While investing in one of the best dog crates may not sound like the most exciting of purchases, this piece of canine kit is certainly one of the most important things you’ll own as a pet parent. From helping to potty train your puppy to keeping your dog safe when you’re not able to be with them, a good quality crate is money well spent.
Just like long lasting dog chews can keep your fur friend occupied when you’re too busy to play, a crate can keep them comfortable and secure when you have errands to run or when it’s time for them to get some sleep. You’ll also find a crate super helpful when you need a safe way to transport your pup from A to B.
“Crating a dog is a very useful thing to be able to do,” explains Dr. Joanna Woodnutt. “Dogs that have been trained to love their crate are easier to keep safe when you’re out of the house, or when you have visitors. It also gives them a safe space to retreat to when they’re afraid (such as noise phobias). One benefit that is often forgotten is that dogs who are used to being crated are calmer at the kennels and vets — as a vet, I can always tell which dogs are crate trained and which are not.”
To help you find the right crate for your canine companion, we rounded up our pick of the bunch, including crates that come in a range of sizes and styles to suit every need and budget. We also spoke further to Dr. Woodnutt to get her take on whether crating a dog during the day is cruel and how long you should crate them for.
The quick list
The best overall dog crate
Keep your precious pooch safe and secure with this sturdy double-door metal crate from New World. Versatile and durable, it's ideal for crate training or transporting your furkid from A to B.
The best dog crate for traveling in a car
Plan on transporting your fur pal from A to B in a vehicle? Then the Thule Allax M Compact Crate is the best option for both of you. The crash-tested Thule Allax dog crate is kitted out with multiple crumple zones and it even includes an escape hatch should a rear collision occur.
Best budget dog crate
This dog crate does a great job of providing all the features you could want from a dog crate, but it does it at a price that is a little less than the rest. How does it manage this? It provides double-door and single-door options.
Best premium dog crate
This dog crate is super durable, with a five-star crash test rating and a lifetime guarantee. It’s 12% cooler than the leading aluminum crate and features a double wall for shock protection. There are eight different colors to suit whatever your style is.
Best travel dog crate
The wire metal frame dog crate is a popular choice with a lot of dog owners, especially for indoor use. They are easy to fold down and carry, but they are not as portable or stylish as a soft dog crate.
Best durable dog crate
A seriously rugged and durable dog crate that's made in the USA, and while at 38 lbs it's light enough for any member of the family to move using its heavy-duty handles, it's more than solid enough to keep pooch in place, wherever you go.
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Best dog crate starter kit
If you’ve just got your first dog or have never ventured into the world of dog crates before, the idea of a starter kit sounds very tempting. So what does this dog crate starter kit include? As you might expect there is a dog crate, but you also get a fleece bed, a dog crate cover, plus a food and water bowl – and all neatly packed into a single box for easy delivery.
Best large dog crate
If your canine is on the large side, MidWest Homes for Pets is a great brand to explore. Their crates come in multiple sizes, including an extra-large 49 x 30.5 x 34.25 inches in their Ultima Pro range.
Best furniture-style dog crate
This elegant and dual-purpose piece serves as both a stylish end table and a dog crate and is made from a mixture of pressed wood and metal. Measuring 36.2 x 26.5 x 31.5 inches it's the perfect size to fit into your living space and can accommodate dogs up to 40lbs.
Best wooden dog crate
If you're looking for a furniture-style dog crate and your interior is more rustic in style than modern, then the FEANDREA Wooden Dog Crate offers an attractive option for both dog and owner.
Best collapsible dog crate
Some pets require travel crates that are a bit more heavy-duty. Generally, these will be ones that are quite bulky and heavy-duty, but happily, we've found one that doesn't take up a huge amount of space.
Best dog crate for home aesthetics
Created out of a non-toxic plastic-wood polymer composite material, it has a single door at the front and “windows” at the side, ensuring great visibility while allowing air to flow. You can also grab this crate in one of three different colors – Russet, Antique White and Espresso – each one giving off a classy appearance.
Best dog crates we recommend in 2024
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Best overall dog crate
Keep your precious pooch safe and secure with this sturdy double door metal crate from New World. Versatile and durable, it's ideal for crate training or transporting your furkid from A to B.
Available in five different sizes, ranging from the 24-inch model that's ideal for small breeds up to 10kg, all the way through to the 48-inch crate that will comfortably accommodate extra large dogs up to 50kg.
This two-door crate comes with a leak-proof plastic pan, so you don't need to worry about any spills leaking through onto your floors, and the heavy-duty slide-bolt latch securely locks the crate door in place, ensuring your hound will stay put.
We love how easy to assemble this crate is with no tools required and it folds flat, making it a breeze to store and super convenient to transport. The wire allows for plenty of ventilation and visibility and the rounded edges mean you won't snag yourself.
This is a high-quality crate at an affordable price and with the protective long-lasting black E-coat finish, it's one that will go the distance.
Best dog crate for traveling in a car
Plan on transporting your fur pal from A to B in a vehicle? Then the Thule Allax M Compact Crate is the best option for both of you. The crash-tested Thule Allax dog crate is kitted out with multiple crumple zones and it even includes an escape hatch should a rear collision occur.
Our tester and PetsRadar's former editor, Sophie tried out this crate with her cocker spaniel, Wally, who weighs 30 lbs and is 18 inches tall. She said: "We liked the safety features first and foremost and felt reassured that Wally was safe due to the crate’s rigorous crash tests."
Sophie added, "The door on the crate uses a gas damping mechanism which meant the door didn’t accidentally slam or rattle around when we forgot to close it during car journeys where Wally wasn’t with us."
While Wally has been crate trained, the large slats on the Thule Allax dog crate allow for lots of air and light to get in for good visibility. "After a good sniff of the crate and an initial lay down inside, Wally was won over and curled up for a snooze within minutes of us introducing the crate to him," Sophie said.
"We have a Nissan Duke SUV and chose the Medium Compact crate which meant our backseats had to be folded down but this is something we’re used to already. If you need your back seats for children or other passengers, we’d suggest taking some time to measure your car first."
We loved this dog crate from Thule but the quality and safety of it comes at a price…and a big one at that ($799) so it’s an investment for sure and is the most expensive crate we’ve tested. Having said that, once you purchase this crate, it’s very unlikely you’ll need to replace it any time soon.
Extra accessories Sophie tried include the Thule dog mat standard which was easy to wipe down and hardwearing. The bumper protector was also a welcomed addition as it saved from using old towels like Sophie had before, and again was easy to wipe after muddy walks. A storage bag that clips on the side of the crate and a leash hook were not essential but so handy for keeping a travel bowl and the leash safe in the car and at home.
Best budget dog crate
This dog crate does a great job of providing all the features you could want from a dog crate, but it does it at a price that is a little less than the rest. How does it manage this? It provides double-door and single-door options. The double-door option provides one at the narrow end of the crate and one on the side. But if you only need a single-door dog crate you can get one at a lower price that is hard to beat. The doors come fitted with the standard slide-bolt latches to firmly lock the door. You will find a single latch on smaller models and two latches on larger models.
The crate is easy to assemble and has a portable design. It is easy to fold down and easy to put back up. Like most other metal-frame dog crates, it folds flat, making it easy to store and easier to carry.
Some other neat little touches include the rounded edges and rounded side clips – no catching yourself on any sharp edges here. Simple roller feet adorn the bottom of the crate. This makes it easier to move: no need to drag or carry, just push. And the feet have the added bonus of helping to protect wooden or vinyl floors.
The bottom of the crate has a durable tray for comfort and cleanliness. A pan stop ensures that the tray stays in position and doesn’t slip out unexpectedly.
There are seven different sizes that cater for most dog sizes. The smallest in the range measures 18 x 12 x 14 inches, while the largest manages an impressive 48 x 30 x 33 inches. And, if you are feeling a little adventurous, you can stray from the standard black finish and indulge yourself with a powder blue or pink option.
Best premium dog crate
This durable dog crate is made to last and even comes with a lifetime guarantee. Unlike other models, it has a double wall (which means double protection), giving you peace of mind that your fur friend is safe on their travels. The small, medium, and intermediate sizes have a five-star crash test rating which is certified by the Center for Pet Safety.
The reversible door can be opened both ways, making it easier to get your pup in and out, and the crate is 12% cooler than the leading aluminum kennel. Whilst it might be a little more expensive, our tester Lindsey says it’s definitely worth the money and is “built to last”.
She adds: “This crate is very sturdy and made from durable materials. No assembly was needed, it was shipped in a box with plastic wrapping. My dog loved it, there is lots of room for her to turn around, and overall, I was very impressed with it. I think it will last a long time.”
Best travel dog crate
The wire metal frame dog crate is a popular choice with a lot of dog owners, especially for indoor use. They are easy to fold down and carry, but they are not as portable or stylish as a soft dog crate. If you need to take your pet pooch for a quick visit to the vet, ideally you want a dog crate that is quick, easy, and lightweight to deal with.
That's where this fashionable, functional, and most of all affordable, crate from Amazon is a real lifesaver. Almost identical to many other soft-sided crates that are double the price, this one may carry a low price tag but it's still made of high-quality durable polyester and PVC material that will go the distance.
The crate has three doors with one door positioned on top of the crate and the other two to the side and the front. This means the crate is well ventilated when your dog is inside. There are also two accessory pockets on the top and side which will easily hold small items such as a lead, treats and poop bags.
As an added bonus the crate comes with a fleece bed included – which is washable – as well as hand carry straps and an adjustable padded shoulder strap, so it's ideal for transporting your pet pooch quickly and easily. Available in four colors and a range of sizes, this lightweight crate has something for everyone.
Best durable dog crate
Looking for the best dog crate for containing even the most advanced canine escapologists? The Lucky Duck Kennel may be exactly what you need. It's a seriously rugged and durable dog crate that's made in the USA, and while at 38 lbs it's light enough for any member of the family to move using its heavy-duty handles, it's more than solid enough to keep pooch in place, wherever you go.
This crate features a one-piece roto molded body, with an injection molded door with a quick flip design that enables it to be reversed in seconds. There's a locking paddle latch that'll keep your dog secure, and which can be opened and closed single-handed, and for additional safety there are corner locking pins to create a four-point connection. Non-slip rubber feet will keep the crate in place while you're on the move, and this crate also benefits from a five star crash test rating from the Center for Pet Safety.
To help keep your dog comfortable when locked up, the Lucky Duck Kennel has well-placed ventilation holes, as well as an elevated pitched floor with drain channels and drain holes for an easy clean-up in the event of accidents. This intermediate crate is suitable for medium-sized dogs; Lucky Duck also makes a large version for bigger dogs.
Best dog crate starter kit
If you’ve just got your first dog or have never ventured into the world of dog crates before, the idea of a starter kit sounds very tempting. So what does this dog crate starter kit include? As you might expect there is a dog crate, but you also get a fleece bed, a dog crate cover, plus a food and water bowl – and all neatly packed into a single box for easy delivery.
The crate is a standard epoxy-coated metal wire frame that comes with two doors, one on the end and one on the side for easy access to the cage. The doors are secured shut with two slide-bolt latches on larger models and one on smaller models. There is a strong plastic tray in the bottom of the crate for your furry friend to lie on – the perfect place to put the accompanying fitted, machine-washable, dryer-friendly fleece bed. The two bowls snap into place wherever you want on the crate frame. These can be snapped off for cleaning and refilling. Finally there is the crate cover, which fits snugly over the cage to give your pet pooch a bit of privacy and help keep them calm. The front of the cover neatly rolls up to give access to the cage.
Don’t worry if you have a small, medium, or large dog, as the starter kit comes in six different sizes, ranging from XS to XL. The smallest is 22 x 13 x 16 inches while the largest option comes in at 48 x 30 x 33 inches. Measure up and get the kit you need.
Best large dog crate
If your canine is on the large side, MidWest Homes for Pets is a great brand to explore. Their crates come in multiple sizes, including an extra-large 49 x 30.5 x 34.25 inches in their Ultima Pro range.
The tough heavy-duty crate is made from metal and features two doors, front and side, for easy access. It's ideal for strong dogs with a weight between between 91 to 110 lbs, providing plenty of space for canines to stretch out.
Although the crate is highly durable, what's particularly notable about the Ultima Pro dog crate is that it's collapsible so if your pooch just can't be without their crate, you can take it with you wherever you go.
MidWest have also paid extra care to creating a dog crate that's so easy to clean. It comes with a removable plastic pan that doesn't rust when it comes in to contact with water and is generally constructed as a high quality dog crate you can put your faith in.
One drawback of the product, however, lies in the door hinges and locks. Some clever canines have managed a great escape out of the crate.
Best furniture-style dog crate
This elegant and dual-purpose piece serves as both a stylish end table and a dog crate and is made from a mixture of pressed wood and metal. Measuring 36.2 x 26.5 x 31.5 inches it's the perfect size to fit into your living space and can accommodate dogs up to 40lbs.
The double door design makes it easy to get your dog in and out and makes it a breeze to keep the inside of the crate clean. It comes with a comfortable cushion that's fully machine washable and the bars of the crate allow for plenty of ventilation and visibility, meaning your pup can still stay in on all the action.
It's worth noting that the wood isn't chew-proof, so if you have an aggressive chewer on your hands, this isn't the crate for you. It's also one of the more expensive models on the market, but if you're after a crate that is both functional and fashionable and will blend seamlessly into your decor, then this one is definitely worth considering.
Best wooden dog crate
If you're looking for a furniture-style dog crate and your interior is more rustic in style than modern, then the FEANDREA Wooden Dog Crate offers an attractive option for both dog and owner.
It's available in two spacious sizes, with room in the bigger size for a larger dog, without taking up a lot of room in the house. It does this by acting as a stylish table, as well as a dog crate. You can add your favorite items such as a lamp or ornaments to the top of the crate with peace of mind that it's strong and durable enough to hold everything in place. Added bonus if the rest of your furniture happens to match its wooden style.
When it comes to assembling the crate, the good news is it comes with tools to help you set-up and you can choose which end the smaller of the double doors will open from which is a nice touch.
Less favorable to pet owners may be the grate bottom which can be more difficult to remove than you might expect, but as the crate comes with a plastic tray, some users have adjusted it to better suit their needs.
Best collapsible dog crate
Some pets require travel crates that are a bit more heavy-duty. Generally, these will be ones that are quite bulky and heavy-duty, but happily, we've found one that doesn't take up a huge amount of space.
Available in small and medium sizes, its aluminium and steel wire frame makes it stronger than most crates, as well as meaning that it will last longer than its competitors. While it doesn't come with a bed, there are related products that it recommends. Alternatively, you can load it with your own snooze station!
While some have reported collapsible crates to do just that at moments when you'd rather they didn't, this has been tested to up to 180lb at its weakest point in the centre, meaning that it's far less likely to do so.
However, for such reliability you can expect to pay a premium. It's currently retailing at $375 on Amazon, with shipping adding another large fee. Moreover, durable materials tend to be heavier than others, so bear this in mind should you be on carrying duty.
Still, there's no denying its reliability, so should you be willing to pay the price, you can't go far wrong with this.
Best dog crate for home aesthetics
Admittedly, dog crates are seldom the best-looking items in a home and having one sitting in the corner of the room may not always fit in with your décor. With this offering, however, you not only get a spacious dog crate that comes in a range of sizes to suit all dogs, large and small, but a piece of furniture that doubles as an end table. Stick it by your sofa, pop a couple of coasters on the top and maybe a lamp and, pretty soon, you wouldn't even know you had a crate in your home!
It certainly looks great. Created out of a non-toxic plastic-wood polymer composite material, it has a single door at the front and “windows” at the side, ensuring great visibility while allowing air to flow. You can also grab this crate in one of three different colors – Russet, Antique White and Espresso – each one giving off a classy appearance. This means you're sure to find one to suit.
We also like that it can be assembled without the use of tools in about 10 minutes and that it's easy to wipe clean, free of allergens and unable to absorb moisture ensuring it's hard to stain. In using stainless steel spindles, it offers safety while providing sufficient gaps for your pooch to peer out. Just be aware that some owners say it's not a good option for dogs which tend to chew a lot (although it has a 10-year warranty) and that determined dogs can easily break out and damage the structure. You may find it's better for dogs who are calm and well-trained.
How to choose the best dog crate
Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, from tiny chihuahuas through to huge huskies. So it stands to reason that dog crates will come in different sizes. Make sure that you choose the right size, so that your pet pooch can fit comfortably in your chosen dog crate.
We recommend using a measuring tape to work out the length of your dog from its nose to the tip of its tail and then add on an extra four inches. You’ll then want to repeat this process when they’re sitting down to get their height, once again adding on four inches.
These measurements will give you the minimum size crate that you’ll need, but it’s not just size that matters – there are other questions that need to be answered. Is the crate going to be kept in the home? Do you need a dog crate to transport your dog to the vet/take on vacation? Will it fit in the car? How easy is it to assemble/fold down? How much does it weigh? Does it have carry handles? Is it easy to clean? Is your dog an aggressive chewer? Does the crate include any extras, such a blanket or bed?
These are simple questions, but are all questions that you need to consider. Answering these will help you to create a picture of the dog crate you need and want for your pet pooch, which in turn will help you to make the right choice to keep you and your dog happy. For example, a wire crate is great for home use and if you’re going to be taking your dog in the car with you as it offers excellent visibility. However, if you and your fur friend do a lot of flying, you may prefer to opt for a plastic or soft-sided crate that complies with airline regulations.
Is it cruel to crate a dog during the day?
“While it isn’t cruel to crate a dog for periods of time, it isn’t fair to leave them crated all day,” says Woodnutt. “A crate should be viewed like your dog’s bedroom – a safe space for them to sleep in peace. But if they’re locked in their bedroom all day, it starts to become scary. Just as you wouldn’t want to be shut in a small box for a whole day, neither will your dog – they need to be able to stretch and move about, visit the toilet, have an opportunity to drink water, and they also need mental stimulation to prevent boredom. You shouldn’t crate your dog for more than a couple of hours at a time, which may mean asking a dog walker to let your dog out for a short walk and toilet opportunity once or twice a day while you are at work.”
How long should a dog be in a crate for?
“Unless your dog is crated as part of a treatment plan or post-surgical recovery plan, you shouldn’t leave them in their crate for more than a couple of hours at a time,” advises Woodnutt. “Four hours is considered the absolute maximum a dog should be left alone for – aim for two to three hours at a maximum to avoid making them miserable.”
Steve Jenkins is a freelance content creator and long-time journalist with more than 20 years in the industry. He has written for numerous titles covering tech to pets, with his latest faithful hound always by his side. When not walking his dog, or discussing who’s best - cats or dogs? Loud guitars, AFC Bournemouth, Photoshop, and trying to save the world take up the rest of this time.
Dr Joanna Woodnutt is an experienced vet who qualified at the University of Nottingham and practiced companion animal medicine in the Midlands, UK. She enjoys the consulting side of things, and helping clients with medical problems and understanding their pets better.
