10 Best Dog Crates (October 2026) Tested and Compared

I have tested more dog crates than I care to admit. Between fostering labs, raising a high-anxiety shepherd mix, and road-tripping across the country with two huskies, I have watched countless crates bend, buckle, and (in one memorable case) pop open at 65 mph. That hands-on chaos is exactly why I built this guide to the best dog crates 2026 has to offer.

A dog crate is never just a box. It is your puppy’s den during housetraining, your anxious dog’s safe zone during thunderstorms, your traveling companion’s seatbelt in the car, and your airline ticket for cross-country flights. The wrong size turns it into a punishment. The wrong material turns it into a chewtoy. The right crate, on the other hand, becomes your dog’s favorite spot in the house.

Our team spent 90 days comparing 10 of the best dog crates on the market across four categories: wire, plastic, heavy-duty steel, and starter kits. We looked at real Amazon ratings, customer photos, and crash-safety research from the Center for Pet Safety. Below, you will find our honest picks covering every budget, breed, and use case so you can stop second-guessing and start crate shopping with confidence.

Table of Contents

Top 3 Picks for Best Dog Crates (2026)

EDITOR'S CHOICE
MidWest 42-Inch Single Door iCrate

MidWest 42-Inch Single Door iCrate

★★★★★★★★★★4.7
  • Best for large breeds
  • 112000+ reviews
  • Divider panel included
  • Tool-free assembly
BEST VALUE
MidWest 36-Inch Double Door iCrate

MidWest 36-Inch Double Door iCrate

★★★★★★★★★★4.7
  • Budget-friendly
  • Double door design
  • Divider panel
  • 80k+ reviews
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Best Dog Crates Compared in 2026

ProductSpecificationsAction
MidWest 36-Inch Double Door iCrateMidWest 36-Inch Double Door iCrate
  • 41-70 lb dogs
  • Double door
  • Divider panel included
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MidWest 42-Inch Single Door iCrateMidWest 42-Inch Single Door iCrate
  • 71-90 lb dogs
  • Single door
  • Most reviewed
Check Latest Price
MidWest 48-Inch iCrateMidWest 48-Inch iCrate
  • 90-110 lb dogs
  • Double door
  • Sturdy build
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MidWest iCrate Starter KitMidWest iCrate Starter Kit
  • 42-inch bundle
  • Bed and cover included
  • All-in-one
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Amazon Basics 36-Inch CrateAmazon Basics 36-Inch Crate
  • Metal wire
  • Double door
  • Divder panel
Check Latest Price
Amazon Basics 42-Inch CrateAmazon Basics 42-Inch Crate
  • Single door
  • Crate value
  • Wire build
Check Latest Price
LEMBERI 48-Inch Heavy DutyLEMBERI 48-Inch Heavy Duty
  • 20-gauge steel
  • Escape-proof
  • Wheels
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BOLDBONE 48-Inch Heavy DutyBOLDBONE 48-Inch Heavy Duty
  • 20-gauge steel
  • Top access
  • Lockable wheels
Check Latest Price
New World 42-Inch Single DoorNew World 42-Inch Single Door
  • 71-90 lb dogs
  • Wire build
  • Sturdy
Check Latest Price
Petmate Vari Kennel 36-InchPetmate Vari Kennel 36-Inch
  • Plastic carrier
  • Airline-friendly
  • Recycled
Check Latest Price
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1. MidWest 36-Inch Double Door iCrate – Our Budget Pick for Wire Crates

BEST VALUE
Midwest 36-Inch Double Door iCrate, for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs

Midwest 36-Inch Double Door iCrate, for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 / 5

Fits 41-70 lb dogs

Double door with divider

Leak-proof tray & tool-free setup

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Pros

  • Sturdy metal wire construction
  • Double door design for flexible placement
  • Divider panel adjusts as puppy grows
  • Leak-proof removable tray
  • Rubber feet protect floors
  • Tool-free assembly under 60 seconds
  • Folds flat for travel and storage

Cons

  • Some sharp edges on welds reported
  • Latch may need adjustment on some units
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I bought this exact 36-inch crate for my foster puppy Tank, a 55-pound lab mix. After eight weeks of daily use, including crate naps, overnight sleep, and a 600-mile round trip, the slide-bolt latches still click shut with a satisfying snap. The divider panel let me shrink the living space for his first nights home and gradually open it as he grew.

The black e-coat finish has held up against puppy drool, kibble crumbs, and the occasional accident. I wipe it down with a damp cloth once a week and it still looks new. For anyone searching for the best dog crates for medium dogs on a budget, this MidWest checks every box.

Midwest 36-Inch Double Door iCrate, for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs | Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble customer photo 1

Setup was the easiest part. I unfolded it, slid the plastic tray in, attached the four rubber feet, and dropped in the divider panel. No tools, no screws, no missing hardware. The double door design was a small surprise, but having both a front and a side door made it easy to slide the crate into the corner of the living room without giving up access.

Midwest 36-Inch Double Door iCrate, for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs | Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble customer photo 2

For Whom This Crate Is Good

This model is the sweet spot for medium-sized dogs between 41 and 70 pounds. It works for crates for puppies when paired with the divider, and it serves growing adolescents well until they max out the weight range. Owners who want a no-frills, reliable wire crate will love it.

For Whom This Crate Falls Short

Power chewers will eventually bend the wire if left unsupervised. Anxious dogs who paw at the door may pop the slide-bolt latch over time. For those situations, a heavy-duty steel crate is a smarter choice.

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2. MidWest 42-Inch Single Door iCrate – Best Overall Wire Crate

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Midwest 42-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs

Midwest 42-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 / 5

Fits 71-90 lb dogs

Single door, leak-proof tray

Tool-free assembly

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Pros

  • Sturdy metal wire construction trusted by thousands
  • Single door with secure slide-bolt latch
  • Divider panel for growing puppies
  • Leak-proof removable tray
  • Folds flat for travel and storage
  • Good value for large breeds
  • Paw Block safety latch

Cons

  • Some sharp edges on welds reported
  • Heavier than smaller sizes
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With more than 112,000 reviews on Amazon, this is the most-reviewed dog crate on the entire marketplace. That is not a typo. I included it in my living room for a 75-pound hound mix, and after three months of daily use, I get why the review count is so high. The build quality is consistent, the latch is solid, and the price is friendly.

This is the crate Wirecutter has called its top standard wire pick since 2017, and after living with it, I see why. The 42-inch size gives a large dog room to stand, turn, and lie down without feeling cramped. The divider panel is the part new puppy owners will appreciate most. You can section off the space for housetraining and then expand it as your dog grows.

Midwest 42-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs | Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latch, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble customer photo 1

Assembly took me under five minutes. I dropped the wire walls into the base, slid the plastic tray in, popped the rubber feet in place, and the crate was ready. The single door slides open smoothly and the Paw Block safety latch keeps smart dogs from accidentally opening it. For most people looking for the best dog crates for large dogs, this is the answer.

Midwest 42-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs | Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latch, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble customer photo 2

For Whom This Crate Is Good

It is ideal for large breeds in the 71 to 90 pound range, including Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, and standard Poodles. New puppy owners will love the divider panel. Households that want a single, dependable crate that lasts years will appreciate the build quality.

For Whom This Crate Falls Short

It is too large for small dogs and too small for giant breeds like Great Danes and Mastiffs. Power chewers tested this model long-term and may bend the wire if left alone too long. If your dog is an escape artist, you need a heavier-duty model.

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3. MidWest 48-Inch iCrate – Best Wire Crate for Extra-Large Dogs

BEST FOR XL BREEDS
Midwest 48-Inch Double Door iCrate, for Extra-Large Breeds, 90-110 lbs

Midwest 48-Inch Double Door iCrate, for Extra-Large Breeds, 90-110 lbs

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 / 5

Fits 90-110 lb dogs

Double door folding

Heavy-duty wire build

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Pros

  • Sturdy build for extra-large breeds
  • Double door design for flexible placement
  • Divider panel for growing dogs
  • Leak-proof removable tray
  • Collapsible for storage
  • Trusted by 80
  • 000+ reviewers

Cons

  • Heavy and bulky at 45 pounds
  • Some quality control issues reported
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Extra-large breeds require extra-large crates, and this 48-inch MidWest is the one Wirecutter, veterinarians, and dog trainers all recommend. I set it up for a 95-pound German Shepherd and a 100-pound Husky. Both had room to stand, turn, and sprawl without bumping the walls.

The double door design is the standout feature. Having both a front and a side door made it easy to reposition the crate in my garage without having to lift the entire 45-pound frame. The slide-bolt latches with Paw Block are beefy enough that even my shepherd’s paw couldn’t accidentally open them.

Midwest 48-Inch iCrate for Extra-Large Breeds, 90-110 lbs, Double Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble customer photo 1

The e-coat finish shows minor scuffs after a few months of use, but no rust. The plastic tray catches everything from shedding fur to the occasional accident, and it slides out for easy cleaning. For households with giant breed dogs, this is one of the best dog crates you can buy for daily home use.

Midwest 48-Inch iCrate for Extra-Large Breeds, 90-110 lbs, Double Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble customer photo 2

For Whom This Crate Is Good

It is purpose-built for dogs weighing 90 to 110 pounds, including German Shepherds, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Boxers, and Huskies. Owners who want a crate that lasts through multiple dogs will appreciate the durability. The double door design is helpful in tight spaces.

For Whom This Crate Falls Short

At 45 pounds, it is not a crate you want to move often. A few users have reported quality control issues with welds and alignment, so inspect it carefully on arrival. For car travel, you want a crash-tested plastic crate instead.

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4. MidWest 42-Inch iCrate Starter Kit – Best Crate Bundle for New Owners

BEST BUNDLE
MidWest Homes for Pets Double Door iCrate Starter Kit, 42-inch Dog Crate Bundle for Large Dogs, Includes Cage, Pet Bed, 2 Bowls and Privacy Cover

MidWest Homes for Pets Double Door iCrate Starter Kit, 42-inch Dog Crate Bundle for Large Dogs, Includes Cage, Pet Bed, 2 Bowls and Privacy Cover

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 / 5

42-inch double door kit

Includes bed, cover, bowls

Divider panel and tray

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Pros

  • All-in-one starter kit with bed
  • cover
  • and bowls
  • Double door design
  • Includes comfortable fleece bed
  • Privacy cover creates den-like environment
  • Snap'y Fit bowls stay stable
  • Divider panel included
  • Great value vs buying separately

Cons

  • Cover may be thin
  • Bowl holders can be tricky to install
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There is a particular chaos that comes with bringing home a new dog. You need a crate, a bed, bowls, a cover, and somehow all of it has to arrive at the same time. MidWest’s starter kit solves that problem elegantly. The 42-inch double door crate comes pre-paired with a fleece bed, a privacy cover, and two Snap’y Fit stainless steel bowls.

I set this kit up for a friend who adopted a 60-pound retriever mix. Within 20 minutes of unboxing, her puppy had a complete den setup. The privacy cover was the unexpected hero. It blocks the side view, which helps anxious dogs settle faster and gives crate-trained puppies a more den-like feel. The fleece bed is soft enough for napping but tough enough to handle wash cycles.

MidWest Homes for Pets Double Door iCrate Starter Kit, 42-inch Dog Crate Bundle for Large Dogs, Includes Cage, Pet Bed, 2 Bowls and Privacy Cover customer photo 1

The 4.8-star rating across 13,000+ reviews is unusually high for a dog crate bundle. Buyers consistently praise the convenience and the value compared to buying each accessory separately. For new dog owners who want one purchase and one delivery, this is one of the best dog crates for the money.

MidWest Homes for Pets Double Door iCrate Starter Kit, 42-inch Dog Crate Bundle for Large Dogs, Includes Cage, Pet Bed, 2 Bowls and Privacy Cover customer photo 2

For Whom This Crate Is Good

It is perfect for new dog owners who want a turnkey setup. The privacy cover is great for crate-training puppies who need a den-like environment. Households with large breed puppies will appreciate the included divider panel and full accessory kit.

For Whom This Crate Falls Short

The cover is on the thinner side, so determined chewers may tear it. The Snap’y Fit bowls work best when the crate is stationary rather than being moved around. If you already own a bed and bowls, you can save money by buying the standard 42-inch crate alone.

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5. Amazon Basics 36-Inch Foldable Wire Crate – Best Affordable Wire Crate

BEST UNDER $60

Pros

  • Very sturdy wire construction
  • Easy 3-point door opener handle
  • No assembly required
  • Folds flat for storage
  • Double door design
  • Great value price point
  • Removable tray is easy to clean

Cons

  • Heavy and awkward to move
  • Some units arrive with bent wires
  • Limited instructions
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When I needed a wire crate for a short-term foster without spending a fortune, I tried this Amazon Basics model. It came in at under $60 with Prime shipping and was ready to use the moment I unfolded it. There is genuinely no assembly required. You pull it out of the box, lift the walls, and latch them in place.

The 3-point door handle is a thoughtful touch. Instead of fiddling with two slide bolts, you lift one handle and the door swings open. The divider panel lets you adjust the interior space for a puppy or a full-grown dog, and the removable base tray makes cleanup easy.

Amazon Basics Portable, Easy to Assemble, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Double Door, Divider Panel, Handle, 36

At 22 pounds, it is heavier than it looks, but the top handle lets you carry it like a suitcase when folded. For anyone searching for a budget-friendly addition to a multi-dog household, this Amazon Basics crate is one of the best dog crates in its price range.

Amazon Basics Portable, Easy to Assemble, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Double Door, Divider Panel, Handle, 36

For Whom This Crate Is Good

It is ideal for dog owners who want a no-fuss wire crate at a friendly price. The double door design is helpful in tight spaces. It works well for medium dogs up to around 70 pounds and for households that need a backup crate for fosters or boarding.

For Whom This Crate Falls Short

It is not a crate for heavy chewers or anxious dogs. The wire gauge is lighter than the MidWest or heavy-duty steel options, so a determined dog can bend it. A few buyers have reported shipping damage, so inspect the crate before use.

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6. Amazon Basics 42-Inch Single Door Wire Crate – Best Large Breed Value

BEST LARGE VALUE
Amazon Basics Durable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Single Door, Divider Panel, 42 x 28 x 30 in, Black

Amazon Basics Durable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Single Door, Divider Panel, 42 x 28 x 30 in, Black

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 / 5

42-inch wire crate

Single door design

Removable tray and divider

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Pros

  • Sturdy and durable metal construction
  • Easy to set up and folds flat
  • Divider panel for adjustable space
  • Removable tray for easy cleaning
  • Great value for the price
  • Top handle for carrying

Cons

  • Single door only
  • Plastic tray may have gaps on some sides
  • Handle clips on loosely
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The 42-inch version of the Amazon Basics crate is the answer for anyone who needs a large breed wire crate without paying a premium price. It fits dogs up to about 90 pounds, includes a divider panel, and folds flat for storage. I have had this crate set up in my garage for six months and counting.

Setup is genuinely quick. You unfold the crate, secure the walls, slide in the tray, and add the divider. The whole process takes about three minutes. The single door is large enough to fit a 90-pound dog comfortably, and the slide-bolt latch is reliable.

Amazon Basics Durable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Single Door, Divider Panel, 42 x 28 x 30 in, Black customer photo 1

Where this crate really shines is value. Compared to the MidWest 42-inch, you save a few dollars and get a nearly identical feature set. For first-time crate owners or anyone adding a second crate to a multi-dog home, this Amazon Basics model is one of the best dog crates for the price.

Amazon Basics Durable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Single Door, Divider Panel, 42 x 28 x 30 in, Black customer photo 2

For Whom This Crate Is Good

It is great for large breed dogs in the 70 to 90 pound range. Owners who want a single, dependable crate without paying for premium features will appreciate the value. The folding design makes it easy to store when not in use.

For Whom This Crate Falls Short

The single door design can be limiting in tight spaces, so corner placement is sometimes tricky. The plastic tray can leave small gaps on the sides, which may let in spilled water. The top handle does not lock as securely as the MidWest version.

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7. LEMBERI 48-Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate – Best for Escape Artists

BEST FOR ESCAPE ARTISTS
LEMBERI 48″ Heavy Duty Dog Crate for Large Dogs, Black

LEMBERI 48″ Heavy Duty Dog Crate for Large Dogs, Black

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 / 5

48-inch heavy-duty cage

20-gauge steel frame

Lockable wheels and dual doors

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Pros

  • Extremely sturdy and escape-proof
  • Ideal for powerful breeds and high-anxiety pets
  • Dual doors with front and top access
  • Lockable wheels for easy mobility
  • Slide-out leak-proof plastic tray
  • 500 lb floor capacity
  • 20-gauge steel with reinforced tubes

Cons

  • Very heavy at 81.8 lbs
  • Only 2 of 4 wheels lock
  • Some concerns about wheel durability
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My high-anxiety shepherd mix, Bolt, has bent three wire crates in his lifetime. He is the dog who tests every latch, every weld, every weak point. So when I needed a crate he could not defeat, I turned to the LEMBERI 48-inch heavy-duty model. After four months of daily use, he has not bent a single wire.

The build is genuinely heavy-duty. The 20-gauge steel frame with 0.8-inch reinforced tubes feels closer to a piece of industrial furniture than a typical dog crate. The dual doors (front and top skylight) are a thoughtful combination. The top door is perfect for placing a treat inside or for letting a nervous dog out without forcing them through a narrow front opening.

LEMBERI 48

The wheels are a real convenience. I can roll the crate from the living room to the garage without lifting 81 pounds of steel. Two of the four wheels lock, which is enough to keep the crate stationary on hardwood floors. For owners of powerful breeds, separation anxiety dogs, or dogs who have outsmarted weaker crates, this is one of the best dog crates for serious containment.

LEMBERI 48

For Whom This Crate Is Good

It is built for dogs who have destroyed or escaped other crates. Powerful breeds like Pit Bulls, Huskies, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds will be safely contained. The dual doors and lockable wheels make it a great choice for owners who need both security and flexibility.

For Whom This Crate Falls Short

At 81.8 pounds, this is not a crate for casual users. The price is higher than wire crates, and the size takes up significant space. A few users have reported wheel quality issues over time, so check the wheels periodically.

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8. BOLDBONE 48-Inch Heavy Duty Indestructible Crate – Best for Anxious Dogs

BEST FOR ANXIETY

Pros

  • Indestructible and escape-proof
  • Easy to assemble under 10 minutes
  • Sturdy for large dogs
  • Lockable wheels for mobility
  • Top and front door access
  • Non-toxic hammer-tone coating
  • 1-year warranty

Cons

  • Divider not included with some versions
  • Some complaints about plastic pan quality
  • Takes up significant space
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BOLDBONE’s 48-inch heavy-duty crate is the brand’s flagship for anxious dogs, and it shows in the details. The 20-gauge steel frame is reinforced with 0.5-inch diameter steel tubes. The double slide bolt latches are stronger than what you find on most wire crates. The top-opening door is something I wish more crates had.

I tested this crate with Bolt as well, and the top door quickly became my favorite feature. Instead of coaxing a nervous dog out through a front door, I can lift the top panel and let him come out on his own terms. That small change made a big difference in his crate comfort.

BOLDBONE 48 inch Heavy Duty Indestructible and Escape-Proof Dog Crate Cage Kennel for Large Dogs, High Anxiety Dog Crate with Removable Wire Trays and Wheels, Extra Large XL XXL, Black customer photo 1

Assembly was under 10 minutes with a single screwdriver. The hammer-tone coating is non-toxic and resistant to rust, which matters for households with kids who sometimes touch the crate. The wheels lock securely, and the floor grate supports up to 500 pounds. For owners of anxious dogs who want indestructible construction without sacrificing accessibility, this is one of the best dog crates available.

BOLDBONE 48 inch Heavy Duty Indestructible and Escape-Proof Dog Crate Cage Kennel for Large Dogs, High Anxiety Dog Crate with Removable Wire Trays and Wheels, Extra Large XL XXL, Black customer photo 2

For Whom This Crate Is Good

It is ideal for separation anxiety dogs and dogs who escape weaker crates. The top door is great for injured or senior dogs who struggle with front-loading. Owners who want an easy-to-assemble, heavy-duty crate will appreciate the straightforward setup.

For Whom This Crate Falls Short

Some versions do not include a divider panel, so check the listing carefully. The plastic pan quality is a recurring complaint in reviews, and you may want to upgrade to a thicker tray. The 48-inch footprint takes up significant space, so measure your room before ordering.

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9. New World by MidWest 42-Inch Single Door Crate – Best No-Frills Crate

BEST NO-FRILLS
New World by Midwest 42-Inch Single Door Crate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs

New World by Midwest 42-Inch Single Door Crate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 / 5

42-inch single door crate

Sturdy wire build

Supports 71-90 lb dogs

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Pros

  • Sturdy metal wire construction
  • Easy to fold and store
  • Leak-proof tray included
  • Good ventilation and visibility
  • Ideal for 71-90 lb dogs
  • Easy to clean
  • Family-owned company with 100+ years experience

Cons

  • Single door only
  • Divider panel not included
  • Currently out of stock on some listings
  • May be difficult to assemble alone
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The New World by MidWest is the brand’s budget-friendly sister to the iCrate, and for a basic wire crate, it does its job well. I have had this crate set up as a secondary space in my laundry room for over a year. The metal wire is sturdy, the slide-bolt latch is reliable, and the e-coat finish has not rusted despite exposure to humid air.

What you skip versus the iCrate is the divider panel and the Paw Block safety latch. If you do not need to section off space for a puppy, those are minor trade-offs for the more accessible price point. The 56,000+ reviews back up the durability claim. For most buyers, this is one of the best dog crates for everyday use.

New World by Midwest 42-Inch Single Door Crate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs | Folding Dog Crate, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latch, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble customer photo 1

The single door is wide enough for a 90-pound dog to enter comfortably. The leak-proof tray catches everything, and the rubber feet protect hardwood floors from scratches. If you already have a divider panel from another crate or do not need one, the New World is a strong value pick.

New World by Midwest 42-Inch Single Door Crate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs | Folding Dog Crate, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latch, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble customer photo 2

For Whom This Crate Is Good

It is a great choice for dog owners who want a basic, reliable wire crate without extras. The single door design is simpler to operate than double door models. Owners with multiple crates in rotation will appreciate the value.

For Whom This Crate Falls Short

It does not include a divider panel, so puppy owners will need to buy one separately. The single door design can be limiting in tight spaces. Some listings have been temporarily out of stock, so check availability before ordering.

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10. Petmate Vari Dog Kennel 36-Inch – Best Airline-Friendly Plastic Crate

BEST AIRLINE-FRIENDLY
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel, Carrier for Large Dogs, 36in, Taupe and Black

Petmate Vari Dog Kennel, Carrier for Large Dogs, 36in, Taupe and Black

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 / 5

36-inch plastic kennel

Airline compliant

Four-sided ventilation

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Pros

  • Airline-friendly design
  • Durable plastic construction
  • Easy to clean and wipe down
  • Four-sided ventilation
  • Good for home and travel
  • Stay-dry moat for leak containment
  • Recycled plastic material

Cons

  • Interior measurements may be narrower than stated
  • Some sizes have thinner plastic
  • Bedding may not fit well in some sizes
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For air travel or any situation where a wire crate is impractical, the Petmate Vari Kennel is the answer. I have used this exact 36-inch model for two cross-country flights with a 50-pound border collie. It is airline-friendly, sturdy enough for cargo handling, and easy to wipe clean after the trip.

The four-sided ventilation is a real benefit during warm weather. Air circulates from every side, which keeps dogs cooler than wire crates that only ventilate through the front and sides. The stay-dry moat around the perimeter is a thoughtful detail that contains leaks and keeps your car or hotel floor dry.

Petmate Vari Dog Kennel, Carrier for Large Dogs, 36in, Taupe and Black | Airline Friendly and Made of Durable Plastic, This Pet Crate Works Great for Home and Travel customer photo 1

Assembly takes about 10 minutes with the included thumbscrews. The two halves snap together securely, and the tamper-proof holes let you add zip ties for extra security at airports. If you travel with your dog by air or just want a sturdy plastic crate for home use, this is one of the best dog crates in the plastic category.

Petmate Vari Dog Kennel, Carrier for Large Dogs, 36in, Taupe and Black | Airline Friendly and Made of Durable Plastic, This Pet Crate Works Great for Home and Travel customer photo 2

For Whom This Crate Is Good

It is ideal for dog owners who travel by air and need an airline-compliant crate. The durable plastic construction works well for car travel, vet visits, and boarding. The four-sided ventilation is great for warm climates and summer travel.

For Whom This Crate Falls Short

The interior measurements can feel narrower than the listed dimensions, so size up if your dog is between sizes. The plastic is thinner than premium rotomolded crates, so it is not as crash-tested. Bedding may not fit well in some sizes, so test before travel.

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How to Choose the Best Dog Crate for Your Dog

Choosing the right dog crate is less about brand loyalty and more about matching the crate to your dog’s specific needs. After testing all 10 of these crates, I have a clear set of rules I follow. The factors below will help you pick the best dog crate for your situation, whether you have a 10-pound puppy or a 110-pound working breed.

Sizing Your Dog Crate Correctly

The right crate size lets your dog stand up without crouching, turn around without touching the walls, and lie down with paws extended. For puppies, the divider panel is essential. Buy the size that fits your dog’s adult weight and use the divider to shrink the space while they grow. Wire crate manufacturers typically provide a weight range (like 41-70 lbs) that maps to the interior dimensions. Measure your dog from nose to tail and from floor to top of head, then add 2-4 inches to both numbers for the right fit.

Wire Crate vs Plastic vs Heavy-Duty Steel

Wire crates are the most popular because they offer great ventilation, fold flat for storage, and cost less. They are ideal for home use and crate training. Plastic crates are better for air travel and car trips because they enclose the dog more securely. Heavy-duty steel crates are built for anxious dogs, escape artists, and powerful breeds who bend standard wire. Price tracks with material: wire is most affordable, plastic is mid-range, and heavy-duty steel is the highest investment.

Crash-Tested vs Standard Crates

The Center for Pet Safety has tested dozens of crates specifically for car use. Most wire and plastic crates are not crash-tested, which means they can fail in a real accident. If you travel with your dog in the car regularly, look for crates that have passed CPS testing, such as the Gunner G1 or RuffLand Kennels. These rotomolded plastic crates have aluminum frames and secure tie-down points that keep your dog safer in a collision. For occasional car rides, a standard crate with a seatbelt tether is usually sufficient.

Best Crate Type by Use Case

For puppies, a wire crate with a divider panel is your best friend. For anxious dogs, a heavy-duty steel crate or a covered wire crate that creates a den-like feel will help. For car travel, a crash-tested plastic crate is the safest choice. For air travel, an airline-compliant plastic kennel is required. For large breeds, a sturdy 42-inch or 48-inch wire crate is the most common pick. For escape artists, only heavy-duty steel will hold up. Match the crate type to your use case, and you will end up with one of the best dog crates for your specific situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best brand of dog crate?

MidWest Homes for Pets is widely considered the best overall dog crate brand thanks to its 80,000+ reviews, durable wire construction, and reliable slide-bolt latches. For anxious dogs and escape artists, LEMBERI and BOLDBONE offer heavy-duty steel options. For travel, Petmate and Diggs are top picks.

What kind of crate is best for a dog?

The best crate type depends on your dog’s needs. Wire crates are ideal for home use and crate training because of their ventilation and folding design. Plastic crates work best for air travel and car rides. Heavy-duty steel crates are necessary for anxious dogs and powerful breeds who escape standard wire crates.

Do dogs prefer open or closed crates?

Most dogs prefer crates that feel den-like, with some cover on the sides. A privacy cover or blanket over part of a wire crate can help anxious dogs settle. Plastic crates naturally feel more enclosed and are often preferred for travel. The key is letting your dog choose: leave the door open and see which crate they walk into voluntarily.

Do vets recommend dog crates?

Yes, most veterinarians recommend crate training as a safe way to housetrain puppies, manage anxiety, and provide a secure space for travel. The American Kennel Club and most veterinary behaviorists support crate use when introduced positively. The crate should never be used as punishment, and dogs should have plenty of time outside the crate for exercise and socialization.

Where should a new dog sleep the first night?

Place the crate in your bedroom for the first few nights so your new dog can hear your breathing and feel secure. Many new owners set up the crate next to the bed with a favorite blanket and a soft bed. After a week or two, you can gradually move the crate to its permanent location. Never place a new puppy in a crate far away from you on the first night, as it can increase anxiety and slow bonding.

Our Final Verdict on the Best Dog Crates of 2026

After testing 10 of the best dog crates on the market, I keep coming back to the MidWest 42-Inch Single Door iCrate as my top pick for most households. It has the reviews, the build quality, and the value that makes it the easiest recommendation. For owners of escape artists and anxious dogs, the LEMBERI 48-Inch Heavy Duty Crate delivers the security you need. For new dog owners who want a turnkey setup, the MidWest Starter Kit is hard to beat.

The best dog crate for you depends on your dog’s size, temperament, and lifestyle. Match the crate to your dog’s needs, follow the sizing guidelines above, and you will end up with a crate that lasts for years. Whichever model you choose from this list, you are getting one of the best dog crates your money can buy in 2026.

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