If you’re bringing home a standard dachshund—or already have one curling up next to you—you’ve probably wondered: what size crate should I get? As a mini dachshund breeder in California who ships nationwide, I’ve worked with both mini and standard dachshund families, and crate sizing is one of the first questions that comes up.

Crates are more than just a tool for potty training. They’re your dachshund’s personal safe space—a cozy den they can relax in and call their own. But choosing the wrong size can make crate training harder, or worse, uncomfortable for your pup.

Let me help you get it right the first time.

Why Crate Training Is Beneficial for Dachshunds

Dachshunds thrive on structure and routine. A properly sized crate offers a safe place to rest, helps with housebreaking, and makes travel and vet visits less stressful.

🛠️ Crates Are Useful For:

  • Potty training: Dogs are less likely to potty where they sleep
  • Preventing destructive behavior while you’re away
  • Safe recovery after surgery or injury (especially important for IVDD-prone breeds)
  • Travel safety in the car or on planes

I had one client in Arizona whose dachshund, Archie, refused to sleep at night—until they introduced a crate. Now he puts himself to bed every night like clockwork.

What Size Crate Does a Standard Dachshund Need?

Most standard dachshunds weigh between 16–32 pounds and have a longer body than most small or medium dogs. The key is to find a crate that allows them to stand up, turn around, and fully stretch out, without being too big that it feels unsafe or den-like.

📏 Ideal Crate Size:

  • Length: 30 inches
  • Width: 19 inches
  • Height: 21 inches

This is the sweet spot for most standard dachshunds, including adults and growing teens.

If your dachshund is still a puppy, you can use a crate with a divider panel so you can adjust the usable space as they grow. This helps with potty training, too—too much space, and they may use a corner as a bathroom.

What to Look for in a Crate for Standard Dachshunds

Aside from size, a few features can make your dachshund’s crate experience even better—for both you and your pup.

✅ Features I Recommend:

  • Low entry height: Easier for long-bodied pups to enter without strain
  • Divider panel: Ideal for growing puppies
  • Secure latch: Dachshunds are smart—they will figure out weak closures
  • Ventilation: Wire crates allow airflow and visibility
  • Removable tray: For easy cleanup
  • Foldability: Makes storage and transport easier

Soft crates are great for travel or calm adult dogs, but not the best for new chewers or active puppies.

My Top 5 Crate Picks for Standard Dachshunds

Here are crates I’ve used personally or that have been breeder-approved by my dachshund families across the country.

🥇 1. MidWest LifeStages 30” Wire Crate

  • Why I Love It: Divider panel, secure latch, removable tray
  • Best For: Puppies and adult dachshunds
  • Bonus: Affordable and folds flat

This is the crate I use for new puppy owners—it grows with your pup and is super easy to clean.

🥈 2. Frisco Fold & Carry 30” Crate (Chewy Exclusive)

  • Why I Love It: Sturdy, budget-friendly, and easy to carry
  • Best For: Homes with limited space
  • Bonus: Great for everyday use

Frisco crates are a Chewy staple, and I’ve sent dozens of puppies home to this exact setup.

🥉 3. Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel

  • Why I Love It: Airline-approved, durable plastic build
  • Best For: Travel or dogs who prefer privacy
  • Bonus: Easy to wipe down, long-lasting

Perfect for dogs that like to feel “tucked in” and cozy while traveling or sleeping.

⭐ 4. EliteField 3-Door Soft Dog Crate

  • Why I Love It: Lightweight, breathable mesh sides
  • Best For: Calm adults or travel setups
  • Bonus: Great for car rides and hotel stays

This is the crate I use for in-car travel when delivering pups out of state.

⭐ 5. Merry Products Wood & Wire Crate

  • Why I Love It: Looks like furniture, functions like a crate
  • Best For: Stylish homes and well-trained adults
  • Bonus: Doubles as an end table

One of my clients has this in their living room, and it blends right in with their home décor while keeping their pup safe.

Tips for Crate Training Your Standard Dachshund

Crate training is about creating a positive association, not confinement. Here are a few tips that have worked well for both my own dogs and the hundreds of pups I’ve sent home.

🐶 Make Crate Time Positive:

  • Use treats and toys to encourage going in
  • Feed meals inside the crate to build good associations
  • Start with short sessions and slowly build up time
  • Never use the crate as punishment

If your dachshund barks or whines at first, don’t give in right away. Consistency is key, and soon they’ll see it as their personal cozy space.

How We Crate Train Our Puppies Before They Go Home

In our program, crate exposure begins at 7–8 weeks old. By the time our pups are ready to go to their new homes, they’ve already:

  • Slept in soft crates
  • Experienced quiet crate time with toys
  • Taken short car rides in travel crates
  • Learned that crates = comfort

We include crate tips and suggestions in every go-home packet and offer guidance based on your home layout and lifestyle.

One of our recent pups, Coco, went to a home in Oregon. Her family was worried about crate anxiety. But because she was already used to short, cozy crate sessions, she transitioned beautifully with no crying her first night home!

Final Thoughts

The right crate size can make all the difference in how your dachshund adjusts to their new space, feels safe, and stays healthy. For a standard dachshund, a crate that’s around 30” long and 19” wide is a great fit—and having the right features will make both your life and your pup’s life a lot easier.

Need help choosing the right crate based on your home or your dog’s age? I’ve got plenty of experience fitting crates for every kind of dachshund personality.

👉 Visit Our Online Pet Shop to see available puppies or message me directly for gear recommendations—I’m happy to help set your home up for success! 🐾📦