Category: Beds & Crates

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

1. Measure your dog’s length from nose to base of tail while standing, then add a few inches.
2. Measure height from the floor to the top of the head or ears, whichever is taller, while sitting, then add a few inches.
3. 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.

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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.

Big dogs need big beds, but size is only part of the equation. Large and giant breeds put more weight on their beds, so cheap stuffing flattens quickly, leaving them lying on the hard floor. A supportive, durable bed can make a real difference to your dog’s comfort.

This guide explains the main types of beds for big dogs, how to size one and which features matter most. We describe products and materials based on published information rather than our own testing.

This article is general information, not veterinary advice. If your dog has arthritis, hip dysplasia or other joint problems, ask your veterinarian what type of support they recommend.

Why Bed Choice Matters for Big Dogs

• Weight: Heavier dogs compress fill more, so supportive materials matter.
• Joints: Many large breeds are prone to joint issues, and a supportive surface may help them rest comfortably.
• Durability: Big dogs can be rough on bedding through digging, circling and chewing.
• Heat: Large, thick-coated dogs often run warm and may prefer cooler surfaces.

Types of Dog Beds

Orthopedic Memory Foam Beds

These beds use solid memory foam or a combination of support foam and memory foam.

• Pros: Conforms to the body and distributes weight evenly. Often recommended for older or heavy dogs.
• Cons: Can retain heat. Quality varies widely, so look for thick, dense foam.

Look for: A foam thickness appropriate to your dog’s weight, a removable washable cover and a waterproof liner.

Bolster Beds

These have raised sides around some or all edges.

• Pros: Many dogs like resting their heads on the bolster. Great for dogs that curl up.
• Cons: Reduces flat sleeping space. Bolsters may be chewed.

Elevated Cot Beds

A fabric surface stretched over a raised frame.

• Pros: Allows airflow underneath, which can keep dogs cooler. Easy to clean and good for outdoor use. Popular brands include Coolaroo and Kuranda.
• Cons: Less cushioning. Some dogs need time to get used to them.

Pillow and Mattress Beds

Flat, cushioned beds stuffed with fiberfill or foam pieces.

• Pros: Inexpensive and easy to move.
• Cons: Fiberfill tends to flatten and clump, especially under big dogs.

Chew-Resistant Beds

Made with tough fabrics such as ballistic nylon or with aluminum frames.

• Pros: Designed to survive determined chewers.
• Cons: No bed is truly indestructible. Often more expensive.

Cooling Beds

Gel-infused foam or pressure-activated cooling pads.

• Pros: Can provide relief for warm dogs.
• Cons: Cooling effect may be temporary, and some materials are not chew-safe.

How to Size a Bed for a Large Dog

1. Measure your dog from nose to base of tail while they lie stretched out.
2. Add several inches to that length for comfortable space.
3. Observe sleep style: Dogs that sprawl need rectangular beds. Dogs that curl may like round or bolster beds.
4. Check the sleeping surface, not just the outer dimensions. Bolsters can take up a lot of space.

When in doubt, go bigger. Many large-breed owners find that beds labeled “large” are too small and need “extra large” or “jumbo” sizes.

Features to Look For

Foam Quality and Thickness

Thicker, denser foam is less likely to bottom out under a heavy dog. Look for published foam density or thickness specifications if available.

Removable, Washable Cover

Big dogs bring in a lot of dirt and hair. A removable cover that fits in your washing machine makes cleaning much easier.

Waterproof Liner

A liner protects foam from accidents, drool and spills, extending the life of the bed. Especially useful for older dogs or puppies.

Non-Slip Bottom

Prevents the bed from sliding on hard floors, which helps dogs with mobility issues get on and off safely.

Low Entry Height

Older dogs or dogs with joint issues may find it easier to step onto a lower-profile bed.

Warranty

Some manufacturers offer warranties on foam that cover flattening. Read the terms carefully.

Matching the Bed to Your Dog

Dog Type	Possible Bed Type
Senior or heavy dog	Thick orthopedic foam with a low entry
Dog that runs hot	Elevated cot or cooling bed
Dog that curls up	Bolster bed or round bed
Dog that sprawls	Large rectangular mattress or foam bed
Destructive chewer	Chew-resistant cot or tough fabric bed
Crate sleeper	Crate pad sized to the crate

Beds for Crates

If your dog sleeps in a crate, choose a crate pad that fits the crate’s interior dimensions so it does not bunch up. For puppies or dogs that chew bedding, start with a durable mat and supervise. Read our crate training schedule and our guide to the best dog crates.

Caring for a Dog Bed

• Vacuum regularly to remove hair and dirt.
• Wash covers according to the manufacturer’s directions.
• Spot clean foam if necessary, but avoid soaking it unless the instructions allow.
• Rotate or flip the bed if possible to spread wear.
• Check for damage such as loose stuffing or zippers your dog could chew and swallow.
• Replace beds that have flattened and no longer provide support.

Where to Place the Bed

• In a spot where your dog can see family activity but has some quiet.
• Away from drafts, heaters and direct sunlight.
• Some owners keep a bed in the bedroom and another in the living area.

Signs It Is Time for a New Bed

Beds wear out gradually, so it is easy to miss when one stops doing its job. Watch for:

• Visible flattening where your dog usually lies, especially in the middle
• Your dog choosing the floor or another surface over the bed
• Lumpy or clumped fill that no longer spreads evenly
• Persistent odor that remains after washing the cover
• Torn seams or exposed foam that could be chewed and swallowed
• Difficulty getting up from a bed that has become too soft or sunken

A simple test is to press your hand into the center of the bed. If you can easily feel the floor through it, the bed is probably no longer supportive enough for a big dog.

Budgeting for Quality

A well-made foam bed for a large dog often costs more up front than a basic pillow bed. Some owners find that a single sturdy bed outlasts several cheaper ones, but that depends on your dog’s habits. If your dog is still chewing, it may make sense to use an inexpensive, durable mat until that phase passes and invest in a better bed afterward.

Multiple Beds

Many big dogs like to follow their people from room to room. Having a supportive bed in the main living area and a second, simpler bed in the bedroom can give your dog a comfortable place to rest wherever the family is.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do big dogs need orthopedic beds?

Not every large dog needs one, but supportive foam is a popular choice for heavy, older or arthritic dogs. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations.

How thick should a dog bed be for a large dog?

It depends on the materials and your dog’s weight. Thicker, denser foam generally provides better support for heavy dogs.

How often should I replace my dog’s bed?

Replace it when it flattens, tears or no longer cleans well. Frequency depends on quality and use.

Are elevated dog beds good for big dogs?

Many big dogs like them for airflow and coolness, especially outdoors. Dogs that like to curl up or that need more cushioning may prefer a foam bed.

What can I do if my dog keeps chewing their bed?

Try a chew-resistant bed, provide appropriate chew toys and increase exercise and enrichment. See our guide to toys for heavy chewers. Ask a trainer if chewing persists.

The Bottom Line

The best bed for a big dog is supportive, appropriately sized, easy to clean and suited to how your dog sleeps. Orthopedic foam beds are a strong choice for heavy or older dogs, elevated cots work well for warm dogs and bolster beds suit curlers. Measure carefully, go bigger when in doubt and choose a bed with a washable cover and waterproof liner so it lasts.

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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.