crates and Accessories, Dogs

When it comes to air travel with pets, selecting the right crate size is not just a matter of comfort—it’s essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of your furry friend. Airlines have specific requirements for crate dimensions, and choosing an inappropriate size can lead to a refusal to transport your pet or unnecessary additional fees. For example, a 48-inch crate almost doubles the volume weight of a smaller 40-inch crate, which could potentially double the cost.

Understanding the Basics of Crate Sizing

The most reliable method for choosing the right crate size is based on your pet’s length, height, and width. Other factors like breed or weight are secondary since even dogs of the same breed can vary significantly in size.

Recommended Crate Sizes by Breed

Note: These are general guidelines and may vary depending on your dog’s specific dimensions.

28-inch Crate:

  • Ideal for smaller breeds such as Chihuahuas, Maltese, Shih Tzus, Toy Poodles, Yorkshires, Cavapoos, Pomeranians, Bichons, Papillons, and Cavachons.
  • Also suitable for smaller Mini Poodles, Miniature Schnauzers, and Jack Russells.

32-inch Crate:

  • Suitable for breeds like Shiba Inus, Silky Terriers, French Bulldogs, Cockapoos, Pugs, Springadors, and Puggles.
  • Fits smaller Corgis, Beagles, and Cockers.
  • Fits larger Mini Poodles, Miniature Schnauzers, and Jack Russells.

36-inch Crate:

  • Good for Bulldogs, Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, and Bull Terriers.
  • Suitable for smaller Australian Shepherds, Huskies, Border Collies, Samoyeds, Labradors, Shepherd mixes, Labrador mixes, and Pitbulls.
  • Fits larger Corgis, Beagles, and Cockers.

40-inch Crate:

  • Appropriate for smaller Golden Retrievers, Standard Schnauzers, Standard Poodles, Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, Springerdoodles, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Bernedoodles, and Saint Bernards.
  • Also fits larger Australian Shepherds, Huskies, Border Collies, Samoyeds, Labradors, Shepherds, and Pitbulls.

48-inch Crate:

  • Fits smaller Doberman Pinschers, German Shepherds, Akitas, Rottweilers, Alaskan Malamutes, and Mastiffs.
  • Also suitable for larger Golden Retrievers, Standard Schnauzers, Standard Poodles, Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, Springerdoodles, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and Bernedoodles.

Custom or Larger Crates:

  • Necessary for giant breeds like Great Danes, Saint Bernards, Russian Wolfhounds, and Afghan Hounds.
  • Also needed for larger Doberman Pinschers, German Shepherds, Akitas, Rottweilers, Alaskan Malamutes, and Mastiffs.

Why Choose Transcon Pet Movers?

smiling dog in front airlines

At Transcon Pet Movers, we not only help you determine the most suitable crate size for your pet but also offer a variety of common and uncommon crate options. Beyond the popular Petmate brand crates, we provide specially imported crates that fit between standard sizes to meet specific requirements. For giant pets, we offer custom-made wooden crates. Additionally, we have metal crates designed for aggressive dogs and those used by police and military forces.

For personalized guidance and to explore our range of pet travel solutions, feel free to contact us. Your pet’s comfort and safety are our top priorities, ensuring a stress-free travel experience for both you and your beloved companion.

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