The Best Locking Dog Crate
Find the perfect locking dog crate for your pup, from small breeds to large escape artists. Our research-based guide covers top-rated models with secure latches, durable builds, and smart features.
By Marlene Barnes
Updated September 12, 2026
A locking dog crate is more than a simple enclosure, it’s a secure sanctuary that gives you peace of mind and your dog a safe den.
Whether you are crate training a new puppy, managing a dog with separation anxiety, or simply need a robust kennel that won’t let a determined escape artist out, the locking mechanism is the key feature.
In this guide, we evaluate the best locking dog crates on the market, analyzing specifications, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback to help you choose the right one for your home and lifestyle.
Our research team at BestProducts independently assesses each product against a consistent set of criteria, including build quality, locking reliability, ease of assembly, and overall value. Every model receives a BP Score out of 10 based on our aggregated findings.
Below you’ll find our top picks, followed by a detailed buying guide to help you make an informed decision.
| Award | Product | BP Score About BP ScoreThe BP Score is our own rating from 0 to 10, based on performance, design and build, ease of use, and value. It reflects independent research and is never influenced by manufacturers, retailers, or affiliate commissions. Learn more › | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall |
MidWest iCrate 24-Inch Single Door
|
9.7/10 | $40.99 | Buy |
| Best Premium |
Oranland 48-Inch Heavy Duty Crate
|
9.7/10 | $219.95 | Buy |
| Best Budget |
MidWest iCrate 30-Inch Single Door for Medium
|
9.6/10 | $49.99 | Buy |
Precision Pet Provalue 36-Inch Two-Door Crate
|
9.6/10 | $82.52 | Buy | |
MidWest iCrate 42-Inch Double Door for Large
|
9.6/10 | $100.99 | Buy | |
Sweetcrispy 42-Inch Double Door Dog Crate
|
9.6/10 | $70.59 | Buy | |
| Best Value |
blightor 38-Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate
|
9.6/10 | $99.98 | Buy |
VERIFURTY 48-Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate
|
9.6/10 | $159.99 | Buy | |
Amazon Basics 48-Inch Double Door Dog Crate
|
9.5/10 | $83.87 | Buy | |
Rexwelten 48-Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate
|
9.5/10 | $199.99 | Buy |
MidWest iCrate 24-Inch Single Door
This wire crate from MidWest Homes for Pets is designed for small breeds weighing 12 to 20 pounds. It features a durable metal construction with a protective e-coat finish, a leak-proof tray, and a divider panel to adjust as your puppy grows.
Pros
- Safety-focused design with Paw Block latch
- Easy to assemble without tools
- Adjustable size with included divider
- Leak-proof plastic tray
- Lightweight and portable at 13.8 lbs
Cons
- Single door entry may limit placement options
- May be too small for dogs near 20 lbs
Oranland 48-Inch Heavy Duty Crate
For large breed owners seeking a sturdy crate, the Oranland 48-Inch model features a reinforced baseplate that supports up to 300 pounds and military-grade steel construction. It assembles in under five minutes and includes a removable plastic tray for easy cleaning.
Pros
- Reinforced baseplate supports up to 300 lbs
- Military-grade 20-gauge steel construction
- Assembles in under 5 minutes with pre-assembled parts
- Removable ABS tray with anti-odor design
- Resistant coating prevents claw damage
Cons
- Can be noisy when pet moves inside
- Heavy (84 pounds) may be difficult to relocate
MidWest iCrate 30-Inch Single Door for Medium
A sturdy metal crate ideal for medium-sized dogs up to 40 lbs, designed with rounded corners and a secure slide-bolt latch for safety. Its adjustable divider panel and tool-free assembly make it a practical choice for owners focused on crate training.
Pros
- Safe, rounded corner design
- Secure slide-bolt latch prevents escapes
- Divider panel adapts to growing dogs
- Leak-proof tray and rubber feet
Cons
- Bulky for small spaces
- Single door may limit placement options
- E-coat can scratch over time
Precision Pet Provalue 36-Inch Two-Door Crate
Designed for medium dogs in the 50 to 70 pound range, this two-door wire crate combines a five-point locking system with a rust-resistant finish for secure everyday use. The included divider panel makes it a practical pick for puppy housebreaking, and the collapsible frame is easy to store when not needed.
Pros
- Two doors and five-point lock boost security
- Rust-resistant finish suits occasional outdoor use
- Removable pan makes cleanup easy
- Divider panel adapts for growing puppies
- Collapsible frame is easy to store
Cons
- Standard duty wire is not a heavy duty build
- 36-inch size may be snug for 70-pound dogs
MidWest iCrate 42-Inch Double Door for Large
This sturdy wire crate from MidWest Homes is built for large breeds up to 90 pounds, with a double-door design and included divider for puppy-to-adult training. Durable construction with safety features like Paw Block latches and rounded corners makes it a solid pick for pet owners seeking a reliable, easy-to-assemble crate.
Pros
- Durable metal wire with rust-resistant e-coat
- Double doors for flexible placement
- Divider panel supports crate training
Cons
- Heavy at 37 pounds
- Not ideal for dogs over 90 pounds
Sweetcrispy 42-Inch Double Door Dog Crate
This foldable crate prioritizes security with rounded edges, thick metal mesh, and double sliding bolt locks. The spacious interior and leak-proof tray make it a practical choice for medium-large dogs, while the collapsible design adds travel convenience.
Pros
- Enhanced security with rounded edges and heavy-duty locks
- Sturdy construction for long-term durability
- Foldable design for easy storage and travel
- Leak-proof ABS tray resists stains and odors
- Double doors allow flexible placement
Cons
- Only available in black
- No included divider for adjusting space
blightor 38-Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate
This escape-proof crate from blightor is built with a reinforced metal frame and dual locking doors to contain even determined chewers. Its smooth-rolling casters and removable plastic tray make it practical for daily use, while the quick assembly saves setup time.
Pros
- Sturdy escape-proof construction
- Dual doors for easy access
- Smooth-rolling locking casters
- Easy-clean removable tray
- Simple tool-free assembly
Cons
- Heavy weight (33.1 lbs) may be difficult to move
VERIFURTY 48-Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate
This extra-large metal crate features a self-locking latch to prevent accidental escapes and a removable floor for easy cleaning. The double-door design allows flexible placement, while heavy-duty steel and a scratch-resistant coating ensure long-lasting durability. It is best suited for medium to large dogs when sized correctly according to the included measuring guide.
Pros
- Self-locking latch prevents escapes
- Removable floor for easy cleaning
- Quick assembly in about 20 minutes
- Double-door for flexible placement
- Durable steel with non-toxic coating
Amazon Basics 48-Inch Double Door Dog Crate
This large metal wire crate from Amazon Basics accommodates big breeds like Labradors and Great Danes, with two doors and a divider panel for flexible space management. It folds flat and includes a removable tray for easy cleaning.
Pros
- Durable metal wire construction
- Two doors for flexible placement
- Divider panel for size adjustment
- Folds flat for easy storage
- Removable tray for quick cleaning
Cons
- Tray may shift if hook not locked properly
- Manual door lock may not suit all users
- No included pad or bedding
Rexwelten 48-Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate
This heavy-duty crate uses enclosed steel panels with small ventilation holes to create a calming, den-like space for anxious large dogs. Its triple-door design and removable floor make it convenient for daily use and cleaning.
Pros
- Enclosed design reduces anxiety and provides privacy
- Removable floor panels for easy cleaning
- Self-locking latches prevent escapes
- Triple doors offer flexible access and placement
- Durable steel construction with non-toxic coating
Cons
- Very heavy at 72 pounds
- Large footprint may not suit small spaces
Best Locking Dog Crate Buying Guide
Size and Fit
The most important factor is getting the right size. A crate should be large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so big that they can use one end as a bathroom.
Measure your dog from nose to tail and from floor to the top of the head (while sitting).
Many locking crates come with a divider panel that allows you to adjust the interior space as your puppy grows, a feature that adds long-term value.
For reference, a 24-inch crate typically suits dogs up to 20 pounds, while a 48-inch crate accommodates breeds over 90 pounds. If you are unsure, our large dog crate guide provides breed-specific recommendations.
Material and Durability
Locking crates are usually made from welded wire, heavy-duty steel, or reinforced metal. Look for a thick wire gauge (lower numbers mean thicker wire) and a corrosion-resistant finish. Some models feature an upgraded baseplate or reinforced corners to resist bending.
For escape-prone dogs, a heavy-duty crate with a solid locking mechanism is essential. The best reinforced dog crates often incorporate additional welds and a stronger frame.
Security Features
The “locking” element is what sets these crates apart. Look for slide-bolt latches that are easy for you to operate but difficult for a dog to manipulate.
Some crates have a double-lock system or a door that can be secured with a carabiner or padlock. A secure door not only prevents escapes but also keeps children and other pets safe.
For high-anxiety dogs that may try to chew or push the door open, consider a crate with a reinforced latch mechanism.
Portability and Storage
Many locking crates are foldable for easy transport and storage. If you plan to move the crate between rooms or take it on trips, look for a model that collapses flat and has a carrying handle.
Some crates are designed with a two-door configuration, making it easier to place in tight spaces. The best collapsible dog crates offer a good balance of security and convenience.
Ease of Cleaning
A removable, waterproof tray is a must for quick cleanup. Look for trays that slide out without removing the crate’s assembly. Some crates have a raised tray lip to contain spills.
If you use the crate for travel, a model with a non-porous tray will resist odors and stains.
Why You Should Trust Us
BestProducts is an independent review site dedicated to helping you find the best products through thorough research. We do not conduct our own product trials; our evaluations are grounded in research, published data, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback.
Each product is scored on our proprietary BP Score scale (0, 10), which reflects a consistent set of weighted criteria such as build quality, security features, value, and user satisfaction. Our team continuously monitors market trends and updates recommendations to ensure accuracy.
Final Thoughts
After analyzing the top contenders, we’ve selected the following award winners based on their BP Scores and specific strengths:
- Best Overall: MidWest Homes for Pets 24-Inch Single Door iCrate, This compact crate earned the highest BP Score in our lineup thanks to its excellent build quality, secure latch, and unbeatable value for small breeds. It’s the perfect starter crate for puppies and toy breeds.
- Best for Large Breeds: Oranland 48-Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate, With a reinforced baseplate and heavy-gauge wire, this crate offers exceptional security for large, strong dogs. Its BP Score of 9.7 reflects its durability and escape-proof design.
- Best Budget Pick: MidWest Homes for Pets 30-Inch Single Door iCrate, For medium-sized dogs, this model provides reliable locking and a solid build at a very competitive price point. It’s a consistent top performer in its category.
- Best Heavy Duty: VERIFURTY 48-Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate, This XXL kennel combines a robust locking mechanism with a powder-coated finish that resists rust and scratching. It’s ideal for anxious or powerful dogs that need a fortress-like enclosure.
Each of these crates has been vetted through our research process. For more options, explore our metal dog crate guide or the full pets category.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I measure my dog for a locking crate?
Measure your dog’s length from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, and height from the floor to the top of the head while sitting. Add 2, 4 inches to each measurement to ensure comfort.
Most crates provide size guidelines based on weight, but individual proportions vary.
Are locking crates escape-proof?
No crate is 100% escape-proof, but quality locking crates significantly reduce the risk. Look for models with robust slide-bolt latches, reinforced doors, and tight wire spacing. For persistent chewers or diggers, a heavy-duty crate with a solid baseplate is recommended.
Can I use a locking crate for travel?
Yes, many locking crates are designed to be foldable and portable. Check that the crate is airline-approved if you plan to fly. For car travel, ensure the crate can be secured with a seatbelt or cargo tie-downs.
Our traveling dog crate guide covers models specifically built for road trips.
What size locking crate do I need for a 50-pound dog?
A 36-inch crate is generally suitable for dogs weighing 50, 70 pounds. However, always measure your dog’s height and length to be sure. Some 36-inch models offer a divider panel for growing puppies.
How do I clean a locking dog crate?
Most crates come with a removable plastic tray that can be wiped down with mild soap and water. For the wire frame, use a damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals that could harm your pet. For deeper cleaning, many trays are dishwasher-safe.
Is a locking crate safe for puppies?
Yes, as long as the crate is appropriately sized and the locking mechanism is secure. Always supervise puppies during the first few uses.
A crate with a divider panel allows you to adjust the space as the puppy grows, preventing them from using one end as a bathroom.
About the author
Marlene covers crates, carriers, and grooming tools for BestProducts, comparing safety, travel comfort, and how well each tool handles different coats. She helps owners travel and groom without a struggle.