Why Crate Size Matters
A crate helps with house training, gives your puppy a safe retreat, and keeps them out of trouble when you can't supervise. But size really matters. A crate that's too big encourages a puppy to potty in one corner and sleep in another — which works against house training. A crate that's too small is simply uncomfortable.
The Rule of Thumb
The crate should be big enough for your puppy to stand up fully, turn around comfortably, and lie down stretched out — and no bigger. That's the sweet spot for house training and comfort.
Use a Divider
The smartest approach is to buy a crate sized for your puppy's expected adult size, then use a movable divider to shrink the space down to fit them right now. As your puppy grows, you slide the divider back to give them more room. This way you buy one crate instead of three, and the space always fits.
Sizing by Expected Adult Size
- Cavapoo (10–18 lbs) — typically a 30-inch crate with a divider
- Mini Bernedoodle (15–35 lbs) — typically a 36-inch crate, up to 42 for the larger end
- When in doubt, size up slightly and use the divider to keep the space appropriate
Crate Training Basics
Make the crate a positive place from day one — feed meals inside it, toss in treats and toys, and never use it as punishment. With patience, most puppies come to see their crate as their own cozy bedroom and choose to rest there on their own.
