What Size Crate for a Pomeranian? Size Chart and Buying Guide

Sharing is caring!

Wondering what size crate for a Pomeranian will give your dog enough room to rest comfortably? Crates in the 18–24-inch range are worth comparing, but the right choice depends on your Pom’s measurements and the usable space inside the particular model.

A suitable dog crate for your Pomeranian should allow them to stand and sit naturally, turn around easily and lie down comfortably. Choosing by a label such as “extra small” or a breed recommendation alone can lead to a poor fit.

I’m Denise Leo, a Pomeranian breeder since 1975, ANKC Specialist Judge and author of The Pomeranian Handbook. In this guide, I’ll explain how to measure your dog, compare common Pomeranian crate sizes and choose a practical design for puppyhood, adult life or travel.

How to Measure Your Pomeranian for a Crate

Before buying a crate for your Pomeranian, measure your dog and check the manufacturer’s sizing guide. Labels such as “extra small” and “small” vary between brands, so they are only a starting point.

Have your Pom stand naturally on a level surface. Ask someone to help if your dog finds the measuring tape particularly interesting!

Measure Your Pomeranian’s Length

Measure from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, where the tail joins the body. Do not include the curled tail.

Your Pom needs additional room beyond this measurement to move and rest comfortably. Follow the manufacturer’s clearance recommendations for the particular crate.

Measure Standing and Sitting Height

Measure from the floor to the highest point of your Pom’s head or upright ears. Check their sitting height too, as some dogs sit taller than they stand.

Your Pomeranian should be able to hold their head and ears naturally without crouching beneath the roof.

Check Width and Turning Room

A long crate can still be too narrow. Your Pom must be able to turn around easily and lie comfortably in a natural position.

Where possible, check the fit in person before buying.

Compare the Crate’s Internal Dimensions

Internal dimensions tell you how much space your dog can actually use. Outside measurements may include thick walls, handles or other features that do not contribute to room inside.

Remember to allow for bedding, which reduces the available headroom. Also check that the doorway lets your Pomeranian enter and leave comfortably.

What to check	What your Pomeranian needs
Internal length	Room to stand and lie comfortably without being pressed against the ends.
Internal height	Room to stand and sit naturally with their head and ears upright.
Internal width	Enough space to turn around and settle comfortably.
Door opening	Comfortable access without squeezing through.
Space with bedding	Sufficient room after the bed or mat is added.

The best dog crate for a Pomeranian is one that fits the dog using it—not simply one advertised for the breed.

Pomeranian Crate Size Chart: Comparing Common Sizes

Once you have measured your Pomeranian, you can compare available crates. You will often see sizes described as 18, 22 or 24 inches. These labels usually refer to the crate’s advertised length—not all three dimensions.

Use the table below as a shopping guide, rather than a guarantee that a particular size will fit your Pom.

Advertised Crate Size	Approximate Length	What to Consider
18-inch crate	46 cm	Check carefully that a smaller Pom has sufficient height, width and resting space.
22-inch crate	56 cm	Compare the internal dimensions with your dog’s measurements and required clearance.
24-inch crate	61 cm	Provides more length, but the height, width and doorway must also suit your Pom.
Larger crate	Varies	May be necessary for a larger individual or a particular crate design. Measure before choosing.

Why the Same Size Label Can Mean a Different Fit

A 24-inch wire crate and a 24-inch plastic crate may offer different amounts of usable space. Sloping walls, thick sides and the shape of the base can affect how comfortably your Pomeranian fits inside.

Manufacturer weight recommendations are useful for checking carrying capacity, but weight alone does not tell you whether your dog has enough room.

Before purchasing a dog crate for your Pomeranian, check:

• The usable internal length, width and height.
• The manufacturer’s recommended clearance around your dog.
• The space remaining after bedding is added.
• The doorway’s height and width.
• Whether the crate suits home use, transport or both.

Choose the model that fits your individual Pom comfortably, rather than relying on a breed list or size label.

Popular Wire Crates for Pomeranian Dogs on Amazon

Choosing the Best Dog Crate for Your Pomeranian

Once you know the dimensions your Pom needs, consider the crate’s construction and how you intend to use it. A crate for resting at home may have different requirements from one used at dog shows or during transport.

Wire Crates

Wire crates offer good visibility and ventilation. Many fold flat for storage, and some include a divider that allows you to adjust the space for a growing puppy.

Check that the bars, door and latches are secure, with no sharp edges or gaps that could trap a paw. The base should sit firmly in place, and any divider must be fitted securely.

A wire crate can be a practical home option, especially when easy cleaning and an adjustable sleeping area are priorities.

Rigid Plastic Crates

Plastic crates have more enclosed sides, which some dogs prefer for resting. Many models separate into sections for cleaning.

Check ventilation and usable internal space carefully. Sloping walls can make the interior smaller than the outside measurements suggest.

If you intend to use a plastic crate for transport, confirm that the particular model meets your transport provider’s requirements before purchasing.

Soft-Sided Crates

A soft-sided Pomeranian crate is lightweight and convenient to carry. It can be useful for a dog who is already comfortable settling in a crate.

However, fabric and mesh can be damaged by chewing or scratching. A soft crate is unsuitable for a Pom who tries to chew through the sides, force the zip or escape.

Do not assume that a soft crate provides protection in a vehicle simply because it is advertised for travel.

Furniture-Style Crates

Furniture-style crates can blend neatly into a room, but appearance should come after your dog’s comfort.

Check ventilation, internal dimensions, door access and ease of cleaning. Decorative panels and thick walls may reduce the space available inside.

Compare the Features That Matter

Crate Type	Main Advantages	What to Check
Wire	Ventilation, visibility and often foldable construction.	Bar spacing, secure latches, base and divider fit.
Rigid plastic	More enclosed sides and a practical shell.	Internal space, ventilation and intended transport use.
Soft-sided	Lightweight and easy to carry.	Suitability for your dog’s behaviour and secure closures.
Furniture-style	Can fit attractively into a living area.	Airflow, usable space, safe construction and cleaning access.

The best crate for your Pomeranian should suit their size, behaviour and intended use. Choose a design that is comfortable for your dog and practical for you to maintain.

What Size Crate for a Pomeranian Puppy?

A Pomeranian puppy needs a crate that fits comfortably now, with a plan for their growth. Do not assume that the smallest available crate is the right choice simply because your puppy is tiny.

They must still have room to stand and sit naturally, turn around and lie down comfortably.

Consider a Crate With a Divider

An adult-sized crate with a securely fitted divider can be a practical option. The divider lets you adjust the usable space as your puppy grows, rather than purchasing several crates.

Ask your breeder about your puppy’s likely adult size, while remembering that growth estimates are not guarantees. Check the fit regularly and move the divider before the space becomes restrictive.

Never reduce the sleeping area so much that your puppy cannot move or rest comfortably.

Support Toilet Training With Regular Breaks

A suitable crate can help you manage your puppy’s sleeping routine, but it does not teach toilet habits by itself. Your puppy still needs frequent toilet opportunities, supervision and rewards for toileting in the right place.

Offer a toilet break after waking, eating and playing, and before settling your puppy in their crate. Adjust the routine to the individual puppy rather than expecting them to follow a rigid timetable.

If accidents occur, review the timing of toilet breaks and the length of confinement. Making the crate smaller is not automatically the answer.

When a Puppy Pen Is More Practical

A puppy pen provides more room for supervised play and a managed space when a sleeping crate alone does not meet your needs.

Where a separate toilet area is necessary, a suitable pen can accommodate clearly separated resting and toileting spaces. Keep the bed away from the toilet area and continue providing opportunities to learn your preferred toilet routine.

Recheck the Fit as Your Puppy Grows

Look at the space available with bedding in place. Your puppy should not need to lower their head, squeeze through the doorway or curl tightly because there is no room to stretch.

For help introducing the crate gradually, read my Pomeranian crate-training guide.

Choosing a Pomeranian Crate for Home and Travel

Before buying a crate for your Pomeranian, decide where and how you will use it. A comfortable resting crate at home is not automatically suitable for car journeys or air transport.

A Crate for Home Use

For home use, prioritise comfortable internal space, ventilation, secure construction and easy cleaning.

Place the crate somewhere your Pom can rest without becoming isolated from everyday family life. Avoid direct sunlight, heaters and locations where the temperature could become uncomfortable.

Your dog should have opportunities outside the crate for exercise, companionship, toileting and normal daily activities. A crate is a resting space—not a substitute for these needs.

A Crate for Car Travel

For car journeys, check both your dog’s fit inside the crate and how the crate can be secured in your vehicle.

A correctly sized crate does not, by itself, provide crash protection. Look for clear manufacturer instructions about vehicle use and securing the particular model. If a product makes crash-testing claims, check what was tested and how it must be installed.

Do not choose a cramped crate to restrict movement. Your Pomeranian still needs to stand, turn and rest comfortably.

Before travelling, check that:

• The crate is suitable for its intended transport use.
• It is secured according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Doors and fastenings are properly closed.
• Ventilation openings remain unobstructed.
• Your Pom is protected from direct sun and excessive heat.

A Crate for Air Travel

Contact your airline or pet transport provider before purchasing an air-travel crate. Confirm the requirements for your particular journey, including sizing, construction, ventilation, door fittings and any required accessories.

Do not rely solely on an “airline approved” product description. Acceptance depends on the carrier’s requirements and your individual dog’s fit.

Provide accurate measurements and ask your transport provider to confirm the appropriate crate before booking or dispatch.

Introduce the Travel Crate Before the Journey

Give your Pomeranian time to become familiar with the crate at home. Begin with relaxed, positive introductions and gradually build their comfort before attempting a journey.

A familiar crate can make travel preparations easier, but familiarity does not replace correct sizing, secure installation or the transport provider’s requirements.

Common Mistakes When Choosing a Crate for a Pomeranian

A suitable crate should fit your dog, suit its intended use and be easy to maintain. Avoid these common buying mistakes.

Buying by Breed Name Alone

A product listing may recommend a crate for Pomeranians, but individual dogs vary in size. Treat the breed list as a starting point, then check your Pom’s measurements against the usable internal dimensions.

Confusing Length With Overall Size

An advertised “24-inch crate” usually describes its length. It does not mean the crate is also 24 inches wide and high.

Check all three dimensions, along with the doorway, before purchasing.

Forgetting About Bedding

A thick bed can significantly reduce headroom in a small crate. Check that your Pomeranian can stand and sit naturally with their bedding in place.

Choose bedding that fits without bunching up or obstructing the doorway.

Choosing a Smaller Crate to Prevent Accidents

Cramping a puppy is not a solution to toilet-training difficulties. Review their toilet breaks, supervision and time spent confined.

A divider can help adjust a growing puppy’s sleeping area, but they must always have enough room to move and rest comfortably.

Assuming Every Crate Is Suitable for Travel

A carrying handle, folding frame or “portable” label does not establish that a crate is suitable for vehicle restraint or air transport.

Check the manufacturer’s intended use and confirm any requirements with your transport provider.

Ignoring Your Dog’s Behaviour

A soft-sided crate may suit a settled, crate-trained adult but be unsuitable for a puppy who chews fabric or a dog who scratches at doors.

Choose the construction for the dog you have, and introduce it patiently. If your Pom shows distress or repeatedly tries to escape, reassess the setup and training.

Measure carefully, check the details and put your Pomeranian’s comfort ahead

Frequently Asked Questions About Pomeranian Crate Sizes

What size crate for a Pomeranian is best?

The best size depends on your individual Pomeranian’s measurements. Compare common 18-, 22- and 24-inch models, then check their usable internal dimensions. Your Pom must be able to stand and sit naturally, turn around and lie comfortably.

Is an 18-inch crate big enough for a Pomeranian?

It may fit a smaller individual, but the advertised length alone cannot confirm suitability. Check internal height and width, allow for bedding, and make sure your Pom can move and rest comfortably.

Is a 24-inch crate too big for a Pomeranian?

Not necessarily. A 24-inch crate may suit your Pom, depending on its proportions and your dog’s size. For a puppy, a securely fitted divider can help adjust the sleeping area as they grow.

Should I choose a dog crate for my Pomeranian by weight?

Check the manufacturer’s weight limit, but use your dog’s body measurements to assess the fit. Two Pomeranians of similar weight can differ in height and body length.

Can I buy one Pomeranian crate for puppyhood and adulthood?

Possibly. A crate that accommodates your puppy’s expected adult size, with a suitable divider, can provide adjustable space. Recheck the fit regularly because predicted adult size is only an estimate.

Is a wire or plastic crate better for a Pomeranian?

Both can be suitable. Compare ventilation, internal space, security and ease of cleaning. For transport, confirm that the particular model meets the requirements for your journey.

Can I use a soft crate for my Pomeranian?

A soft crate may suit a dog who already settles comfortably and does not chew, scratch or try to escape. It is unsuitable for a Pom who damages fabric or forces the closures.

Can my Pomeranian’s home crate also be used in the car?

Only if the model is suitable for that use and can be secured according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A comfortable home crate does not automatically provide protection during vehicle travel.

How do I know when my puppy needs a bigger crate?

Reassess the fit if your puppy must crouch, struggles to turn or cannot lie comfortably. Check with bedding in place, and enlarge the space before it becomes restrictive.

Remember: Measure your Pomeranian and check the crate’s internal dimensions. A breed recommendation or size label is only a starting point.

Finding the Right Crate for Your Pomeranian

The right crate depends on your Pomeranian’s size and how you plan to use it. Measure your Pom, check the internal dimensions and ensure they can stand, turn and lie comfortably. Choose suitable construction, introduce the crate patiently and recheck the fit as your puppy grows.

Copyright Pomeranian.org. All Rights Reserved.