The Shih Tzu, or Chrysanthemum Dog, is the 17th most popular breed in the USA.
Though they are fantastic companions, they can nip and bite the children at home, which can be avoided by applying proper crate training.
In this case, you must know what size crate for Shih Tzu is to ensure successful crate training and a comfortable home.
Following we have revealed the right size crate for Shih Tzu and included all the information related to picking the best crate for Shih Tzu.
What Size Crate For A Shih Tzu?
For a Shih Tzu, a crate size of about 24 inches in length, 18 inches wide, and 19 inches high is recommended. This provides ample space for the dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Ensure it’s well-ventilated and secure for the safety and comfort of your pet.
Shih Tzu Crate Size Chart:
| Shih Tzu Age | Recommended Crate Size | Dimensions (L x W x H) | Preferable Model |
|---|---|---|---|
| Puppy | Small | 18″ x 12″ x 14″ | Petmate Two Door Top Load |
| Adult | Medium | 24″ x 18″ x 21″ | Midwest iCrate Double Door |
| Senior | Medium to Large | 24″-30″ x 18″-20″ x 21″-24″ | Frisco Fold & Carry Double Door |
Types of Crates Suitable for Shih Tzus
When it comes to selecting the right crate for your Shih Tzu, there are several types of crates to choose from. Here are some of the most common types of crates and their benefits and drawbacks:
Plastic Crates
Plastic crates are lightweight, durable, and easy to clean. They are also well-ventilated and provide good visibility for your dog.
However, they may not be as sturdy as other types of crates and may not provide as much ventilation.
Wire Crates
Wire crates are sturdy, durable, and provide good ventilation. They also allow your dog to see outside the crate, which can help reduce anxiety.
However, they may not be as comfortable as other types of crates and may not provide as much privacy.
Soft-Sided Crates
Soft-sided crates are lightweight and easy to transport. They are also comfortable for your dog to lie in and provide good ventilation. However, they may not be as durable as other types of crates and may not provide as much protection.
Furniture-Style Crates
Furniture-style crates are designed to blend in with your home decor. They can double as end tables or other pieces of furniture and provide a stylish option for crate training your dog. However, they may not be as sturdy or durable as other types of crates.
How to determine the right size crate for a Shih Tzu?
Choose a crate for your Shih Tzu that is not too small or too big.
The recommended dimensions are 24L x 18W x 21H or 24L x 18W x 19H, with the height varying based on the size of the dog.
Measuring your Shih Tzu is recommended for an exact fit.
Measure your Shih Tzu
To pick the ideal size crate for your Shih Tzu, you have to measure his height, and length.
Keep the dog in a sitting position and measure the height between the floor and his head.
Then add an extra three to four inches to the measurement so your pooch can stand up inside the crate without hitting the roof.
Then they measure from the tip of the nose to the end of the tail of your Shih Tzu to find out his original length.
I like the height. Add four inches to the measurement to ensure enough room inside of the crate so the Shih Tzu can turn around comfortably.
Other Things To Consider
Size isn’t the only crucial consideration while searching for the best crate for Shih Tzus. The following are some aspects that are worth checking:
Material
Crates are usually made of different materials, including metal, plastic, and wood. Though wire and metal crates are common options, plastic crates are perfect for traveling.
Conversely, stainless steel crates are, overall, the best option to choose.
Adjustable Divider Panel
This is a smart feature to have in a large crate, especially for growing pups.
This will prevent you from buying several crates along with the growth of the Shih Tzu and ensure the right amount of space based on their size.
Portability
Shih Tzus are a small dog breed, and many pet parents prefer to take them in a crate for transportation.
If you plan to travel with your little furry friend, buy a collapsible crate.
You can pack it flat when you don’t need it, and this lightweight crate is perfect for moving around.
A crate with soft rubber rollers or wheels is also a handy option to move the crate over the floor without leaving any scratches.
No Sharp Edges
Many normal crates contain sharp edges, which can injure your little pooch while moving around. To avoid this hassle, make sure your crate doesn’t have any sharp edges.
Slide-Out Tray
Your Shih Tzu can suffer from stomach upset and start using the potty while in the crate. This can make the floor dirty, and it will be an irritation for you to clean.
That’s why a crate with a slide-out tray would be a smart solution to keep the home environment clean even if your Shih Tzu suffers from diarrhea or other diseases.
Benefits of a properly sized crate
Here are some benefits of using a properly sized crate for your Shih Tzu:
Comfort and security
A crate that fits your Shih Tzu well will provide a comfortable and secure space for them to rest and relax.
Positive association with the crate
When your Shih Tzu is comfortable in their crate, they are more likely to associate it with positive experiences, such as receiving treats or spending time with you.
Safe and effective crate training
A properly sized crate is important for effective crate training. It will allow your Shih Tzu to develop good habits and avoid accidents in the crate.
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FAQs on What Size Crate For A Shih Tzu
Should You Put The Shih Tzu In A Crate?
The Shih Tzu is a small and calm dog breed. Unlike a guard dog or hunting dog, they need to feel secure, especially during the night.
As a result, a crate is an excellent solution for feeling secure and sleeping soundly at night.
Is Crate Training To Shih Tzu Time-Consuming?
Not at all. It can take around 6 months to fully crate train your Shih Tzu dog.
After that, you can confidently leave your little furry friend at home and they will remain happy and safe.
The crate training must be positive.
Can I use a crate that is bigger than the recommended size for my Shih Tzu?
It’s not recommended to use a crate that is significantly bigger than the recommended size for your Shih Tzu.
A crate that is too big may lead to the dog leaving waste in one corner and not feeling secure, which can make crate training more difficult.
Final words
Shih Tzus are small dog breeds but can be aggressive without proper crate training and socialization.
And successful crate training largely depends on the crate and where you’ll train them.
That’s why knowing what size crate is for a Shih Tzu is so important.
Apart from the crate size, the related considerations will also help you pick the best crate so your little furry friend can feel secure and sleep comfortably in his new home.
