When I brought home my first puppy three years ago, I had no idea how many decisions went into choosing the right crate. I bought the cheapest wire model at the pet store, and within a week my determined Labrador had bent a panel and squeezed halfway out. That single mistake sent me down a rabbit hole of testing, returning, and eventually recommending dog crates for friends, family, and anyone who would listen.
If you’re searching for the best dog crates in 2026, this guide is built from that hands-on experience. I tested 10 top-selling crates across price points, materials, and use cases — from basic wire models for house training to heavy-duty escape-proof kennels for anxious dogs. I looked at real feedback from over 300,000 Amazon reviews, then cross-checked with veterinarian guidance from the AKC and crash-test data from the Center for Pet Safety.
Below you’ll find the picks that stood up to months of daily use with dogs ranging from 12-lb terriers to 130-lb mastiffs. I’ve included budget options for new puppy owners, premium collapsible crates for travel, and indestructible builds for breeds that treat crates like puzzles. Each product comes with a clear “best for” recommendation so you can match the crate to your dog’s size, temperament, and your home setup.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Dog Crates (October 2026)
MidWest 36-Inch Double Door iCrate
- Best for medium dogs
- Divider panel included
- 80k+ reviews
Best Dog Crates in 2026
1. MidWest 36-Inch Double Door iCrate — Best for Puppies and Medium Dogs
Midwest 36-Inch Double Door iCrate, for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs
Fits 41-70 lb dogs
Double door with divider panel
Folds flat for storage
Pros
- Sturdy metal wire design with e-coat finish
- Includes divider panel for puppy training
- Double door for flexible placement
- Leak-proof removable tray
- Tool-free assembly
Cons
- Side door can be stiff to open
- Some reports of bent wires from shipping
The MidWest iCrate was the first crate I bought after my wire crate disaster, and it has been my most consistent recommendation for new puppy owners ever since. I set it up in my living room in under five minutes, and the divider panel let me reduce the interior space for my 8-week-old Labrador, then expand it as he grew. The slide-bolt latches with the Paw Block feature meant he couldn’t work the door open from the inside, which was a huge relief after my previous escape-artist experience.
What stands out is the consistency across thousands of long-term reviews. With over 80,000 ratings and an 83% five-star score, this crate has earned its spot as the #1 best seller in Basic Dog Crates. The e-coat finish resists rust, the leak-proof tray catches accidents without pooling, and the rounded corner clips prevent snags on fur and paws. I have used the same one for three years with no rust and only a small scratch on the powder coating.
For house training, the divider panel is genuinely useful. I keep the crate sized to my dog’s standing height and length, which mimics the den-like feel that veterinarians recommend. It also folds flat when I travel with my dog to my parents’ house, and the rubber feet protect hardwood floors from scratches. After years of use, the latches still feel secure, and the tray still slides in and out smoothly for cleaning.
The only friction I have run into is the side door — it takes two hands to open and close, which makes it less convenient when I am carrying a leash, treats, and a squirming puppy at the same time. A few customers have also reported bent wires on arrival, so it’s worth inspecting the package before assembly. None of these issues have affected long-term durability in my experience.
For whom its good
This crate is ideal for medium breeds between 41 and 70 pounds, including Beagles, Bulldogs, Cocker Spaniels, and smaller Golden Retrievers. It is also a strong choice for new puppy owners who want a single crate that grows with their dog through the divider panel. If you need a reliable wire crate for everyday home use and don’t plan to use it for airline travel, this is the sweet spot.
For whom its bad
It is not the best pick for dogs that chew aggressively through wire, since the 22-pound construction is sturdy but not indestructible. If your dog is a known escape artist or severe chewer, move up to the heavy-duty Oranland, LEMBERI, or BOLDBONE models. It is also not airline-approved, so you’ll need a separate plastic kennel for cargo travel.
2. Amazon Basics 36-Inch Portable Folding Crate — Best Budget Option
Amazon Basics Portable, Easy to Assemble, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Double Door, Divider Panel, Handle, 36″ x 23″ x 25″, Black
Fits 32-inch pets
Double door design
Folds flat for storage
Pros
- Very sturdy construction at budget price
- 3-point door latch difficult for dogs to open
- Folds flat for easy storage
- No assembly required
- Double door flexible placement
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Directions can be unclear on setup
- Heavy when folded
I was skeptical about Amazon Basics dog crates, but after helping a friend set one up for her French Bulldog, I changed my mind. The wire gauge feels comparable to mid-tier crates from specialty brands, and the 3-point door latch is genuinely tough for dogs to manipulate. Her Bulldog gave up trying to escape after about ten minutes, which is a better result than I have seen with several premium competitors.
At under $60, this is the crate I now recommend to anyone who isn’t sure how long their dog will need a crate. The metal hook on the bottom keeps the tray from sliding out when the dog moves around, which is a small detail but a real one. Setup is essentially unfolding the crate and lifting the side panel — I had it ready in under three minutes with no tools needed.
The 11,800+ reviews average 4.7 stars with 84% five-star ratings, which puts this crate ahead of most premium wire models in customer satisfaction. Owners consistently praise the sturdy build and the door mechanism that actually keeps dogs inside. The fold-flat design is helpful for apartment dwellers who don’t want the crate taking up space during the day.
The main downside is shipping: this crate is not Prime eligible, so delivery takes a few extra days. I also noticed the wire connections can be tight from shipping pressure, so gently working them loose with a flat-head screwdriver during setup is sometimes necessary. The directions are minimal, but the design is straightforward enough that most people won’t need them.
For whom its good
This crate is a great fit for small-to-medium breeds under 32 inches long, including Corgis, French Bulldogs, Brittanys, and Cocker Spaniels. It is also the best choice for first-time dog owners who want to try crate training without committing to a premium price. If you need a reliable wire crate for everyday use and your dog isn’t a serious escape artist, this is the smartest budget pick.
For whom its bad
It is not the right crate for strong chewers or large breeds over 70 pounds. The 22-pound weight is manageable for setup, but the plastic handle feels flimsy compared to MidWest’s built-in handle. If you need a crate for air travel, this is not airline-approved — go with the Petmate Vari Kennel instead.
3. New World 42-Inch Single Door Crate — Best for Large Breeds
New World by Midwest 42-Inch Single Door Crate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs
Fits 71-90 lb dogs
Single door design
MidWest line construction
Pros
- Very spacious for large breed dogs
- Sturdy metal wire construction
- Leak-proof pan easy to clean
- Folds flat for storage
- Good value for size and quality
Cons
- Temporarily out of stock
- Divider panel not included
- Hard to set up alone
The New World 42-inch crate is part of the MidWest family, and it shows in the build quality. I tested this with a 78-pound Boxer mix, and the interior space was generous enough for him to stand, turn, and lie down without touching the sides. The 30-pound weight is significant, but it also means the crate stays put when a strong dog leans into the door.
For large-breed owners, the single door is actually a plus because it provides a wider opening than split double doors. My test dog walked in confidently without hesitating at the threshold, which matters for crate training success. The slide-bolt latch with Paw Block is the same proven mechanism from the iCrate line, and it kept this crate securely closed during three months of daily use.
The 56,993 reviews and 84% five-star rating match what I experienced in person. Customers with Golden Retrievers, Australian Shepherds, and Boxers consistently praise the spacious design and sturdy construction. The leak-proof tray is a bit deeper than competitors, which helps with house training accidents and male dogs who mark.
The biggest limitation is that this crate is currently temporarily out of stock at the time of writing. If you need a crate immediately, the MidWest 42-Inch iCrate below is the closest alternative. The lack of a divider panel also means you need to commit to the adult size up front — this is not a crate to buy for a puppy who will outgrow it.
For whom its good
This crate is ideal for large breeds between 71 and 90 pounds, including Golden Retrievers, Boxers, Australian Shepherds, and Standard Poodles. It is also a strong choice for owners who want a single-door design for a wider entry point. If you’re crate training an adult dog and need a spacious, reliable wire crate, this is a solid pick.
For whom its bad
It is not the best option for puppies who will outgrow the size within a year, since there is no divider panel. It is also not ideal for owners who need to fold and move the crate frequently — at 30 pounds, it takes some effort. If you need a crate for the car, the Petmate Vari is a better choice for portability.
4. MidWest 42-Inch Single Door iCrate — Best Seller
Midwest 42-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs
Fits 71-90 lb dogs
#1 in Basic Dog Crates
Divider panel included
Pros
- #1 Best Seller in Basic Dog Crates
- Divider panel included for puppies
- Very sturdy secure latches
- Leak-proof removable tray
- Folds flat for storage
Cons
- Stock is low - only 2 left
- Single door design
- Minor shipping quality issues
The MidWest 42-Inch iCrate is the #1 best seller in Basic Dog Crates on Amazon with over 111,000 reviews, and after testing it for six months, I understand why. It is the same wire construction as the smaller 36-inch iCrate, scaled up for large breeds, with the added benefit of a divider panel that lets you buy it for a puppy and adjust the space as they grow. I started with my test puppy at the divider setting for an 18-pound dog and moved it out as he matured.
The single door is wider than the front door on the double-door 36-inch model, which makes it easier for large dogs to walk in without crouching. The Paw Block slide-bolt latch system has been unchanged since 2007, and that consistency is what makes MidWest iCrates so reliable. The leak-proof tray is the same design as the smaller crates, and it slides in and out cleanly for daily cleaning.
What separates this crate from competitors is the e-coat finish on the wire. After six months in my humid garage, I have zero rust spots, even near the floor where moisture tends to accumulate. Customers with 111,000+ reviews back this up — 83% of them rate it five stars, and the complaints are almost always about shipping damage rather than long-term durability.
The downside is stock: at the time of writing, only 2 units are left, and more are on the way. If you can grab one before stock runs out, it is currently the best large-breed wire crate on the market. The single door also means the opposite side of the crate is solid, which limits placement flexibility if you want to position the door in a specific direction.
For whom its good
This crate is ideal for large breeds between 71 and 90 pounds, including Golden Retrievers, Boxers, Australian Shepherds, and Standard Poodles. It is also the best choice for new puppy owners who want a crate that grows with their dog through the included divider panel. If you want the most-reviewed, most-trusted wire crate in the category, this is it.
For whom its bad
It is not the right crate for owners who need a double-door design for corner placement, since this model is single door only. It is also not the best option for dogs that chew through wire — for those, the heavy-duty Oranland, LEMBERI, or BOLDBONE are better choices. Be aware of the low stock and act quickly if you want to buy one.
5. LifeStages by MidWest 48-Inch Double Door Crate — Best for XL Breeds
LifeStages by MidWest 48-Inch Double Door Crate, XL Breeds, 90-110 lbs
Fits 90-110 lb dogs
Reinforced wire
Heavy-duty construction
Pros
- Heavy-duty reinforced wire construction
- Double door for flexible placement
- Divider panel included
- Sturdy for large powerful dogs
- Removable leak-proof tray
Cons
- Premium price point
- Stock limited - only 7 left
- Heavy at 50 lbs
- Large size may not fit standard doorways
The LifeStages 48-inch crate is MidWest’s XL breed option, and it is built for the largest dogs in your home. I tested this with a 105-pound German Shepherd, and the reinforced heavier-gauge wire made a noticeable difference compared to the standard iCrate. The 50-pound weight feels substantial, but it also means the crate doesn’t shift when a 100+ pound dog moves around inside it.
The double door design is helpful for placement flexibility, especially in tight corners where a single door would limit access. The divider panel is the same proven design from the smaller iCrates, scaled up to the 48-inch frame. I was able to set this up alone in about eight minutes, which is faster than most competitors in this size class.
Customer reviews back my experience. With 14,610 reviews and 84% five-star ratings, this crate is consistently praised for holding up to large and powerful dogs. The reinforced wire also makes it more escape-resistant than standard crates, though it is not indestructible — for that, you need the heavy-duty steel options below. The 14,610-review count is much smaller than the smaller iCrate models, but the satisfaction rate is the same.
The trade-offs are real. At 50 pounds, this is a heavy crate to move frequently, and the 48-inch assembled dimensions may not fit through standard doorways in some homes. The price is also higher than the smaller iCrates, which makes sense given the reinforced wire but is still a consideration. Stock is limited to 7 units at the time of writing.
For whom its good
This crate is ideal for XL breeds between 90 and 110 pounds, including German Shepherds, Huskies, Collies, and smaller Mastiffs. It is also a strong choice for multi-dog households where you need a single crate that can adapt as dogs grow. If your dog is too large for the standard 42-inch crates but doesn’t need a heavy-duty steel build, this is the right size.
For whom its bad
It is not the best crate for owners in small apartments with narrow doorways — the 48-inch assembled frame requires planning before purchase. It is also not the right choice for severe chewers or escape artists — for those, the Oranland, LEMBERI, or BOLDBONE heavy-duty crates are better. If you need something lighter and easier to move, the MidWest 42-inch iCrate above is a better fit.
6. Amazon Basics 48-Inch Foldable Crate — Best XL Value
Amazon Basics Portable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Divider Panel, Easy to Assemble, for Large Dogs, 48 x 30 x 32.5 in, Black
Fits 46-inch large dogs
48-inch frame
Single door with divider
Pros
- Sturdy metal wire construction
- Easy to assemble
- Foldable for storage
- Divider panel included
- Removable tray for easy cleaning
Cons
- Plastic handle feels flimsy
- Instructions could be clearer
- Single door design
The Amazon Basics 48-inch crate is the value alternative to MidWest’s LifeStages for owners of large breeds who don’t need reinforced wire. I tested this with a 95-pound Labrador, and the standard wire gauge was sufficient for her daily use as a den and feeding station. The 40-pound weight is lighter than the LifeStages, which made it easier for me to move around the house when needed.
At under $95, this crate delivers most of what the MidWest 48-inch offers at a noticeably lower price point. The fold-flat design is the same concept as other wire crates, and the tray slides out for easy cleaning. The 18,110 reviews and 4.7-star average rating suggest that customers broadly agree with my experience.
For owners of XL breeds on a budget, this is the most practical option in the category. The 48-inch frame accommodates dogs up to 46 inches long, including Bernese Mountain Dogs, Labradors, Rottweilers, and smaller Great Danes. The single door design is wider than the typical double-door configuration, which makes it easier for large dogs to enter.
The main compromise is the plastic handle, which feels lighter than the integrated metal handle on the MidWest crates. The directions are also minimal, similar to the smaller Amazon Basics crate. For most owners, these are minor trade-offs compared to the savings, but if you need a heavy-duty crate for an aggressive chewer, move up to the heavy-duty steel options.
For whom its good
This crate is ideal for large breeds between 80 and 110 pounds, including Labs, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Rottweilers, and smaller Great Danes. It is also the best value pick for XL dog owners who want a reliable wire crate without paying premium prices. If you want a foldable crate with a divider panel for growing puppies, this is a strong choice.
For whom its bad
It is not the best option for severe escape artists or dogs that chew through wire, since the standard gauge is not reinforced. If your dog has broken out of a wire crate before, the heavy-duty steel models are a better investment. The plastic handle is also less durable than the MidWest integrated handle, so plan to grab the crate by the frame when moving.
7. Petmate Vari Dog Kennel — Best for Travel
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel, Carrier for Large Dogs, 36in, Taupe and Black
Airline-friendly design
Plastic shell
Fits 50-70 lb dogs
Pros
- Airline-friendly design
- Durable plastic construction
- Easy to clean
- No tools needed for assembly
- Four-sided ventilation
Cons
- Curved interior reduces usable space
- Some quality inconsistencies reported
The Petmate Vari Kennel is the only crate in this roundup that is airline-approved, which makes it the clear choice for owners who travel by air with their dogs. I tested this with a 65-pound mixed breed, and the four-sided ventilation kept her comfortable during a 5-hour car ride in summer. The plastic shell is much easier to clean than wire crates, especially after messy accidents on the road.
Unlike wire crates, the Vari Kennel has a stay-dry moat around the perimeter that channels liquid away from the dog. This is a small detail but a real one when traveling with a dog who gets carsick or has accidents in the crate. The tamper-proof holes for zip ties also let you secure the door for extra safety in vehicles or cargo holds.
Customer reviews are mostly positive, with 7,627 reviews and a 4.5-star average rating. The caveats are minor: the curved interior reduces the usable space compared to a rectangular wire crate, so the actual fit for your dog may be slightly tighter than the listed dimensions. Some customers have also reported inconsistent quality control, with rough edges on the plastic shell that need filing down.
For most travel purposes, this is the most reliable plastic kennel on the market. The 60-year brand history from Petmate also means replacement parts and accessories are widely available, which is a plus for long-term owners. If you fly with your dog, this is the only realistic choice in the roundup.
For whom its good
This crate is ideal for dogs between 50 and 70 pounds who travel frequently by car or air. It is also the right choice for owners who want a crate that is easy to clean after messy accidents, since the plastic shell wipes down in seconds. If you need an airline-approved kennel for cargo travel, this is the most trusted option at this price.
For whom its bad
It is not the best option for owners who want to fold the crate flat for storage, since the plastic shell is rigid. It is also not ideal for dogs that run hot, since the four-sided ventilation is good but not as open as a wire crate. If your dog needs a den-like environment with maximum visibility, the wire crates are better choices.
8. Oranland 48-Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate — Most Durable
Oranland 48 Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate,Upgraded Baseplate for Large Dogs
300 lb load capacity
20-gauge steel
48-inch frame
Pros
- Extremely sturdy heavy-duty construction
- Escape-proof for aggressive chewers
- Easy to clean with removable trays
- Lockable wheels for mobility
- High 300 lb load capacity
Cons
- Very heavy at 84 lbs
- Instructions could be clearer
- Hard to assemble alone
The Oranland 48-inch heavy-duty crate is what I turn to when a dog owner has tried everything else and the dog has broken through it. I tested this with a 130-pound Cane Corso who had previously bent three wire crates, and the 20-gauge steel panels and 1.2-inch diameter steel piping stopped him cold. The reinforced baseplate is rated for 300 pounds, which is more than enough for any dog.
The build quality is unmatched in this price range. The 84-pound weight is significant, but it also means the crate stays put when even the strongest dog pushes against the door. The lockable 360-degree caster wheels let me roll it from the garage to the living room without lifting, which is a real benefit when moving a crate this heavy.
Customer reviews confirm my experience. With 812 reviews and a 4.5-star average rating, this crate is consistently praised for strength and durability. Owners report success with breeds like Rottweilers, Pit Bulls, and German Shepherds who had previously escaped from wire crates. The 30-day satisfaction guarantee also provides peace of mind for first-time buyers.
The trade-offs are weight and setup. At 84 pounds, this is one of the heaviest crates in the roundup, and the assembly is challenging for one person even with the pre-assembled parts. The instructions are also minimal, so I recommend watching a YouTube assembly video before starting. For most owners, this is a one-time setup, but it’s worth knowing upfront.
For whom its good
This crate is ideal for large or XL breeds over 80 pounds, including Mastiffs, Cane Corsos, Rottweilers, and Great Danes. It is also the best choice for owners of dogs who have escaped from wire crates and need a true escape-proof build. If your dog has broken through standard crates, this is the most reliable upgrade.
For whom its bad
It is not the best fit for owners who want a crate they can fold flat for storage, since the steel construction is rigid. It is also not ideal for people who move frequently, since the 84-pound weight requires planning for transport. If you don’t need the heavy-duty build, the less expensive wire crates are easier to live with.
9. LEMBERI 48-Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate — Best for Escape Artists
LEMBERI 48″ Heavy Duty Dog Crate for Large Dogs, Black
500 lb capacity
20-gauge steel
Dual-door escape-proof build
Pros
- Escape-proof for Houdini-type dogs
- Very sturdy construction
- Dual-door design for access
- Wheels with locks included
- Rust and chew-resistant coating
Cons
- Some wheel durability issues reported
- Heavy without wheels
The LEMBERI 48-inch heavy-duty crate is the most recommended escape-proof crate in my conversations with dog trainers. I tested this with a Belgian Malinois who had busted out of two wire crates by bending the panels, and the LEMBERI held up during a full month of testing. The 20-gauge steel panels and 0.8-inch reinforced steel tubes are mounted in a way that prevents the bowing motion that most dogs exploit to break wire crates.
The 500-pound load capacity is the highest in the roundup, and the rust-resistant multi-layer coating has held up well during my testing in a humid garage. The dual-door configuration is helpful for placement flexibility, and the low-threshold front door makes it easier for older dogs to step inside. The 360-degree industrial swivel casters also let me roll the crate around without lifting.
With 4,318 reviews and a 4.6-star average rating, customer feedback strongly supports my experience. Owners of high-anxiety breeds like Huskies, German Shepherds, and Belgian Malinois consistently report success with this crate. The dual-door design is also a real convenience for daily use, since I can open the side door for treats without reaching over the dog.
The main complaints I have seen are about wheel durability — a few customers have reported that the casters wear out after a year of heavy use, especially on rough surfaces. At 82 pounds, this crate is also too heavy to move without the wheels. Neither of these issues affects the core escape-proof function, which is the main reason to buy this crate.
For whom its good
This crate is ideal for high-anxiety breeds and known escape artists, including Huskies, Belgian Malinois, German Shepherds, and Pit Bulls. It is also the best choice for owners who want a dual-door design for flexible placement and easier access. If you have tried every other crate and your dog has broken out, this is the most reliable upgrade.
For whom its bad
It is not the best fit for owners who want a crate that folds flat for storage, since the steel construction is rigid. The wheels, while helpful, are the weakest point of the build and may need replacement after extended use. If you don’t need the escape-proof build, the lighter wire crates are easier to live with day-to-day.
10. BOLDBONE 48-Inch Heavy Duty Indestructible Crate — Best for Anxiety
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
20-gauge steel frame
0.5-inch tubes
Double slide bolt latches
Pros
- Indestructible and escape-proof build
- Double slide bolt latches
- Easy to assemble by one person
- Hammer-tone rust-resistant coating
- Double doors with low thresholds
Cons
- Divider not practical for two large dogs
- Vague instructions
The BOLDBONE 48-inch heavy-duty crate is the most user-friendly of the three steel crates in this roundup. I tested this with a 110-pound German Shepherd who had been crate-reactive after a bad experience, and the wide-opening double doors with low thresholds let him walk in without hesitation. The 0.5-inch steel tubes and 20-gauge frame held up against his initial push-and-shove testing period.
What separates the BOLDBONE from the heavier Oranland and LEMBERI is the one-person assembly. I set this up in under 10 minutes by myself, which is faster than the other heavy-duty crates. The hammer-tone coating is also more attractive than the plain black on most competitors, and it has held up well against rust in my garage.
Customer reviews are positive, with 2,649 reviews and a 4.6-star average rating. Owners consistently praise the easy assembly and the sturdy construction. The 360-degree swivel caster wheels with brakes are a thoughtful addition, and the double slide bolt latches provide double the security of single-latch designs.
The main trade-off is the weight: at 58 pounds, this is lighter than the Oranland and LEMBERI but still heavier than wire crates. The instructions are also vague, though the pre-assembled design makes this less of an issue than with competitors. For most owners, the trade-off is worth it for the easier setup.
For whom its good
This crate is ideal for large breeds between 80 and 130 pounds, including German Shepherds, Huskies, Pit Bulls, and smaller Mastiffs. It is also the best choice for owners who want a heavy-duty crate that one person can assemble without help. If your dog has anxiety around crates or has broken out of wire models, this is a strong step up.
For whom its bad
It is not the best option for owners who want a crate that folds flat for storage, since the steel construction is rigid. The 58-pound weight is also heavier than wire crates, so plan for placement before assembly. If you need the absolute maximum load capacity, the LEMBERI at 500 pounds is a more extreme choice.
How to Choose the Best Dog Crate for Your Dog
Choosing the best dog crate starts with measuring your dog correctly. The AKC recommends adding 2 to 4 inches to your dog’s height at the shoulder and 2 to 4 inches to their length from chest to rump. A properly sized crate lets your dog stand without crouching, turn around, and lie down comfortably. If your dog is a puppy, look for a crate with a divider panel so it can grow with them without giving them too much space early on.
For wire crates, the gauge of the wire matters significantly. Standard wire crates use 8 to 12 gauge wire, which works for most calm dogs. Heavy-duty crates use 20-gauge steel panels or thicker piping, which is essential for powerful breeds or escape artists. Plastic crates like the Petmate Vari are typically airline-approved but offer less visibility and ventilation.
Material choice depends on your use case. Wire crates are the most versatile for home use, easy to clean, and foldable for storage. Plastic crates are required for airline travel and are easier to wipe down after accidents. Heavy-duty steel crates are the only reliable option for severe chewers and high-anxiety dogs, but they are heavier and don’t fold.
What size crate does my dog need?
To find the right crate size, measure your dog’s length from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail, then add 2 to 4 inches. Measure their height from the floor to the top of their head while standing, and add 2 to 4 inches to that as well. Your dog should be able to stand in the crate without crouching, turn around comfortably, and lie down on their side without being cramped.
For puppies, choose a crate that fits their adult size and use a divider panel to adjust the interior space as they grow. This prevents house training accidents that come from giving a puppy too much room, which they may use as a bathroom area. The MidWest iCrates, Amazon Basics wire crates, and Oranland, LEMBERI, and BOLDBONE heavy-duty crates all include divider panels.
Wire vs plastic vs heavy-duty steel
Wire crates are the most popular option for everyday home use. They offer the best ventilation, are easy to fold for storage, and include divider panels for growing puppies. The main downsides are that they can collect fur in the wire joints and are not airline-approved for cargo travel.
Plastic crates are required for airline travel and are easier to wipe clean than wire models. They are also more enclosed, which can help anxious dogs feel more secure in a den-like environment. The downsides are reduced ventilation and the inability to fold flat for storage.
Heavy-duty steel crates are the only reliable option for severe chewers, escape artists, and high-anxiety dogs. They are heavier and more expensive than wire or plastic crates, but they are the only models that can withstand the force of a 100+ pound dog trying to break out. The Oranland, LEMBERI, and BOLDBONE crates in this roundup are the best heavy-duty options.
Safety and crash-test considerations
For car travel, a regular wire crate is not crash-tested and may not protect your dog in an accident. The Center for Pet Safety has certified a small number of crates specifically for crash safety, most of which are made by Gunner Kennels and Ruff Land. These crates use rotomolded plastic construction with reinforced tie-down points and are significantly more expensive than the crates in this roundup.
If you transport your dog in the car regularly, securing the crate with a seatbelt or cargo strap is essential regardless of which crate you choose. A loose crate in a vehicle is a projectile risk in a sudden stop, even at low speeds. For owners who need a crash-tested option, the Gunner G1 and Ruff Land Performance Kennels are the most trusted choices, though they cost significantly more than the crates in this roundup.
Multi-pet household considerations
For households with multiple dogs, plan for one crate per dog. Even dogs that get along well can become protective of crate space, and forced sharing can lead to fights. The wire crates in this roundup are the most space-efficient for stacking or placing side-by-side in a dedicated dog room.
If you need crates that can be moved around the house, the heavy-duty steel options with lockable wheels are the most practical. They are heavier than wire crates, but the wheels eliminate the need to lift. For travel with multiple dogs, the Petmate Vari Kennel is airline-approved but only one dog per kennel, so you may need multiple kennels for air travel.
Senior dog and climate considerations
Senior dogs may need extra consideration when choosing a crate. Look for low-threshold doors that are easier to step over, especially for dogs with arthritis or mobility issues. The BOLDBONE double doors with low thresholds are the most senior-friendly option in this roundup. Avoid wire crates with high thresholds that dogs need to lift their legs over.
For outdoor use or hot climates, wire crates provide the best ventilation, but they offer no protection from sun or rain. Heavy-duty steel crates can be placed in covered areas but should not be in direct sunlight, as the metal can heat up quickly. Plastic crates are the most insulated for cold climates but can trap heat in warm weather. Always provide shade and water regardless of crate type.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best brand of dog crate?
MidWest Homes for Pets is the most trusted brand for everyday wire crates, with over 100,000 reviews on the 42-inch iCrate and decades of consistent quality. For heavy-duty and escape-proof builds, brands like Oranland, LEMBERI, and BOLDBONE lead the category. For airline travel, Petmate is the most widely accepted plastic kennel brand.
Do vets recommend dog crates?
Yes, most veterinarians recommend crate training as a useful tool for house training, safe travel, and providing dogs with a den-like space. The American Kennel Club and most veterinary behaviorists endorse crate training when done correctly. The key is choosing the right size crate and never using it as punishment.
Do dogs prefer open or closed crates?
Most dogs prefer enclosed, den-like crates rather than open wire pens. The enclosed space mimics a natural den environment that dogs instinctively seek out for safety and rest. Wire crates with a cover or blanket over the top and sides often work better than fully exposed crates for anxious dogs.
Where should a new dog sleep the first night?
Place the crate in your bedroom for the first few nights so your new dog can hear and smell you. This reduces separation anxiety and helps with house training, since most puppies will whine or stir when they need to go out. After a week or two, gradually move the crate to its permanent location if it is not in your bedroom.
Final Verdict on the Best Dog Crates
After testing 10 of the best dog crates on the market for over six months, the MidWest 36-Inch Double Door iCrate remains my top pick for most dog owners. It is the most reliable wire crate in the roundup, with over 80,000 reviews and a #1 best-seller ranking in Basic Dog Crates. The divider panel lets you buy it for a puppy and grow the space as your dog matures, and the e-coat finish holds up to years of use.
For owners on a budget, the Amazon Basics 36-Inch Portable Folding Crate delivers the same core functionality at a lower price, with over 11,000 reviews and an 84% five-star rating. For large breeds, the MidWest 42-Inch Single Door iCrate is the most trusted option with over 111,000 reviews. For travel, the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel is the only airline-approved kennel in the roundup. And for severe chewers or escape artists, the Oranland, LEMBERI, and BOLDBONE heavy-duty crates are the only reliable options.
Whatever crate you choose, the most important factor is sizing it correctly. Use the AKC’s measurement guidelines, factor in your dog’s adult size if you have a puppy, and start with short training sessions to build positive associations. The right crate will become your dog’s safe space for years to come. For more information on pet safety and crate training, check with your veterinarian and the American Kennel Club’s training resources.