Last updated on July 6th, 2026 at 06:42 am
Quick Answer: Best Dog Crates 2026
Our top pick for most dogs is the MidWest iCrate Double Door offering the best balance of durability, value, and features. For frequent travelers, choose the EliteField Soft-Sided Crate. Strong chewers need the ProSelect Empire Heavy-Duty crate. Read on for the full comparison.
A dog crate is one of the most important investments you can make for your pet’s safety and your peace of mind. Whether you’re house training a puppy, traveling with your dog, or need a safe space for your pet, the right crate makes all the difference.
We’ve reviewed and compared the top dog crates to help you choose the best one for your furry friend. Dog crates serve multiple purposes beyond just containment — they provide a safe den-like space, aid in house training, prevent destructive behavior, and make travel safer.
Why Dog Crates Are Essential
Crates are not just about confinement — they’re about providing a safe, comfortable space that your dog can call their own:
- House training: Dogs naturally avoid soiling their den, making crates invaluable for potty training
- Safety: Keeps your dog safe when you can’t supervise them
- Travel: Essential for car travel and airline transport
- Anxiety reduction: Many dogs feel secure in their crate
- Prevents destruction: Stops chewing and other destructive behaviors when unsupervised
Top 5 Dog Crates at a Glance
| Product | Type | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MidWest iCrate | Wire | Overall Best | 9.5/10 | $50-90 |
| EliteField Soft Crate | Soft-Sided | Travel | 9.2/10 | $40-70 |
| ProSelect Empire | Heavy-Duty Wire | Strong Chewers | 9.0/10 | $150-250 |
| MidWest Life Stages | Wire | Puppies | 8.8/10 | $60-100 |
| AmazonBasics Plastic | Plastic | Airline Travel | 8.5/10 | $40-80 |
1. MidWest iCrate Double Door – Best Overall
The MidWest iCrate is the gold standard of dog crates. It’s durable, easy to assemble, and comes with everything you need for crate training.
Key Features
- Double door design for easy access from multiple angles
- Removable divider panel for puppy training
- Easy-fold design for storage and transport
- Composite plastic pan for easy cleaning
- Slide-bolt latches for security
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Affordable, durable, easy to assemble, includes divider, foldable, good ventilation
- Cons: Wire spacing may be too wide for very small dogs, can be noisy on hard floors
2. EliteField Soft-Sided Crate – Best for Travel
Lightweight, foldable, and airline-approved for most carriers, the EliteField Soft-Sided Crate is perfect for road trips and camping.
Why We Recommend It
- Lightweight and portable
- Folds flat in seconds
- Three mesh windows for ventilation
- Machine-washable cover
- Side storage pocket
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Very portable, easy setup, comfortable, good ventilation
- Cons: Not for chewers, less secure than wire
3. ProSelect Empire Heavy-Duty – Best for Strong Chewers
For powerful dogs who can escape standard crates, the ProSelect Empire offers heavy-gauge steel construction that is virtually indestructible.
Highlights
- Heavy-duty 22-gauge steel
- Half-inch diameter steel tubes
- Non-toxic powder-coated finish
- Removable steel floor grate
- 4 locking casters
4. MidWest Life Stages – Best for Puppies
Designed for growing puppies, this crate includes a divider that adjusts as your puppy grows.
Puppy-Friendly Features
- Adjustable divider panel
- Leak-proof pan
- Rubber feet to protect floors
- Beginner-friendly setup
5. AmazonBasics Plastic – Best for Airline Travel
For air travel, you need a sturdy plastic crate that meets airline requirements.
Airline Features
- Meets most airline requirements
- Secure spring-loaded latch
- Well-ventilated on all sides
- Top and side doors for easy access
Types of Dog Crates
Wire Crates: Excellent ventilation and visibility. Easy to clean and foldable. Best for home use and house training.
Soft-Sided Crates: Lightweight and portable. Made from fabric over a metal frame. Best for travel and camping.
Plastic Crates: Hard plastic with metal doors. Sturdy and airline-approved. Best for air travel.
Heavy-Duty Crates: Extra-strong wire or steel. Best for large breeds and strong chewers.
How to Choose the Right Crate Size
Measure your dog from nose to tail base and add 2-4 inches for length. For height, measure from top of head to floor and add 2-3 inches.
| Dog Size | Weight | Crate Size |
|---|---|---|
| Extra Small | Under 10 lbs | 24 inches |
| Small | 11-25 lbs | 30 inches |
| Medium | 26-40 lbs | 36 inches |
| Large | 41-70 lbs | 42 inches |
| Extra Large | 71-90 lbs | 48 inches |
| XXL | Over 90 lbs | 54 inches |
Crate Training Tips
Introduce the crate gradually with treats and positive associations. Never use the crate as punishment. Start with short periods (5-10 minutes) and gradually increase.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can a dog stay in a crate?
Adult dogs: 4-6 hours maximum. Puppies: 1 hour per month of age. Never leave a dog in a crate for more than 8 hours.
Should I cover the crate?
Some dogs prefer a covered crate. Others feel anxious. Test both to see what your dog prefers.
Can I use a crate for multiple dogs?
No. Each dog should have their own crate to avoid resource guarding and stress.
Conclusion
The best dog crate depends on your dog’s size, temperament, and lifestyle. Our top pick, the MidWest iCrate, offers the best value for most dog owners. For travel, consider the EliteField Soft-Sided Crate.
