Find the best crates for bulldogs, built for brachycephalic needs and strong jaws. Our top pick, the MidWest iCrate, offers ventilation and durability.
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Best Overall: MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Single Door & Divider. Durable, includes divider for growth, easy to assemble, and has a secure slide-bolt latch.
Best for Travel: Petmate Sky Kennel. Airline-approved, sturdy plastic, excellent ventilation, and meets most airline requiremen.
Best Value: Frisco Heavy Duty Fold & Carry Wire Crate. Affordable, folds flat for storage, sturdy wire construction, and includes a leak-proof tr.
Best Soft Crate: EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Crate. Lightweight, three doors for easy access, mesh panels for ventilation, and comes in variou.
Best Heavy Duty: ProSelect Empire Dog Crate. Extra-thick wire, reinforced corners, and a drop-pin latch system for escape-prone Bulldog.
Quick answer
Top 3 picks: 1) MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Single Door & Divider, 2) Petmate Sky Kennel, 3) Frisco Heavy Duty Fold & Carry Wire Crate.
What to consider for a Bulldog
Bulldogs are brachycephalic and need good ventilation. They also have strong jaws, so a durable crate is a must. Size is critical: too small and they can’t stretch; too large and they may not feel secure. Look for easy-clean trays and secure latches.
How we picked
We reviewed dozens of crates, focusing on size range (36-42 inches for adults), ventilation, material strength, ease of assembly, and safety features. We also considered customer feedback from Bulldog owners.
Bulldogs require crates with excellent ventilation and sturdy construction due to their brachycephalic nature and strong jaws. Size and durability are top priorities.
The Options
Types Explained
Wire Crates
Open, well-ventilated crates made of metal wire with a removable tray.
Best for: Home use, training, and Bulldogs who need maximum airflow.
Plastic Kennels
Enclosed crates with ventilation slots, often airline-approved.
Best for: Travel, vet visits, and Bulldogs who prefer a den-like environment.
Soft-Sided Crates
Lightweight, fabric crates with mesh panels and collapsible frames.
Best for: Indoor use, calm Bulldogs, and temporary setups.
Heavy-Duty Crates
Reinforced crates with thicker materials and stronger locks.
Best for: Escape artists, strong chewers, and Bulldogs with separation anxiety.
The Rankings
Top 5 Picks
#1
Best Overall
MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Single Door & Divider
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Durable, includes divider for growth, easy to assemble, and has a secure slide-bolt latch.
Measure your Bulldog from nose to tail and add a few inches for comfort. A 36-inch crate works for most adults.
02
Ventilation
Brachycephalic breeds need ample airflow. Wire crates offer the best ventilation; plastic crates should have multiple vents.
03
Durability
Bulldogs can be strong chewers. Look for heavy-gauge wire or reinforced plastic with secure latches.
04
Ease of Cleaning
Removable, leak-proof trays make cleanup easy. Some crates have slide-out pans for quick maintenance.
05
Portability
If you travel, consider a foldable wire crate or an airline-approved plastic kennel. Weight and handle design matter.
Living With It
Care, Cost and Maintenance
Cleaning
Wipe down the crate weekly with pet-safe disinfectant. Wash removable trays with soap and water.
Inspection
Check for loose wires, broken latches, or sharp edges regularly to prevent injury.
Comfort
Add a soft bed or mat, but avoid bulky bedding that might obstruct airflow. Ensure the crate is in a quiet, temperature-controlled area.
Pro tip
Place a familiar blanket or toy inside the crate and cover it partially with a light sheet to create a cozy, den-like environment that reduces anxiety.
Frequently asked questions
What size crate does a Bulldog need?
Most adult Bulldogs need a 36-inch crate. Measure your dog from nose to tail and add 2-4 inches for comfort.
Are wire crates safe for Bulldogs?
Yes, wire crates offer excellent ventilation, which is crucial for brachycephalic breeds. Ensure the spacing is narrow enough to prevent paw injuries.
Can Bulldogs travel in plastic crates?
Yes, plastic crates like the Petmate Sky Kennel are airline-approved and provide a secure, den-like space for travel.
How do I crate train my Bulldog?
Introduce the crate gradually with positive reinforcement. Use treats and toys, and never use the crate as punishment.
Should I get a divider for my Bulldog puppy?
Yes, a divider helps adjust the crate size as your puppy grows, preventing them from using one end as a bathroom.
What if my Bulldog escapes crates?
Consider a heavy-duty crate with reinforced locks. Ensure the crate is properly assembled and check for weak points.
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.
