Ever look at the mountain of dog crates available and feel completely lost? You want the best for your furry friend, a safe and comfortable space just for them. But figuring out which plastic dog crate actually fits your needs can feel like a confusing puzzle. Do you pick the cheapest one? The one that looks nicest? It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the choices and worry you might pick the wrong home for your dog.
Choosing the right plastic crate matters for your dog’s happiness and your peace of mind. A bad crate can be uncomfortable, hard to clean, or just not sturdy enough. We understand those worries!
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about plastic dog crates. We will show you what features really count. By the end, you will feel confident picking the perfect crate that keeps your dog secure and happy. Ready to find that ideal den? Let’s dive into the details of making the best choice for your pup.
Top Plastic Dog Crate Recommendations
- Hard sided pet carrier with 2 doors for front and top entry; suitable for cat or medium size dog weighing 12 - 20 pounds
- Durable plastic construction with steel wire doors; screws keep the top and bottom sections securely connected
- Spring load latches ensure easy one-handed door opening and closing; top door swings open to the left or right and includes a top carry handle
- Plenty of air ventilation on the sides, top, and back of the carrier
- Note: Be sure to measure the size of the pet when choosing carrier size
- Large Pet Crate: This dog kennel for large dogs has an easy-open latch for opening the dog travel carrier with one hand
- Up To 70 lbs: Suitable for pets up to – 70 lbs | Product dimensions-36 L x 25 W x 27 H inches| Product weight – 19 lbs
- Air Travel: This pet carrier meets most airline cargo specifications | The Air Travel kennel for dogs cats also has ventilation on 3 sides
- Aspen Pet: Aspen Pet provides every day essentials for pet parents, dogs cats Check out Aspen Pets for leash cable tie-outs, litter box accessories, pet toys, gravity water/food bowls, pet beds, dog houses, carriers more
- Just For Pets: Petmate makes a variety of pet products for dogs, cats, chickens other small furry friends Check out our brands such as Aspen Pet, Arm Hammer, Booda, Chuckit, Pet Qwerks more
- SECURE AND SAFE: Protect your pet with this USA made plastic dog crate featuring a an easy-open, sturdy wire door and tamper-proof holes for zip ties, so the kennel stays secure—a requirement for air travel
- AIRLINE-FRIENDLY: This pet carrier for dogs meets most airline cargo specifications, offering four-sided ventilation for your pet's comfort and visibility during air travel
- FOR SMALL DOGS: Designed for dogs weighing up to 10 lbs, this dog travel crate should have enough room for your pet to walk around and lie down with interior dimentions of 16.2" L x 12" W x 9" H
- EASY CLEANING: The portable dog crate's sturdy plastic shell is easy to wipe down quickly, while the stay-dry moat directs fluids away from your pet, making it great for housebreaking puppies or keeping pets dry during travel
- COMMITTED TO PET WELL-BEING: For over 60 years, Petmate has created high-quality products like pet crates for dogs that improve the lives of pets and their owners
- Sturdy Plastic Dog Crate: Securely and safely protect your pet and your home with this small dog crate that features an easy-open latch to secure the sturdy wire door, and durable fold-down handle making carrying this dog travel crate a breeze
- Suitable for Pets 20-25 lbs: Pet Kennel exterior dimensions - 26" L x 18.6" W x 16.5" H; Interior dimensions - 23.8" L x 17" W x 15.5" H. Product weight – 5 lbs. If in doubt, buy a size up. Available in four colors. No tools required for assembly
- Airline Friendly Dog Carrier: This pet carrier meets most airline cargo specifications. This travel dog crate also has ventilation on 4 sides. Includes built in storage for additional pet identification
- Easy to Keep Clean: Sturdy plastic shell on this dog carrier is easy to clean, with stay-dry moat that surrounds the interior to pulls fluids away from your pet in case of wet accidents, making it a great puppy carrier or kennel trainer for housebreaking
- For Pets and Pet Parents: Petmate provides everyday essentials for pet parents, dogs, cats and other pets such as: litter box accessories, pet toys, cat cages, dog cages, gravity water/food bowls, dog cages, pet beds, puppy crates, cat carriers and more!
- Sturdy Plastic Dog Crate: Securely and safely protect your pet and your home with this small dog crate that features an easy-open latch to secure the sturdy wire door, and durable fold-down handle making carrying this dog travel crate a breeze
- Suitable for Pets 20-25 lbs: Pet Kennel exterior dimensions - 26" L x 18.6" W x 16.5" H; Interior dimensions - 23.8" L x 17" W x 15.5" H. Product weight – 5 lbs. If in doubt, buy a size up. No tools required for assembly
- Airline Friendly Dog Carrier: This pet carrier meets most airline cargo specifications. This travel dog crate also has ventilation on 4 sides. Includes built in storage for additional pet identification
- Easy to Keep Clean: Sturdy plastic shell on this dog carrier is easy to clean, with stay-dry moat that surrounds the interior to pulls fluids away from your pet in case of wet accidents, making it a great puppy carrier or kennel trainer for housebreaking
- For Pets and Pet Parents: Petmate provides everyday essentials for pet parents, dogs, cats and other pets such as: litter box accessories, pet toys, cat cages, dog cages, gravity water/food bowls, dog cages, pet beds, puppy crates, cat carriers and more!
- TRAVEL PET CRATE: Perfect for on-the-go pet parents, this hard-sided kennel is ideal for home, car travel, and outdoor adventures. Not approved for airline travel, but great for road trips, vet visits, or temporary containment of medium, kennel-trained pets.
- COLLAPSIBLE & LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN: Folds flat in seconds for effortless storage and portability. A built-in carrying handle makes transport a breeze, while the lightweight construction offers ease without sacrificing durability.
- DOG CARRIER FEATURES: Durable twist-lock metal gate keeps your pet secure. Side ventilation slots provide airflow and visibility for comfort and peace of mind during travel. Designed for both indoor and outdoor use.
- KENNEL SIZING: Designed for medium dogs, puppies, cats, kittens, and other medium animals. Measures 30.6"L x 22"W x 23.25"H — ideal for kennel-trained pets that need a cozy, secure space.
- FIND YOUR PET SIZE: This Medium travel pet kennel fits an animal maximum 21" tall x 28" long, up to 50lbs. For a comfortable fit for your pet, measure the height of your pet from floor to top of ears, in their most straight upright sitting or standing position, to capture their maximum height. Ensure their height does not exceed 21". Additionally, measure your pet's length, tip of nose to their rump, excluding their tail, ensuring this length also does not exceed the maximum 28" length. Size up your kennel if needed to ensure your animal has plenty of space to sit up, stand, and turn around with ease.
- Space-Saving Foldable Design: This collapsible dog crate features a innovative foldable design, allowing it to be stored flat when not in use. Perfect for small apartments or homes with limited space, it ensures easy storage without sacrificing functionality.
- Easy Mobility with Wheels & Handles: Equipped with two smooth-rolling wheels and sturdy handles on both sides, this pet crate offers effortless mobility. Move your dog cage around the house or during travel with minimal effort. Ideal for repositioning in your living room, patio, or vehicle.
- Durable & Escape-Proof Construction: Made from reinforced hard plastic and strong metal wire, this heavy-duty dog crate ensures maximum security. The robust design prevents escapes and provides a safe, den-like environment for your dog. It’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing for modern homes.
- Secure & User-Friendly Lock Mechanism: Features squeeze-latch locks on the door for quick and secure closure. These locks are easy for owners to operate but prevent clever dogs from opening them. Set up and fold down the crate in seconds with no tools required.
- Multi-Scenario Use & Travel Ready: Designed for versatile use - whether as a cozy indoor dog house, a travel crate for road trips, or a temporary containment space outdoors. The medium-size crate fits comfortably in most mid-to-large SUV trunks, making it perfect for adventures and daily use alike.
- Heavy-Duty Travel Kennel – Spacious, sturdy, and airline-friendly design makes this crate the perfect solution for both home use and safe pet travel
- Iata Airline Approved, compliant with the standards specified in the 51st edition (2025) of the IATA Live Animals Regulation
- Travel Essentials Included – Comes with 2 water dishes, 4 live animal stickers, metal bolts & nuts, and tie-down holes required by airlines for extra security
- Removable Wheels for Easy Transport – Wheels snap on and off as needed, making airport navigation simple while keeping the option for a lighter, stationary kennel at home. Includes sturdy top carry handles.
- Sturdy Secure & Comfortable – Durable plastic shell, reinforced metal hardware, and strong door latch keep your pet safe, with steady airflow and visibility built in.durable plastic construction makes for easy assembly
Choosing the Right Plastic Dog Crate: Your Complete Buying Guide
Picking the best plastic dog crate for your furry friend involves looking at a few important things. A good crate offers safety, comfort, and durability. This guide helps you make the right choice for your dog.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, focus on features that make the crate safe and easy to use.
Ventilation and Visibility
- Airflow: Look for crates with plenty of vents or openings. Good airflow keeps your dog cool and comfortable.
- Visibility: Your dog should be able to see out a little. This reduces anxiety.
Security and Access
- Secure Latches: The door must have strong, reliable latches. A dog should not be able to push or chew its way out easily.
- Door Swing: Check if the door swings in or out easily. Make sure it opens wide enough for your dog to enter without crouching too much.
- Assembly: Some crates snap together, while others need screws. Simple assembly is usually better.
Portability and Cleaning
- Handle: A sturdy handle makes moving the crate much easier, especially when traveling.
- Removable Tray: A tray at the bottom that slides out simplifies cleaning accidents quickly.
Important Materials and Construction
Plastic crates are popular because they are generally easy to maintain. However, the quality of the plastic matters a lot.
The Plastic Itself
Most good crates use heavy-duty, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or similar tough plastics. This plastic resists cracking if dropped or bumped. Cheaper, brittle plastic can break easily, creating sharp edges.
Metal Components
The hardware—like hinges, bolts, and door bars—should be strong metal, often steel. Rust-resistant coatings on the metal parts help the crate last longer, especially if you use it outdoors sometimes.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The way a crate is built directly affects how long it lasts and how safe it is.
Quality Boosters
- Thick Walls: Thicker plastic shells offer better protection against chewing or impact.
- Reinforced Corners: Stronger corners mean the crate holds its shape better over time.
- Drainage Grooves: Some higher-quality trays have grooves to direct liquids away from your dog.
Quality Reducers (Things to Avoid)
- Thin Plastic: Very thin plastic flexes too much and is easily damaged by strong chewers.
- Sharp Edges: Inspect all seams and entry points. Any rough or sharp plastic edges must be avoided.
- Flimsy Latches: If the latches wiggle or feel weak, they are a safety risk.
User Experience and Use Cases
Consider how you plan to use the crate most often. This helps narrow down the perfect model.
Travel vs. Home Use
If you travel a lot, you need a lightweight crate that breaks down flat easily. These are often called “airline-approved” crates, though you should always check specific airline rules.
For home use, stability and size are more important than extreme lightness. A heavier, sturdier crate feels more secure in a corner of your living room.
Training and Containment
Plastic crates are excellent for house training because they are easy to clean if accidents happen. They create a den-like space. Ensure the crate is correctly sized—your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not have so much room that they can soil one corner and sleep in the other.
10 Frequently Asked Questions About Plastic Dog Crates
Q: Are plastic crates better than wire crates?
A: Plastic crates offer better insulation from cold or heat. They also provide more privacy, which some dogs prefer. Wire crates offer better visibility and airflow.
Q: How do I choose the right size?
A: Measure your dog when standing tall and lying down stretched out. The crate should be slightly longer and taller than these measurements.
Q: Can a plastic crate keep a strong chewer contained?
A: Yes, if the plastic is thick and high-quality. However, extremely determined chewers might still damage plastic over time, sometimes preferring wire.
Q: How important is ventilation in a plastic crate?
A: Ventilation is very important! Make sure there are vents on all four sides, not just the door.
Q: Are plastic crates hard to clean?
A: No, they are usually very easy to clean. Most have a removable plastic tray underneath for fast cleanup of messes.
Q: Do plastic crates get too hot in the sun?
A: Yes, they can. Never leave a plastic crate in direct, hot sunlight, as the plastic can absorb heat quickly and make the inside dangerously hot.
Q: Do I need to buy a separate tray?
A: Most good plastic crates come with a removable floor tray built in. Always check the product description to confirm.
Q: Are plastic crates good for air travel?
A: Some are designed to meet airline requirements, usually those made of very thick, durable plastic with metal bolts holding the top and bottom halves together.
Q: Will the plastic smell over time?
A: If cleaned regularly, plastic does not hold odors well. Strong, lingering smells usually happen only after severe, uncleaned accidents.
Q: What is the average lifespan of a good plastic crate?
A: A high-quality plastic crate, if treated well, can easily last five to ten years or more.