Choosing the Right Carrier Size for Your Dog

Getting the size right matters more than almost anything else when choosing a carrier. Too small and your dog cannot turn around comfortably. Too large and they may feel less secure, since most dogs prefer a snug, den-like space.

Start by measuring your dog from nose to tail base for length, then from the floor to the top of their head or ears (whichever is taller) for height, and across their shoulders for width. Add a few centimetres to each measurement for comfortable movement, but avoid adding too much extra space.

If your dog is between sizes, we would usually suggest sizing up slightly for longer journeys and keeping it snugger for short trips, since a close fit helps many dogs feel calmer when the carrier is moving.

Weight limits matter too. Every carrier on our site lists a maximum recommended weight, and it is worth checking this even if your dog looks like they would fit by size alone, since the base and handles need to support them safely.