How Do You Crate Train a Dog? Best Crates & Tools for 2026
Learn how do you crate train a dog with confidence. We review the best crates, training tools, and step-by-step methods for stress-free success.
Why the Right Crate Makes or Breaks Training
The question most new owners ask is how do you crate train a dog — but the question they should ask first is whether they have the right crate for their dog's temperament, size, and training stage. A crate is not a one-size-fits-all tool. A fearful rescue dog will shut down in an exposed wire crate in a busy household but may settle beautifully in a covered plastic kennel. A power-chewing Labrador will destroy a soft-sided crate in minutes and potentially ingest dangerous materials.
Crate training leverages a dog's natural denning instinct. According to the American Kennel Club, when introduced properly, most dogs learn to view their crate as a safe retreat — a place where they choose to go voluntarily. The crate itself communicates security: enclosed walls, a consistent location, and familiar bedding. But the wrong crate — too large, too flimsy, too exposed — undermines that sense of safety and turns training into a battle of wills.
Here's what the evidence says: a 2020 study published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior found that dogs housed in appropriately sized crates with positive reinforcement protocols showed significantly lower cortisol levels during confinement compared to dogs in oversized or punishment-associated crates. The crate isn't the problem. The crate choice and the training methodology are what determine success or failure.
Top 7 Crates and Training Tools for Crate Training in 2026
1. MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Double Door (Best Overall Wire Crate)
Price: $45-$85 depending on size (24" to 54")
Key Features: Dual slide-bolt latches, rounded corners, composite plastic pan, fold-and-carry design, divider panel included, 1-year manufacturer warranty.
Pros:
- Divider panel lets you size down for puppies — buy once, use for life
- Rubber feet protect hardwood floors
- ABS plastic handles on top for carrying
- Available in 7 sizes covering 11-110+ lb dogs
Cons:
- Single slide-bolt latch per door (not dual-action) — clever dogs can learn to slide it
- Wire gauge is thinner than heavy-duty options — not escape-proof for determined Houdinis
- Plastic pan can crack under heavy chewers
2. ProSelect Empire Dog Crate (Best for Escape Artists and Power Chewers)
Price: $450-$600 (medium/large sizes)
Key Features: 20-gauge reinforced steel, 0.5" diameter steel tube frame, dual slide-bolt latches with padlock holes, hammered-tone finish, steel tray floor, casters (removable).
Pros:
- Virtually indestructible — tested against dogs up to 150 lb with separation anxiety
- Locking casters make it stationary when needed, mobile when cleaning
- Grate floor with tray underneath keeps dog off waste (useful for untrained puppies during overnight)
Cons:
- Extremely heavy (75-95 lb empty) — not portable
- Premium price point is 5-8x a standard wire crate
- Industrial aesthetic doesn't suit every home
- Only available in medium (37") and large (42")
3. Petmate Ultra Traditional Vari Kennel (Best Plastic Travel Crate)
Price: $35-$90 depending on size (19" to 48")
Key Features: Two-tone heavy-duty plastic, wire ventilation windows on rear and sides, secure squeeze-latch door, built-in handle, meets most IATA airline cargo specifications (verify with your carrier).
Pros:
- Enclosed design feels more den-like — excellent for anxious dogs
- Lightweight yet sturdy — easy to move between rooms
- Squeeze-latch is harder for dogs to manipulate than slide bolts
- Airline-compatible for cargo travel on most major carriers
Cons:
- Limited visibility — some dogs feel trapped rather than secure
- No divider panel option — must buy correct final size
- Plastic shell can retain odors if not cleaned regularly
4. EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate (Best for Travel and Trained Dogs)
Price: $40-$65 depending on size
Key Features: Steel tube frame with 600D fabric cover, three mesh doors (front, top, side), fleece bed and carrying bag included, folds flat in seconds, mesh windows on all panels.
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight (8-15 lb) — ideal for car trips, hotel stays, visiting family
- Three access points let you load a nervous dog from the top
- Machine-washable cover
- Excellent ventilation on all sides
Cons:
- NOT suitable for untrained puppies or chewers — fabric is destroyed in minutes
- Zipper doors can be scratched open by determined dogs
- No containment value — this is a "trained dog comfort crate," not a training crate
5. Impact Dog Crate Collapsible Model (Best Heavy-Duty Collapsible)
Price: $550-$750
Key Features: Aluminum construction, military-grade latches, collapses to 8" flat without tools, stackable design, rounded interior corners, lifetime warranty.
Pros:
- Heavy-duty containment that still folds — unique combination
- Aluminum won't rust — suitable for outdoor or garage use
- Used by professional trainers, K9 units, and working dog handlers
- Lifetime warranty against manufacturer defects
Cons:
- Very expensive — more than most owners need for basic crate training
- Still heavy (40-55 lb) even though it folds
- Long lead times — often 4-6 weeks to ship due to made-to-order production
6. Frisco Double Door Wire Crate with Divider Panel (Best Budget Pick)
Price: $30-$60 (Chewy exclusive)
Key Features: Electro-coated wire, dual slide-bolt latches, removable plastic pan, divider panel, fold-flat design, top and front door access.
Pros:
- Most affordable crate that still includes a divider panel
- Electro-coating resists rust better than basic paint finishes
- Same core functionality as mid-range crates at a lower price
Cons:
- Wire gauge is thinner than MidWest or ProSelect
- Plastic pan is thinner and more prone to cracking
- Only available through Chewy — limited in-store availability
7. Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Toy (Best Training Aid Add-On)
Price: $30-$45
Key Features: Real-feel heartbeat simulator with heat pack, machine-washable plush body, batteries last 24+ hours of continuous use, designed to reduce crying and anxiety in crated puppies.
Pros:
- Clinically shown to reduce separation distress behaviors in puppies during first crate nights
- Heat + heartbeat mimics littermate presence — eases transition from breeder/shelter
- Useful beyond crate training — also helps with thunderstorm anxiety and vet visit recovery
Cons:
- Battery replacement adds ongoing cost (approximately $15/year)
- Not a substitute for proper gradual crate training — it's a supplement
- Some dogs chew and destroy the plush exterior within weeks
Side-by-Side Crate Comparison
| Product | Type | Best For | Price Range | Escape Resistance | Portability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MidWest iCrate Double Door | Wire | Most dogs, first-time owners | $45-$85 | Moderate | High (folds flat) |
| ProSelect Empire | Heavy-duty steel | Escape artists, power chewers | $450-$600 | Very High | Very Low (75+ lb) |
| Petmate Vari Kennel | Plastic | Anxious dogs, air travel | $35-$90 | High | Moderate |
| EliteField 3-Door Soft | Soft-sided | Trained dogs, travel | $40-$65 | Very Low | Very High (8-15 lb) |
| Impact Collapsible | Aluminum heavy-duty | Working dogs, severe anxiety | $550-$750 | Very High | Moderate (folds, but heavy) |
| Frisco Double Door | Wire | Budget-conscious owners | $30-$60 | Moderate | High (folds flat) |
| Snuggle Puppy | Training aid (toy) | Puppy crying, first nights | $30-$45 | N/A | Very High |
How to Crate Train Your Dog: A Step-by-Step Protocol
This protocol uses positive reinforcement exclusively. The ASPCA and the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior both recommend force-free crate introduction methods. Never use the crate as punishment — this destroys the positive association you're building.
Phase 1: Exploration (Days 1-3)
- Place the crate in a high-traffic family area (living room, kitchen) with the door secured open.
- Drop high-value treats (freeze-dried liver, small cheese pieces) inside without saying anything. Let your dog discover them independently.
- Feed meals near the crate, then gradually move the bowl inside — first at the threshold, then fully inside by day 3.
- Do NOT close the door during this phase.
Phase 2: Door Closing (Days 4-7)
- Once your dog enters voluntarily for meals, close the door while they eat. Open it immediately when they finish.
- Extend closed-door time by 30-second increments after each meal. If your dog shows distress (whining, pawing), you moved too fast — go back one step.
- Begin using a cue word: "kennel," "crate," or "go to bed" — pick one and stay consistent.
- Toss a stuffed Kong or long-lasting chew inside and close the door for 5-10 minutes while you sit nearby.
Phase 3: Short Absences (Days 8-14)
- Leave the room for 1 minute while your dog is crated with a chew toy. Return calmly — no excited greeting.
- Increase absence by 2-5 minute increments. If your dog remains calm, continue extending. If they panic, reduce duration and proceed more slowly.
- Practice at different times of day — not just before you leave the house — so crating doesn't become a "you're leaving" predictor.
Phase 4: Extended Confinement (Weeks 3-6)
- Work up to 30-60 minute crating sessions while home, then begin leaving the house for short errands (15-30 minutes).
- 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 can typically handle 4-6 hours during the day.
- Always provide water via a clip-on bottle or no-spill bowl for sessions exceeding 1 hour.
Overnight Crate Training: Place the crate in or near your bedroom for the first 2-4 weeks. Puppies will need a potty break once or twice overnight until about 12-16 weeks of age. Set an alarm for 3-4 hours after bedtime for puppies under 4 months. Take them directly outside, then directly back to the crate — no play sessions at 2 AM.
Safety Considerations and Warnings
Critical Safety Rules for Crate Use:
- Remove collars before crating. Buckle collars, martingales, and especially choke chains can snag on crate wire and cause strangulation. Use a breakaway collar or remove the collar entirely.
- Never leave a harness on in a wire crate. Harness straps and D-rings catch on wire edges. Remove all gear except a flat, well-fitting bandana if you want identification.
- Check wire spacing. For small breeds and puppies, ensure wire spacing is no more than 1.5" apart to prevent head entrapment. Brachycephalic breeds (pugs, French bulldogs) have wider heads relative to body size — measure before buying.
- Temperature monitoring. Crates in direct sunlight or near heating vents can become dangerously hot. Wire crates offer no insulation. Keep ambient temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C).
- Maximum crating duration. Adult dogs should not be crated more than 6-8 hours in a 24-hour period. Puppies under 6 months need breaks every 2-4 hours. Extended confinement leads to urinary tract issues, muscle atrophy, and behavioral deterioration.
- Inspect regularly. Check for bent wires, loose latches, cracked plastic pans, and frayed fabric. Replace damaged crates immediately — sharp edges cause lacerations and broken teeth.
When Crate Training Isn't Working: Alternatives and Vet Referrals
Sometimes the problem isn't the crate — it's underlying anxiety that requires professional intervention. Here's when to pivot:
Natural and DIY Alternatives to Crate Confinement:
- Exercise pen (x-pen) setup: A 4-8 panel wire exercise pen creates a larger contained area. Useful for dogs who panic in enclosed spaces but still need confinement. Pair with a potty pad area and a bed zone. Cost: $35-$80 for a 24"-high, 8-panel setup.
- Baby gate room restriction: Gate off a puppy-proofed room (bathroom, laundry room) instead of using a crate. Provides more space while maintaining boundaries. Works well for dogs with mild confinement distress.
- Calming supplements: Products containing L-theanine (200-400 mg for medium dogs), melatonin (1-3 mg), or hemp-derived CBD (0.2-0.5 mg/kg) may reduce crate anxiety. Consult your veterinarian before starting any supplement — dosing varies significantly by product and dog weight.
- Adaptil pheromone diffuser: A synthetic dog-appeasing pheromone (DAP) plug-in near the crate can reduce stress behaviors. Clinical trials show approximately 30-40% reduction in anxiety-related behaviors. Cost: $25-$35 for a 30-day refill.
When to Skip DIY and See a Veterinarian or Behaviorist:
- Your dog injures themselves attempting to escape (broken teeth, torn nails, bloody paws) — this indicates severe confinement distress, not stubbornness
- Panic behaviors (screaming, diarrhea, excessive drooling) persist beyond 2 weeks of consistent positive reinforcement training
- Your dog shows aggression when approached near the crate — resource guarding of the crate space requires professional behavior modification
- You're considering sedation or prescription anti-anxiety medication (fluoxetine, trazodone, clomipramine) — these require veterinary oversight and cannot be obtained OTC
- Separation anxiety is the root cause — a certified veterinary behaviorist (DACVB) or certified applied animal behaviorist (CAAB) can design a comprehensive treatment plan beyond crate training
If your dog's distress is severe, consult your veterinarian before continuing crate training. In some cases, forced confinement worsens anxiety and a behaviorist-guided desensitization protocol — which may temporarily avoid crate use entirely — is the more humane path.
Where to Buy and What You'll Spend
Here's a realistic budget breakdown for a complete crate training setup:
| Item | Budget Option | Mid-Range | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary crate | $30-$50 (Frisco, basic wire) | $50-$90 (MidWest, Petmate) | $450-$750 (ProSelect, Impact) |
| Crate pad/bedding | $10-$15 (fleece pad) | $20-$40 (orthopedic foam) | $40-$80 (chew-proof Kuranda) |
| Crate cover | $15-$20 (universal fit) | $25-$40 (breathable, branded) | $50-$70 (insulated, custom fit) |
| Training treats (monthly) | $8-$12 (kibble, cheese bits) | $12-$20 (freeze-dried liver) | $20-$35 (artisan training treats) |
| Stuffed Kong / chew toys | $8-$12 (one Kong Classic) | $15-$25 (Kong + West Paw Toppl) | $30-$50 (variety puzzle toys) |
| Total first-month cost | $71-$109 | $122-$215 | $590-$985 |
Most dog owners fall in the mid-range tier and spend approximately $120-$200 for a complete crate training setup. The premium tier is reserved for dogs with severe behavioral issues or working dogs who need indestructible containment.
Where to buy: Wire and plastic crates are widely available at Chewy, Amazon, Petco, and PetSmart. Heavy-duty crates (ProSelect, Impact) are typically sold direct from the manufacturer's website. The Snuggle Puppy is available at Chewy, Amazon, and some veterinary offices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best crate for crate training a dog?
For most dogs and first-time owners, the MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Double Door offers the best balance of price, features, and availability. It includes a divider panel for growing puppies, folds for storage, and fits dogs from 11 to 110+ lb across its size range. For dogs who destroy standard crates, the ProSelect Empire is the gold standard — expensive but virtually escape-proof.
How do I choose the right crate size?
Measure your dog's length (nose to base of tail, add 2-4 inches) and height (floor to top of head, add 2-3 inches). Your dog must be able to stand, turn around, and lie stretched out — but should not have enough excess space to eliminate in one end and sleep in the other. For puppies, buy the adult-size crate and use the included divider panel to reduce space as they grow. Common sizing: 24" crate for dogs under 25 lb, 30" for 26-40 lb, 36" for 41-70 lb, 42" for 71-90 lb, 48" for 90+ lb.
How long does crate training take?
Most dogs become comfortable with short crating sessions (30-60 minutes) within 2-3 weeks of daily positive reinforcement practice. Full reliability for overnight and extended absences (4-6 hours) typically takes 4-8 weeks. Puppies under 4 months may take longer due to limited bladder control. Dogs with prior negative crate experiences or severe anxiety may require 2-6 months with professional guidance.
Is it cruel to crate a dog?
No — when done correctly. The American Veterinary Medical Association recognizes crate training as an appropriate management tool when used humanely. The key factors are appropriate duration (never exceeding 6-8 hours for adults), positive association (never used as punishment), proper sizing, and adequate exercise and enrichment outside the crate. Dogs who are crate-trained using force-free methods often seek out their crate voluntarily as a resting place.
Should I cover the crate at night?
Many dogs settle better with a covered crate — it reduces visual stimulation and creates a more den-like environment. Use a fitted crate cover or a breathable blanket draped over the top and two sides, leaving the front door partially uncovered for airflow. Never fully seal the crate — ventilation is critical. If your dog pulls the cover inside through the bars, switch to a secured fitted cover designed for your crate model.
My dog whines in the crate — should I let them out?
This depends on context. If your dog needs to eliminate (puppies under 4 months, dogs crated 4+ hours), take them out immediately and go straight outside. If the whining is protest-based (they were recently outside, have a chew toy, and you've only been gone 10 minutes), wait for a brief pause in vocalization before releasing — this teaches that quiet, not whining, opens the door. Never release a panicking dog mid-scream, as this reinforces the escalation pattern. Instead, wait for even a 2-second pause.
Priya Sutaria
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
