Pets
Pet cremation urns: sizing and choosing for a dog or cat
The sizing rule for pets is the same as for people — one cubic inch of urn capacity for every pound your pet weighed. The choices after that are about where the urn will sit.
4 min read
Sizing by pet weight
A 12 lb cat needs at least 12 cubic inches; a 70 lb retriever needs at least 70. Most pet urns are sold in 20, 40, 80 and 120 cubic inch capacities, so pick the first size above your pet's weight.
- Cats and small dogs (up to 20 lb): 20–30 cu in
- Medium dogs (20–50 lb): 50–60 cu in
- Large dogs (50–90 lb): 90–110 cu in
- Giant breeds (90 lb+): 120 cu in and above
Materials that suit a home
Stone pet urns are heavy enough that a curious second pet cannot knock them over, and they wipe clean. Hardwood suits a bookshelf and takes a name plate well.
Statues and figurative pieces
Some families prefer a sculpted piece — a resting dog or cat form — over a traditional vase shape. These hold the remains in a sealed base compartment and read as an ornament rather than an urn.
Burying a pet at home
Home burial rules vary by state and municipality, and some areas prohibit it. Check locally first; a sealed stone urn placed in a small vault is the usual approach where it is allowed.
Pet urn size chart
Capacity in cubic inches, and the pet weight each size comfortably holds.
| Pet | Typical weight | Urn capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Cat or toy breed | 5–15 lb | 20 cu in |
| Small dog | 15–25 lb | 30 cu in |
| Medium dog | 25–50 lb | 60 cu in |
| Large dog | 50–90 lb | 110 cu in |
| Giant breed | 90 lb+ | 120 cu in and up |
| Keepsake portion | Any | 3–10 cu in |
Common questions
- What size urn do I need for my dog?
- One cubic inch of capacity per pound of your dog's weight, rounded up to the next available size.
- Can one urn hold two pets?
- Yes, if the combined weights fit the capacity. Add both weights and choose accordingly.
- Do you make pet keepsakes?
- Yes — small keepsake sizes work well for pets, and many families keep one alongside a photo.
- How long does pet cremation take?
- Most private cremations return the remains within one to two weeks, depending on the provider. Order the urn once you have a return date.
- Can a pet urn be engraved with a name?
- Yes — a name and dates on an engraved plate is the most common choice, and it is added before the urn ships.
- Where should I keep my pet's urn?
- A bookshelf, mantel or a spot near where they slept. Stone urns are heavy enough that another pet cannot knock them over.
Sources and further reading
- AVMA — Pet loss and aftercare
Guidance on aftercare decisions and grief support for pet owners.
- Cremation Association of North America
Industry body for cremation statistics and practice standards.
Shop the urns in this guide
Pet urns
For dogs, cats and companions
Statues
Sculpted figurative pieces
Keepsake urns
Small portions
Every urn
Full collection
Not sure what you need? Call (877) 281-0752 or see the size guide.