1
Best Overall
MidWest Homes for Pets Single-Door and Double-Door iCrate
Credit: MidWest Homes for Pets
Pros
Plastic slide tray design makes it easy to clean
Conveniently collapses
Divider allows crate to grow with your dog
Cons
Not particularly stylish
This folding metal dog crate is durable enough to last and because it comes with a divider, it can grow with your dog, too. A slide-out bottom tray makes for easy cleaning, and it comes in a range of sizes to fit Chihuahuas and Great Danes alike. A sturdy plastic handle is also included to attach when needed for transport, and rubber feet are included to help protect your floors.
If you like the versatility of two doors, MidWest also offers the iCrate with that option. Similar to the single-door model, it features a slide-out tray that makes it easier to clean up any messes, sturdy wire designed to prevent bending and online reviewers say it breaks down easily for transport.
Dimensions | 47.76" x 31.7" x 29.6" (Extra Large) |
Sizes | 7 |
Material | Wire, Plastic |
Collapsible | Yes |
2
Best Value
Amazon Basics Single Door Folding Metal Dog Crate
Credit: Amazon Basics
Pros
Affordable
Conveniently collapses
Divider allows crate to grow with your dog
Cons
Not the most durable, say reviewers
For a standard metal folding option that won't break the bank, try this one from Amazon's in-house brand. The metal isn't quite as thick as our top pick's, but that shouldn't make a difference unless your pup is a real bruiser. It does include a plastic tray, a divider and an option for double doors, but it doesn't have any protective feet on the bottom, so consider placing it on a small rug if you don't want to scratch your floors. Ultimately, this is a great pick if you only use a crate every now and then or are looking for a crate to take on the go.
Dimensions | 22" x 13" x 16" (Extra Small) |
Sizes | 6 |
Material | Metal |
Collapsible | Yes |
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3
Best Crate With Cover
MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Double-Door Starter Kit
Credit: MidWest Homes for Pets
Pros
Price includes cover, bed and bowls
Wide range of sizes
Conveniently collapses
Cons
Not particularly stylish
If this is your first crate and you're looking to get your new furry friend all set up, you can't go wrong with this starter kit from one of our favorite crate manufacturers. It comes with the crate, two bowls that snap right to the door, a comfy fleece bed, a plastic tray, divider panel and a cover that wraps around to create a cozy den. It's available in a variety of sizes for small, medium and large dogs, too.
Dimensions | 22" x 13" x 16" (Extra Small) |
Sizes | 6 |
Material | Metal, Polyester Cover |
Collapsible | Yes |
4
Best for Travel
Petmate Ultra Vari Dog Kennel
Credit: Petmate
Pros
Ideal for travel
Wire door and side panels for ventilation
Easy to clean
Cons
Bulky to store
Only two sizes include a handle
If you intend to travel with your pet, or want a den that feels more enclosed, a hard-sided crate might work for you. While plastic crates aren't always the best choice for at home, they are lighter than metal crates, which makes them ideal for travel and easy to clean. This heavy-duty recycled plastic one meets most airline specifications and features holes that allow for tying it down with straps for transport. Side vents and a wire door provide ventilation to keep your pup comfortable, too.
Dimensions | 28" x 20.5" x 21.5" (Small) |
Sizes | 6 |
Material | Metal, Plastic |
Collapsible | No |
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5
Best Wooden Crate
Casual Home Pet Crate End Table
Credit: Casual Home
Pros
Doubles as stylish home decor
Roomy enough inside for a padded mat or bed
Easy assembly
Cons
Not chew-proof
Wooden dog crates, also known in the biz as "fashion" dog crates, are designed to blend in with your home decor and can also double as end tables. While dogs who love to chew may damage a wood crate, they can be a good option for well-trained or older pups who won't try to escape. This roomy option from Casual Home offers four stylish wood finishes, including black and espresso, and features a latch on the door (though take note that some online reviewers say it can be a bit difficult to maneuver). Assembly is required, but according to online reviews, it's easy to manage.
Dimensions | 27.5" x 20" x 24" (Small) |
Sizes | 5 |
Material | Wood |
Collapsible | No |
6
Best for Small Dogs
Frisco Collapsible Wire Dog Crate
Credit: Frisco
Pros
Conveniently collapses
Divider allows crate to grow with dog
Includes plastic pan
Cons
Color options only available in size small
The basic black version of Frisco's Fold and Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate comes in 7 sizes, and is a popular budget pick that's useful for travel and comes with a divider panel you can insert to adjust the size as your dog grows. It's also foldable for easy storage and comes with a removable plastic pan for easier cleanup. But if you have a puppy or smaller breed and are looking for a colorful crate that can brighten up your space, the small size of this crate also comes in pink and blue options.
Dimensions | 24" x 18" x 19.5" (Small) |
Sizes | 1 |
Material | Metal |
Collapsible | Yes |
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7
Best for Large Dogs
MidWest Homes for Pets Ginormous Wire Dog Crate
Credit: MidWest Homes for Pets
Pros
Roomy enough for dogs over 110 lbs.
Conveniently collapses
Durable construction
Cons
2 people required for assembly
If you've got a super-sized best friend, they also need a space big enough for them to hang out comfortably. Many brands don't offer options large enough for tall breeds like Mastiffs, Irish Wolfhounds or Great Danes, but this aptly named "ginormous" crate will do the trick. It features three heavy-duty slide-bolt latches, rubber feet to protect your floors and a plastic pan for easier cleanup. The drop-pin construction is also made specifically to handle big dogs.
Dimensions | 53.75" x 36" x 45" |
Sizes | 1 |
Material | Plastic, Metal |
Collapsible | Yes |
8
Best Soft-Sided Crate
Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Travel Crate
Credit: Amazon Basics
Pros
Lightweight for travel
Collapsible for easy storage
Cons
Removable cover is washable, but may not be the easiest to clean
No carrying handle
When you need a crate to bring along on trips but don't plan to use it regularly, try this soft-sided pick. It sets up and breaks down in a flash according to online reviewers — and folds up small enough to store in tight spaces. Think of it like a pack-and-play for your pup! Just note that while it includes a machine-washable cover, some online reviewers say it can be difficult to clean on a day-to-day basis. It also does not include a carrying handle for easier transport.
Dimensions | 29.92" x 21.3" x 21.3" (Medium) |
Sizes | 4 |
Material | Polyester |
Collapsible | Yes |
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9
Best Heavy-Duty Crate
K9 Kennel Boss Heavy-Duty Dog Crate
Credit: K9 Kennel Boss
Pros
Extra sturdy
Collapsible for easy storage
Fully ventilated
Cons
Expensive
For seasoned canine escape artists or people who transport hunting or sporting dogs regularly over rough terrain, you need a crate that can really take a beating. This is designed to go the distance — plus, it's collapsible. It features a powder-coated finish that should make it easier to clean, and it's fully ventilated so you won't have to stress about your dog overheating.
Dimensions | 36" x 25" x 29" (Medium) |
Sizes | 3 |
Material | Aluminum |
Collapsible | Yes |

Lizz (she/her) is a senior editor at Good Housekeeping, where she runs the GH Book Club, edits essays and long-form features and writes about pets, books and lifestyle topics. A journalist for almost two decades, she is the author of Biography of a Body and Buffalo Steel. She also teaches journalism as an adjunct professor at New York University's School of Professional Studies and creative nonfiction at the Muse Writing Center, and coaches with the New York Writing Room.
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