Use this guide to pick the right Dakota 283 kennel for your dog and vehicle. Every Dakota kennel is a one-piece molded shell made in the USA. They differ in interior space, door style, weight and price. All measurements below come from Dakota 283's published specifications.
How to measure your dog
- Height: with your dog sitting, measure from the floor to the top of the head or ears.
- Length: with your dog standing, measure from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail.
- Compare with the interior: your dog should be able to stand, sit and turn around comfortably. Compare your numbers with the interior dimensions, not the exterior.
- Check your vehicle: measure the cargo area, hatch opening or the space under your tonneau cover, and compare it with the exterior dimensions.
Every Dakota 283 kennel, smallest to largest
Sorted by interior length.
| Kennel | Interior (L x W x H, in) | Exterior (L x W x H, in) | Door (W x H, in) | Weight (lb) | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G3 Small | 20.25 x 14.25 x 18 | 23 x 16 x 18.75 | 9 x 12 | 20.2 | Small breeds; 8 colors |
| T1 Low Profile | 24.8 x 18.75 x 19.5 | 30 x 21.5 x 20 | 16.44 x 16.375 | 25 | Fits under most tonneau covers |
| G3 Medium | 28.5 x 19.8 x 25.2 | 31 x 21.5 x 25.5 | 14 x 20 | 37 | 8 colors |
| 2D Side Entry | 28.9 x 19.6 x 26.25 | 31 x 21.5 x 29.5 | 16.5 x 21.5 | 43 | Front and side doors |
| CRaTE Intermediate | 30.5 x 23.875 x 24.5 | 32.625 x 26.125 x 26.375 | 14 x 19 | 30 | Lighter, lower-cost line |
| Original Kennebec | 31.8 x 20.4 x 22.25 | 35.2 x 23.75 x 24.25 | 16.5 x 21.5 | 36 | Lower profile than G3 Large |
| G3 Large | 33 x 22.8 x 26.2 | 35.2 x 24.5 x 26.5 | 14 x 20 | 46 | Pointers and similar breeds |
| CRaTE Large | 35 x 25 x 26 | 37.125 x 27.5 x 27.625 | 14 x 19 | 35 | Lighter, lower-cost line |
| Hero | 35 x 18.5 x 27.75 | 40.25 x 26 x 30.1 | 13.25 x 21.75 | 54 | Working and K9 dogs; narrow interior |
| G3 X-Large | 36 x 23.75 x 29.25 | 38.5 x 25.5 x 29.5 | 14 x 20 | 59 | 8 colors |
| CRaTE X-Large | 38.75 x 24.75 x 29 | 41 x 27.25 x 30.625 | 14 x 19 | 41 | Shepherds to larger Labs |
Which Dakota kennel should I choose?
Most dogs: the G3 Framed Door Kennel comes in four sizes and eight colors, with a keyed metal-framed door and the widest range of mats, covers and dividers.
Lighter and lower cost: the CRaTE line (Intermediate, Large, X-Large) weighs 7 to 18 lb less than the comparable G3 and is roomier inside, with a door that opens both ways.
Trucks with bed covers: the T1 Low Profile is 20 inches tall outside.
Loading from the side: the 2D Side Entry has a front and a side door.
Strong or escape-prone dogs: the Hero Kennel has small, chew-resistant vent holes and was built for working dogs. Its interior is only 18.5 inches wide, so measure your dog's width.
Low SUV hatches: the Original Kennebec is the same length as the G3 Large but about 2 inches lower and 10 lb lighter.
Frequently asked questions
Should I size up for a puppy?
Many owners buy the size their dog will need as an adult. For G3 Medium, Large and X-Large kennels, the Forever Insert divider shrinks the space while your puppy is small.
Why do the CRaTE and G3 sizes differ?
They're separate designs. The CRaTE Large is longer and wider inside than the G3 Large, for example, so compare interior dimensions rather than size names.
Which kennel is lightest?
The G3 Small at 20.2 lb, then the T1 at 25 lb. Among full-size kennels, the CRaTE Intermediate is lightest at 30 lb.
Still not sure? Call or text a pro at 737-215-3211 with your dog's measurements and your vehicle, and we'll help you choose. You can also read our Dakota 283 vs Ruff Land comparison or shop the full Dakota 283 collection.