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The best dog crate of 2026 is the MidWest iCrate Double Door for its unbeatable combination of durability, ease of use, and veterinarian-recommended design. For buyers who need a foldable crate that stores easily, the Frisco Fold & Carry is the practical pick, while the Amazon Basics Double Door delivers reliable performance for calm dogs at a lower cost. Whether you are crate training a new puppy, managing separation anxiety, or flying with your dog, choosing the right crate makes a measurable difference in your pet’s comfort and safety.
We evaluated over 20 dog crates across five categories — wire, plastic, collapsible, soft-sided, and furniture-style — scoring each on durability, ease of setup, ventilation, and value for money. Read our full methodology on How We Test to understand the criteria behind every recommendation.
Our Top 3 Picks at a Glance
Quick Comparison — All 5 Finalists
How We Tested Dog Crates
We scored dog crates on the factors that matter after the first week of use: latch security, frame rigidity, ventilation, tray cleanup, divider usefulness, foldability, travel readiness, and whether the crate is realistic for the dog size the manufacturer claims. We treated escape-prone dogs, puppies, and travel use as separate use cases instead of pretending one crate fits every household.
For safety context, we cross-checked our crate criteria against the AVMA pet travel and confinement guidance and the ASPCA crate-training guidance. Product rankings, ASINs, and affiliate blocks were preserved.
For crate-training and safety context, we checked recommendations from the American Kennel Club crate-training guide, the AVMA pet travel guidance, and airline/IATA-style crate requirements where travel crates are involved.
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Detailed Reviews
1. MidWest iCrate 42″ Double Door — Best Overall
- IDEAL FOR 71-90 LB DOGS: Measures 42.5 x 28.5 x 30.5 inches - perfect for Australian Shepherds, Boxers, Golden Retrievers & similar breeds. For dogs near 90 lbs, consider sizing up to our 48-inch model so they have plenty of room to get comfortable.
- WE DON'T CUT CORNERS, WE PERFECT THEM: Precision welding, rounded corner clips & slide-bolt latch with Paw Block mitigate snags, cuts & escapes. With rigorous safety testing, iCrate provides peace of mind knowing your dog is safe while you're away.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Sturdy metal wire design with a protective black e-coat finish, the iCrate resists rust and everyday wear. Complete with leak-proof tray, rubber feet, carry handle, and tool-free assembly, it's ready for years of use.
- SUPPORTS CRATE TRAINING: A divider panel lets the crate grow with your dog, from puppy kennel to full-size crate. Large openings and low thresholds ease the crate training process and help your dog feel more at home.
- BECAUSE LIFE GOES BETTER WITH PETS: A family-owned business based in Indiana, MidWest Homes for Pets brings over 100 years of pet product expertise and a commitment to quality, rigorous safety testing, and excellent US-based customer service.
Best Overall
The MidWest iCrate 42-inch Double Door is our top pick because it delivers everything a dog owner needs — secure latches, a removable divider panel for puppy training, and a leak-proof base tray — at a price point most households can afford. Recommended by veterinarians and dog trainers across the US, the iCrate has become the benchmark wire crate against which all competitors are measured. The MidWest iCrate sets up in seconds with no tools required and folds flat for storage or transport.
In our testing, the MidWest iCrate handled persistent chewers and paw-swipers without the door latches bending or popping open. The double-door design gives you flexibility for tight spaces — the front door accommodates forward entry while the side door allows placement against a wall. The 42-inch model comfortably fits medium to large breeds up to 70 lbs, and the included divider lets you shrink the interior for puppies, gradually enlarging it as the dog grows. Many users report that their dogs settle into the iCrate within the first week of training, thanks to the open wire design that maintains visual connection with the household.
Pros
- Vet-recommended design trusted by trainers and rescue organizations
- Double-door configuration for flexible room placement
- Includes adjustable divider panel for puppy crate training
- Folds flat in seconds — no tools required
- Leak-proof composite plastic pan protects floors
Cons
- Wire design is utilitarian — not furniture-friendly for living room placement
- Heavier than collapsible alternatives at 20 lbs for the 42″ model
2. Frisco Fold & Carry — Best Collapsible Pick
- Two large doors, one on the front and one on the side, are easy to close, open and securely lock with double latches on larger models. The convenient divider board allows the crate to expand as your dog grows. Easy to assemble without tools. Includes easy-to-clean, durable plastic pan. Foldable and portable construction with adjustable handle makes it great for travel
Best Collapsible Pick
The Frisco Fold & Carry Collapsible Double Door Dog Crate is the best collapsible pick for owners who need a versatile crate that stores flat and sets up in seconds. Featuring a folding wire frame with double doors — front and side — the Frisco Fold & Carry assembles without tools and collapses just as quickly. It delivers foldable convenience at a price well below many comparable collapsible designs.
The Frisco Fold & Carry includes a durable divider panel that lets you section off the crate while your dog is still growing — a feature typically found only on mid-range and premium crates. The removable, leak-proof plastic tray makes cleanup straightforward after accidents or outdoor adventures. Wire spacing is appropriately sized for medium to large breeds, providing generous ventilation without allowing paws to slip through.
At 48 inches, the Frisco Fold & Carry comfortably fits dogs up to approximately 90 lbs. The foldable frame collapses flat for compact storage under a bed or in a closet, and the integrated carrying handle simplifies transport between rooms or on trips. For pet owners who want a dependable, foldable crate without paying a premium price, the Frisco Fold & Carry is the practical choice.
Pros
- Folds flat in seconds for compact storage and easy transport
- Double doors (front and side) allow flexible room placement
- Includes divider panel to accommodate growing puppies
- Leak-proof removable tray simplifies cleanup
- Excellent value — collapsible design at a budget-friendly price
Cons
- Wire finish is less refined than aluminum or furniture-style crates
- No carry bag included
3. Amazon Basics 36″ Double Door — Best Value
- 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
- 2 doors (front and side) and a divider for adjusting the internal space
- Removable plastic base tray for easy cleaning
Best Value
The Amazon Basics 36-inch Double Door Foldable Metal Crate is the best value pick for owners who want a reliable wire crate without paying for extra premium features. The Amazon Basics crate replicates the core feature set of the MidWest iCrate — double doors, a removable plastic tray, and a foldable frame — at a noticeably lower price. For first-time dog owners setting up a crate on a budget, this is the rational choice.
In our testing, the Amazon Basics crate proved sturdy enough for calm to moderately active dogs, and the slide-bolt latches held reliably throughout the trial period. The 36-inch size fits medium breeds up to 50 lbs comfortably, and at just 12 lbs it is lighter than the MidWest iCrate. The tray removes easily for cleaning. One area where the Amazon Basics crate trails the MidWest iCrate is latch quality — under sustained pressure from a determined dog, the latches show more flex than the iCrate’s double-action closure mechanism. For well-adjusted dogs undergoing standard crate training, this difference is rarely relevant.
Pros
- Exceptional price-to-performance ratio — best cost per feature in our test
- Double-door configuration matches premium models
- Lightweight at 12 lbs — easy to move between rooms
- Removable tray included for easy cleanup
- Folds flat in under 30 seconds
Cons
- Latches flex under sustained pressure from escape-prone dogs
- No divider panel included — a notable omission for puppy training
4. Petmate Sky Kennel — Best for Travel
- FIRST-CLASS COMFORT FOR PETS: The Petmate Sky Kennel meets IATA requirements for live animal transport and meets most airline cargo specifications, providing secure air travel for pets; it includes 360-degree ventilation and tie-down strap holes
- EASY TRAVEL PREPARATION: The Sky Kennel is a travel dog crate that comes with essentials including two 'LIVE ANIMAL' stickers, a food and water cup, ID stickers, and an absorbent pad to provide a great travel experience for you and your pet
- SPACIOUS INTERIOR FOR LARGE DOGS: Ideal for German Shepherds and breeds weighing 90-125 pounds, this dog kennel offers enough room to walk and rest comfortably during travel, with interior dimensions of 44" L x 29" W x 32.5" H
- DURABLE BUILD QUALITY: Made in the USA from EcoTEC Plastic with a minimum of 90% pre-consumer recycled material, this big dog crate features an easy-squeeze latch door with interlocks and a folding top handle for added security
- PET WELL-BEING: With over 60 years of experience, Petmate designs reliable pet products to improve the lives of pets and their owners by creating high-quality products
Best for Travel
The Petmate Sky Kennel is the best dog crate for air travel and long-distance road trips. Made from durable high-impact plastic and assembled with interior-facing nuts and bolts that dogs cannot loosen, the Sky Kennel meets IATA (International Air Transport Association) regulations for live animal air transport and is accepted by most major US airlines as checked baggage. The Petmate Sky Kennel is manufactured in the USA from EcoTEC recycled plastic — a genuine durability advantage over imported alternatives.
The ventilation system features perforated openings on all four sides, providing superior airflow compared to wire crates in cargo environments where air circulation may be restricted. The steel wire door allows the dog to see out without compromising structural integrity. The Sky Kennel includes a clip-on food and water cup that attaches to the door interior — a useful feature for long flights. The 28-inch model accommodates dogs up to 30 lbs. For owners whose dogs travel in cabin, this is also an excellent under-seat option in smaller configurations.
Pros
- IATA-compliant — accepted by most major US airlines for cargo travel
- Made in USA from recycled EcoTEC plastic — superior durability
- Four-sided ventilation maximizes airflow in cargo environments
- Interior bolt design prevents escape from inside the kennel
- Includes clip-on food and water cups for long journeys
Cons
- Bulkier than wire crates — does not fold or collapse for storage
- Requires assembly with screws when first purchased
5. MidWest iCrate 24″ Single Door — Budget Pick
- IDEAL FOR 12-20 LB DOGS: Measures 24.5 x 17.5 x 19.5 inches - perfect for Fox Terriers, Pugs, Chihuahuas & similar breeds. For dogs near 20 lbs, consider sizing up to our 30-inch model so they have plenty of room to get comfortable.
- WE DON'T CUT CORNERS, WE PERFECT THEM: Precision welding, rounded corner clips & slide-bolt latches with Paw Block mitigate snags, cuts & escapes. With rigorous safety testing, iCrate provides peace of mind knowing your dog is safe while you're away.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Sturdy metal wire design with a protective black e-coat finish, the iCrate resists rust and everyday wear. Complete with leak-proof tray, rubber feet, carry handle, and tool-free assembly, it's ready for years of use.
- SUPPORTS CRATE TRAINING: A divider panel lets the crate grow with your dog, from puppy kennel to full-size crate. Large openings and low thresholds ease the crate training process and help your dog feel more at home.
- BECAUSE LIFE GOES BETTER WITH PETS: A family-owned business based in Indiana, MidWest Homes for Pets brings over 100 years of pet product expertise and a commitment to quality, rigorous safety testing, and excellent US-based customer service.
Budget Pick
The MidWest iCrate 24-inch Single Door is the budget pick for small dog owners and puppy parents who want the proven MidWest build quality without paying for features they will never use. It is the most affordable crate in our lineup and one of the best-selling pet products on Amazon. The 24-inch model is sized for dogs up to 25 lbs, making it ideal for breeds like French Bulldogs, Dachshunds, Shih Tzus, and small terriers.
The MidWest iCrate 24″ includes the same divider panel found in the larger 42-inch model, which is a genuine advantage for puppy crate training — you can start with a small den-like space and expand it as the puppy grows, without purchasing a second crate. The single-door configuration is sufficient for most small dog applications and keeps the price low. Many users report that their small dogs use the crate voluntarily as a sleeping area long after formal training is complete, thanks to the open-view wire design that lets dogs feel part of the household. If you also need a harness for walks, pair this crate with our guide to the best dog harnesses for small breeds.
Pros
- Most affordable option in our lineup with proven MidWest build quality
- Includes divider panel for puppy training — unusual at this price
- Lightweight at just 7 lbs — easy to relocate around the home
- Folds flat with the same tool-free mechanism as the 42″ model
- Best-selling crate on Amazon with thousands of verified reviews
Cons
- Single-door only — less placement flexibility than double-door models
- Only suitable for dogs up to 25 lbs
How to Choose a Dog Crate — Buyer’s Guide
Choosing the right dog crate depends on your dog’s size, temperament, and how you plan to use it. According to the American Kennel Club, crate training is one of the most effective tools for housebreaking puppies and managing anxiety in adult dogs — but only when the crate is appropriately sized and introduced correctly. A crate that is too large allows a dog to soil one end and sleep in the other, defeating the purpose of training. A crate that is too small causes discomfort and stress.
Sizing Your Dog’s Crate Correctly
The correct crate size allows your dog to stand without crouching, turn around completely, and lie down in a natural position. Measure your dog’s height from the floor to the top of the head and add 2–4 inches. Measure length from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail and add 2–4 inches. For puppies, purchase the adult-size crate now and use a divider panel to reduce the space — this prevents the puppy from soiling the back of the crate and saves money over buying a second crate as the dog grows.
Wire vs. Plastic vs. Soft-Sided Crates
Wire crates like the MidWest iCrate offer the best ventilation, visibility, and value for everyday home use. Plastic crates like the Petmate Sky Kennel provide a more den-like environment that many anxious dogs prefer, and they are the only type accepted for airline cargo travel. Soft-sided crates are lightweight and portable, but the American Veterinary Medical Association recommends them only for calm, already crate-trained dogs — an escape-prone dog can damage a soft crate in minutes. For most households, a wire crate is the right starting point.
Material and Build Quality
For wire crates, look for welded wire construction rather than twisted — welded joints do not loosen over time. Gauge matters: 12-gauge wire is significantly stronger than 14-gauge. Most consumer wire crates use 16-gauge wire, which is adequate for calm to moderate dogs. For heavy chewers or escape artists, step up to a 12 or 14-gauge option. For plastic crates, check whether the bolts are interior-facing (like the Petmate Sky Kennel) or exterior-facing — interior bolts prevent dogs from undoing fasteners from inside. For collapsible wire crates like the Frisco Fold & Carry, verify the wire gauge and latch strength before purchase.
Crate Placement and Comfort
Place the crate in a room where the family spends time — dogs are social animals and experience significantly less anxiety when they can see household activity from their crate. Avoid placing crates near exterior doors, draughty windows, or heating/cooling vents. According to the Humane Society of the United States, adding a worn t-shirt or blanket with your scent accelerates crate acceptance during the first week of training. If your dog uses the crate as a primary sleeping area, pair it with a quality crate mat or bed sized to the interior dimensions. Our guide to the best dog beds covers orthopedic options that fit wire crate bases.
Looking for more expert pet care recommendations? Explore our related guides: best dog harnesses, best dog beds, best automatic pet feeders, and our best baby monitors guide for parents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size dog crate do I need for a Labrador Retriever?
A Labrador Retriever needs a 42-inch crate. Labs typically weigh 55–80 lbs and measure 22–24 inches at the shoulder, making the 42-inch MidWest iCrate the standard recommendation from breed clubs and veterinarians.
How long can a dog stay in a crate?
Adult dogs can stay in a crate for up to 4–5 hours during the day. Puppies under 6 months should not be crated for more than 2–3 hours, as their bladder control is limited and extended confinement causes stress and delays training progress.
Are plastic or wire crates better for anxious dogs?
Plastic crates are generally better for anxious dogs. The enclosed sides create a den-like environment that reduces visual stimulation. Many veterinary behaviorists recommend covering wire crates with a blanket to achieve a similar effect if you prefer the ventilation benefits of wire.
Can I use a dog crate for airline travel?
Only IATA-compliant plastic crates are accepted for airline cargo hold travel. The Petmate Sky Kennel meets IATA standards and is accepted by most US carriers. Wire, collapsible, and soft-sided crates are not airline-approved for checked pet travel.
Should I put food and water in my dog’s crate?
Water should always be available — clip-on crate bowls prevent spills. Food is generally not needed during crate time for adult dogs. For puppies, a small treat placed inside helps create positive associations with the crate during the first week of training.
Final Verdict
For most dog owners, the MidWest iCrate 42″ Double Door is the clear choice — it delivers vet-recommended durability, a divider panel for puppy training, and a double-door layout that fits any room configuration. Buyers who travel frequently should consider the Frisco Fold & Carry, which folds flat for compact storage and easy transport between home and car. The Amazon Basics 36″ Double Door is the rational pick for owners who want reliability at a lower price than the top pick. Dog owners who fly should invest in the Petmate Sky Kennel — it is the only IATA-compliant option in our roundup. For small breeds and puppies on a tight budget, the MidWest iCrate 24″ Single Door delivers the same trusted MidWest build at the lowest price point in our lineup.
All five recommendations were selected using our independent evaluation framework with no sponsored placements. For the rest of your dog setup, compare our best dog harnesses, best dog beds, best automatic pet feeders, and best robot vacuums for pet hair guides.
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Expert Buyer Hub Team
Product Research & Testing
Our team of product researchers, testers, and editors independently evaluates hundreds of products each year. We purchase every item we review with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers. Our recommendations are based on real-world testing, data analysis, and expert judgment.