A safe and comfortable crate can give your puppy a quiet place to sleep, relax and settle when they need time away from household activity. However, choosing the correct size and type is essential. This guide explains how to compare the best puppy crates based on your puppy’s size, behavior, lifestyle and training needs.
Table of Contents
Our Top Puppy Crate Picks
Choosing the right crate depends on your puppy’s size, expected adult size, behavior and how you plan to use the crate. Some owners need a simple wire crate for home training, while others may prefer a travel-friendly or more premium option.
The following puppy crates cover different needs and budgets. Always check the manufacturer’s current sizing information before purchasing, as the correct size will depend on your individual puppy.
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Quick Comparison
| Puppy Crate | Best For | Crate Type | Divider | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MidWest iCrate Double Door | Best Overall | Wire | Yes* | Practical all-round home crate |
| Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Wire Crate | Best Budget | Wire | Yes* | Straightforward, affordable design |
| Petmate Vari Kennel | Best for Travel | Plastic | No | Enclosed, portable design |
| K9 Kennel Boss Aluminum Collapsible Crate | Best Premium / Heavy-Duty | Aluminum | No* | Robust, collapsible construction |
*Features can vary by size, model or package. Check the current product specifications before ordering.
1. MidWest iCrate Double Door — Best Overall Puppy Crate
The MidWest iCrate Double Door is a practical choice for puppy owners looking for a traditional wire crate for everyday home use.
Its folding wire design makes it relatively easy to store or move, when necessary, while double-door configurations provide more flexibility when deciding where to position the crate in your home.
Selected iCrate configurations include a divider panel, allowing the usable crate area to be adjusted as a puppy grows. This can be particularly useful if you choose a crate based on your puppy’s expected adult size.
Why we like it:
- Available in multiple sizes.
- Wire construction provides good airflow and visibility.
- Double-door models provide flexible access.
- Selected models include a divider for growing puppies.
- Removable pan makes routine cleaning easier.
- Folding design can make storage more convenient.
Things to consider:
Wire crates are relatively open compared with plastic crates, so some puppies may settle better with part of the crate appropriately covered. Always maintain adequate ventilation and make sure your puppy cannot pull the cover through the wire.
Best for: Puppy owners looking for a versatile everyday crate for home use.
Check the MidWest iCrate on Amazon
2. Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Wire Crate — Best Budget Puppy Crate
The Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Wire Crate is worth considering if you want a straightforward puppy crate without paying for premium styling.
The range includes foldable wire designs with removable base trays, and selected versions include a divider panel. These are useful features for puppy owners because the tray simplifies cleaning while a divider can help adjust the usable space as a puppy grows.
Why we like it:
- Straightforward wire-crate design.
- Multiple sizes are available.
- Foldable construction helps with storage.
- Removable tray makes cleaning easier.
- Selected models include a divider.
- A practical option for budget-conscious puppy owners.
Things to consider:
This is primarily a functional crate rather than a premium piece of furniture. Check the exact model carefully before ordering because features can vary between sizes and configurations.
Best for: Owners who want the essential features of a wire puppy crate while keeping costs down.
Check the Amazon Basics Crate on Amazon
3. Petmate Vari Kennel Best Puppy Crate for Travel
The Petmate Vari Kennel is a plastic kennel designed for owners who want a more enclosed crate that can also be useful for travel.
Unlike an open wire crate, its plastic shell creates a more enclosed resting space while ventilation openings provide airflow. The kennel is available in different sizes, so owners should carefully match the model to their puppy’s measurements.
Petmate also markets the Vari Kennel for travel. However, airline requirements vary and can change, so never assume that a particular kennel will automatically be accepted for a flight.
Why we like it:
- Durable plastic construction.
- More enclosed than a traditional wire crate.
- Ventilation openings provide airflow.
- Available in several sizes.
- Can be useful for both home and travel situations.
- Easy-to-clean plastic surfaces.
Things to consider:
If you intend to fly with your puppy, contact your airline and check its current crate requirements before purchasing. Requirements can differ between airlines, routes and types of travel.
Best for: Puppy owners who want a more enclosed crate with travel versatility.
Check the Petmate Vari Kennel on Amazon
4. K9 Kennel Boss Aluminum Collapsible Dog Crate — Best Premium / Heavy-Duty Pick
For puppy owners looking for something more substantial than a standard wire crate, the K9 Kennel Boss Aluminum Collapsible Dog Crate is our premium pick.
Its heavy-duty aluminum construction makes it a very different option from the typical wire crates on this list. The crate is designed to collapse when needed, while its reinforced construction makes it particularly appealing to owners who prioritize durability and a more robust enclosure.
The model we found is available in multiple sizes, so always choose a crate that gives your puppy enough room to stand up, turn around, lie down, and stretch comfortably.
Why we like it:
- Heavy-duty aluminum construction
- Fully collapsible design
- More robust than a traditional wire crate
- Multiple size options available
- Good option for owners willing to invest in a premium crate
Things to consider:
This is a significantly more expensive option than a basic wire or plastic puppy crate. For most first-time puppy owners, a standard crate such as the MidWest iCrate may be all they need. The K9 Kennel Boss makes more sense for buyers specifically looking for a premium, heavy-duty crate.
Best for: Puppy owners who prioritize durability, heavier-duty construction, and a premium collapsible design.
Check the K9 Kennel Boss Crate on Amazon
You may also want to compare our picks for the best puppy beds to create a comfortable sleeping area.
How We Chose These Puppy Crates
We compared puppy crates based on the practical factors that matter when choosing a safe and useful crate for a young dog. These included:
- Sizing options — whether owners can select an appropriate crate for different puppy and adult sizes.
- Ventilation — sufficient airflow is essential for a comfortable crate.
- Secure construction — doors, latches and crate components should remain secure during normal use.
- Cleaning — removable trays or easy-to-clean surfaces make accidents easier to manage.
- Growth — dividers can make some crates more practical while a puppy grows.
- Storage and portability — folding or portable designs may be useful depending on how the crate will be used.
- Intended use — a crate suited to everyday home training may not be the best option for travel.
We have not ranked these crates based solely on price or customer ratings. Different puppies and households have different requirements, so the best choice depends on your puppy’s size, behavior and intended use.
Why a Crate Can Help Your Puppy
When introduced gradually, a crate can become a comfortable resting place for your puppy. It can support toilet training, make travel safer and help you manage short periods when close supervision is difficult.
A crate should never be used to isolate or punish a puppy. It is also not a replacement for exercise, toilet breaks, training or time with the family. Some puppies need more time than others to feel relaxed inside one.
Types of Puppy Crates
The right crate will depend on how you intend to use it and whether your puppy is likely to chew, scratch or attempt to escape. The best puppy crates are secure, well-ventilated and appropriate for the individual puppy.
| Crate Type | Suitable Uses | Points to Consider |
|---|---|---|
| Wire crate | Home use and growing puppies | Provides good airflow and often includes a divider |
| Plastic crate | Home use and some forms of travel | Feels more enclosed but requires adequate ventilation |
| Soft-sided crate | Short, supervised use with calm puppies | Lightweight but unsuitable for persistent chewers or escape attempts |
| Furniture-style crate | Indoor home use | Blends with décor, but safety and ventilation must come before appearance |
How to Choose the Right Crate Size
Your puppy should be able to stand upright without crouching, turn around comfortably and lie down in a natural position. Check the manufacturer’s measurements and compare them with your puppy’s current height and length before purchasing a crate.
A crate that is too small will be uncomfortable. However, an oversized crate may allow a puppy to sleep at one end and use the other end as a toilet. If you purchase a crate for your puppy’s expected adult size, use a secure divider and adjust it as your puppy grows.
The Dogs Trust crate-training guide provides additional guidance on choosing a safe crate size and preparing a comfortable space.
Features to Look for in the Best Puppy Crates
The best puppy crates combine comfort with practical safety features. Look for:
- A secure latch that your puppy cannot easily open.
- Smooth edges without sharp points or dangerous gaps.
- Enough ventilation to maintain a comfortable temperature.
- A removable, washable tray or base.
- A divider that can be adjusted as your puppy grows.
- Materials strong enough for your puppy’s chewing and activity level.
Wire Crates vs Plastic Crates
Wire and plastic crates can both be suitable when they are correctly sized and safely constructed. Your choice should depend on your puppy’s needs and how the crate will be used.
| Feature | Wire Crate | Plastic Crate |
|---|---|---|
| Ventilation | Excellent airflow | Varies by design |
| Visibility | Open visibility | More enclosed |
| Cleaning | Usually includes a removable tray | Solid surfaces are generally easy to wipe |
| Storage | Many models fold flat | Usually does not fold flat |
| Travel | Not accepted for every form of transport | Some models are designed for travel |
If you plan to use a crate for air travel, check the airline’s current requirements before buying one. A crate being described as a travel crate does not automatically mean that every airline will accept it.
What to Put Inside a Puppy Crate
Keep the crate simple and comfortable. Depending on your puppy’s behavior, suitable items may include:
- A washable crate mat or bed.
- A soft blanket if your puppy does not chew or swallow fabric.
- An appropriately sized chew toy that has already been tested under supervision.
- A secure, spill-resistant water bowl when needed.
- A properly fitted divider for a growing puppy.
Remove bedding or toys if your puppy tears pieces from them or tries to swallow the material. Collars, harnesses and leads should also be removed before crating because they can become caught on the crate. If you are still preparing for your puppy, our guide to what to buy before bringing a puppy home covers the other essential supplies you may need.
How to Introduce Your Puppy to a Crate
Even the best puppy crates need a careful introduction. Place the crate in a comfortable part of the home and leave the door open. Allow your puppy to investigate it without being forced inside.
- Place treats near the entrance and then gradually farther inside.
- Offer meals or a safe toy near or inside the open crate.
- Close the door briefly while your puppy remains relaxed.
- Gradually increase the time with the door closed.
- Practice while you remain nearby before moving out of sight.
Keep each session calm and positive. Avoid putting your puppy into the crate and immediately leaving for a long period, especially during the early stages of training.
The PDSA crate-training guide also provides a detailed reward-based process for introducing a dog to a crate gradually.
Essential Puppy Crate Safety Tips
- Remove your puppy’s collar, harness and lead before closing the crate.
- Keep the crate away from direct sunlight, heaters, electrical cords and other hazards.
- Inspect the crate regularly for damaged wires, sharp edges or loose fasteners.
- Never restrict normal access to water simply to prevent toilet accidents.
- Never use the crate as punishment.
- Make sure your puppy receives regular toilet breaks, exercise and social interaction.
- Teach children to leave the puppy undisturbed while they are resting.
How Long Can a Puppy Stay in a Crate?
There is no single crating limit that suits every puppy. Age, health, toilet-training progress and previous crate experience all matter. Young puppies need frequent toilet breaks and should begin with very short daytime sessions.
Increase the duration gradually only when your puppy remains comfortable. Long periods of confinement can prevent a puppy from receiving the movement, training and social contact they need. Very young puppies may also require toilet breaks during the night.
Signs Your Puppy Is Distressed
Brief whining can occur while a puppy is learning, but persistent distress should not be ignored. Warning signs can include frantic scratching, biting the crate, heavy panting when the room is not hot, excessive drooling, repeated escape attempts or an inability to settle.
If your puppy repeatedly panics inside the crate, shorten the sessions and seek advice from your veterinarian or a qualified reward-based trainer. A different safe sleeping or confinement arrangement may be more suitable while you address the problem.
Common Crate Training Mistakes
New puppy owners sometimes expect their puppy to accept a crate immediately. Common mistakes include:
- Forcing the puppy inside the crate.
- Increasing the crating time too quickly.
- Using the crate as punishment.
- Leaving a distressed puppy without reviewing the training process.
- Choosing a crate based only on appearance.
- Leaving unsafe collars, bedding or toys inside.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size crate should I buy for my puppy?
The best puppy crates allow a puppy to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably. If you buy a larger crate for future growth, use a secure divider to create an appropriately sized area and adjust it as your puppy grows.
Are wire crates better than plastic crates?
Neither type is automatically better. Wire crates generally provide more airflow and visibility, while plastic crates feel more enclosed and may be suitable for certain types of travel. The safest choice depends on the crate’s construction and your puppy’s individual needs.
Should puppies sleep in a crate every night?
Many puppies can sleep comfortably in a crate after a gradual and positive introduction. The sleeping area should be secure, appropriately sized and located where the puppy does not feel isolated. Young puppies may still need overnight toilet breaks. If your puppy shows persistent distress, consider another safe sleeping arrangement and seek professional advice.
Our guide to the first night with a new puppy offers more help with bedtime routines and overnight settling.
Key Things to Remember
- Choose a crate that suits your puppy’s current size and behavior.
- Prioritize secure construction and ventilation over appearance.
- Introduce the crate slowly using positive experiences.
- Remove collars and other items that could become caught.
- Never use the crate as punishment or for prolonged confinement.
- The best puppy crates remain comfortable, secure and appropriate as the puppy grows.
The right crate can provide a comfortable resting place and support your puppy’s routine. Choose carefully, introduce it gradually and continue watching how your puppy responds so that the crate remains a positive and secure space.
