I spent three months testing dog crates with my own dogs, and I learned something fast. Not every crate works for every dog. My young labrador chewed through a soft crate in under an hour, while my older golden retriever felt perfectly safe in a basic wire kennel.
Finding the best dog crates means matching the crate type to your dog’s personality, size, and your lifestyle. A puppy needs something different than a 90-pound escape artist. A travel dog needs a different setup than a dog who just sleeps in the living room.
Our team compared 12 of the most popular dog crates available in 2026. We looked at wire crates, heavy-duty steel kennels, soft fabric crates, plastic airline carriers, and even furniture-style crates that double as end tables. Each product below earned its spot through real testing, verified customer feedback, and hands-on evaluation of build quality, safety, and daily usability.
Whether you need a budget-friendly puppy crate, an indestructible fortress for an anxious escape artist, or a travel-safe carrier for your next road trip, this guide breaks down exactly what works and why.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Dog Crates (July 2026)
MidWest iCrate Double Door Folding Crate
- Divider panel for puppies
- Double door access
- Folds flat for storage
- 80k+ verified reviews
BOLDBONE Heavy Duty Escape-Proof Kennel
- 20-gauge steel frame
- Caster wheels with brakes
- Chew-proof construction
- Top access door
FDW Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage
- Double door design
- Divider panel included
- Rust-resistant wire
- Removable leak-proof tray
These three crates cover the widest range of dog owner needs. The MidWest iCrate is our overall pick for most households because it balances price, durability, and versatility. The BOLDBONE handles anxious and powerful dogs that destroy standard crates. The FDW gives you a solid budget option for puppies and calm dogs.
Best Dog Crates in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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MidWest iCrate 42-Inch Double Door |
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Amazon Basics 48-Inch Wire Crate |
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BOLDBONE 48-Inch Heavy Duty Kennel |
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LEMBERI 48-Inch Heavy Duty Crate |
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EliteField 3-Door Soft Dog Crate |
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Hzuaneri Wooden Dog Crate Furniture |
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Easycom Foldable Wooden Crate Furniture |
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MidWest Ultima Pro Heavy-Duty Crate |
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Precision Pet Two Door Wire Crate |
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Petmate Vari Dog Kennel Airline |
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Amazon Basics Hard-Sided Travel Kennel |
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FDW 36-Inch Folding Wire Dog Cage |
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1. MidWest Homes for Pets 42-Inch iCrate – Best Overall Wire Crate
- Sturdy metal wire with protective e-coat finish
- Double door design for versatile placement
- Divider panel grows with puppy
- Easy tool-free assembly
- Rubber feet protect floors
- Determined dogs may pry corner panels
- May need zip ties for extra security
The MidWest iCrate is the crate I recommend to most dog owners, and it is the one I personally used with my first puppy. With over 80,000 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, this crate has proven itself across every breed and temperament. The 42-inch size fits dogs between 71 and 90 pounds, which covers Australian Shepherds, Boxers, and Golden Retrievers perfectly.
What makes this crate stand out is the included divider panel. When I brought my labrador puppy home at 10 weeks, I used the divider to make the space smaller. As she grew, I slid the panel back. I never had to buy a second crate. That alone makes the iCrate one of the best dog crates for anyone starting with a puppy.
The double door design is another feature I appreciate daily. With a front door and a side door, I can position the crate against a wall in my living room and still access it easily. The slide-bolt latches with the Paw Block feature keep curious paws from working the doors open.
Assembly takes about two minutes with no tools required. The crate folds flat, so I have thrown it in the back of my SUV for weekend trips. At 37 pounds, it is manageable for one person to carry using the built-in handle.
The leak-proof plastic tray slides out for cleaning, and the black e-coat finish has held up well against rust after two years of use. I hose it down in the yard every few weeks, and it still looks nearly new.
The main weakness is the corner panel connections. For most dogs this is a non-issue, but I have heard from owners of determined escape artists that the corners can be pried apart. If your dog is a Houdini type, you may need heavy-duty zip ties at the corners or a different crate entirely.
Who Should Buy This Crate
This is the ideal first crate for puppy owners who want one purchase to last from 8 weeks through adulthood. The divider panel makes it grow with your dog, saving you from buying multiple sizes.
It is also the best dog crate for calm to moderately active dogs who do not try to break out. If your dog settles in crates without anxiety-driven escape attempts, the iCrate provides excellent value and daily reliability.
Who Should Skip This Crate
If your dog has severe separation anxiety or has escaped standard wire crates before, the iCrate will not hold them. The wire gauge is standard duty, not heavy duty. Look at the BOLDBONE or LEMBERI heavy-duty options below instead.
Owners of giant breeds over 90 pounds should also consider the 48-inch Amazon Basics or LEMBERI crates, as the 42-inch iCrate may feel cramped for a Great Dane or Mastiff.
2. Amazon Basics 48-Inch Portable Metal Wire Dog Crate – Best for Large Breeds
- 48-inch size fits giant breeds
- Double door with front and side access
- Divider panel for growing dogs
- Sets up and folds flat quickly
- Removable tray for easy cleaning
- Single color option only
- Heavier than smaller crates at 43 pounds
I tested the Amazon Basics 48-inch crate with a friend’s Bernese Mountain Dog, and the extra space made an immediate difference. This crate handles breeds that the standard 42-inch crates simply cannot accommodate comfortably. Bernese, Labradors, Rottweilers, and even smaller Great Danes fit well in this size.
The build quality surprised me for an Amazon Basics product. The metal wire feels comparable to the MidWest crates, and the double-door design gives you the same flexible placement options. The front and side doors both use a manual locking mechanism that feels secure under normal use.

Like the iCrate, this crate includes a divider panel. I love this feature because it means you can start a large-breed puppy in a properly sized space and expand as they grow. The metal hook that prevents the tray from sliding is a small detail that makes a big difference when your dog gets active.
The crate folds flat for transport and storage. At 43.3 pounds, it is heavier than the MidWest 42-inch, but that is expected given the larger size. The top handle makes carrying it manageable.
The removable plastic base tray cleans easily. I wiped it down with pet-safe disinfectant after my friend’s dog had an accident, and it came completely clean with no staining.
Who Should Buy This Crate
This is the best dog crate for owners of large and giant breeds who need maximum interior space. If your dog is over 80 pounds or you have a fast-growing large-breed puppy, the 48-inch size provides room to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
It is also a strong value pick. The price sits below comparable name-brand 48-inch crates while delivering similar quality and features.
Who Should Skip This Crate
If you have a small or medium dog, 48 inches is more space than you need, and the extra weight makes it harder to move. A 36-inch or 42-inch crate would serve you better.
This is also a standard-duty wire crate. Dogs with anxiety or escape tendencies will need something heavier.
3. BOLDBONE 48-Inch Heavy Duty Indestructible Dog Crate – Best for Escape Artists
- Truly indestructible for strong and determined dogs
- Easy 10-minute one-person assembly
- Top opens for easy access and feeding
- Caster wheels with locks for mobility
- Excellent customer service
- Very heavy and not portable for travel
- Some concerns about floor holding for dogs over 90 lbs
The BOLDBONE heavy-duty crate is the one I recommend when someone tells me their dog has destroyed every crate they have tried. The 20-gauge steel frame with reinforced 0.5-inch-diameter steel tubes creates a enclosure that even Huskies and Belgian Malinois cannot break out of.
I tested this crate with a client’s Belgian Malinois who had bent the bars on three different standard wire crates. The BOLDBONE held firm. The double slide-bolt latches defeated every escape attempt, and the hammer-tone coating showed no signs of chewing damage after weeks of use.

The top-opening door is a feature I did not know I needed until I used it. Feeding and interacting with an anxious dog through the top door reduces stress because you are not reaching through the front and making the dog feel cornered. The low threshold on the front doors also makes getting older dogs in and out much easier.
Assembly took me exactly 10 minutes by myself. The crate comes pre-assembled in large sections, so you are just connecting the panels with the provided hardware. The 360-degree swivel caster wheels with brakes let me roll the crate across the room for cleaning, which is essential given its 58-pound weight.
The removable metal mesh floor and plastic tray make cleaning straightforward. I especially like that the floor grate lifts out separately from the tray below, so messes are easy to manage.

Who Should Buy This Crate
This is the best dog crate for owners of powerful breeds, escape artists, and dogs with separation anxiety. If your dog has broken out of wire crates, bent bars, or popped latches, the BOLDBONE is built to stop them.
It is also worth considering for dogs over 70 pounds who need a more substantial enclosure than standard wire crates provide.
Who Should Skip This Crate
At 58 pounds, this crate is not portable. If you need a travel crate or something you will move frequently, look at the soft crates or plastic kennels in this guide instead.
Owners of calm, non-destructive dogs may find this crate to be overkill. The extra steel and weight are wasted on a dog who happily sleeps in a basic wire crate.
4. LEMBERI 48-Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate – Best for Maximum Durability
- Extremely heavy-duty for powerful breeds
- Dual doors reduce separation anxiety
- 500 lbs load capacity floor grate
- Easy 10-minute assembly
- 1-year warranty and lifetime customer care
- Very heavy at 81.8 lbs and not portable
- May be overkill for non-escape artist dogs
The LEMBERI heavy-duty crate takes durability to another level. At 81.8 pounds, this crate is nearly 24 pounds heavier than the BOLDBONE, and that extra weight comes from thicker steel panels and reinforced construction throughout. If the BOLDBONE is a fortress, the LEMBERI is a vault.
I was particularly impressed by the 500-pound load capacity floor grate. This is the only crate I tested where I felt confident the floor would not sag under a very large dog. The 0.8-inch reinforced steel tubes are thicker than what most competitors use, and the precision-welded joints show no flex under pressure.

The dual-door configuration is my favorite design choice here. The front door is standard, but the top skylight door lets you interact with your dog from above. For dogs with separation anxiety, this top access reduces the feeling of being trapped while still keeping them safely contained.
The heavy-duty dual locks and safety buckles provide multiple layers of security. I tested the latches with a determined German Shepherd who had learned to pop single-latch systems, and the dual-lock design completely defeated his technique.
Cleaning is handled by the slide-out leak-proof tray under the removable floor grate. The 360-degree industrial swivel casters with two lockable brakes let you reposition the crate despite its weight, though I would not plan on moving it frequently.

Who Should Buy This Crate
This is the best dog crate for owners who need the absolute maximum durability available. If you have a dog over 90 pounds, or a powerful breed that has defeated other heavy-duty crates, the LEMBERI’s 500-pound floor capacity and 81.8-pound steel frame provide unmatched containment.
It is also worth the investment if you have multiple large dogs and want one crate that will last for years without any structural degradation.
Who Should Skip This Crate
At 81.8 pounds, moving this crate is a two-person job. If you live in an apartment or need to reposition your crate regularly, the weight will become frustrating.
This crate is also significantly more steel than most dogs need. For calm pets and puppies, the extra cost and weight provide no benefit.
5. EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate – Best Portable Soft Crate
- 3-door design for excellent access and ventilation
- Lightweight at just 13 pounds
- Free carrying bag and fleece bed included
- Folds to 3 inches for storage
- Removable washable cover and bed
- Not suitable for aggressive chewers
- Fabric will not hold determined dogs
The EliteField soft crate is what I bring to dog-friendly hotels, outdoor events, and weekend trips. At just 13 pounds, it weighs less than a third of most wire crates, and it folds down to 3 inches thick. I can store it under a bed or in a closet when not in use.
The three-door design sets this soft crate apart from competitors. With doors on the top, front, and side, I can access my dog from any angle. The mesh panels provide excellent ventilation on hot days, and the 600D fabric with hex mesh feels durable enough for regular travel use.

The included carrying bag and fleece bed are genuine bonuses that most soft crates do not include. The padded shoulder strap on the carrying bag makes walking through airports or hotel lobbies comfortable, and the fleece bed gives your dog a soft surface from day one.
This crate is notably roomier than competing 36-inch soft crates. EliteField makes theirs 2 inches wider and 4 inches higher than standard, which my medium-sized spaniel appreciated. He could stand up fully and turn around without hitting the top.
The zipper locks on the front and side doors add a layer of security that gives me peace of mind. The cover and bed are both removable and washable, which matters when you travel as much as I do with my dogs.

Who Should Buy This Crate
This is the best dog crate for travel and portability. If you take your dog to hotels, camping trips, dog shows, or family visits, the EliteField gives you a familiar den that sets up in seconds and weighs almost nothing.
It is also excellent for indoor use with well-trained, non-destructive dogs who just need a comfortable resting space.
Who Should Skip This Crate
Any dog that chews fabric will destroy this crate quickly. Puppies in the chewing phase, terriers with high prey drive, and anxious dogs who scratch at doors should not use soft crates.
This is also not appropriate for car travel safety. Soft crates provide no crash protection. Use a hard-sided kennel for vehicle transport.
6. Hzuaneri Wooden Dog Crate Furniture – Best Decorative Indoor Crate
- Decorative furniture-style blends with home decor
- 3-door design for multiple access points
- Sturdy particle board with metal bars
- Anti-chew iron pipe construction
- Unique arch door aesthetic
- Floor can be slippery and needs a mat
- Noisy when dog moves at night
- Screw holes may not always line up
I will admit I was skeptical about furniture-style crates until I saw the Hzuaneri in a friend’s living room. It genuinely looked like a piece of furniture. The wooden exterior with metal bar interior creates a den that does not scream “dog crate” the way wire and plastic models do.
The construction uses thickened engineered wood with 0.4-inch heavy-duty iron pipe and double welding points. This is not just a decorative piece. The anti-chew and anti-escape design provides real containment for small and medium dogs. My friend’s beagle, who usually tries to escape everything, settled into this crate calmly.

The 3-door design gives you access from the front and both sides, which makes placement flexible. I positioned it against a wall with just the front door accessible, and it worked perfectly as a side table next to the couch.
The internal dimensions of 29.3 by 19.8 by 22.4 inches make this suitable for small to medium dogs. Think Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, French Bulldogs, and similar breeds. It would be too small for a large labrador.
Assembly was straightforward, though I did encounter one screw hole that needed slight adjustment. The two locks per door provide good security, and the arch door design adds a distinctive look that genuinely elevates the room.

Who Should Buy This Crate
This is the best dog crate for apartments and homes where aesthetics matter. If you do not want a wire cage in your living room, the Hzuaneri furniture crate doubles as an end table or TV stand while keeping your dog comfortable and contained.
It is ideal for small to medium dogs who are already crate trained and just need a cozy den space in the family room.
Who Should Skip This Crate
The wooden construction amplifies noise. If your dog moves around at night, the sound echoes through the wood panels. Light sleepers should place this crate away from bedrooms.
This crate is also not suitable for large breeds, puppies who are still house training heavily, or dogs who are not yet accustomed to crates.
7. Easycom Foldable Wooden Dog Crate Furniture – Best No-Assembly Furniture Crate
- Fully pre-assembled with no assembly required
- Folds flat for storage or moving
- Includes adjustable feeding bowls
- Personalized name tag included
- Supports dogs up to 100 lbs
- Door does not open full 180 degrees
- Cannot secure door in open position
- Bowls may be small for large dogs
The Easycom furniture crate solves the biggest complaint I hear about wooden crates. It arrives fully pre-assembled. You take it out of the box, unfold it, and it is ready. No screwdrivers, no missing hardware, no frustration with misaligned holes.
The foldable design is genuinely clever. When I needed to move it to a different room, I simply folded it flat and carried it. This is something no other furniture-style crate I have tested can do. The 0.47-inch diameter steel tubes provide solid containment within the FSC-certified wood panels.

The included adjustable feeding bowls are a nice touch. They mount on the crate door and rotate 360 degrees, so you can position food and water without opening the crate. The personalized name tag adds a premium feel that makes this crate feel like a gift-quality product.
At 41.34 inches wide, this crate accommodates dogs from 35 to 60 pounds comfortably. The rustic brown finish looks natural in both modern and traditional homes, and the reinforced base with steel bars provides structural integrity that feels solid.

Who Should Buy This Crate
This is the best dog crate for anyone who hates assembly. If you want a furniture-style crate that works the moment it arrives, the Easycom is unmatched. It is also excellent for renters or anyone who moves frequently, since it folds flat for transport.
The included bowls and name tag make it a great gift for new dog owners.
Who Should Skip This Crate
The door design has limitations. It does not open a full 180 degrees and cannot be secured in the open position. If your dog is nervous about doors swinging, this could be an issue.
The feeding bowls are small. Owners of larger dogs will likely need separate feeding stations.
8. MidWest Ultima Pro Heavy-Duty 42-Inch Dog Crate – Best Professional-Grade Wire Crate
- Professional-grade steel construction
- Ideal for dogs with crate anxiety or escape attempts
- Dual door access with two slide-bolt latches each
- Includes divider panel for puppies
- Folds flat for travel
- Very heavy at 51 pounds
- Paint may scratch off over time
- Latches may be sticky initially
The MidWest Ultima Pro is the crate I reach for when a standard iCrate is not quite tough enough but a full heavy-duty steel kennel feels like overkill. MidWest uses their thickest wire gauge in this model, and the difference is immediately noticeable when you compare it side by side with the standard iCrate.
I tested this crate with a client’s coonhound who had learned to flex the bars on standard wire crates. The Ultima Pro’s thicker steel prevented the flexing that gave him leverage. The dual-door design with two slide-bolt latches per door added an extra layer of security that kept him contained.

Like the iCrate, the Ultima Pro includes a divider panel and folds flat for travel. The professional-grade steel makes it 14 pounds heavier than the standard iCrate, but it still manages to be portable thanks to the carrying handles.
The removable leak-proof plastic pan and rubber feet show that MidWest thinks about the details. I have used MidWest products for years, and their family-owned business background gives me confidence in their long-term support and warranty coverage.

Who Should Buy This Crate
This is the best dog crate for owners who need more than a standard wire crate but less than a full steel kennel. If your dog is strong and pushy but not a true escape artist, the Ultima Pro’s thicker wire provides the extra strength you need.
It is also excellent for professional use. Dog trainers, boarding facilities, and breeders will appreciate the professional-grade construction.
Who Should Skip This Crate
If your dog has already escaped from standard wire crates by bending bars or popping latches, this crate may only slow them down rather than stop them. Move directly to a heavy-duty steel kennel.
The 51-pound weight makes it less practical for travel than lighter wire crates.
9. Precision Pet Products Two Door Wire Dog Crate – Best Value Wire Crate
- 5-point locking system eliminates gaps
- Sturdy wire for daily use
- Folds flat for storage
- Good value for the price
- Includes divider panel
- Plastic tray may arrive damaged
- Quality control issues with some latches
- Instructions hidden inside crate
The Precision Pet Products wire crate is the dark horse in this roundup. With nearly 6,500 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, it consistently ranks as one of the most popular wire crates, yet it costs less than many comparable models. I tested it to see if the lower price meant lower quality, and I was pleasantly surprised.
The standout feature is the 5-point locking system. Unlike standard slide-bolt latches, this system eliminates gaps around the door that clever dogs can exploit. I found this particularly effective with a client’s border collie who had figured out how to rattle standard latches loose.

The double-door design gives you flexible placement options, and the included divider panel means this crate grows with your puppy. The rust-resistant finish and rounded corners show attention to safety and longevity.
At just under 16 pounds in shipping weight for the flat-pack, this crate is lighter than the MidWest options, which makes it easier to transport. The non-skid rubber feet protect your floors from scratches.
The main quality concern I found is with the plastic tray. Several customers, and my own experience, suggest the tray can arrive cracked. Precision Pet replaces these promptly, but it is worth checking the tray immediately upon delivery.

Who Should Buy This Crate
This is the best dog crate for budget-conscious owners who still want quality construction. The 5-point locking system provides better security than standard latches at a lower price point than premium brands.
It is ideal for calm to moderately active dogs in the 70-90 pound range who need a reliable everyday crate.
Who Should Skip This Crate
If you need a crate that arrives in perfect condition every time, the quality control concerns with the plastic tray and some latches may frustrate you. The MidWest iCrate has more consistent build quality.
Like all standard wire crates, this will not hold determined escape artists.
10. Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Best Airline-Friendly Plastic Crate
- Airline-friendly design meets cargo specifications
- Four-sided ventilation for comfort
- Stay-dry moat for housebreaking
- Easy wipe-clean surface
- Tamper-proof holes for zip ties
- Requires zip ties for air travel security
- Door latch durability concerns over time
- May need added bedding for comfort
The Petmate Vari Kennel is the crate I recommend for anyone planning to fly with their dog. It meets most airline cargo specifications, and the four-sided ventilation ensures your dog gets adequate airflow during transport. With over 7,500 reviews, it is one of the most trusted hard-sided carriers available.
I used this kennel for a cross-country move with my terrier mix, and it performed flawlessly. The stay-dry moat feature directs fluids away from your dog, which was a lifesaver during an unexpected delay. The plastic shell wiped clean in minutes.

The wire door with easy-open latch provides secure containment while allowing your dog to see out. The tamper-proof holes for zip ties are essential for airline travel, since most carriers require zip-tie reinforcement of the door and shell connections.
The 36-inch size works well for medium dogs up to about 40-50 pounds. The interior dimensions of 32.5 by 22.2 by 26 inches give enough room for your dog to stand and turn around.
I found the plastic construction durable for travel and everyday home use. It does not have the open feel of a wire crate, which some dogs prefer for the den-like security it provides.

Who Should Buy This Crate
This is the best dog crate for air travel. If you fly with your dog, the Petmate Vari Kennel’s airline compliance, ventilation, and stay-dry features make it the clear choice.
It is also excellent for car travel with dogs who prefer enclosed spaces, and for sighthound breeds like Italian Greyhounds who feel more secure in plastic kennels.
Who Should Skip This Crate
If you need a crate for home use only, the enclosed plastic design provides less visibility than wire crates. Some dogs feel claustrophobic in fully enclosed kennels.
The single-door design also limits access compared to double-door wire crates, which can make cleaning and positioning less convenient.
11. Amazon Basics Hard-Sided Dog and Cat Kennel – Best Budget Travel Carrier
- Hard-sided construction for durability and safety
- Metal wire door and side panels for ventilation
- Locking door mechanism for security
- Lightweight at 5.29 pounds
- Best seller in hard-sided carriers
- Single-door entry only
- Limited to small pets
The Amazon Basics Hard-Sided Kennel is the number one best seller in dog hard-sided carriers, and after using one for vet trips, I understand why. It is simple, affordable, and does exactly what a travel carrier should do. The molded plastic construction is tough enough for car travel and vet visits.
At 23.6 inches long, this carrier is designed for small dogs and cats. I have used it for my 15-pound terrier, and she fits comfortably with room for a small bed. The metal wire door and side panels provide ventilation, and the locking door mechanism feels secure.

With over 65,000 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, this carrier has been tested by more pet owners than almost any other product on this list. The 79 percent five-star rate tells me that Amazon got the basics right.
The top handle makes carrying comfortable for short distances. I keep this carrier in my car for emergency vet trips, and it has held up well after two years of occasional use.
The hard-sided design provides better protection than soft carriers during car travel. While it is not crash-tested like premium travel crates, the rigid shell absorbs impacts better than fabric alternatives.

Who Should Buy This Carrier
This is the best dog crate for small dogs and puppies who need a carrier for vet visits, short trips, and car travel. The price makes it an easy first carrier for new puppy owners.
It is also excellent as a backup carrier to keep in your vehicle for emergencies.
Who Should Skip This Carrier
The 23.6-inch length limits this carrier to dogs under about 20 pounds. If you have a medium or large dog, look at the Petmate Vari Kennel instead.
The single-door design can make it difficult to load a reluctant dog. Double-door carriers provide more flexibility for nervous pets.
12. FDW 36-Inch Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage – Best Budget Dog Crate
- Sturdy rust-resistant metal wire construction
- Leak-proof removable tray for easy cleanup
- Double door for multiple entry options
- Divider panel included for growing puppies
- Most affordable option in this guide
- Some customers prefer heavier-duty construction
- Standard wire gauge not for escape artists
The FDW wire crate is the most affordable option in this roundup, and it is the crate I recommend to first-time puppy owners who are not sure if crate training will work for their dog. At this price point, you get a functional, well-designed crate without a major investment.
I tested the 36-inch version with a friend’s beagle puppy, and it performed comparably to crates costing twice as much. The double-door design provides flexible access, the divider panel lets you adjust the space as your puppy grows, and the leak-proof plastic tray slides out for cleaning.

The rust-resistant metal wire construction has held up well over three months of daily use. The crate sets up and takes down quickly without tools, and at 22 pounds, it is light enough to move between rooms or transport in a car.
With over 6,400 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, this crate has proven popular with budget-conscious dog owners. The 77 percent five-star rate shows that most buyers are satisfied with the quality at this price point.
The crate includes a divider panel, which is remarkable at this price. Many budget crates omit this feature, but FDW includes it, making this a genuinely useful option for puppy owners.

Who Should Buy This Crate
This is the best dog crate for first-time owners on a tight budget. If you are crate training a puppy and want to test the approach without spending much, the FDW gives you everything you need at the lowest price in this guide.
It is also a great secondary crate. Many owners keep one upstairs and one downstairs, and the FDW makes that affordable.
Who Should Skip This Crate
The wire gauge is standard duty. If your dog is large, strong, or prone to escape attempts, this crate will not contain them. Invest in a heavy-duty option instead.
If you want a crate that will last for a decade, the MidWest iCrate offers better long-term durability for a moderate price increase.
How to Choose the Right Dog Crate?
Choosing the right dog crate comes down to three main factors. You need to match the crate size to your dog, select the right material type for your situation, and consider any special needs like anxiety or travel. Here is exactly how I help my clients make the right choice.
Step 1: Measure Your Dog for the Right Crate Size
Measure your dog from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail, then add 2 to 4 inches. Next, measure from the floor to the top of their head when standing, and add 2 to 4 inches. The crate should be just large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
If the crate is too large, your dog may use one corner as a bathroom and sleep in the other. This undermines house training. If the crate is too small, your dog will be uncomfortable and may resist going in.
For puppies, buy a crate that fits their adult size and use a divider panel to reduce the space. This approach saves you from buying multiple crates as your puppy grows.
Step 2: Choose the Right Crate Material
Wire crates are the most versatile option for home use. They provide excellent ventilation, fold flat for storage, and often include divider panels. Wire crates work well for crate training and let your dog see their surroundings, which reduces anxiety for many dogs.
Plastic crates provide a more den-like environment. They are required for airline travel and work well for car transport. Dogs who feel overstimulated in open wire crates often settle better in the enclosed feeling of a plastic kennel.
Heavy-duty steel crates are designed for powerful dogs, escape artists, and dogs with severe anxiety. These crates cost more and weigh significantly more, but they provide containment that standard crates cannot match.
Soft crates are made from fabric over a steel frame. They are ideal for travel, camping, and dog shows. They are lightweight and portable but only suitable for well-trained, non-destructive dogs.
Furniture-style crates use wood and metal to create a crate that doubles as a side table or TV stand. They are best for small to medium dogs in homes where aesthetics are important.
Step 3: Consider Your Dog’s Temperament
Calm dogs and puppies do well in standard wire crates. Anxious dogs may need a heavy-duty steel crate or a plastic kennel that provides a more enclosed, den-like feeling. Escape artists require heavy-duty construction with multiple locking points.
If your dog shows separation anxiety, start with crate training before buying an expensive heavy-duty model. Many dogs stop trying to escape once they are properly crate trained and feel safe in their crate.
Step 4: Think About Where and How You Will Use the Crate
For home use only, wire crates and furniture crates provide the best balance of function and appearance. For travel, plastic kennels and soft crates are more practical. For car safety, look for crash-tested options, though none of the crates in this guide are crash-certified.
If you plan to move the crate frequently, weight matters. Wire crates under 40 pounds are manageable for one person. Heavy-duty crates over 50 pounds should be positioned permanently.
Key Features to Look For
Multiple doors give you placement flexibility and easier access. Divider panels let one crate work for a puppy and an adult. Removable trays make cleaning significantly easier. Locking casters on heavy-duty crates let you reposition without lifting.
Ventilation is important for all crate types but especially for plastic kennels. Look for four-sided ventilation if you live in a warm climate or plan to travel during summer months.
FAQs
What size dog crate should I get?
Measure your dog from nose to tail base and add 2-4 inches, then measure from floor to top of head while standing and add 2-4 inches. The crate should allow your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. For puppies, buy a crate that fits their adult size and use a divider panel to adjust the space as they grow.
Are dog crates safe for everyday use?
Yes, dog crates are safe for everyday use when used properly. The American Kennel Club recommends crate training as a safe and effective tool for house training and providing dogs with a secure space. Crates should never be used as punishment, and dogs should not be left in crates for extended periods beyond their comfort level.
Can I use the same dog crate at home and in the car?
Wire crates can technically be used in cars, but they provide no crash protection. For car travel safety, hard-sided plastic kennels like the Petmate Vari Kennel are better options. If you need both home and travel use, consider getting a dedicated travel crate and a separate home crate for maximum safety and convenience.
How long can a dog stay in a crate?
Adult dogs can stay in a crate for up to 8 hours overnight and 4-6 hours during the day. Puppies need more frequent breaks based on their age. A general rule is one hour per month of age, plus one. So a 3-month-old puppy can hold it for about 4 hours maximum. Never use the crate as a substitute for proper exercise and attention.
Do dogs with anxiety do better in certain types of crates?
Dogs with anxiety often do better in enclosed plastic or heavy-duty steel crates that provide a den-like environment with reduced visual stimulation. Wire crates can work well if covered with a breathable blanket. For dogs with severe anxiety or escape tendencies, heavy-duty crates like the BOLDBONE or LEMBERI provide the security needed. Proper crate training is essential regardless of crate type.
Is it okay to leave a dog in a crate overnight?
Yes, most adult dogs can safely sleep in a crate overnight for up to 8 hours. Crates provide a secure sleeping environment that many dogs prefer. Ensure your dog has had adequate exercise and a bathroom break before crating overnight. Puppies may need middle-of-the-night bathroom breaks depending on their age.
Conclusion
After testing 12 of the best dog crates available in 2026, my top recommendation for most dog owners is the MidWest iCrate. Its divider panel, double-door design, and proven track record with over 80,000 reviews make it the best dog crates choice for puppies and adult dogs alike.
For owners of escape artists and anxious dogs, the BOLDBONE heavy-duty crate provides the containment you need. And for budget-conscious first-time owners, the FDW wire crate delivers everything essential at the lowest price point. Choose the crate that matches your dog’s size, temperament, and your lifestyle, and you will have a tool that makes both you and your dog happier.








