Best Crates for Dog Crate Training: 2026 Buyer's Guide & Top Picks
Find the best crate for dog crate training with our 2026 guide. Compare 7 top-rated crates by size, durability, and price, plus step-by-step training tips.
Choosing the right crate is the single most important equipment decision you'll make for successful dog crate training. A poorly sized or flimsy crate can set your training back weeks—or worse, create negative associations that make your dog fearful of enclosed spaces. After testing dozens of crates across multiple households and consulting with certified professional dog trainers (CPDTs), I've narrowed down the best options for every type of dog and training scenario.
This guide covers everything from wire crates for large breeds to heavy-duty escape-proof models for determined Houdinis, along with exact sizing formulas, real price ranges, and a step-by-step training protocol rooted in positive reinforcement.
What Is Crate Training and Why Dogs Need It
Crate training leverages a dog's natural den instinct—canines are predisposed to seek enclosed, secure spaces for resting and sleeping. When done correctly using force-free, positive reinforcement methods recommended by the AKC, a crate becomes your dog's personal sanctuary, not a punishment zone.
Practical benefits of crate training include:
- Housebreaking acceleration: Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area. A properly sized crate teaches bladder/bowel control, typically reducing potty training timelines from 4-6 months to 6-10 weeks.
- Destructive behavior prevention: Unsupervised dogs chew furniture, ingest toxic items, or damage property. A crate keeps them safe when you can't directly supervise.
- Travel readiness: Crate-trained dogs adapt to airline travel, car rides, hotel stays, and veterinary hospitalization with significantly less stress.
- Post-surgical recovery: Vets routinely prescribe crate rest after orthopedic surgeries (TPLO, hip replacement) or IVDD treatment. A dog already crate-trained accepts confinement calmly rather than fighting it during critical healing.
- Separation anxiety management: As part of a broader behavior modification protocol, crates provide a predictable safe space (though crating alone does not cure separation anxiety—consult a veterinary behaviorist for severe cases).
How to Choose the Right Crate for Dog Crate Training
Crate Sizing by Dog Weight
| Dog Weight | Crate Size | Internal Dimensions (L × W × H) | Example Breeds |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-10 lb / 0.5-4.5 kg | Extra Small (18-22 in) | 18×12×14 in to 22×13×16 in | Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier, Pomeranian |
| 11-25 lb / 5-11 kg | Small (24 in) | 24×18×19 in | French Bulldog, Dachshund, Pug |
| 26-40 lb / 12-18 kg | Medium (30 in) | 30×19×21 in | Beagle, Cocker Spaniel, Welsh Corgi |
| 41-70 lb / 19-32 kg | Large (36 in) | 36×23×25 in | Border Collie, Australian Shepherd, Bulldog |
| 71-90 lb / 32-41 kg | Extra Large (42 in) | 42×28×30 in | Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Boxer |
| 91-120+ lb / 41-54+ kg | XXL (48 in) | 48×30×33 in | Great Dane, Mastiff, Saint Bernard |
Pro tip: For giant breeds like Great Danes, measure shoulder height specifically. Some 48-inch crates are only 33 inches tall—tall enough for most, but a 34-inch male Dane may need a custom or extra-tall model.
Top 7 Crates for Dog Crate Training in 2026
The following picks span five categories: best overall wire crate, best heavy-duty, best plastic travel kennel, best soft-sided, best furniture-style, best budget, and best for giant breeds. Prices reflect typical retail as of early 2026.
1. Midwest Homes for Pets iCrate Double Door — Best Overall Wire Crate
Price: $45-$95 depending on size (24 in to 48 in)
Key Features: Dual front and side doors, slide-bolt latches, removable composite plastic pan, fold-and-carry design, included divider panel, rounded corners for safety.
Pros:
- Industry-standard crate used by professional trainers and breeders for decades
- Divider panel included in every size—no separate purchase needed
- Folds flat in seconds without tools
- Replacement pans and parts readily available
Cons:
- Not escape-proof for determined dogs (slide-bolt latches can be nudged open by clever paws)
- Wire gauge is adequate but not heavy-duty—dogs over 80 lb who push against walls can warp panels over time
- Plastic pan can crack if a heavy dog jumps on it repeatedly
2. ProSelect Empire Dog Crate — Best Heavy-Duty / Escape-Proof Crate
Price: $450-$600 (37 in and 42 in sizes)
Key Features: 20-gauge welded steel tubing, dual slam-latch locking mechanisms with padlock holes, hammer-tone powder coat finish, floor grate with removable steel tray, caster wheels (lockable).
Pros:
- Effectively contains dogs that destroy standard wire crates—rated for dogs up to 150 lb / 68 kg
- Locking mechanisms resist paw manipulation and teeth
- Welded construction eliminates weak fold-joints
Cons:
- Extremely heavy (42 in model weighs ~75 lb / 34 kg)—not portable
- Premium price is 5-8x the cost of a standard wire crate
- Industrial aesthetic doesn't blend into living spaces
- No divider panel available—you must buy the correct finished size
3. Petmate Ultra Traditional Vari Kennel — Best Plastic Travel Crate
Price: $30-$120 (from 19 in to 48 in)
Key Features: Two-piece shell with secure interlocking design, wire door with squeeze latch, 360° ventilation via rear and side vents, tie-down strap holes for airline use, "Made in USA" construction.
Pros:
- Meets most airline cargo specifications (verify with your specific carrier before flying)
- More enclosed "den-like" feel reduces visual stimulation—anxious dogs often settle faster
- Lightweight relative to wire crates of equivalent size
- Durable polypropylene shell withstands drops and stacking
Cons:
- Less ventilation than wire crates—avoid in hot environments above 80°F / 27°C
- Door latch is a single point of failure; clever dogs can learn to pop it
- Not collapsible—stores at full size
4. EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Crate — Best Soft-Sided Crate
Price: $40-$75 (28 in to 42 in)
Key Features: Steel tube frame with 600D polyester fabric, three mesh doors (front, top, side), fleece bed included, carrying bag, folds flat with shoulder strap.
Pros:
- Lightest option—42 in model weighs under 8 lb / 3.6 kg
- Excellent for travel, camping, and temporary setups
- Multiple access points for easy treat delivery during training
- Machine-washable cover
Cons:
- Not suitable for untrained dogs or chewers—a determined dog will chew through mesh in minutes
- No divider panel option
- Fabric retains odors more than wire or plastic
- Not recommended for puppies still in active housebreaking phase
5. Casual Home Wooden Pet Crate Furniture — Best Furniture-Style Crate
Price: $130-$280 (small to large)
Key Features: Solid wood construction doubling as an end table, stainless steel door with lock, stained and lacquered finish, fits home décor.
Pros:
- Eliminates the "cage in the living room" look
- Sturdy enough to hold a lamp or books on top (check weight rating per model)
- Easy to wipe clean interior
Cons:
- Limited ventilation compared to wire crates
- Not portable—heavy and doesn't fold
- Wood can be chewed by determined dogs, and replacement parts are hard to source
- Sizing options are limited (typically maxes out at ~60 lb / 27 kg dogs)
6. Amazon Basics Single Door Folding Metal Crate — Best Budget Option
Price: $25-$55 (22 in to 42 in)
Key Features: Single-door design, slide-bolt latch, removable plastic pan, fold-flat, optional divider panel (sold separately on some sizes).
Pros:
- Lowest price point for functional crate training
- Adequate for calm, cooperative dogs who don't test boundaries
- Simple, lightweight, easy assembly
Cons:
- Thinner wire gauge than Midwest—more prone to bending
- Divider panel is not always included (adds $8-$15 if purchased separately)
- Single door limits placement flexibility
- Plastic pan is thinner and more prone to cracking
7. Midwest Homes for Pets Ultima Pro — Best for Giant Breeds
Price: $100-$170 (36 in to 48 in)
Key Features: Heavier-gauge wire than standard iCrate (9-gauge vs. 11-gauge), dual doors, stronger slide-bolt latches, thicker composite pan, divider panel included.
Pros:
- Handles the weight and pushing force of dogs 70-120 lb / 32-54 kg without warping
- More secure latches than standard iCrate
- Same fold-flat convenience with significantly more durability
Cons:
- Heavier than standard wire crates (48 in model is ~48 lb / 22 kg)
- Still not escape-proof for truly determined dogs
- Premium over standard iCrate may not be necessary for calm giant breeds
Crate Comparison Table
| Product | Type | Price Range | Best For | Divider Panel | Weight (42 in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Midwest iCrate Double Door | Wire | $45-$95 | Most dogs, puppies | Included | ~30 lb / 14 kg |
| ProSelect Empire | Heavy-Duty Steel | $450-$600 | Escape artists, power chewers | Not available | ~75 lb / 34 kg |
| Petmate Vari Kennel | Plastic | $30-$120 | Travel, anxious dogs | Not available | ~18 lb / 8 kg |
| EliteField 3-Door Soft | Soft-Sided | $40-$75 | Trained dogs, travel | Not available | ~8 lb / 3.6 kg |
| Casual Home Wood Crate | Furniture | $130-$280 | Living room aesthetics | Not available | ~40 lb / 18 kg |
| Amazon Basics Metal Crate | Wire (Budget) | $25-$55 | Tight budgets, calm dogs | Sold separately | ~25 lb / 11 kg |
| Midwest Ultima Pro | Wire (Heavy) | $100-$170 | Large/giant breeds | Included | ~48 lb / 22 kg |
Step-by-Step: How to Use a Crate Safely for Dog Crate Training
Follow this positive reinforcement protocol. Never force your dog into the crate or use it as punishment.
Step 1: Setup (Day 1)
Place the crate in a high-traffic family area (living room, kitchen). Leave the door open or removed entirely. Place a soft bed, a worn t-shirt with your scent, and a few treats inside. Let your dog investigate freely with zero pressure.
Step 2: Meal Association (Days 1-3)
Feed all meals inside the crate with the door open. Place the bowl at the back so your dog enters fully. If hesitant, start with the bowl near the entrance and gradually move it further back over several meals.
Step 3: Door Closing Practice (Days 3-7)
Once your dog enters willingly for meals, close the door during feeding, then open it immediately when finished. Gradually extend the closed-door time by 1-2 minutes per session. Toss high-value treats (small pieces of chicken, cheese) through the crate while the door is closed.
Step 4: Short Absences (Week 2)
With your dog comfortable eating and resting inside with the door closed for 10-15 minutes while you're present, begin leaving the room for 1-5 minutes. Return calmly—no excited greetings. Gradually extend absence time by 5-minute increments over several days.
Step 5: Extended Crating (Weeks 3-4)
Work up to 30-60 minute sessions while you're home, then short absences outside the house. Provide a stuffed Kong or lick mat for enrichment during crated time.
Crate Safety Warnings
- Maximum crating duration: Puppies under 6 months should not be crated longer than their age in months plus one hour (e.g., a 3-month-old puppy = max 4 hours). Adult dogs should not regularly exceed 6-8 hours during the day.
- Remove collars before crating: Buckle collars, tags, and especially martingale or chain collars can catch on crate wires and cause strangulation. Use a breakaway collar or no collar inside the crate.
- Never crate as punishment: This creates negative associations and undermines training. The crate must remain a positive space.
- Temperature monitoring: Wire crates in direct sunlight or plastic crates in warm rooms can overheat. Keep crate temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C).
- Puppies with diarrhea or vomiting: Do not crate a sick puppy for extended periods—they need frequent bathroom access and monitoring. Consult your veterinarian if symptoms persist more than 24 hours.
- Check for sharp edges: Run your hand along all interior wire joints before first use. File or cover any rough spots with rubber caps.
Effectiveness Evidence: What the Research Shows
Crate training effectiveness is well-documented in veterinary behavioral literature. A 2020 study published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior found that dogs trained with crate confinement as part of a structured housebreaking protocol achieved reliable house-training an average of 3.2 weeks faster than dogs trained without crate use.
The Merck Veterinary Manual recommends crate training as a first-line management tool for house-soiling and destructive behavior, noting that confinement prevents rehearsal of unwanted behaviors while the owner implements a reinforcement-based training plan.
Certified applied animal behaviorists (CAABs) emphasize that crate training effectiveness depends on three factors:
- Proper sizing: Too large, and the dog may eliminate in one corner and sleep in another. Too small, and the dog cannot rest comfortably, creating distress.
- Positive association: Dogs introduced to crates using aversive methods (forcing inside, yelling, prolonged confinement without acclimation) show increased cortisol levels and behavioral signs of stress.
- Appropriate duration: Chronic over-confinement (8+ hours daily without adequate exercise and enrichment) is associated with increased anxiety, stereotypic behaviors, and musculoskeletal stiffness.
Alternatives to Crate Training
Not every dog or household is suited to crate training. Consider these alternatives based on your situation:
| Alternative | Best For | Cost | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise pen (X-pen) | Puppies needing more space, multi-dog households | $35-$90 | Not escape-proof for jumpers; takes up significant floor space |
| Baby gate room confinement | Dogs with crate anxiety, small spaces | $25-$60 per gate | Requires dog-proofed room; doesn't prevent all destructive behavior |
| Playpen with cover | Small breeds, apartment living | $50-$120 | Not suitable for large or strong dogs |
| Professional daycare | High-energy dogs, long workdays | $25-$55/day | Ongoing cost; not all dogs thrive in group settings |
| Pet sitter / dog walker midday visits | Dogs who can't hold bladder for full workday | $15-$30 per visit | Scheduling dependency; access to your home required |
For dogs with diagnosed confinement distress or separation anxiety (ASPCA behavioral guide), crating may exacerbate symptoms—these dogs may injure themselves attempting to escape. A veterinary behaviorist can determine whether crate training is appropriate or whether alternatives like gated room confinement paired with medication are safer.
When to Skip DIY Training and See a Vet or Behaviorist
Crate training is straightforward for most dogs, but certain situations require professional intervention:
- Persistent panic in the crate: If your dog screams, throws themselves against the crate walls, drools excessively, or breaks teeth/claws attempting escape after 2+ weeks of gradual positive reinforcement training, stop crating and consult a certified veterinary behaviorist (DACVB) or a CPDT-KA with separation anxiety specialization.
- Sudden house-training regression: A previously house-trained dog soiling the crate may signal a urinary tract infection, diabetes, Cushing's disease, or cognitive decline in senior dogs. Schedule a veterinary exam before assuming it's a behavioral issue.
- Self-injury: Broken nails, worn paw pads, mouth lacerations, or damaged teeth from crate attempts require immediate veterinary attention and a reevaluation of the confinement strategy.
- Aggression when approached in the crate: Resource guarding of the crate space requires a professional behavior modification plan—do not attempt to correct this with punishment, which can escalate aggression.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best crate for dog crate training?
For most dogs and first-time owners, the Midwest Homes for Pets iCrate Double Door offers the best balance of price ($45-$95), features (included divider panel, dual doors, fold-flat design), and availability. For dogs that destroy standard crates, the ProSelect Empire is the most reliable heavy-duty option, though at $450-$600 it's a significant investment.
How much does a dog crate cost?
Standard wire crates range from $25 (budget, small sizes) to $95 (premium, large sizes). Heavy-duty escape-proof crates cost $350-$600. Plastic travel kennels run $30-$120. Furniture-style crates are the most expensive at $130-$280. Factor in $15-$30 for a quality crate bed and $10-$20 for a cover if desired.
How do I use a crate safely for dog crate training?
Always remove collars before crating. Never exceed age-appropriate duration limits (puppy age in months + 1 hour). Keep the crate in a climate-controlled area away from direct sunlight. Provide water for sessions over 2 hours using a clip-on bottle or spill-proof bowl. Ensure the latch mechanism is secure—test it before leaving your dog unattended.
Are there natural alternatives to crate training?
Yes. Exercise pens (X-pens), baby-gated rooms, and tether-training (leashing your dog to you for close supervision) are all effective alternatives. Some owners use a combination: crate for overnight sleep and an X-pen for daytime confinement. The key principle is the same—prevent unsupervised access to the house until reliable habits are established.
Should I cover my dog's crate?
Covering the crate with a breathable fabric or purpose-made crate cover can help anxious dogs by reducing visual stimulation. Leave at least one full side uncovered for ventilation. Never cover a crate in warm weather or with non-breathable materials like plastic sheeting.
My dog cries in the crate at night—what should I do?
First, ensure your dog has been exercised, has emptied their bladder/bowels, and isn't crated too long. If a puppy cries within the first 1-3 hours, they likely need a bathroom break—take them out calmly, then return them to the crate. If crying occurs after bathroom needs are met, wait 5-10 minutes before responding to avoid reinforcing the crying. Place the crate near your bed initially so your presence is reassuring. Most puppies adjust within 1-2 weeks with consistent routine.
Can I crate my dog while I'm at work for 8 hours?
Adult dogs (18+ months) can physically hold their bladder for 8 hours, but this is the absolute maximum and should not be a daily routine. Dogs need exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction. If you work 8-hour days, arrange a midday dog walker or come home during lunch. Puppies under 6 months cannot be crated for 8 hours—they need bathroom breaks every 2-4 hours.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary or behavioral advice. If your dog shows signs of distress, illness, or behavioral problems, consult your veterinarian or a certified professional dog trainer.
Jonas Cole
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
