If you have a 50 lb dog, you might be wondering what size crate you should get for them.
Choosing the right crate size is not as simple as picking the biggest or the smallest one. Dive into our comprehensive guide on crate sizing, materials, and tips.
Ensure a cozy, secure spot for your canine companion, striking the balance between space and safety. Your dog’s next favorite spot awaits.
What Size Crate For 50 Lb Dog?
For a 50 lb dog, an ideal crate size is typically around 36 inches in length, offering ample space for most dogs of this weight class to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably. Border Collies and Cocker Spaniels usually prefer this size, ensuring their safety and comfort.
50 LB Dog Crates Size Chart
Size Range | Crate Size | Recommended Product |
---|---|---|
Minimum size | 30″x24″ or 30″x30″ or 30″x36″ | MidWest Homes Double Door Life Stages Dog Crate |
Medium/Perfect size | 36″x24″ | New World Pet Products Folding Metal Dog Crate |
Maximum size | 36″x30″ or 36″x36″ | BestPet Dog Crate Cage for 50 lb Dogs |
Different Types of Crates Suitable for a 50 Lb Dog
Here are some of the most common types of crates suitable for a 50 lb dog:
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Wire Crates
Wire crates are made of metal bars that form a cage-like structure. They are sturdy, durable, and easy to clean.
They also provide good ventilation and visibility for your dog. You can fold them flat for storage or transport. Wire crates are usually cheaper than other types of crates.
Some dogs may not like the open and exposed feeling of wire crates. They may also be noisy when your dog moves around or chews on the bars.
You can add a crate cover or a blanket to make wire crates more cozy and quiet.
Plastic Crates
Plastic crates are made of hard plastic with a metal door. They are lightweight, portable, and easy to clean.
They also provide more privacy and security for your dog than wire crates. Plastic crates are often used for air travel or car trips.
Some dogs may feel too confined or hot in plastic crates. They may also be harder to fold or store than wire crates.
You should check the ventilation holes and the door latch regularly to make sure they are not blocked or broken.
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Heavy-duty Crates
Heavy-duty crates are made of strong metal or plastic that can withstand heavy impact or pressure. They are very sturdy, secure, and durable.
They also provide excellent protection for your dog from harsh weather or potential predators.
Heavy-duty crates are often used for large or aggressive dogs that can break out of other types of crates. They are also very heavy, expensive, and hard to move.
They may also be too restrictive or intimidating for some dogs.
Soft-sided Crates
Soft-sided crates are made of fabric with a metal or plastic frame. They are very light, flexible, and easy to carry.
They also provide a soft and comfortable environment for your dog. Soft-sided crates are ideal for short trips or indoor use.
Some dogs may be able to escape or damage soft-sided crates by chewing or scratching them. They may also be harder to clean than wire or plastic crates.
You should only use soft-sided crates for dogs that are already crate trained and well-behaved.
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Furniture Crates
Furniture crates are made of wood or other materials that blend in with your home decor.
They look like end tables, nightstands, or cabinets with a door for your dog to enter and exit. They are very stylish, elegant, and functional.
They also provide a cozy and discreet space for your dog. Furniture crates are perfect for dogs that like to sleep or relax in the same room as you.
Furniture crates are also very costly, bulky, and hard to clean. Also, your dog’s teeth or claws may damage them.
Importance of Choosing the Right Crate Size
There are many reasons why crate size matters, and here are some of them:
Comfort and Security
Your dog’s crate should be a place where they feel comfortable and secure. It should be their own personal space where they can relax and rest.
If the crate is too small, your dog will feel cramped and uncomfortable. They may also develop joint problems or muscle soreness from being in a tight position.
If the crate is too big, your dog will feel exposed and insecure. They may also develop anxiety or behavioral issues from being in a spacious area.
Health and Safety Concerns
Your dog’s crate should also be a place where they are safe and healthy. It should protect them from potential hazards or dangers in your home or outside.
If the crate is too small, your dog will not have enough room to breathe, move, or stretch.
They may also suffer from heatstroke, dehydration, or suffocation from being in a hot or poorly ventilated area.
If the crate is too big, your dog will have too much room to eliminate, play, or chew. They may also suffer from infections, injuries, or poisoning from being in a dirty or unsafe area.
Behavior and Training Implications
Your dog’s crate should also be a place where they learn and behave well. It should help them develop good habits and manners.
If the crate is too small, your dog will not have enough stimulation or enrichment. They may also develop boredom, frustration, or aggression from being in a dull or stressful area.
If the crate is too big, your dog will not have enough discipline or guidance. They may also develop separation anxiety, barking, or digging from being in an uncontrolled or unsupervised area.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Your dog’s crate should also be a place where they are treated fairly and humanely. It should comply with the local laws and animal welfare standards.
If the crate is too small, your dog will not have enough freedom or dignity. They may also suffer from cruelty, neglect, or abuse from being in a cruel or illegal area.
If the crate is too big, your dog will not have enough care or attention. They may also suffer from abandonment, isolation, or neglect from being in an uncaring or irresponsible area.
How to Measure a Dog to Select the Perfect Crate Size?
Here are the steps you need to follow:
Measure the Dog’s Length
The first step is to measure your dog’s length from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail. You can use a measuring tape or a string to do this.
Make sure your dog is standing straight and not curled up or stretched out. Add 6 inches to this measurement to get the minimum length of the crate.
Measure the Dog’s Height
The second step is to measure your dog’s height from the floor to the top of their head or ears (whichever is higher). You can use a measuring tape or a ruler to do this.
Make sure your dog is sitting upright and not slouching or lying down. Add 6 inches to this measurement to get the minimum height of the crate.
Considering the Dog’s Activity Level
The third step is to consider your dog’s activity level and personality. Some dogs are more active and energetic than others.
Some dogs like to curl up and sleep while others like to stretch out and play. You can adjust the crate size according to your dog’s preferences and needs.
For example, if your dog likes to move around a lot in the crate, you can add a few more inches to the length and width of the crate.
If your dog likes to snuggle up and feel cozy in the crate, you can subtract a few inches from the length and width of the crate.
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Factors Influencing Crate Size Selection for a 50 Lb Dog
Several factors may influence your crate size selection for your 50 lb dog, including:
Dog’s Breed and Temperament
Different breeds have different shapes, sizes, and temperaments that may affect their comfort and behavior in a crate.
For example, some breeds have long bodies and short legs (such as Dachshunds), while others have short bodies and long legs (such as Greyhounds).
Some breeds are more prone to anxiety, chewing, or escaping than others, so their crate size may be different.
These breeds may need more durable, secure, or cozy crates than others.
Purpose of the Crate
If you want to use the crate for housetraining, choose one that is just big enough for your dog to stand and turn comfortably.
This will prevent your dog from using one corner of the crate as a bathroom. The crate should be approved by the airline or car manufacturer if you plan to use it for travel.
This will ensure your dog’s safety and comfort during the trip. Your dog will feel happier and sleep better if the crate is cozy and spacious enough for him to stretch out and relax.
Portability and Storage
Different crates have different levels of portability and storage. For example, wire crates are easy to fold and store when not in use.
They are also easy to carry and transport. Plastic crates are lightweight and compact when not in use. They are also easy to carry and transport.
They are also easy to carry and transport. Heavy-duty crates are very heavy and rigid when not in use. They are also hard to carry and transport.
Furniture crates are very stylish and functional when not in use. They are also easy to blend in with your home decor.
Durability and Material
Different crates have different levels of durability and material quality. For example, wire crates are made of metal bars that can withstand chewing, scratching, or bending.
Plastic crates are made of hard plastic that can resist chewing, scratching, or cracking. They are also easy to clean and disinfect.
Soft-sided crates are made of fabric that can be soft, comfortable, and breathable. They are also easy to wash and dry.
Heavy-duty crates are made of strong metal or plastic that can endure heavy impact or pressure.
Furniture crates are made of wood or other materials that can be stylish, elegant, and functional. They are also easy to polish and repair.
Budget and Additional Features
There are lots of options with wire crates for your 50-pound dog, including doors, handles, wheels, trays, covers, mats, and more.
They are usually more expensive than wire crates, but they are cheaper than other kinds.
They are more expensive than heavy-duty crates, furniture crates, dividers, doors, handles, wheels, trays, covers, mats, and more.
Furniture crates usually have fewer options for dividers, doors, handles, wheels, trays, covers, mats, etc. They also come in more colors, designs, shapes, and sizes.
Local Laws and Animal Welfare Standards
Different places have different laws and standards regarding the use of crates for dogs.
For example, some countries or states may require you to have a certain crate size or type for your dog depending on their breed or weight.
Some airlines or car manufacturers may also have specific crate size or type requirements for your dog depending on their destination or model.
You may also find recommendations or guidelines for the best crate size or type from animal welfare organizations.
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Crate Training Tips for a 50 Lb Dog
Here are some basic steps to start crate training your 50 lb dog:
Step 1: Introduce Your Dog to the Crate
The first step is to introduce your dog to the crate in a positive and gradual way.
You should place the crate in a familiar and quiet area of your home where your dog can see and access it easily. Add a soft blanket, a toy, or a treat inside the crate to make it comfortable.
You should then let your dog explore the crate on their own without forcing them in or closing the door.
When your dog shows interest in the crate or goes inside voluntarily, praise and reward them.
Step 2: Feed Your Dog in the Crate
The second step is to feed your dog in the crate to create a positive association with it.
You should start by placing their food bowl near the entrance of the crate and gradually move it further inside as they get more comfortable.
You should also close the door of the crate while they are eating and open it as soon as they finish.
You should repeat this process until your dog can eat calmly and happily in the crate with the door closed.
Step 3: Increase Your Dog’s Time in the Crate
To help your dog get used to staying in the crate for longer periods, increase their time in it.
You should start by asking your dog to go inside the crate using a cue word (such as “crate” or “bed”) and giving them a treat.
You should then close the door of the crate and sit near it for a few minutes. You should then open the door and let them out while praising them.
As you move away from the crate, repeat this process several times a day. You should also vary the time of day you do this so that your dog does not expect it.
Step 4: Leave Your Dog Alone in the Crate
Leaving your dog alone in the crate will help them cope with being separated from you.
Only do this when your dog can stay calm in the crate for at least 30 minutes without whining or barking.
Start by leaving them in the crate with a chew or toy while you go to another room. You should then return and let them out while praising them.
Then gradually go further away from the crate and leave them alone for longer periods of time.
Also, avoid making a big fuss when you leave or return so that your dog does not get too excited.
Step 5: Use the Crate Appropriately
You should only use the crate when you are away or at night to maintain your dog’s positive attitude.
The crate is not a punishment or a way to avoid spending time with your dog. Use it only for short periods of time.
A 50 lb dog should not be crated for more than four to six hours during the day and eight to ten hours at night.
You should also make sure your dog gets enough exercise, socialization, and attention outside the crate.
Best crate for 50 lb dog- comparison chart
SL | Product Name | Key Features |
---|---|---|
1. | MidWest Homes Double Door Life Stages Dog Crate | Includes a FREE divider panel. Design with Two heavy-duty slide-bolt latches. Has Patented rounded corner clips. Easy to assemble and carry. |
2. | New World Pet Products Metal Dog Crate | Includes a leak-proof plastic pan. Have two slide-bolt latches. Comes with Strong and sturdy structural metal. Hold up to 70 lb. |
3. | BestPet Dog Crate Cage for 50 lb Dogs | Has lockable wheel. Design with top and front door. Made of rust and corrosion-resistant steel. Suitable for dogs, ducks, rabbits, and cats. |
Best Crate Review For 50 Lb Dog
1. MidWest Homes Double Door Life Stages Dog Crate
- Double door folding metal dog crate, Life Stages measures 30L x 19W x 21H inches & is suitable for medium dog breeds
- Versatile 2-door dog crate includes a FREE divider panel, durable dog tray, carrying handle, “roller” feet to protect floors & a “MidWest Quality Guarantee” 1-year Manufacturer’s Warranty. Note, we manufacture the iCrate and the Life Stages Dog Crate. The main difference is the Life Stages is made of heavier gauge steel and has a tighter wire mesh making it stronger than iCrate
- Two heavy duty slide-bolt latches (per door) securely lock dog crate door in place keeping your dog safely inside their pet home
- Easy assembly & portable dog crate | Sets up in seconds w/ no tools required for assembly & dog crate folds flat for convenient storage or travel
- Durable design creates a safe place for your pet while you’re away & provides for your dog’s instinctual “den” instincts. Patented rounded corner clips greatly reduce possible sharp-points your dog’s crate for a safer experience for you & your dog
This MidWest Homes Double Door Life Stages Dog Crate is one of the best size dog crates for a 50 lb dog.
With a combination of a double door, try, divider panel, and ground protection roller feet, this dog crate will ensure a lifetime of impressive service to the dog s well as the owner.
The dog crate is made of heavy-duty metal and is extremely portable to carry, while available at a decent price and offers a 1-year warranty.
Improved security
This dog crate has a rounded corner and a secure slide-bolt latch door to keep the 50 lb dog well secure inside the latches.
Versatile and portable
This dog crate comes with a divider panel, making it worth buying for various sizes of dogs while still offering better security and free movement.
Plus, the unit includes a carrying handle for easier portability while the fold and carry design boosts mobility.
Durable design
It’s a double-door folding metal dog crate that ensures a safe place for a dog for longer seasons.
Plus, its patented rounded corner clips will greatly lower the risk of getting hurt.
Pros
- The dog crate is easy to assemble and transport.
- It has two heavy-duty slide-bolt latches for enhanced protection.
- It comes with a divider panel.
- Made from a tough metal
Cons
- The door doesn’t lie flat against the crate side.
FAQs
How much weight is this dog crate?
It is only 25 pounds.
What is the dimension of this dog crate?
Dimensions: 30″ x 21″ x 24″
2. New World Pet Products Folding Metal Dog Crate
- Single door metal dog crate, measures 36L x 23W x 25H inches and is ideal for dogs 41 – 70 pounds
- Includes leak-proof plastic pan and a 1 year Manufacturer’s Warrranty
- Two slide-bolt latches securely lock door in place
- Dog crate folds flat for convenient storage, travel and portabilitiy
- Strong and sturdy structual metal crate design creates a safe place for your pet while you’re away
Considering the size along with convenience, this New World Pet Products Folding Metal Dog Crate is the best dog crate for a 50 lb dog.
Apart from ensuring improved security and free movement, this dog crate will offer durable service with superior portability.
The dog crate is available at a reasonable price with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty as well.
Strong wire construction
This dog crate for a 50-pound dog is made of wire to allow for proper ventilation and visibility of the surroundings.
Plus, the crate has large swing-open doors for easy entrance and exit.
Easier storage
This dog crate is so easy to assemble that it doesn’t require any tools and a single person can handle the task conveniently.
Durable plastic pan
The dog crate features an easy-to-clean and removed plastic pan that is held securely in place. You can easily clean it using mild soap and water.
Pros
- Made from a strong metal structure
- It has two slide-bolt latches to securely lock the door in place.
- It comes with a leak-proof plastic pan
- The wire construction ensures proper ventilation.
Cons
- The dog crate doesn’t include a crate divider for the puppy stage.
FAQs
How much weight can this dog crate hold?
The dog crate is suitable for a 40 to 70-pound dog.
Is the wire black coated?
Yes, black powder-coated finish.
3. BestPet Dog Crate Cage for 50 lb Dogs
- ☼【EASY TO INSTAL】Our dog crate versatile design allows for extremely easy set up and take down to fold and store it away. We assembled dog cage in less than 10 minute, majority of the part of dog kennel already preassembled. dog crate dog cage dog kennel
- ☼【LOCKABLE WHEELS】The dog cage includes four rolling casters (two lockable) for easy transfer from room to room. Two wheels have locks to prevent accidental movement and keep your dog crate securely in place. The dog dog kennel provides a secure and convenient use in your daily life.dog kennel dog crate dog cage
- ☼【TOP AND FRONT DOOR DESIGN】Top and front door design makes our dog kennel easier to access or feeding your pets. Heavy duty slide-bolt latch securely locks dog crate door in place keeping your dog safely inside their pet home. You pet will love our cage.dog cage dog kennel dog crate
- ☼【REMOVABLE PAN FOR EASY CLEANING】 Our dog crate grated design allows for any soiling to drop to the lower pan to maintain a clean environment for pets. And the dog kennel can easily slide out from the bottom for easy and convenient cleaning.dog crate dog cage dog kennel
- ☼【STURDY AND DURABLE】Our dog kennel made from rust and corrosion-resistant steel,strong and durable, hard to be damaged,nontoxic finished surface keep your dog healthy and render excellent anti-rust ability.our dog cage is suitable for most medium and large dogs,two locks with the safety buckles to prevent the dogs from opening the door and escaping.dog cage dog kennel dog crate
If you are looking for a slightly large and heavy-duty dog crate for your 50-pound dog, you can buy this BestPet Dog Crate Cage.
This heavy-duty is made from rust and corrosion-resistant steel and has a lockable wheel to ensure improved protection and prevent accidental movement.
Easier access
This dog crate has a top and a front door for extremely easy access and feeding. Plus, its top-class slide-bolt latch ensures a secure door lock to keep the pet safe.
Sturdy construction
The dog crate is constructed with corrosion-resistant steel and has a nontoxic finished surface.
Thus, the dog crate ensures weather protection and keeps the dog in good health, making it worth buying at a considerably higher price.
Lockable wheel
This dog crate for 50 lb dogs has four rolling casters for easier transfer, and these can be locked to prevent them from automatically rolling.
Pros
- It comes with a versatile design for easier assembly
- It has a lockable wheel.
- It has two tops and a front door.
- The dog crate has a removable pan for easier cleaning.
Cons
- Cost a little more money
FAQs
How much time is required to assemble?
Less than 10 minutes
Does the dog crate include a divider?
No
FAQs on what size dog crate for a 50 lb dog
Can I size up and get a bigger crate for a 50 pound dog?
It’s fine to size up, but don’t go too big.
What if my 50 pound dog is still a growing puppy?
For a puppy, size the crate to the expected adult size and use crate dividers to allocate only needed space until they grow into it.
Is wire or plastic better for a 50 pound dog?
Plastic kennels are more enclosed and warmer.
How do I get a 50 pound dog comfortable using a crate?
Use treats and toys to create positive associations with the crate.
Can a crate be too big for effective house training?
Yes, an oversized crate allows accidents in one corner and sleeping in the other, delaying house training.
Final words
Hopefully, now you know what size crate for 50 lb dog you need.
Aside from these, you have three top dog crate recommendations to provide your 50-pound pets with adequate space and security.
Still, you should measure your pet following the process we mentioned above so you can pick the exact dog crate.