Beagles are clever escape artists. Discover the best crate with secure latches and a reinforced door to keep your Houdini safe. Top pick: MidWest iCrate.
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Best Overall: MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry. Durable, easy to assemble, includes divider panel for growing pups, and has a reliable sli.
Best for Travel: Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel. Airline-approved, sturdy plastic construction, excellent ventilation, and comfortable hand.
Best Heavy-Duty: ProSelect Empire Cage. All-steel welded construction, escape-proof, with a reinforced door and raised lip to cont.
Best Soft-Sided: EliteField 3-Door Folding Crate. Lightweight, three entry points, foldable for storage, and includes a fleece pad.
Best Budget: Frisco 30-Inch Dog Crate. Low price, sturdy wire construction, comes with divider and leak-proof tray, easy to clean.
Quick answer
Our top three picks for Beagle crates are: 1. MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry (best overall), 2. Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel (best for travel), and 3. ProSelect Empire Cage (best heavy-duty).
What to consider for a Beagle
Beagles are escape artists with a strong sense of smell. A crate must be sturdy, well-ventilated, and have a secure latch. Size matters: Beagles typically weigh 20-30 pounds, so a 30-inch crate is ideal for adults. Look for easy cleaning (removable trays) and portability if you travel often.
How we picked
We analyzed customer reviews, tested durability, and considered safety features like rounded edges and no sharp corners. We prioritized crates with double doors for flexibility and those that meet airline standards for travel. Price and warranty were also factored in.
Beagles are clever escape artists, so investing in a crate with secure, heavy-duty latches and a reinforced door is crucial to prevent escapes and ensure safety.
The Options
Types Explained
Wire Crates
Metal cages with excellent ventilation and visibility. Often fold flat for storage.
Best for: Home use and training, as they allow easy monitoring and are easy to clean.
Plastic Kennels
Enclosed, sturdy carriers with ventilation slots. Many are airline-approved.
Best for: Travel, vet visits, and providing a den-like environment.
Heavy-Duty Crates
Reinforced steel or aluminum crates designed to withstand strong chewers and escape attempts.
Best for: Beagles with separation anxiety or destructive tendencies.
Soft-Sided Crates
Fabric crates with mesh windows, lightweight and collapsible.
Best for: Temporary use, camping, or calm dogs who don't chew.
The Rankings
Top 5 Picks
#1
Best Overall
MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry
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Durable, easy to assemble, includes divider panel for growing pups, and has a reliable slide-bolt latch.
Measure your Beagle from nose to tail and add a few inches. A 30-inch crate is standard for adults.
02
Security Features
Beagles are clever escape artists. Look for strong latches, reinforced doors, and sturdy construction.
03
Ventilation
Good airflow is crucial. Wire crates offer the best ventilation; plastic kennels should have ample vents.
04
Ease of Cleaning
Removable, leak-proof trays simplify cleaning. Consider crates with smooth surfaces and washable pads.
05
Portability
If you travel, choose a lightweight, foldable crate or an airline-approved kennel for car and plane trips.
Living With It
Care, Cost and Maintenance
Cleaning the Crate
Remove the tray and wash with mild soap and water weekly. Wipe down wire bars with a damp cloth. Disinfect if your Beagle has accidents.
Introducing Your Beagle
Make the crate a positive space with treats and toys. Start with short sessions and gradually increase duration. Never use the crate for punishment.
Maintenance and Safety
Check latches and hinges regularly for wear. Replace any damaged parts. Ensure the crate is placed in a temperature-controlled area away from direct sunlight.
Pro tip
Place a worn t-shirt or blanket with your scent in the crate to comfort your Beagle and make the space feel like a safe den.
Frequently asked questions
What size crate does a Beagle need?
A 30-inch crate is generally ideal for adult Beagles. For puppies, use a divider to adjust the space as they grow.
Are Beagles easy to crate train?
Beagles can be stubborn, but with positive reinforcement and patience, most adapt well. Use high-value treats and keep sessions short.
Can Beagles be left in a crate while at work?
Adult Beagles can handle 4-6 hours, but not more than 8 hours. Puppies need more frequent breaks. Provide exercise before crating.
What is the best crate for an escape artist Beagle?
A heavy-duty crate like the ProSelect Empire Cage with reinforced latches and welded steel construction is recommended.
Should I get a wire or plastic crate?
Wire crates offer better ventilation and visibility, while plastic crates are better for travel and creating a den-like feel.
How do I clean a dog crate?
Remove the tray and wash with soap and water. Wipe the frame with a pet-safe cleaner. For plastic crates, hose down and dry thoroughly.
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.
Transparency
How we made this guide
How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Dog Crates, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.
How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.
Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.
