Kennel Size Finder
Your dog should have at least 2–3″ above their head when sitting/standing in the kennel — and this includes their ears if they stick up — and the kennel should be at least 3–4″ longer than your dog. Put in the two numbers and we’ll point you at the series from our kennel guide that they fall in.
Find your kennel size
Not sure how to measure? How to measure your dog — a seamstress’ tape, lying down for length, sitting as tall as possible for height.
Why the size matters
Without accurate measurements you risk ordering the wrong size kennel and having the hassle of exchanging them or, worse, showing up at the airport and having your dog denied boarding because the kennel you ordered is too big or too small. Many airlines require their staff to submit a picture of the dog beside the kennel; this picture is shared with a manager and if it looks wrong your furry friend is not going to be making their flight.
Airline regulations require at least 3″ clearance on length and when sitting inside the carrier. Please keep in mind the water absorbent mats we recommend are 1″ thick. For most dogs the sitting height is the determining factor in choosing the right size, however, with Dachshunds and “weiner dogs” and similarly shaped breeds length will be the determining factor.
Ready to move? Get a free travel quote and put the measurements in the form — we’ll recommend the kennel with the quote. Flying to Hawaii? Read this first. On PCS orders? Military moves.
Finder questions
What measurements does the kennel size finder need?
Your dog’s sitting height, measured from the ground to the top of the head or the tip of the ears if they stick up, and length from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail while lying down. How to take them.
Which measurement decides the kennel size?
For most dogs the sitting height is the determining factor in choosing the right size. With Dachshunds and “weiner dogs” and similarly shaped breeds, length will be the determining factor.
Which brand of travel kennel do you recommend?
Most of the kennels we recommend are produced by PetMate — the Sky Kennel is considered the Gold Standard for pet travel and meets IATA requirements for live animal transport. The PP90, PP100 and Impact kennels are the exceptions, for very big dogs, airlines with height limits, and breeds some airlines classify as dangerous. The full guide.