Best Dog Crates of 2024: Top 10 Picks & Accessories
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Are you hunting for the perfect dog crate or kennel accessory for your pup?
Look no further.
As a seasoned dog expert with extensive hands-on experience in the dog world, I’ve had the opportunity to test and evaluate a myriad of dog crates and accessories.
From sturdy and secure metal crates for escape artists to cozy and portable options for travel enthusiasts, this list has something for every type of dog and dog owner.
Plus, I’ve included some top-notch accessories that enhance the crate experience, ensuring your dog feels at home, whether lounging in their personal space or tagging along on adventures.
Let’s dive into these expert recommendations and find the perfect solution to make your dog’s crate a haven of comfort and security.
At a Glance:
 | Wire: Midwest Homes Review | Starts at $25 See Prices |
 | Heavy-Duty: TNC Crate Review | Starts at $825 See Prices |
 | Plastic: Petmate Vari Review | Starts at $82 See Prices |
 | Collapsible: Diggs Revol Review | Starts at $243 See Prices |
 | Soft: EliteField Review | Starts at $54 See Prices |
 | For Small Dogs: Fable Review | Starts at $495 See Prices |
 | Car Travel: Ruffland Review | Starts at $207 See Prices |
 | Air Travel: SportPet Review | Starts at $64 See Prices |
 | For Puppies: Midwest Homes Review | Starts at $23 See Prices |
 | Furniture: Dwanton Review | Starts at $88 See Prices |
Best Wire Dog Crate: MidWest Homes Double Door iCrate
The MidWest Homes for Pets Double Door iCrate Dog Crate is designed to offer a safe, secure, and comfortable environment for your dog. Made of metal and intended for indoor use, this crate has been enhanced with additional security features.
Key Benefits
Potential Drawbacks
- Metal Construction: While durable, metal crates may not be the best choice for dogs prone to anxiety or those who try to chew through bars.
- Floor Protection: While it has protective feet, additional floor protection might be needed for sensitive surfaces.
Meraki Dogs’ Final Thoughts
The MidWest Homes for Pets Double Door iCrate is a top choice for pet parents seeking a blend of security, comfort, and convenience.
Its adjustable size makes it a practical option for growing puppies, while the enhanced safety features provide peace of mind for pet owners.
The easy assembly and portability features make this crate versatile for home use and travel.
This crate offers a secure and comfortable environment that caters to their natural instinct to den, making it an excellent investment for your dog’s well-being.
Best Heavy-Duty Dog Crate: TNC Crate
TNC Custom Dog Crates specializes in high-quality, custom-made dog crates that fit various vehicle makes and models. These crates, made in the USA, emphasize safety and durability.
Key Benefits
Potential Drawbacks
- Lead Time: Current production lead time is 6-10 weeks, which may be longer than some customers prefer.
- Shipping Limitations: Free shipping is available but excludes Alaska and Hawaii.
- Price: Customization and quality craftsmanship may come at a higher price point than standard crates.
Meraki Dogs’ Final Thoughts
TNC Custom Dog Crates are an excellent choice for pet owners seeking tailor-made solutions for dog transportation.
The emphasis on safety and the ability to customize to specific needs make these crates stand out.
While the wait time and potentially higher cost are considerations, the investment in a TNC crate is a commitment to your dog’s safety and comfort during travel.
For those who frequently travel with their pets, these crates offer a unique blend of style, protection, and personalized design.
Best Plastic Dog Crate: Petmate Ultra Vari Dog Kennel
The Petmate Ultra Vari Dog Kennel is designed for medium to large dogs and is suitable for pets weighing 50-70 lbs. It’s built for safe and comfortable air travel, meeting most airline cargo specifications.
Key Benefits
Potential Drawbacks
- Size Specificity: Primarily suitable for medium to large dogs, not ideal for small breeds.
- Airline Variability: Always requires checking with specific airlines for travel compliance.
- Bulkiness: It may be bulky for everyday use or small spaces.
Meraki Dogs’ Final Thoughts
The Petmate Ultra Vari Dog Kennel is an excellent choice for pet owners who travel frequently with their medium to large-sized dogs.
Its durable construction and thoughtful design prioritize pet safety and comfort during air travel.
The kennel’s ability to meet most airline specifications makes it convenient for flying with pets.
While it may be bulky for non-travel use, its quality and features make it a solid investment for those needing a reliable travel crate.
Best Collapsible Dog Crate: Diggs Revol Dog Crate
The Diggs Revol Dog Crate is a collapsible, portable travel kennel suited for small dogs. It’s designed for ease of transport with wheels and a carrying handle.
Key Benefits
Potential Drawbacks
- Weight: Weigh as little as 25 lbs, which might be heavy for some to transport despite its collapsible nature.
Meraki Dogs’ Final Thoughts
The Diggs Revol Dog Crate stands out for its thoughtful design and safety features, making it an excellent choice for small dog owners, especially those with puppies.
Its collapsibility and transportability features are significant advantages for those who travel frequently with their pets.
The crate’s emphasis on quality and safety and its efficient design make it a superior choice for those seeking a convenient, safe, and comfortable travel solution for their small dogs.
Best Soft Dog Crate: EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate
This soft crate is designed to be more spacious than most, providing a comfortable environment for your dog. It’s easily foldable, requires no tools, and comes in various colors.
Key Benefits
Potential Drawbacks
- Fabric Durability: While the fabric is high-quality, it may not withstand heavy chewing or scratching.
- Stability: Being a soft crate, it might offer a different rigidity than a metal or plastic crate.
Meraki Dogs’ Final Thoughts
The EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate is an excellent choice for pet owners seeking a comfortable, portable, stylish dog crate.
Its thoughtful design and additional features like the fleece bed and carrying bag enhance its value, making it ideal for home use, travel, or camping.
The 2-year warranty from a reputable manufacturer adds more confidence in this product.
Best Small Dog Crate: Fable Premium Wood Dog Crate
Fables’s premium bent wood dog crate offers a stylish, heavy-duty option that doubles as a dog crate end table. It features a unique sliding gate design for easy opening and a cozy den-like environment.
Key Benefits
Potential Drawbacks
- Not for Aggressive Chewers: This may not be suitable for dogs with solid chewing habits.
- Escape Potential: Not fully escape-proof for clever dogs.
- Non-refundable: Purchase risk for unsure dog owners.
Meraki Dogs’ Final Thoughts
The Fable Premium Wood Dog Crate is ideal for pet owners looking for a crate that is both a comfortable space for their dog and a stylish addition to their home.
Its design and functionality make it an excellent choice for well-behaved dogs who appreciate a cozy spot.
However, its suitability for aggressive chewers or escape artists is limited.
Best Car Travel Crate: Ruffland Kennels
Ruff Land Kennels is renowned for its safety and durability, particularly in car accidents. These kennels stand out for their robustness and are made with UV-stabilized polyethylene and a one-piece roto-molded design.
Key Benefits
Potential Drawbacks
- Weight/Size: Potentially heavy and bulky.
- Aesthetic: Functional design may not suit all home decor.
Meraki Dogs’ Final Thoughts
Ruff Land Kennels is an excellent choice for those prioritizing safety, particularly in travel scenarios.
Their durability, safety features, and aesthetic appeal through unique color options make them a top pick for everyday use and travel.
They offer a blend of practicality and style, appealing to safety-conscious dog owners.
Best Air Travel Crate: SportPet Designs Rolling Airline Kennel
This airline-approved kennel is designed for convenience and durability. Made with sturdy plastic, it’s easy to assemble and suitable for travel and home use.
Key Benefits
Potential Drawbacks
- No Wheels for Small Size: The smallest kennel option does not include wheels.
- Additional Purchase: Bed sold separately.
Meraki Dogs’ Final Thoughts
SportPet Designs Plastic Kennel is a solid choice for pet owners who travel frequently with their pets. Its airline-approved design and easy maneuverability make it ideal for air travel.
The option to add a plush bed enhances comfort, making it a versatile kennel for both travel and home.
Best Puppy Crate: MidWest Homes iCrate
This single-door crate by MidWest Homes for Pets is ideal for puppies, offering a secure and comfortable environment while they crate train, and grow into adults. The crate includes enhanced safety features like patented Paw Block and locking tips on slide-bolt latches.
Key Benefits
Potential Drawbacks
- Size Limitation: Best suited for small breeds, may require upsizing for larger dogs.
- Mat Restrictions: A crate mat or bed with a divider panel is not recommended.
Meraki Dogs’ Final Thoughts
The MidWest Homes for Pets Single Door iCrate is an excellent choice for small-breed dog owners, emphasizing safety and convenience.
Its portability and ease of assembly make it practical for home use and travel.
Best Furniture Crate: Dwanton Wooden Crate Table
The DWANTON Dog Crate doubles as stylish furniture and a comfortable kennel. It features a multi-functional design that can serve as a side table, end table, or nightstand.
Key Benefits
Potential Drawbacks
- Size Selection: Requires careful measurement of pet size for the right fit.
- Cleaning: While easy to clean, removing the cushion for cleaning might be necessary.
Meraki Dogs’ Final Thoughts
This crate is an excellent choice for pet owners seeking a blend of functionality and style.
Its furniture-like appearance adds to home decor while providing a comfortable space for pets. The double-door and adjustable feet add to its practicality.
Dog Crate Accessories
Check out these top picks for dog crate accessories.
Best Kennel Dog Bed: MidWest Homes for Pets Deluxe Dog Bed
The MidWest Homes for Pets Deluxe Dog Bed is an ultra-plush pet bed designed for comfort and style.
It’s suitable for use as a standalone bed and inside a dog crate, enhancing its coziness. The bed’s ombré swirl pattern in neutral gray adds a touch of elegance to your home décor.
It’s also crafted for easy maintenance, machine washable and dryer friendly, and has a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty.
This bed is comfortable and stylish to ensure your pet’s relaxation.
Key Benefits
Potential Drawbacks
- Plush design may easily tear for dogs or puppies that chew
Meraki Dogs’ Final Thoughts
The MidWest Homes for Pets Deluxe Dog Bed is more than just a comfortable spot for your pet; it’s a thoughtful addition to their living space. Its ultra-plush fabric ensures a cozy, inviting bed that pets will love, especially when placed in their crate.
The stylish design is a bonus, seamlessly fitting into various home decor.
Its easy maintenance is a significant convenience, making it a practical choice for keeping pets comfortable while ensuring cleanliness and hygiene in your home.
Best Dog Bed for Destructive Dogs: Primo Pad
Primo Pads are specialized bedding for dog kennels, designed for durability and hygiene. They are 100% waterproof and constructed without stitching or zippers to prevent water leakage and bacterial growth.
Made from non-toxic closed-cell foam, these pads are safe and do not expand if ingested. Primo Pads provide continual support, aiding in preventing joint issues and callouses in dogs.
Key Benefits
Potential Drawbacks
- Not suitable for dogs that prefer soft, plush beds.
- Limited to kennel use.
Meraki Dogs’ Final Thoughts
Primo Pads are excellent for pet owners seeking a hygienic, durable kennel bedding solution.
Their waterproof and easy-to-clean features make them highly practical, especially for maintaining cleanliness and pet health.
Best Crate Cover: MidWest Homes for Pets Crate Cover
This crate cover is designed to provide privacy and comfort for dogs, fitting most standard wire crates. It offers easy access to crate doors and has hook & loop tabs for secure placement.
Key Benefits
Potential Drawbacks
- Limited to specific crate sizes.
- Does not include a bottom panel or mat.
Meraki Dogs’ Final Thoughts
The MidWest Homes for Pets Crate Cover is an excellent addition for pet owners looking to create a cozy and private space for their dogs.
Its design helps reduce anxious behaviors, making it ideal for home use and travel.
How to Choose the Best Dog Crate
Choosing a crate can be challenging, but it’s crucial for your dog’s comfort and safety to use a crate best suited for their needs. Let’s delve into what you need to consider.
Crate Size
When it comes to size, getting it right is critical, especially for puppies and younger dogs.
A cramped crate is more than just uncomfortable for your furry friend; it can lead to stress and a reluctance to use it.
On the flip side, a too roomy crate could be better, too.
It can overwhelm your dog and lead to anxiety or even accidents, as they might designate a corner of the crate for potting.
The sweet spot?
A crate where your dog can easily stand, turn around, and settle down for a cozy nap. This ensures comfort without sacrificing security and a sense of personal space.
Type of Dog Crate
The crate’s material is another vital aspect to consider. You’ll find options like wire, plastic, and soft fabric.
- Wire crates offer excellent ventilation and visibility, making them a top pick for many.
- Plastic crates are more enclosed, which some dogs prefer for the security they offer, and they’re great for travel.
- Soft fabric crates, while not as sturdy, are lightweight and work well for calm dogs or short trips.
Consider your dog’s temperament and where the crate will be used to make the best choice.
Portability and Convenience
If you’re often on the move with your pup, portability is a factor you can’t overlook. Look for easy transport crates with features like handles, foldable designs, and lightweight materials.
Also, consider how simple the crate is to set up and take down. This is especially important for travel or planning to move the crate around your home.
Safety and Durability Safety is non-negotiable.
A well-built crate should have no sharp edges or points where your dog could hurt themselves. The door should be securely locked to prevent escape artists from getting out. Durability is also essential, particularly for those chewers and scratchers.
You want a crate that can withstand wear and tear while keeping your dog safe and contained.
Safety Features
Regarding dog crates, we can’t stress enough the importance of safety features. A crate isn’t just a convenient tool for managing and training your dog; it’s a space where they must feel secure and protected.
Pay attention to safety latches—they should be robust and easy to operate yet secure enough to prevent Houdini-like escapes. Handles are a boon for portability, but they must be strong and well-attached. Don’t overlook the significance of crate trays, either.
These should be sturdy, easy to clean, and fit snugly to avoid trapped paws or noses.
A crash-tested crate is an invaluable investment for those who frequently travel with their dogs. These crates are designed to protect your furry companion in the event of an accident, providing peace of mind when you’re on the road.
Remember, in a car, your dog’s crate becomes their seatbelt; compromising on safety is not an option.
Intended Use
Your dog’s personality and lifestyle should guide your crate choice.
A heavy-duty crate is a wise choice for dogs who struggle with anxiety or have a knack for escaping.
These crates are usually made of stronger materials and have advanced locking mechanisms to keep your dog calm.
On the other hand, if your dog is a frequent travel companion, consider getting a separate crate specifically designed for car travel.
These are generally crash-tested for safety and tailored for vehicle compatibility.
Having a different crate for home use can be beneficial, too. Home crates can focus more on comfort and space, providing a tranquil spot for your dog to relax.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Trust Meraki Dogs
As a professional dog trainer, my guidance in this article comes from hands-on experience with various dog crates and accessories. I understand that each dog is unique, with their own set of needs and preferences. I’ve carefully evaluated and selected these products, considering safety, comfort, durability, and practicality. I aim to provide pet parents with reliable, trustworthy recommendations, ensuring you get not just any crate but the best one for your beloved canine companion.
Bottom Line
Choosing the right crate for your dog is more than a mere purchase; it’s an investment in their well-being and happiness.
The crates I’ve discussed in this article stand out for their quality, functionality, and ability to cater to various canine needs.
Whether you have a tiny puppy, an energetic adolescent, a calm adult, or a wise senior dog, there’s a perfect crate for your furry friend on this list.
By selecting one of these recommended options, you’re not just providing a safe space for your dog; you’re enhancing their quality of life and deepening the bond you share with them.
So, take this step confidently, knowing you’re making a choice that reflects your love and commitment to your dog’s happiness and safety.
