When people think about crate size, they usually focus on length and width—but height matters just as much. If your dog can’t stand up comfortably without ducking or if they’re swimming in a crate that towers over them, something’s off.
I’ve worked with hundreds of dog parents who were surprised to find their pup’s discomfort traced back to crate height. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to measure your dog, choose the right height from our Impact Dog Crates lineup, and even adjust for growing puppies or particularly tall breeds.
Why Crate Height Matters
Crate height affects everything from your dog’s posture to their stress levels. If the crate is too short, your dog may crouch or tuck themselves unnaturally, which can lead to anxiety, muscle strain, or refusal to enter the crate altogether. On the other hand, too much vertical space makes the crate feel oversized and less secure—especially for small breeds who thrive in cozy environments.
Crates should feel like dens: snug, safe, and secure. Getting the height right supports that instinct and helps your dog feel comfortable and confident.
Measuring Your Dog for Height
You don’t need special equipment to get your dog’s crate height right—just a few household tools and a calm dog (or some tasty treats to keep them still). Height is measured from the ground to the tallest natural point when your dog is standing. For most dogs, that’s the top of the head or ears (especially if your pup has upright ears).
Here’s what you’ll need:
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Tape measure or ruler
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Notepad or phone to record the number
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A helper to steady your dog (especially helpful for wiggly pups)
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A treat or two for cooperation
Steps:
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Have your dog stand on all fours on a flat surface.
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Find the highest point—usually the top of the head or ears.
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Measure from the ground to that point.
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Add 2–4 inches of clearance, depending on breed and coat.
This added clearance gives your dog headroom to stand, stretch, and turn comfortably.
Choosing the Right Impact Crate Height
Once you’ve measured your dog, it’s time to find the perfect match in our crate lineup. We offer a range of crate heights across different models, from compact travel sizes to extra-tall builds for large breeds. Here’s a quick breakdown:
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20" height – Ideal for small dogs like Chihuahuas or Yorkies
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24" height – Great for Jack Russells, Mini Schnauzers, and similar
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30" height – Suited for Beagles, French Bulldogs, and small-medium mixes
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36" height – Perfect for Border Collies, Bulldogs, or Aussies
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42" height – Designed for Labs, Boxers, and Goldens
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48" height – Best for tall breeds like Great Danes, Dobermans, or Mastiffs
Check out our Collapsible Dog Crate or Stationary Dog Crate to match your measurement to the best-fitting model.
Adjusting for Growing Puppies & Tiny Breeds
If you’ve got a puppy or a very small dog, you’ll want the crate to grow or shrink with them. We’ve designed a few easy add-ons to help you customize the internal height or layout without needing a whole new crate.
Some accessories I often recommend:
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Impact Puppy Divider – Temporarily shortens the interior space to match your pup’s current size
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Vinyl Pad Risers – Raise the floor level for smaller breeds who need a more enclosed feel
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Custom platform – Add a platform base for extra height adjustment or separation from crate floor
These simple modifications keep your dog comfortable as they grow or age, and they prevent you from having to upsize too early.
Tips for XXL Breeds & Long-Legged Dogs
Tall dogs need a little extra attention. Long legs, big heads, and expressive ears all need room to move naturally. I always recommend starting with our larger crate options, like the High Anxiety XL, which offers extra interior space without sacrificing durability or containment.
For even more vertical room, consider:
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Stationary Side Door Add-On – This optional upgrade gives your dog more head clearance while maintaining side access.
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Custom foam pads – These can be added for orthopedic support without significantly raising your dog’s head too close to the crate’s top.
With the right height, tall breeds won’t feel cramped—and that goes a long way in preventing pacing or resistance during crate time.
Real-World Fit & Comfort
I once measured a Great Dane in under a minute—he walked right up, stood tall, and gave me the perfect height reference with those proud ears of his. His owner had been struggling with a wire crate that forced the dog to crouch every time he entered. After switching to one of our tall Stationary crates, the difference was night and day: the dog voluntarily entered his crate, stretched out, and even napped inside during the day.
That’s the power of a good fit. When dogs don’t have to adjust their natural posture, they relax more easily and see the crate as a safe haven, not a restriction.
Conclusion: Height Isn’t Just a Number
Finding the right crate height may not be the first thing that comes to mind—but it might just be the most important. A properly sized crate supports better posture, reduces anxiety, and improves your dog’s overall comfort, whether they’re at home or on the road.
Measure today and explore our full line of height-perfect crates—because when the fit is right, everything else falls into place.
