Does your furry friend need a safe, cozy spot to call their own? Choosing the perfect dog crate can feel like a big puzzle. You want something strong, easy to clean, and comfortable for your dog. But staring at all those plastic crates in the store can make your head spin! Many pet owners worry about getting a crate that’s too flimsy or hard to move.
Picking the wrong crate causes headaches later. You might end up with something your dog chews through, or one that traps heat. This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down what makes a plastic crate great for your dog’s safety and your peace of mind.
By the end of this post, you will know exactly what features to look for. We will help you find a durable, well-ventilated plastic crate that fits your dog perfectly. Ready to build your pup the best den? Let’s dive into the details of choosing the ultimate plastic dog crate.
Top Plastic Dog Crate Recommendations
No. 1
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel - Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 36 Inches, Taupe and Black
- SECURE AND SAFE: Protect your pet with this plastic dog crate featuring a an easy-open, sturdy wire door and tamper-proof holes for zip ties, so the kennel stays secure—a requirement for air travel
- AIRLINE-FRIENDLY: This pet carrier for dogs meets most airline cargo specifications, offering four-sided ventilation for your pet's comfort and visibility during air travel
- FOR LARGE DOGS: Designed for dogs weighing 50-70 lbs, this dog travel crate should have enough room for your pet to walk around and lie down with interior dimentions of 32.5" L x 22.2" W x 26" H
- EASY CLEANING: The portable dog crate's sturdy plastic shell is easy to wipe down quickly, while the stay-dry moat directs fluids away from your pet, making it great for housebreaking puppies or keeping pets dry during travel
- COMMITTED TO PET WELL-BEING: For over 60 years, Petmate has created high-quality products like pet crates for dogs that improve the lives of pets and their owners
No. 2
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel - Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Medium Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 28 Inches, Taupe and Black
- SECURE AND SAFE: Protect your pet with this plastic dog crate featuring a an easy-open, sturdy wire door and tamper-proof holes for zip ties, so the kennel stays secure—a requirement for air travel
- AIRLINE-FRIENDLY: This pet carrier for dogs meets most airline cargo specifications, offering four-sided ventilation for your pet's comfort and visibility during air travel
- FOR MEDIUM DOGS: Designed for dogs weighing 20-30 lbs, this dog travel crate should have enough room for your pet to walk around and lie down with interior dimensions of 24.2" L x 18.2" W x 19.5" H
- EASY CLEANING: The portable dog crate's sturdy plastic shell is easy to wipe down quickly, while the stay-dry moat directs fluids away from your pet, making it great for housebreaking puppies or keeping pets dry during travel
- COMMITTED TO PET WELL-BEING: For over 60 years, Petmate has created high-quality products like pet crates for dogs that improve the lives of pets and their owners
No. 3
Collapsible Dog Crate for Large/Medium Dogs - 36" L Foldable Dog Cage No-Tool Assembly, Travel Dog Crate with 2 Wheels - Easy to Carry, Space-Saving, Indoor Outdoor Use, 36.4"(L) x22.84(W) 25.8"(H)
- Easy to Assemble: The one-piece folding dog box furniture eliminates the need for complex assembly. You can create a comfortable haven for your pet set up and fold down the crate in seconds with no tools required. Enjoy a wonderful life with your furry good friend!
- Space-Saving & Easy Mobility: This collapsible dog crate features a innovative foldable design, allowing it to be stored flat when not in use. Equipped with two smooth-rolling wheels and sturdy handles on both sides, this pet crate offers effortless mobility. Move your dog cage around the house or during travel with minimal effort
- Safe & Reliable: Gardner Pet pet kennel Features squeeze-latch locks on the door for quick and secure closure. allowing your furry friends to stay safely inside while also being friendly to the fingers of pet guardians. These locks are easy for owners to operate but prevent clever dogs from opening them.Our curved corners help prevent squeezing and the sinking of the chin and claws, and the rounded corners eliminate sharp edges
- Long-lasting Dog House: Composed of high-quality PE and strong metal wire, the indoor dog house is both functional and aesthetically pleasing for modern homes, providing your pet with a long-lasting, stable and safe resting place
- Multi-functional Dog Cage furniture: Modern style, suitable for any home decoration, whether as a cozy indoor dog house, a travel crate for road trips, or a temporary containment space outdoors
No. 4
Collapsible Dog Crate for Medium/Small Dogs - 28" L Foldable Dog Cage No-Tool Assembly, Travel Dog Crate with 2 Wheels - Easy to Carry, Space-Saving, Indoor Outdoor Use, 27.96"(L) X18.3(W) X20.87(H)
- Easy to Assemble: The one-piece folding dog box furniture eliminates the need for complex assembly. You can create a comfortable haven for your pet set up and fold down the crate in seconds with no tools required. Enjoy a wonderful life with your furry good friend!
- Space-Saving & Easy Mobility: This collapsible dog crate features a innovative foldable design, allowing it to be stored flat when not in use. Equipped with two smooth-rolling wheels and sturdy handles on both sides, this pet crate offers effortless mobility. Move your dog cage around the house or during travel with minimal effort
- Safe & Reliable: Gardner Pet pet kennel Features squeeze-latch locks on the door for quick and secure closure. allowing your furry friends to stay safely inside while also being friendly to the fingers of pet guardians. These locks are easy for owners to operate but prevent clever dogs from opening them.Our curved corners help prevent squeezing and the sinking of the chin and claws, and the rounded corners eliminate sharp edges
- Long-lasting Dog House: Composed of high-quality PE and strong metal wire, the indoor dog house is both functional and aesthetically pleasing for modern homes, providing your pet with a long-lasting, stable and safe resting place
- Multi-functional Dog Cage furniture: Modern style, suitable for any home decoration, whether as a cozy indoor dog house, a travel crate for road trips, or a temporary containment space outdoors
No. 5
Petmate Large Breeds Dog Kennel, Various Sizes, Dark Gray/Black, Made in USA
- Large Pet Crate: This dog kennel for large dogs has an easy-open latch for opening the dog travel carrier with one hand
- Up To 90 lbs: Suitable for pets up to – 90 lbs | Product dimensions – 40" L x 27" W x 30" H | Product weight – 24 lbs
- Air Travel: This pet carrier meets most airline cargo specifications | The Air Travel kennel for dogs cats also has ventilation on 3 sides
- Aspen Pet: Aspen Pet provides every day essentials for pet parents, dogs cats Check out Aspen Pets for leash cable tie-outs, litter box accessories, pet toys, gravity water/food bowls, pet beds, dog houses, carriers more
- Just For Pets: Petmate makes a variety of pet products for dogs, cats, chickens other small furry friends Check out our brands such as Aspen Pet, Arm Hammer, Booda, Chuckit, Pet Qwerks more
No. 6
SportPet Airline Compliant LARGE 31.5" Travel Dog Kennel-Durable Plastic Airline Pet Carrier w/ Removable Wheels & Food Bowls, Collapsible Indoor/Outdoor Dog Kennel, Dogs up to 28"L & 20"H-Cream/Gray
- IATA AIRLINE COMPLIANT TRAVEL CRATE: Compliant with the standards specified in the 51st Edition of the IATA Live Animal Regulation for safe, secure air travel—The Kennel features a durable hard-sided exterior plastic shell, steady airflow and visibility built-in, accident moat pulls spills away from your pet’s body, airline-required tie-down holes for added security, reinforced metal hardware, and a strong secure door latch to keep dogs and cats safely contained during air travel.
- EASY TRANSPORT FOR AIR TRAVEL: Designed for easy airport navigation, with smooth-rolling wheels for effortless airport transport and a built-in top carry handle for quick lifting through terminals, security checkpoints, loading areas, and in & out of the car—making it a convenient dog travel kennel and airline pet carrier for stress-free pet travel.
- TRAVEL READY ACCESSORIES: Includes 2 sturdy food/water dishes, 4 “Live Animal” labels to alert handlers, and metal bolts and nuts for assembly, making this kennel ideal for safe pet transport or comfortable use at home, hotels, or vacation stays.
- COLLAPSIBLE & EASY TO CLEAN: Conveniently separate the kennel into two pieces for compact storage when not in use. Cleanup is simple—wipe down with mild soap and water, or hose out for a thorough clean, keeping your pet’s travel crate fresh and hygienic.
- FITS LARGE DOGS: Designed for pets up to 28”L x 20”H; interior crate dimensions measure 28.75”L x 19.75”W x 21.5”H—ideal for large breeds like a Border Collie to stand, turn, and rest comfortably while traveling.
No. 7
ZOMISIA Collapsible Dog Crate for Large Dogs - 36" L Heavy Duty Dog Kennel No Tools Required with 4 Sides Steel Foldable Cage for Dogs Indoor Furniture, Portable Carrier with 2 Smooth Wheels, Beige
- Multi-Scenario Use & Pet Adaptability: Designed for versatile use - whether as a cozy indoor dog house, a crate for road trips, or a temporary containment space outdoors. We offer two mainstream sizes for different dog breeds and weights: the 28-inch dog crate is suitable for dogs weighing no more than 40 pounds; the 36-inch dog crate fits large docile dogs with a weight limit of 80 pounds. Note: This crate is not recommended for highly biting and hyperactive dog breeds to avoid damage to the crate caused by violent scratching and biting.
- Space-Saving Foldable Design: This collapsible dog crate features a innovative foldable design, allowing it to be stored flat when not in use. Perfect for small apartments or homes with limited space, it ensures easy storage without sacrificing functionality.
- Easy Mobility with Wheels & Handles: Equipped with two smooth-rolling wheels and sturdy handles on both sides, this pet crate offers effortless mobility. Ideal for repositioning in your living room, patio, or vehicle.
- Durable & Escape-Proof Construction: Made from reinforced hard plastic and strong metal wire, this heavy-duty dog crate ensures maximum security. The robust design prevents escapes and provides a safe, den-like environment for your dog. It’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing for modern homes.
- Secure & User-Friendly Lock Mechanism: Features squeeze-latch locks on the door for quick and secure closure. These locks are easy for owners to operate but prevent clever dogs from opening them. Set up and fold down the crate in seconds with no tools required.
No. 8
Petmate Pet Porter Fashion Dog Kennel Plastic Crate for Pets 15-20 lbs, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, Made in USA, 24" L x 14.5" H, Pale Aqua and Black
- FASHION MEETS FUNCTION: Protect your pet and home with the Pet Porter Fashion Dog Kennel. The easy-open latch secures the sturdy wire door, while the fold-down handle makes carrying a breeze, combining convenience with safety.
- TRAVEL-FRIENDLY: Travel with peace of mind with our Pet Porter that features ventilation on 4 sides for fresh air and visibility, helping your pet stay comfortable. Plus, the built-in storage keeps essentials like identification or treats close for added peace of mind, comfort and safety
- TRAVEL CRATE FOR SMALL DOGS: With interior dimensions of 21.5" L x 15" W x 13.5" H, our carrier is ideal for breeds weighing 15-20 lbs. No tools required for assembly. Pets should have just enough room to walk inside the dog kennel, turn around, and lie comfortably.
- EASY TO KEEP CLEAN: Designed with a sturdy plastic shell, this puppy carrier is easy to wipe down quickly. The interior stay-dry moat directs fluids away from your pet in case of accidents, making it ideal for housebreaking puppies or keeping pets dry during travel
- How to Choose The Right Size: “Measure snot to rear for Length, From floor to top of head for Height, Add 3 to 4 inches to both the numbers, choose the closest size without going too small (do not exceed the weight limit); your dog/pet should be able to turn around with ease and lay down comfortably inside the kennel. For more information, kindly watch the video listed!” PETMATE: The well-being of pets is at the heart of everything we do. For over 60 years, we've been dedicated to creating reliable, high-quality products that improve the lives of pets and their owners, knowing that pets are every bit as much a part of the family.
Your Essential Guide to Buying the Perfect Plastic Dog Crate
Choosing the right plastic dog crate is important for your pet’s safety and comfort. These crates are popular because they are easy to clean and durable. This guide helps you pick the best one for your furry friend.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, keep these important features in mind. They make a big difference in how well the crate works for you and your dog.
Ventilation and Airflow
- Look for crates with plenty of holes or mesh sides. Good airflow keeps your dog cool and happy inside.
- Avoid crates with very small openings, especially in hot weather.
Door Security
- The latch must be strong. You do not want your clever dog opening the door by accident.
- Check if the door swings open easily for you but stays shut tightly for your dog. Double-locking mechanisms are often best.
Portability and Assembly
- Some plastic crates break down into two pieces for easy storage or travel. See if this feature matters for your lifestyle.
- Simple assembly means less frustration when you first set it up.
Important Materials and Construction
Plastic crates are mostly made from durable, hard plastic. The quality of this plastic impacts how long the crate lasts.
High-Quality Plastic
- Thicker, rigid plastic resists cracking if it gets bumped or dropped. This is better for rough use.
- Check reviews to see if the plastic fades or becomes brittle in the sun if you plan to use it outdoors sometimes.
Metal Components
- Doors and latches should be made of strong metal, usually coated steel. Rust-resistant metal lasts much longer.
- Sharp edges on metal parts should be avoided; smooth edges protect your dog.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The overall design greatly affects the crate’s quality. Small details can make a big difference in the long run.
Durability vs. Weight
- Sturdier crates use more plastic, making them heavier to move. You must balance strength with how often you travel.
- Look for reinforced corners. These areas often take the most stress.
Ease of Cleaning
- A smooth interior surface is easier to wipe down. Deep grooves can trap dirt and odors.
- Crates that separate easily into top and bottom halves make deep cleaning much simpler.
Fit and Size
- The crate must be the right size for your dog. They need to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
- A crate that is too large can encourage accidents inside, as the dog might use one corner as a bathroom.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about why you need the crate. This helps narrow down the best type of plastic crate for your needs.
Training and Housebreaking
- Plastic crates are excellent for house training because they are den-like and easy to sanitize after mistakes happen.
- Many trainers prefer plastic for puppies because it feels more secure than wire cages.
Travel and Transport
- If you fly often, check if the crate meets airline standards. These usually require specific hardware and ventilation.
- For car trips, a solid plastic shell offers better protection from shifting objects than wire crates.
Everyday Containment
- For dogs who stay in their crate while you are at work, comfort features like space for a bed or water dish attachment points are helpful.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Plastic Dog Crates
Q: Are plastic crates safe for strong chewers?
A: Yes, many heavy-duty plastic crates are safer than wire crates for determined chewers because there are fewer small parts they can ingest. However, always inspect for plastic pieces coming loose.
Q: How do I choose the correct size?
A: Measure your dog from nose to tail base, and measure their height while standing. The crate should be a few inches longer and taller than these measurements.
Q: Can I attach water bottles or toys easily?
A: Some plastic crates have molded slots or holes designed for attaching accessories. Check the product description before buying if this is important to you.
Q: Are plastic crates good for outdoor use?
A: They handle weather better than some metal crates, but constant sun exposure can make the plastic brittle over time. Shade is recommended.
Q: How difficult is assembly?
A: Most plastic crates snap together using bolts or heavy-duty clips. They are generally easier to assemble than complex wire crates, often taking less than 15 minutes.
Q: What is the main benefit over wire crates?
A: Plastic crates offer better insulation from drafts, feel more secure (den-like), and are much easier to clean thoroughly.
Q: Do plastic crates get too hot inside?
A: If the ventilation holes are small or insufficient, yes, they can get hot. Always ensure there is ample airflow, especially in warm climates.
Q: Should I buy a crate with a floor tray?
A: Yes. Most good plastic crates come with a removable plastic tray underneath the main floor for easy cleanup of accidents.
Q: Are plastic crates suitable for puppies?
A: They are excellent for house training due to their solid walls, which help limit the puppy’s view, encouraging them to keep the space clean.
Q: How do I clean a plastic crate effectively?
A: Use warm water, mild soap, and a mild bleach solution if needed. Rinse well and let it dry completely before putting your dog back inside.