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Crate training: My dog can't turn around. Is her crate too small?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

I want to crate train my 1 year old dog. I bought a "medium" crate for her , shes 25 lbs - aussie/dashund mix so shes kind of long shaped. The measurments on the box are for a dog even taller/wider than mine... but the crate doesnt really seem big enough for her to turn around in (unless she kind of squirmed up into a circle). Do you think I need to buy a larger crate? Why does the size on the box say its good for the dog's size.. / ?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Megan, DVM, CVA

Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on April 2nd, 2018

So a crate should be big enough for them to stand up and turn around. It is usually a pretty tight turn but they can still turn around in it. If she can't turn around at all then yes, you need to get a bigger crate. If you are just worried she won't be comfortable then you can go up in size. Just keep in mind that in order to crate train a dog you don't want the crate to be too big. If it is too big, they will be tempted to pee/poop on one side and sleep on the other size. I hope this helps!
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