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Most bulldog owners ask the same thing: what size crate should I get? This page answers that first, then covers whether you need a crate at all, how to use one kindly, and three sizes of one popular crate described from the maker’s listings. It is general information, not veterinary or behaviour advice.
What Size Bulldog Crate Should I Get?
Both the AKC and Dogs Trust give the same test: a crate should be big enough for your dog to stand up, turn around and lie down. The AKC adds that a crate that is too big lets a puppy eliminate at one end and sleep at the other, and suggests buying for the adult size with a divider panel. Measure your dog, check your dog’s weight with your vet, and compare it with the maker’s weight range on the listing.
MidWest’s listings give: 30-inch (about 76 cm) for 21–40 lb dogs (about 10–18 kg), “perfect for French Bulldogs”; 36-inch (about 93 cm) for 41–70 lb (about 19–32 kg), “perfect for Bulldogs, Beagles, Whippets & similar breeds”; and 42-inch (about 107 cm) for 71–90 lb (about 32–41 kg). The 36-inch listing says that for dogs near 70 lb you should consider sizing up.
Bulldog Crates To Compare
MidWest iCrate, 30-Inch Double Door
MidWest iCrate, 30-Inch Double DoorA folding wire crate, about 77 x 49 x 55 cm, with a divider panel, leak-proof tray, slide-bolt latches, a carry handle and tool-free assembly. The listing suits it to dogs of about 10–18 kg.Check price on AmazonAffiliate link — Dog Fluffy may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.The listing describes a folding wire crate, 30.5 x 19.25 x 21.5 inches (about 77 x 49 x 55 cm), with a divider panel, leak-proof tray, rounded corner clips, slide-bolt latches, a carry handle and tool-free assembly, for dogs of 21–40 lb (about 10–18 kg).
MidWest iCrate, 36-Inch Double Door
MidWest iCrate, 36-Inch Double DoorThe same crate family at about 93 x 59 x 63 cm, for dogs of about 19–32 kg. The listing names Bulldogs.Check price on AmazonAffiliate link — Dog Fluffy may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.The same family, at 36.5 x 23.25 x 24.75 inches (about 93 x 59 x 63 cm), for dogs of 41–70 lb (about 19–32 kg). The listing names Bulldogs.
MidWest iCrate, 42-Inch Double Door
MidWest iCrate, 42-Inch Double DoorThe same crate family at about 109 x 73 x 77 cm, for dogs of about 32–41 kg. It suits large dogs only.Check price on AmazonAffiliate link — Dog Fluffy may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.The same family, at 42.88 x 28.75 x 30.38 inches (about 109 x 73 x 77 cm), for dogs of 71–90 lb (about 32–41 kg). It suits large dogs only.
New World 42-Inch Single Door Crate
New World 42-Inch Single Door CrateA single-door wire crate, about 108 x 72 x 77 cm, with an open wire design, for dogs of about 32–41 kg. The divider panel is not included.Check price on AmazonAffiliate link — Dog Fluffy may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.The listing describes a single-door wire crate, 42.5 x 28.5 x 30.5 inches (about 108 x 72 x 77 cm), with an open wire design and the same style of latches, tray and handle, for dogs of 71–90 lb (about 32–41 kg). The divider panel is not included.
Do You Really Need a Bulldog Crate?
Not every dog needs one. A crate can give a dog a quiet, den-like place to rest, a safe spot while you cannot watch a puppy, and help with house training, because a right-sized crate discourages soiling. Dogs Trust says to set it up in a calm, quiet place with the dog’s bed, a blanket and a non-spill water bowl, to introduce it slowly in the dog’s own time, to fix the door open at first, and never to use it to punish a dog.
Do not leave a dog crated longer than it can cope with or hold its bladder. The AKC says senior dogs may find long periods in a crate uncomfortable. If your dog panics, pants, drools or tries to escape, stop: the AKC says never to crate a dog if it causes stress or panic, and that dogs with separation anxiety can hurt themselves trying to get out. Talk to your vet or a qualified behaviourist rather than relying on a crate.
Keep the crate somewhere cool and well ventilated. The AKC says breeds with short snouts need extra caution in warm weather, and a Royal Veterinary College study found brachycephalic dogs have greater odds of heat-related illness. Never put a crate in direct sun or leave your dog in a parked car.
Related reading: Living With An English Bulldog – 4 Important Considerations.
Choosing A Crate
- Purpose: a home crate can be a wire crate or a furniture-style crate; for travel, ask the maker whether a crate is made for it.
- Material: wire is the usual choice; the listings above describe a black e-coat finish and slide-bolt latches.
- Size: as above.
- Comfort: a washable bed or mat that fits the floor of the crate; many beds are sold in crate sizes.
Concluding Thoughts
Choosing a crate for a bulldog comes down to size, ventilation and how you use it. Use the stand-up, turn-around, lie-down test, check the maker’s weight range, introduce the crate slowly, and ask your vet or a behaviourist if your dog is distressed in it. I hope this guide helps.
