🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dog Crates

Best Crate for Australian Shepherds

Our editorial team compared top crates for Australian Shepherds based on size, durability, and safety. We found the best options for this active, medium-to-large breed.

ProPawPicks Editorial Team

ProPawPicks Reviewer

Updated June 30, 2026

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🐶 ★ Top Pick: MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Single Door & Fold & …

36-42 inches

Recommended Crate Length

40-65 lbs

Average Aussie Weight

1/8 inch

Minimum Wire Gauge

5 years

Average Crate Lifespan

⚡ Key takeaways

Best Overall: MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Single Door & Fold & Carry Dog Crate. Durable, easy to fold, includes divider panel, and comes in sizes perfect for Aussies (36,.
Best Heavy-Duty: ProSelect Empire Dog Crate. All-metal construction with no exposed hardware, ideal for strong chewers or escape-prone.
Best with Divider: MidWest iCrate Double Door. Two doors for flexible placement, includes divider to adjust size as puppy grows.
Best for Travel: Petmate Sky Kennel. Meets airline requirements, sturdy plastic, and well-ventilated for safe car or plane trav.
Best Budget: Frisco Heavy Duty Wire Crate. Affordable, sturdy wire construction with a pull-out pan for easy cleaning.

Quick answer

Best overall: MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Single Door & Fold & Carry Dog Crate. Best heavy-duty: ProSelect Empire Dog Crate. Best with divider: MidWest iCrate Double Door. Best for travel: Petmate Sky Kennel.

What to consider for a Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds are intelligent, medium-to-large dogs (40-65 lbs) that need a crate sturdy enough to contain their energy. Look for 36-42 inch crates with secure latches, as they can be escape artists. Wire crates offer ventilation and visibility, while plastic kennels provide den-like security. Consider collapsible designs for easy storage.

How we picked

We evaluated crates based on size suitability for standard Aussie dimensions, durability of materials, ease of assembly and cleaning, safety features (no sharp edges, secure locks), and customer reviews from Australian Shepherd owners. We prioritized crates with removable pans and divider panels for growing puppies.

For more tips on raising your Australian Shepherd, check out our Australian Shepherd Complete Guide.

At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Product	Best For
MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Single Door & F…	Best Overall	Check price →
ProSelect Empire Dog Crate	Best Heavy-Duty	Check price →
MidWest iCrate Double Door	Best with Divider	Check price →
Petmate Sky Kennel	Best for Travel	Check price →
Frisco Heavy Duty Wire Crate	Best Budget	Check price →

Why this matters

Australian Shepherds are intelligent and can be escape artists, so invest in a sturdy crate with secure latches. A 36-42 inch wire crate with a divider is ideal for puppies and adults.

The Options

Types Explained

Wire Crates

Open, well-ventilated crates made of metal wire. Collapsible for storage.

Best for: Home use, training, and owners who want visibility.

Plastic Kennels

Enclosed crates with ventilation slots. Often airline-approved.

Best for: Travel, anxious dogs, and den-like security.

Heavy-Duty Crates

Reinforced metal or aluminum crates with strong locks.

Best for: Escape artists, strong chewers, and aggressive dogs.

Soft-Sided Crates

Fabric crates with mesh windows. Lightweight and portable.

Best for: Indoor use, well-behaved dogs, and temporary confinement.

The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

Best Overall

MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Single Door & Fold & Carry Dog Crate

View on Amazon

Durable, easy to fold, includes divider panel, and comes in sizes perfect for Aussies (36, 42 inches).

Check Price on Amazon →

Best Heavy-Duty

ProSelect Empire Dog Crate

View on Amazon

All-metal construction with no exposed hardware, ideal for strong chewers or escape-prone Aussies.

Check Price on Amazon →

Best with Divider

MidWest iCrate Double Door

View on Amazon

Two doors for flexible placement, includes divider to adjust size as puppy grows.

Check Price on Amazon →

Best for Travel

Petmate Sky Kennel

View on Amazon

Meets airline requirements, sturdy plastic, and well-ventilated for safe car or plane travel.

Check Price on Amazon →

Best Budget

Frisco Heavy Duty Wire Crate

View on Amazon

Affordable, sturdy wire construction with a pull-out pan for easy cleaning.

Check Price on Amazon →

Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

Size

Choose a crate that allows your Aussie to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. For adult Aussies, 36-42 inches long is ideal.

Material

Wire crates offer airflow and visibility; plastic kennels provide security and are better for travel. Heavy-duty metal for chewers.

Security

Look for secure slide-bolt latches or lockable doors. Aussies are smart and can figure out simple latches.

Portability

Fold-flat wire crates are easy to transport. Plastic kennels with handles are good for car travel.

Ease of Cleaning

Removable pans or washable pads make cleanup simple. Avoid crates with hard-to-reach corners.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Cleaning

Remove the pan and wash with mild soap and water weekly. Disinfect monthly with pet-safe cleaner.

Maintenance

Check latches and hinges regularly for wear. Tighten screws if needed. Replace if rust or sharp edges appear.

Safety Checks

Ensure no gaps where paws or collars could get caught. Remove tags from collars when crating.

Pro tip

Place the crate in a quiet, low-traffic area. Cover with a blanket to create a den-like atmosphere that helps reduce anxiety.

Frequently asked questions

What size crate does an Australian Shepherd need?

A 36-inch crate typically fits most adult Aussies, but a 42-inch crate offers extra room. Measure your dog from nose to tail and add 4 inches.

Are Australian Shepherds easy to crate train?

Yes, they are intelligent and eager to please. Start with short sessions, use treats, and make the crate comfortable.

Can I use a soft-sided crate for an Aussie?

Only for well-trained adults. Puppies and chewers can destroy fabric crates easily.

How do I prevent my Aussie from escaping the crate?

Use a heavy-duty crate with secure locks. Ensure the crate is the right size and not too large.

Should I get a single or double door crate?

Double doors offer flexibility in placement. Single doors are often more secure and cheaper.

Is it safe to leave my Aussie in a crate while at work?

Adult Aussies can be crated for 4-6 hours, but not longer. Provide water and a potty break before.

A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.

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