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Best Overall: MidWest Homes. Durable with a high-impact plastic pan that resists chewing.
Best for Travel: EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate. Lightweight yet sturdy with mesh panels for maximum airflow, crucial for heat-sensitive En.
Best Premium: Pro Select Empire Cage. Heavy-duty with a powder-coated steel frame and a reinforced door that can contain a deter.
Best Budget: Precision Pet Products One Door Provalue Wire Dog Crate, 19 Inch. Affordable yet well-ventilated with 19-gauge wire that holds up to bulldog strength.
Best for Travel (Airline Approved): Petmate Ultra Vari Dog Kennel. Airline-approved with excellent ventilation and a sturdy construction.
Editor Pick: TRIXIE Pet Products Scratch-Resistant Metallic Crate. Designed for breeds with short snouts, featuring wide wire spacing for airflow and a round.
Choosing the right dog crate for your English Bulldog is crucial for their safety and comfort. Their brachycephalic (flat-faced) build makes them prone to overheating, so ventilation is key. A well-sized crate also supports their joint health and prevents anxiety. Our editorial team researched the best crates that cater to these unique needs.
We focused on features like airflow, durability for a strong breed, and easy cleaning for their sensitive skin. Below are our top picks based on real-world feedback and expert insights.
Open and well-ventilated, ideal for English Bulldogs at home. They offer good visibility and airflow but may require a cover for crate training. Look for models with a divider panel for growing pups.
Plastic/Vari Kennels
Suitable for travel and veterinary visits, but can retain heat. If used, ensure ample ventilation holes and never leave a bulldog inside in warm conditions. Most are airline-approved.
Soft-Sided Crates
Lightweight and portable, but not for destructive dogs. Best for well-trained adult bulldogs in cool environments. Ensure mesh panels are large for airflow.
The Rankings
Top 6 Picks
#1
Best Overall
MidWest Homes
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Durable with a high-impact plastic pan that resists chewing. Double doors offer flexibility for placement, and the included divider panel lets you adjust space as your bulldog grows.
Lightweight yet sturdy with mesh panels for maximum airflow, crucial for heat-sensitive English Bulldogs. Folds flat for easy transport, and the three doors provide easy access.
Heavy-duty with a powder-coated steel frame and a reinforced door that can contain a determined bulldog. The leak-proof base is easy to clean, and the raised design improves ventilation.
Precision Pet Products One Door Provalue Wire Dog Crate, 19 Inch
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Affordable yet well-ventilated with 19-gauge wire that holds up to bulldog strength. Includes a divider panel and a plastic pan that is simple to wipe down.
Airline-approved with excellent ventilation and a sturdy construction. The recessed handles and metal fasteners ensure secure travel, and the wire door allows for airflow even when closed.
TRIXIE Pet Products Scratch-Resistant Metallic Crate
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Designed for breeds with short snouts, featuring wide wire spacing for airflow and a rounded front door to prevent chin rubbing. The fold-flat design makes storage easy.
English Bulldogs overheat easily due to their brachycephalic airway. Choose a crate with ample mesh or wire sides to ensure constant airflow. Avoid solid plastic crates unless used for short periods in cool environments.
02
Size and Space
Bulldogs are muscular and need room to stand, turn, and lie flat. Measure your dog from nose to tail and add 4-6 inches for comfort. A crate that is too small can cause joint stress and anxiety.
03
Durability
Bulldogs are strong and may push against crate doors. Look for heavy-gauge wire or reinforced plastic with secure latches. Avoid flimsy materials that can bend or break.
04
Ease of Cleaning
English Bulldogs are prone to drooling and skin issues. A removable, leak-proof tray or washable crate pad simplifies maintenance. Smooth surfaces resist bacteria buildup.
05
Portability
If you travel, consider a lightweight, foldable crate that meets airline requirements. Bulldogs often accompany owners, so a crate that is easy to carry and set up is beneficial.
06
Comfort Features
Add a breathable, orthopedic crate pad to support their joints. Avoid plush bedding that traps heat. Some crates come with covers that can be used to create a den-like, calming environment.
Living With It
Care, Cost and Maintenance
Cleaning Schedule
Wipe down the crate tray daily with a pet-safe disinfectant. Wash the crate pad weekly or as needed. For wire crates, a quick spray of water and vinegar can remove drool and odors.
Temperature Monitoring
Always keep the crate in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Use a crate fan or cooling mat on hot days. Never cover the crate with a blanket that restricts airflow.
Crate Training Tips
Start with short sessions, using treats and praise. Bulldogs respond well to positive reinforcement. Ensure the crate is a positive space, never used for punishment.
Health Checks
Inspect the crate regularly for sharp edges or damage that could injure your bulldog's skin. Check that latches are secure to prevent escapes.
Pro tip
Our team suggests using a crate with a removable, washable pad and placing it in a cool, quiet area of your home. For English Bulldogs, a crate cover should be used only if it is breathable and does not trap heat. Always ensure your bulldog has access to fresh water, especially during warmer months.
Frequently asked questions
What size crate does an English Bulldog need?
Most English Bulldogs require a 36-inch or 42-inch crate, depending on their weight and build. Measure your dog from nose to tail and add 4-6 inches. A crate should allow them to stand, turn around, and lie flat comfortably.
Can English Bulldogs overheat in a crate?
Yes, due to their flat faces, English Bulldogs are prone to heatstroke. Choose a crate with excellent ventilation, such as wire or mesh, and place it in a cool, shaded area. Never leave them in a crate in a hot car or direct sunlight.
Are soft-sided crates safe for English Bulldogs?
Soft-sided crates are generally not recommended for English Bulldogs as they can be easily torn and may not provide enough ventilation. However, they can be used for short periods during travel if the dog is calm and the environment is cool.
How do I crate train an English Bulldog?
Start by making the crate inviting with treats and a comfortable pad. Use positive reinforcement and short sessions. Bulldogs can be stubborn, so patience is key. Gradually increase time and always associate the crate with positive experiences.
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 Dogs, 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.
