A good crate gives your dog a safe, comfortable space at home and on the road. But crates come in many styles, and the right choice depends on your dog’s size, personality and how you plan to use it. A crate that works for a calm adult dog may not hold up to a determined escape artist, and a crate perfect for home may not be allowed on an airline.
This guide compares the main types of dog crates, explains how to size one and highlights features worth considering. We describe products based on published features rather than our own testing.
This article is general information, not veterinary or behavioral advice. Crates should be introduced gradually and never used as punishment. If your dog panics or injures itself in a crate, stop and consult your veterinarian or a qualified behavior professional.
Types of Dog Crates
Wire Crates
Metal wire crates are the most common type for home use.
- Pros: Good ventilation and visibility. Most fold flat for storage. Many include a divider panel for growing puppies and a removable tray for cleaning.
- Cons: Less den-like, though a cover helps. Some dogs can bend weaker wire or rattle the doors.
Popular examples: MidWest Life Stages and MidWest iCrate are widely available wire crates with divider panels.
Plastic Crates
Hard-sided plastic crates with ventilation holes and a wire door.
- Pros: Enclosed and den-like, which some dogs find calming. Often used for travel. Some meet airline requirements.
- Cons: Less airflow and visibility. Bulkier to store.
Popular examples: Petmate Vari Kennel and Petmate Sky Kennel are common plastic crates, with the Sky Kennel marketed for air travel.
Soft-Sided Crates
Fabric crates on a lightweight frame.
- Pros: Lightweight, portable and easy to set up. Good for travel and calm dogs.
- Cons: Not suitable for chewers or dogs that try to escape. Harder to clean.
Heavy-Duty Crates
Crates made from thick steel or reinforced materials.
- Pros: Designed to contain strong dogs or escape artists.
- Cons: Heavy and expensive. If your dog is trying hard to escape, the underlying stress should be addressed with a professional.
Popular examples: Brands like Impact Dog Crates and Gunner Kennels make heavy-duty crates; Gunner also markets crash-tested crates for travel.
Furniture-Style Crates
Crates designed to look like end tables or cabinets.
- Pros: Blend in with home décor and can double as furniture.
- Cons: Often expensive and less suitable for chewers. Some are less ventilated.
How to Size a Crate
- Measure your dog’s length from nose to base of tail while standing, then add a few inches.
- Measure height from the floor to the top of the head or ears, whichever is taller, while sitting, then add a few inches.
- Choose a crate where your dog can stand, turn around and lie down comfortably.
For puppies, buy a crate sized for the expected adult size and use a divider panel. Too much space early on may encourage accidents in one corner.
Features to Look For
- Divider panel for puppies.
- Two doors for flexible placement.
- Secure latches, especially for clever dogs.
- Removable, leak-proof tray for cleaning.
- Rounded edges to reduce injury risk.
- Rubber feet or roller feet to protect floors.
- Folding design for storage and travel.
- Airline compliance, if you plan to fly. Check the specific airline’s requirements.
Matching the Crate to Your Needs
| Situation | Suggested Crate Type |
|---|---|
| Growing puppy at home | Wire crate with divider |
| Dog that prefers a den | Plastic crate or covered wire crate |
| Travel and camping | Soft-sided crate for calm dogs, plastic for others |
| Air travel | Airline-compliant plastic crate |
| Escape artist | Heavy-duty crate, plus professional help |
| Living room décor | Furniture-style crate |
| Car travel | Secured crash-tested crate. See dog car safety gear |
Setting Up the Crate
- Add a comfortable bed or crate pad. See dog beds for big dogs.
- Place the crate where your family spends time.
- Provide a safe chew toy or food puzzle. See toys for heavy chewers.
- Remove collars with dangling tags if they could catch on wire.
Introducing the Crate
Make the crate a positive place with treats, meals and short sessions. Follow our crate training schedule for a step-by-step plan.
Crate Safety Tips
- Check for damage such as bent wires or broken latches.
- Do not leave dogs crated for excessive periods.
- Keep crates out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources.
- Supervise dogs in soft-sided crates.
- Never crate a dog wearing a choke or prong collar.
Crates for Different Life Stages
Puppies
A wire crate with a divider lets you start small and expand as your puppy grows. Plan for chewing by using a simple, durable pad at first.
Adult Dogs
Many adult dogs enjoy a crate as a quiet retreat, with the door left open. A covered wire crate or plastic crate can feel cozy.
Senior Dogs
Older dogs may benefit from a crate with a low entry and a supportive, orthopedic pad. Make sure there is plenty of room to stretch out.
Cleaning and Maintenance
- Remove and wash trays regularly with pet-safe cleaners.
- Wipe down wire and plastic surfaces.
- Wash crate pads and covers according to instructions.
- Check hardware such as latches, pins and clips for wear.
Buying Used Crates
Used crates are widely available and can save money. Check for rust, bent wires, cracks in plastic and working latches, and clean thoroughly before use. Make sure all parts, including the divider and tray, are included.
Where to Put the Crate
Place the crate where your dog can see and hear the household but still rest. Avoid spots near heaters, air vents, drafty doors or direct sunlight. Some owners keep a second, lighter crate in the bedroom for nights or a travel crate in the car, so the dog has a familiar space wherever it goes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wire or plastic crate: which is better?
Wire crates offer ventilation and visibility, while plastic crates are more enclosed and often better for travel. Choose based on your dog’s preferences and your needs.
What size crate should I get?
Your dog should be able to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably. Use a divider for puppies.
Can I use a soft-sided crate for a puppy?
Soft-sided crates are not ideal for puppies that chew or are still learning. Start with a wire or plastic crate.
Is a crate cruel?
When introduced positively and used appropriately, many dogs see crates as safe resting spaces. Crates should not be used for punishment or excessive confinement.
Are heavy-duty crates necessary?
Only for dogs that can escape or damage standard crates. Work with a professional to address the underlying cause.
The Bottom Line
The best dog crate depends on your dog and your plans. Wire crates with dividers suit most puppies and home use, plastic crates are den-like and travel-friendly, soft-sided crates suit calm travelers and heavy-duty crates are for escape artists. Size the crate correctly, set it up comfortably and introduce it gradually and positively.
Editorial note: Woof Wisely is independent and reader-supported. This guide is based on research into manufacturer documentation, published specifications and widely accepted best practices; we have not been paid to mention any product. If we add affiliate links in the future, they will be clearly disclosed per our Affiliate Disclosure.