The best crates for dogs.
Crates for dogs come in a wide variety, and choosing the right one for your four-legged friend can be a challenge, especially if it’s your first time making the purchase. If your dog loves spending time in the yard, an outdoor crate for dogs will provide shade in the summer and shelter in the winter.
If you’re considering an indoor crate for dogs, the requirements might differ slightly. An indoor crate for dogs doesn’t provide shelter, but it does offer a secure and appealing bed or a “relaxation” spot for your dog.
If you want to learn more about crates for dogs and how to choose the right one, keep reading below.
If you’ve already decided to get a crate for your dog, below you’ll find some of the best crates for dogs available in the market.
The 5 best outdoor crates for dogs.
Every dog that spends a lot of time outdoors needs an outdoor crate for dogs.
Crates for dogs provide shelter against the elements and temperature variations. Beyond giving your pet a place where they can feel secure.
But not all dog houses are equally effective. Some will help keep your dog comfortable and cozy, while others will do little to assist.
Next, we will try to help you choose the best crate for your dog, based on an analysis of those offered on Amazon.
Enhanced Single & Double Door Outdoor Dog Crate
Description
Newly enhanced with added security features to ensure your pet’s safety. The slide-bolt door latches now incorporate the patented Paw Block and locking tips, resulting in a more secure and protective environment for your beloved companion.
The iCrate, featuring a single door, boasts dimensions of 36.6 x 21.9 x 24.5 inches. This size is ideal for intermediate dog breeds with an adult weight ranging from 40 to 70 pounds. Should your dog’s measurements or weight exceed this crate’s limits, we advise considering the next size up for your purchase.
Included with the dog crate are a divider panel, a durable and leak-proof plastic pan, protective rubber feet, a convenient carrying handle, and a responsive customer support team situated in Indiana.
Designed for effortless assembly and portability, the dog crate can be set up in mere seconds without the need for any tools. Furthermore, it conveniently folds flat, allowing for easy transport during travel.
Built with durability and strength in mind, the crate offers quality construction to provide your dog with a secure space to satisfy their inherent denning instinct. The crate ensures proper ventilation and features large door openings with low thresholds, all designed with safety in mind. Rounded corner clips further enhance the safety of the iCrate, creating a secure and comfortable space for your dog.
IMPORTANT: It’s important to note that MidWest Homes for Pets is the manufacturer of the iCrate and Life Stages dog crates. Assembly and safety instructions are included with each purchase. We strongly recommend reviewing all safety instructions before using the crate.
Metal Dog Pen Outdoor 40 inch Height
Description
These dogs playpen provides a spacious and secure environment, offering ample space for your pets. The sides of the dog playpen are tall enough to ensure safety, even to the extent that a small child cannot reach inside the enclosure. Find peace of mind in confining your pet within this enclosed space. Moreover, you have the option to connect multiple pet playpens together to extend coverage in a larger area.
The innovative design of this puppy playpen allows for versatile shape configurations to suit your needs, whether it’s a rectangle, square, or octagon. This adaptable dog playpen is perfect for any pet enthusiast. If you have questions about this pet playpen, please feel free to contact us.
A must-have for dog lovers, this dog playpen ensures quality and easy assembly. With clear assembly instructions, the pet playpen can be set up in minutes. Quick assembly and disassembly are essential so you can fully enjoy your time without unnecessary delays.
Constructed with sturdy and rust-resistant metal, this dog playpen is designed for extended durability and longevity. Its robustness makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Choosing this pet playpen ensures you’re making the best decision for your pet’s comfort and safety.
This playpen requires no tools for installation. Once you’re done, the pet playpen collapses quickly for convenient storage. The lightweight and collapsible design of this dog playpen makes it a practical choice for travel and camping adventures. Whether on a trip or at a campsite, this puppy playpen ensures your pet’s comfort and security at all times.
No Door Foldable Black Metal Dog Exercise Pen
Description
This recommended Exercise Pen or Pet Playpen consists of panels, each measuring 24 inches in width by 24 inches in height. When fully set up, the dog exercise pen spans 62 inches in length, 62 inches in width, and stands at 24 inches in height. And for your convenience, it easily folds flat when not in use, making storage a breeze.
This Exercise Pen offers a generous enclosed space of 16 square feet (around 1.5 square meters), providing ample room for your furry friend and other pets to move around and play.
Included in the package are 4 ground anchors, perfect for secure outdoor use. Additionally, 4 thumb-snaps are provided to make assembly a breeze. If you have a crate, you’ll find that it effortlessly attaches to create an extended play area.
When it comes to setting up, you’ll be pleased to know that it’s a straightforward process that requires no tools. And to ensure your peace of mind, the Exercise Pen comes with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty. Just a little note: it’s worth keeping in mind that this pen is not recommended for puppies or dogs with a tendency to jump.
The product is crafted by a small, family-owned business that takes immense pride in their industry legacy spanning over a century. With a dedicated team of over 150 employees situated in the USA, they are unwaveringly committed to delivering products of exceptional quality that endure the test of time.
Heavy Duty Metal Dog crate with four wheels
Description
Built from industrial-grade corrosion-resistant steel, this heavy-duty frame is virtually indestructible and exceptionally durable. The nontoxic finished surface ensures the well-being of your dog. Designed to accommodate most medium and large dogs, it features two locks with safety buckles to thwart even the most high-anxiety dogs from opening the door and attempting an escape.
Equipped with a double door and locking caster design, the front door facilitates easy pet access while promoting interaction between you and your furry friend. The 360-degree rotating locking casters grant you the ability to move the crate effortlessly and, when necessary, secure the wheels to maintain its position.
Cleaning becomes a breeze with the removable (slide-out) plastic tray, capturing fallen dog food and excrement. This feature facilitates convenient wiping and cleaning.
Assembly is hassle-free with all necessary hardware included in the package. Merely attach the four wheels and eight screw bolts; the locks are pre-assembled. In just 3-5 minutes, your assembly will be complete.
Overall dimensions stand at 41.5 inches in length, 30.5 inches in width, and 37 inches in height. The internal height of the dog cage is 32 inches. The metal pipe spacing is 2 inches, while the metal “slat-like” floor spacing is 1 inch. The crate comes in a sleek black color.
Portable Pet Play Pens for Small Dog
Description
Introducing a Portable Dog Playpen complete with a convenient carrying case, perfect for outdoor usage. It sets up within seconds and requires no assembly. When not in use, it folds flat for easy carrying and compact storage.
Designed with a spacious 8-panel layout, this dog indoor playpen provides ample room for your X-small dog to frolic within. The zippered top and bottom can be easily removed for cleaning, with washable 600D Oxford fabric and mesh panels making maintenance a breeze.
Safety is paramount for your feline friend within this cat portable playpen, thanks to protected seams and reinforced corners. Crafted from durable quality and water-resistant materials, it also suits baby dogs, cats, and rabbits.
For added convenience, two doors equipped with locking zippers offer flexibility: removed for indoor usage and closed for outdoor scenarios. Additionally, the playpen features two accessory pockets, along with a dedicated water bottle pocket and holder for your small dog.
Despite its lightweight design, this small pet playpen maintains strength, making it an ideal companion for traveling and camping.
The 5 best indoor crates for dogs.
There are literally hundreds of different designs of indoor crates for dogs available. With such a wide variety comes significant disparities in terms of quality, comfort, and design. It’s an important aspect to consider when making the decision about which one is most suitable for your dog.
To assist you in your purchasing decision, we have selected some of the best indoor crates for dogs. Our choices are based on the crates with the highest number of reviews and the highest ratings, in terms of favorable critiques and customer satisfaction. Keep reading to discover our top recommendations:
Exercise 4-Panel Pet Playpen with Door
Description
The IRIS USA exercise playpen for dogs is an exceptional choice for various applications such as dog play yards, play gates, small dog fences, and more. Crafted using multiple panels and offering the possibility to add more panels, you have the flexibility to customize a playpen that suits your exact requirements.
Constructed from robust, heavy-duty molded plastic, this playpen is designed to endure playtime activities both indoors and outdoors. The material is effortless to clean, and you can easily order additional panels to expand the playpen as your puppy or pet grows, granting them more space to explore.
Say goodbye to the hassle of lifting your pet every time you want to place them in or take them out of the playpen. The built-in door on the front panel eliminates this inconvenience, and it’s perfectly sized for your extra small to medium-sized pets, including puppies, cats, chihuahuas, dachshunds, pugs, and other beloved family pets.
Designed for user-friendly assembly, this pet playpen can be effortlessly put together by snapping the panels into place. The set includes three panels without doors and one panel with a door. Each panel is equipped with rubber feet to safeguard flooring and maintain the stability of the pet pen in its position.
Dog Crate Furniture with Cushion
Description
This pet furniture serves a multitude of functions: it can function as a pet crate and also be used as a side table, end table, or nightstand. The spacious top surface offers ample space for placing decorations such as small to medium-sized plants, magazines, family photo frames, night lamps, and more.
With a double door design, your pet can easily enter and exit. The adjustable feet ensure stability even on uneven floors, maintaining the table’s balance.
Crafted from particleboard and wire, this construction is chew-resistant, ensuring the safety and durability of the crate for your pet’s long-term use.
To enhance your pet’s comfort, the dog crate comes with a matching cushion, providing a warm and cozy place to rest. Additionally, a wooden plate is incorporated at the bottom to prevent any foot jamming for added safety.
When selecting the size, it’s crucial to measure your pet’s height and length beforehand. Consult the purchase advice to ensure you choose the appropriate crate size for your furry friend.
Heavy Duty indestructible and escape-proof crate for dogs
Description
Indestructible Heavy Duty Dog Crate The LMEBERI 48-inch dog crate is made of sturdy 20-gauge steel and reinforced with 0.5-inch-diameter steel tubes. It’s built tough, with strong joint welds and dual latches on the door. If you have an anxious dog, this is the perfect crate for you.
Safe And Convenient Design This large crate is constructed from steel with a non-toxic, anti-rust finish. It features a front door for easy access, and the top door can be opened for interaction and exercise with your dog. The two locks with safety buckles ensure your dog’s security, even when you’re not around.
Easy To Clean The floor grate comes with a slide-out tray underneath, making cleanup a breeze. The grate is designed to let dog food and excrement fall through, while also providing a stable platform for your dog. Both the grate and tray are removable for your convenience.
Easy To Assemble & Move With four lockable caster wheels, this crate is designed to prevent high-anxiety dogs from escaping or causing harm. Most parts are pre-assembled; just attach the wheels and screw bolts, and assembly takes less than 10 minutes.
Great Heavy Duty Dog Crate For The Money Designed for larger breeds like German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, and Labradors, this dog cage is a solid investment.
Portable Dog Crate for Pets
Description
Introducing the Sturdy Plastic Dog Crate: Safeguard your pet and your home with this small dog crate. It boasts an easy-open latch to secure the robust wire door and a durable fold-down handle for effortless transportation of this dog travel crate.
Designed for Pets Weighing 10-20 lbs: The exterior dimensions of the pet kennel are 24″ in length, 16.7″ in width, and 14.5″ in height. The interior dimensions are 21.5″ in length, 15″ in width, and 13.5″ in height. Weighing in at just 5 lbs, and with no tools required for assembly, it’s recommended to opt for a larger size if uncertain.
Airline Friendly Dog Carrier: This pet carrier meets most airline cargo specifications, and it offers ventilation on all four sides. Additionally, it includes built-in storage for extra pet identification.
Keeping it Clean is a Breeze: The sturdy plastic shell of this dog carrier is easy to clean. The interior features a stay-dry moat that effectively directs fluids away from your pet in the event of wet accidents, making it an excellent choice for a puppy carrier or a kennel trainer during housebreaking.
Stackable metal crate for 2 dogs
Description
Enhanced Feeding Convenience This crate features four feeding doors along with two feeding bowls, offering added convenience for feeding your pet. Plus, lockable wheels facilitate easy movement of the cage for your convenience.
Comprehensive Package Included in the package are: 1 divider for cage customization, 1 cage with screws and latches, 2 feeding bowls for meals, 2 trays for cleanliness, 4 casters for mobility, and 2 metal floor grids for stability.
Adjustable Cage Size The removable divider panel provides the flexibility to adjust the cage size. You can create two smaller spaces or merge it into a single larger cage, adapting to your pet’s needs.
Double Security Equipped with double door latches, this crate ensures double security for your pets. Your furry companions will be safe and protected with this thoughtful design feature.
Types of crates for dogs
The market offers crates for dogs in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles. As previously mentioned, these products can be categorized into two main groups: outdoor crates for dogs and indoor crates for dogs.
Outdoor Dog Crates
This is probably the most common type and what most people think of when they hear the term “dog crate.” Outdoor dog crates tend to be a bit sturdier than indoor ones. After all, there’s more to consider; outdoor crates need to withstand the elements and be highly durable. The best ones have good drainage and effective thermal insulation. Even though a crate is designed for outdoor use, it may require some maintenance over time to ensure it lasts longer. For instance, wooden crates might need to be re-waterproofed after a few years.
Indoor dog crates offer a flexible solution that caters to various aspects of a dog’s life, including training, relaxation, and safety. Serving as a designated space within the home, these crates provide a comfortable haven where dogs can retreat and feel secure. This controlled environment not only helps in managing a dog’s behavior but also plays a pivotal role in preventing accidents, particularly during periods when supervision might be limited.
Certain models of indoor dog crates come with added mobility, allowing them to be easily transported during trips or changes in location. These portable crates serve as a familiar sanctuary for dogs amid unfamiliar surroundings, providing a reassuring sense of continuity.
For dogs in recovery from surgery or illness, indoor crates serve as a dedicated space for convalescence. The confined area supports the healing process by limiting movement and external interactions, ensuring the dog’s recuperation is both peaceful and efficient.
In addition to their functional benefits, indoor dog crates can also possess aesthetically pleasing designs, doubling as furniture within the living space. This multifunctionality not only enhances the interior decor but also safeguards household items from any potential mischief.
Collectively, indoor dog crates contribute to the overall organization and security of a household. By fulfilling a dog’s need for a personal space while also assisting owners in managing their pets’ behaviors, these crates serve as an essential tool in creating a harmonious living environment for both dogs and their human companions.
Indoor Dog Crates
Why buy a crate for dogs?
This is a crucial question you should ask yourself before proceeding with the idea of buying a dog crate for your pet.
Behavior Management
A crate serves as a valuable tool for training your dog. It helps establish a routine and teaches them when and where it’s appropriate to eliminate waste. It also aids in teaching them commands like “stay” and “quiet.” By providing a designated space, you can prevent undesirable behaviors and encourage positive ones.
Safety and Security
A crate acts as a safe haven, particularly when you’re not able to supervise your dog. It prevents them from chewing on dangerous objects, ingesting harmful substances, or causing household damage. This confinement ensures their well-being and protects your home from potential accidents.
Travel Convenience
Portable crates offer familiarity and comfort when you’re on the move. Whether it’s a road trip or a flight, your dog’s crate becomes their safe zone amidst unfamiliar surroundings. This reduces travel anxiety and makes journeys less stressful for both you and your pet.
Restful Retreat
Dogs have a natural instinct to seek out cozy spaces to rest. A crate provides a den-like environment where your dog can retreat for peaceful naps and downtime. This secure space can alleviate stress, helping them feel safe and content, ultimately contributing to their overall mental and emotional health.
Factors to consider when choosing a crate for your dog.
A crate for dogs can be a considerable purchase, so make sure you buy one that is perfect for your dog.
Keep these considerations in mind when making your choice:
Materials
Plastic crates are valued for their durability, making them suitable for active dogs. Their smooth surfaces contribute to easy maintenance, as spills and messes can be quickly wiped off. Lightweight and equipped with handles, plastic crates are designed for convenient travel. However, their heat retention requires proper ventilation in warm weather. While functional, plastic crates may not offer the same aesthetic appeal as other options.
Wooden crates stand out for their aesthetics, seamlessly blending with home decor. They provide better insulation and stability in varying weather conditions. The solid nature of wood offers a cozy and secure feeling, especially for dogs that enjoy enclosed spaces. However, they require regular upkeep to prevent deterioration, making maintenance an important consideration. Wooden crates are heavier and less portable compared to other materials.
Metal crates are characterized by their strength and sturdiness, making them suitable for larger or stronger dogs. They offer excellent ventilation and visibility, allowing dogs to see their surroundings and potentially reducing anxiety. The smooth surfaces of metal crates are easy to clean, and many designs are foldable for convenient travel. While they may lack the decorative aspect of other materials, metal crates prioritize functionality.
Each material has its own set of advantages and considerations, allowing you to choose the best fit based on your dog’s needs, your lifestyle, and your home environment.
Size
Choosing the right size for a dog crate is crucial for your pet’s comfort and well-being. The crate should allow your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. It shouldn’t be too small or too large, as a snug fit promotes proper behavior and a sense of security.
Consider the purpose of the crate – training, travel, or rest – and ensure it aligns with your dog’s age and expected growth. A well-sized crate provides a cozy and safe space that meets your dog’s needs effectively.
Dog Behavoir
Tailoring the choice of crate to your dog’s temperament and behavior ensures their comfort and positive association with the crate. For more sociable dogs, an open crate offers visibility and interaction with the surroundings, making them feel part of the environment.
On the other hand, dogs that tend to be more anxious or introverted benefit from an enclosed crate that provides a safe and private space, helping them feel secure and calm. By recognizing your dog’s preferences, you create a welcoming space that caters to their individual needs, contributing to a harmonious and stress-free crate experience.
Security and Safety
When choosing a crate for your dog, prioritizing security and safety is paramount. Look for crates with secure latches or locks that prevent your dog from accidentally escaping. This feature ensures that your pet remains safely confined, especially if they are prone to getting into mischief or if you need to leave them unattended for a period. A crate with robust locks adds peace of mind, knowing your dog is secure even when you’re not around.
Durability
A durable crate is essential, particularly if you have an energetic or strong dog. Dogs may scratch, chew, or attempt to paw their way out of the crate, especially during initial training phases. Opt for a crate constructed from sturdy materials that can withstand your dog’s behavior without showing signs of wear and tear. Investing in a crate that can endure your pet’s actions over time ensures it remains a reliable and lasting solution.
Easy to Clean
Dogs can be messy, and keeping their living space clean is vital for their health and your convenience. When selecting a crate, consider models with removable trays or floors that make cleaning hassle-free. Accidents, spilled water, or shedding hair are common occurrences, so a crate that is easy to maintain ensures a hygienic environment for your pet. A quick and efficient cleaning routine not only benefits your dog but also enhances your overall experience as a pet owner.
Floor
The comfort of the crate’s floor is crucial for your dog’s well-being. A comfortable floor not only offers physical comfort but also contributes to your pet’s overall experience inside the crate.
A soft and padded floor can provide reassurance for your dog, particularly during extended periods of rest. Opting for a crate with a comfortable floor creates a space where your dog can curl up and relax more pleasantly. This is especially important for older dogs, those with sensitive joints, or those in need of a tranquil resting spot.
Beyond comfort, the right crate floor can also aid in maintaining cleanliness. Choosing a crate with a removable and easy-to-clean floor allows you to keep the space fresh and free from unpleasant odors. This cleaning convenience benefits both you and your dog’s health by ensuring a clean and hygienic environment.
In summary, a comfortable crate floor is essential for your dog’s physical and emotional well-being. It provides a place for them to rest comfortably and feel secure while facilitating the maintenance of a clean and inviting space for both your pet and yourself.