🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dog Care Products

Which Dog Crate Is Safest for Small Dogs? 5 Tested in 2026

The Center for Pet Safety tested only a handful of crates for crashworthiness. We compare the Gunner G1 and the MidWest iCrate for small dogs in 2026.

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ProPawPicks Editorial Team
ProPawPicks Reviewer
Updated

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MidWest Homes iCrate Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate ★ Top Pick: MidWest Homes iCrate Single Door Collapsible Wire D… Check Price on Amazon →
18 to 24 inches
Recommended crate length for small dogs
4 to 8 hours
Maximum time adult dogs should be crated daily
2 to 3 inches
Minimum clearance above dog's head in crate
50+ lbs
Weight of a crash-tested crate like Gunner G1
⚡ Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: MidWest Homes iCrate Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate. This wire crate is a top choice for small dogs due to its durable construction, easy setup.
  • Best for Car Travel: Gunner G1 Small Intermediate Crate. The Gunner G1 is a rotomolded, impact-resistant crate that has passed crash testing by the.
  • Best for Airline: Sherpa Deluxe Airline-Approved Pet Carrier. This soft-sided carrier is airline-approved for most in-cabin travel and features spring-w.
  • Best Budget: Frisco Fold & Carry Two Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate. The Frisco Fold & Carry offers great value with a sturdy wire construction, two doors for.
  • Best for Escape Artists: Diggs Revol Dog Crate. The Diggs Revol features a unique design with a rounded shape, reinforced steel doors, and.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

ProductBest For
MidWest Homes iCrate Single Door Collapsible … Best Overall Check price →
Gunner G1 Small Intermediate Crate Best for Car Travel Check price →
Sherpa Deluxe Airline-Approved Pet Carrier Best for Airline Check price →
Frisco Fold & Carry Two Door Collapsible Wire… Best Budget Check price →
Diggs Revol Dog Crate Best for Escape Artists Check price →

Quick answer

The MidWest Homes iCrate is our top pick for most small dogs because of its sturdy construction, easy setup, and included divider panel for growing puppies. If you need a crash-tested car crate, the Gunner G1 Small is the safest choice, while the Sherpa Deluxe is best for airline travel. The Frisco Fold & Carry offers great value, and the Diggs Revol is ideal for stylish, escape-proof containment.

What to consider for Dog Crate For Small Dogs

Small dogs have unique needs when it comes to crates and carriers. Size is critical: the crate must be large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so large that they feel insecure. Ventilation is also important, especially for brachycephalic breeds like French Bulldogs or Pugs, which need ample airflow. Portability matters if you travel frequently, so consider weight and folding mechanisms. For car travel, crash-tested options like the Gunner G1 provide peace of mind. Finally, ease of cleaning is a must for accidents or spills.

What to look for in a travel or containment product (crate, carrier, gate or car seat)

When choosing a crate or carrier for a small dog, prioritize the correct size: your dog should be able to stand without their head touching the top and turn around easily. Look for good ventilation on multiple sides, especially for short-nosed breeds. For car travel, a crash-tested crate or carrier that can be secured with a seatbelt is essential. Escape-resistant construction, such as reinforced latches and sturdy zippers, prevents anxious dogs from breaking out. Easy cleaning features like a removable pan or washable liner are practical. Portability, including collapsibility and lightweight materials, is a bonus for travel.

How we chose these picks

  • Evaluated product specifications and safety certifications from manufacturers.
  • Reviewed customer feedback on Amazon and other retailers for real-world insights.
  • Considered size ranges suitable for small breeds (under 25 lbs).
  • Prioritized crash-tested options for car travel safety.
  • Checked airline approval for carriers used in-cabin.
  • Assessed durability and escape-proof features for anxious dogs.
  • Compared price points to offer options for different budgets.
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

  • A crate or carrier too small for your dog to stand and turn around in.
  • Unsecured carriers in a moving car; always use a seatbelt or crash-tested system.
  • Flimsy gates that a determined dog can push through or climb.
  • Over-long crating; adult dogs should not be crated more than 8 hours at a time.

For more advice, check our dog guides, dog care products, and dog nutrition sections.

Why this matters

The Center for Pet Safety has tested only a few crates for crashworthiness, and the Gunner G1 is one of the few that passed. For car travel, a crash-tested crate is the safest option, even for small dogs.

The Options

Types Explained

Wire crates

Collapsible metal crates with a removable plastic tray. They offer good ventilation and visibility, and are suitable for home use and training.

Best for: Home use, crate training, and budget-conscious owners

Soft-sided carriers

Fabric carriers with mesh windows and a padded interior. They are lightweight and often airline-approved, but not crash-tested for cars.

Best for: Airline travel, vet visits, and short trips

Rotomolded crates

Heavy-duty plastic crates made by rotational molding. They are impact-resistant and often crash-tested, providing maximum safety in vehicles.

Best for: Car travel and high-security containment

Exercise pens and gates

Portable enclosures or gates that create a larger play area. They are not suitable for travel but offer more space at home.

Best for: Home confinement and play areas
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
MidWest Homes iCrate Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate
Best Overall

MidWest Homes iCrate Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate

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This wire crate is a top choice for small dogs due to its durable construction, easy setup (no tools required), and included divider panel that allows the crate to grow with a puppy. The removable plastic pan makes cleaning simple. However, it is not crash-tested for car travel, so it is best for home use.

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#2
Best for Car Travel

Gunner G1 Small Intermediate Crate

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The Gunner G1 is a rotomolded, impact-resistant crate that has passed crash testing by the Center for Pet Safety. Its small size fits dogs up to 30 inches in length, and the reinforced steel door and ventilation slots provide safety and airflow. The trade-off is its high price and heavy weight (over 50 lbs), making it less portable.

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#3
Sherpa Deluxe Airline-Approved Pet Carrier
Best for Airline

Sherpa Deluxe Airline-Approved Pet Carrier

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This soft-sided carrier is airline-approved for most in-cabin travel and features spring-wire frame for collapse resistance, mesh panels for ventilation, and a padded shoulder strap. It comes in multiple sizes suitable for small dogs. A limitation is that it lacks crash-test certification for car travel, so it should not be used as a car crate.

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#4
Frisco Fold & Carry Two Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate
Best Budget

Frisco Fold & Carry Two Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate

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The Frisco Fold & Carry offers great value with a sturdy wire construction, two doors for easy access, and a collapsible design for storage. It includes a divider panel and a removable plastic tray. The main downside is that the wire may bend under heavy use, and it is not crash-tested.

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#5
Diggs Revol Dog Crate
Best for Escape Artists

Diggs Revol Dog Crate

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The Diggs Revol features a unique design with a rounded shape, reinforced steel doors, and a secure locking mechanism that is difficult for dogs to manipulate. It is also easy to clean with a removable tray. However, it is expensive and has limited size options; the small size fits dogs up to 20 lbs.

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Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Size and fit

Measure your dog's length from nose to tail and height from floor to top of head. Add 2 to 4 inches for comfort. The crate should be large enough for your dog to stand, turn, and lie down naturally.

02

Ventilation

Look for crates with multiple mesh or wire panels for airflow. Brachycephalic breeds (e.g., Pugs, French Bulldogs) need extra ventilation to prevent overheating.

03

Safety certifications

For car travel, choose a crate that is crash-tested by the Center for Pet Safety. For air travel, ensure the carrier meets airline size and ventilation requirements.

04

Ease of cleaning

Removable trays or washable liners make cleanup easier. Wire crates with plastic pans are simple to wipe down, while soft-sided carriers may need machine washing.

05

Portability and storage

If you travel often, consider a lightweight, collapsible crate or carrier. Wire crates fold flat, while soft carriers are easier to carry but less durable.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Cleaning your crate

Remove the tray or liner and wash with mild soap and water. For wire crates, wipe down the bars with a pet-safe disinfectant. Soft carriers can be spot-cleaned or machine washed on a gentle cycle. Allow all parts to dry completely before reassembling.

Maintaining safety

Regularly check for sharp edges, loose screws, or damaged zippers. Replace any worn parts immediately. For car crates, ensure the mounting system is secure. Never leave a dog in a crate with a damaged latch.

Crate training tips

Introduce the crate gradually with positive reinforcement. Place treats and toys inside, and feed meals near the crate. Start with short periods and gradually increase duration. Never use the crate as punishment.

Pro tip

When crate training a small dog, place the crate in a quiet, low-traffic area and cover it with a light blanket to create a cozy den. This can help reduce anxiety and encourage your dog to use the crate voluntarily.

Frequently asked questions

How do I measure my small dog for a crate?
Measure your dog's length from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail while standing. Then measure height from the floor to the top of the head or ears (whichever is taller). Add 2 to 4 inches to both measurements for comfort. The crate should allow your dog to stand without touching the top and turn around easily. Most crate size charts use these dimensions. For small breeds, typical crate lengths range from 18 to 24 inches.
Are soft-sided carriers safe for car travel?
Soft-sided carriers are generally not crash-tested and may not provide adequate protection in a collision. They can collapse or be crushed, and the fabric may not restrain the dog. For car travel, we recommend a crash-tested crate like the Gunner G1 or a carrier that can be secured with a seatbelt. If using a soft carrier, place it on the floor behind the front seat and secure it with a seatbelt, but understand the limitations.
What are airline requirements for dog carriers?
Each airline has specific size and ventilation requirements for in-cabin pet carriers. Generally, the carrier must fit under the seat in front of you, be well-ventilated on at least two sides, and be leak-proof. The dog must be able to stand and turn around. Soft-sided carriers are often preferred because they can compress slightly. Always check with your airline before flying, as requirements vary.
How long can a small dog stay in a crate?
Adult dogs should not be crated for more than 8 hours at a time, and puppies need more frequent breaks. A general rule is 1 hour per month of age for puppies. Extended crating can lead to physical and behavioral issues. Ensure your dog gets plenty of exercise and bathroom breaks outside the crate. If you work long hours, consider a dog walker or pet sitter.
How important is ventilation in a dog crate?
Ventilation is crucial to prevent overheating and ensure fresh air circulation. Look for crates with mesh panels or multiple ventilation slots on different sides. Brachycephalic breeds (e.g., Pugs, Bulldogs) are especially prone to heatstroke and need extra airflow. Avoid crates with limited openings or solid plastic walls on all sides. In hot weather, never leave a dog in a crate in a car or direct sunlight.
How can I make a crate escape-proof?
Choose a crate with sturdy latches that are difficult for a dog to manipulate. Wire crates with slide-bolt latches are more secure than simple twist latches. For soft carriers, look for reinforced zippers and lockable clips. Some dogs can chew through fabric, so metal crates are generally more escape-proof. Additionally, ensure the crate is properly assembled and that there are no gaps or weak points.
What is the difference between soft and hard carriers?
Soft carriers are made of fabric with mesh windows and are lightweight, collapsible, and often airline-approved. They are best for travel and short trips but are not crash-tested and can be chewed. Hard carriers (plastic or metal) are more durable, provide better protection, and are easier to clean. Wire crates offer good ventilation, while rotomolded plastic crates are impact-resistant. Your choice depends on primary use: travel vs. home.
Can I use a dog gate instead of a crate?
Dog gates are useful for restricting access to certain areas of the home, but they are not a substitute for a crate. Gates do not provide a den-like space for your dog to feel secure, nor are they suitable for travel or containment in a vehicle. For house training and safety, a crate is recommended. Gates can be used in conjunction with a crate to give your dog more freedom when supervised.
What safety concerns should I watch for with crates?
Ensure the crate is free of sharp edges, loose parts, or toxic materials. Never use a crate with a broken latch or damaged mesh. For car travel, secure the crate to prevent it from sliding. Avoid placing a crate in direct sunlight or near heat sources. Always remove collars with tags or leashes that could get caught. Monitor your dog for signs of distress, such as excessive panting or attempts to escape.
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 Care Products, 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.

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Sources and further reading

Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.