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Interior Width for dog kennels is the measurement of the shortest straight distance across the floor space from one side to the other. You must choose a width that provides enough clearance for your dog to turn around comfortably while ensuring the unit fits within your available floor space.
Which Interior Width Suits Your Dog?
| If this is you | The Interior Width that suits you | Why |
|---|---|---|
| You own a small breed like a Yorkie or Chihuahua | 17.3in to 22in | These smaller dogs require less floor space to pivot and sit comfortably. |
| You own a medium breed like a Beagle or Cocker Spaniel | 22in to 28in | This range allows a medium-sized dog to turn without hitting the side walls. |
| You own a large breed like a Labrador or Golden Retriever | 28in to 36in | Larger dogs need substantial width to lie down fully extended or rotate their bodies. |
| You own an extra-large or giant breed like a Great Dane | 36in to 48in | Giant breeds require maximum width to prevent muscle cramping and allow for full movement. |
| You have limited floor space in a small apartment or laundry room | 17.3in to 24in | Narrower widths allow for a smaller footprint while still accommodating smaller pets. |
Where these choices show up in our reviews
Each of the 3 shown here has its own full review on this site; they run from $134.99 to $154.99.
If you are on a budget, see budget-friendly small dog kennels under $150.
How do you measure the correct Interior Width?
The Interior Width of a dog kennel is usually stated as a single figure in the product specifications, often appearing alongside the interior length and height. To find your required value, you must measure the specific area where the kennel will live and the physical dimensions of your dog.
Nervous pets may require a specialized space, so view our comparison of best dog kennels for high anxiety dogs.
Measuring dog shoulder width ensures enough space to turn 180 degrees
Start by measuring the width of your dog when they are standing in a natural position. Note that a dog’s shoulder width is the primary factor for the kennel’s interior floor space. For most dogs, you want a width that allows them to turn 180 degrees without their shoulders touching the sides. If a dog cannot turn around, they may experience restricted movement or become frustrated in the enclosure.
Large breeds require extra-strength structures; see our list of heavy duty dog kennels for large dogs.
Subtracting wall thickness from available floor space ensures a proper fit
Next, measure the available floor space where the kennel will be placed. Because the Interior Width only measures the inside of the unit, the exterior footprint will be larger due to the thickness of the walls and the door frame. If your available floor space is 30in wide, you cannot select a kennel with an Interior Width of 28in, as the outer walls will likely exceed your 30in limit. Always subtract at least 2 to 4 inches from your available floor space to account for the thickness of the kennel’s construction materials.
Once you have the width, you should also determine the proper interior height for dog kennels.
Verifying interior width measurements prevents ordering a kennel that is too large
Check the listing for the “Interior Width” or “Inner Width” specifically. Do not rely on “Width” alone, as some manufacturers may use that term to describe the exterior footprint. Look for the figure that corresponds to the internal floor area to ensure the dog has the space they need.
New owners can start by learning how a dog kennel works.
What happens if the Interior Width is too small or too large?
Choosing an Interior Width that is too small leads to a failure mode known as structural breach or physical restriction. If a dog is forced into a space where it cannot turn around, it may attempt to push against the walls with high force. In wire or plastic kennels, this constant pressure can lead to the dog eventually pushing through the material or damaging the frame. A dog that cannot move freely often develops muscle cramping or becomes distressed because it cannot adjust its posture.
Ensure your choice is structurally sound by checking the weight capacity for dog kennels.
Narrower kennel widths provide a sense of security for anxious dogs
Conversely, an Interior Width that is too large can create a sense of insecurity for the animal. Dogs often feel safest when they can touch the walls of their kennel with their bodies. If the interior is too wide, the dog may feel exposed in the center of the space, which can lead to anxiety or a refusal to enter the kennel. A dog that feels “lost” in a large crate may pace the floor rather than resting.
If a traditional crate isn’t the right fit, explore various dog kennel alternatives.
Verifying dimensions before purchase avoids the cost of returning large kennels
The cost of an incorrect width is often a return of the product. Because kennel sizes are specific, a unit that is 2 inches too wide for a hallway or 2 inches too narrow for a dog’s turn radius becomes unusable. Many retailers have specific return policies for large items, so verifying these numbers before purchase is the only way to ensure the kennel fits your specific environment.
Understanding your budget helps narrow your choices; see what dog kennels cost at different price levels.
What should you do if your dog falls between two Interior Widths?
When your dog’s measurements fall between two standard sizes, you should prioritize the larger Interior Width. It is much easier to manage a slightly larger kennel in a room than it is to force a dog into a space that is too tight. If a dog is at the upper limit of a smaller size, they will likely outgrow that space as they develop muscle and weight.
For a stylish home option, see our full Boldbone Dog Crate review.
A 26in to 30in interior width suits many medium sized breeds
The median Interior Width among the 111 dog kennel listings we evaluated is 26in. This represents a common middle ground for many medium-sized breeds. If you are unsure, starting at the 26in to 30in range provides a balance between maneuverability and a compact footprint. This range accommodates a wide variety of household pets without taking up excessive floor space.
If you need a larger furniture piece, view our full Hzuaneri XL Dog Crate review.
Increasing kennel length compensates for a narrow interior width
If the larger width is physically impossible to fit in your home, you must reconsider the breed’s requirements. A dog that is too large for a small kennel will eventually experience physical discomfort. In these cases, look for a kennel with a longer Interior Length to compensate for a narrower width, as some dogs can turn more easily if they have more room to move forward and backward.
This specific piece offers a sleek look; see our full EasyCom Dog Crate review.
The range of available Interior Widths
The dog kennels we evaluated show a wide variety of options, with Interior Widths ranging from 17.3in to 48in. This range allows for specialized solutions depending on your specific needs. Smaller options near the 17.3in mark are designed for compact living, while the 48in options are reserved for heavy-duty containment of the largest breeds.
For a versatile portable option, check our full Vari Pets Kennel review.
Browse our other dog kennel pages
- Securing a Pet in the Backyard With a Heavy Duty Outdoor Dog Kennel
- The Dog Kennels That Work Best for Travel
- Which Dog Crate Furniture Is Best for a Living Room?
- Best Heavy Duty Dog Kennels for Large Dogs
- Calming Dog Kennels for High Anxiety Dogs Compared
- Choosing the Best Outdoor Dog Kennels with Canopy