Pet
4.6
The 12 Best Dog Crates for Crate Training in 2026: Expert Picks for Every Breed
Reviewed by Maya Singh, Senior Editor, Pet & Lifestyle on March 24, 2026
Published March 19, 2026Updated March 24, 202614 min read
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on this page. This never changes which products we recommend — every pick is chosen by our editorial team, and our methodology is documented in our review methodology.
Expert-tested dog crate picks for 2026 - from budget wire crates to indestructible escape-proof kennels. Find the right crate for your puppy, adult dog, or anxious chewer.
dog crates
crate training
puppy crates
dog kennels
pet supplies
Our #1 Pick
The MidWest iCrate at $168.98 is the best dog crate for most owners — includes a divider panel, folds flat, and comes in 8 sizes from XS through XXL.
MidWest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single Door iCrate Dog Crate, Includes Leak-Proof Pan & Newly Enhanced Single Door iCrate Dog Crate
$168.98
Complete training kit with divider panel, Paw Block security latches, and leak-proof tray — the trainer-recommended wire crate available in 8 sizes for every breed.
Check Price on AmazonAffiliate Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support our content creation and allows us to continue providing valuable reviews and recommendations.
The Right Crate Changes Everything About Training#
Key Takeaway
The MidWest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single Door iCrate is the best dog crate for most owners. At $168.98, it includes a divider panel for puppies, patented Paw Block security latches, a leak-proof tray, and comes in eight sizes for dogs from a few pounds to 110+ lbs. Wire crates are the gold standard for crate training because visibility and airflow reduce anxiety - and the included divider lets you size the interior correctly as your puppy grows.
Dog crates are one of those purchases that feel overwhelming until you understand why the categories exist. A wire crate that works brilliantly for a Labrador puppy will fail completely for an anxious German Shepherd who can bend wire. A beautiful furniture-style crate that fits perfectly in your living room might be useless for a Great Dane. Choosing wrong doesn't just cost money - it can set your training back weeks and create a negative association with the crate that's hard to undo [1].
For this guide, we evaluated twelve crates and kennel accessories across every major category: wire, heavy-duty steel, soft-sided, plastic travel, furniture-style, and vehicle transport. We assessed build quality, security hardware, ease of assembly, ventilation, included accessories, and long-term value. The result is a list that genuinely covers every type of dog and every type of owner - from the apartment dweller with a French Bulldog to the hunting dog handler who needs a truck-mounted kennel that can take a hard stop at highway speed.
One thing worth saying upfront: the ASPCA and AKC both emphasize that crate size matters as much as crate type [1][3]. A crate that's too large allows the dog to use one end as a bathroom - the divider panel, included with several picks on this list, solves this problem by letting you shrink the space as needed and expand it as the dog grows. It sounds like a small detail, but it's probably the single most important feature for new puppy owners.
2026 Dog Crate Comparison: All 12 Picks at a Glance
| Product | Price | Type | Best For | Divider Included |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MidWest iCrate Enhanced Single Door (48") | $168.98 | Wire | Best Overall | Yes |
| DIGGS Revol Collapsible Dog Crate (Medium) | $799.00 | Collapsible Premium | Best Premium | Yes |
| MidWest LifeStages 24" Double Door | $70.01 | Wire | Best for Small Breeds & Puppies | Yes |
| Impact Indestructible High Anxiety Crate (30") | $871.99 | Aluminum Heavy Duty | Best for Escape Artists | No |
| Carlson Pet Single Door Metal Crate Medium 30" | $35.45 | Wire | Best Budget | No |
| New Age Pet ECOFLEX InnPlace End Table (Medium) | $123.99 | Furniture Style | Best Furniture Style | No |
| NUGRIART 48" Heavy Duty Steel Crate XL | $99.99 | Steel Heavy Duty | Best Heavy-Duty XL | No |
| EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Crate 36" | $105.99 | Soft-Sided | Best Soft-Sided | No |
| Ruff Land Kennels Compatible Tie Down Kit | $56.99 | Transport Accessory | Best Vehicle Transport System | N/A |
| ProSelect Empire Cage Medium | $382.33 | Steel Professional | Best for Large & Powerful Breeds | No |
| Petmate Sky Kennel 40" (70–90 lbs) | $219.99 | Plastic Travel | Best Airline-Approved | No |
| Carlson Pet Single Door Metal Crate Large 42" | $52.81 | Wire | Best Budget Large Crate | No |
01
Best Overall
MidWest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single Door iCrate#
🥇Editor's ChoiceBest overall
MidWest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single Door iCrate Dog Crate, Includes Leak-Proof Pan & Newly Enhanced Single Door iCrate Dog Crate
$168.98
- Product 1: Newly enhanced with added security features to keep your pet safe | Slide-bolt door latches now feature patented Paw Block and locking tips to create a safer, more secure home for your pet
- Product 1: iCrate single door dog crate measures 48L x 30W x 33H inches and is suitable for extra-large dog breeds with an adult weight of 90-110 pounds. If your dog’s weight or measurements are on the higher side for this crate, we recommend buying the next crate size up
- Product 1: Dog crate includes a divider panel, durable & leak-proof plastic pan, protective rubber feet, carrying handle, and customer support team based in Indiana, Heavy-duty slide-bolt latch securely locks dog crate door in place, keeping your dog safely inside their pet home
✓ In Stock
The MidWest iCrate Enhanced occupies the sweet spot where value, function, and training effectiveness converge. The 48-inch version reviewed here accommodates extra-large breeds weighing 90–110 lbs and measures 48L × 30W × 33H inches - enough room for a Golden Retriever to stand, turn, and lie flat without being so spacious that a puppy is tempted to use a corner as a bathroom. The divider panel is the detail that makes all the difference: partition the space to match your puppy's current size, then slide it back incrementally as they grow [4].
The newly enhanced Paw Block feature is a genuine improvement over older iCrate models. The patented design adds locking tips to the slide-bolt latches, making it significantly harder for a clever dog to nose the door open from inside. It's not rated for extreme separation anxiety, but it handles the normal level of door-rattling and nosing that comes with puppyhood. The leak-proof plastic pan and rubber feet round out a package that - unusually for this price - arrives ready to use without ordering accessories separately. MidWest's customer support team is US-based in Indiana, which matters if you ever have a warped pan or broken latch to replace.
🥈Runner UpBest premium
DIGGS Revol Collapsible Dog Crate with Wheels - Premium Portable Dog Crate - Safe, Stylish, and Convenient Indoor Kennel (Smoke, Medium)
$799.00
- AWARD-WINNING PREMIUM CRATE: Revol is our ultimate collapsible dog crate offering superior design with uncompromising safety and functionality. Built to baby industry safety standards with premium materials, Revol transforms from functional training tool to stylish home furniture that actually enhances your decor.
- IS THIS THE RIGHT SIZE FOR MY DOG?: Ideal for dogs up to 17”-20” tall, or 30-50 lbs, such as Basset Hounds, Boston Terriers, Cardigan Welsh Corgis, English Bulldogs, Cocker Spaniels, Mini Goldendoodles, and Shiba Inus. Internal dimensions: 31.4"L x 20.6"W x 21.5"H. External dimensions: 34.6"L x 22.9"W x 23.8"H. Crate weight: 32lbs.
- FOLD AND STORE IN SECONDS: Patented design sets up in under 60 seconds with just one hand (note - “with just one hand” can only be used for sizes S and M). Collapses just as easily for storage. Built-in wheels and ergonomic handle make moving assembled or collapsed crate between rooms, cars, or storage areas a breeze.
Only 5 left in stock - order soon.
The DIGGS Revol represents what happens when industrial designers approach crate design without deference to decades of wire-cage convention. At $799.00, it costs nearly five times as much as a MidWest iCrate - but it justifies the premium in ways that matter to a specific buyer. The built-in wheels mean you can roll the crate from bedroom to living room without disassembling anything. The Smoke finish and clean lines mean house guests might not immediately identify it as a dog crate.
The internal dimensions - 31.4"L × 20.6"W × 21.5"H - are appropriate for dogs up to 50 lbs, making it right-sized for Basset Hounds, English Bulldogs, Shiba Inus, and Mini Goldendoodles. The nursery-grade safety standards translate to rounded interior corners that eliminate the sharp wire edge risk present on budget wire crates. One practical limitation: the premium materials aren't designed for a determined escape artist, and the $799.00 price makes damage from a chewer genuinely painful. The Revol shines when paired with a dog who is well-adjusted and simply needs a home that fits their owner's aesthetic.
03
Best for Small Breeds & Puppies
MidWest LifeStages 24-Inch Double Door Crate#
🥉Also GreatBest for small breeds and puppies
MidWest Homes for Pets 24-Inch LifeStages Crate for Small Breeds, 12-20 lbs, Double Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latch, Heavy-Duty & Easy to Assemble
$70.01
- IDEAL FOR 12-20 LB DOGS: Measures 24.5 x 17.5 x 19.5 inches – perfect for Fox Terriers, Pugs, Chihuahuas & similar breeds. For dogs near 20 lbs, consider sizing up to our 30-inch model so they have plenty of room to get comfortable.
- WE DON'T CUT CORNERS, WE PERFECT THEM: Precision welding, rounded corner clips & slide-bolt latches with Paw Block mitigate cuts & escapes. With rigorous safety testing, LifeStages provides peace of mind knowing your dog is safe while you're away.
- HEAVY-DUTY CONSTRUCTION: Reinforced with heavier gauge wire than standard crates, LifeStages is built for durability. Complete with leak-proof tray, rubber feet, carry handle, and tool-free assembly, it's ready for years of use.
✓ In Stock
The MidWest LifeStages 24-inch is MidWest's precision small-breed option, and the details separate it from the budget tier. Heavier gauge wire than standard wire crates means less flex and rattle - a genuine consideration for a small dog who might otherwise spend an evening working a loose wire panel. The double door configuration is surprisingly useful in practice: side entry lets you place the crate flush against a wall without sacrificing easy access [2]. At 24.5 × 17.5 × 19.5 inches, it fits Fox Terriers, Pugs, Chihuahuas, and similar small breeds with comfortable room to stand and turn.
04
Best for Escape Artists
Impact Indestructible High Anxiety Dog Crate#
Best for: Owners of high-anxiety dogs, escape artists, powerful chewers, and dogs who have already destroyed other crate types
Strengths
- +Powder-coated aluminum construction - genuinely indestructible for the vast majority of dogs
- +Zinc-plated steel paddle latch engineered to withstand extreme escape force
- +Four additional butterfly latches provide maximum door security
- +10-year manufacturer warranty against dog damage - unprecedented in this category
- +30.5"L × 20.5"W × 26"H fits medium breeds with room to stand and turn
Limitations
- −$871.99 is the most expensive crate on this list - a serious investment
- −Heavyweight aluminum construction reduces portability compared to wire alternatives
- −Enclosed design is not ideal for dogs being gently introduced to crating for the first time
- −Limited stock available
Editor’s Note
Don't Start Here If Your Dog Is New to Crating
The Impact Indestructible crate is designed for dogs who have already demonstrated extreme escape behavior. Introducing a dog who has never been crated to a fully enclosed aluminum kennel can dramatically increase anxiety and create negative associations. Start with a wire crate and upgrade only if escape becomes a documented, repeated pattern.
05
Best Budget
Carlson Pet Products Single Door Metal Dog Crate, Medium 30"#
Carlson Pet Products Single Door Metal Dog Crate, Medium 30" Dog Crate for Medium Dogs & Puppies, Foldable Collapsible Dog Kennel with Removable Tray, Portable Wire Dog Cage for Training & Travel
Best budget medium crate
$35.45
- DURABLE METAL DOG CRATE: Strong wire dog crate and dog cage designed to provide a secure and comfortable space for your pet. The sturdy metal construction and secure bolt latch help keep medium dogs and puppies safely contained.
- IDEAL MEDIUM DOG & PUPPY CRATE: 30"L x 19"W x 21.5"H medium dog crate perfect for medium sized dogs and growing puppies up to 45 lbs. Fits dogs up to 24 inches long and up to 20 inches tall while providing a comfortable indoor resting space.
- FOLDABLE & COLLAPSIBLE FOR TRAVEL: This collapsible dog crate folds flat in seconds with no tools required. Easy to transport or store, making it ideal for travel, car rides, camping, or temporary indoor dog kennels.
Usually ships within 1 to 2 months
06
Best Furniture Style
New Age Pet ECOFLEX InnPlace Dog Crate & End Table#
New Age Pet ECOFLEX InnPlace Dog Crate & End Table, Indoor Furniture Style Pet Kennel for Small, Medium, Large & XL Dogs, Durable Composite, Russet Brown, Medium
Best furniture style
$123.99
- Durable ECOFLEX Build – Constructed from non‑toxic, recycled polymers and reclaimed wood fiber for reliable moisture, odor, and scratch resistance and Stainless Steel Tubing Accents
- Secure & Stylish Featuring stainless steel tubing spindles. Small & Medium sizes feature a single stainless steel latch; Large & Extra Large sizes include dual latches. Medium size for dogs up to 50lbs. Inner Dimensions 26.77"L x 17.72"W x 20.87"H
- Classic End Table Crate Design This furniture style crate doubles as a functional side table, seamlessly blending into your home décor while providing a cozy space for your dog.
✓ In Stock
The New Age Pet ECOFLEX InnPlace solves the aesthetic problem that makes dog crates feel like a concession. Most wire crates signal 'pet owner' loudly and unambiguously. The InnPlace in Russet Brown with stainless steel spindles reads as furniture first. The ECOFLEX material is the sleeper advantage: real wood furniture-style crates warp from moisture and absorb pet odors over time. ECOFLEX resists both, and it cleans with a standard household wipe-down rather than a scrub brush. The medium model's interior dimensions (26.77"L × 17.72"W × 20.87"H) suit dogs up to 50 lbs - Corgis, Cocker Spaniels, and similarly-sized breeds who live in open-plan spaces where a wire kennel would feel out of place.
07
Best Heavy-Duty XL
NUGRIART 48-Inch Heavy Duty Steel Crate#
NUGRIART 48 Inch Heavy Duty Indestructible Dog Crate, XL Steel Escape-Proof Kennel for Large Dogs, Double Door Design with 4 Locking Wheels & Reinforced Baseplate, Ideal for High-Anxiety Dogs
Best heavy-duty XL
$99.99
- Indestructible & Maximum Security: Engineered with upgraded 20-gauge steel framing and reinforced 0.8-inch-diameter steel tubes, this crate offers superior strength and chew resistance. Features dual heavy-duty slide-bolt latches for ultimate security and prevention of escapes. Ideal for large, powerful breeds, and dogs with separation anxiety.
- Ultra-Durable & Dog-Safe Flooring: Our upgraded baseplate is engineered with reinforced structural design, supporting up to 250 lbs - 40% stronger than typical wire floors. It features claw-resistant coating and optimized grid spacing to protect paws and reduce joint pressure. The included ABS tray is odor-resistant, warp-proof even under extreme temperatures, and wipes clean in seconds.
- Convenient Feeding & Easy Cleaning: Features a wide front door and an open able top panel for easy access during feeding and interaction. The low entry threshold allows your dog to enter and exit comfortably.Cleaning is simple with the removable leak-proof plastic pan and upgraded metal tray - both slide out smoothly for quick washing and help maintain a clean home.
✓ In Stock
The NUGRIART 48-inch XL occupies a compelling gap in the market: the space between standard wire crates and the $300+ professional options. The 20-gauge steel framing and 0.8-inch diameter tubes represent a genuine step up in material strength from the lighter 18–19 gauge wire used in most consumer wire crates. The reinforced baseplate - rated to 250 lbs - addresses a real structural weakness in standard wire crates, where the floor panel bends under a large dog's repeated impact. The four locking wheels are a practical touch for owners who want to move the crate between kitchen and bedroom without recruiting help.
08
Best Soft-Sided
EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate#
EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed (2 Year Warranty), Indoor & Outdoor Pet Home (36" L x 24" W x 28" H, Blue Gray)
Best soft-sided for travel
$105.99
- This 36" soft crate measures 36" long x 24" wide x 28" high, which is 2" wider and 4" higher than most other brand 36" soft crates. The extra space provides a more spacious and comfortable environment for your dog. The soft crate is fully assembled and can be set up and folded down in seconds, without requiring any tools
- The crate frame is constructed from sturdy steel tubing, while the crate cover is made of high-quality, durable 600D fabric and hex mesh fabric. This makes a well-ventilated, stylish, lightweight, and durable crate that provides a comfortable and secure environment for your dog
- The crate features three mesh doors located on the top, front, and side, providing convenient access, improved sunlight, and breathability. The front and side doors have zipper locks to ensure safety and security. Additionally, the crate has two accessory pockets located on the top and back for added storage. The crate cover and bed cover are both removable and washable, making maintenance and cleaning easy
Only 2 left in stock - order soon.
Editor’s Note
Soft-Sided Crates Are Not for Crate Training
Soft-sided crates are designed exclusively for dogs who are already fully crate trained and reliably calm. An untrained puppy or anxious dog will push through a mesh door in minutes - and early escape experiences teach the dog that persistence defeats the crate, creating a much harder problem to fix. Start crate training with a wire crate. Only transition to soft-sided when your dog voluntarily rests in their crate with the door open.
09
Best Vehicle Transport System
Ruff Land Kennels Compatible Tie Down Kit#
Ruff Land Kennels Compatible Tie Down Kit with 4 Ratchet Straps, D-Ring Anchors, Hardware Set, The Dog Agility Shop Brand
Best vehicle transport system
$56.99
- COMPLETE KIT: Set includes 4 heavy-duty ratchet straps, 4 D-ring mounting anchors, and all necessary installation hardware for secure kennel mounting
- SECURE MOUNTING: D-ring anchors provide strong attachment points while the ratchet mechanism ensures tight, reliable tension for maximum stability
- UNIVERSAL DESIGN: Compatible with Ruff Land Kennels, allowing for safe and stable transport of your pet carrier in various vehicles
Only 2 left in stock - order soon.
The Ruff Land Tie Down Kit addresses a safety gap that's easy to overlook until something goes wrong: a heavy plastic kennel in an unsecured truck bed becomes a projectile under hard braking. The four ratchet straps apply firm, adjustable tension from multiple angles, while the D-ring anchors create permanent attachment points rated for the load. This is an essential purchase for any dog owner who routinely transports their dog in a truck bed or open cargo area - the $56.99 cost is trivial compared to the risk of a shifted or ejected kennel at highway speed.
10
Best for Large & Giant Breeds
ProSelect Empire Cage#
ProSelect Empire Cages - Medium
Best for large and giant breeds
$382.33
- Empire dog cage is designed specifically to contain powerful or aggressive dogs
- It feature strong steel tubing, stout dual door latches and heavy-duty welding at stress points
- Made of 20-gauge steel and reinforced by 1/2-inch diameter steel tubes
Only 3 left in stock (more on the way).
11
Best Airline-Approved
Petmate Sky Kennel 40"#
Petmate Sky Kennel - For Air and Travel, Airline Compliant Dog Crate for Pets up 70-90 lbs, Heavy Duty Dog Kennel, Made in the USA- 40 Inches
Best airline-approved
$219.99
- FIRST-CLASS COMFORT FOR PETS: The Petmate Sky Kennel meets IATA requirements for live animal transport and meets most airline cargo specifications, providing secure air travel for pets; it includes 360-degree ventilation and tie-down strap holes
- EASY TRAVEL PREPARATION: The Sky Kennel is a travel dog crate that comes with essentials including two 'LIVE ANIMAL' stickers, a food and water cup, ID stickers, and an absorbent pad to provide a great travel experience for you and your pet
- SPACIOUS INTERIOR FOR LARGE DOGS: Ideal for Labrador Retriever or similar, this large dog kennel accommodates pets 70-90 lbs, offering enough room to walk and rest comfortably during travel, with interior dimensions of 36.25" L x 24.75" W x 28.8" H
Only 2 left in stock (more on the way).
12
Best Budget Large Crate
Carlson Pet Products Single Door Metal Dog Crate, Large 42"#
Carlson Pet Products Single Door Metal Dog Crate, Large 42" Dog Crate for Large Dogs, Foldable Collapsible Dog Kennel with Removable Tray, Portable Wire Dog Cage for Training & Travel
Best budget large crate
$52.81
- DURABLE METAL DOG CRATE: Strong wire dog crate and dog cage designed to provide a secure and comfortable space for your pet. The sturdy metal construction and multi-point locking door help keep large dogs safely contained while allowing excellent airflow and visibility.
- IDEAL LARGE DOG & PUPPY CRATE: 42"L x 28"W x 30.5"H large dog crate designed for large breeds up to 95 pounds. Comfortably fits dogs up to 32 inches long and up to 25 inches tall while providing plenty of room for resting and relaxing.
- FOLDABLE & COLLAPSIBLE FOR TRAVEL: This collapsible dog crate folds nearly flat in seconds with no tools required. Easy to transport and store, making it perfect for travel, car rides, camping, or temporary indoor dog kennels.
Only 1 left in stock - order soon.
Editor’s Note
Pro Tip: How to Measure Your Dog for Crate Size
Measure your dog from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail (not the tail tip) for length, and from the floor to the top of the head or ear tips (whichever is taller) for height. Add 4 inches to both measurements - that's your minimum interior crate dimension. Bigger is not better for crate training: excess space encourages bathroom accidents inside the crate. If you're buying for a puppy, choose the adult size crate and use the included divider panel to match their current size. You'll save money by not buying multiple crates as they grow.
13
What to Look For When Buying a Dog Crate#
Buying a crate is a long-term decision - most dogs use the same crate for years. The wrong choice isn't just wasteful; it can create negative associations with crating that take months of patient retraining to undo. Here are the factors that actually matter when evaluating your options [4][5].
Size and Fit - The Most Important Factor
A crate must allow your dog to stand without ducking, turn around in a full circle, and lie down fully extended. That's the minimum. For crate training, you want no more than this - excess space lets the dog designate one corner as a bathroom, which defeats the core mechanism that makes crate training work in the first place. The divider panel included with the iCrate and LifeStages models is the practical solution for puppies: shrink the space to fit now, expand it as they grow [4].
Material Type - Match the Crate to the Dog's Temperament
Wire crates are the gold standard for initial crate training because visibility and airflow reduce anxiety - most dogs accept them readily when properly introduced [1]. Plastic travel crates offer more enclosure and work for some anxious dogs who prefer a den-like space. Soft-sided crates are only for already-trained dogs in calm contexts. Heavy-duty aluminum or thick-gauge steel is reserved for escape artists and high-anxiety cases - powerful breeds like American Staffordshire Terriers, Belgian Malinois, and Siberian Huskies who can bend standard wire in an afternoon.
Security Hardware - Latches Matter More Than You Think
A clever dog can learn to nose open a basic slide-bolt latch in under an hour. MidWest's Paw Block system, Impact's paddle and butterfly latch combination, and NUGRIART's dual bolt system represent escalating levels of security. For a calm dog with no escape history, basic latches are sufficient. For a known escape artist, go directly to multi-point locking systems or aluminum crate construction - mid-range 'heavy duty' claims from pet store brands often disappoint in practice.
Airline Compliance - Only If You Need It
IATA compliance is a specific certification that the crate meets international air transport requirements - it's not a general quality indicator. If you fly with your dog, this certification is non-negotiable and worth the price premium. If you don't fly with your dog, an IATA-compliant plastic kennel is simply heavier and more expensive than alternatives that serve daily use better.
Furniture Style - Form and Function
Furniture-style crates are a legitimate option for dogs who have already completed crate training and are used as long-term resting spots in open living spaces. The key consideration is material: real wood warp from pet moisture over time. Composite materials like ECOFLEX genuinely resist this. Furniture-style crates are not suitable for initial crate training, anxious dogs, or dogs with any chewing tendency - the aesthetic investment disappears quickly under those conditions.
- Size: dog stands, turns, and lies down fully - no excess space for crate training
- Divider panel included if buying for a puppy or growing dog
- Material appropriate for dog's temperament: wire → plastic → heavy-duty steel → aluminum
- Latch security level matches dog's escape history
- Removable tray included for accident cleanup
- IATA compliance required only if air travel is planned
- Furniture style only for dogs who are already fully crate trained
- Collapsibility matters if frequent travel or limited storage space is a factor
Editor’s Note
When to Upgrade from Wire to Heavy-Duty
If your dog has bent wire rods, escaped a standard crate more than once, or shows signs of extreme separation anxiety - destructive behavior that extends to the crate itself - it's time to upgrade. The NUGRIART 20-gauge steel crate at $99.99 is the cost-effective bridge between standard wire and full aluminum construction. Don't wait for a second escape to act: the risk of injury from bent wire or sharp edges is real, and early escape success reinforces the behavior significantly.
14
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Crates and Crate Training#
Frequently Asked Questions
Q
What size dog crate do I need for my breed?
Measure your dog's length from nose to tail base and height from floor to the top of the head or ears. Add 4 inches to each measurement to get the minimum interior crate dimensions. General categories: dogs under 25 lbs → 24-inch crate; 25–45 lbs → 30-inch crate; 45–70 lbs → 36-inch crate; 70–95 lbs → 42-inch crate; 90–110+ lbs → 48-inch crate. For puppies, purchase the adult size and use a divider panel - this saves you from buying multiple crates as the dog grows, and divider panels are included with most MidWest models.
Q
How long does crate training a puppy typically take?
Most puppies can be considered reliably crate trained in 4–8 weeks, but pace varies based on consistency, age, and how positive early experiences are. A 10-week-old puppy introduced gently and rewarded for calm crate behavior will typically accept the crate as a resting space within 2 weeks. The biggest variable is owner consistency - rushing the process by closing the door before the puppy is comfortable creates anxiety that can take months to undo. Patience in the first two weeks saves weeks of trouble later.
Q
Is it cruel to crate a dog during the day while at work?
Crating is not inherently cruel, but duration matters critically. The ASPCA recommends that adult dogs not be crated for more than 4–5 hours at a stretch, and puppies significantly less - roughly one hour per month of age plus one hour, with a maximum of 4 hours for any puppy. A dog who is well-exercised before crating, has a comfortable surface, and has been gradually acclimated to longer periods will typically rest contentedly. Crating a bored, under-exercised dog for 8–9 hours is a welfare concern regardless of crate quality.
Q
Should I cover my dog's crate at night?
Covering the crate with a blanket or purpose-made crate cover can help anxious dogs feel more secure - the enclosure mimics the den environment that dogs instinctively prefer for sleep. Most dogs adjust readily to covered crates. The critical requirement is ventilation: never seal all four sides, and always ensure airflow through at least one uncovered panel. If your dog shows signs of overheating - panting, restlessness, or seeking cooler surfaces - remove or partially lift the cover.
Q
Are wire or plastic crates better for crate training?
Wire crates are the gold standard for initial crate training for most dogs. Visibility allows the dog to observe their environment, which reduces anxiety, and ventilation prevents overheating. Plastic crates are appropriate for dogs who prefer an enclosed den-like space and are required for airline travel. Trainer and veterinary consensus consistently favors wire for new crate training, with plastic or enclosed options reserved for dogs who actively seek more enclosed spaces or who will be traveling by air.
Q
How do I stop my dog from whining in the crate?
Whining is almost always caused by insufficient acclimation time - the dog hasn't yet learned that the crate is a safe, rewarding space. The correct protocol: feed meals inside the open crate before closing the door at all; close the door briefly for 30 seconds while you remain visible; gradually extend duration while staying in the room; then leave the room briefly; then leave the house for short periods. Never open the crate in response to whining - wait for even a brief moment of quiet before releasing the dog. A Kong filled with frozen peanut butter is one of the most effective crate acclimation tools available.
Q
At what age can I stop crating my dog overnight?
Most dogs are ready to sleep outside their crate overnight between 12–24 months, once they have demonstrated reliable house training, no destructive behavior when unsupervised, and consistently calm overnight crate behavior. The transition should be gradual: start with the crate door open overnight so the dog can choose; then confine to one room before granting full house access. Some dogs genuinely prefer their crate throughout adulthood. There is no obligation to transition if the current arrangement is working well for both dog and owner.
Q
Can I use a soft-sided crate to crate train my puppy?
No. Soft-sided crates are not appropriate for initial crate training under any circumstances. An untrained puppy or anxious dog will push through a mesh door in minutes, and early escape success teaches the dog that persistence defeats the crate - creating a significantly harder training problem. Soft-sided crates are appropriate only for dogs who are fully crate trained and reliably calm, and are best suited for travel, hotel stays, and situations where portability matters more than containment.
Rate this review
If you found this helpful, tap a star.
