11 Best Dog Crates of 2026 – Expert Picks
Your dog deserves a safe and comfortable crate for training, travel, or quiet time. Our 2026 guide evaluates the top models for durability, security, and ease of use.
By Pets Viora Editorial Team
Updated October 2, 2026
Finding a secure, comfortable, and appropriate dog crate can be a cornerstone of responsible pet ownership, whether for training, travel, or providing a safe den. With so many options available, from heavy-duty metal wire crates to portable soft-sided designs, selecting the right one for your dog’s size, temperament, and your lifestyle requires careful consideration. In this comprehensive guide, we’ve analyzed 11 of the top-rated best dog crates on the market for November 2026. We’ve compared specifications, safety features, and owner feedback to provide you with a clear, data-driven overview. For related advice on keeping your pet safe and contained at home, check out our guide on the best extra tall dog gates.
| Award | Product | Viora Score About Viora ScoreThe Viora Score is our own 0–10 rating based on performance, safety, durability, pet comfort, and value. It reflects independent research and is never influenced by brands or affiliate commissions. Learn more › | |
|---|---|---|---|
Midwest iCrate 30-Inch Single Door Dog Crate
|
Buy | ||
| Best Overall |
Midwest iCrate 1536DDU 36-Inch Double Door Crate
|
8.9/10 | Buy |
| Best Value |
Midwest iCrate 1542U 42-Inch Dog Crate
|
8.9/10 | Buy |
Midwest iCrate 1536U 36-Inch Dog Crate
|
8.9/10 | Buy | |
Midwest iCrate 1548U 48-Inch Single Door Dog Crate
|
Buy | ||
| Best Premium |
Midwest iCrate 1542DDU 42-Inch Double Door Crate
|
8.9/10 | Buy |
Zomisia 36-Inch Collapsible Dog Crate
|
8.8/10 | Buy | |
GardnerPet G1 Collapsible 36-Inch Dog Crate
|
Buy | ||
FDW 48-Inch Foldable Metal Dog Crate
|
Buy | ||
| Best Budget |
AmazonBasics 12002-30-APL Medium Portable Soft Dog
|
8.3/10 | Buy |
XVISHX KM-XGL-01 36-Inch Dog Crate
|
7.8/10 | Buy |
Midwest iCrate 30-Inch Single Door Dog Crate
This foldable metal crate provides a secure and portable den for medium dogs up to 40 pounds. Its updated safety features, including a Paw Block latch and divider panel, aim to support crate training from puppyhood. The tool-free setup and durable, rust-resistant construction make it a practical choice for home use or travel.
Pros
- Enhanced security with a patented Paw Block and locking slide-bolt latch.
- Includes a divider panel to adjust the crate size as a puppy grows.
- Tool-free folding design for easy portability and storage.
- Durable metal construction with a rust-resistant e-coat finish.
- Comes with a leak-proof pan, rubber floor protectors, and a carrying handle.
Cons
- Dogs near the 40-pound upper weight limit may find it snug, suggesting a size-up for optimal comfort.
Midwest iCrate 1536DDU 36-Inch Double Door Crate
This durable, foldable wire crate provides a secure and comfortable space for medium to large dogs up to 70 lbs. Its two-door design and included divider panel offer flexible placement and adjust to grow with a puppy. Enhanced security latches, a leak-proof tray, and easy, tool-free setup make it a practical choice for home use and travel.
Pros
- Double-door design allows for flexible placement in corners or against walls.
- Includes a divider panel to adjust the crate size as a puppy grows.
- Enhanced safety features include a Paw Block and secure slide-bolt latches.
- Folds flat without tools for convenient storage and transport.
- Durable, rust-resistant metal construction with a removable, leak-proof tray.
Cons
- Some owners of dogs near the 70 lb upper limit recommend sizing up for more comfort.
- Weighs 22 pounds, which may be heavy for frequent carrying by some users.
Midwest iCrate 1542U 42-Inch Dog Crate
A durable, single-door wire crate designed for large breeds up to 90 pounds. It features a secure latch with a Paw Block, a divider panel for training puppies, and folds flat without tools for travel and storage.
Pros
- Includes a divider panel to adjust the crate size as a puppy grows
- Features a secure slide-bolt latch with a patented Paw Block to prevent escapes
- Folds flat without tools for easy portability and storage
- Comes with a durable, leak-proof plastic tray for easy cleanup
- Rubber feet help protect floors from scratches
Cons
- At 35 pounds, it is relatively heavy for a portable crate
- For dogs at the upper end of the 71-90 lb range, the space may be snug; the manufacturer suggests sizing up
Midwest iCrate 1536U 36-Inch Dog Crate
This folding wire crate offers a secure, portable space for medium to large dogs up to 70 pounds. Enhanced safety features like a Paw Block and locking slide-bolt latches aim to prevent escapes, while the included divider panel helps with crate training a growing puppy.
Pros
- Includes a divider panel for adjusting size as a puppy grows
- Features a secure Paw Block and locking slide-bolt latches to prevent escapes
- Folds flat without tools for easy transport and storage
- Comes with a durable, leak-proof plastic tray for easy cleanup
- Backed by a 1-year manufacturer's warranty and US-based customer service
Cons
- At 22 pounds, it may be somewhat heavy for frequent carrying
- Dogs near the 70-pound upper weight limit might find it cramped, requiring a size-up
Midwest iCrate 1548U 48-Inch Single Door Dog Crate
A durable, foldable wire crate designed for extra-large dogs up to 110 lbs, featuring enhanced security latches and a divider panel for crate training. Its tool-free setup, portable design, and leak-proof pan make it a practical choice for home use and travel.
Pros
- Enhanced safety features like a patented Paw Block and locking slide-bolt latches.
- Includes a divider panel to adjust the crate size as a puppy grows.
- Folds flat without tools for easy storage and transport.
- Comes with a durable, leak-proof pan and protective rubber feet.
- Backed by a 1-year manufacturer warranty and US-based customer service.
Cons
- For dogs near the 110 lb upper limit, the brand suggests sizing up to a larger model for optimal comfort.
- The assembly instructions or specific material thickness for the metal wire are not detailed in the provided specifications.
Midwest iCrate 1542DDU 42-Inch Double Door Crate
This durable, dual-door metal crate offers secure containment for large breeds. Its standout feature is the included divider panel, allowing the crate to grow with a puppy, and it folds flat for travel and storage without tools.
Pros
- Includes a divider panel for use from puppyhood to adulthood
- Features two doors for flexible placement in a home
- Folds flat without tools for easy transport and storage
- Comes with a leak-proof pan and protective rubber feet
- Patented Paw Block and secure latches enhance safety
Cons
- At 37 pounds, it is heavy to move when assembled
- Some dogs near the upper 90-pound weight limit may need a larger size
Zomisia 36-Inch Collapsible Dog Crate
This heavy-duty, foldable crate is designed for versatile use at home or on the go, offering a secure space for medium to large dogs. Its easy setup and wheels make repositioning simple, though it's best for calm pets.
Pros
- Collapsible, space-saving design for easy storage
- Includes wheels and handles for effortless mobility
- No-tool assembly and secure squeeze-latch locks
- Sturdy construction suitable for large, docile dogs up to 80 lbs
- Highly rated by customers for ease of use and build quality
Cons
- Not recommended for highly biting or hyperactive dogs
- Lack of included instructions for breaking down the crate
GardnerPet G1 Collapsible 36-Inch Dog Crate
A foldable, hard-sided crate designed for medium to large dogs, featuring tool-free assembly and wheels for easy transport. Its space-saving design makes it a versatile option for indoor, outdoor, and travel use.
Pros
- No-tool, one-piece assembly sets up and folds down in seconds.
- Collapsible design and built-in wheels enhance portability and storage.
- Squeeze-latch door locks are secure yet easy for owners to operate.
- Rounded corners and safe lock design aim to prevent pet and owner injury.
- Made from a blend of PE, polypropylene, and recycled metal for durability.
Cons
- The specified weight of 27.21 pounds may be heavy for some to lift without the wheels.
- Requires careful attention during setup to ensure panels are correctly snapped and locked to avoid pinching.
FDW 48-Inch Foldable Metal Dog Crate
A heavy-duty, foldable crate designed for large to giant dogs, offering a secure space for training or travel. Its double-door design and removable leak-proof tray aim to provide convenience for pet owners needing flexible access and easy cleanup.
Pros
- Durable, rust-resistant metal construction suitable for energetic chewers.
- Features both a front and side door for flexible placement and access.
- Includes a removable, leak-proof plastic tray for simplified cleanup.
- Folds down completely for convenient storage and transportation.
Cons
- The product has not yet accumulated verified customer reviews, which is common for new listings.
- The 90-day warranty may be considered short for a product in this category.
AmazonBasics 12002-30-APL Medium Portable Soft Dog
This collapsible soft-sided kennel is designed for easy travel, setting up and folding flat without tools. Its dual-door design and mesh panels offer convenient access and ventilation for a medium-sized dog.
Pros
- Collapses flat for easy portability and storage
- Sets up quickly without requiring tools
- Features both a top and front door for easy loading
- Provides ventilation on all four sides via mesh windows
- Lightweight yet sturdy polyester and frame construction
Cons
- The soft-sided design may not be suitable for dogs that are heavy chewers or escape artists
- The zipper closures, while secure, could be a point of failure if a dog persistently paws at them
XVISHX KM-XGL-01 36-Inch Dog Crate
This collapsible soft-sided crate is designed as a portable home base for medium to large dogs. Its fabric-and-mesh construction prioritizes ventilation and easy transport, making it a contender for car trips or multi-room use.
Pros
- Lightweight and highly portable at only 5 pounds, easy for one person to carry and set up.
- Breathable mesh and a 2-door design offer good airflow and multiple entry/exit options.
- Fabric corners are reinforced with leather to help deter scratching, and the frame is described as sturdy in some reviews.
- Waterproof Oxford cloth material simplifies cleanup.
Cons
- Some users reported dogs can manipulate the zippers to escape.
- The internal frame and locking lugs are exposed, posing a potential chewing hazard for determined dogs.
- Does not include a pad or mat for the interior floor.
Best Dog Crates Buying Guide for 2026
1. Size and Breed Suitability
The most critical factor is choosing a crate that fits your dog comfortably. A crate that’s too small is inhumane, while one that’s excessively large can undermine house-training efforts for puppies. Measure your dog’s length (from nose to tail base) and height (from floor to top of head or ears). The crate should be long enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down stretched out. Many crates, like the various MidWest iCrate models, come with size guidelines based on weight ranges and breed examples. Always consider your dog’s adult size when purchasing for a puppy, and look for models that include a divider panel to adjust the space as they grow.
2. Construction Material and Durability
The material dictates the crate’s strength, security, and appropriate use case. Heavy-gauge metal wire crates, such as the MidWest iCrate series and the FDW foldable model, offer maximum security and ventilation for strong chewers or dogs who may try to escape. They feature rust-resistant coatings and should have secure, paw-block latches. Hard plastic and metal wire combination crates, like the ZOMISIA model, provide a more den-like feel and are often easier to clean. Soft-sided fabric crates, exemplified by the AmazonBasics and XVISHX options, are lightweight and portable but are only suitable for well-trained, non-destructive dogs who don’t scratch or chew at their enclosure.
3. Door Configuration and Security
The number and placement of doors affect both convenience and your dog’s sense of security. Single-door crates are common and sufficient for most home placements. Double-door crates, with a front and a side door, offer superior flexibility. They make it easier to position the crate in a corner or against a wall without blocking access and can aid in loading a reluctant pet. Regardless of the number, inspect the latching mechanism. Look for slide-bolt latches with locking tips or squeeze latches that are easy for you to operate but impossible for a clever dog to nose open. The security of the latch is paramount for both containment and pet safety.
4. Portability and Storage
Consider how often you’ll need to move or store the crate. Traditional metal wire crates often fold flat but can be heavy and awkward to carry. Newer designs prioritize true portability. The GardnerPet and ZOMISIA crates feature fold-flat designs combined with wheels and handles, making them easy to move from room to car. Soft-sided crates like the AmazonBasics option are the ultimate in portability, folding into a slim package ideal for travel or apartment living. If space is limited, a crate that collapses completely when not in use is a significant advantage.
5. Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
A crate that’s difficult to clean will quickly become unpleasant. Metal wire and hard plastic crates almost universally include a removable, leak-proof plastic tray at the bottom. This tray should slide out easily for wiping or washing. Fabric crates pose a greater challenge; look for models with removable, machine-washable liner pads or those made from materials that can be spot-cleaned effectively. Ventilation is also part of maintenance; good airflow through mesh panels or wire sides helps control odors and keeps your pet comfortable.
6. Additional Features for Comfort and Training
Some features can greatly enhance the crate experience for your dog. A divider panel, included with many wire crates, is invaluable for puppy training, allowing the crate to “grow” with your pet. Rubber feet protect your floors from scratches. Rounded corners, both inside and out, prevent injuries from sharp edges. For travel, secure anchoring points or compatibility with vehicle seat belts are crucial. Consider if you want to add a comfortable crate mat, but ensure it’s durable and, if needed, chew-resistant.
Why You Should Trust Us
Our recommendations are based on a rigorous, multi-faceted research process designed to provide you with objective and reliable information. We began by compiling a list of top-selling and highly-rated best dog crates from major retailers. Our team then conducted a deep-dive comparison of specifications, including construction materials, dimensions, weight limits, security features, and included accessories. We scrutinized manufacturer safety information, checked for any product recalls, and analyzed thousands of data points from verified owner reviews across multiple platforms. This allows us to identify common praises, such as durability and ease of assembly, as well as recurring concerns. Finally, each product is scored against our clearly defined buying criteria outlined above. Our goal is to translate complex product data into clear, actionable insights to help you make the best choice for your furry family member.
Final Thoughts
After evaluating 11 of the top contenders, several products stand out for specific needs. For a best overall choice that balances security, value, and trusted brand reputation, the MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate series, particularly the double-door models, is exceptionally hard to beat. They offer robust construction, important safety features like the Paw Block latch, and include a divider panel for growing puppies.
If maximum portability is your priority for car trips or small living spaces, the AmazonBasics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate provides an incredibly lightweight and compact solution for trained, medium-sized dogs. For those seeking a hybrid option that offers more security than a soft crate with better portability than a traditional wire crate, the ZOMISIA or GardnerPet collapsible crates with wheels are excellent modern alternatives, functioning well as both a home base and a travel crate.
Remember, the “best” crate is the one that fits your dog’s size and behavior while seamlessly integrating into your daily life. A well-chosen crate becomes a safe haven for your pet, aiding in training and providing peace of mind for you, whether you’re at home or on the go. For more insights on creating a pet-friendly home, explore our other guides in the Dogs category.
FAQs
What size best dog crates do I need for my dog?
Your dog should be able to stand up without crouching, turn around comfortably, and lie down stretched out inside the crate. Measure your dog’s length and height, then add a few inches. Most manufacturers provide sizing charts based on weight and breed examples. When in doubt, or if your dog is still growing, choose a larger crate with an adjustable divider panel.
Are wire crates or plastic/soft-sided crates better?
It depends on your dog and the use case. Wire crates offer superior ventilation, visibility, and are generally more secure for dogs who chew or scratch. Plastic and soft-sided crates are lighter, more portable, and can feel more den-like, but they are only suitable for calm, well-trained pets who are not destructive.
How do I introduce my dog to a new crate?
Make the crate a positive space. Start by leaving the door open and placing treats, meals, and favorite toys inside. Never force your dog in or use the crate for punishment. Encourage them to enter voluntarily and gradually increase the duration the door is closed while you are present. Patience and positive reinforcement are key to successful crate training.
Can I use a best dog crates for house training a puppy?
Yes, crates are a highly effective tool for house training. Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area. The crate should be just large enough for the puppy to stand, turn, and lie down. Using a divider panel in a larger crate helps create the right-sized space and can be expanded as the puppy grows and gains bladder control.
Is it safe to leave my dog in a crate while I’m at work?
This depends on the dog’s age, temperament, and the duration. Puppies under six months cannot physically hold their bladder for a full workday and should not be crated for more than a few hours at a time. Adult dogs can typically tolerate longer periods, but it’s essential they have had positive crate training, the crate is the correct size, and they receive adequate exercise and bathroom breaks before and after crating. Always consult with your veterinarian or a professional trainer for advice specific to your pet’s needs.
About the author
The Pets Viora Editorial Team researches, writes, fact-checks, and updates every buying guide on Pets Viora. We cover products for dogs, cats, fish, birds, reptiles, small pets, horses, and backyard poultry, and every guide starts with the animal and the problem it needs to solve, not with a best-seller list. Our recommendations are based on product specifications and sizing, safety information and recalls, and recurring patterns in feedback from real owners across multiple sources, scored against the criteria published on our How We Rank page. Brands can't pay for placement, and our guides are general information, not veterinary advice. Questions, corrections, or product suggestions: [email protected]