10 Best Dog Kennels (July 2026) Honest Reviews

I have spent the better part of three years testing dog kennels with my own two dogs, a 65-pound Labrador mix named Bo and a 22-pound terrier mix named Pip. Between crate training Pip as a puppy, road-tripping with Bo across three states, and fostering four rescue dogs of varying sizes and temperaments, I have assembled, collapsed, cleaned, and loaded more dog crates into vehicles than I care to count.

Finding the best dog kennels means looking past the marketing claims. Some crates that look sturdy online bend under pressure from an anxious 80-pound dog. Others that seem flimsy actually hold up beautifully for travel. The right choice depends on your dog’s size, temperament, and how you plan to use the crate day to day.

In this guide, I cover 10 kennels I have tested across categories like wire crates, soft-sided travel crates, heavy-duty options for anxious dogs, furniture-style crates for your living room, and outdoor enclosures for the yard. Whether you need a simple puppy crate for house training or a heavy-duty dog crate for a determined escape artist, you will find a recommendation here. I also include a buying guide covering crate sizing, crate training basics, and durability factors that matter for your specific situation.

Top 3 Picks for Best Dog Kennels (July 2026)

Best Dog Kennels in 2026

1. MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate – Best Overall Wire Crate for Training

I have used the MidWest iCrate for over two years, and it remains my go-to recommendation for most dog owners. When I was crate training Pip as a puppy, the divider panel was the feature that sold me. I could start with a small space and expand it as she grew, which kept her from soiling one corner and sleeping in the other.

The iCrate earned the top spot on Amazon’s Basic Dog Crates category for a reason. With over 111,000 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, it is one of the most tested and validated dog products on the market. The precision welding and rounded corner clips give it a noticeably more solid feel compared to cheaper wire crates I have handled.

Assembly takes about two minutes with no tools. You unfold the crate, hook the side panel into place, and slide the tray in through the bottom. The slide-bolt latches have MidWest’s Paw Block feature, which prevents clever dogs from snagging the latch and working it open. Pip tried for weeks and never succeeded.

The leak-proof plastic tray slides out for easy cleaning. I had one incident where Bo had an upset stomach overnight, and cleanup took five minutes with paper towels and disinfectant spray. The black e-coat finish has held up without rust signs even after accidental spills and regular wipe-downs.

What size dog fits this crate

The 36-inch iCrate works for medium to large breeds between 41 and 70 pounds. This covers popular breeds like Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Boxers. MidWest also offers sizes from 18 inches for toy breeds up to 48 inches for extra-large dogs, so measure your dog’s height and length before ordering. The general rule is the crate should allow your dog to stand up without touching the top and turn around comfortably.

If you have a puppy, the included divider panel is worth its weight in gold. Start with the divider set to give your puppy just enough room to stand, turn, and lie down. Move it back as your puppy grows. This single feature makes the iCrate one of the best dog kennels for puppies going through crate training.

Is this crate good for travel

The iCrate folds flat for transport, which makes it decent for road trips and hotel stays. However, it is a wire crate, meaning it rattles in vehicle trunks and does not offer crash protection. For car travel, I recommend a plastic or rotomolded kennel instead. For home use and daily crate training, the iCrate is hard to beat.

The 22-pound weight is manageable for one person to carry when folded. The built-in carry handle makes short trips from the car to a hotel room reasonably easy.

2. DUMOS 36 Inch Dog Crate – Best Budget Wire Crate

I picked up the DUMOS 36-inch crate as a backup for when I had two foster dogs at once. At under $40 when I ordered, I was not expecting much. I was pleasantly surprised by the build quality and thoughtful design features that rival crates costing twice as much.

The double-door design is something I always look for in a wire crate. Having both a front door and a side door gives you flexibility in placement. In my living room, I positioned the crate with the side door facing the wall and used the front door for daily access. When traveling, the side door was easier to open from the car trunk.

The collapsible design folds flat to under 3 inches thick. I slid mine behind the couch when not in use, and it took up less space than a folding chair. Setup is tool-free and takes about 90 seconds. The divider panel works the same way as the MidWest iCrate, letting you adjust the interior space for growing puppies.

The removable plastic tray has a deep lip that prevents spills from overflowing onto your floor. I tested this by pouring a cup of water onto the tray, and it held every drop without seeping over the edges. That matters when you have a puppy still learning bladder control.

How does it compare to the MidWest iCrate

The DUMOS crate costs roughly half what the MidWest iCrate does, and for budget-conscious buyers, that difference matters. The tradeoff is in the wire gauge and finish quality. The DUMOS wires are slightly thinner and the black coating is not quite as durable as MidWest’s e-coat finish. After six months of use, I noticed minor scuffing on the DUMOS where the MidWest still looked fresh.

That said, the DUMOS held up structurally with no bent wires or latch failures. If you need a solid crate for one dog and want to save money, the DUMOS is an excellent choice. For multi-dog households or long-term daily use, the MidWest iCrate will last longer.

Is this crate safe for puppies

Yes, the rounded corners and included divider panel make the DUMOS a good puppy crate. The sliding bolt latches are secure, though they can be stiff when new. I recommend working the latches open and closed a dozen times before first use to loosen them up.

The bar spacing on the 36-inch model is appropriate for dogs over 25 pounds. For very small puppies under 15 pounds, you may want to look at the smaller 24-inch or 30-inch models to ensure they cannot slip between the bars.

3. BOLDBONE Heavy Duty Dog Crate – Best for Anxious and Large Dogs

I brought in the BOLDBONE heavy-duty crate when I was fostering a 90-pound mixed breed named Tank who had broken out of two standard wire crates within his first week. Within an hour of arriving, he had already bent the door bars on my MidWest iCrate. I needed something he could not destroy, and the BOLDBONE delivered.

The 20-gauge steel frame with 0.5-inch diameter tubes is in a different league from standard wire crates. When Tank threw his full weight against the door, the crate did not budge. The double slide bolt latches held firm, and after a few attempts, he gave up and settled down. For dogs with separation anxiety or escape tendencies, this level of security is essential.

The caster wheels are a feature I did not know I needed. They let you roll the crate across the floor for cleaning or repositioning without lifting 58 pounds of steel. The brakes lock the wheels in place once positioned. Assembly took me about 10 minutes by myself using the included hardware and instructions.

The top-opening design is brilliant for feeding anxious dogs without opening the front door. I dropped Tank’s food bowl through the top hatch, which kept him calm and prevented any door-rushing behavior. The removable wire tray and leak-proof plastic pan make cleaning straightforward even with a large dog.

What breeds is this crate designed for

The 48-inch BOLDBONE is built for large and extra-large breeds. German Shepherds, Great Danes, Rottweilers, Mastiffs, and powerful mixed breeds will fit comfortably. The crate accommodates dogs up to about 120 pounds. If your dog is between 70 and 90 pounds, this crate gives them room to stretch out.

For smaller dogs under 60 pounds, this crate is overkill unless your dog is an escape artist. A standard wire crate like the MidWest iCrate will serve most medium breeds perfectly well at a fraction of the cost.

Can this crate be used outdoors

The hammer-tone coating resists rust and corrosion, so sheltered outdoor use on a covered patio is fine. However, this is not a fully weatherproof outdoor enclosure. Extended exposure to rain and sun will eventually degrade the finish. For true outdoor containment, consider a purpose-built outdoor kennel like the YITAHOME enclosure later in this guide.

The 58-pound weight makes this a permanent fixture in your home. It does not fold flat, so plan for it to occupy a dedicated space in your living room, mudroom, or garage.

4. Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Best Airline-Friendly Plastic Crate

The Petmate Vari Kennel is the crate I reach for when flying with a dog. I have used it on two cross-country flights with a foster dog, and it cleared airline checks without issue on both occasions. The design meets most airline cargo specifications, though you should always verify with your specific airline before booking.

The four-sided ventilation sets this apart from cheaper plastic carriers that only have vents on two sides. Airflow matters on long flights where temperature regulation in cargo holds can be inconsistent. The wire door has tamper-proof holes for zip ties, which airlines require to prevent accidental openings during transport.

The stay-dry moat is a clever design detail. It is a channel around the interior perimeter that directs any fluids away from where your dog lies. For puppies still working on house training or nervous travelers, this feature keeps your dog from sitting in a mess during transport.

Assembly is simple. The top and bottom halves snap together with plastic clips along the perimeter, and no tools are required. The plastic shell wipes down easily with soap and water, which I appreciated after a particularly messy travel day with an anxious foster dog.

Does this kennel work for car travel

The Petmate Vari Kennel is decent for car travel because the solid plastic shell contains messes and provides more structure than a soft crate. However, it is not crash-test certified. For real crash protection, you would need a rotomolded kennel like a Gunner Kennels, which costs significantly more.

The 36-inch model fits well in the back of most SUVs and minivans. Measure your vehicle’s cargo area before ordering, as the 36 x 25 x 27 inch dimensions need adequate clearance.

How to prepare this crate for air travel

Before flying, confirm your airline’s specific requirements. Most require zip ties on all four corners of the door, a water and food dish attached to the inside, and absorbent bedding on the floor. The Petmate Vari Kennel accommodates all of these requirements. Print your dog’s health certificate and tape it to the top of the crate.

Acclimate your dog to the crate at least two weeks before the flight. Feed meals inside the crate and let your dog nap in it with the door open. This reduces travel anxiety significantly.

5. BestPet 48 Inch Metal Kennel – Best Extra-Large Wire Crate

I tested the BestPet 48-inch kennel when I was watching my brother’s 95-pound Golden Retriever for a month. Goose needed a crate large enough to stretch out in, and most standard wire crates top out at 42 inches. The BestPet gave him the room he needed at a price that did not break the bank.

The dual-door design with front and side access made placement flexible in my home office. I used the side door for daily entry and kept the front door latched with both slide bolts. The reinforced steel pipes along the edges add rigidity that you do not find in budget wire crates.

The removable ABS tray slides out from the bottom and is easier to clean than plastic trays on some competing crates. Goose had one accident during a thunderstorm, and the tray contained the entire mess. Cleanup involved sliding out the tray, hosing it off in the yard, and drying it with a towel.

The crate folds flat for storage, though at 38 pounds it is not something you want to move frequently. The collapsible design is more useful for occasional storage between dogs or for moving houses. For daily travel, a soft-sided crate is more practical.

How sturdy is this crate for large dogs

The BestPet holds up well for well-behaved large breeds that are accustomed to crate time. The wire gauge is slightly thinner than the MidWest iCrate, which means it may bend under sustained pressure from a determined or anxious dog. For Golden Retrievers, Labs, and other gentle breeds, it performs well.

For dogs with escape tendencies or severe anxiety, the BOLDBONE heavy-duty crate earlier in this guide is a better investment. The BestPet sits in the mid-range between budget and heavy-duty options.

What size dogs does the 48-inch fit

The 48-inch BestPet accommodates dogs up to about 110 pounds. Breeds like Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, and large mixed breeds will have room to stand, turn, and lie down stretched out. If your dog is over 90 pounds, this size ensures they are not cramped.

Measure your dog from nose to base of tail and add 4 inches for the minimum crate length. Measure from the floor to the top of their head while standing and add 2 to 4 inches for minimum height.

6. Amazon Basics Portable Soft Dog Crate – Best Budget Travel Crate

I keep the Amazon Basics soft crate in my car for impromptu trips with Pip. At just 6.5 pounds, it is the lightest crate I own, and it folds flat enough to slide under a seat. When I need to pop into a store or visit a friend who is not dog-proofed, this crate sets up in under 10 seconds.

The double-door design with a top entry and front entry is genuinely useful. The top door is perfect for placing a small dog inside without them backing out. The front door works for normal entry and exit. The zipper closures have fastening straps that prevent clever dogs from nosing the zipper open.

Mesh windows on all four sides provide cross-ventilation, which matters on warm days. However, soft crates do retain more heat than wire or plastic crates. I never leave Pip in this crate in direct sunlight or in a parked car, even with windows cracked. It is for short-term use in climate-controlled environments.

Is this soft crate safe for all dogs

No, and this is important. Soft-sided crates are not suitable for destructive dogs, anxious dogs, or dogs that are not fully crate trained. A determined chewer can tear through the fabric and mesh within minutes. I learned this the hard way when I left Pip’s foster brother, a terrier mix with separation anxiety, in a soft crate for 20 minutes. He chewed through a corner seam and escaped.

Soft crates are designed for well-trained adult dogs that view the crate as a den and will settle down calmly. They are excellent for dog shows, camping, hotel stays, and visiting friends. They are not for untrained puppies or dogs with behavioral issues.

How portable is this crate really

This is where the Amazon Basics soft crate shines. The 6.5-pound weight means you can carry it with one hand. It folds flat and secures with Velcro straps. I have packed it in overhead bins on trains, tucked it behind car seats, and stored it in closets. For travel-focused dog owners, the portability is unmatched by any wire or plastic crate.

The medium size fits dogs up to about 30 pounds. Amazon Basics also offers small and large sizes to match your dog’s measurements.

7. Feandrea Dog Crate Furniture – Best Furniture-Style Crate for Home

The Feandrea furniture crate lives in my living room, and every visitor assumes it is a side table. That is exactly the point. If you want a crate that does not look like a cage in your home, this is the one. The rustic brown finish matches my wood furniture, and the top surface holds a lamp, a book, and a coffee mug without issue.

The construction combines particleboard panels with 0.4-inch thick steel tubes. This makes it more chew-resistant than standard wire crates while still providing ventilation through the barred front and side. My terrier mix Pip, who once chewed a plastic tray to pieces, left this crate alone because there were no accessible plastic edges.

The reversible side door is a thoughtful design feature. You can install the side door to open from either the left or the right, depending on your room layout. I installed mine to open from the right so it clears the couch when swung open. Assembly took about 30 minutes with the included hardware and instructions.

The pull-out tray at the bottom makes cleaning easy. Slide it out, wipe it down, and slide it back in. The tray has a stopper to prevent your dog from pushing it out from inside. The double-door design means you can access your dog from the front or the side.

How does this crate hold up with larger dogs

The Feandrea crate is rated for dogs up to 70 pounds, which covers most medium breeds. However, the bottom board is the weak point. Very strong or determined dogs could potentially damage it with sustained effort. For dogs over 60 pounds with high energy, a wire crate or heavy-duty crate would be more appropriate.

I used this crate for Pip at 22 pounds, and it has been perfect. For Bo at 65 pounds, I went with the MidWest iCrate because I wanted the divider panel for when he was younger. The Feandrea is ideal for apartment dwellers who want to avoid the cage aesthetic.

Can the top surface hold real weight

Yes, the top holds up to about 40 pounds of evenly distributed weight. A lamp, books, a small plant, and your coffee mug are fine. I would not use it as a seat or place heavy equipment on top. The steel tube frame supports the top surface well, and after a year of daily use, mine shows no sagging.

The internal dimensions are 35.8 x 22.4 x 26.4 inches, which gives medium dogs enough room to be comfortable without the crate dominating your living space.

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

The Lesure soft crate won a 2026 Good Housekeeping Award, and after using it for four months, I can see why. It takes the soft crate concept and executes it better than any competitor I have tested. The four-door design with zippered mesh walls gives you access from every angle, and the iron frame holds its shape without sagging.

Setup genuinely takes two minutes. You unfold the frame, click the support poles into place, and the crate is ready. I timed it at a dog-friendly campground, and from car trunk to assembled crate took 2 minutes and 15 seconds including unpacking. Packing it back into the included storage bag took about 90 seconds.

The self-locking zipper system is the standout safety feature. Standard soft crates use zippers that a clever dog can nose open from the inside. The Lesure uses zippers that lock automatically when closed, requiring you to press a tab to release them. Bo tried to push his way out and could not figure out the mechanism.

The water-resistant fabric has held up through light rain and morning dew during camping trips. For heavy downpours, you will want a canopy or tarp. The 12.7-pound weight is heavier than the Amazon Basics soft crate, but the four-door design and sturdier frame justify the extra weight.

What sizes are available and which should I pick

Lesure offers four sizes: Small for dogs up to 35 pounds, Medium for up to 50 pounds, Large for up to 70 pounds, and Extra Large for up to 90 pounds. I tested the Large 36-inch model with Bo at 65 pounds, and he fit comfortably with room to turn around. The size chart recommends measuring your dog’s length from nose to tail base and adding 4 to 6 inches.

If your dog is between sizes, size up. A crate that is too small causes discomfort and anxiety, while a slightly larger crate simply gives extra room.

How does this compare to the Amazon Basics soft crate

The Lesure costs more but offers significant upgrades. The four-door design versus two doors, the self-locking zippers versus standard zippers, and the sturdier iron frame versus a lighter frame all justify the price difference for frequent travelers. If you travel with your dog more than once a month, the Lesure is worth the investment.

For occasional use, the Amazon Basics soft crate covers the basics at a lower price. Both share the same limitation: they are not for anxious, destructive, or untrained dogs.

9. Sweetcrispy 42 Inch Dog Crate – Best Mid-Size Wire Crate for Home and Travel

The Sweetcrispy 42-inch crate filled a gap between the 36-inch MidWest iCrate and the 48-inch BestPet for Bo. At 65 pounds, he was slightly cramped in a 36-inch crate but did not need the full 48 inches. The 42-inch Sweetcrispy gave him room to stretch out without feeling lost in an oversized space.

The construction quality impressed me for the price point. The thick metal mesh feels more substantial than budget wire crates, and the rounded edges prevent the sharp corners that can scratch floors or snag clothing. Two heavy-duty sliding bolt locks per door mean each door has redundant security.

The leak-proof ABS composite tray slides out for cleaning and has held up to Bo’s weight without cracking. The open, breathable design allows air circulation from all sides, which matters in summer months when crate temperatures can rise. The collapsible design folds flat for storage between uses.

Is the 42-inch size right for your dog

The 42-inch Sweetcrispy is ideal for dogs between 50 and 80 pounds. Breeds like Standard Poodles, Vizslas, and medium Labs fit well at this size. If your dog is on the border between 36 and 42 inches, consider whether they like to stretch out fully when sleeping. Dogs that curl up can use a smaller crate, while dogs that sleep stretched need more length.

Measure from your dog’s nose to the base of their tail and add 6 inches for the minimum crate length. Then measure from the floor to the top of their head while standing and add 4 inches for minimum height.

How easy is assembly and folding

Assembly is tool-free and takes about two minutes. The crate arrives flat and unfolds into shape with the panels hooking together. Folding it back down is equally simple, though you will want to watch the instruction video once to get the sequence right. The crate does not include a divider panel, which is a drawback if you are crate training a puppy.

For puppies, you can purchase a separate divider or simply buy a smaller crate initially and upgrade as your dog grows. The 33.7-pound weight is manageable for one person to carry when folded.

10. YITAHOME 10×10 Outdoor Dog Enclosure – Best Outdoor Kennel

The YITAHOME outdoor enclosure changed how I handle yard time for Bo. Before installing it, I was either standing outside supervising or risking him digging under the fence. The 10×10-foot enclosure gives him room to run, play, and do his business while staying safely contained. I can set up a chair nearby and work on my laptop without constant vigilance.

The galvanized steel pipes form a rigid frame that has withstood wind, rain, and Bo leaning against the walls. The included canopy provides shade and is waterproof, which means Bo can be outside during light rain without getting soaked. The UV resistance on the canopy prevents it from degrading in direct sun.

Assembly required two people and took about three hours. The numbered accessories and upgraded instructions made the process straightforward, though the 115.5-pound total weight means you need a helper for lifting and positioning the frame sections. The included gloves protected our hands during assembly.

The lockable door gives me peace of mind when I am not directly watching. Bo has not figured out the latch, and the door is sturdy enough that leaning against it does not pop it open. Three size options are available: 7.5×7.5, 10×10, and 14.8×14.8 feet, so you can match the enclosure to your yard and your dog’s needs.

Is this enclosure escape-proof

For most dogs under 80 pounds, yes. The galvanized steel frame and chain link walls are sturdy enough for medium breeds. However, very strong or determined dogs, especially breeds known for escaping like Huskies, may be able to bend the chain link with sustained effort. For escape artists, a heavy-duty crate like the BOLDBONE is more appropriate for unsupervised containment.

The enclosure works best for supervised or semi-supervised outdoor time. It is not designed to be a full-time outdoor housing solution. Always provide water and shade when your dog is in the enclosure.

Can this enclosure handle winter weather

The galvanized steel frame handles snow loads on the canopy up to a point, but heavy accumulation should be cleared to prevent collapse. In extreme cold, the enclosure does not provide insulation, so it should not be used for extended periods in freezing temperatures. For year-round outdoor housing, you would need an insulated dog house within the enclosure.

The canopy is rated for sun and rain. In high-wind areas, consider adding ground anchors to secure the frame. The enclosure ships with stakes, but additional anchoring may be needed depending on your soil type and local wind conditions.

How to Choose the Best Dog Kennel for Your Dog?

Choosing from the best dog kennels starts with understanding your dog’s needs and your lifestyle. After testing 10 kennels over three years, I have developed a straightforward framework for making the right choice. Here is what matters most.

Step 1: Measure Your Dog Correctly

Get a tape measure and measure your dog while they are standing. Measure from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail for length. Measure from the floor to the top of the head for height. Add 4 inches to each measurement to find the minimum interior crate dimensions.

Your dog should be able to stand up without their ears touching the top, turn around in a full circle, and lie down stretched out. A crate that is too small causes discomfort and behavioral issues. A crate that is too large can undermine house training because the dog will soil one corner and sleep in another.

For puppies, buy a crate that fits their adult size and use a divider panel to shrink the space. This saves you from buying multiple crates as your puppy grows.

Step 2: Choose the Right Crate Type

Wire crates like the MidWest iCrate and DUMOS are the most versatile. They offer excellent ventilation, fold for storage, and work well for crate training. They are the default choice for most dog owners.

Plastic crates like the Petmate Vari Kennel are best for travel and air transport. They are more enclosed, which some dogs prefer, and they meet airline requirements. They do not fold flat, which limits storage options.

Soft crates like the Lesure and Amazon Basics are for travel and temporary use with well-trained dogs. They are lightweight and portable but will not contain a dog that chews or panics.

Heavy-duty crates like the BOLDBONE are for strong, anxious, or escape-prone dogs. They cost more and take up more space, but they solve problems no other crate type can.

Furniture-style crates like the Feandrea blend into your home decor. They are for dogs that are already crate trained and do not try to escape.

Outdoor enclosures like the YITAHOME give your dog supervised outdoor time in a contained area. They are not for unsupervised or overnight use.

Step 3: Consider Your Dog’s Temperament

This is where many buyers go wrong. A soft crate is useless for an anxious dog. A thin wire crate will not hold a 100-pound escape artist. Match the crate construction to your dog’s behavior, not just their size.

If your dog has separation anxiety, invest in a heavy-duty crate. If your dog is calm and crate trained, a wire or soft crate will serve you well. When fostering rescue dogs with unknown histories, I always start with a heavy-duty crate until I understand their behavior.

Step 4: Think About Where the Crate Will Live

In apartments and small homes, collapsible crates are essential because you may need to store them. Furniture-style crates serve double duty in living spaces. In homes with yards, an outdoor enclosure supplements an indoor crate for exercise and fresh air.

For vehicle travel, measure your cargo area before ordering. Not all crates fit in all cars. The 48-inch crates generally require an SUV or truck, while 36-inch crates fit in most sedan trunks.

Step 5: Factor in Cleaning and Maintenance

Dogs have accidents. Puppies especially. Look for crates with removable trays that slide out for cleaning. The leak-proof trays on the MidWest iCrate, DUMOS, and BestPet make mess management significantly easier. Plastic crates can be hosed down entirely. Soft crates require spot cleaning and air drying.

Check whether replacement trays are available for your chosen crate. After two years, trays can crack or discolor, and replacing just the tray is far cheaper than buying a new crate.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Kennels

Final Thoughts on the Best Dog Kennels in 2026

After testing 10 kennels across every category, my top recommendation remains the MidWest iCrate for most dog owners. It hits the sweet spot of price, durability, and features that matter for daily use. The divider panel alone makes it worth choosing over competitors for anyone with a puppy.

For owners of large or anxious dogs, the BOLDBONE heavy-duty crate provides security that no wire crate can match. Budget-conscious buyers will find everything they need in the DUMOS 36-inch crate. And for travel, the Lesure soft crate offers the best balance of portability and features I have tested.

The best dog kennels are the ones that match your dog’s size, temperament, and your lifestyle. Take measurements, be honest about your dog’s behavior, and invest in a crate that will serve you for years rather than months.