The 6 Best Dog Crates, According To Pet Experts And Dog Owners

Forbes

6 days ago

When you start crate-shopping for your dog, it's easy to underestimate how much the littlest details matter. The best dog crates aren't just basic cages, after all; they're designed to support your dog's natural habits and daily comfort while still keeping them safe, with secure latches, sturdy frames and plenty of ventilation. Our top overall pick, the Midwest Homes for Pets Life Stages Crate, meets these requirements while being affordable and versatile enough to last through your dog's entire life. It has a durable build, great airflow, multiple entry points and an adjustable divider for puppies, making it a comfortable place your dog(s) can use for years.
The best dog crates from Midwest, Diggs, Gunner and more offer safety, comfort and peace of mind. Illustration: Forbes / Image: Retailers
But no matter how well-made a crate is, picking the right size is essential. "Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably," says certified professional dog trainer and author Nicole Ellis. If your pup is still growing, Ellis recommends investing in a crate that has divider panels in the largest size they'd eventually need. "This gives you one crate for their whole life and avoids the 'pee in one corner, nap in the other' problem." Once you've nailed down size, you can consider your dog's specific personality or habits. For example, nervous dogs might feel safer in an ultra-secure option like the Impact High Anxiety Dog Crate, while style-conscious pet owners might prefer something sleeker, such as the furniture-inspired Fable Pets Crate. Understanding your dog's unique needs will ultimately point you toward the crate they'll happily settle into every day. Our Top Recommendations
Dimensions: 22 x 13 x 16 inches (extra small) up to 48 x 30 x 33 inches (extra large) | Weight: Approximately 12 to 48 pounds | Sizes: 6 (extra small to extra large) | Materials: Metal wire, plastic tray | Foldable: Yes
What you'll love: Adjustable divider lets you start small for puppies
Sturdy construction
Two doors offer versatile placement options
Removable bottom tray is easy to clean and replace
Keep in mind: Basic appearance; looks like a typical wire crate
On larger sizes, crate can be heavy and awkward to move alone
My family has had the Midwest Homes for Pets Life Stages crate for more than two decades. It's moved houses with us and been used by three different dogs, from tiny puppies through adulthood. I used the crate with its adjustable divider when my current dog was an eight-pound puppy, and now at four years old and 55 pounds, she still sleeps in it every night.
Even after decades of constant use, the crate's metal frame still feels completely sturdy and barely shows any signs of wear. There are two doors—one on the front, one on the side—each secured with slide-bolt latches that include a "Paw Block" mechanism to prevent Houdini dogs from pawing the door open from inside. It also features rounded corners, so puppies won't snag themselves on sharp edges when they're moving around. The wire construction allows for plenty of ventilation, and while some dogs prefer the openness, mine has always liked a crate cover to create a den-like environment. While the plastic tray on the bottom has held up surprisingly well over the years, you can easily purchase a replacement if it gets damaged or overly soiled. When you do need to clean it, just pull out the tray, rinse it off and slide it right back in. And when I've needed to pack the crate away or move it between rooms, the entire thing folds completely flat in seconds. Pairing the Midwest crate with one of our favorite tested dog beds , like this orthopedic option from Bark Box, can help create a cozier environment your pup will love.
Diggs Diggs Revol Dog Crate
Dimensions: 25.3 x 17.4 x 18.5 inches (small) up to 42.5 x 28 x 30 inches (large) | Weight: 25 to 53 pounds | Sizes: 4 (small to large) | Materials: Steel mesh, reinforced plastic, aluminum | Foldable: Yes
What you'll love: Collapsible design with wheels and a handle makes moving it around easier
Top-access door lets you gently lift puppies in and out
Smooth mesh and rounded edges help keep paws and jaws safe
Specifically recommended by dog trainers
Keep in mind: More expensive than some others on our list
Not available in sizes suitable for giant breeds
The Diggs Revol is undeniably a major upgrade in both quality and cost compared to typical wire crates, starting around $500 and climbing to nearly $1,000 depending on size. But several trainers and veterinarians we spoke to, including Ellis, specifically recommended it because of safety-oriented details that aren't standard in most crates. For example, the Revol has smooth, diamond-shaped steel mesh, which helps avoid paws or jaws getting caught, and rounded corners that minimize the risk of injury if your dog moves around a lot inside. These safety improvements might be worth the investment if you have a particularly anxious or active dog, or a puppy who tends to paw or bite at their crate.
Some of its other features aren't necessarily unique: it has a removable plastic tray and adjustable divider, just like more affordable crates. But the Revol does add details that make regular use a bit simpler. It folds flat for storage and has built-in wheels and a sturdy handle, so you can roll it between rooms without having to pick it up. (That makes a huge difference, especially with larger crates.) An extra door on top helps if you're frequently lifting a nervous or wriggling puppy in or out rather than coaxing them through the front. Diggs also offers additional accessories you can purchase separately, like a crate-mounted treat dispenser for positive reinforcement during training or an orthopedic pad designed specifically to fit inside the crate.
Dimensions: 30.5 x 20.5 x 26 inches (medium) up to 48.5 x 32.5 x 36 inches (2XL) | Sizes: 5 (medium to 2XL) | Materials: Heavy-duty aluminum alloy, zinc-plated steel latches | Foldable: No (can be disassembled)
What you'll love: Guaranteed escape-proof construction
Lifetime guarantee covers any damage caused by your dog
Small ventilation holes for airflow
Specifically designed to reduce anxiety by providing a secure, enclosed environment
Keep in mind: Somewhat expensive
Heavy and not designed to move frequently
To be clear, if you have a well-behaved, calm pup, you don't need something like this crate. But for owners who know the frustration (and stress) of coming home to find their dog has broken out of another crate, hurt themselves in the process or damaged doors, walls or furniture in their panic, this crate is worth considering. Impact specifically built it for dogs who can escape anything and those who suffer severe separation anxiety.
It's constructed from extra-thick aluminum with heavy-duty butterfly latches and a reinforced door system. Even determined chewers and strong dogs won't easily break this crate apart, and if by some miracle your dog does, Impact covers replacement parts or even the entire crate for life. The smaller ventilation holes are specifically designed to prevent dogs from catching teeth or claws in the openings while still allowing adequate airflow. It's designed to help anxious dogs feel calmer and more secure by creating a darker, quieter space they can't break free from. Though expensive (it ranges from around $1,000 up to $1,600), for the right dog—one who has seriously struggled in standard crates—it may finally offer the peace of mind you've been looking for.
Dimensions: 20 x 14 x 14 inches (smallest) up to 42 x 28 x 32 inches (largest) | Weight: Not listed | Sizes: 5 (20-inch to 42-inch lengths) | Materials: 600D fabric, hex mesh fabric, steel tube frame | Foldable: Yes
What you'll love: Extremely lightweight and folds flat for easy storage and transport
Sets up in seconds without tools
Multiple zippered doors (front, side, top) for easy access
Keep in mind: Not suitable for dogs prone to chewing or escaping
Best for crate-trained dogs comfortable in soft-sided crates
My dog regularly stays overnight with family, and she's always preferred sleeping in her crate over settling loose at night. Rather than lugging around our heavier wire crate when traveling, we've used EliteField's soft-sided crate for years. It's lightweight, folds completely flat and slides right into our trunk, while leaving plenty of space for luggage or anything else we need. Setting it up takes just a few seconds; one person can pop it open and zip it together without needing help. Once assembled, the crate fits her regular crate bed nicely (though it does also include a fleece pad), and the zippered mesh doors let her easily walk in or out.
This crate works best for dogs like mine, who already feel comfortable in a crate and won't try chewing or clawing their way out. (Puppies or particularly determined escape artists might require something tougher.) But it's perfect for weekend trips or any travel where you want your dog's familiar sleeping spot without hauling around something bulky. There are even built-in accessory pockets and a washable cover, and some color options have roll-down curtains for dogs who prefer a quieter and more enclosed feel.
Dimensions: 24.5 x 18.6 x 19 inches (small) up to 40.25 x 28 x 33.25 inches (large) | Weight: 27 to 72 pounds | Sizes: 4 (small to large) | Materials: Double-walled rotomolded plastic, aluminum frame, stainless steel hardware | Foldable: No
What you'll love: Certified 5-star crash-tested by the Center for Pet Safety
Double-walled design provides twice the impact protection
Specifically built to withstand car accidents
Keep in mind: Heavy and bulky; takes up a lot of trunk space
Expensive, starting around $500 and going above $900 for larger sizes
If you regularly drive long distances with your dog, or safety is your number-one priority on the road, Gunner's G1 Kennel is worth the investment. It's one of very few dog crates tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS), earning the highest possible crash-test rating. Lindsey Wolko, founder of the CPS, emphasizes that a crate must be crash-tested and properly secured with strength-rated anchor straps (never bungee cords) to offer true protection in an accident. Gunner's crate passes these rigorous tests, making it one of the safest crates you can buy for traveling with your dog by car.
That said, this crate isn't the right choice for everyone. It's heavy (up to 72 pounds empty) and pretty cumbersome; once it's installed, you're probably not going to move it very often. If you only take short trips around town or need more trunk space for groceries, kids' stuff or luggage, this crate might feel like too much. Wolko suggests considering a crash-tested harness in those situations. But if you do travel often and want total peace of mind that your dog is safe on the road, the Gunner crate is among the best protection available. Its double-walled plastic frame and heavy-duty construction essentially guarantee your dog stays contained and safe, even in the event of a severe collision.
Dimensions: 26 x 20 x 23 inches (small) up to 42 x 29.5 x 34.4 inches (large) | Weight: Approximately 50 to 140 pounds | Sizes: 3 (small, medium, large) | Materials: Wood, metal or clear acrylic gate | Foldable: No
What you'll love: Looks more like furniture than a dog crate
Solid enough to use as a side table
Good ventilation keeps the inside airy
Keep in mind: Pricier than some other options on our list
Not for heavy chewers or anxious dogs
If you've spent years reluctantly decorating around a dog crate (or hiding it altogether), Fable's crate is probably the solution you've been looking for. It honestly looks more like an end table or a modern sideboard than a place for your dog to sleep, especially if you go with the clear acrylic gate option. (Just keep in mind that it's priced like a piece of furniture as well.)
The crate is super solid and can hold up to 300 pounds on top, so you can use it as a real piece of furniture without worrying about it collapsing. There's plenty of airflow through the small openings and it's designed to make your dog feel cozy and protected, not confined. (Though, realistically, if you add a comfy bed or a few blankets inside, you might sacrifice some of the ultra-minimal look you're paying for.)
I wouldn't recommend this crate if your dog has a history of chewing or scratching, or if they're prone to anxiety, since the wood and acrylic can scratch or show wear pretty quickly. It's also heavy, and you'll definitely need two people to put together the larger sizes. But if your dog is calm, already crate-trained and you really care about how their crate looks in your space, this is the nicest one you'll find.
The Forbes Vetted team includes dedicated pet parents who regularly research, test and recommend essential pet products, from the best dog harnesses to the best cooling dog beds. For this guide to the best dog crates, we leaned on firsthand experience with many of these models, comprehensive research and valuable insights from trusted veterinary and training professionals. This story was written by Forbes Vetted home and kitchen editor Kelly O'Sullivan, a lifelong dog owner who personally tested several crates featured here—including the Midwest Homes crate that her own dogs have used for more than 20 years, and the EliteField portable crate she relies on for overnight trips.
This story was edited by deputy home and kitchen editor Rebekah Lowin, who oversees all coverage of pet gear and has a deep understanding of how these products fit into our homes.
We consulted veterinary and training experts including Nicole Ellis, a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA), author, and former Celebrity Trainer on Amazon Prime's The Pack ; Lindsey Wolko, founder of the Center for Pet Safety; Crystal Litzenberger, CVT; and Rochelle Guardardo, animal training manager at Pasadena Humane. These experts provided detailed guidance on safety, crate sizing, materials, and suitability for various breeds and temperaments.
; Lindsey Wolko, founder of the Center for Pet Safety; Crystal Litzenberger, CVT; and Rochelle Guardardo, animal training manager at Pasadena Humane. These experts provided detailed guidance on safety, crate sizing, materials, and suitability for various breeds and temperaments. We regularly update this guide to ensure our recommendations remain current, accurate and relevant. This version was last reviewed and published in July 2025.
To find the best dog crates, we combined firsthand experience, extensive product research and direct input from veterinary and training professionals to ensure every recommendation meets high standards for safety and durability. We prioritized crates personally tested and recommended by Forbes Vetted editors and their own dogs, focusing on long-term durability, ease of use and comfort.
We interviewed veterinarians, professional dog trainers and pet safety experts to pinpoint exactly which features, such as secure latch mechanisms, reinforced construction, proper ventilation and materials, are most critical for various dog needs.
We thoroughly assessed each crate's size range, build quality, portability, ease of cleaning and overall functionality, highlighting crates suited to a variety of breeds, lifestyles and households.
We carefully reviewed feedback from real pet owners; every recommended crate on this list consistently receives strong reviews and maintains at least a 4-star average rating.
The right crate depends heavily on your dog's size, personality and needs. To ensure you're investing in one that suits your pet (and your home), here are the most important factors experts recommend prioritizing. Safety Features
Safety should always come first when choosing a dog crate, especially since your dog will likely spend time inside unsupervised. Ellis emphasizes looking closely at latch design. 'Secure latches are crucial, especially if your dog is prone to escaping,' she says. Good crates, like our top pick from Midwest Homes for Pets, use latches that are secure enough to keep your dog contained, but still simple for you to open quickly in an emergency.
It's also important to ensure crates have no sharp edges, pinch points or loose wires that could hurt your dog. Wolko, founder of the Center for Pet Safety, specifically advises examining wire crates for sturdy joints, rounded edges and secure clips rather than sharp corners or gaps where paws or jaws can get caught. Some crates, like the Diggs Revol Dog Crate, even include small but important safety features such as diamond-shaped steel mesh and rounded corners. Plastic crates have their own safety considerations. Wolko cautions against cheaper plastic crates because they're more likely to fracture or crack, creating sharp pieces that pose serious risks for dogs and their owners. Instead, she recommends crates with reinforced materials, metal hardware and strong structural integrity.
And if you're traveling by car, Wolko strongly recommends choosing crates specifically tested for crash safety, like the Gunner G1 Kennel, which is designed to withstand severe impacts and keep your dog secure even in an accident. Size And Adjustability
Choosing the correct size crate is crucial—not only for your dog's comfort but for their safety, too. "Dogs should be able to stand up comfortably, turn around without hunching and lie down while fully stretching their limbs," says Rochelle Guardardo, animal training manager at Pasadena Humane. Puppies grow fast, so Guardardo recommends sizing up earlier than you might expect, or opting for an adjustable crate with a divider panel, like our top overall pick from MidWest. For adult dogs, measure from their nose to the base of their tail, adding about six inches to find the ideal crate length. Material And Durability
Not all crate materials are ideal for every dog, so consider your pup's personality and habits. According to veterinary technician Crystal Litzenberger, CVT, wire crates like the MidWest or Diggs Revol provide excellent ventilation, which makes them ideal for larger or fluffier dogs prone to overheating. More enclosed crates might help calm anxious dogs, she says, because they offer less stimulation and more privacy. If your dog suffers from severe anxiety or has a history of escaping crates, consider investing in a heavy-duty, reinforced option like our recommended Impact High Anxiety crate. And while soft-sided crates, such as the EliteField, are lightweight and easy to transport, they're only a good option for dogs already comfortable being crated who won't try to chew or claw their way out.