Australian Shepherds are escape artists. Get a sturdy crate like the MidWest iCrate with secure latches. A 36-42 inch wire crate with a divider works for puppies and adults.
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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.
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
#1
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).
Choose a crate that allows your Aussie to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. For adult Aussies, 36-42 inches long is ideal.
02
Material
Wire crates offer airflow and visibility; plastic kennels provide security and are better for travel. Heavy-duty metal for chewers.
03
Security
Look for secure slide-bolt latches or lockable doors. Aussies are smart and can figure out simple latches.
04
Portability
Fold-flat wire crates are easy to transport. Plastic kennels with handles are good for car travel.
05
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.
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.
