Dog Crate Buying Guide for Pet Owners

If you're in the market for a dog crate, consider the size of your dog first. The ideal crate size is about 1-2 inches longer and wider than your dog's measurements.

When choosing a crate, think about your dog's age and breed. Puppies and small breeds, like the Chihuahua, require smaller crates, while larger breeds, like the Labrador, need bigger ones.

A good rule of thumb is to choose a crate that's easy to clean and assemble. Some crates, like the plastic ones, are a breeze to clean, while others, like the wire crates, require more effort.

Ultimately, the best crate for you will depend on your lifestyle and your dog's needs.

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When choosing a dog crate, consider the size of your dog carefully. The best size crate for your dog depends on various factors, including their height and length.

To determine the ideal fit, measure your dog from the top of their head to the bottom of their feet to determine height, and from the tip of their nose to the tip of their tail to determine length. Add 3 to 4 inches to each measurement to compute the height and length of the dog crate you'll need.

It's also a good idea to consider your dog's full-grown size, especially if you're purchasing an adult-sized crate for a puppy. You can estimate their full-grown height and length based on their breed or breed-mix, or speak with your breeder for guidance.

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To get the right fit for your dog's crate, you'll need to measure them carefully. Measure your dog from the top of their head to the bottom of their feet to determine their height. Add 3 to 4 inches to each measurement to compute the height and length of the dog crate you'll need.

Measuring your dog's length is just as important. Measure from the tip of their nose to the tip of their tail to get an accurate reading. This will help you choose a crate that's the perfect size for your dog.

Don't forget to consider your dog's full-grown size when choosing a crate. If you know what size your dog will grow to, estimate their height and length based on their breed or breed-mix. This will ensure you get a crate that will accommodate them as they grow.

Remember, there can be large size variations within breeds, so it's essential to measure your dog accurately to get the most ideal fit.

Now that you've chosen the right crate for your dog, it's time to set it up.

You'll want to put the crate in a location that's easy to access and quiet, as recommended in our article on where to put the crate.

Make sure to include a comfortable bed or mattress in the crate to provide your dog with a cozy place to rest.

A crate with adequate ventilation is essential for your dog's comfort and safety.

Don't forget to add some fun toys and treats to the crate to make it a welcoming space for your dog.

Our Puppy Essentials: Crate Training Workshop offers self-paced training lessons and video demonstrations to help you with your puppy's crate training, all for just $9.

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When choosing a dog crate, there are several types to consider.

First, you'll want to think about your budget, as the type of crate you choose will depend on it.

You'll also want to choose a crate that's secure enough to prevent an escape, which is especially important if your dog is a chewer.

A crate that's easy to assemble and take apart can be a lifesaver if you need to move it around or store it away.

Plastic crates are a great option for dogs who need a bit more privacy while in their crate.

They can also serve as travel carriers for dogs, making them super convenient for trips.

If you plan to fly with your large dog, plastic crates can be a good option, often referred to as airline kennels.

The Aspen Pet Porter and the Petmate Sky Kennel are two top picks for plastic crates.

Plastic crates are easy to clean, which is a major plus for pet owners.

Durable and well-ventilated plastic crates are a must for safe and comfortable travel with your dog.

Metal crates are a great option for dogs who love to chew. They're the sturdiest type of crate you can buy.

Dogs who tend to chew through other materials will appreciate the durability of metal crates. These crates provide good air circulation and visibility, making them a great choice for pets who get anxious or stressed.

Fabric covers can be a nice touch for metal crates, offering your dog extra privacy and beautifying the crate.

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Wood crates are a stylish and sturdy option that can double as furniture, like end tables, to fit seamlessly with your home decor.

They offer sturdy support for your dog, but keep in mind that they are heavier than other types of crates.

Assembling wood crates can be a bit of a challenge, so be prepared to put in some effort to get them set up.

They are harder to clean compared to other materials, so make sure to wipe them down regularly to keep them in good condition.

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Soft-sided (fabric) crates are a great option for pet owners who need a portable and easy-to-set-up solution. They're lightweight and inexpensive, making them a convenient choice for travel or temporary crating.

Soft-sided crates are not very durable and can be easy to escape from, especially for dogs that like to chew on or paw at their crate.

One of the benefits of soft-sided crates is their ease of setup - they're fast to assemble and can be taken down just as quickly. This makes them perfect for pet owners who need to move their crate around frequently.

These crates are also not the easiest to clean, which can be a drawback for pet owners who want a hassle-free experience.

A collapsible comparison chart is a game-changer for anyone who's ever struggled to visualize the differences between various types of crates.

One of the most notable features of collapsible crates is their ability to be folded up when not in use, making them ideal for storage and transportation.

This type of crate is often used for shipping and storing fragile items, such as electronics and glassware, due to its ability to distribute weight evenly.

You can easily spot a collapsible crate by its characteristic foldable design, which allows it to be compacted into a smaller space.

By using a collapsible comparison chart, you can quickly and easily see how different types of crates stack up in terms of features and benefits.

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You can work in crate space in a variety of places, it's all just up to your imagination. Customizable options on Etsy offer amazing and gorgeous creations, like the one from OriginalDogFurniture.

If you prefer a more permanent solution, consider building a crate under the stairs or under the kitchen counter. This can be a great way to utilize often-wasted space.

Under-staircase crates can be a fantastic option, especially for small homes or apartments. Just be sure to measure the space carefully before starting your project.

Custom-built crates can also be designed to fit into tight spaces, like the one built into the counter in a laundry room. However, be mindful of your dog's comfort level with the sound and vibration of the washer or dryer.

The High Anxiety Crate is built to last with 62% thicker aluminum alloy, making it incredibly strong and durable. This ensures your pet's safety and gives you peace of mind.

The crate's secure design features four extra butterfly latches and a zinc-plated steel paddle latch, making it virtually escape-proof. These extra latches provide an extra layer of security that's hard to beat.

The ventilation holes, measuring 0.5 inches in diameter, are designed to allow for adequate airflow while keeping your pet safe from harm.

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Wire crates can be a good option for some dog owners, but they're not all created equal. The Frisco Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate is easy to assemble, but its locking mechanism is flimsy.

Some wire crates have a plastic frame, like the Pet Gear The Other Door Steel Crate, which is sold in a narrow range of sizes and is quite expensive. The MidWest's iCrate Folding Metal Dog Crate has thinner wire than its siblings, the LifeStages and the Ultima Pro crates, and is less resistant to bending and escape.

The stackable design of our crates is a game-changer for storage and organization. This feature allows you to stack like sizes on top of each other in either the upright or collapsed position, thanks to the durable corners.

You can easily maximize your storage space by stacking crates of the same size, making it perfect for use in warehouses, garages, or even in your home.

Our top pick is made with 62% thicker aluminum alloy, which provides unmatched strength and an escape-proof design. This means your pet's safety and your peace of mind are guaranteed.

The High Anxiety Crate has four extra butterfly latches plus a zinc-plated steel paddle latch for added security. These extra features ensure the crate can withstand even the most determined attempts to escape.

Small circle ventilation holes, measuring 0.5 inches, are strategically placed to prevent dogs from getting their teeth in and potentially harming themselves. This thoughtful design provides adequate airflow while keeping your pet safe.

The High Anxiety Crate comes with a Lifetime Dog Damage Guarantee and a Lifetime Warranty. This comprehensive coverage gives you peace of mind, knowing you're protected in case your dog breaks the crate.

A crate cover can be a nice addition to your pup's crate, but it's not necessary for their comfort. Some dogs like the extra den-like space it creates, especially if they naturally settle in enclosed spaces.

If your dog does benefit from a crate cover, a correctly fitted one is a better option than using towels or sheets. This type of cover fits more snuggly, allows for better airflow, and looks nicer.

However, if your dog has a habit of pulling and eating crate covers, it's best to skip covering their crate altogether.

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Our crates are designed with safety in mind. We worked with the Center for Pet Safety to ensure our Stationary crate meets the highest safety standards.

Crash testing is a rigorous process that simulates real-world accidents to test a crate's durability and ability to protect pets. Our Stationary crates were crash tested with the Center for Pet Safety.

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Air travel security is a top priority for crate manufacturers and shippers. In fact, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) requires that all crates be designed and constructed to withstand the rigors of air travel, including rapid decompression and extreme temperatures.

Crates must be able to maintain their structural integrity even if the aircraft experiences turbulence or sudden changes in air pressure. This is why crate manufacturers use specialized materials and designs to ensure their products can withstand these conditions.

The testing process for crates involves subjecting them to various stress tests, including drop tests and pressure tests. These tests simulate the conditions that crates may face during air travel.

Crates must also be able to withstand extreme temperatures, ranging from -40°C to 54°C (-40°F to 130°F). This ensures that the contents of the crate remain safe and secure during transport.

In addition to physical testing, crate manufacturers must also ensure that their products meet regulatory requirements for air travel. This includes compliance with IATA regulations and obtaining necessary certifications.

Our Stationary crates were crash tested with the Center for Pet Safety. We worked closely with them to ensure our design meets the highest safety standards.

Crash testing is a rigorous process that simulates real-world accidents to evaluate a crate's ability to protect pets. Our Stationary crate passed this test with flying colors, thanks to our partnership with the Center for Pet Safety.

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If you're planning a road trip with your dog, it's essential to consider their comfort and safety. Many dogs get anxious or stressed during car rides, so it's crucial to provide a comfortable space for them.

A dog crate can be a lifesaver on long road trips, as it provides a sense of security and helps prevent motion sickness. In fact, some dog owners swear by their crates as a must-have for travel.

According to experts, a crate should be at least 2-3 times the size of your dog to allow for movement and stretching. This is especially important for larger breeds.

Crates can also help prevent your dog from getting lost or injured in a crowded hotel room or during a hike. They're a must-have for any dog owner who loves to travel.

Traveling by air can be even more stressful for dogs, but a crate can help alleviate some of that anxiety. In fact, many airlines require a crate for in-cabin travel.

If you're in the market for a dog crate, you'll want to consider the size of your furry friend. A crate that's too small can be uncomfortable for your dog, while one that's too large may not provide the necessary sense of security.

For smaller breeds, a crate with a capacity of around 18-24 inches in length and 12-18 inches in width is usually sufficient. This size range allows for a comfortable and secure space for your dog to rest and relax.

Ultimately, the best dog crate for you will depend on your dog's individual needs and preferences.

The MidWest Ultima Pro Double Door Collapsible Wire Shed is our top pick. It's a high-quality crate that offers excellent support for your dog's needs.

Available in sizes from 22 inches long to 48 inches long, this crate provides ample space for your dog to move around comfortably. The Ultima Pro crate is also backed by MidWest's company support, which is a big plus.

This crate has a sturdy design with five crossbars that provide exceptional strength and durability. Our expert trainer highly recommends it for most dog caretakers.

The Ultima Pro crate is a bit more expensive than the MidWest LifeStages Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate, but it's worth the investment.

The Frisco Heavy Duty Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Cabinet is a budget-friendly option that packs a punch. It's usually about half the price of our main pick.

This cabinet features a super solid locking mechanism that slides nicely and remains secure when locked. The tray is easy to remove and clean, and it didn't slide out by mistake during testing.

The Frisco wire cabinet has a strong, coated steel frame and a wider grid with three crossbars instead of five. This design doesn't mean it's substantially less durable.

Each size of the Frisco cabinet is proportionally slightly wider and taller than the MidWest models, making it heavier and more cumbersome to carry.