Ever wonder if your dog’s crate is a cozy den or just a metal box? Many dog owners face this exact puzzle. Choosing the perfect crate can feel overwhelming. You see wire ones, plastic ones, soft-sided ones—each promising to be the best. It’s tough to know which one truly fits your furry friend’s needs, your living space, and your training goals.
A crate that is too small causes stress, and one that is too big invites accidents. The wrong choice can derail potty training and create anxiety instead of comfort. We understand that feeling of wanting the absolute best for your companion. That is why this guide dives deep into the world of dog crates.
Inside, you will learn how to match crate types to your dog’s personality and size. We break down the pros and cons of every popular style. By the end of this post, you will feel confident selecting a crate that becomes your dog’s safe, happy space. Let’s explore how to find that perfect home-within-a-home for your beloved pet!
Top Dog Crates Recommendations
- 30-inch dog crate for pets under 26 x 17 inches (LxH), like a Beagle, Dachshund, Shih Tzu, or Chihuahua
- Durable metal wire construction with manual door locking mechanism for secure containment
- Sets up quickly and folds down flat for easy transport or compact storage; top handle for comfortable carrying
- 1 door and a divider for adjusting the internal space
- Removable plastic base tray for easy cleaning
- Newly enhanced with added security features to keep your pet safe | Slide-bolt door latches now feature patented Paw Block and locking tips to create a safer, more secure home for your pet
- iCrate single door dog crate measures 36.6 x 21.9 x 24.5 inches and is suitable for intermediate dog breeds with an adult weight of 40 to 70 pounds. If your dog’s weight or measurements are on the higher side for this crate, we recommend buying the next crate size up
- Dog crate includes a divider panel, durable & leak-proof plastic pan, protective rubber feet, carrying handle, and customer support team based in Indiana
- Easy to assemble & portable | Dog crate sets up in seconds with no tools required and conveniently folds flat for travel
- Durable & strong, quality construction creates a secure place for your dog to fulfill their natural instinct to den. Proper ventilation, large door openings with low thresholds, and rounded corner clips make iCrate a safer crate experience for your dog
- 【Furniture-Grade Design for Your Home】 Tired of metal cages ruining your decor? This wooden crate serves dual duty as a sturdy TV stand or end table. It blends seamlessly into your living room while providing a cozy den for your pet.
- 【Dual-Side Doors & Double Lock for Effortless Use】 Worried about placement? Both left and right doors open 180°, offering easy access even when placed against a wall. The dual-lock system provides ultimate security, giving you peace of mind when you're away.
- 【Adjustable Divided Space for 1 or 2 Dogs】 Need flexibility? The removable partition lets you create one spacious suite for a large breed or two separate rooms for harmony. It's the perfect solution for multi-pet households or growing puppies.
- 【Heavy-Duty & Pet-Safe Construction】 Concerned about durability? Features a reinforced metal frame (tested for stability), scratch-resistant melamine surface, and rounded bars for your pet's safety. Built to last for active large breeds.
- 【Hassle-Free Assembly】Our kennel features clearly labeled parts and intuitive instructions for straightforward setup. Designed for simplicity, it helps you quickly create a comfortable space for your pet without complications.
- IDEAL FOR 21-40 LB DOGS: Measures 30.5 x 19.25 x 21.5 inches – perfect for French Bulldogs, Welsh Terriers, Dachshunds & similar breeds. For dogs near 40 lbs, consider sizing up to our 36-inch model so they have plenty of room to get comfortable.
- WE DON'T CUT CORNERS, WE PERFECT THEM: Precision welding, rounded corner clips & slide-bolt latch with Paw Block mitigate snags, cuts & escapes. With rigorous safety testing, iCrate provides peace of mind knowing your dog is safe while you're away.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Sturdy metal wire design with a protective black e-coat finish, the iCrate resists rust and everyday wear. Complete with leak-proof tray, rubber feet, carry handle, and tool-free assembly, it's ready for years of use.
- SUPPORTS CRATE TRAINING: A divider panel lets the crate grow with your dog, from puppy kennel to full-size crate. Large openings and low thresholds ease the crate training process and help your dog feel more at home.
- LIFE GOES BETTER WITH PETS: A family-owned business based in Indiana, MidWest Homes for Pets brings over 100 years of pet product expertise and a commitment to quality, rigorous safety testing, and excellent US-based customer service.
- 36-inch dog crate for pets under 32 x 21 inches (LxH), like a Corgi, Brittany, Cocker Spaniel, or French Bulldog
- Durable metal wire construction with manual door locking mechanism for secure containment. Sets up quickly and folds down flat for easy transport or compact storage; top handle for comfortable carrying. 1 door and a divider for adjusting the internal space
- Removable plastic base tray for easy cleaning. Metal hook at the bottom of the crate to prevent plastic tray from moving out. Please lock the hook well after installing the tray every time in daily use.
- Product Dimensions: 36 x 23 x 25 inches (LxWxH)
- Please read all safety instructions prior to use. Note: Your dog should be able to stand up and turn around comfortably while in the crate. Measure from nose to base of tail when standing, and from top of head to floor. Add 4 inches to those measurements to confirm optimal crate height and length.
- 【SAFE AND DURABLE】 The kennel is designed with rounded corners to eliminate sharp edges, prevent injuries caused by collisions and scratches, and reduce sharp points to protect the floor, ensure a safe use for you and your pet. And the durable metal wire construction with protective, long-lasting black coat finish, is good for pet trainning, resting and playing.
- 【DOUBLE-DOOR DESIGN】 Two-door access provides front and side door access for proper ventilation and interaction with you. Large door opening and low threshold, allows your pet easily enter and exit the crate. Each door comes with a heavy-duty sliding bolt latch to securely lock it in place to keep your pet safe.
- 【EASY TO CLEAN】 The crate bottom comes with a plastic removable tray that features a deep lip design to prevent overflow, that will not stain, warp, corrode or retain pet odors, you can cover the pad or wipe off pet's feces, and just slide it out when you need to clean. Meanwhile, the whole cage can also be cleaned by wiping to saving you time.
- 【FOLDABLE & PORTABLE】 The crate with collapsible design that conveniently folds into a flat less than 3" thick, can be assembled quickly, also with the rust-resistant finish makes it be an ideal choice for home and travel, it's easy to store and transport, comes with the attachable carrying handle strong and reliable.
- 【PETS PARTITION PLATE】 The cage includes a partition plate, it's easily secure and disassemble, also it's easy to adjust the size of the internal living area where your pet grows. If you have 2 pets, you can assign the activity area by their size.
- Indestructible Crate for Small Dogs: This 36 inch heavy duty dog crate delivers superior strength with its stainless steell build, hold up to 200 lb capacity, and double bolt latches. Designed to be both chew-proof and escape-proof, the dog crate is the secure and sturdy solution for small, powerful, and separation anxiety dogs
- 【Durable Construction】Our dog crate is made of sturdy, rust-resistant metal wire, making it durable and able to handle energetic puppies. Its durable design makes it resistant to deterioration, giving it a dependable option for extended usage.Dog cage dog crate dog kennel
- 【Leak-Proof Plastic Tray】This dog crate features a detachable, leak-proof plastic tray that runs the length of the crate, making cleanup simple in the event of an accident. For dog dishes that won't slip, look for a textured surface.Dog cage dog crate dog kennel
- 【Double Door Convenience】There are two ways to enter our dog crate: the front entrance and the side door. Numerous ways to enter and exit this dog kennel are available. When putting the crate in confined areas where a front door can be blocked or for anxious dogs who might prefer a side entry, this is really useful.Dog cage dog crate dog kennel
- 【Easy To Set Up】Any dog lover should own one of these crates. You don't want to be spending a lot of time while on vacation, therefore it's crucial that our puppy playpen is easy to put together and take down. Metal dog cage canine kennel with handle for dogs.Dog cage dog crate dog kennel
- 【After-Sale Service】Please feel free to contact our customer service if you have any questions or have any issues with the dog crate while using it. We guarantee that you will receive the finest solution and the most expert technical assistance. Dog cage dog crate dog kennel
The Ultimate Dog Crate Buying Guide
Picking the right dog crate can make a big difference for your furry friend and your home. A good crate offers a safe den for your dog. It helps with house training too. This guide will help you choose the best one.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, keep these main features in mind. They make a crate useful and safe.
Size Matters Most
- Proper Fit: Your dog must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Too small is cruel. Too big can slow down house training.
- Adjustable Panels: Many crates come with dividers. These let you make the space smaller for puppies and expand it as they grow. This is a great feature for long-term use.
Security and Access
- Strong Latches: Latches must be secure. A smart dog can figure out weak locks. Look for double-locking mechanisms.
- Door Placement: Consider where you will put the crate. Choose a crate with doors on the side and front if you need flexibility in placement.
Important Materials for Durability
The material affects how long the crate lasts and how safe it is.
Metal Wire Crates
These are very popular. They offer great ventilation. Air flows easily, keeping your dog cool. They are usually easy to clean.
Plastic Crrate (Travel Crates)
These sturdy carriers are great for travel. They offer more protection from weather. They are often easier to carry than heavy metal crates.
Wood or Furniture Crates
These blend nicely with your home decor. They often serve as end tables. However, puppies can chew wood, making them less ideal for new trainers.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all crates are made equal. Quality shows in the details.
What Makes a Crate Better
- Heavy-Duty Construction: Thicker metal gauge means the crate resists bending or breaking. This is vital if your dog is strong or prone to anxiety.
- Easy-to-Clean Trays: A removable plastic tray underneath catches accidents. Look for trays that slide out smoothly for quick cleanup.
What Lowers Quality
- Sharp Edges: Cheaply made crates sometimes have rough welds or sharp edges. Check every bar to ensure your dog won’t get scratched.
- Flimsy Doors: If the door rattles or seems loose when closed, it is a low-quality item. A weak door is an easy escape route.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use the crate every day.
For Home Training
A crate used for house training should be easy to move. You might need to bring it from the kitchen during the day to your bedroom at night. Wire crates with wheels or handles are helpful here.
For Travel
If you fly or take long car rides, you need a crate that meets airline standards. These are usually hard-sided plastic crates. They must have secure bolts, not just clips.
For Anxiety Relief
Some dogs get anxious in open wire crates. For these dogs, look for “den-style” crates. These often come with soft covers or solid-sided panels. These features make the space feel more enclosed and secure.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Dog Crates
Q: How do I choose the right size crate?
A: Measure your dog. They need room to stand up tall and turn around easily. Add a few inches to those measurements for comfort.
Q: Should I use a crate for a new puppy?
A: Yes. Crates help puppies learn potty rules fast. They also give the puppy a safe, den-like place to rest when you cannot watch them closely.
Q: Can I leave my dog in a crate all day?
A: No. Adult dogs should generally not be crated for more than four to six hours at a time during the day. Puppies need even more frequent breaks.
Q: Are metal crates better than plastic ones?
A: It depends on your need. Metal is best for home use and ventilation. Plastic is usually better and safer for car travel or veterinary visits.
Q: What is a divider panel for?
A: A divider panel lets you adjust the crate space. You use it to make the crate small enough for a puppy so they do not soil one end while sleeping in the other.
Q: How do I stop my dog from chewing the crate?
A: Ensure the crate is the right size. Provide plenty of safe chew toys inside. If chewing is constant, consult your vet about separation anxiety.
Q: What is the difference between a soft-sided and hard-sided crate?
A: Soft-sided crates use fabric and metal poles. They are light and fold up. Hard-sided crates are rigid plastic or metal and offer better protection.
Q: Do I need a crate cover?
A: A cover can help anxious dogs feel safe because it mimics a den. It also blocks light, which encourages sleep.
Q: How should I clean my dog’s crate?
A: Remove the bottom tray. Wash it with mild soap and water or pet-safe disinfectant. Wire crates can often be hosed down outside.
Q: Is it okay if the crate door opens outward or inward?
A: Most home crates open outward. For tight spaces, an inward-opening door might be useful, but make sure your dog has enough room to enter and exit easily.