Diggs Revol Dog Crate (Small/Medium)
Beautifully designed crate that looks like furniture. Diamond mesh, puppy divider included, and ceiling hatch for top-loading.
Chow Chow at a Glance
Size
medium
Weight
45-70 lbs
Energy
low
Coat
thick rough double coat
Common Health Concerns
Why Dog Crates Matter for Your Chow Chow
I've spent years working with Chow Chow dogs -- first at the clinic in Portland, then through the shelter, and now testing products with my own two dogs at home. The Chow Chow is dignified and serious, with a moderate build at 45-70 lbs and laid-back temperament. Picking the wrong dog crate for this breed means wasted money and a frustrated dog (I've seen it happen more times than I can count). Here's what I've learned actually works.
Crate training a Chow Chow works with their dignified nature, and their calmer disposition means they usually take to crate training naturally. The crate needs to fit a full-grown Chow Chow (45-70 lbs) -- enough room to stand, turn, and stretch out. Even at their size, build quality matters for safety and longevity.
Medium-Breed Sizing for Chow Chow (45-70 lbs)
Medium dogs need 36-inch crates. Wire crates are most versatile. For puppies, get an adult-sized crate with a divider panel.
The Chow Chow at 45-70 lbs sits in the versatile medium range, which gives you the widest selection. The key is matching to your specific dog's build -- a muscular, stocky Chow Chow has different needs than a leaner one, even at the same weight. When in doubt, I size up rather than down.
Matching Dog Crates to Your Chow Chow's Low-Energy Lifestyle
Low-energy dogs take to crates easily. A standard wire crate with a cozy bed inside works perfectly.
Lower-energy breeds like the Chow Chow spend more time resting than playing, which shifts your priorities. Comfort and quality become more important than extreme durability. That said, "low energy" doesn't mean "no energy" -- your Chow Chow still has active moments and deserves products that are well-made and safe.
Health Concerns That Affect Dog Crate Choice
The Chow Chow is predisposed to certain health conditions that should directly influence your dog crates choices. I saw these conditions constantly during my years at the clinic, and shopping with them in mind is one of the most impactful things you can do as an owner.
Hip Dysplasia:
Add a proper orthopedic crate mat to support joints during rest. Make sure the crate is large enough for easy position changes -- cramped sleeping positions make joint issues worse.
Bloat:
Bloat-prone breeds need careful attention to meal timing and post-meal activity. Factor this into your daily routine.
What to Look For: A Chow Chow Buyer's Checklist
When I'm comparing dog crates for a Chow Chow, these are the factors I weigh most heavily -- ranked by importance for this breed:
Size Appropriateness
The Chow Chow at 45-70 lbs needs products sized for their medium frame. I only recommend options available in the correct size range -- "close enough" doesn't cut it.
Durability
The Chow Chow is gentle enough that extreme durability isn't the top priority, but quality construction still matters for longevity and safety.
Portability
I evaluate this factor specifically for Chow Chow dogs, accounting for their medium size, low energy level, and thick rough double coat.
Ventilation
I evaluate this factor specifically for Chow Chow dogs, accounting for their medium size, low energy level, and thick rough double coat.
Ease Of Cleaning
Practicality matters more than most people think. Double-coated breeds shed heavily, and easy-wash products will save your sanity. I prioritize machine-washable options.
Sarah's Tips for Chow Chow Owners
Account for shedding.
The Chow Chow's thick rough double coat sheds seasonally (and usually year-round -- Maple's fur is on everything I own). Any dog crate touching their body will collect fur. Choose products with removable, washable components.
Read reviews from other Chow Chow owners.
Generic reviews tell you about the product. Reviews from Chow Chow owners tell you about the product *with your breed*. Filter Amazon reviews by searching "Chow Chow" -- it's the closest thing to breed-specific testing data you'll find.
Our Recommendations
Top 5 Picks for Chow Chow
5 products reviewed
Diggs Revol Dog Crate (Small/Medium)
Beautifully designed crate that looks like furniture. Diamond mesh, puppy divider included, and ceiling hatch for top-loading.
MidWest iCrate (48-inch, XL)
Full 48-inch crate for dogs up to 110 lbs. Same trusted design with double doors and divider panel.
MidWest Folding Metal Exercise Pen
Portable 8-panel exercise pen that sets up in seconds. Perfect for hotel rooms and campsites. Folds flat for transport.
Sherpa Original Deluxe Carrier
Airline-approved carrier with mesh ventilation on all sides. Spring wire frame allows it to fit under most seats.
MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Pan
The iCrate has been the go-to recommendation from trainers for years, and after testing it ourselves, we understand why. The double-door design gives you placement flexibility, the divider panel grows with your puppy, and the fold-flat design makes it genuinely portable.
Health Considerations
Chow Chow dogs are known to be prone to hip dysplasia, eye problems, bloat. When choosing dog crates, keep these health concerns in mind. Joint support is particularly important for this breed, so look for products that provide orthopedic benefits or promote joint health.
Keep Exploring
More Guides for Chow Chow
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best dog crate for a Chow Chow?
The best dog crate for a Chow Chow should account for their medium size (45-70 lbs), low energy level, and dignified, serious, bright temperament. We recommend checking our top picks above, which we have selected based on these breed-specific factors.
How much should I spend on dog crates for my Chow Chow?
Quality dog crates for Chow Chow dogs typically range from $15 to $80+ depending on the specific product. We recommend investing in quality products that will last, especially for your dog's specific needs.
Are there specific dog crates to avoid for Chow Chow dogs?
Avoid generic, one-size-fits-all products that don't account for Chow Chow's specific medium build and low energy needs. Always choose size-appropriate products.
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