Measure your dog kennel correctly: What size does my dog really need?

Many dogs in Switzerland spend part of the day in a dog kennel - in the garden of single-family homes, on alpine pastures, on farms or with hobby pet owners. However, a kennel that is too small or unfavorably sized can lead to stress, joint problems and a poor climate inside. Conversely, an oversized dog kennel is difficult to keep warm in winter and offers the dog little security. The right size of dog kennel is therefore crucial for well-being, health and safety. If you measure systematically, taking into account the dog's build, use, location and Swiss animal welfare regulations, you will quickly find out which dimensions really make sense for your dog.

Why the right dog kennel size is so important

The right size dog kennel has a direct impact on the dog's well-being. A kennel that is too small restricts movement, makes it difficult to stand up and lie down and can put a strain on the joints in the long term. Especially for large or older dogs with osteoarthritis, sufficient space is crucial for a gentle lying position. Dog houses that are too large, on the other hand, feel draughty and cold in winter because the dog can hardly use its body heat to bring the interior to a comfortable temperature.

In Switzerland, there are also climatic differences: in higher-lying communities, temperatures are significantly lower in winter than on the Central Plateau. A well-adapted dog kennel helps to compensate for these fluctuations. At the same time, responsible dog ownership is based on the Animal Welfare Ordinance (TSchV) and cantonal regulations that define minimum requirements for accommodation and weather protection. The size of the dog kennel is an important basis for other aspects such as insulation, bedding and ventilation to be effective.

How to measure the dog correctly to size the dog kennel?

Which dimensions are important for the dog kennel?

In order to measure the dog kennel correctly, some body measurements are particularly relevant. In practice, shoulder height, body length, chest width and head height are particularly useful. Especially for Swiss breeds such as the Appenzeller, Entlebucher or Bernese Mountain Dog, but also for farm dogs and mixed breeds, a standardized measuring method helps to avoid misunderstandings when buying or building a dog kennel.

Practical step-by-step method for measuring the dog

For accurate measurements, the dog should ideally be standing still on level ground, for example on slabs in the garden or on a stable wooden platform in the stable. A second person, such as a family member or farm helper, can gently hold the dog while measurements are taken. A flexible tailor or construction measuring tape makes it easier to apply to the body. With very active or anxious dogs, it can be useful to take several short breaks between measurements instead of forcing everything at once.

Which kennel size suits which dogs?

Manufacturers of dog kennels often offer standard sizes such as S, M, L or are based on well-known dog breeds. For Swiss animal lovers and farmers, however, it makes sense to compare the individual dimensions with such size recommendations. Farm and herd protection dogs, mixed breeds from animal welfare organizations or heavily muscled working dogs in particular often deviate from average sizes.

The values in the table are intended as a rough guide. Of particular importance is whether the dog can lie comfortably sideways inside the kennel and stretch out fully. For long-legged, slender dogs, the interior height tends to be slightly higher, while compact, short-legged breeds tend to benefit from a well-insulated, slightly smaller dog kennel. For large breed puppies, it is worth planning ahead so that the kennel will still fit when they are fully grown.

Calculate the internal height, internal length and internal width

As a practical rule of thumb, the inside height of the dog kennel should be around 1.1-1.3 times the shoulder height. This allows the dog to hold its head naturally when standing without touching the ceiling. The inside length can be set at approx. 1.2-1.4 times the body length, making it possible to lie both curled up and stretched out. For rather narrow dogs, an inner width of around 0.8-1.0 times the body length is sufficient, while stronger breeds should be in the range of 1.0-1.1 times.

It is important that these factor values remain deliberately flexible. In very cold regions, such as alpine communities, a slightly more compact kennel may be appropriate as long as the dog is not cramped. In mild climates or for dogs with very thick fur that like to lie stretched out, the kennel may be a little more spacious. The right dog kennel size is therefore determined by the interplay of body size, climate and everyday use.

How do location, climate and use influence the right dog kennel?

Garden, farm or alp - where is the dog kennel located?

In Switzerland, dog kennels are often located in the gardens of detached houses, on farms next to stables or on pastures where guard dogs watch over sheep and goats. The size and construction requirements vary depending on the location. In sheltered city gardens or densely built-up residential areas, the dog kennel is often more of a place of retreat and protection from the sun or rain for shorter stays. On agricultural land, on the other hand, it can serve as the main shelter for hours on end or in bad weather.

If the dog kennel is standing freely on a meadow, wind protection and stable fixation are important. A slightly more compact size can help to keep the inside temperature at a comfortable level using the dog's body heat. In sheltered courtyard areas or near a barn, the dog house can be somewhat larger, as additional buildings break up wind and precipitation. In any case, it is important to ensure that the dog kennel is not permanently in the blazing sun to avoid overheating in summer.

Consider the Swiss climate, coat type and length of stay

The climate in the various cantons ranges from comparatively mild in Ticino to harsher winter conditions in Graubünden or the Bernese Oberland. Dogs with a thick undercoat such as Bernese mountain dogs, Swiss hounds or guard dogs cope better with low temperatures than short-haired companion dogs. For the latter, a well-insulated and smaller kennel is recommended for longer outdoor stays to limit heat loss.

The length of stay also plays a role: if the dog only uses the kennel during the day as a retreat in the garden, minor deviations from the ideal internal dimensions are usually not critical. However, if the dog regularly stays in the kennel for several hours or nights, it becomes increasingly important that the dimensions are exactly right to ensure both freedom of movement and a good climate inside. If climatic conditions are uncertain, it makes sense to also plan an alternative place protected from the weather, for example in the utility room, stable or hallway.

Plan the entrance height, door opening and lying area

In addition to the interior space, the entrance opening and floor height also influence how well the dog kennel fits the dog in question. A slightly raised floor protects against moisture and ground cold, especially in regions with a lot of precipitation or snow. The entrance height should be about the same height as the dog's chest and generally no higher than about half shoulder height. This allows the dog to enter without jumping, which is easy on the joints and spine.

The width of the opening is based on the width of the chest plus a safety margin so that the dog does not bump against the side. For dogs that prefer a slight curve when entering, a slightly larger opening may be appropriate. In the interior, it has proven useful to provide a clearly defined, flat lying area that is the same length as the calculated interior length or slightly less. Additional space can be used as a small "pre-zone" in front of the lying area, for example for placing paws or as a turning area.

Planning and selection: Measure, buy or build your own dog kennel?

Procedure in clear steps from measurement to the right kennel

1. 1 First determine all the important body measurements of the dog: Shoulder height, body length, chest width and head height.
2. 2 Calculate the interior height, interior length and interior width using the orientation factors and compare them with the location, climate and duration of use.
3. 3 Check which standard sizes of dog kennels on the market come as close as possible to the calculated internal dimensions, including door opening and floor height.
4. 4 If the dimensions are very different or if there are special requirements (e.g. two dogs, medical restrictions), consider building the kennel yourself or finding a customized solution.
5. 5 After setting up the dog kennel, check how the dog moves, stands and lies in it and, if necessary, make small adjustments to the bedding, lying surface or entrance.

Special features for young, old and multiple dogs

Growing young dogs change their body proportions significantly within a few months. If you are planning a kennel for a puppy or pubescent dog, it is therefore better to base your decision on the expected final dimensions of the breed and on information from breeders, vets or animal welfare organizations. At the same time, the kennel should not be so large during the growing phase that the young dog freezes in cold weather. An interim solution or flexibly adaptable interior can help.

Senior dogs or animals with orthopaedic problems need an environment that is particularly easy on the joints. A sufficiently large dog kennel with a non-slip, softly padded lying surface and a low entrance edge makes access easier for them. Owners of two or more dogs must also decide whether it makes sense to share a kennel or whether each female and male dog should have their own retreat. When keeping multiple dogs together, a larger area is required so that all animals can lie comfortably at the same time without crowding each other.

Frequently asked questions about the right size dog kennel