The 5 best dog crates in 2025, tested and reviewed

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Whether you have a full-grown dog or a curious new puppy, a crate is a valuable tool for training and a necessity for travel. These enclosed structures also double as a cozy den where your dog can relax and a secure space to keep them (and your sneakers) safe when you're not around. While there are several designs to choose from, all of the best dog crates are comfortable for your dog to spend time in, simple for you to use, and easy to keep clean.

I've used crates for several years to train my own dogs and to temporarily care for foster pups, so I know how important it is to have one that's reliable and easy to use. I've also reviewed other furniture-type products, such as beach tents and lawn chairs, assessing their ease of assembly and durability. For this guide, I tested 10 dog crates for ease of use, structural strength, security, and portability. After my comprehensive evaluation, I can confidently declare the Midwest Life Stages Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate the best overall choice for everyday use at home. It has a rugged construction, features two secure doors, and folds down easily for storage.

Read more about how Business Insider Reviews tests and reviews pet products.

Our top picks for the best dog crates

Best overall: Midwest Life Stages Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate - See at Chewy

Best furniture: Frisco Double Door Furniture Style Dog Crate - See at Chewy

Best plastic kennel for travel: Frisco Plastic Dog and Cat Kennel - See at Chewy

Best soft: Elite Field 3-Door Soft-Sided Collapsible Dog Crate - See at Chewy

Best crash-tested: Gunner G1 Kennel - See at Gunner

Best overall

Despite its heavy-duty construction and sturdy frame, this Midwest wire crate is still convenient to fold down when it's time to store it away. Assembly takes a little more effort than you might expect. I had to do some pushing and pulling to hook the sides and top into place, but after a little practice, the process took me less than a minute.

The crate has a door on the front and one on the side. Both doors have secure latches that require two movements to unlock, greatly reducing the chances of them opening inadvertently. The medium crate held up well to my 30-pound pulling test, and another reporter who tested the extra large size found it just as sturdy — naming it the top pick for the best large dog crates. However, the crate's durable materials add to its weight, and the 26-pound size medium crate wasn't the easiest to transport.

Torie Silletto, a certified dog trainer, behavior consultant, and founder of Diamond Dogs, says a wire crate is the most secure and comfortable option and recommends this exact model. She says the removable divider is a major perk for those with puppies because you can create a smaller space ideal for housetraining.

Best furniture

If you'd prefer that your dog's crate function as part of your home decor, consider this stylish wooden crate from Frisco. Unlike the utilitarian look of the best dog crates made with wire and plastic, the crate's finished wood exterior blends in with other contemporary furniture pieces, and the rock-solid construction can support up to 200 pounds. As Semel says, the dual-function design of furniture-style crates makes them a great choice for those with limited space.

Assembling this crate took some serious time and effort. Unless you're an experienced DIY-er, you probably want a buddy to help position the pieces while tightening the cam locks into place. It doesn't include the necessary Phillips-head screwdriver either, so make sure you have one on hand. That being said, I never felt confused or frustrated when putting it together. The instruction manual is well-thought-out and walks you through every step with clear illustrations. This extensive assembly process resulted in an extremely sturdy crate, though, and even when I pushed, nudged, and shoved it, the crate refused to wobble or shift.

Best plastic kennel for travel

Even though this kennel weighs less than any hard-sided crate I tested (the medium size is just 10 pounds), it doesn't compromise on security, with a thick plastic body and two-position metal door lock. It even features extra holes on the top and bottom of the door frame for threading through zip ties for air travel. When carrying it during testing with a 20-pound sandbag inside, the top carrying handle never felt like it was in danger of failing, breaking, or pulling off.

Assembly was a little time-consuming, but threading and tightening the 10 wing nuts wasn't particularly difficult. I appreciated the extra peace of mind I got from knowing how tight and strong it's put together. Shelby Semel, senior trainer and founder of Shelby Semel Dog Training, says that kennel crates like this are common choices due to their affordability and reliability. Although this model was almost identical to the Petmate Sky Dog and Cat Kennel, its lower price and fixed ventilation holes, instead of a wire insert, ultimately made it a recommendation for the best dog crates.

Best soft

If you're interested in a lightweight crate that's easy to transport, this soft-sided model is a great option. Despite its spacious interior (medium size is a roomy 30 x 21 x 34 inches), the crate collapses down to just 4 inches wide. These dimensions, combined with its 13-pound weight and handy carrying strap, make it perfect for storage in a car trunk or closet.

Although the crate's fabric construction isn't as durable as the plastic, wood, or wire crates I tested, I was impressed with the locking frame mechanism. It uses a sliding collar to connect the tubular pieces instead of plastic snaps like the Frisco Indoor and Outdoor 3-Door Soft-Sided Crate. The densely woven polyester was also relatively easy to clean, and after using a basic cleaner and paper towel, minimal odor remained after my dog food cleanup test.

Semel says soft-sided crates like this one aren't practical for everyday use but are great for those who have a non-travel crate at home and would benefit from something more portable for occasional use. "If you are frequently housing other people's dogs or on the go a lot, I highly recommend it," she says.

Best crash-tested

For crates used primarily for transport, Semel says your crate should meet the proper safety regulations, and this Gunner crate exceeds challenging testing protocols from the Center for Pet Safety. With a thick, double-walled construction, the hard-sided crate provides an incredible amount of protection for your dog — perfect for car, van, or pickup truck travel. If you're doubtful, their testimonial page of crash victims and actual lab test videos should put those fears to rest. In my testing, I couldn't find a single weak point.

The kennel is also about as secure as they come, with a metal clasp lock that can be used as a key lock (two keys included) and built-in metal pins for tie-down straps. Thick rubber feet also keep the crate from sliding around. Although this extra protection translates to a heavier weight (the small size we tested weighed 27 pounds), two heavy-duty carrying straps with rubber handles help make this less of an issue. Plus, chances are you'll be leaving it in your truck bed or van most of the time anyway. The smooth interior is easy to wipe clean, and it has a handy removable plug, allowing you to spray it down and drain without much hassle.

What to look for in a dog crate

Not all dog crates are created equal, and certain models or types are better for different dogs and use cases. To help compile this list of key features to keep in mind when shopping for the best dog crates, I interviewed a board-certified veterinary behaviorist and two professional dog trainers.

Sizing: It's essential that you choose a crate that is the proper size for your dog. "The crate needs to be large enough for the dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably while spreading themselves out," Silletto says. All crate brands provide the internal dimensions of their crates, and some even do the work for you by telling you which size is best for your dog's specific measurements. If you have a puppy, look for a crate with a removable divider. This divider can be moved toward the back of the crate as your dog grows, increasing the size of its living space so you don't have to buy multiple crates for the same dog. Both of the wire crates in this guide include a removable divider.

Security: Your crate should be secure enough to keep your dog from escaping, especially if it's intended for travel use. Look for door locks and latches that are strong and sturdy and aren't easily opened accidentally. For extra security, most plastic travel crates also have holes to slip zip-ties through, and heavy-duty options, like the Gunner G1 Kennel, even have key locks. Keep in mind that soft crates lack the security of hard-sided options: "Soft crates can easily provide an escape route and are not safe for the dog to be left alone in," Silletto says. Safety is also important when considering the security of your crate. "It must not have any sharp edges or spaces where any body part can be caught," says Dr. Katherine Houpt, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist and professor at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.

Appearance: If you're concerned about aesthetics, look for a crate that better matches your home decor. Wire crates and plastic travel crates all look pretty much the same, but soft-sided options are available in many colors. Wooden furniture crates tend to be the best-looking and, depending on the finish, can add a modern, stylish look to your home.

Portability: Consider how portable you need your crate to be. "If you plan on moving it from room to room or bringing it with you to travel, you want to think about collapsibility and weight," Semel says. Plastic travel crates are designed primarily for transport, and although they're smaller than the average crate, their lighter weight and top-mounted handle make them well-suited for carrying. These are also the only crates intended to be moved with your dog inside. Although soft-sided crates cannot be moved with an animal inside, their light weight and folding design make them convenient to bring to a hotel, the beach, or another room in your house. While wire crates fold up and have carrying handles, they're still heavy and bulky, so not ideal for travel.

Cleaning: If your dog is likely to make a mess with their food or water dish, or you have a puppy that's not house-trained yet, look for a crate that's easy to keep clean. Opt for plastic or wire over wood and fabric, and look for a crate with a removable floor tray. These plastic trays are convenient to remove without taking apart the crate and can be hosed or rinsed off easily.

How we tested the best dog crates

To find the best dog crates, I put each model through a comprehensive testing process. Backed by extensive online research and expert insights, I evaluated and compared each one based on nine key criteria.

Structural strength: To each crate's overall structural strength and durability, I used a luggage scale with a looped hook to apply a consistent 30 pounds of pulling force to the doors, sides, and top. I looked for any signs of excessive bending, weakness in materials, and loose assembly points, while paying close attention to the stability of the doors and lock mechanisms.

Security and safety: I operated each door lock, latch system, and zipper 30 times to check for signs of wear or vulnerability. I also looked closely for any indications that the door could open accidentally. Additionally, I looked for any sharp corners or other design flaws that could injure a dog.

Portability: To evaluate how easy each crate is to move, I carried each one, except for the heavy wooden models not designed for transport, through my house and into my car. For crates intended for transport with a dog inside, I used a 20-pound sandbag to simulate a pet, paying close attention to the structural stability of the crates and their carrying handles.

Ease of use: To assess overall ease of use, I set up and broke down each collapsible crate three times, noting whether the process was straightforward or complicated. I also reviewed the instruction manuals to gauge how clear and helpful they were. Lastly, I considered whether components like door latches or carrying handles were user-friendly.

Cleaning: To simulate a soiled crate, I smeared dog food on the bottom and the interior walls of each crate, let it sit for an hour, and then cleaned it off as thoroughly as possible. I noted if the surfaces were smooth and easy to wipe down or porous and with lingering odor after cleaning.

Storage: I compared the overall size of each crate along with the folded dimensions, when applicable, to assess how easy it would be to store.

Appearance: While this factor is a bit subjective, I considered each crate's overall look and style. I also took into account the number of color options available for each model.

Functionality: I evaluated each crate's additional features, such as multiple doors for easy access, removable handles, bedding, or adjustable space dividers.

Size options: To ensure people can get the right-sized crate for their dog, I noted the range of sizes available.

Dog crates FAQs

Do vets recommend dog crates?

"Most veterinarians, trainers, and breeders recommend crate training dogs from a young age," according to the American Kennel Club. Veterinary behaviorist Houpt says a crate is useful for house training and travel. "In addition, some dogs seem to feel secure in their crates so will relax there," she says. That being said, it's important to know that veterinarians and dog trainers make it very clear that dogs should not be kept in crates for long periods. Silletto says you should not crate your dog for more than four hours: "It's inhumane to crate a dog for 40 hours a week and will erode the positive association with their crate." And, if you are unable to monitor your dog while they're in the crate, you should remove any collar or harness, which could become trapped in parts of the crate.

What kind of crate is best for dogs?

The best crate for dogs depends on that animal's specific wants and your needs. A basic wire crate should suffice if you're using it primarily in your home and won't be moving it much. However, some dogs prefer a more den-like environment, so covering it with a blanket may be helpful. If your dog is prone to pulling the blanket inside for chewing, you might want to consider a different type of crate. For dogs traveling to a vet appointment or on an airplane, a plastic kennel-style crate will keep them comfortable and safe while being carried around. The best crate for dedicated car or truck bed travel is one that is crash-tested, like the Gunner G1 Kennel.

What is the purpose of a dog crate?

The purpose of a dog crate depends on your specific needs, but in a nutshell, it's to provide a comfortable and relaxing space for your dog to be confined. By preventing your dog from wandering on their own, you can also productively teach house training and chew training without having to monitor your dog's behavior and location constantly. "Dogs instinctively keep their rest area clean and will not relieve themselves on their bedding," Silletto says. "This allows you to better control when they go to the bathroom (outside) and makes it easier to reward them for it." If you simply want to keep your dog from entering different parts of your home, like the kitchen, one of the best dog gates may be more suitable.

What is the best brand for dog crates?

The best brand for you will depend on your needs. Frisco and Midwest are popular, well-regarded brands for most crates, while Gunner is a phenomenally good brand for vehicular travel.

What type of crates do dogs prefer?

Dogs prefer the type of crate that makes them feel comfortable and relaxed inside. Regardless of whether a crate is wire, plastic, or wood, it's much more important to create a positive association between the dog and the crate. To do so, Houpt recommends placing a dog's favorite toys in it for several days and rolling balls into it for several days until the dog willingly enters. At that point, close the door only part way and wait a few days before closing it completely. Another way to form a positive relationship between your dog and the crate, according to Silletto, is to hide treats in the crate. "This way, the dog is rewarded when they spontaneously go inside the crate on their own," she says.

What is the best crate for a dog to sleep in?

The best dog crates for sleep are ones that are small enough to provide a den-like environment. Depending on the dog, a more enclosed option, like the Frisco Double Door Furniture Style Dog Crate, could provide an even cozier environment for overnight use. Semel says that the flooring or bedding also affects a dog's comfort. "Some dogs get too warm, so a plush or fuzzy mat may be too much," she says, adding that you may need to try out different options and that some dogs may prefer just a blanket or large stuffed toy.

Can I use a dog crate for travel?

Semel recommends crates for travel, adding that as a "portable bedroom," a crate allows your dog to have the same routine while away from home. Keep in mind, however, that a dog's collar or harness could become caught between the wires of a crate, so you should remove any collars or harnesses for their safety. Plastic, kennel-style options are lighter weight than other models and have handles on top so you can easily carry them with your dog inside. If you frequently drive with your dog or transport them in the back of a pickup truck, the crash-tested Gunner G1 Kennel is a perfect option.

Dog crates FAQs

Do vets recommend dog crates?

"Most veterinarians, trainers, and breeders recommend crate training dogs from a young age," according to the American Kennel Club. Veterinary behaviorist Houpt says a crate is useful for house training and travel. "In addition, some dogs seem to feel secure in their crates so will relax there," she says. That being said, it's important to know that veterinarians and dog trainers make it very clear that dogs should not be kept in crates for long periods. Silletto says you should not crate your dog for more than four hours: "It's inhumane to crate a dog for 40 hours a week and will erode the positive association with their crate." And, if you are unable to monitor your dog while they're in the crate, you should remove any collar or harness, which could become trapped in parts of the crate.

What kind of crate is best for dogs?

The best crate for dogs depends on that animal's specific wants and your needs. A basic wire crate should suffice if you're using it primarily in your home and won't be moving it much. However, some dogs prefer a more den-like environment, so covering it with a blanket may be helpful. If your dog is prone to pulling the blanket inside for chewing, you might want to consider a different type of crate. For dogs traveling to a vet appointment or on an airplane, a plastic kennel-style crate will keep them comfortable and safe while being carried around. The best crate for dedicated car or truck bed travel is one that is crash-tested, like the Gunner G1 Kennel.

What is the purpose of a dog crate?

The purpose of a dog crate depends on your specific needs, but in a nutshell, it's to provide a comfortable and relaxing space for your dog to be confined. By preventing your dog from wandering on their own, you can also productively teach house training and chew training without having to monitor your dog's behavior and location constantly. "Dogs instinctively keep their rest area clean and will not relieve themselves on their bedding," Silletto says. "This allows you to better control when they go to the bathroom (outside) and makes it easier to reward them for it. "

What is the best brand for dog crates?

The best brand for you will depend on your needs. Frisco and Midwest are popular, well-regarded brands for most crates, while Gunner is a phenomenally good brand for vehicular travel.

What type of crates do dogs prefer?

Dogs prefer the type of crate that makes them feel comfortable and relaxed inside. Regardless of whether a crate is wire, plastic, or wood, it's much more important to create a positive association between the dog and the crate. To do so, Houpt recommends placing a dog's favorite toys in it for several days and rolling balls into it for several days until the dog willingly enters. At that point, close the door only part way and wait a few days before closing it completely. Another way to form a positive relationship between your dog and the crate, according to Silletto, is to hide treats in the crate. "This way, the dog is rewarded when they spontaneously go inside the crate on their own," she says.

What is the best crate for a dog to sleep in?

The best dog crate to sleep in is one that's small enough to provide a den-like environment. Depending on the dog, a more enclosed option, like the Frisco Double Door Furniture Style Dog Crate, could provide an even cozier environment for overnight use. Semel says that the flooring or bedding also affects a dog's comfort. "Some dogs get too warm, so a plush or fuzzy mat may be too much," she says, adding that you may need to try out different options and that some dogs may prefer just a blanket or large stuffed toy.

Can I use a dog crate for travel?

Semel recommends crates for travel, adding that as a "portable bedroom," a crate allows your dog to have the same routine while away from home. Keep in mind, however, that a dog's collar or harness could become caught between the wires of a crate, so you should remove any collars or harnesses for their safety. Plastic, kennel-style options are lighter weight than other models and have handles on top so you can easily carry them with your dog inside. If you frequently drive with your dog or transport them in the back of a pickup truck, the crash-tested Gunner G1 Kennel is a perfect option.