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What Crate Size Does a Miniature Schnauzer Need? Measuring Guide

Patricia Dickson

By Patricia Dickson

 

miniature schnauzer inside a dog carrier crate

Though you hate the idea of locking up your Miniature Schnauzer as a pet parent, crate training is the best way to go in most cases. However, you have to ensure you get the right crate to meet your Mini Schnauzers needs.

There truly is no one-size-fits-all when choosing the best crate size for this dog breed. The size you choose will depend on a few factors, including your Schnauzer’s weight, age, and height. For example, for puppies, you want a crate that gives them room to grow, but for an adult dog, you need a crate that lets them stand up and turn around. We’ll discuss which crate size is best for your Miniature Schnauzer and more below.

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Guidelines for Choosing the Right Size Crate

To help you determine the size of your crate, here are a few guidelines to follow:

Puppies: 24” long and 18” wide crate
Adult Dogs: 36” long and 24” wide crate
Giant Breeds: 48” long and 40” wide crate

If you’re not sure which size crate will work best for your furry friend, you should consult your vet for recommendations. You can also talk to a dog trainer who can recommend the right dog crate size for you. After all, the last thing you want is for your Miniature Schnauzer to be uncomfortable and miserable while you’re away from home all day long.

miniature schnauzer black dog standing outdoors
Image Credit: Anna Zhidkova, Shutterstock

What Is a Crate?

The crate is usually made of plastic or metal. Crates are used for everything from a mode of transportation to a place for the pet to stay when the owner isn’t home.

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Reasons to Use a Crate for Your Miniature Schnauzer

There has been much debate over the years about whether it’s a good thing to use a crate for pets. There are a few reasons you should use a crate for your Miniature Schnauzer.

  • A crate is useful for house training a puppy
  • Crates teach good behavior and prevent destructive behavior
  • It’s a stress-free place for your pet to unwind
  • The crate prevents aggressive chewing
  • It can be used to transport your dog

What Is the Best Crate for a Mini Schnauzer?

The best type of crate for your Mini Schnauzer is one that’s ventilated and highly durable. While you want to find a crate that fits into your budget, it’s best to choose one that’s long-lasting, or you could end up having to spend more money to purchase another crate faster than you thought you would.

Make sure that the crate has a comfortable floor mat, and add comfortable bedding to make the crate more inviting to your furry friend.

A wired crate makes it possible for your pet to get an unobstructed view, and they are usually well-ventilated. Also, your pet shouldn’t be able to chew through the wired crate. You can use a plastic crate, but your Miniature Schnauzer may find it too confining.

Miniature Schnauzer
Image Credit: Debra Anderson, Shutterstock

How Do I Choose the Right-Sized Crate for My Miniature Schnauzer?

Choosing the right size crate for your Miniature Schnauzer is critical to the crate training success. The last thing you want is for your dog to be uncomfortable, cramped, and miserable in the crate you choose.

If the crate you choose is too small, you risk your pet being miserable and uncomfortable. A crate that is too large will allow your dog to use the bathroom in the crate, which will make for a horrible mess and not teach your dog anything at all.

The best way to choose the right size crate is by following the manufacturers’ measurements. These measurements are based on the dog’s weight, height, and length.

If you feel you can’t choose the right size, make an appointment with your vet. They’ll measure your pet and let you know the proper size crate.

Once you’ve chosen a crate for your Miniature Schnauzer, get the dog used to it gradually. You don’t want to end up with the dog being afraid of the crate, so take your time, and make the crate as inviting to your furry friend as possible for the best results.

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Final Thoughts

Choosing an appropriately sized crate for your Miniature Schnauzer isn’t as hard as you think. Make sure the crate you choose is comfortable, durable, and well-ventilated, so your pet will see it as a second home. You can use the measurements we listed above as a starting point, but if you are unsure what the ideal size is for your canine friend, it’s best to consult your vet or a professional dog trainer.


Featured Image Credit: Budimir Jevtic, Shutterstock

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