Crate Hire
Dogtainers provides airline-approved crates for dogs, cats and all types of pets – sized perfectly for your animal by our 50-year expert team. All crates are IATA-specified and accepted by every domestic and international airline.
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IATA
Approved crates
50+
100K+
Pets transported
All sizes
XS to custom XL
Every
Domestic & intl airline
ABOUT OUR CRATES
Crate information
Dogtainers™ understands that different animals have different needs, which is why we have animal transport crates to suit cats, dogs and many other types of pets. We can also custom-make crates for extra large or unusual animals. All crates used by Dogtainers are IATA-specified, which means they are approved by all domestic and international airlines. See our list of pet-friendly airline partners.
THE PROCESS
How crate hire works
Tell us about your pet
Submit an enquiry with your pet’s breed, age and measurements. Our team will assess what crate size and type is needed for safe, comfortable travel.
We size & select
Following the IATA Live Animal Regulations, we determine the exact crate dimensions your pet needs — including a size up for brachycephalic breeds.
Crate ready for travel
Your correctly-sized, airline-approved crate is prepared and ready. We coordinate delivery or pickup to suit your travel date.
CRATE OPTIONS
Custom & standard crates for all pets
DOGS & CATS
Dog crates and cat crates
Our professionals at Dogtainers will help you select the right crate for your dog or cat so they feel comfortable during travel. Crates come in plastic, wooden or sheet mesh design, with latest IATA specifications and airline approval.
- Plastic, wooden or steel mesh design
- Latest IATA specifications
- Cleaned and sanitised regularly
- Airline approved equipment
EXOTIC & CUSTOM
Crates For Other Animals
Need to transport a more exotic animal, unusual pet, or pedigree? Whether it’s an exotic fish, bird, goat, llama, or pot-belly pig, we can help. We can advise on which pre-built crate is right for your animal or can make a custom-built crate if your pet is extra large, extra small, or particularly unique.
- Custom dimensions to any size
- Species-appropriate materials
- Ventilation to airline standards
- Specialist advice included
SIZING GUIDE
Pet crate sizes
Animals not in correctly-sized crates will be turned away by airline staff. We follow the IATA Live Animal Regulations manual and have been sizing pets for travel for more than 50 years — so you can book with confidence.
Beagle, Cocker Spaniel, Medium Cat
Labrador, Border Collie, Boxer
Golden Retriever, German Shepherd
Great Dane, Irish Wolfhound, Mastiff
SIZEÂ Â Â DIMENSIONSÂ Â Â TYPICAL BREEDS
XS   48 × 32 × 33 cm  Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier
S    61 × 40 × 38 cm  Beagle, Medium Cat
M    76 × 51 × 53 cm  Labrador, Border Collie
L     91 × 61 × 66 cm  Golden Retriever
XL   107 × 74 × 79 cm Great Dane, Mastiff
Bad Fit ✖
Good Fit ✔
HOW TO MEASURE
How to measure your pet
Length — nose to root of tail (tail excluded)
Front leg — floor to elbow joint
Width — at the widest point
Height — floor to top of head or ear tips while standing (whichever is higher)
Brachycephalic breeds (e.g. Bulldogs, Pugs, French Bulldogs) should always be placed one size up for extra ventilation and comfort.
SEE IT IN ACTION
Watch how we prepare a crate
See how our team selects, inspects and prepares an IATA-approved crate so your pet travels safely and comfortably.
CUSTOMER STORIES
We reunited pets & their people
“From the first interaction I had with Dogtainers we felt respected. Our Labrador’s crate was perfectly sized — she arrived happy and stress-free.“
Sarah M.
Sydney → Melbourne
“The team sized the crate perfectly for my Golden Retriever and walked me through everything. The process was completely seamless.“
James R.
Brisbane → New Zealand
“I was worried about the long flight, but knowing the crate was IATA-approved and professionally fitted gave me real peace of mind.“
Linda K.
Perth → London
TRAVEL COMFORT
Blankets & toys in your pet’s carrier
Some airlines have a strict ‘no toys allowed’ rule, while others welcome small soft toys. Hard objects are generally not allowed due to turbulence risk.
If your airline allows it, we recommend a familiar blanket — it can make your pet feel more secure. Not sure what your airline allows? Get in touch and we’ll find out for you.
Please note:Â Customs prevents natural products from travelling. Sheepskin or wool items, pet food, bones and anything metal are all prohibited on flights.
DOCUMENTATION & COMPLIANCE
Other requirements before your pet can fly
We can also look after the import and export documentation, quarantine, vaccinations and all other domestic and international pet transport requirements. You can rely on our extensive experience and network to make your pet travel plans as smooth as possible.
COMMON QUESTIONS
FAQs about crate hire
How do I determine the right crate size?
The right pet crate size is determined based on the breed, age, weight, and dimensions of your pet to ensure they have enough space to move and turn around freely. A good rule of thumb is to have at least 5 cm of clearance between the top of your pet’s head or ears and the crate’s ceiling. Your pet should also be able to lie down comfortably and stand up or turn around without restriction against the pet carrier door.
What are the Regulations for Pet Travel Crates for Flights?
The regulations for pet travel crates can vary depending on the airline and destination. Generally, pet travel crates must be made of sturdy materials, such as two-piece plastic containers held together with metal bolts, one spring-loaded door, and ventilation on the top half of the carrier for proper airflow. In some cases, wooden transport crates may also be allowed. It’s important to check with the airline ahead of time to ensure you have the correct crate size and type, and any required documentation.
How do I make my pet carrier more comfortable during travel?
The best way to make your pet more comfortable during transport is to ensure they are used to being contained within a carrier. It’s recommended to get your pet familiar with the carrier beforehand, so they feel comfortable being inside it. You can do this by placing familiar toys or treats inside the carrier and leaving the carrier open for them to explore. During travel, you can add a small blanket or t-shirt that smells like home to help calm your pet. Please make sure your pet is well-fed and hydrated before the journey.
How to properly secure a pet crate during travel?
Securing your pet crate during travel is crucial to ensure your pet’s safety. If you’re travelling by car, it’s recommended to secure the crate safely in the backseat using a seatbelt looped around the carrier. This will prevent the carrier from sliding or shifting during sudden stops or turns. If you’re travelling by plane, the airline staff will secure the crate for you.
What are the sanitation requirements for pet crates?
Use a high-quality disinfectant, such as F10 Disinfectant, to clean the crate thoroughly. This will help eliminate any harmful bacteria or viruses that may be present, ensuring a safe and healthy sanitised environment for your pet.
How do I acclimatise my pet to the crate before transport?
Acclimating your pet to the crate is essential to help them feel comfortable during travel. Start by choosing the right size crate and introducing your pet to it gradually. Allow them to explore the pet carrier on their own, and reward them with treats and positive reinforcement when they do so. You can also feed your pet inside the carrier to help them associate it with positive experiences. With patience and consistency, your pet should feel comfortable and relaxed inside the crate, making travel less stressful for them.