10 Best Dog Crates in 2022 (MidWest, EliteField, and More)
No matter what life stage your pooch is in, crates come in handy when you need to create a containment space for your dog. The main considerations when picking the best dog crate for your pup will come down to safety and comfort. Of course, you also want a practical dog crate that will fit into your lifestyle and home!
Fortunately, when it comes to the best dog crates, there are plenty of options to suit every possible need. Whether you need a travel, indoor, or outdoor crate, there is a product designed specifically for your needs. If the sheer number of options makes you a little unsure about which crate is best, don't fret! We are here to help.
Quick List - Top Dog Crates
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How Do You Use a Dog Crate?
Crates give you a safe space to contain your dog when the need arises. Dog crates help to create a safe “den” atmosphere that many dogs find comforting. This is especially true for dogs with separation anxiety. Let’s not forget that a crate makes transporting your pet much easier, whether it's just to the vet or on a long vacation!
The Basics of Using a Crate
While crates are a practical accessory for any pet owner, always ensure that you are using your dog crate correctly. Remember a crate should never be used as punishment for your dog. This will not only cause your dog to view the crate as a negative space, but they may also injure themselves trying to escape.
Dogs still need plenty of socialization and exercise, so do not leave your dog in a dog crate too long. Always make time to take your dog out for exercise and some fresh air. Dogs also need human contact, so being isolated for too long may make your dog anxious.
Remember that your dog will need regular breaks to go to the bathroom too. Puppies especially should not be confined in a crate for more than three hours at a time. Older dogs, especially those being house trained, should be let out every four hours to prevent them from pooping in the crate.
Give Them Some Privacy
A crate provides your dog with a private space they can retreat to. Dogs can benefit from having a place to hang out when they need to rest or relax in privacy. If you have a dog that tends to get anxious and stressed, especially when you have visitors in the home, a crate can be helpful.
Use it as a Toilet Training Tool
You can also use a dog crate to train your puppy or new dog on the appropriate place to go to the bathroom. A dog crate also helps you contain dogs that tend to get destructive, especially when you are not in the house. You ensure that they will not damage furniture or property since they are restricted to the crate.
Keep Them Safe
Your dog crate also comes in handy if you want to keep your dog safe from potential hazards. Keeping curious pups away from open pools, construction sites, or other unsafe areas of your home is paramount. A crate can be used either indoors or outdoors to keep your dog in safely in one spot.
Best Dog Crates to Buy Online Buying Guide
It can be hard to figure out what crate is best for your dog. We recommend keeping the size of your dog, your needs, crate materials, and safety in mind! Check our buying guide for more helpful tips to make your search a little easier.
Consider the Size of Your Dog
Dog crates come in a variety of sizes to suit different breeds and body types. Your dog should be able to comfortably sit, stand, and lie down in his crate. His measurements will, therefore, determine the size of the crate you need to get.
A crate that is too small for your dog will make your dog panic and possibly injure himself while trying to escape or get comfortable in the limited space.
Follow the 5-Inch Rule
As a general guideline, go for a crate that is at least five inches longer than the length of your pet from the tip of his nose to the base of his tail. The ideal height of the crate should be four inches taller than your pet.
However, buying a crate that is too big may encourage your dog to use one corner as a pooping site since he will still have enough living space left. You can avoid this by buying a crate that hits that sweet spot between cramped and spacious.
Remember to Leave Room for Growing Puppies
When buying a crate for a puppy, always bear in mind that they are still growing. If you buy one that’s just big enough for a puppy, they will soon outgrow it! A crate divider can help you customize a crate for a puppy. You can then remove the divider once your puppy is grown.
Decide What You Need the Dog Crate For
Crates can be used for a variety of purposes, including training, indoor or outdoor use, and traveling. Think about your lifestyle and your pup's personality to help you choose.
Indoor Crates are Ideal for Normal, Every Day Use
Indoor crates should be sturdy, especially if your dog is rambunctious and prone to roughhousing. They should also have enough room to accommodate a bed for your dog so that he is comfortable while in the crate.
Compact Crates are Suited for Travel
If you want a crate specifically for traveling purposes, go for portable and compact crates. For example, plastic crates are easy to carry from one point to another! Always ensure that the crate is well aerated so your dog does not get too hot.
Weather Resistance for Outdoor Crates
Outdoor crates need to be weather resistant to avoid damage from the elements. For example, rain or humidity can lead to rusting! They also need to provide your dog with sufficient cover from the elements. You may need to add extra insulation for cooler climates.
Sturdy Ones for Lively Dogs
If you want to keep a destructive dog out of trouble, a heavy-duty crate is the best option. These types of crates are ideal for large breeds that may damage other types of crates. Look for thick, rigid plastic or metal. Secure locking mechanisms are a nice added feature too!
Soft Crates for Comfort and Privacy
Soft crates are great for dogs who are calm and comfortable being confined in their crates. They have soft, flexible sides and are more for privacy. They provide your dog with a safe space! This type usually isn't used solely for restricting movement.
Choose a Material That’s Best for You and Your Dog
Dog create materials vary, but you can typically expect to see metal and plastic. Depending on your needs, some materials will be better suited for your needs than others.
Plastic for Travel and Anti-Anxiety
Plastic dog crates come in a variety of sizes. They are a convenient and practical choice if you want a crate for vet trips and traveling.
Plastic crates are also a good choice if you want to limit visibility while the dog is in the crate. Limited visibility can help to keep dogs with anxiety issues calm since they are not being triggered by their surroundings.
Metal for Large or Lively Dogs
Wire crates are a good choice if you want something to use indoors since they are easy to set up. Pick one that is made from durable, heavy-duty material that will not bend or rust with everyday use. Wire crates are also a good choice if your dog is an escape artist. This is because they tend to be more sturdy than plastic or soft sided crates.
Metal crates are a practical option for large dogs. They come with plenty of aeration and space to provide your furry friend with enough room to sleep, stand and lie down comfortably in his space. The AmazonBasics and Midwest metal crates are great options of durable and functional metal crates.
Fabric for Small, Medium, and Well-Behaved Dogs
Fabric is often used for soft-sided crates. This material is usually best for small breeds or puppies. However, fabric crates are not recommended for dogs that may chew or try to escape, as the material may not be durable enough to withstand your pup!
Furniture Crates for Aesthetic Appeal
Furniture crates are stylish and compact crates that can double as pieces of furniture. If you want an attractive dog crate, furniture crates are the way to go.
Furniture crates are not ideal for dogs that like to scratch or chew since they are made of wood. Wood splinters can be hazardous for your dog, so avoid these if you have a chew-prone pup!
Go for Crates with Safety Features
Dogs can easily injure themselves in a crate that is not well constructed. Look for crates that have safety features like rounded edges and secure latches. This will give you peace of mind to know that your dog is safely contained.
Some dogs like to chew or scratch their cages, so any crate with sharp or rough edges is potentially dangerous. Remember the crate is supposed to be comfortable for your pooch!
10 Best Dog Crates Ranking
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | MidWest Homes Folding Metal Dog Crate | | A Versatile Crate for Growing Dogs | |
2 | AmazonBasics Folding Metal Dog Crate | | A Convenient and Practical Option for Dogs of Any Age | |
3 | Petmate ProValu Double Door Wire Dog Crate | | A Practical Crate for Puppies and Small Breeds | |
4 | Carlson Pet Products Metal Dog Crate | | The Perfect Security for Large Dogs | |
5 | Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel | | The Ultimate Comfort Crate for Travel | |
6 | MidWest iCrate Starter Kit | | An All-Inclusive Crate Ideal for New Dog Owners | |
7 | EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate | | The Comfortable Crate for a Well-Behaved Pooch | |
8 | New World Folding Metal Dog Crate | | A Spacious and Practical Crate for Your Large Dog | |
9 | Crown Pet Products Wood Pet Crate | | A Stylish Indoor Crate for Medium to Large Dogs | |
10 | Petnation Port-A-Crate | | A Spacious and Comfortable Crate Ideal for Traveling |
A Versatile Crate for Growing Dogs
With a convenient divider that allows you to manage the interior space of the crate, you can adjust the size as your dog grows. The carry handle and roller feet make this crate easy to move around without damaging your floor too.
Heavy-duty latches ensure your dog stays put, while the removable plastic tray makes cleaning a breeze. You can be sure your dog will not injure themselves in this crate due to its patented rounded corner clips too.
Some reviewers did find that this crate rusts if left outside. However, most reviewers loved that this crate is sturdy enough to contain large breeds comfortably and safely. The fact that it is easy to set up is also a definite plus.
A Convenient and Practical Option for Dogs of Any Age
The free divider that comes with this crate makes it easy to use it for both puppies and adult dogs. The two doors make access convenient and easy. It also has a sturdy frame that provides proper ventilation and visibility for your pooch!
Safety is one of the key considerations when picking the best crate for your dog. This one comes with rounded corners for optimal safety. Reviewers loved that the set up for this crate is super easy and that you can fold it down in seconds for easy storage and portability.
If your dog is a particularly notorious escape artist, the two slide-bolt latches on each door will ensure they are safely contained in a comfortable space.
A Practical Crate for Puppies and Small Breeds
This dog crate from Petmate comes with a divider panel to help you customize the interior of the crate if need be. It is ideal for small and medium breeds, but other sizes are available too.
The sturdy frame of this crate ensures that your pooch is contained securely and safely. It comes with a removable plastic pan for hassle-free maintenance. For added safety, the edges of this crate are rounded to avoid injury to your pup.
Reviewers use this crate for used potty training and reducing unwanted behaviors like chewing and barking. They like that it's easy to assemble and doesn't wobble once it's put together.
The Perfect Security for Large Dogs
If your dog is an escape artist, you need a secure dog crate. This metal crate from Carlson is designed specifically for large dogs. This crate is spacious and well aerated to ensure your dog is comfortably contained.
This crate is available in a variety of sizes, ranging from small to extra-large, to suit any breed of dog.
The multi-point locking system will help your pooch stay put in his crate. Reviewers also loved that this folding crate is easy to carry around and store. The removable pan makes it easy to clean the crate too!
The Ultimate Comfort Crate for Travel
Traveling with your furry friend can be a hassle for you and your pet. This travel crate from Petmate is designed for comfort and safety during travel. The sturdy plastic material ensures your dog is secure while the windows provide aeration.
This dog crate meets airline cargo specifications and will make traveling with your pet easier. It has tie-down strap holes to ensure safety as well. This crate is also recommended for dogs with separation anxiety since the covered sides provide them with privacy.
Some reviewers did find that the interior of the crate is a bit smaller than indicated. However, since it is available in a variety of sizes, you can easily find a suitable crate size that will house your pooch comfortably.
An All-Inclusive Crate Ideal for New Dog Owners
This dog crate is designed to help people adjust to being pet owners in a hassle-free way. It comes complete with a fleece bed, privacy cover, and two feeding bowls. This crate is available in a variety of different sizes to suit any dog breed and size.
With a sturdy metal frame and secure latches, this crate ensures your pooch is safely confined. Reviewers loved the privacy cover that comes with the crate, as it helps to keep anxious dogs calm. This crate is also easy to set up and comes with all the accessories a new dog owner needs.
If you are looking for a crate to train your new furry friend, this spacious and comfy crate is a good place to start.
The Comfortable Crate for a Well-Behaved Pooch
Soft-sided crates are a great choice if your dog is crate-trained and enjoys spending time in his den. This travel-friendly crate has three mesh doors. This crate also comes with a padded shoulder strap to make carrying your pooch a breeze.
Reviewers loved that this crate requires no assembly and can be folded down easily for easy storage. Since it is a soft-sided crate, it may not be the best option for dogs that like to escape confinement. However, when it comes to traveling and providing a comfortable space for an obedient pup, this fits the bill.
A Spacious and Practical Crate for Your Large Dog
If you are having a hard time finding a crate that has enough space for a large breed, look no further. This metal crate is designed to hold large dogs ranging from 70 to 90 pounds. It is sturdy enough for even the most mischievous dog. The heavy-duty latches ensure you can lock the crate securely as well.
Reviewers loved that this crate is easy to assemble and move around. It also has a leak-proof plastic pan for easy cleaning and maintenance. The foldable design means you can easily store or travel with your crate too!
A Stylish Indoor Crate for Medium to Large Dogs
If you want a versatile and stylish crate that can also double up as an end table, this wooden crate is a safe bet. It is made from durable hardwood that is sturdy enough to contain your boisterous pup in comfort.
The waterproof melamine floor means cleaning this crate will be a breeze. It also a swing door for easy access.
This wood crate comes with plenty of ventilation and a 360-degree view to ensure your pet is comfortable while in containment. It can also comfortably accommodate a crate bed. Reviewers found this size was perfect for medium to large breeds.
A Spacious and Comfortable Crate Ideal for Traveling
This well-ventilated crate is an ideal option for traveling. This dog crate is both portable and durable! The perforated mesh windows ensure your pet is in a well-aerated environment. The mesh fabric provides privacy, which is ideal for anxious dogs.
Some dog owners did find that this crate is not tough enough for boisterous dogs. However, with two doors for easy access, quick set up, and industrial-strength zippers, most reviewers found that this crate ticks all right the boxes. The fact that it looks great is also a definite plus.
Looking for More Awesome Stuff for Your Dog?
In love with your pup? Of course you are! Check out these awesome pet products to show your dog some love.
Top 5 Dog Crates
No. 1: MidWest ｜Homes Folding Metal Dog Crate
No. 2: AmazonBasics ｜Folding Metal Dog Crate
No. 3: Petmate｜ProValu Double Door Wire Dog Crate
No. 4: Carlson Pet Products｜Metal Dog Crate
No. 5: Petmate｜Ultra Vari Kennel
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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