The Best Dog Crates for Home and Travel

The Best Dog Crates for Home and Travel: Dog crates are essential tools for pet owners whether you’re house training a puppy, traveling with your furry friend, or giving your dog a secure space to rest. The right dog crate can provide comfort, improve behavior, and offer peace of mind both at home and on the road.

In this guide, we’ll break down what makes a great dog crate, explore different types, and highlight the best dog crates for every lifestyle. Whether you need a sturdy crate for air travel or a stylish one that doubles as furniture, this article covers it all.

Why Dog Crates Matter

A dog crate is more than a cage when used properly, it’s a safe den for your dog. Crates help with:

• House training: Dogs avoid soiling their sleeping area.
• Separation anxiety: A cozy crate gives dogs a safe place when you’re away.
• Travel safety: Keeps dogs secure in cars and planes.
• Recovery from injury or surgery: Limits movement during healing.
• Preventing destructive behavior: Protects your home and belongings.

The best crates balance security, ventilation, comfort, and portability.

Types of Dog Crates

Before you choose a crate, understand the primary types available:

1. Wire Crates

• Best for: Home use, house training, dogs who like visibility
• Pros: Good airflow, collapsible, removable tray for cleaning
• Cons: Heavier, not ideal for travel

2. Plastic Crates

• Best for: Air travel, dogs who like enclosed spaces
• Pros: Lightweight, more private, airline-approved
• Cons: Less airflow, harder to clean

3. Soft-Sided Crates

• Best for: Small dogs, car travel, indoor use
• Pros: Lightweight, foldable, portable
• Cons: Not suitable for chewers or escape artists

4. Furniture-Style Crates

• Best for: Stylish home integration
• Pros: Doubles as end tables, decorative
• Cons: Not portable, often more expensive

5. Heavy-Duty Crates

• Best for: Escape-prone or aggressive dogs
• Pros: Extremely secure, durable
• Cons: Expensive, heavy, bulky

Top 8 Dog Crates for Home and Travel (2025 Edition)

1. MidWest LifeStages Double Door Folding Crate

• Type: Wire crate
• Why we love it: Adjustable divider panel, foldable, durable build
• Best for: Home use and crate training
• Sizes: XS to XXL (for dogs up to 110+ lbs)
• Bonus: Two-door access and a leak-proof pan

2. Petmate Sky Kennel

• Type: Plastic crate
• Why we love it: IATA-compliant for air travel
• Best for: Flying with medium to large dogs
• Sizes: 21″ to 48″
• Bonus: Includes “Live Animal” stickers and metal nuts/bolts for airline approval

3. EliteField Soft-Sided 3-Door Folding Crate

• Type: Soft crate
• Why we love it: Lightweight and breathable
• Best for: Calm dogs and travel by car
• Sizes: 20″ to 42″
• Bonus: Comes with carrying case and fleece mat

4. Diggs Revol Dog Crate

• Type: Wire/plastic hybrid
• Why we love it: Premium safety design, collapses like luggage
• Best for: Apartment living and travel
• Sizes: Small to medium dogs
• Bonus: Stylish design, ideal for crate training puppies

5. Frisco “Ultimate” Heavy-Duty Steel Crate

• Type: Heavy-duty metal
• Why we love it: Built like a tank, escape-proof
• Best for: Destructive or strong dogs
• Sizes: Medium to XXL
• Bonus: Locking wheels and dual latches

6. Merry Products Wooden Pet Crate

• Type: Furniture-style
• Why we love it: Looks like a chic end table
• Best for: Blending into living rooms
• Sizes: S, M, L
• Bonus: Multi-purpose and easy to clean

7. AmazonBasics Folding Metal Crate

• Type: Wire crate
• Why we love it: Budget-friendly and reliable
• Best for: First-time dog owners
• Sizes: XS to XL
• Bonus: Easy to assemble and collapse

8. Gunner G1 Kennel

• Type: Heavy-duty plastic
• Why we love it: Crash-tested for safety
• Best for: Road trips and working dogs
• Sizes: Small to XL
• Bonus: Certified by the Center for Pet Safety

How to Choose the Right Dog Crate

1. Pick the Right Size

• Your dog should be able to: Stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
• Too big? Dogs may soil one corner and sleep in another.
• Too small? Cramped quarters cause stress and discomfort.

Measure your dog:

• Length: Nose to base of tail + 2–4 inches
• Height: Floor to top of head or ears + 2 inches

2. Consider Your Lifestyle

• Do you travel frequently? Opt for portable or airline-approved models.
• Do you want something stylish? Choose a furniture-style crate.
• Is your dog an escape artist? Go heavy-duty.

3. Think About Ventilation

Wire and soft crates offer the best airflow. Enclosed plastic crates provide warmth and privacy but can get stuffy.

4. Safety Features Matter

• Secure locks
• Rounded corners (to avoid snags or injuries)
• No sharp edges
• Non-toxic materials

READ ALSO: How to Train a Dog to Be Home Alone

Tips for Crate Training Success

• Make it inviting: Use comfy bedding, favorite toys, and treats.
• Go slow: Gradually increase time spent inside.
• Never use the crate as punishment.
• Reward calm behavior inside the crate.
• Keep it clean: Wash bedding and disinfect the tray regularly.

FAQs

How long can I leave my dog in a crate?

Adult dogs can stay in a crate for up to 6–8 hours occasionally, but puppies should be crated only for short periods. Provide breaks for exercise and potty time.

Is it cruel to crate a dog?

Not if done correctly. Crates provide security and comfort for many dogs, especially when introduced gradually and used positively.

Can I crate my dog at night?

Yes. Many dogs sleep better in crates once they are properly trained. Place the crate in your bedroom initially to reduce separation anxiety.

Which crates are airline-approved?

Plastic crates with metal bolts (like the Petmate Sky Kennel) are typically airline-compliant. Always check the specific airline’s pet policy before flying.

What crate is best for a destructive dog?

Choose a heavy-duty crate like the Frisco Steel Crate or Gunner G1. Avoid soft-sided models or basic wire crates.

Can two dogs share one crate?

It’s not recommended unless they’re very small and bonded (e.g., littermates). Dogs need their own space for safety and stress relief.

How do I clean a dog crate?

Remove all bedding and toys. Wash with mild soap and water or pet-safe disinfectants. For plastic and metal crates, a hose or pressure sprayer works well.

Should I get a crate with a divider?

Yes, especially for puppies. Dividers let the crate “grow” with your dog, saving money and improving training efficiency.