The Best Pets Dog Crate
Find the best dog crate for your pet’s needs: from budget-friendly wire models to furniture-style crates that blend into your home. Our picks include options for travel, small breeds, and more.
By Marlene Barnes
Updated September 12, 2026
A dog crate is more than just a containment tool, it’s a safe haven for your pet, a training aid, and a travel essential.
With options ranging from basic wire models to furniture-style designs that blend into your home, choosing the right crate can feel overwhelming.
Our team at BestProducts has researched the market to bring you a curated list of top-rated crates for every need and budget.
We evaluated each product against consistent criteria, specifications, expert review consensus, verified buyer feedback, and published data, and scored them on our 0 to 10 BP Score.
Below, you’ll find our top picks, followed by a detailed buying guide to help you make the best choice for your furry friend.
| 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 Premium |
Hzuaneri 31.5-Inch Dog Crate Furniture
|
9.9/10 | $119.99 | Buy |
| Best Overall |
KSIIA Washable Dog Crate Bed 35x23 inch
|
9.9/10 | $19.99 | Buy |
SportPet Designs Large Airline Travel Kennel
|
9.9/10 | $124.01 | Buy | |
| Best Budget |
MidWest iCrate 24-Inch Single Door
|
9.7/10 | $40.99 | Buy |
MidWest iCrate 30-Inch Single Door for Medium
|
9.6/10 | $49.99 | Buy | |
MidWest iCrate 48-Inch Single Door Crate
|
9.6/10 | $89.99 | Buy | |
| Best Value |
Sweetcrispy 42-Inch Double Door Dog Crate
|
9.6/10 | $70.59 | Buy |
BestPet 48-Inch Foldable Dog Crate
|
9.4/10 | $66.88 | Buy |
Hzuaneri 31.5-Inch Dog Crate Furniture
This furniture-style crate doubles as a TV stand or nightstand, blending into home decor with its arch design. Built with heavy-duty iron pipe and double locks, it offers anti-chew and anti-escape security for small to medium dogs like French Bulldogs or Corgis.
Pros
- Heavy-duty anti-chew construction
- Double locks on each door
- Decorative multi-use furniture
- Three-door easy access design
- Stylish arch door blends with decor
Cons
- Only suitable for small/medium breeds
- Heavy at 39.2 pounds
KSIIA Washable Dog Crate Bed 35x23 inch
This plush crate bed combines thick polypropylene fiber fill with a soft rose velvet cover to support joints and ease anxiety. Its non-slip bottom and machine-washable design make it a practical choice for medium dogs up to 60 pounds.
Pros
- Plush, supportive padding for joint comfort
- Soft velvet fabric stays cozy and sheds little
- Non-slip bottom adds stability and security
- Fully machine washable without losing shape
- Versatile for crates, travel, or home use
Cons
- Vacuum-packed so needs 24 hours to fully expand
- May feel too thick for low-profile crates
- Limited color option (gray only)
SportPet Designs Large Airline Travel Kennel
Designed for air travel, this hard-sided kennel meets IATA standards for safe transport. It includes removable wheels for easy airport navigation and collapses for storage. Suitable for large dogs up to 28 inches long and 20 inches tall.
Pros
- IATA airline compliant for safe air travel
- Durable hard-sided plastic shell
- Removable wheels for easy airport transport
- Collapsible for compact storage
- Includes food bowls and live animal labels
Cons
- Requires assembly with metal bolts and nuts
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
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
MidWest iCrate 48-Inch Single Door Crate
This sturdy wire crate from MidWest Homes for Pets is sized for extra-large breeds like German Shepherds and Huskies. It features rounded corner clips, slide-bolt latches with paw block, and a leak-proof tray.
Pros
- Durable metal wire with rust-resistant finish
- Includes divider panel for crate training
- Tool-free assembly with carry handle
Cons
- Single door limits placement options
- May be tight for dogs near 110 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
BestPet 48-Inch Foldable Dog Crate
This BestPet crate offers a collapsible, double-door design that makes it easy to load your dog and store when not in use. Its reinforced steel frame and rust-resistant wire provide durability, while the removable ABS tray simplifies cleanup. A solid choice for pet owners seeking a portable, secure kennel for home or travel.
Pros
- Dual front and side doors with secure latches
- Foldable for easy storage and transport
- Rust-resistant wire with reinforced edges
- Leakproof ABS tray resists stains and odors
- Lightweight design at 38 pounds
Best Pets Dog Crate Buying Guide
Size and Weight Capacity
Selecting the correct size is crucial for your dog’s comfort and safety. Measure your dog from nose to tail and from floor to the top of their head while standing. Add a few inches for wiggle room.
A crate that’s too large defeats the purpose of a den-like space, while one that’s too small can cause stress.
For reference, check our small dog crate guide if you have a petite pup, or the XXL crate guide for giant breeds.
Most crates list recommended weight ranges. The Midwest iCrate models, for instance, offer sizes from 24 to 48 inches, covering small to extra-large breeds. Always prioritize a crate that allows your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
For growing puppies, consider a size that includes a divider panel so the space can expand as they do.
Material and Durability
Dog crates typically come in wire, plastic (hard-sided), or furniture-style (wood/metal hybrid). Wire crates like the best wire dog crates offer excellent ventilation and visibility, and they fold flat for storage.
Plastic crates are favored for airline travel and provide a cozy, enclosed feel. Furniture-style crates are designed to double as end tables or cabinets, making them ideal for living spaces.
Durability depends on gauge and build. The BestPet model features heavy-duty metal and a black epoxy finish that resists scratches. If you have a strong chewer, look for reinforced doors and welded seams.
For travel, the SportPet hard-sided carrier is built to withstand airline handling and includes ventilation on all sides.
Ease of Assembly and Portability
Most modern crates are designed for quick assembly without tools. Foldable crates like the Midwest iCrate and Sweetcrispy fold down in seconds, making them great for car trips or occasional use.
Double-door models (front and side) give you flexibility in placement and make it easier for your dog to enter.
If you frequently move the crate between rooms or take it on the road, consider weight and handle design.
The Hzuaneri furniture crate is heavier but serves as permanent furniture, while the SportPet carrier comes with wheels and a telescoping handle for easy airport navigation. For lightweight options, see our best collapsible dog crate roundup.
Safety and Airline Compliance
For air travel, the crate must meet airline specifications: hard-sided, leak-proof, with proper ventilation and a secure door. The SportPet carrier is specifically designed to be airline compliant and includes a food/water dish that can be accessed from outside.
Always check with your airline for current requirements. For car travel, a crate that can be strapped down or one with an anchor point adds safety.
At home, ensure the crate has no sharp edges or gaps that could trap paws. Many basic crates feature a divider panel that also acts as a safety barrier for puppies. Our article on airline-approved carriers provides deeper guidance for frequent flyers.
Comfort and Accessories
A crate is only as good as the bedding inside. The KSIIA washable dog bed is designed to fit standard crate sizes and offers plush comfort with a non-slip bottom. Removable, machine-washable covers are a must for easy cleaning.
Some crates include a removable pan; you can add a crate mat for extra cushioning.
If your dog is anxious, consider a crate cover or a furniture-style crate that muffles noise. The Hzuaneri 31.5-inch model has a wooden cabinet design that feels more like a piece of furniture and can double as a side table.
For more ideas, browse our Pets category for related products like dog beds and pet cameras to complete your setup.
Why You Should Trust Us
BestProducts is an independent review site. 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 0 to 10 BP Score using a consistent set of criteria relevant to its category. Our recommendations are unbiased, we accept no payment or free products from manufacturers for favorable coverage.
Affiliate commissions help us operate, but they never influence our ratings.
Final Thoughts
After thorough analysis, here are our top picks in the Best Pets Dog Crate category:
- Best Overall: Hzuaneri 31.5″ Dog Crate Furniture, This furniture-style crate earned the highest BP Score in our lineup thanks to its stylish design, solid wood construction, and a two-door setup that fits seamlessly into any room. It’s perfect for owners who want a crate that doesn’t look like a cage.
- Best for Travel: SportPet Airline Compliant LARGE 31.5″ Travel Dog Kennel, With a 9.9 BP Score, this hard-sided carrier is airline-approved, includes removable wheels, and offers excellent ventilation. Ideal for pets up to 28 inches long.
- Best Budget Basic Crate: Midwest 24-Inch Single Door iCrate, A reliable wire crate for small breeds (12, 20 lbs) at a price that won’t break the bank. Its single-door design and folding ability make it a no-fuss choice.
- Best Crate Accessory: KSIIA Washable Dog Bed Medium Size, This plush bed fits 35×23 inch crates and is machine washable. The 9.9 BP Score reflects outstanding comfort and easy maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size crate does my dog need?
Measure your dog’s length from nose to tail and height from floor to the top of their head while standing. Add 2, 4 inches to each dimension. Many crates include size charts; the Midwest iCrate comes in multiple lengths from 24 to 48 inches.
A crate should allow your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down without feeling cramped.
Are wire crates or plastic crates better?
Wire crates offer better airflow and visibility, and they fold flat for storage. Plastic crates provide a den-like atmosphere that can reduce anxiety, and they are required for air travel.
Your choice depends on your dog’s personality, your home layout, and how you plan to use the crate. Some owners use a wire crate at home and a plastic one for travel.
Can I use a crate for airline travel?
Yes, but the crate must be airline-compliant: hard-sided, leak-proof, with proper ventilation, and a secure door. The SportPet carrier in our list meets these requirements. Always check with your airline for specific size and material restrictions.
Our best dog carrier for air travel guide has more details.
How do I clean a dog crate?
Remove bedding and any tray. For wire crates, wipe down with a damp cloth and pet-safe disinfectant. Metal pans can be washed with soap and water. Plastic crates can be hosed down. The KSIIA bed cover is machine-washable.
Regular cleaning prevents odors and keeps your pet healthy.
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.