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How to Measure Your Pet for Their Travel Crate

Getting your pet’s measurements right is one of the most important steps in preparing them for travel. Whether your pet is flying domestically within Australia or travelling internationally, airlines require them to travel in a crate that allows them to stand comfortably, turn around naturally, and lie down in a relaxed position.

This guide will show you exactly how to measure your pet and help determine the correct airline-compliant travel crate size.

Watch How to Measure Your Pet

Sometimes it’s easier to see the process in action. Watch our step-by-step video guide to learn how to accurately measure your pet for their travel crate.

Why Accurate Measurements Matter

A correctly sized crate is essential for both airline compliance and your pet’s comfort.

A properly fitted travel crate helps:

Reduce travel-related stress
Allow natural movement during the journey
Improve comfort and wellbeing
Meet airline animal welfare requirements
Prevent delays on travel day

If a crate is too small, your pet may not be permitted to travel. If it is excessively large, it can also create safety concerns during transport.

How to Measure Your Pet

For the most accurate measurements, place your pet on a flat surface and have them stand naturally beside a wall.

A Quick Tip from Our Team

If your pet is wriggly (and many are!), take several measurements and use the largest result.

A little extra space is always preferable to not having enough room.

Step 1

Position Your Pet

Place your pet standing side-on against a wall on a flat surface.

Try to keep them relaxed and standing naturally.

Step 2

Measure Height (D)

Measure from the ground to the highest point of your pet’s head.

For breeds with upright ears, measure to the tip of the ears.

Step 3

Measure Length (A)

Measure from the tip of your pet’s nose to the base of the tail.

Do not include the tail in this measurement.

Step 4

Measure Front Leg Height (B)

Measure from the ground to the elbow of the front leg.

This measurement is used to calculate the minimum crate length required by airline regulations.

Step 5

Measure Width (C)

Measure across the widest part of your pet’s shoulders.

This ensures your pet has sufficient room to turn around comfortably inside the crate.

Travel Crate Size Calculator

Enter your measurements below to receive an estimated PP travel crate size recommendation.

Required Measurements:

A = Length
B – Legs
C = Width
D = Overall Height

Please note that calculator results are a guide only. Our team will confirm the final crate size before travel.

How Airlines Determine Travel Crate Sizes

Airlines use internationally recognised sizing formulas when determining crate requirements.

Crate Length

Length = A + ½ B

Crate Width

Width = C × 2

Crate Height

Height = D

Every booking is reviewed individually to ensure the selected crate meets airline requirements and provides the safest possible travel environment for your pet.

Before booking your pet’s journey, you may find it useful to learn about All Care Pets Travel Crates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Airlines have specific safety standards for crates?

Yes. Airlines and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) have strict requirements designed to protect the safety and welfare of travelling pets. Learn about All Care Pet Transport Travel Crates.

What if my pet is between crate sizes?

We generally recommend the larger size where airline regulations permit, ensuring maximum comfort throughout the journey.

Can I use my own travel crate?

Our team can assess your crate to ensure it meets airline requirements.

Why do airlines require specific crate measurements?

Airlines have strict animal welfare standards that require pets to be able to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably while travelling.

Do cats need to be measured?

Yes. Although cats often require fewer crate size options than dogs, accurate measurements are still important.

What happens if the crate is too small?

The airline may refuse travel until an appropriately sized crate is supplied.

Can All Care Pet Transport hire a travel crate?

We can hire airline-compliant travel crates for domestic pet travel. We do not supply hire crates internationally. We do allow clients to come into the office for crate fittings to ensure we arrange the correct crate size.

What if I am unsure about my measurements?

Simply send us your measurements and photos of your pet. Our experienced team can review them and recommend the most suitable crate size.