Do you have a Boston Terrier? If so, you know that they are small but powerful dogs. As the owner of two Boston terriers for years, let me inform you that they need plenty of exercise and room to run but do not require that much space inside your home. So, what size crate for Boston Terrier should you get? Let us find out:
For most adult Boston Terriers, 24-inch dog crates are ideal. However, some people prefer a large crate, so the dog has plenty of room to move around, while others choose a small one. Whichever you choose, just make sure the crate is big enough for your furry comrade to stand up and turn around comfortably.
However, choosing the right crate size for your Boston Terrier is not as easy as it sounds. You need to take into account several other things when making a choice. So, let us dig deeper into what the right crate size for your Boston Terrier.
Picking the Right Size for Boston Terrier Crate
Determining the right crate size can be challenging when you begin to search for a dog crate. On top of that, you may fear ending up getting the wrong size crate, which can lead to several issues:
Problems Resulting from a Wrong Size Crate
Here are some issues that may arise upon choosing the wrong size crate for your Boston terrier:
Crate Training Becomes Ineffective
If you have a small dog like a Boston Terrier, you might feel crate training can be very effective in helping them feel secure and comfortable in their own space. However, if the crate is too large, your dog may feel lost and confused, making the crate training process ineffective.
May Develop Separation Anxiety
Some dogs need the sense of a snug, cozy area to feel secure, so a small crate is best for them. If your Boston Terrier feels insecure in their crate, they may start to experience separation anxiety. Some indications include barking and howling when you leave the house, chewing on cage bars, and being disruptive when you are not around.
Increased Risk of Injury
Nonetheless, keep in mind that if your Boston Terrier can move around freely in their crate, they are at an increased risk of injuring themselves. This is especially true if the crate is not properly padded or does not have a solid bottom. Remember to keep them comfortable.
Difficulty Potty Training
If your Boston Terrier is having difficulty using the potty training pads or going outside to relieve themselves, it may be because their crate is too large. A dog that feels like it cannot move around in its crate is less likely to want to use the bathroom in it.
Your Dog May Feel Insecure
You may think that it does not matter what size crate you get for your Boston Terrier, but if the crate is too large, your dog may feel insecure. This is especially true if the crate is too tall. A crate that is too tall can make your dog feel like he is in danger of falling and this can make him very anxious.
Your Dog May Not Use the Bathroom in the Crate
If the crate is too large, your dog may not feel like he needs to use the bathroom in it. This can cause problems if you are trying to potty train your dog or if you are trying to keep him from having accidents in the house.
These were some problems that can arise if you get the wrong size crate for your Boston Terrier. Thus, you should take time to determine the right size for your baby.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Crate Size for Boston Terrier
To pick the right crate size, you should be aware of the following aspects:
Individual Behavior and Personality
Some Boston Terriers are more active, while others are quite content to lounge around the house all day. If your dog is on the more active side, he may need a larger crate to provide enough space to move around and stretch his legs. Conversely, a smaller crate may better suit his needs if your Boston Terrier is more of a couch potato.
Existing and Full-Grown Size
When choosing a crate, it is important to consider both the existing size of your dog and his full-grown size. If a crate is too big for your puppy, it may be too overwhelming and cause him to feel insecure. Conversely, a crate that is too small for an adult dog will be uncomfortable and may restrict his movement. Therefore, another consideration is getting a small crate for a puppy with plans to upgrade to a larger size as it grows.
Simply use tape to measure your dog. If your Boston terrier is still growing, and you wish that he grows into the crate, estimate how big you expect him to grow. If you are unsure, look at comparable dogs or speak to your breeder. They can help estimate the full-grown size of your dog.
The Available Crate Sizes
Once you have discovered your Boston terrier’s existing and full-grown size, find out what crate sizes are available. The most common sizes include a small 24-inch crate, medium 30-inch crate, large 36-inch crate, XL 42-inch crate, and XXL 48-inch crate.
Compare the measurements of your dog with these dimensions. To ensure that your dog can stand up and turn around without hitting the crate sides, allow an additional 5 to 10 cm over the size of your dog.
Also, do not forget to consider what else needs to be put into the crate when taking the measurements. These include water and food bowls, toys, bedding, and cushions.
The Key Breed Characteristics of Your Dog
Boston Terriers are relatively active, so they will need more space than some other small breeds. Some Boston terriers will not lose an opportunity to escape, so choosing a crate with a secure latch is important.
Your Home Environment
If your home is small or an apartment, you may not have the space for a large crate. In this case, you will need to choose a smaller crate that will fit comfortably in your home.
Potential Uses for the Crate
Will you only be using the crate for transportation? Or will it also be used as a place for your dog to sleep and relax? If you plan on using it for both purposes, you must choose a crate that offers sufficient room for your dog to lay down, stand up, and make turns comfortably.
Conclusion
So, what size crate for Boston Terrier? The answer is a 24-inch crate. This should give your dog sufficient room to make movements and allow you to put a bed or some other soft furnishings inside the crate so that he has something comfortable to sleep on. If you are unsure which size crate to buy, our team can help you choose the perfect one for your pet. Thanks for reading!