Updated October 2026 · Research-based guide · We may earn a commission from links on this page.
A crate should feel like a den, not a cage: a safe, quiet spot for naps, house-training and car rides. But the right crate for a growing puppy is very different from the right one for a 90-lb escape artist or a dog who flies cargo.
Below are our picks by situation, then a quick sizing guide so you buy the right size the first time.
Top picks at a glance
Best overall
MidWest iCrate Single Door Wire Crate
Folding wire crate with divider and leak-proof pan.
Best for escape artists
Impact High Anxiety Dog Crate
Welded aluminum for dogs that break standard crates.
Best overall
1. MidWest iCrate Single Door Wire Crate
The go-to wire crate for most homes. It folds flat without tools, includes a leak-proof plastic pan and a divider panel so a puppy’s space can grow with them, and comes in sizes from extra-small to XXL. Rounded corners and a slide-bolt latch keep it safe and simple.
- Good: folding, divider included, leak-proof pan, great ventilation, wide size range.
- Watch out: wire crates are not the most escape-proof for determined dogs, and they are bulky to carry.
Best for puppies
2. MidWest iCrate Starter Kit
Everything a new puppy needs in one box: the crate, a divider panel, a fleece bed, a cover and two bowls. The double-door design helps fit it into awkward corners.
- Good: complete kit, divider for growing puppies, collapsible, leak-proof tray.
- Watch out: included bed and cover are basic and may not survive a teething puppy.
Best for travel
3. Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel
A hard-sided plastic kennel with a steel-wire door and squeeze latch. The manufacturer says it is designed to meet most airline cargo requirements, and the enclosed shell feels secure for nervous travelers.
- Good: sturdy shell, cozy enclosed design, easy to clean, airline-friendly design.
- Watch out: does not fold down, so it takes up space when not in use; always confirm your airline’s current rules.
Best for escape artists
4. Impact High Anxiety Dog Crate
A welded aluminum crate designed for dogs that chew, dig or break out of standard crates. The maker backs it with a lifetime dog-damage guarantee.
- Good: extremely strong, safer than wire for dogs that injure themselves escaping, stackable.
- Watch out: very expensive and heavy; a crate will not fix separation anxiety on its own, so involve your vet or a behaviorist.
Best for giant breeds
5. MidWest Ginormous 54″ Crate
Built for dogs over roughly 90 lbs, such as Great Danes and Mastiffs, with tighter 1.5-inch wire spacing and a removable pan.
- Good: true giant-breed size, sturdy, folds for transport.
- Watch out: divider sold separately; assembly is a two-person job.
Best furniture-style
6. EasyCom Dog Crate Furniture
A wood-and-metal crate that doubles as a console table. It has an adjustable divider and a raised base, and the flat top holds lamps or plants.
- Good: looks like furniture, good ventilation, useful tabletop.
- Watch out: not collapsible, and less escape-proof than metal crates; best for dogs who are already crate-trained.
Which crate fits your situation?
House-training a puppy
A wire crate with a divider keeps the space small enough that your puppy will not soil one end.
Flying with your dog
A hard-sided plastic kennel; check your airline’s size and hardware rules before you book.
Car rides
A sturdy, appropriately sized crate secured in the cargo area is safer than a loose dog.
Dogs that escape or chew
Heavy-duty aluminum or steel crates with secure latches.
Small apartments
Furniture-style crates earn their space by doubling as a table.
Giant breeds
Only crates actually rated for giant dogs; a cramped crate is uncomfortable and unsafe.
How to choose and size a dog crate
Measure your dog
Measure from nose to the base of the tail and from the floor to the top of the shoulders, then add 2 to 4 inches. Your dog should be able to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably.
Rough size guide
As a starting point: Chihuahua 18 to 22 inches, French Bulldog 24 inches, Labrador 36 to 42 inches, German Shepherd 42 to 48 inches, Great Dane 54 inches. Always check your own dog’s measurements.
Wire vs. plastic vs. soft
Wire crates ventilate well and fold; plastic kennels feel more den-like and suit travel; soft crates are light but not escape-proof and should only be used with calm, crate-trained dogs.
Safety details
Secure latches, rounded edges, and no gaps that can trap paws, jaws or collars. Remove collars and tags before crating to avoid snagging.
Make it comfortable
Add a washable bed or mat, keep water available for longer stays, and place the crate where your dog can still see family life.
Frequently asked questions
How long can a dog stay in a crate?
It depends on age and needs. Puppies need frequent potty breaks, and adult dogs should not spend most of their day crated. Ask your vet or a trainer for a schedule that fits your dog.
Should I cover my dog’s crate?
Many dogs settle better with a breathable cover that makes the crate feel den-like. Keep the front partly open for airflow and watch for overheating.
Wire or plastic crate for a puppy?
Wire crates with dividers are the most practical for house-training because you can adjust the space. Plastic kennels are great for travel later.
What size crate for a puppy that will grow?
Buy the crate for your puppy’s expected adult size and use a divider to shrink the space for now.
Is crate training cruel?
Introduced gradually with rewards, a crate becomes a safe resting place many dogs choose on their own. It should never be used as punishment.
How we chose
This is a research-based guide. We did not test these crates hands-on. We compared manufacturer specifications, published expert reviews and recurring owner feedback, focusing on safety, durability, escape resistance, ease of cleaning and portability. Read our full editorial policy.