Best Medium Size Dog Crate for 2026: Reviewed & Compared
Find the best medium size dog crate for your pup. We compare 7 top crates on size, durability, safety, and price with expert buying criteria.
Why the Right Medium Size Dog Crate Matters for Your Dog's Health
A properly sized crate isn't just a containment tool — it's a den, a recovery space, and a housetraining aid that taps into your dog's natural instinct to keep their sleeping area clean. For medium-breed dogs (typically 25–50 lb / 11–23 kg), a crate that's too large defeats the housetraining purpose, while one that's too small causes joint stress and anxiety.
According to the American Kennel Club, crate training reduces separation anxiety behaviors and provides a safe recovery environment post-surgery. The AVMA also notes that proper confinement prevents destructive behaviors that can lead to dental trauma and ingestion of household toxins.
The ideal medium size dog crate allows your dog to stand up without ducking, turn around in a full circle, and lie down stretched out — but not so much extra room that they can eliminate in one corner and sleep in another. For most medium breeds (Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, Border Collies, Bulldogs, Australian Shepherds), that means a crate approximately 30–36 inches long, 19–24 inches wide, and 21–27 inches tall.
- Interior dimensions: Measure your dog from nose to base of tail (+2–4 inches) and floor to top of head or ears (+2 inches). Use the larger measurement to select crate length.
- Material & construction: Wire crates offer ventilation and visibility; plastic (airline-style) crates feel more den-like; soft-sided crates suit calm, already-trained dogs only.
- Door configuration: Single-door crates work against walls; double-door crates offer flexible placement in rooms.
- Divider panel: Essential if buying for a growing puppy — lets you reduce interior space as they grow.
- Latch security: Look for slide-bolt or dual-locking mechanisms. Dogs with separation anxiety or high intelligence (Border Collies, Huskies) can learn to defeat simple latches.
- Weight capacity & durability: Check the manufacturer's stated weight limit and add a 10–15 lb buffer for active dogs who shift or jump inside.
- Tray material: ABS plastic pans are more durable than thin polypropylene; metal pans resist chewing but are heavier.
- Portability: Fold-flat designs with carry handles matter if you travel or need to store the crate.
How to Measure Your Dog for a Medium Size Dog Crate
Before comparing products, get accurate measurements. You need three numbers:
- Length: With your dog standing naturally, measure from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail (not the tail tip). Add 2–4 inches.
- Height: Measure from the floor to the top of the head (for floppy-eared breeds) or tip of the ears (for erect-eared breeds like Australian Shepherds). Add 2 inches.
- Width: Measure across the shoulders at the widest point. Add 2 inches.
Example: A typical 35 lb Beagle might measure 24 inches long, 18 inches tall, and 10 inches wide — pointing to a 30-inch crate. A stocky 45 lb Bulldog measuring 22 inches long but 20 inches tall and 16 inches wide might need a 36-inch crate to accommodate height and width.
A crate that's too small forces a dog into a hunched position, which over time can exacerbate hip dysplasia, IVDD (intervertebral disc disease), and arthritis — conditions common in medium breeds like Cocker Spaniels and Bulldogs. Conversely, oversized crates for untrained puppies invite housetraining setbacks. Always use a divider panel for growing dogs.
Never leave a collared dog unattended in a wire crate — collar tags can catch on wire gaps and cause strangulation. Remove collars before crating or use a breakaway collar.
Top 7 Medium Size Dog Crates Compared
We evaluated crates across durability, safety features, ease of assembly, ventilation, portability, and real-world value. All prices reflect typical retail ranges as of early 2026.
1. MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate (36-inch, Double Door)
Best for: First-time owners wanting an affordable, reliable wire crate
Interior dimensions: 36"L × 23"W × 25"H | Weight capacity: Up to 70 lb | Price range: $55–$75
Key features: Dual slide-bolt latches, fold-flat design, composite plastic pan, divider panel included, rounded corners, carry handle.
- ✅ Proven track record — one of the most widely recommended crates by trainers and shelters
- ✅ Divider panel included at no extra cost — excellent value for puppy buyers
- ✅ Replacement pans available separately ($15–$20)
- ❌ Composite pan is thin; determined chewers can crack it within weeks
- ❌ Wire gauge is lighter than premium options — not ideal for escape artists
- ❌ Latches can be learned by intelligent breeds (add a small carabiner clip as backup)
2. Frisco Ultimate Double Door Wire Crate (36-inch)
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who want a slightly sturdier build
Interior dimensions: 36"L × 23"W × 25"H | Weight capacity: Up to 70 lb | Price range: $48–$65
Key features: Heavy-duty slide-bolt latches, rounded corners, removable ABS plastic pan, fold-and-carry design, divider panel.
- ✅ ABS pan is more chew-resistant than MidWest's composite option
- ✅ Slightly tighter wire spacing (1.25" × 4.5") reduces paw-snagging risk
- ✅ Priced 10–15% below comparable MidWest models
- ❌ Available exclusively through Chewy — limits in-store inspection before purchase
- ❌ Customer service for warranty claims routes through Chewy, not a dedicated crate manufacturer
- ❌ Heavier than MidWest at approximately 28 lb vs 24 lb
3. ProSelect Empire Dog Crate (37-inch)
Best for: Escape-prone dogs and high-anxiety dogs who destroy standard wire crates
Interior dimensions: 37"L × 25"W × 33"H | Weight capacity: Up to 90 lb | Price range: $450–$600
Key features: 20-gauge steel construction, reinforced 0.5" diameter steel tube frame, dual slam-lock latches, floor grating with removable tray, caster wheels (lockable).
- ✅ Virtually escape-proof — the go-to crate for dogs who bend standard wire
- ✅ Steel floor grate prevents paw contact with waste and is easy to hose off
- ✅ Locking casters let you move it between rooms without disassembly
- ❌ Extremely heavy (76 lb) — not practical for travel or frequent relocation
- ❌ Premium price point is 8–10× the cost of standard wire crates
- ❌ Industrial appearance doesn't blend with home décor
4. Petmate Ultra Traditional Kennel (Intermediate, 32-inch)
Best for: Dogs who prefer a den-like enclosure and owners who fly domestically
Interior dimensions: 32"L × 22"W × 24"H | Weight capacity: Up to 50 lb | Price range: $65–$90
Key features: Heavy-duty plastic shell, wire door with squeeze latch, 360° ventilation slots, tie-down strap holes, built-in handle, meets most domestic airline cargo specifications.
- ✅ Enclosed design reduces visual stimulation — calmer for anxious dogs
- ✅ Accepted by most US domestic airlines for cargo travel (verify with carrier)
- ✅ Easy wipe-clean interior; no wire gaps to trap fur or debris
- ❌ Heavier than wire crates of comparable size (18 lb empty)
- ❌ Limited ventilation compared to wire crates — not ideal for brachycephalic breeds (Bulldogs, Pugs) in warm environments
- ❌ Squeeze latch can be defeated by persistent dogs; consider adding a zip tie or carabiner
5. EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Crate (36-inch)
Best for: Fully crate-trained, calm dogs who need a portable travel crate
Interior dimensions: 36"L × 24"W × 24"H | Weight capacity: Up to 70 lb | Price range: $50–$70
Key features: Steel tube frame with 600D polyester fabric, three mesh doors (top, front, side), fleece pad included, folds flat with carry bag, exterior storage pockets.
- ✅ Lightest option at just 11 lb — excellent for car trips and hotel stays
- ✅ Three door options allow flexible placement in vehicles and rooms
- ✅ Included fleece pad eliminates need for separate bedding purchase
- ❌ NOT suitable for untrained dogs, puppies, or chewers — fabric is easily destroyed
- ❌ Zippers are the weakest point; dogs can nose them open from inside
- ❌ No divider panel option — must buy correct final size
6. Impact Dog Crate (Collapsible, 36-inch)
Best for: Frequent travelers and owners who need a heavy-duty crate that still folds
Interior dimensions: 36"L × 23"W × 26"H | Weight capacity: Up to 75 lb | Price range: $350–$450
Key features: Aluminum construction, marine-grade slam latch, collapses to 8 inches flat, stackable design, IATA-compliant for most airlines, rubber feet to protect flooring.
- ✅ Folds completely flat in under 30 seconds without tools
- ✅ Aluminum won't rust — suitable for outdoor/patio use and humid climates
- ✅ Marine-grade latch resists tampering by even the most persistent dogs
- ❌ Premium price point, though lower than ProSelect Empire
- ❌ Aluminum bars are spaced wider than steel wire crates (2.5") — very small dogs could potentially push through
- ❌ No included pan — requires separate tray purchase ($25–$35)
7. Revol Dog Crate by Diggs (Medium, 37-inch)
Best for: Design-conscious owners who want a premium crate with innovative safety features
Interior dimensions: 37"L × 24"W × 26"H | Weight capacity: Up to 70 lb | Price range: $275–$325
Key features: Diamond-shaped wire mesh (prevents paw-snagging), garage-style door that rolls up and stows, built-in divider, wheeled base, single-hand operation latch, meets ANSI/BIFMA furniture safety standards.
- ✅ Diamond mesh pattern significantly reduces paw and snout injuries vs standard rectangular wire
- ✅ Garage door design eliminates swinging door that can hit walls or furniture
- ✅ Wheeled base with locking brakes makes repositioning effortless
- ❌ Higher price point than standard wire crates (4–5× the cost of a MidWest)
- ❌ Assembly is more complex — expect 20–30 minutes vs 5 minutes for basic wire crates
- ❌ Replacement parts are proprietary and must be ordered directly from Diggs
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Feature | MidWest iCrate | Frisco Ultimate | ProSelect Empire | Petmate Ultra | EliteField Soft | Impact Collapsible | Diggs Revol |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $55–$75 | $48–$65 | $450–$600 | $65–$90 | $50–$70 | $350–$450 | $275–$325 |
| Material | Steel wire | Steel wire | 20-gauge steel | Plastic + wire door | 600D polyester + steel frame | Aluminum | Steel diamond mesh |
| Weight (empty) | 24 lb | 28 lb | 76 lb | 18 lb | 11 lb | 32 lb | 35 lb |
| Divider Panel | ✅ Included | ✅ Included | ❌ Not available | ❌ Not available | ❌ Not available | ❌ Not available | ✅ Built-in |
| Escape Resistance | Low–Medium | Low–Medium | Very High | Medium | Very Low | High | High |
| Travel Friendly | Fold-flat | Fold-flat | ❌ No | ✅ Airline cargo | ✅ Ultra-light | ✅ Collapses to 8" | Wheeled base |
How to Use a Medium Size Dog Crate Safely and Effectively
Even the best crate becomes a welfare problem if used incorrectly. Follow these evidence-based steps rooted in positive reinforcement training:
- Days 1–3: Open-door exploration. Place the crate in a high-traffic family area with the door secured open. Drop high-value treats (freeze-dried liver, small cheese pieces) inside. Let the dog enter and exit freely. Do not close the door.
- Days 4–5: Door closure for seconds. Once the dog enters willingly, close the door for 3–5 seconds while you remain visible, then open and reward. Gradually extend to 30 seconds.
- Days 6–7: Short absences. Close the door, step out of sight for 1–2 minutes, return calmly, and reward quiet behavior. Ignore whining — opening the crate during whining teaches the dog that vocalization opens the door.
- Week 2: Meal feeding inside. Place the food bowl at the back of the crate. This builds a strong positive association. Close the door during meals and open it when finished.
- Week 3+: Extended crating. Build up to your target duration in increments of 15–20 minutes. Adult dogs should not be crated more than 6–8 hours total in a 24-hour period (including overnight).
Maximum crate time guidelines by age:
- 8–10 weeks: 30–60 minutes maximum
- 11–14 weeks: 1–3 hours maximum
- 15–16 weeks: 3–4 hours maximum
- 17+ weeks (adolescents/adults): 4–6 hours maximum during the day
These are maximums, not targets. Dogs need regular exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction outside the crate. If your work schedule requires longer confinement, consider a dog-proofed room with an exercise pen (x-pen) instead, or hire a midday dog walker.
Safety Considerations Every Crate Owner Should Know
- Remove all collars and harnesses before crating. Buckles, D-rings, and tags catch on wire gaps and have caused fatal strangulation. Use a breakaway collar if your dog must wear identification.
- Never stack crates unless using a manufacturer-designed stacking system (e.g., Impact Crate). A falling crate causes severe injury.
- Avoid placing crates near heat sources, direct sunlight through windows, or HVAC vents. Dogs cannot reposition to escape temperature extremes in a closed crate.
- Inspect wire joints monthly. Bent or broken wires create sharp edges that lacerate paws and snouts. File down any burrs immediately or replace the crate.
- Supervise initial chew toy use in crates. Dogs can break off pieces of rubber or nylon toys and choke. Remove any toy that shows teeth marks or fragmentation.
- Keep crates away from curtain cords, blind strings, and electrical cords that a dog could pull through the wire gaps.
Where to Buy and What You'll Actually Spend
Here's a realistic cost breakdown including the crate plus necessary accessories:
| Item | Budget Setup | Mid-Range Setup | Premium Setup |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crate (36-inch) | $48–$65 (Frisco/MidWest) | $65–$90 (Petmate) | $275–$450 (Diggs/Impact) |
| Crate pad or bed | $15–$25 | $30–$50 | $50–$80 |
| Cover (for wire crates) | $15–$20 | $25–$40 | Included or $45–$60 |
| Carabiner latch backup | $3–$5 | $3–$5 | N/A (premium latches) |
| Total first-year cost | $81–$115 | $123–$185 | $370–$590 |
Where to buy: MidWest and Frisco crates are available on Chewy, Amazon, and Petco. ProSelect Empire and Impact crates sell through their manufacturer websites and specialty retailers like K9 Crate. Diggs Revol is available direct from diggs.pet and select retailers. Petmate crates are widely available at PetSmart, Walmart, and online.
Alternatives to Traditional Dog Crates
A crate isn't the only confinement option. Depending on your dog's temperament and your living situation, these alternatives may work better:
- Exercise pens (x-pens): Metal or plastic panels that create a larger enclosed area (typically 16–32 sq ft). Better for dogs who panic in enclosed crates or for extended daytime confinement. The MidWest Exercise Pen (approximately $40–$60 for a 24-inch tall, 8-panel setup) is a popular option. Not suitable for housetraining since the large area allows elimination away from the sleeping spot.
- Dog-proofed room with baby gates: A laundry room or kitchen with gates at the doorway. Provides more space while preventing access to the whole house. Cost: $30–$60 for a quality pressure-mounted gate.
- Furniture-style crates: Wooden crates designed to double as end tables or nightstands (e.g., Casual Home Pet Crate End Table, $150–$250). Aesthetically pleasing but often less ventilated and harder to clean. Best for calm, fully trained dogs only — most are made of engineered wood that doesn't withstand chewing.
- DIY crate from a repurposed cabinet or wire shelving unit: Possible for handy owners, but ensure all surfaces are sanded smooth, no gaps exist where paws could get trapped, and ventilation is adequate. Never use pressure-treated wood (contains copper-based preservatives toxic if chewed).
When to Skip the Crate and See a Professional
Crates are management tools, not behavior cures. Some situations require professional intervention rather than a product purchase:
- Your dog shows self-injury in the crate — broken teeth, bloody paws, or torn nails from frantic escape attempts. This indicates severe confinement distress, not simple protest.
- Your dog eliminates in the crate and then lies in it consistently. This can signal a housetraining regression, urinary tract infection, or a dog from a puppy mill/pet store who learned to eliminate in their confinement area.
- Your dog has seizures, collapse, or difficulty breathing while crated. These are medical emergencies — call your veterinarian or an emergency clinic immediately.
- You need to crate your dog for more than 8 hours daily due to work schedules. Discuss alternatives with a veterinary behaviorist (DACVB) or certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA).
- Your dog shows new aggression when approached while in the crate. This is resource guarding of the crate space and requires professional counter-conditioning — not punishment.
For severe separation anxiety, medication prescribed by your veterinarian (such as fluoxetine or clomipramine combined with a desensitization protocol) is often more effective than any crate product. A crate alone will not resolve anxiety rooted in neurochemistry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best medium size dog crate overall?
For most dog owners, the MidWest iCrate 36-inch Double Door offers the best balance of price ($55–$75), features (included divider, fold-flat design), and proven reliability. If your dog is an escape artist, upgrade to the ProSelect Empire. If you want premium design and safety engineering, the Diggs Revol is the strongest choice in the mid-premium range.
How much does a medium size dog crate cost?
Standard wire crates in the 30–36 inch range cost $48–$90. Heavy-duty escape-proof crates run $350–$600. Soft-sided travel crates are $50–$70. Budget $80–$120 total for a complete setup including crate, pad, and cover.
How do I know if my dog's crate is the right size?
Your dog should be able to stand fully upright without their head or ears touching the top, turn in a complete circle without their body touching the sides, and lie down stretched out on their side. If there's enough room for them to eliminate in one corner and sleep in the opposite corner, the crate is too large for housetraining purposes — use a divider panel.
Is it cruel to crate a dog?
When introduced properly using positive reinforcement and used for appropriate durations (no more than 6–8 hours for adult dogs), crating is not cruel. Dogs are den animals by nature and many seek out enclosed spaces voluntarily. The cruelty lies in overuse — crating a dog for 10+ hours daily without adequate exercise and stimulation is harmful regardless of crate quality.
Can I use a crate for a brachycephalic breed like a Bulldog?
Yes, but prioritize ventilation. Wire crates or well-ventilated plastic crates are preferable to soft-sided or furniture-style crates. Brachycephalic breeds (Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers) have compromised airways due to brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), so airflow is critical. Never crate a brachycephalic dog in a warm environment without climate control.
Are there natural alternatives to crating for anxiety?
Adaptogen supplements (such as products containing L-theanine or ashwagandha), pheromone diffusers (Adaptil), and calming music (Through a Dog's Ear) can reduce mild anxiety but do not replace proper confinement training for safety. For moderate to severe anxiety, consult your veterinarian — prescription anti-anxiety medication combined with a behavior modification plan is the gold standard.
This article provides general guidance and product comparisons. It does not replace professional veterinary or behavioral advice. If your dog is injuring themselves, showing signs of severe distress, or exhibiting new behavioral changes, consult your veterinarian promptly.
Jonas Cole
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
