Dog Crate Pet Smart: How to Choose and Set One Up (2026)

By Audrey Hayes

Updated November 2026

A dog crate from PetSmart or any other pet retailer can be a useful training and rest space, but only if it fits your dog and your home. In this guide, you will learn how to measure your dog, choose the right type of dog crate pet smart shoppers commonly find, set it up so your dog wants to go inside, and avoid the mistakes that make crates a source of stress.

What to Look for in a Dog Crate Pet Smart Shoppers Can Trust

Large pet retailers carry several crate styles, and the labels can be confusing. Some are sold as “training crates,” others as “travel crates” or “furniture crates,” and the sizing charts do not always match. Before you compare brands, decide how you plan to use the crate. A crate for overnight sleep, a crate for daytime confinement while you work, and a crate for car travel each call for slightly different features.

Shopping for one? See our guide: 7 Best Pet Crate Large Dog Options for Home and Travel (2026).

Manufacturers generally specify a size range based on weight and breed. Treat those charts as a starting point, then check the actual interior measurements against your dog’s body.

Step 1: Measure Your Dog Correctly

Crate sizing is the step most owners get wrong. A crate that is too small is unpleasant and can make house training harder. A crate that is too large lets a puppy use one corner as a toilet and sleep in another.

1. Length: Measure from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, then add 2 to 4 inches.
2. Height: Measure from the floor to the top of the head while the dog is standing naturally (or from the floor to the tips of the ears if the dog has upright ears), then add 2 inches.
3. Width: Measure at the widest point of the shoulders or hips, then add 2 to 4 inches.

The dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down fully stretched out. For a growing puppy, a divider panel can make a larger crate usable for several months.

Step 2: Choose the Right Crate Type

Most dog crates fall into three categories. Each has trade-offs in weight, durability and airflow.

For a dog that is still learning to settle, a wire crate with a secure double-door latch is usually the most practical choice. If you plan to fly with your dog, check airline requirements first, since many carriers specify hard-sided models with ventilation on specific sides.

Step 3: Check Build Quality and Safety Features

Before buying, inspect the features that matter most in daily use:

• Latches that cannot be opened by a determined nose or paw
• Floor pans that are removable and easy to wipe clean
• Smooth wire edges or protective coatings, with no sharp points
• A tray that slides out for cleaning without tipping the whole crate
• Stable feet or a base that prevents rocking

Owners often report that the most frustrating problems come from flimsy door latches and wire joints that loosen over time. Tighten all fasteners after the first week of use.

Step 4: Set Up the Crate So Your Dog Wants to Use It

Placement matters as much as the crate itself. Put it in a room where the family spends time, so the dog does not feel isolated. Avoid spots with direct sun, drafts, or heavy foot traffic that makes the dog feel unsettled.

Bedding and Comfort

Use a bed sized to the crate floor, with a washable cover. Chewers should not have fabric they can swallow. A simple, flat mat works well for most dogs. Avoid overheating: a thick bed in a warm room can cause discomfort.

Introducing the Crate

1. Leave the door open and place a few treats near the entrance, then inside.
2. Feed meals inside the crate with the door open, then gradually close the door for a few seconds while the dog eats.
3. Increase the time by small amounts over several days. Stop if the dog shows distress and go back a step.
4. Practice short absences, starting with one or two minutes, and build toward longer periods.

For a more detailed breakdown of the training approach, see Why Is Crate Training Important for Dogs? Benefits and How-To. It explains how short, positive sessions build confidence over time.

Step 5: Size Up as Your Puppy Grows

Puppies can outgrow a crate within a few months, depending on breed. Many owners use a divider panel to adjust the space, then remove it as the dog matures. If you are buying for a dog that will reach a large adult size, look at options designed for big breeds from the start. Sizing a Crate for an Adult Dog covers how to plan for that transition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Buying too large for a puppy: The extra room can encourage accidents. Use a divider.
• Using the crate as punishment: A dog that associates the crate with trouble will resist it.
• Leaving a dog in the crate for too many hours: Adult dogs generally should not be confined for more than a few hours at a time during the day, and puppies need far more frequent bathroom breaks.
• Skipping the test run: Before a long absence, practice shorter ones to confirm the dog settles.
• Ignoring the latch: Check it daily. Escape attempts can cause injury.
• Using a crate with a blanket that covers the whole thing: Restricted airflow can lead to overheating.

Tips for Long-Term Success

• Keep the routine consistent, including meals, walks and bedtime.
• Give a special chew or puzzle toy only inside the crate to build a positive association.
• Clean the crate weekly with pet-safe cleaners, and rinse thoroughly.
• If your dog whines or barks, assess whether it needs a bathroom break, exercise or more gradual training before increasing the time.
• If your dog shows intense panic, drooling, or self-injury in the crate, consult a veterinarian or a certified professional dog trainer for guidance.

Recommended Gear

A few supplies make crate life easier. Here are options worth considering:

• MidWest Homes for Pets Single Door Folding Metal Dog Crate: A wire crate with a divider panel, which helps with puppy sizing. View on Amazon
• Frisco Heavy Duty Fabric Dog Crate Pad: A washable pad that fits many standard wire crates and keeps the floor comfortable. View on Amazon
• Kong Classic Dog Toy: A durable chew toy that can be stuffed with food to keep a dog occupied inside the crate. View on Amazon

FAQ

Is a dog crate from PetSmart good enough for daily use?

Many standard wire and plastic crates sold at pet retailers are suitable for daily use if they are the correct size and have secure latches. Check the weight and size ratings against your dog before buying.

How big should a crate be for a puppy?

Measure your puppy’s adult-size estimate or current length, height and width, then add the recommended allowance. A divider panel lets you adjust the space as the puppy grows.

How long can a dog stay in a crate?

Adult dogs generally should not be crated for more than about four to six hours at a time during the day, and puppies need bathroom breaks much more often. Your veterinarian can advise on your dog’s specific needs.

Should I cover the crate with a blanket?

A partial cover can help some dogs feel secure, but the crate must have enough ventilation. Never cover it so that airflow is blocked.

My dog cries when I put him in the crate. What should I do?

Go back to shorter sessions and make the crate more rewarding with food and toys. If the crying is intense or does not improve, speak with a certified trainer or your veterinarian.

Can I leave water in the crate?

For adult dogs, a bowl that is secured to the wall or a spill-resistant option is usually fine for shorter periods. Puppies may need access to water less often or with supervision, so ask your vet about your puppy’s needs.

Are wire crates safe?

Wire crates are safe when they are well made, with smooth edges and secure fasteners. Inspect them regularly for loose parts. For background on how wire styles compare, see Wire Dog Crates: Home Use and Limits.

Conclusion

Choosing a dog crate pet smart shoppers can find comes down to accurate sizing, the right crate type for your routine, and a gradual introduction that keeps your dog comfortable. Set the crate in a family area, use short positive sessions, and check the latches and fittings regularly. With those basics in place, your dog will have a secure space that supports training, rest and travel.

Related reading

• Small Dog Pet Crate: 6 Best Picks for Small Breeds (2026)

About Audrey Hayes

Audrey Hayes is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our dogs & puppies guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.