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What size crate does a Maltese need?

Author

Avery Gonzales

Published Mar 11, 2026

What size crate does a Maltese need?

Size: Small. Energy: Medium. Recommended Crate Size: 22″ dog crate*

What type of crate is best for crate training?

Finding the best crate for your dog is key. “You want to get one that’s durable, comfortable, and flexible with whatever training you’re doing,” says Flayton. For dogs that prefer to sleep in the dark, she recommends kennel or airline crates (which are more enclosed), while wire crates work best for other dogs.

Do soft crates work?

Generally speaking, they also tend to fold flatter than collapsible wire crates. Each of these factors combine to make them a great choice for dog owners who need to frequently set up and break down their crate. A soft crate also works well for home-based situational crating.

What size crate do you need?

One size doesn’t fit all

Dog Crate SizesLength of Crate (Tip: Equal to length of adult dog from nose to tail +2-4 in)Weight
S24″20-30 lbs.
M30″30-40 lbs.
L36″40-70 lbs.
XL42″70-90 lbs.

What is the best crate for a Maltese?

The recommended size for a Maltese is a 24 inch dog crate. It’s one of the smallest sizes you can get for dog crates and some companies don’t even offer sizes that small.

Should I put my 8 week old puppy in a crate at night?

You can move the crate at night, if necessary, to keep him near people. Keep the puppy in the crate except for during playtimes or mealtimes. Take the puppy outside once every hour or so on a leash.

Why crate training is bad?

Crate training does not speed up the housetraining process. Regardless of the training method, puppies do not develop full bladder control until they are about 6 months old. Puppies who repeatedly soil their crates often lose the urge to keep them clean, which prolongs and complicates the housetraining process.

Are plastic crates better than wire?

There is no real winner when it comes to a plastic crate vs wire crate. Many dog owners find themselves having several crates for their pets.

What should I put in my puppy’s crate at night?

Having something like a blanket or a towel in the crate that smells of their mother and littermates can often help them feel secure and so sleep better. Give something to the breeder when you visit the puppies and ask them to keep it in the puppy pen until you bring your puppy home for the first night sleep.

Should I cover all sides of dog crate?

You should aim to cover some but not all of the sides for day use, as your pup shouldn’t feel as if they are totally cut off from you when inside. Leaving at least one side uncovered and facing you or the room is best. Buying a crate cover is a quick and easy way to create the perfect safe space for your puppy.

Should dogs be able to sit in crate?

Dogs need their privacy. The dog should be able to stand up in the crate and turn around, but they should not have much more room than this. Remember we are trying to give the dog a small, safe place to relax that resembles a den, not a play pen.

Is it OK to let puppy cry in crate at night?

“Some puppies can sleep for several hours at night right away!” If your puppy cries in the crate at night, your instinct will be to help him—and that’s the right thing to do. Although sometimes people worry that getting him out of the crate might teach him to cry, that shouldn’t deter you.