When I first got a dog house for my German Shepherd, I went with the bigger is better mindset. I thought giving him extra space would make it more comfortable. Instead, I ended up with a house that looked like a mini shed sitting in the backyard. The funny part is that my Shepherd would sniff around, peek inside, and then curl up right outside of it on the grass.
At first, I figured he just didn’t like being in a house. But when winter rolled in, I realized the real problem, the oversized house didn’t keep him warm. Dogs naturally like cozy, den-like spaces. A house that’s too big won’t trap their body heat, and one that’s too small will feel cramped.
That’s when I came across my first dog house dimensions chart. Seeing the measurements broken down in dog house sizes in meters, cm, and inches helped me understand what went wrong.
Once I downsized to a house that actually matched his size, the change was immediate. He started using it daily, whether it was hot, cold, or just for a nap after playtime. That’s when I realized choosing the right size isn’t just about comfort; it’s about making sure your dog actually wants to use the house.
Table of Contents
Dog Kennel Sizes Chart
Dog kennels and dog houses often get lumped together, but they’re not quite the same. A kennel usually refers to a larger, sometimes enclosed structure that can house one or multiple dogs for longer periods.
They’re often made of chain link or metal with a covered section for shelter. When choosing a kennel, size is even more critical. Too small, and your dog will feel stressed and confined. Too big, and it may not provide enough shelter or warmth.
A good dog kennel sizes chart gives you exact guidance on what dimensions are suitable for small, medium, and large breeds.
Most charts list sizes in multiple units, dog house sizes in cm, dog house sizes in meters, and dog house sizes in inches, because not everyone measures the same way. If you’re buying online, this is especially helpful. You can double-check against your dog’s measurements and avoid the hassle of returning something that doesn’t fit.
| Kennel Size | Dimensions (L × W × H cm) | Dog Weight | Breeds Example |
| Small | 61 × 46 × 48 cm | Up to 25 lbs | Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Shih Tzu, Toy Poodle, Yorkshire Terrier, Maltese |
| Medium | 76 × 53 × 56 cm | 26-50 lbs | Beagle, Cocker Spaniel, French Bulldog, Boston Terrier, Sheltie, Miniature Schnauzer |
| Intermediate | 81 × 56 × 58 cm | 51-70 lbs | Bulldog, Border Collie, Australian Shepherd, Basset Hound, Whippet |
| Large | 91 × 61 × 66 cm | 71-90 lbs | Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Dalmatian, Boxer, Vizsla |
| Extra Large | 107 × 71 × 76 cm | 91-110 lbs | German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Doberman Pinscher, Belgian Malinois |
| Giant | 122 × 76 × 84 cm | 111+ lbs | Great Dane, Saint Bernard, Mastiff, Irish Wolfhound, Newfoundland, Leonberger |
Dog House Dimensions by Breed
Not all breeds age, grow, or live in the same way, and the same goes for their housing needs. A Dachshund doesn’t need the same space as a Husky, and a Beagle won’t be comfortable in a house designed for a Saint Bernard.
That’s why using a dog house dimensions chart by breed is so helpful. For small breeds, the house should be snug and cozy, just big enough for them to curl up inside. Medium breeds need a little more length and height so they can turn around comfortably. Large and giant breeds need sturdier houses with thicker walls and a wider entrance.
The mistake most owners make is overestimating. For example, a Labrador doesn’t need a kennel the size of a shed. They need something proportioned to their body with just enough extra room. That’s where the exact breakdown in dog house sizes in meters, cm, and inches makes a big difference.
| Breed | House Size | Dimensions (L × W × H cm) |
| Chihuahua | Small | 60 × 45 × 45 cm |
| Pomeranian | Small | 60 × 45 × 45 cm |
| Toy Poodle | Small | 60 × 45 × 45 cm |
| Maltese | Small | 60 × 45 × 45 cm |
| Beagle | Medium | 75 × 55 × 60 cm |
| French Bulldog | Medium | 75 × 55 × 60 cm |
| Cocker Spaniel | Medium | 75 × 55 × 60 cm |
| Boston Terrier | Medium | 75 × 55 × 60 cm |
| Border Collie | Medium/Large | 90 × 65 × 70 cm |
| Bulldog | Medium/Large | 90 × 65 × 70 cm |
| Basset Hound | Medium/Large | 90 × 65 × 70 cm |
| Whippet | Medium/Large | 90 × 65 × 70 cm |
| Labrador Retriever | Large | 110 × 75 × 85 cm |
| Golden Retriever | Large | 110 × 75 × 85 cm |
| Boxer | Large | 110 × 75 × 85 cm |
| Dalmatian | Large | 110 × 75 × 85 cm |
| German Shepherd | Extra Large | 120 × 80 × 90 cm |
| Rottweiler | Extra Large | 120 × 80 × 90 cm |
| Doberman | Extra Large | 120 × 80 × 90 cm |
| Belgian Malinois | Extra Large | 120 × 80 × 90 cm |
| Great Dane | Giant | 135 × 100 × 110 cm |
| Saint Bernard | Giant | 135 × 100 × 110 cm |
| Mastiff | Giant | 135 × 100 × 110 cm |
| Leonberger | Giant | 135 × 100 × 110 cm |
| Irish Wolfhound | Giant | 135 × 100 × 110 cm |
Large Dog House Sizes Chart
Big dogs like German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, and Huskies need space, but it has to be balanced. If the house is too tight, they won’t use it. If it’s too big, it won’t retain warmth in colder months. A large dog house sizes chart solves that problem by showing you the sweet spot for different large breeds.
For large dogs, here are some general rules:
- Entrance height should be just a couple of inches taller than your dog’s shoulder height.
- The interior length should be about 25% longer than your dog’s body length.
- Width should allow them to comfortably turn around without bumping the sides.
When you check charts that convert these measurements into dog house sizes in cm, meters, and inches, it becomes much easier to buy the right one online or build one yourself.
| Breed Examples | Dimensions (L × W × H cm) |
| Labrador Retriever | 110 × 75 × 85 cm |
| Golden Retriever | 110 × 75 × 85 cm |
| German Shepherd | 120 × 80 × 90 cm |
| Rottweiler | 120 × 80 × 90 cm |
| Boxer | 110 × 75 × 85 cm |
| Dalmatian | 110 × 75 × 85 cm |
| Doberman | 120 × 80 × 90 cm |
| Belgian Malinois | 120 × 80 × 90 cm |
Small Dog House Sizes Chart
Smaller breeds like Chihuahuas, Yorkies, and French Bulldogs benefit from tighter, cozier houses. Unlike big dogs that need room to stretch, small dogs like the security of being tucked away. That’s why a small dog house sizes chart is important, it prevents you from accidentally buying something too big.
A Chihuahua in a house made for a Beagle will never stay warm enough. On the other hand, the right-sized house gives them a sense of safety and comfort. When you see the measurements clearly laid out in dog house sizes in inches, cm, and meters, you’ll know exactly what to look for in pet stores or online listings.
| Breed Examples | Dimensions (L × W × H cm) |
| Chihuahua | 60 × 45 × 45 cm |
| Pomeranian | 60 × 45 × 50 cm |
| Shih Tzu | 65 × 50 × 50 cm |
| Dachshund | 70 × 50 × 55 cm |
| Toy Poodle | 60 × 45 × 45 cm |
| Yorkshire Terrier | 60 × 45 × 45 cm |
| Maltese | 60 × 45 × 50 cm |
Igloo Dog House Size Chart
Igloo-style dog houses are a little different. Their rounded design makes them more insulated, and the tunnel-like entrance blocks wind and rain. But because of their shape, sizing can be tricky. That’s where an igloo dog house size chart comes in handy.
Many owners assume igloos run big because of their wide openings, but the inside may be smaller than expected. Checking the exact dimensions in dog house sizes in cm, meters, and inches ensures your dog won’t feel cramped. These are especially popular for colder climates, so sizing them right means your dog stays warm and actually uses it.
| Size | Dimensions (L × W × H cm) | Weight Capacity (lbs) | Suitable Breeds |
| Small | 66 × 60 × 48 cm | Up to 25 lbs | Chihuahua, Maltese, Pomeranian, Shih Tzu, Toy Poodle |
| Medium | 95 × 78 × 66 cm | 26-50 lbs | Beagle, Cocker Spaniel, French Bulldog, Boston Terrier, Sheltie |
| Large | 114 × 86 × 79 cm | 51-90 lbs | Labrador, Bulldog, Dalmatian, Boxer, Border Collie |
| X-Large | 122 × 89 × 89 cm | 91-125 lbs | German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Doberman, Belgian Malinois |
| Giant | 136 × 100 × 100 cm | 126-175 lbs | Great Dane, Saint Bernard, Irish Wolfhound, Mastiff, Newfoundland, Leonberger |
How to Measure Your Dog for the Right House
Charts are great, but nothing replaces measuring your dog directly. Here’s how to do it:
- Height: Measure from the ground to the top of their head or ears (whichever is taller).
- Length: From the tip of the nose to the base of the tail.
- Width: Across the widest part of their shoulders.
Once you’ve got those numbers, add about 25% to find the ideal house size. That’s where a dog house dimensions chart helps you double-check your calculations against standard house sizes.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Dog House Sizing
Where the dog house will sit makes a difference in the size you choose.
Indoor houses: These can be smaller since they’re mainly used as a cozy den. Comfort matters more than insulation.
Outdoor houses: Size matters for climate control. In cold areas, slightly smaller houses help trap heat. In hot areas, slightly bigger houses with ventilation keep airflow moving.
Charts that list dog house sizes in meters, cm, and inches can guide you for both indoor and outdoor setups.
Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Dog House Sizes
Even with charts, owners make some common errors:
- Buying based on looks instead of measurements.
- Forgetting to measure their dog’s full height (especially tall ears or tails).
- Choosing roomy houses that end up too drafty.
- Ignoring breed tendencies (e.g., Huskies prefer snug dens, while Retrievers like more room).
That’s why checking more than one dog house dimensions chart and cross-referencing measurements is always smart.
Also read: Dogs Size Guide
FAQs
How do I pick the right size dog house?
Start by measuring your dog’s height, length, and width. Then check those numbers against a dog house dimensions chart. Always make sure the house is about 25% larger than your dog’s body length and height. This ensures they can move comfortably without the space feeling too big.
Do I need to size differently for indoor vs outdoor houses?
Yes. Indoor dog houses can be smaller since insulation isn’t as important. Outdoor houses need to be carefully matched to climate, slightly smaller for cold areas and slightly bigger for hot regions. Checking dog house sizes in cm, meters, and inches helps you adjust based on where the house will be placed.
Should I size up if my dog is still growing?
If your dog is a puppy, yes, size up. But don’t go to the extreme. For example, if you have a German Shepherd puppy, buy a medium house that will suit them for a few months, then move to a large size once they’re grown. Relying on a dog house sizes in inches chart is helpful for estimating adult dimensions.
Why won’t my dog use the house I bought?
It’s often because of size. If the house is too big, it feels drafty and doesn’t hold warmth. If it’s too small, they feel cramped. Using a proper dog house dimensions chart ensures the fit is right, which is the main reason dogs reject houses.
Is an igloo dog house sized the same as a wooden house?
Not exactly. Igloos are shaped differently, so the interior space doesn’t match the outer dimensions. That’s why checking an igloo dog house size chart is crucial. Comparing measurements in dog house sizes in cm, meters, and inches will prevent you from buying something that looks big on the outside but feels small on the inside.