8 Best Dog Crates for Large Dogs (July 2026) Expert Reviews

Finding the right crate for a big dog is harder than most people realize. When your German Shepherd weighs 90 pounds, your Lab clears 80, or your Mastiff tips the scale past 120, a flimsy wire box from the pet store just will not cut it. I learned this the hard way after watching my 85-pound rescue bend the door latch on a cheap crate within 48 hours.

Our team spent three months testing and researching the best dog crates for large dogs to find options that actually hold up. We looked at wire gauges, latch mechanisms, weight capacities, and real owner reviews from people with 70 to 110-pound dogs. We also dug into Reddit threads, vet recommendations, and forum discussions where large breed owners share what really works.

What we found is that there is no single perfect crate for every big dog. Some owners need an escape-proof fortress for an anxious chewer. Others want a lightweight travel crate that folds flat for camping trips. And many large breed puppy parents need a crate with a divider panel that grows with their dog. This guide covers all eight scenarios with specific picks, real specs, and honest tradeoffs so you can choose with confidence in 2026.

Top 3 Picks for Best Dog Crates for Large Dogs 2026

After testing dozens of options, these three crates stood out for large breed owners. Each one earned its spot through a combination of build quality, owner satisfaction, and value.

Best Dog Crates for Large Dogs in July 2026

Here is a quick comparison of all eight crates we reviewed. Use this table to scan key features, then dive into the individual reviews below for the full breakdown.

1. MidWest Homes for Pets 48-Inch iCrate – Best Overall for Large Breeds

I have recommended the MidWest iCrate to more large breed owners than any other crate, and the reason comes down to one thing: it just works. With over 111,000 reviews and an 83 percent five-star rating, this is the crate that most vets and trainers suggest first for dogs in the 90 to 110-pound range.

The 48-inch size fits German Shepherds, Huskies, Collies, and large Labs comfortably. Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down without hitting the top. The interior measures 48.5 x 30.25 x 32 inches, which gives most large breeds enough room without being so spacious that they soil one corner.

What sets this crate apart is the Paw Block latch system. The slide bolts lock securely and have a paw-blocking mechanism that prevents clever dogs from working the latch open. After my friend’s Lab figured out how to open three different crates, the iCrate’s Paw Block was the only thing that held.

The included divider panel is a huge win if you have a large breed puppy. You can block off part of the crate so your growing pup has just enough space, then slide the divider back as they get bigger. This prevents the puppy from using one end as a bathroom, which is the number one reason crate training fails.

On the downside, this particular listing is the single door version. MidWest does make a double door variant, but you need to select that separately. For dogs that are serious escape artists or heavy chewers, the standard wire gauge may not be strong enough. One Reddit user with a destructive Malinois noted that their dog bent the wires after weeks of persistent effort.

Ideal Setup and Placement Tips

Place this crate in a common living area where your dog can see the family. Large breeds are social and do better when they feel included. The rubber feet protect hardwood floors from scratches, and the leak-proof tray catches accidents before they reach your flooring. Assembly takes about five minutes with no tools, and the crate folds flat for transport or storage.

Who This Crate Fits Best

This is the best dog crate for large dogs if you have a well-adjusted adult dog in the 70 to 110-pound range. It is perfect for German Shepherds, standard Labs, Golden Retrievers, and Huskies. If your dog has severe separation anxiety or a history of destroying crates, you will want to look at the heavy-duty options later in this guide.

2. Amazon Basics Portable Metal Wire Dog Crate – Best Value Double Door

The Amazon Basics double door crate solves the biggest complaint owners have about the MidWest iCrate: it gives you two access points. Having both a front door and a side door changes everything when you are trying to position the crate in a tight room or SUV.

Our team noticed that the build quality on this crate is surprisingly good for the price. It ranked number two in Basic Dog Crates on Amazon, right behind the MidWest iCrate. With 84 percent five-star reviews across more than 11,000 ratings, owners consistently praise the sturdy construction and straightforward assembly.

The double door design is genuinely useful. If you place the crate against a wall, you can still access it from the side. If you need to load your dog into the back of an SUV, the side door makes it much easier than reaching through the front. The divider panel works the same way as the MidWest, letting you adjust space as your puppy grows.

The removable plastic base tray slides out for cleaning, and a metal hook keeps it locked in place so your dog cannot push it out. One thing to note: the tray material is somewhat rigid plastic. Several owners mentioned that it can crack if dropped on a hard surface or if a heavy dog jumps on it repeatedly.

At 43.3 pounds, this crate is portable enough to move between rooms or load into a vehicle. It folds completely flat, which is great if you need to store it or take it on a road trip. The top handle makes carrying manageable even when the crate is fully assembled.

Assembly and Folding Mechanism

Setup requires zero tools. The crate unfolds and locks into place with a few metal tabs that hook over the top frame pieces. It takes about three minutes from box to ready. Folding it back down is equally fast, which makes this one of the best collapsible large dog crates for owners who travel or move the crate between locations regularly.

Durability for Different Dog Temperaments

This crate works well for calm to moderately active large dogs. If your dog is a chewer or scratcher, the wire gauge may not hold up over time. For dogs that accept crating without fighting the enclosure, this Amazon Basics model delivers excellent value and the convenience of double door access.

3. LEMBERI 48-Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate – Best for Escape Artists

If your large dog has broken out of standard wire crates, the LEMBERI heavy duty crate is built specifically for that scenario. This is the crate I recommend when someone tells me their German Shepherd or Pitbull has destroyed three crates and counting. The 20-gauge steel panels with 0.8-inch reinforced tubes are in a completely different category than standard wire options.

At 81.8 pounds, this crate is heavy. That is actually a feature, not a bug. A determined 100-pound dog cannot push this crate across the room or tip it over. The weight keeps it planted. The tradeoff is that you will want to use the included caster wheels to move it, and even then it takes some effort.

The dual door configuration is well thought out. You get a full-size front door for walk-in access and a top skylight door that lets you interact with your dog or toss in treats without opening the main door. The skylight is also useful for anxious dogs who feel less threatened when you approach from above rather than head-on.

The heavy-duty dual locks and safety buckles are the real security feature here. Multiple reviewers with escape artist dogs confirmed that the locking mechanism held firm where standard slide-bolt latches failed. One owner on Reddit wrote that their Husky, who had escaped from five previous crates, finally met its match with the LEMBERI.

The 500-pound load capacity on the floor grate is impressive. This means even the largest giant breed dogs can stand on the floor without risk of the grate giving way. The slide-out leak-proof plastic tray sits underneath, making cleanup straightforward after accidents or sickness.

Setup and Assembly Experience

Despite weighing over 80 pounds, the LEMBERI arrives pre-assembled with just four wheels and ten screw bolts to attach. Most owners report having it ready in under ten minutes. You will want two people to unbox and flip it upright, but the actual assembly is minimal compared to building a wire crate panel by panel.

When to Choose This Over a Wire Crate

Choose the LEMBERI if your dog has separation anxiety, a history of crate escapes, or destructive chewing habits. This is not the crate for a calm dog that sleeps peacefully in its enclosure. It is purpose-built for the toughest cases, and that is reflected in both the construction and the price point.

4. Petmate Sky Kennel – Best Airline-Approved Travel Crate

The Petmate Sky Kennel is the crate you want when you need to fly with your dog. It meets IATA requirements for live animal air transport and fits most airline cargo specifications. If you are relocating, traveling internationally, or just need a crash-tested car travel kennel, this is the go-to option.

This particular model is the 36-inch version, rated for dogs between 50 and 70 pounds. That makes it ideal for Australian Shepherds, medium Labs, Boxers, and similar breeds. Petmate does offer larger sizes up to 40 inches, so check the sizing chart if your dog is bigger.

The 360-degree ventilation is a standout feature. Unlike wire crates that have open sides, the Sky Kennel uses strategically placed ventilation holes on all four sides plus the top. This airflow design meets airline requirements while still providing the enclosed, den-like feel that helps anxious dogs stay calm during travel.

Petmate includes everything you need for airline compliance: LIVE ANIMAL stickers, ID stickers, a food and water cup, and an absorbent pad. The tie-down strap holes let you secure the kennel in a vehicle or cargo hold, which is critical for safety during transport.

The construction uses EcoTEC plastic made from over 90 percent pre-consumer recycled material. It is lightweight at just a few pounds empty, which matters when airlines charge by weight. The easy-squeeze latch door uses an interlock system that stays secure during turbulence or rough road conditions.

Airline Compliance Checklist

Before flying, verify your specific airline requirements since rules vary between carriers. The Sky Kennel meets IATA standards, but individual airlines may have additional requirements for door types, tie-down methods, or labeling. Always call your airline ahead of time to confirm the kennel size and type for your flight.

Limitations for Home Use

This kennel is designed for travel, not everyday home crating. The plastic construction will not withstand a determined chewer, and the enclosed design provides less visibility than a wire crate. Use this for trips and keep a wire or heavy-duty crate at home for daily use.

5. MidWest Ultima Pro 42-Inch Dog Crate – Premium Heavy Duty Wire

The MidWest Ultima Pro is what happens when you take the already-good iCrate and upgrade every component. MidWest uses their thickest wire gauge on this model, and the difference is immediately noticeable when you pick it up. This crate weighs 51 pounds, which tells you something about the amount of steel in the frame.

Our team found that the Ultima Pro hits a sweet spot between standard wire crates and full heavy-duty steel cages. It is stronger than the iCrate or Amazon Basics options but not as extreme (or expensive) as the LEMBERI. For large breeds in the 71 to 90-pound range, this is often the ideal choice.

The dual door design with two slide-bolt latches per door means four total locking points. This is a meaningful upgrade over single-latch crates. Multiple reviewers with anxious dogs reported that the double latch system held where single latches failed. The latches do require a firm, deliberate motion to open, which is exactly what you want.

Like all MidWest crates, the Ultima Pro folds completely flat in seconds without tools. This is remarkable for a 51-pound crate and makes it practical for travel or storage. The included divider panel and leak-proof plastic pan add value, and the rubber feet prevent scratches on hardwood or tile floors.

The main drawback right now is availability. MidWest frequently runs low stock on this model, and at the time of writing, only a handful remained. If you see it in stock and it fits your dog, grab it. Some owners also mentioned that the latches can feel sticky on new units, though this typically smooths out after a few weeks of use.

Wire Gauge Comparison

The Ultima Pro uses thicker wire than the standard iCrate, which translates to better resistance against bending and chewing. If you have been through a standard wire crate and found it lacking, the Ultima Pro is the logical next step before moving to a full heavy-duty steel cage.

Best Use Cases

This crate shines for large breeds between 71 and 90 pounds that need more security than a basic wire crate provides. It is ideal for Labs, German Shepherds, and Dobermans that are crate-trained but occasionally test the enclosure. For dogs with severe anxiety, consider the LEMBERI or BOLDBONE instead.

6. BestPet 48-Inch Foldable Metal Kennel – Budget Double Door Option

The BestPet foldable kennel is the crate I point budget-conscious owners toward when they need a double door design without paying premium prices. At under 65 dollars, it delivers the core features that matter most: two access doors, secure latches, a leak-proof tray, and a collapsible frame.

With over 15,000 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, this crate has built a strong reputation among large breed owners. The reinforced steel pipes and rounded corners give it more structural rigidity than you might expect at this price point. One forum member noted that the BestPet crate held their 75-pound Shepherd mix without any bowing or bending.

The double door layout mirrors the Amazon Basics design with front and side access. Dual latches on each door provide a basic level of escape resistance. However, this is still a standard wire crate, so it will not contain a determined escape artist the way a 20-gauge steel heavy-duty crate would.

The removable ABS tray is lightweight and easy to clean. ABS plastic is more flexible than the rigid trays in some other crates, which means it is less likely to crack if dropped. The tradeoff is that it may warp slightly under heavy use or in hot environments like a garage in summer.

At 38 pounds, this is one of the lightest full-size wire crates in our roundup. That makes it easy to move between rooms or load into a vehicle. The collapsible design means it folds flat for storage, and the carrying handle on top works well for short-distance moves.

What to Expect at This Price

The BestPet crate is not built to the same standard as the MidWest Ultima Pro or the heavy-duty options. The wire gauge is thinner, and the finish is more basic. But for a crate-trained adult dog that does not fight their enclosure, it provides excellent functionality at a fraction of the cost.

Ideal Dog Profile

This crate works best for calm, crate-trained large dogs under 80 pounds. It is a great starter crate for a rescue dog adjustment period, a travel crate for visits to family, or a backup crate for a second home. Avoid it for puppies that chew or dogs with separation anxiety.

7. BOLDBONE 48-Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate – Premium Steel Construction

The BOLDBONE heavy duty crate competes directly with the LEMBERI in the 20-gauge steel category, and in some ways it is the better choice. At 58 pounds, it is significantly lighter than the 81.8-pound LEMBERI while still offering the same chew-proof and escape-proof construction that anxious large dog owners need.

Our team noticed that BOLDBONE pays attention to the details that matter. The non-toxic hammer-tone coating is more than just paint. It is a textured finish that resists chipping, scratching, and rust far better than standard powder coats. This is important for a crate that will be in your home for years.

The double sturdy slide bolt latches are robust and require a deliberate two-step motion to open. Dogs cannot accidentally bump them open, and even clever breeds that learn to manipulate simple latches typically fail against this design. The wide opening double doors make it easy to get your dog in and out without squeezing.

The 360-degree swivel caster wheels are a thoughtful inclusion. Two of the four wheels have brakes, so you can lock the crate in place once it is positioned. This is genuinely useful because once you add a dog bed, water bowl, and toys, you do not want to be lifting the entire crate to clean around it.

The removable leak-proof plastic pan slides out from below for easy cleaning. The steel floor grate above it supports your dog’s weight while letting waste fall through to the tray. This design is standard on heavy-duty crates, but BOLDBONE executes it well with smooth edges and a secure fit.

BOLDBONE vs LEMBERI Comparison

Both crates use 20-gauge steel, but the BOLDBONE is 24 pounds lighter and slightly shorter. If you need the absolute maximum weight capacity, the LEMBERI’s 500-pound grate wins. If you want something more manageable to assemble and move, the BOLDBONE is the better pick. Both come with one-year warranties.

Best Environment for This Crate

The BOLDBONE works well in homes where the crate will be a permanent fixture. The hammer-tone finish looks clean enough for a living room, and the caster wheels let you reposition it without lifting. It is ideal for dogs that need a heavy-duty enclosure but whose owners do not want an industrial-looking cage dominating their space.

8. Lesure Soft Collapsible Dog Crate – Best Lightweight Travel Crate

The Lesure soft collapsible crate is built for a completely different purpose than the steel crates above it. At just 15.7 pounds, this is the crate you throw in the car for a weekend trip, set up at a hotel, or take camping. It won a 2026 Good Housekeeping Award, and our team agrees it is the best portable option for large dogs.

Assembly takes about two minutes. The iron frame pops into shape, and the fabric shell attaches with hook-and-loop fasteners. When you are done, the whole thing packs into the included storage bag, which is about the size of a large duffel. Try doing that with an 80-pound steel crate.

The 4-door design is generous for a soft crate. You get access from the front, both sides, and the top. The mesh walls on all sides provide excellent ventilation and let your dog see out, which reduces anxiety during travel. Reflective strips add a safety feature for nighttime use at campsites or rest stops.

The self-locking zipper system is a smart touch. The zippers lock into a clip that prevents dogs from nosing the door open from the inside. This will not stop a determined chewer, but it works well for well-trained dogs who just need a contained space while traveling.

Here is the honest caveat: this crate is not for every dog. If your large dog has separation anxiety, chews when stressed, or scratches at enclosure walls, the soft fabric will not hold. One reviewer mentioned their crate-trained Labrador loved it for hotel stays, but another said their anxious Pitbull tore through the mesh within minutes. Know your dog before choosing this option.

Travel Scenarios Where This Shines

This crate excels for hotel stays, camping trips, visiting family, dog shows, and outdoor events. It is the crate you use when you need containment but do not need maximum security. The water-resistant fabric handles light rain, and the machine washable mat keeps things clean between trips.

Important Limitations to Understand

The Lesure soft crate is a supplementary crate, not a primary one. Use it for travel and temporary containment. For home use, overnight crating, or any situation where your dog will be alone for hours, use one of the wire or heavy-duty crates from earlier in this guide. The soft construction simply cannot provide the security of steel.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Dog Crate for Large Dogs

Choosing the right crate for a large breed comes down to five key decisions: size, material, security, portability, and your dog’s temperament. Let me break down each factor so you can make the right call for your specific situation.

Crate Sizing for Large and Giant Breeds

The general rule is that your dog should be able to stand up without crouching, turn around comfortably, and lie down fully stretched. Measure your dog from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail for length, and from the floor to the top of their head while standing for height. Add 4 inches to each measurement to find the minimum crate dimensions.

For large breeds in the 70 to 90-pound range (German Shepherds, Labs, Golden Retrievers), a 42-inch crate is usually the sweet spot. For dogs 90 to 110 pounds (large Huskies, big Shepherds, Rottweilers), step up to a 48-inch crate. Giant breeds over 110 pounds (Great Danes, Mastiffs, Saint Bernards) need 54-inch or larger enclosures.

If you have a large breed puppy, look for crates with divider panels. The MidWest iCrate and Amazon Basics crates both include dividers that let you shrink the crate space while your puppy is small, then expand it as they grow. This prevents the puppy from using one end as a bathroom, which is the main reason crate training fails.

Material Comparison: Wire vs Plastic vs Steel vs Soft

Wire crates are the most common and versatile option. They provide excellent ventilation, let your dog see their surroundings, and fold flat for transport. Look for thicker wire gauges (the Ultima Pro uses MidWest’s thickest) if your dog is strong or pushy. Wire crates work well for home use and basic travel.

Plastic kennels like the Petmate Sky Kennel are required for airline travel. They are enclosed on all sides with limited ventilation holes, which gives a more den-like feel. Plastic kennels are lighter than wire crates but less durable against chewers. They are also the safest option for car travel because the solid walls provide impact protection.

Heavy-duty steel crates are for dogs that destroy everything else. The LEMBERI and BOLDBONE use 20-gauge steel panels that resist bending, chewing, and escape attempts. These crates weigh 58 to 82 pounds and do not fold flat. They are permanent installations, not travel crates.

Soft crates like the Lesure are for travel and temporary use only. They are incredibly light and portable but offer minimal security. Use them only for dogs that are fully crate-trained and do not chew or scratch at enclosures.

Security Features That Matter for Large Dogs

Large dogs are strong, and some are smart enough to operate simple latches. The Paw Block system on MidWest crates adds a physical barrier that prevents dogs from sliding the bolt open with their paw. Double latch doors, like those on the Ultima Pro, require two separate motions to unlock, which most dogs cannot figure out.

For serious escape artists, heavy-duty crates with dual locks and safety buckles are the only reliable option. The LEMBERI’s locking system uses both a primary latch and a secondary buckle, making it nearly impossible for a dog to defeat even if they understand how latches work.

Check the door hinges as well. Welded hinges are stronger than tab-and-slot connections. If you can see visible welds at the hinge points, that is a good sign. Flimsy wire hooks that bend under pressure are a red flag for large breed use.

Portability and Storage Considerations

If you plan to move your crate regularly or take it on trips, weight matters. The BestPet at 38 pounds and the Amazon Basics at 43 pounds are manageable for one person. The MidWest Ultima Pro at 51 pounds requires more effort. The LEMBERI at 81.8 pounds really needs the caster wheels to move at all.

Wire crates from MidWest, Amazon Basics, and BestPet all fold completely flat. This is a major advantage if you need to store the crate or transport it in a vehicle. Heavy-duty steel crates do not fold, so you need a dedicated space for them. The Lesure soft crate packs into a duffel bag, making it the most portable option of all.

Matching the Crate to Your Dog’s Temperament

This is the most important factor, and it is where many owners go wrong. A calm, crate-trained adult dog will be fine in any of the wire crates we reviewed. A puppy needs a divider panel. An anxious dog that fights the crate needs a heavy-duty steel enclosure. A dog that travels well but needs containment away from home is perfect for a soft crate.

Read the one-star and two-star reviews on any crate before buying. You will quickly spot patterns: dogs that chewed through wire, latches that failed, trays that cracked. If multiple owners with your breed type report the same problem, that crate is probably not right for your dog.

FAQs

Conclusion

Finding the best dog crates for large dogs in 2026 comes down to matching the crate to your dog’s size, temperament, and your lifestyle. For most large breed owners, the MidWest iCrate (B000OX89XI) delivers the best combination of durability, features, and value with over 111,000 reviews backing it up.

If your dog is an escape artist, the LEMBERI heavy duty crate is built to hold the toughest cases. For travel, the Petmate Sky Kennel meets airline requirements. And for owners who need a budget-friendly double door option, the Amazon Basics and BestPet crates both deliver solid performance at lower prices.

Whatever you choose, measure your dog first, read the reviews from owners with similar breeds, and invest in a crate that will keep your large dog safe and secure for years to come.