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Best Dog Crate in 2025

as analyzed by

A dog crate serves multiple crucial functions, providing a safe and secure space for your canine companion while aiding in training and travel. Beyond its functional benefits, a crate can become a dog's personal den, offering comfort and reducing anxiety. Many different designs and construction materials are available, each with unique advantages and disadvantages depending on your dog's breed, size, temperament, and your specific needs. The 'best' dog crate depends on your particular requirements and the environment it will be used in. The ideal crate will balance factors like durability, ease of cleaning, portability, and of course, the dog's comfort and safety. Whether you're looking to potty-train a new puppy, provide a secure space during travel, or manage separation anxiety, selecting the perfect crate is a key factor in your dog’s well-being. This buying guide will help you navigate the selection.

What's In This Guide

Our Selection Methodology

Our selection process involved analyzing thousands of user reviews from major online retailers, examining expert recommendations from veterinarians and dog trainers and comparing technical specifications such as material, dimensions, and special features. Our AI algorithms processed this information to identify products that consistently scored high across multiple criteria. We reviewed the feedback on durability, ease of cleaning, and design to find crates that met the needs of various breeds and users, and the data was weighted based on its relevance to the factors above. We considered the consensus of professional opinions to assess safety and usability.

Selection Criteria

Durability

The crate must be made of sturdy materials that can withstand chewing, scratching, and general wear and tear. It should also withstand any elements the crate might encounter, such as weather if outside.

Safety

The crate must not have sharp edges or any components that could pose a risk to the dog. Locks should be secure and accessible. Ventilation should be adequate to prevent overheating or suffocation. Proper ventilation also helps with odors.

Ease of Use

The crate should be easy to assemble, disassemble (if applicable), clean, and transport. Features such as multiple doors, removable trays, and easy-to-clean surfaces contribute to user-friendliness.

Comfort

The crate's interior should be comfortable for the dog. This includes a spacious interior for stretching out, good ventilation, and the ability to add bedding. The crate should be large enough for the dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Size and Fit

The crate should be appropriately sized for the dog, providing enough space while still feeling secure. It should also fit within the available space in your home or vehicle.

Portability

For crates intended for travel, portability is an important factor. This includes weight, the presence of carrying handles, and the crate's ability to fold down or collapse for easy transport.

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Top 5 Dog Crate in 2025

Pros

  • Excellent ventilation and visibility.
  • Collapsible design for easy storage and transport.
  • Removable and washable plastic tray.

Cons

  • Can be challenging to transport when fully assembled due to size and weight.

Key Specifications

MaterialWire, Plastic
CollapsibleYes
Number of Doors2
IncludedDivider panel
Available SizesMultiple

The Frisco Fold & Carry Collapsible Wire Dog Crate is a top-rated option for its balance of durability, portability, and ease of use. Its wire construction provides excellent ventilation and visibility, crucial for reducing anxiety in dogs. The crate's multiple door design offers versatility in terms of placement in your home, and the included divider panel makes it easy to adjust the space for growing puppies. Its collapsible design with convenient carry handles makes it relatively easy to transport and store when not in use, making it ideal for both home use and travel, though it is more cumbersome to carry than soft-sided crates. The crate does well in terms of durability, but heavy chewers may still be able to damage the wires. The removable plastic tray is simple to clean and contributes to the overall ease of maintenance, satisfying our selection criteria.

Pros

  • Durable and secure construction.
  • Ideal for travel and airline-approved.
  • Easy to clean.

Cons

  • May not provide as much visibility for the dog compared to wire crates.

Key Specifications

MaterialHeavy-duty plastic
Airline ApprovedYes
VentilationSide vents
Interior FeaturesRaised floor
Available SizesMultiple

The Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel is an excellent choice for those seeking a secure and travel-friendly crate. This kennel is constructed of heavy-duty plastic and features a durable, easy-to-clean design, making it suitable for both home use and travel. It meets most airline regulations. Its secure latching system and strong construction offer a high level of safety, especially for dogs prone to anxiety or those who may try to escape. While the plastic design can limit ventilation somewhat compared to wire crates, it offers a sense of security and den-like environment for the dog. Transportation is made easy by integrated handles and the kennel's overall robust build. The raised interior floor helps prevent urine from making the dog uncomfortable. Its design is well-suited for travel, road trips, and air travel, making it a solid choice in terms of portability.

Pros

  • Lightweight and portable.
  • Good ventilation and visibility.
  • Easy to transport.

Cons

  • Less durable than wire or plastic crates if your puppy chews.
  • Not as easy to clean.

Key Specifications

MaterialFabric and mesh
CollapsibleYes
WindowsMesh panels
PortabilityLightweight and foldable
Intended UseIndoor and travel

For pet owners looking for crates that provide a comfortable and portable solution, soft-sided crates are a great option. The Amazon Basics Folding Soft Dog Crate, is an excellent value proposition for owners who need a lightweight crate that's simple to set up and transport. The soft-sided design is gentle on your dog and ideal when moving an animal in a vehicle or even from house to house. It collapses easily and fits in tight spaces. The mesh panels provide good ventilation and visibility, which helps reduce stress caused by confinement. While not a great choice for dogs that are prone to chewing, the crate is great for travel and indoor use, particularly for dogs that are already crate-trained and don't require a heavy-duty enclosure. It’s a good, affordable option that's easy to manage and move around.

#4

Diggs Revol Dog Crate

Best Heavy-Duty and Secure Crate

https://diggs.pet/

Pros

  • Extremely durable and secure.
  • Stylish and well-designed.
  • Easy to clean and maintain.

Cons

  • Expensive compared to other types of crates.
  • Heavy and less portable.

Key Specifications

MaterialReinforced stainless steel
Door TypeMultiple doors, including top access
Locking MechanismSecure and escape-proof
FeaturesRemovable tray, rounded corners
SafetyHigh-security design

For pet owners who need maximum security and containment, the Diggs Revol Dog Crate is well-regarded. This sturdy crate is favored by many, but offers an elegant design that blends seamlessly into any home decor. The crate is constructed of high-quality materials, with reinforced steel frames and a durable, non-toxic coating, ensuring it can withstand even the most determined dogs. The Revol crate features multiple doors, including a front door and a top door, offering easy access for you and your dog. The crate also contains a removable tray, that is easy to clean. The overall design is created for convenience and ease of use. It's an excellent choice for dogs that may exhibit destructive behaviors or require a secure, escape-proof environment. It ranks extremely high on safety, with a focus on preventing escapes and providing a comfortable space for your dog.

Pros

  • Very affordable.
  • Easy to set up and store.
  • Good value for the money.

Cons

  • Limited to small dogs
  • Not ideal for puppies as they may chew

Key Specifications

MaterialMetal Wire
Folding DesignYes
DoorSingle Door
IncludesDivider.
SizeSuitable for small dogs

For smaller dog breeds, the Midwest iCrate Single Door Folding Metal Dog Crate offers reliable features at an attractive price point. This crate is very affordable, while managing to offer a good balance of essential functions. It features a simple, folding metal wire design, making it easy to set up and store. Its portability makes it easy to use it for travel. Although the construction is not the most rugged of crate types, it is enough for small dogs that do not have the ability to chew through structures. This crate comes with a divider, making it a good choice as a puppy crate.

Conclusion

Choosing the right dog crate is crucial for your dog's safety, comfort, and training. This guide has identified top-performing crates based on durability, safety, ease of use, and value. Consider your dog's size, temperament, and your specific needs when making your final decision. Prioritize a crate that offers a secure and comfortable space, and make sure that it is the right fit for where you intend to place it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I determine the correct size dog crate for my dog?

The appropriate crate size depends on your dog's size and breed. The crate should be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. As a general rule, measure your dog from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail and add a few inches. For height, measure from the top of their head to the ground while they are standing and add a couple of inches. If you get a crate that is too large, it may be tempting for your dog to eliminate in one portion while sleeping in another.

Are there different types of dog crates?

Yes, there are several types of dog crates available. Wire crates are popular for their ventilation and visibility. Plastic crates are ideal for travel and offer a den-like environment. Soft-sided crates are lightweight and easy to transport but less secure. And finally, heavy-duty crates provide the utmost in safety and security.

How do I train my dog to use a crate?

Introduce the crate gradually to make it a positive experience. Start by placing treats and toys inside. Encourage your dog to enter the crate with positive reinforcement. Never force your dog into the crate or use it as a punishment. Begin with short periods in the crate and gradually increase the time. If you do encounter issues, consider enlisting the help of a certified dog trainer.