What it is The Amazon Basics Portable, Easy to Assemble, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate is an affordable crate option for medium-sized dogs. Sized at 36โ€ x 23โ€ x 25โ€, it features double doors, a removable plastic tray, a built-in carry handle, and a foldable design for storage. It also includes a divider panel to adjust the interior space as your puppy grows, a standard feature for crates marketed for training. ## Key features to know - Double doors: Both side and front doors offer flexibility in placement, making it easier to fit the crate in tight corners or use as a travel crate. The latches are slide-bolt style, which are simple but can be finicky if not aligned perfectly.

  • Removable tray: The plastic tray slides out from the front for quick cleaning. Itโ€™s waterproof but not indestructible; some owners report it can crack if overloaded or twisted during removal.
  • Divider panel: This metal panel lets you shrink the crateโ€™s interior space for young puppies, which helps with house training by preventing them from using one end as a bathroom. Itโ€™s easy to install and adjust.
  • Foldable design: The crate collapses flat for storage or transport, and the built-in handle makes it fairly easy to carry. Note that itโ€™s still heavy when the crate is fully assembled.
  • Assembly: Requires no tools, the crate pops into shape by pulling up the sides. The tray slides in, and the divider panel snaps into place. Disassembly is equally straightforward. ## Who it is best for - First-time dog owners on a budget who need a functional crate for training and containment.
  • Owners of medium-breed puppies (e.g., Beagles, Cocker Spaniels) that will grow into the full size, using the divider for early training.
  • Travelers who need a portable crate for car trips or visits to family; the foldable design and handle make it easy to pack.
  • Owners with limited space who need a crate that can be stored flat when not in use. ## Things to consider before buying - Durability: The wire is thinner than premium crates (e.g., MidWest or Petmate). Heavy chewers or strong dogs may bend bars or pop welds. Not recommended for destructive or anxious dogs.
  • Size accuracy: The crate is 36โ€ long, suitable for dogs up to about 70 lbs (e.g., a small Lab). Measure your dog: they should be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. The divider helps during growth.
  • Tray quality: The plastic tray is a common weak point. Some buyers report it warping or cracking, especially if heavy bedding is used. Consider upgrading to a metal tray or using a crate mat over the tray.
  • Latch security: The slide-bolt latches on the doors are not lockable without a separate clip or carabiner. For escape artists, you may need to add extra security.
  • Assembly quirks: While tool-free, the crate can be tricky to collapse or set up at first, the sides may not lock into place smoothly until you get the hang of it. Watch a tutorial video. ## Alternatives to consider - MidWest iCrate (similar price point): Slightly more sturdy, with a single door or double door options. The tray is more durable, and the latch is more secure. Also folds flat.
  • Petmate Vari Kennel: A plastic airline-approved carrier for travel, not a wire crate. Heavier but more secure for anxious travelers and chewers. Not foldable.
  • ProPawPicks Heavy Duty Crate: If your dog is a chewer or escape artist, invest in a reinforced steel crate (e.g., ProSelect or Impact). These are much pricier but virtually indestructible.
  • Fabric or soft-sided crates: Lighter and more portable but not chew-proof or suitable for escaping dogs. Best for calm, trained dogs. Before buying, always measure your dogโ€™s height (from floor to top of head) and length (from nose to base of tail) while standing. Check the current price on Amazon, but remember that value depends on your dogโ€™s temperament and your training needs.

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