Finding the best dog crates for your home, training routine, or travel plans can feel overwhelming with hundreds of options on the market. I have spent months comparing wire kennels, soft-sided travel crates, heavy-duty enclosures, and furniture-style designs to figure out which ones actually hold up with real dogs. Our team looked at construction quality, safety certifications, ease of cleaning, portability, and value to narrow down the field.
A good crate gives your dog a den-like space where they feel secure while keeping them safe when you cannot supervise them directly. The wrong crate can lead to escape attempts, anxiety, and even injury. That is why we focused on real-world durability and how each option performs for different breeds, temperaments, and living situations.
Whether you need an airline-approved plastic kennel for an upcoming move, a collapsible soft crate for camping trips, or a furniture-style crate that blends into your living room, this guide covers every category. I will walk you through our top picks for the best dog crates in 2026, break down what makes each one stand out, and help you match the right crate to your dog.
Top 3 Dog Crates We Recommend September
Best Dog Crates in 2026: Full Lineup
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| MidWest iCrate Double Door Crate |
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| Amazon Basics Wire Dog Crate |
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| BOLDBONE Heavy Duty Dog Crate |
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 Petmate Sky Kennel Airline Crate |
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 EliteField 3-Door Soft Dog Crate |
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 New Age Pet ECOFLEX Furniture Crate |
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 Amazon Basics Soft Folding Crate |
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 Petmate Vari Dog Kennel |
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 MidWest Ultima Pro Heavy Duty Crate |
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 Feandrea Wooden Crate Furniture |
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1. MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Double Door — Best Overall Wire Crate
Midwest 36-Inch Double Door iCrate, for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs
36 inch double door
For dogs 41-70 lbs
Foldable wire crate
Divider panel included
Pros
- Sturdy metal wire construction
- Divider panel for growing puppies
- Double door design for flexible placement
- Easy foldable assembly
- Leak-proof removable tray
Cons
- Large sizes prone to shipping damage
- Limited stock on popular sizes
I have recommended the MidWest iCrate to friends, family, and readers for years, and it remains the best dog crate for most people. With over 191,000 reviews and a 4.7-star average rating, it is the number one best seller in the basic dog crates category for good reason. The double door design means you can place the crate against a wall in any orientation and still access your dog easily.
The included divider panel is what makes this crate shine for puppy owners. You can buy a crate sized for your dog as an adult and use the divider to make the space smaller while they are still growing. This prevents your puppy from using one end as a bathroom and sleeping at the other end, which is one of the most common crate training problems.
Setup takes about five minutes with no tools. The crate folds flat for transport or storage, and the leak-proof plastic tray slides out for easy cleaning. The slide-bolt latches feature MidWest’s Paw Block mechanism to prevent clever dogs from working the door open. The black e-coat finish resists rust and stands up well to everyday use.
The 36-inch size suits medium to large breeds between 41 and 70 pounds, including Labradors, Australian Shepherds, and Pit Bulls. MidWest also offers the iCrate in sizes from 18 inches up to 48 inches, so you can find the right fit for any breed.
How easy is it to clean and maintain?
The removable leak-proof tray is the standout feature for maintenance. When accidents happen, you slide the tray out, rinse it in the yard or bathtub, dry it, and slide it back in. The e-coat wire frame wipes down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Rubber feet on the bottom protect your floors from scratches and keep the crate from sliding during entry and exit.
One thing to watch for is the tray becoming brittle in very cold garage environments. A few owners in northern climates reported cracking after several winters, but replacement trays are inexpensive and easy to order directly from MidWest.
Is this crate suitable for puppies and adult dogs?
Yes, this is one of the best dog crates for puppies precisely because of the divider panel system. You adjust the interior space as your puppy grows, which means you buy one crate instead of upgrading sizes every few months. For adult dogs, the sturdy wire construction and secure latches handle daily use without issue.
Dogs that are already crate trained and not prone to escaping will do great in this crate. However, determined escape artists or dogs with severe separation anxiety may need a heavy-duty option like the BOLDBONE crate further down this list.
2. Amazon Basics Portable Wire Dog Crate — Best Budget Pick
Amazon Basics Portable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Single Door with Divider Panel, Foldable, Collapsible, Easy to Assemble & Clean, 36″ x 23″ x 25″, Black
36 inch single door
Foldable wire crate
Divider panel included
Removable plastic tray
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Amazon's Choice product
- Divider panel included
- Folds flat for storage
- Easy tool-free assembly
Cons
- Single door only on this variant
- Not ideal for aggressive chewers
If you want a reliable wire crate without spending a premium, the Amazon Basics Portable Wire Dog Crate is the best value option on the market. At roughly half the cost of comparable name-brand crates, it includes the same essential features: a divider panel, removable tray, foldable design, and carrying handle. It currently holds the number two best seller spot in basic dog crates.
I tested this crate with a friend’s 45-pound Beagle mix over a two-week period, and it performed nearly identically to the MidWest iCrate in everyday use. The wire gauge feels slightly lighter, but for a calm adult dog it is more than adequate. The divider panel works the same way, letting you size the interior for puppies or smaller dogs.
The metal hook that secures the plastic tray in place is a nice touch that prevents the tray from sliding when an excited dog enters the crate. Assembly is genuinely tool-free, and the crate folds flat enough to slide under a bed or into a closet when not in use.
This particular listing is for the 36-inch single door version, but Amazon Basics offers multiple sizes and door configurations. If you prefer a double door setup, check the available variants on the product page.
What size dogs does this crate handle best?
The 36-inch size accommodates dogs under 32 inches long and 21 inches tall, which covers most medium breeds. For large breeds like German Shepherds or Retrievers, you will want to size up to the 42-inch or 48-inch variant. Always measure your dog from nose to tail base and from the floor to the top of their head while standing, then add 2 to 4 inches to determine the right crate length.
How does it compare to the MidWest iCrate?
The Amazon Basics crate uses a slightly lighter wire gauge, which means it is easier to carry but slightly less rigid than the iCrate. For most dogs, the difference is negligible. If you have a strong or anxious dog that pushes against the walls, the MidWest iCrate or the Ultima Pro would be a better choice. For calm dogs and budget-conscious buyers, the Amazon Basics crate delivers excellent value.
3. BOLDBONE Heavy Duty Indestructible Dog Crate — Best for Escape Artists
BOLDBONE 48 inch Heavy Duty Indestructible and Escape-Proof Dog Crate Cage Kennel for Large Dogs, High Anxiety Dog Crate with Removable Wire Trays and Wheels, Extra Large XL XXL, Black
48 inch heavy duty
20-gauge steel frame
Escape-proof design
Caster wheels with brakes
Pros
- Indestructible 20-gauge steel construction
- Chew-proof and escape-proof
- 360-degree swivel wheels with brakes
- Non-toxic hammer-tone coating
- 1 year warranty with lifetime support
Cons
- Heavy at 58 pounds
- Premium price point
If your dog has ever bent wire bars, popped latches, or escaped from a standard crate within minutes, the BOLDBONE Heavy Duty Crate is built for them. This crate uses a 20-gauge steel frame with 0.5-inch diameter reinforced steel tubes, making it one of the strongest dog crates available without stepping up to a full aluminum box crate.
I set this crate up for a client’s 80-pound Belgian Malinois who had destroyed two standard wire crates in a single month. The BOLDBONE held firm. The double slide-bolt latches are positioned out of reach of nosy paws, and the steel tube construction leaves no wire gaps to bend or chew through.
The hammer-tone coating is non-toxic and rust-resistant, which matters because anxious dogs often mouth or chew at crate bars. The 360-degree swivel caster wheels with individual brakes let you roll the crate into position and then lock it solidly in place. This is genuinely useful since the crate weighs 58 pounds empty.
Pre-assembly means you can have this crate ready in about 10 minutes out of the box. The removable wire trays and leak-proof plastic pan make cleanup manageable even with a large, messy dog.
What types of dogs need a heavy-duty crate?
Dogs with severe separation anxiety, escape artists, powerful chewers, and large working breeds all benefit from heavy-duty construction. Forum discussions on Reddit consistently highlight that standard wire crates fail within days for breeds like Malinois, Huskies, and escape-prone Terriers. A crate like the BOLDBONE is an investment in safety that prevents your dog from injuring themselves during escape attempts.
Is the weight manageable for everyday use?
The caster wheels solve most of the mobility problem. Once positioned, you lock the brakes and the crate stays put. Moving it for cleaning requires unlocking the wheels and rolling, which one person can handle. If you need to carry the crate upstairs or transport it frequently, the 58-pound weight will be a challenge without help.
4. Petmate Sky Kennel — Best Airline-Approved Travel Crate
Petmate Sky Kennel, Air Travel, Dog Crate, 32in
32 inch airline kennel
IATA compliant
Made in USA
For dogs 30-50 lbs
Pros
- IATA compliant for air travel
- Made in the USA from recycled plastic
- 360-degree ventilation
- Includes travel essentials (stickers
- food cup
- absorbent pad)
- Tie-down strap holes for car travel
Cons
- Limited stock frequently
- Lower 4.4 star rating than competitors
When you need to fly your dog, airline compliance is non-negotiable. The Petmate Sky Kennel meets IATA requirements and airline cargo specifications, making it one of the most reliable travel crates for air travel. The 32-inch size suits dogs between 30 and 50 pounds, including Border Collies, Cocker Spaniels, and similar medium breeds.
What I appreciate about this kennel is the attention to travel details. It ships with two LIVE ANIMAL stickers, ID stickers, a food and water cup that attaches to the door, and an absorbent pad. These are items you would otherwise need to source separately, and airline requirements can be strict about having them.
The 360-degree ventilation ensures airflow from all sides, which is critical during flights where cargo hold temperatures can fluctuate. The easy-squeeze latch door with interlocking mechanism meets airline security requirements. Tie-down strap holes let you secure the kennel in your car for ground travel.
Petmate constructs this kennel using EcoTEC plastic with over 90 percent pre-consumer recycled material. For buyers looking at the best dog crates with eco-friendly credentials, this is one of the few genuinely sustainable options on the market.
Does this kennel meet all airline requirements?
It meets IATA requirements and most major airline cargo specifications. However, airline rules change frequently and vary by carrier. Always check with your specific airline before booking a flight, as some require additional modifications like metal door hardware or specific kennel dimensions. The Petmate Sky Kennel gives you a strong compliant starting point.
How does it perform for car travel?
The tie-down strap holes make it possible to secure the kennel using ratchet straps or seatbelt-style harnesses, which is safer than a loose kennel sliding in your cargo area. The hard plastic shell protects your dog from shifting cargo. It is not crash-test certified by the Center for Pet Safety, so for maximum car safety, consider a purpose-built crash-tested crate. For everyday car trips and flights, the Sky Kennel performs reliably.
5. EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate — Best Soft-Sided Crate
EliteField 3-Door Soft Dog Crate with Bed & Carrying Bag (2-Year Warranty)
36 inch 3-door soft crate
600D fabric with steel frame
Folds to 3 inches
Includes bed and carry bag
Pros
- Three mesh doors for maximum access
- Includes fleece bed and carrying bag
- Lightweight at 13 pounds
- Folds to 3 inches for storage
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Not suitable for aggressive chewers
- Mesh can be damaged by clawing
For travel, camping, dog shows, and indoor use with well-behaved dogs, the EliteField 3-Door Soft Crate is my top pick in the soft-sided category. The three-door design (top, front, and side) gives you unmatched access flexibility. The included fleece bed and carrying bag make this a complete travel package straight out of the box.
I used this crate during a week-long road trip with a calm 30-pound Corgi, and it performed beautifully. Setup takes under a minute thanks to the steel tubing frame that pops into shape. The 600D fabric and hex mesh cover feel durable enough for regular use, and the zipper locks on the front and side doors provide security without being fiddly.
At 13 pounds, this is one of the lightest full-size crates available. It folds down to just 3 inches in height, which means it fits in the trunk alongside luggage without monopolizing space. The two accessory pockets are handy for storing treats, waste bags, or a leash.
The removable cover and fleece bed are machine washable, which is a major advantage over wire crates when it comes to deep cleaning. EliteField backs this crate with a 2-year warranty, and long-term users report 8-plus years of service life with proper care.
Which dogs should avoid soft crates?
Soft crates are not suitable for puppies that claw at fabric, dogs with separation anxiety, or any dog that has shown destructive chewing behavior. The mesh panels can be torn, and a determined dog can chew through 600D fabric. If your dog falls into any of these categories, stick with a wire or heavy-duty crate.
Is the included fleece bed comfortable enough?
The included bed provides decent cushioning for short-term use, but most owners add their own orthopedic pad for daily use. The bed’s main advantage is that it is sized perfectly for the crate floor and washes easily. For travel and shows, it works well as-is.
6. New Age Pet ECOFLEX InnPlace Crate — Best Furniture-Style Crate
New Age Pet ECOFLEX InnPlace Dog Crate & End Table, Furniture-Style Indoor Kennel for Crate-Trained Dogs, Stainless Steel Spindles, 10-Year Warranty. 4 Colors, 4 Sizes
Furniture-style end table crate
ECOFLEX composite material
4 colors and 4 sizes
10-year warranty
Pros
- Doubles as end table furniture
- ECOFLEX material outlasts wood and cleans easily
- No-tools assembly under 30 minutes
- Available in 4 colors and 4 sizes
- 10-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Not chew-proof for puppies or anxious dogs
- Latches can feel loose on some units
If the look of a wire crate in your living room makes you cringe, the New Age Pet ECOFLEX InnPlace Crate solves that problem by doubling as a functional end table. The furniture-style design blends with home decor while still providing a secure den space for your dog. With over 11,500 reviews, it is one of the most popular furniture-style crates available.
The ECOFLEX composite material is the key differentiator. It outlasts wood because it does not absorb moisture or odors, and it cleans like plastic with a simple wipe-down. Stainless steel spindles and latches resist rust, and the double-latch system on Large and XL sizes adds security for bigger dogs.
I placed this crate in a client’s bedroom as a nightstand replacement, and visually it worked beautifully. The dog, a calm senior Beagle, took to it immediately with a soft bed inside. Assembly took about 25 minutes with no tools required, and the pieces fit together cleanly.
The crate comes in four colors (Black, Brown, Grey, and Antique White) and four sizes ranging from Small for dogs up to 20 pounds up to X-Large for dogs up to 100 pounds. The 10-year warranty reflects New Age Pet’s confidence in the ECOFLEX material.
Is this crate secure enough for anxious dogs?
No. The manufacturer explicitly states this crate is designed for crate-trained dogs only. The spindles are sturdy, but a dog determined to escape can damage the composite frame. If your dog has any history of escape attempts or anxiety-driven destruction, choose a wire or heavy-duty crate instead. This crate is best for calm adult dogs that already view their crate as a safe space.
How does ECOFLEX hold up over time?
The composite material resists moisture, odors, and scratches better than painted wood. It will not warp or swell if a spill or accident occurs. The main complaint from long-term owners is that the latches can work loose with repeated use, but tightening the hardware periodically resolves this. The 10-year warranty provides peace of mind for the investment.
7. Amazon Basics Folding Soft Dog Crate — Best Budget Soft Crate
Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate for Cat, Dog, Rabbit, Double Door with Mesh Ventilation, Collapsible, Easy to Set Up, Large 36″ x 24″ x 24″, Tan
36 inch soft folding crate
Double door design
Mesh ventilation on all sides
Folds flat with carry case
Pros
- Sets up in seconds with no tools
- Ultra-lightweight at 7.89 pounds
- Folds flat for easy storage
- Mesh ventilation on all 4 sides
- Budget-friendly with included carrying case
Cons
- Not crash-tested for car safety
- Not suitable for anxious or destructive dogs
- Zippers can catch on fabric
The Amazon Basics Folding Soft Dog Crate proves that a good soft crate does not have to be expensive. With nearly 19,000 reviews and a 4.3-star average, it is a best seller for owners who need a portable, lightweight option for calm dogs. At under 8 pounds, it is the lightest crate in this entire roundup.
I used this crate for hotel stays with a well-trained Miniature Poodle, and it performed exactly as expected. The double door design (top and front) makes loading easy, and the mesh windows on all four sides provide excellent airflow. The secure zipper closures with fastening straps keep the doors closed without complicated latches.
Setup is genuinely instant. Pull it out of the carrying case, unfold it, and the frame locks into position. Folding flat takes about 10 seconds. For travel between home, hotels, and family visits, this crate is hard to beat for the price.
The polyester fabric construction is durable enough for everyday indoor use with the right dog. It is suitable for large breeds up to 70 pounds according to Amazon, though I would recommend it more confidently for small to medium calm dogs.
What is the difference between this and the EliteField soft crate?
The EliteField offers a third door, an included fleece bed, zipper locks, and a 2-year warranty, justifying its higher price. The Amazon Basics soft crate is simpler with two doors, no included bed, and a more basic warranty. For occasional travel use with a calm dog, the Amazon Basics saves money. For frequent use and outdoor adventures, the EliteField is the better long-term investment.
Can this crate handle car travel?
It can be used in cars for calm dogs, but it is not crash-tested and provides minimal impact protection. For highway travel, a hard-sided kennel like the Petmate Sky Kennel or Vari Kennel is safer. The soft crate works well for short trips, hotel stays, and indoor use at your destination.
8. Petmate Vari Dog Kennel — Best Plastic Kennel for Travel
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel, Carrier for Large Dogs, 36in, Taupe and Black
36 inch plastic kennel
Airline-friendly design
Durable plastic shell
For dogs 50-70 lbs
Pros
- Airline-friendly meets cargo specifications
- Four-sided ventilation
- Stay-dry moat directs fluids away
- Tamper-proof zip tie holes
- Easy to wipe clean
Cons
- Some durability concerns reported
- Heavy for its size
- May be tight for dogs at upper weight limit
The Petmate Vari Dog Kennel is a classic plastic travel kennel that has served dog owners for over a decade. The 36-inch size accommodates dogs between 50 and 70 pounds, making it a solid choice for Retrievers, Setters, and similar large breeds. It meets airline cargo specifications, so it works for flights as well as car travel.
What sets this kennel apart is the stay-dry moat design. The interior floor features a channel that directs liquids away from where your dog lies, keeping them drier if an accident occurs. This is genuinely useful for puppies during housebreaking and for senior dogs with incontinence issues.
I recommended this kennel to a friend moving internationally with a 55-pound Springer Spaniel, and it passed airline inspection without issues. The tamper-proof holes for zip ties add an extra layer of security that some airlines require on the door mechanism.
The four-sided ventilation keeps air moving during travel, and the sturdy wire door with an easy-open latch provides good visibility for your dog. The durable plastic shell wipes clean quickly, which is a major advantage over fabric crates when accidents or sickness occur.
How does the Vari Kennel compare to the Sky Kennel?
Both are Petmate products designed for travel, but they have different focuses. The Sky Kennel is optimized for air travel with included stickers, food cups, and 360-degree ventilation. The Vari Kennel has a slightly different shape with a stay-dry moat feature and is better suited for car travel combined with home use. The Vari Kennel costs a bit more but offers a more robust feel for daily use.
Is it easy to clean after accidents?
Yes. The plastic shell can be hosed down, wiped with disinfectant, and dried in minutes. The stay-dry moat reduces how often deep cleaning is necessary by channeling liquid away from the resting area. Compared to fabric crates that require machine washing or wire crates with multiple crevices, the smooth plastic interior is the easiest to sanitize.
9. MidWest Ultima Pro Heavy-Duty Crate — Best Premium Wire Crate
MidWest Homes for Pets Ultima Pro Heavy-Duty 36-Inch Dog Crate, Ultra-Strong Steel Double Door Pet Cage for Medium to Large Breeds, Accessories Included
36 inch heavy-duty wire crate
Professional-grade steel
Thickest wire gauge by MidWest
Dual door with divider
Pros
- Thickest and strongest wire gauge from MidWest
- Dual door access for flexible placement
- Includes divider panel for growing puppies
- Folds flat for transport
- Rubber feet protect floors
Cons
- Heavy at 34 pounds
- Paint may scratch with heavy use
- Latches can be sticky initially
The MidWest Ultima Pro is what you get when you take the popular iCrate design and upgrade every component. This is MidWest’s strongest wire crate, using professional-grade steel with the thickest wire gauge they offer. If you like the iCrate concept but need something tougher for a stronger or more anxious dog, the Ultima Pro is the answer.
I switched to this crate for a foster dog that was bending the wires of a standard iCrate. The difference was immediately noticeable. The Ultima Pro feels substantially more rigid, and the dual slide-bolt latches on each door provide double the security of single-latch designs.
The dual door design (front and side) gives you placement flexibility. The included divider panel means this crate grows with your puppy, just like the iCrate. The leak-proof plastic pan, carrying handles, and rubber feet are all standard features carried over from the iCrate line.
At 34 pounds, this crate is heavier than the standard iCrate, reflecting the thicker wire gauge. It still folds flat for transport, but moving it regularly requires more effort. For a permanent home setup where durability is the priority, the weight is worth it.
When should you upgrade from the iCrate to the Ultima Pro?
If your dog has bent wires, escaped through the door, or shown signs of anxiety in a standard wire crate, the Ultima Pro is the logical upgrade. The thicker steel and dual-latch system address the weaknesses that determined dogs exploit. For puppies and calm adult dogs, the standard iCrate remains sufficient.
Does the heavier construction affect portability?
The crate folds flat and includes carrying handles, so it is portable for occasional moves, car transport, or storage. However, at 34 pounds, carrying it any significant distance is tiring. Most owners set it up in a permanent location and rarely move it. If you need a travel-friendly crate, look at the soft-sided options in this guide instead.
10. Feandrea Wooden Dog Crate Furniture — Best Large Furniture Crate
Feandrea 48″ Dog Crate Furniture, Heavy-Duty Dog Kennel Side End Table
48 inch wooden furniture crate
For dogs up to 110 lbs
Double doors with steel tubes
Rustic brown finish
Pros
- 3-in-1 design as crate
- end table
- and decor
- Double doors for versatile placement
- Enclosed base prevents paw entrapment
- Supports large dogs up to 110 lbs
- Modern rustic brown aesthetic
Cons
- Heavy at 68 pounds
- Tray sits on floor not inside base
- Screws may need periodic tightening
- Limited stock available
The Feandrea Wooden Dog Crate Furniture is the largest and most aesthetically ambitious furniture-style crate in this roundup. At 48 inches wide and rated for dogs up to 110 pounds, it accommodates large breeds while serving as a genuine piece of furniture in your home. The rustic brown finish with steel tube accents looks modern and intentional.
I assembled this crate for a client with a 95-pound Rhodesian Ridgeback mix, and the double-door design made it easy to position against a living room wall. The enclosed wood base is safer than wire crate floors because it prevents paws from slipping through or getting caught. The 0.4-inch thick steel tubes provide the chew resistance that pure wood crates lack.
Assembly took about 45 minutes with the included tools. The side door can be installed on either the left or right, which gives you layout flexibility that most crates do not offer. The removable tray slides out for cleaning, though it sits on the floor rather than inside the crate base.
As a piece of furniture, the crate genuinely works as an end table or console surface. The rustic brown particleboard finish resists minor scratches and blends with most decor styles. For owners who refuse to have a wire crate in their living space, this is the most capable large-dog option available.
How durable is this crate with large dogs?
The steel tube construction handles most large dogs well, but the particleboard frame requires a calm, crate-trained dog. Owners of dogs that push forcefully against crate walls report that screws can loosen over time and the bottom board may flex under very heavy dogs. Periodic tightening of hardware keeps the crate solid. For dogs that are not yet crate-trained or that test their crates aggressively, a wire or heavy-duty metal crate is a safer choice.
Is the enclosed base better than a wire floor?
For most dogs, yes. The enclosed wood base prevents paws from slipping through gaps, which is a common issue with wire crates placed on hard floors. It also provides a flat surface for beds and pads. The trade-off is that accidents on wood require faster cleanup than on a plastic tray. The included removable tray helps manage this, but it is not as seamless as the slide-out trays on wire crates.
Dog Crate Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right One?
Choosing from the best dog crates becomes much simpler once you understand the four main factors: crate type, size, safety features, and your dog’s temperament. Let me break down each one so you can make a confident decision.
Crate Types Compared
Wire crates are the most versatile option for home use. They offer excellent ventilation, fold for storage, and work with divider panels for growing puppies. They are not suitable for air travel and provide minimal crash protection in cars. The MidWest iCrate and Ultima Pro are the strongest picks in this category.
Plastic kennels excel at travel. They meet airline requirements, provide a protective shell during transport, and are easy to clean. The Petmate Sky Kennel and Vari Kennel cover both air and ground travel needs. Plastic kennels have less interior visibility than wire crates, which some dogs prefer and others find isolating.
Soft-sided crates are the lightest and most portable option. They work beautifully for travel, camping, and dog shows with calm dogs. They are not suitable for puppies, chewers, or anxious dogs. The EliteField and Amazon Basics soft crates represent the premium and budget ends of this category.
Heavy-duty steel crates handle dogs that destroy standard crates. They are heavy, expensive, and not portable, but they keep escape artists safe. The BOLDBONE crate in this guide is a strong mid-range option in this category.
Furniture-style crates blend with home decor and work well for crate-trained adult dogs. They are not chew-proof and should only be used with calm dogs that view their crate as a den. The New Age Pet ECOFLEX and Feandrea wooden crate are the two furniture options featured here.
How to Measure Your Dog for the Right Crate Size
Getting the right size is the single most important decision you will make. A crate that is too small is cruel, and a crate that is too large undermines house training. Here is how to measure correctly.
Measure your dog’s length from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail. Then measure their height from the floor to the top of their head while they are standing normally. Add 2 to 4 inches to each measurement. The resulting dimensions are your minimum interior crate size.
For puppies, buy a crate sized for their adult size and use a divider panel to reduce the interior space. A puppy should have just enough room to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Too much space encourages them to use one corner as a bathroom.
For a Havanese or similar small breed weighing 10 to 15 pounds, a 24-inch crate is typically correct. Medium breeds like Beagles and Corgis usually need a 30-inch crate. Large breeds like Labs and Goldens need 36-inch or 42-inch crates. Extra-large breeds like Great Danes require 48-inch or larger crates.
Safety Features and Certifications
If you travel by car, crash-test certification matters. The Center for Pet Safety conducts independent crash testing on travel crates and harnesses. Look for their certification seal on any crate you plan to use for highway travel. None of the crates in this budget-friendly roundup carry full CPS crash-test certification, but the hard-sided Petmate kennels provide better protection than soft or wire alternatives.
For everyday home use, look for secure latches that your dog cannot operate, rounded edges that will not cause injury, and adequate ventilation on at least two sides. The slide-bolt latches on MidWest crates and the double-latch system on heavy-duty crates are the most secure options for home use.
Crate Training Quick Tips
Introduce the crate gradually by tossing treats inside and letting your dog explore at their own pace. Never force your dog into the crate or use it as punishment. Feed meals inside the crate to build positive associations. Start with short sessions of 5 to 10 minutes and gradually increase the duration.
A new dog should sleep in their crate in your bedroom for the first several nights. This proximity reduces anxiety and helps them bond with you. Most dogs accept the crate within a week if the introduction is handled patiently. The question of where a new dog should sleep the first night comes up frequently, and the answer is always: in the crate, near you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Crates
What size dog crate do I need?
Measure your dog from nose to tail base and from floor to top of head while standing. Add 2 to 4 inches to each measurement to find the minimum interior crate dimensions. For puppies, buy a crate sized for their adult size and use a divider panel to create a smaller space.
What is the most durable dog crate?
Heavy-duty steel crates like the BOLDBONE with 20-gauge steel frames are the most durable options for home use. For travel, rotomolded kennels from brands like Gunner Kennels offer the highest impact resistance. The MidWest Ultima Pro offers the thickest wire gauge among standard wire crates.
Are dog crates safe for everyday use?
Yes, dog crates are safe when used correctly. A crate should be sized so your dog can stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Adult dogs should not be crated for more than 6 to 8 hours at a time. Puppies need more frequent breaks based on their age in months.
How long can a dog stay in a crate?
Adult dogs can safely stay in a crate for 6 to 8 hours during the day or overnight. Puppies can hold their bladder for roughly one hour per month of age, up to about 8 hours. Senior dogs or dogs with medical conditions may need more frequent breaks.
What type of crate is best for a puppy?
A wire crate with a divider panel is the best choice for puppies. The divider lets you adjust the interior space as the puppy grows, preventing them from using one end as a bathroom. The MidWest iCrate and Amazon Basics wire crate both include divider panels.
Final Thoughts on the Best Dog Crates
The best dog crates balance safety, durability, and value for your specific dog. For most owners, the MidWest iCrate remains the top overall choice thanks to its divider panel, foldable design, and proven track record with over 191,000 reviews. Budget-conscious buyers get excellent value from the Amazon Basics wire crate, while owners of escape artists should invest in the BOLDBONE heavy-duty crate.
Travelers will find their match in the Petmate Sky Kennel for flights or the EliteField soft crate for road trips. And if aesthetics matter, the New Age Pet ECOFLEX and Feandrea wooden crates prove that the best dog crates in 2026 can look like furniture instead of kennels. Whatever your dog’s size, temperament, and your lifestyle demand, this list has a crate that will keep them safe and comfortable for years.