Best Dog Crates 2026 - Complete Comparison Guide

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A properly sized crate provides your dog with a safe, den-like space for rest, house training, and travel. Whether you're crate training a puppy, need a secure travel carrier, or want a cozy retreat for your adult dog, the right crate makes all the difference.

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Quick Comparison: Top Dog Crates

*Prices vary by size. Shown are typical ranges for medium to large sizes.

MidWest iCrate

MidWest iCrate is the best-selling wire crate for good reason. It's affordable, durable, and includes essential features like a divider panel for growing puppies.

Pros

• Excellent value for quality
• Includes divider panel for puppies
• Double door design (front and side)
• Folds flat for storage/travel
• Includes plastic pan for easy cleaning

Cons

• Not for determined escape artists
• Wire spacing may catch some collars
• Metal pan can be noisy

Petmate Sky Kennel

Petmate Sky Kennel is designed specifically for airline travel and meets IATA requirements for most carriers. The secure design keeps pets safe during transit.

Pros

• IATA airline approved
• Four-way vault door with secure latches
• Heavy-duty plastic construction
• Ventilation on all sides
• Includes "Live Animal" stickers and ID clips

Cons

• Not collapsible for storage
• Takes up storage space
• Less visibility for dog

Impact Dog Crate

Impact Dog Crates are the ultimate solution for escape-prone or anxious dogs. Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, they're crash-tested and virtually indestructible.

Pros

• Crash-tested for vehicle safety
• 100% escape-proof design
• Lifetime warranty
• Lightweight despite strength
• Easy to clean aluminum construction

Cons

• Premium price point
• Heavy for frequent moving
• Industrial appearance

Diggs Revol Dog Crate

Diggs Revol reinvented the wire crate with a modern design, child-safety inspired latches, and premium materials that look good in any home.

Pros

• Beautiful modern design
• Child-safety inspired diamond mesh
• Ceiling hatch for puppy access
• Collapses with one hand
• Built-in puppy divider

Cons

• Higher price than traditional wire crates
• Limited size options
• May be overkill for calm dogs

EliteField Soft Crate

EliteField makes the best soft-sided crate for travel and temporary use. Lightweight and portable, it's ideal for calm, crate-trained dogs.

Pros

• Extremely lightweight and portable
• Sets up in seconds
• Multiple door access points
• Includes carrying bag and fleece bed
• Great for camping/travel

Cons

• Not for chewers or scratchers
• Not for unsupervised use
• Can tip over with active dogs

Crate Types Explained

• Wire Crates: Best ventilation, visibility, foldable. Great for home use and crate training.
• Plastic Crates: More enclosed, airline-friendly, easier to clean. Ideal for travel and nervous dogs.
• Soft-Sided Crates: Lightweight, portable, comfortable. Only for calm, crate-trained dogs.
• Heavy-Duty Crates: Steel or aluminum construction. For escape artists and anxious dogs.
• Furniture Crates: Designed to blend with home decor. Great for living spaces.

Size Guide

Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Measure your dog and add 2-4 inches to each dimension.

• 18-22" (XS): Chihuahuas, Toy Poodles (up to 10 lbs)
• 24" (S): Pugs, Boston Terriers (11-25 lbs)
• 30" (M): Beagles, Cocker Spaniels (26-40 lbs)
• 36" (L): Bulldogs, Australian Shepherds (41-70 lbs)
• 42" (XL): Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers (71-90 lbs)
• 48" (XXL): German Shepherds, Rottweilers (91-110 lbs)
• 54"+ (Giant): Great Danes, Mastiffs (110+ lbs)

Our Recommendations by Need

• Best Overall: MidWest iCrate
• Best for Puppies: Diggs Revol (with divider)
• Best for Air Travel: Petmate Sky Kennel
• Best for Escape Artists: Impact Dog Crate
• Best Budget: Petmate Vari Kennel
• Best for Living Room: New Age Pet ecoFLEX

Should I get a crate with a divider?

Yes, if you're getting a puppy. A divider lets you buy an adult-sized crate while limiting space during house training. Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area, but too much space allows them to use one end as a bathroom.

Wire or plastic crate - which is better?

Wire crates offer better ventilation and visibility, making them ideal for home use. Plastic crates feel more den-like and are required for airline travel. Many owners have both types for different situations.

How do I make the crate comfortable?

Add a comfortable bed or pad (if your dog doesn't chew), a safe chew toy, and consider covering wire crates with a blanket for a den-like feel. Place the crate in a family area so your dog feels included.