Does the thought of buying a dog crate fill you with a mix of excitement and total confusion? You want a safe, comfy space for your furry friend, but the sheer number of sizes, materials, and styles can feel overwhelming. Choosing the wrong crate can lead to stress for both you and your dog, making training harder and travel uncomfortable.
Finding the perfect dog cage is more than just picking the cheapest one; it involves safety, durability, and ensuring your pet feels secure. Many owners struggle with knowing what size is truly appropriate or which features matter most for house-training versus travel.
Don’t worry! This guide cuts through the noise. We will break down everything you need to know about dog cages, from selecting the ideal dimensions to spotting essential safety features. By the end of this post, you will have the confidence to choose a durable and comfortable haven for your best friend.
Top Dog Cage Recommendations
- Newly enhanced with added security features to keep your pet safe | Slide-bolt door latches now feature patented Paw Block and locking tips to create a safer, more secure home for your pet
- iCrate single door dog crate measures 36.6 x 21.9 x 24.5 inches and is suitable for intermediate dog breeds with an adult weight of 40 to 70 pounds. If your dog’s weight or measurements are on the higher side for this crate, we recommend buying the next crate size up
- Dog crate includes a divider panel, durable & leak-proof plastic pan, protective rubber feet, carrying handle, and customer support team based in Indiana
- Easy to assemble & portable | Dog crate sets up in seconds with no tools required and conveniently folds flat for travel
- Durable & strong, quality construction creates a secure place for your dog to fulfill their natural instinct to den. Proper ventilation, large door openings with low thresholds, and rounded corner clips make iCrate a safer crate experience for your dog
- 30-inch dog crate for pets under 26 x 17 inches (LxH), like a Beagle, Dachshund, Shih Tzu, or Chihuahua
- Durable metal wire construction with manual door locking mechanism for secure containment
- Sets up quickly and folds down flat for easy transport or compact storage; top handle for comfortable carrying
- 1 door and a divider for adjusting the internal space
- Removable plastic base tray for easy cleaning
- Newly enhanced with added security features to keep your pet safe | Slide-bolt door latches now feature patented Paw Block and locking tips to create a safer, more secure home for your pet
- iCrate single door dog crate measures 42L x 28W x 31H inches and is suitable for large dog breeds with an adult weight of 70-90 pounds. If your dog’s weight or measurements are on the higher side for this crate, we recommend buying the next crate size up
- Dog crate includes a divider panel, durable & leak-proof plastic pan, protective rubber feet, carrying handle, and customer support team based in Indiana
- Easy to assemble & portable | Dog crate sets up in seconds with no tools required and conveniently folds flat for travel
- Durable & strong, quality construction creates a secure place for your dog to fulfill their natural instinct to den. Proper ventilation, large door openings with low thresholds, and rounded corner clips make iCrate a safer crate experience for your dog
- 36-inch dog crate for pets under 32 x 21 inches (LxH), like a Corgi, Brittany, Cocker Spaniel, or French Bulldog
- Durable metal wire construction with manual door locking mechanism for secure containment. Sets up quickly and folds down flat for easy transport or compact storage; top handle for comfortable carrying. 1 door and a divider for adjusting the internal space
- Removable plastic base tray for easy cleaning. Metal hook at the bottom of the crate to prevent plastic tray from moving out. Please lock the hook well after installing the tray every time in daily use.
- Product Dimensions: 36 x 23 x 25 inches (LxWxH)
- Please read all safety instructions prior to use. Note: Your dog should be able to stand up and turn around comfortably while in the crate. Measure from nose to base of tail when standing, and from top of head to floor. Add 4 inches to those measurements to confirm optimal crate height and length.
- Newly enhanced with added security features to keep your pet safe | Slide-bolt door latch now feature patented Paw Block and locking tips to create a safer, more secure home for your pet
- iCrate single door dog crate measures 30L x 19 x 21 inches and is suitable for medium dog breeds with an adult weight of 25 to 40 pounds. If your dog’s weight or measurements are on the higher side for this crate, we recommend buying the next crate size up
- Dog crate includes a divider panel, durable & leak-proof plastic pan, protective rubber feet, carrying handle, and customer support team based in Indiana
- Easy to assemble & portable | Dog crate sets up in seconds with no tools required and conveniently folds flat for travel
- Durable & strong, quality construction creates a secure place for your dog to fulfill their natural instinct to den. Proper ventilation, large door openings with low thresholds, and rounded corner clips make iCrate a safer crate experience for your dog
- 【Durable Construction】Our dog crate is made of sturdy, rust-resistant metal wire, making it durable and able to handle energetic puppies. Its durable design makes it resistant to deterioration, giving it a dependable option for extended usage.Dog cage dog crate dog kennel
- 【Leak-Proof Plastic Tray】This dog crate features a detachable, leak-proof plastic tray that runs the length of the crate, making cleanup simple in the event of an accident. For dog dishes that won't slip, look for a textured surface.Dog cage dog crate dog kennel
- 【Double Door Convenience】There are two ways to enter our dog crate: the front entrance and the side door. Numerous ways to enter and exit this dog kennel are available. When putting the crate in confined areas where a front door can be blocked or for anxious dogs who might prefer a side entry, this is really useful.Dog cage dog crate dog kennel
- 【Easy To Set Up】Any dog lover should own one of these crates. You don't want to be spending a lot of time while on vacation, therefore it's crucial that our puppy playpen is easy to put together and take down. Metal dog cage canine kennel with handle for dogs.Dog cage dog crate dog kennel
- 【After-Sale Service】Please feel free to contact our customer service if you have any questions or have any issues with the dog crate while using it. We guarantee that you will receive the finest solution and the most expert technical assistance. Dog cage dog crate dog kennel
- SAFE & SECURE DOG CAGE: This durable dog cage features reinforced steel pipes, rounded corners, and dual latches on both front & side doors, to keep your pet secure during dog training or quiet time.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION FOR EVERYDAY USE: Made with rust-resistant wire and reinforced edges, this dog cage offers long-term durability while remaining lightweight enough to carry on the move
- DUAL-DOOR DESIGN FOR EASY ACCESS: Front and side doors with secure dual latches make it easy to load, unload, and interact with your pet while ensuring safety inside the dog kennel.
- TRAVEL-READY & COLLAPSIBLE: Whether used as dog crate furniture at home or as a pet carrier for travel, the collapsible dog crate transitions easily for indoor use, camping trips, or vet visits
- LEAKPROOF & EASY TO CLEAN: Equipped with a durable, removable ABS tray that contains messes, resists stains and odors, and makes cleaning your indoor dog kennel quick and stress-free.
- 24-inch dog crate for pets under 20 x 15.25 inches (LxH), like a Havanese or Pug
- Durable metal wire construction with manual door locking mechanism for secure containment
- Sets up quickly and folds down flat for easy transport or compact storage; top handle for comfortable carrying
- 1 door and a divider for adjusting the internal space
- Removable plastic base tray for easy cleaning
The Ultimate Dog Cage Buying Guide
Choosing the right dog cage, or crate, is important. A good cage offers your dog a safe, cozy den. It helps with training and keeps your home tidy. This guide helps you pick the best one.
Key Features to Look For
Several features make a dog cage great. Think about what you need for your dog and your home.
Size Matters Most
- Proper Fit: The cage must let your dog stand up, turn around easily, and lie down comfortably. Too small is cruel; too big makes house training harder.
- Divider Panels: If you buy a large crate for a puppy, look for a panel. This lets you adjust the space as your puppy grows.
Door Style and Security
- Door Placement: Some cages have doors on the front and side. This offers flexibility for where you place the crate.
- Secure Latches: Latches must be strong. Your dog should not easily push or chew the door open. Double-locking mechanisms are best for escape artists.
Portability and Assembly
- Folding Design: Many modern crates fold flat. This makes moving them or storing them simple when not in use.
- Ease of Setup: Check reviews to see how easy the cage is to assemble. Some snap together quickly; others require many tools.
Important Materials for Durability
The material affects how long the cage lasts and how safe it is.
Metal Crates
- Wire Construction: Heavy-duty metal wire is the most common choice. It allows great airflow and visibility. Look for powder-coated finishes to prevent rust.
- Durability Factor: Thicker gauge wire means higher quality. Thin wire bends easily.
Plastic Crates (Travel Kennels)
- Sturdy Plastic: These are great for travel or outdoor use. They offer more protection from the elements. Ensure the plastic is thick and crack-resistant.
- Ventilation: Make sure there are plenty of air holes.
Soft-Sided Crates
- Fabric Choices: These use mesh and heavy fabric. They are light and comfortable for short trips or indoor use. They are not suitable for heavy chewers.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality is not just about the price tag. It depends on design details.
Quality Boosters
- Removable Trays: A slide-out plastic or metal tray makes cleaning up accidents much easier. This is a huge quality-of-life improvement.
- Smooth Edges: Run your hand over the bars. Sharp edges can hurt your dog. High-quality crates smooth these down.
Quality Reducers
- Thin Plastic Connectors: If the plastic pieces holding the frame together feel flimsy, the cage might break under stress.
- Flimsy Bottoms: If the floor panel bends when you press it, it will not hold up long.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use the cage changes what you should buy.
House Training
For house training, wire crates with dividers are excellent. Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area. The visibility helps you monitor your puppy.
Travel
If you fly or take long car rides, look for airline-approved plastic kennels. These secure tightly and protect your dog from bumps.
Containment and Safety
If your dog has separation anxiety or chews furniture, a heavy-duty, secure metal crate works best. This keeps your dog safe when you cannot supervise them.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Dog Cages
Q: What is the right size cage for my dog?
A: Measure your dog from nose to tail base and from the floor to the top of their head. The cage should be a few inches longer and taller than these measurements.
Q: Should I use a soft-sided or a wire crate?
A: Use a wire crate for durability and training. Use a soft-sided crate for travel or when maximum comfort is needed for a calm dog.
Q: How do I make the cage comfortable?
A: Place a comfortable, washable mat or a crate-sized bed inside. Never use bedding your dog might ingest or shred.
Q: Are cages bad for dogs?
A: No. When introduced correctly, cages become a safe den. They are not for punishment; they are for security.
Q: What if my puppy chews the plastic tray?
A: If chewing happens, replace the plastic tray with a metal one, or cover the tray with a thick, rubber mat that cannot be easily broken into pieces.
Q: Do I need a crate cover?
A: A cover helps mimic a den, which can calm anxious dogs. Ensure the cover does not block too much airflow.
Q: How often should I clean the cage?
A: You should clean the floor tray daily. Deep clean the entire crate weekly, especially if accidents happen.
Q: Are all folding crates easy to store?
A: Most modern wire crates fold flat easily. Always check the assembly instructions before buying if storage space is limited.
Q: Should I buy a crate big enough for my adult dog now?
A: Yes, if you buy a divider panel. Buying the adult size saves money and introduces the dog to their long-term den space right away.
Q: What is “gauge” when talking about wire crates?
A: Gauge measures the thickness of the wire. A lower gauge number means the wire is thicker, stronger, and higher quality.