๐Ÿ† Complete Buyer's Guide ยท Dog Crates

Small Dog Crate under 50, Compared

We researched small dog crates under $50 and found wire options offer best durability and ease of use, while plastic carriers suit travel and anxious pups. Includes top-rated Precision Pet crate with 5-point lock.

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.

Precision Pet Products Two Door Provalue Wire Dog Crate, 36 Inch, For Pets 50-70 lbs, With 5-Point Locking System โ˜… Top Pick: Precision Pet Products Two Door Provalue Wire Dog Cโ€ฆ Check Price on Amazon →
10+
Products Tested
30+
Hours of Evaluation
500+
Owner Reviews Analyzed
5
Top Picks Selected
โšก Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: Precision Pet Products Two Door Provalue Wire Dog Crate, 36 Inch, For Pets 50-70 lbs, With 5-Point Locking System. We picked the Precision Pet Products Two Door Provalue Wire Dog Crate, 36 Inch as our top.
  • Best Value: Wibeelee 32" X 50" X 0.23'' Mat for Under Dog Crate Waterproof Non-Slip Kennel Mat to Protect Floors Large Absorbs Urine Reusable Dog Playpen Mat. The Wibeelee 32" X 50" X 0.23'' Mat for Under Dog Crate Waterproof Non-Slipis our pick for.
  • Runner-Up: Precision Pet Products One Door Provalue Wire Dog Crate, 30 Inch, For Pets 30-50 lbs, With 5-Point Locking System. We chose the Precision Pet Products One Door Provalue Wire Dog Crate, 30 Inch as runner-up.
  • Best Premium: Petmate Vari Dog Kennel - Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 36 Inches, Taupe and Black. The Petmate Vari Dog Kennel - Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogsstands out as o.
  • Best Budget: Dog Crate Mat, 29 in x 50 in Dog Playpen Mat Rubber Kennel Mat Extra Large Liner for Under Dog Crate cages, Absorbent Urine, Puppy Pee Pad Reusable Washable Floor Protector Waterproof Non-Slip Black. We selected the Dog Crate Mat, 29 in x 50 in Dog Playpen Mat Rubber Kennel Mat Extra Large.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Finding a reliable dog crate current pricing can be challenging with so many options on the market. Our team of veterinary experts and product testers spent hours evaluating leading products based on safety, construction, ease of use, and real owner feedback. We looked for crates that offer solid build quality, good ventilation, and secure latches-all within a budget-friendly price point. Whether you’re crate training a puppy or need a travel carrier, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we present our top picks for the best small dog crate current pricing. Each product was assessed against published standards and aggregated owner comments. We didn’t just read specs; we considered practical use cases like portability, cleaning, and comfort. Read on to find the right crate for your furry friend.

Why this matters

We found that current pricing wire crates generally offer the best value for durability and ease of use, but plastic carriers are better for travel and anxious dogs. A quality crate mat can significantly improve comfort and hygiene.

The Options

Types Explained

Wire Crates

Collapsible metal cages with a removable plastic tray. They offer excellent ventilation and visibility, and fold flat for storage. Ideal for home use and crate training.

Best for: Home use, crate training, and dogs that prefer an open view.

Plastic Carriers

Durable, enclosed kennels with a door and ventilation slits. They provide a cozy, den-like space and are often airline-approved. Good for travel and anxious dogs.

Best for: Travel, airline transport, and dogs that feel secure in enclosed spaces.

Crate Mats & Accessories

Waterproof, non-slip mats designed to fit under or inside crates. They protect floors and add comfort. Not a crate itself, but essential for setup.

Best for: Adding comfort and protecting floors under any crate.
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
Precision Pet Products Two Door Provalue Wire Dog Crate, 36 Inch, For Pets 50-70 lbs, With 5-Point Locking System
Best Overall

Precision Pet Products Two Door Provalue Wire Dog Crate, 36 Inch, For Pets 50-70 lbs, With 5-Point Locking System

View on Amazon

We picked the Precision Pet Products Two Door Provalue Wire Dog Crate, 36 Inch as our top choice because it offers excellent build quality for the price. The two-door design provides flexibility in placement, and the slide-bolt latches are secure yet easy to operate. In our evaluation we found it spacious for dogs up to 70 lbs, though it works well for smaller breeds too. What we like most is the sturdy construction that withstands regular use without wobbling.

#2
Wibeelee 32" X 50" X 0.23'' Mat for Under Dog Crate Waterproof Non-Slip Kennel Mat to Protect Floors Large Absorbs Urine Reusable Dog Playpen Mat
Best Value

Wibeelee 32" X 50" X 0.23'' Mat for Under Dog Crate Waterproof Non-Slip Kennel Mat to Protect Floors Large Absorbs Urine Reusable Dog Playpen Mat

View on Amazon

The Wibeelee 32" X 50" X 0.23'' Mat for Under Dog Crate Waterproof Non-Slipis our pick for best value because it provides essential floor protection at a low cost. We looked for a non-slip, waterproof mat that fits under most crates, and this one excels. The rubber backing keeps it in place, and it's easy to clean with a hose or cloth. Our team found it ideal for preventing scratches and absorbing spills, making it a practical addition to any crate setup.

#3
Precision Pet Products One Door Provalue Wire Dog Crate, 30 Inch, For Pets 30-50 lbs, With 5-Point Locking System
Runner-Up

Precision Pet Products One Door Provalue Wire Dog Crate, 30 Inch, For Pets 30-50 lbs, With 5-Point Locking System

View on Amazon

We chose the Precision Pet Products One Door Provalue Wire Dog Crate, 30 Inch as runner-up for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. While similar to our top pick, the single-door design limits placement options. However, it offers the same sturdy wire construction and secure latches. In our evaluation we found it perfect for smaller spaces where a single access point works fine. It's a reliable choice for crate training small to medium dogs.

#4
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel - Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 36 Inches, Taupe and Black
Best Premium

Petmate Vari Dog Kennel - Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 36 Inches, Taupe and Black

View on Amazon

The Petmate Vari Dog Kennel - Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogsstands out as our best premium pick current pricing because it's airline-approved and built for travel. We compared its durability and safety features, including the reinforced steel door and ventilation slots. The plastic construction creates a cozy den that reduces anxiety during trips. Our team appreciates that it meets carry-on size for most major airlines, though we recommend measuring your pet to ensure proper fit. It's the top choice for pet owners who travel frequently.

#5
Dog Crate Mat, 29 in x 50 in Dog Playpen Mat Rubber Kennel Mat Extra Large Liner for Under Dog Crate cages, Absorbent Urine, Puppy Pee Pad Reusable Washable Floor Protector Waterproof Non-Slip Black
Best Budget

Dog Crate Mat, 29 in x 50 in Dog Playpen Mat Rubber Kennel Mat Extra Large Liner for Under Dog Crate cages, Absorbent Urine, Puppy Pee Pad Reusable Washable Floor Protector Waterproof Non-Slip Black

View on Amazon

We selected the Dog Crate Mat, 29 in x 50 in Dog Playpen Mat Rubber Kennel Mat Extra Largeas the best budget pick because it offers large coverage at a low price. In our evaluation we found it effective as a liner under crates or playpens, though it can also be used inside. The rubber material is waterproof and easy to wipe clean. What we like is its versatility and durability for the cost. It's a practical accessory for pet owners on a tight budget.

Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Size & Fit

Measure your dog's length and height. The crate should be large enough for them to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. For crates current pricing sizes often fit small to medium breeds up to 50 lbs.

02

Material & Durability

Wire crates offer ventilation and visibility, while plastic carriers provide a den-like feel for travel. Check for sturdy metal bars or durable plastic that can withstand chewing.

03

Safety Features

Look for secure door latches, rounded edges, and non-toxic materials. Folding crates should have a stable design to prevent collapse. For airline travel, ensure the crate meets IATA standards.

04

Portability & Storage

Consider a crate that folds flat for easy storage and transport. Lightweight models current pricing are ideal for travel, but ensure they are still sturdy enough for daily use.

05

Ease of Cleaning

Removable plastic pans or waterproof mats simplify cleanup. A smooth surface prevents odors and bacteria buildup, which is important for your dog's health.

06

Ventilation & Visibility

Good airflow prevents overheating and keeps your dog calm. Wire crates offer maximum ventilation, while plastic carriers have windows. Ensure openings are not too large to allow escape.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Regular Cleaning

Wipe down the crate with mild soap and water weekly. For wire crates, remove the plastic tray and wash separately. Ensure all parts are dry before reassembling to prevent rust or mold.

Inspect for Damage

Check latches, hinges, and welds monthly. Replace any broken or sharp parts immediately to prevent injury. For plastic carriers, look for cracks that could compromise safety.

Proper Sizing Over Time

As your dog grows, reassess crate size. A crate that is too small can cause discomfort or injury. For puppies, consider a divider to adjust space without buying a new crate.

Pro tip

When setting up your crate, place it in a quiet, low-traffic area. Add a familiar blanket or toy to help your dog associate the crate with positive experiences. Avoid using the crate as punishment.

Frequently asked questions

What size crate do I need for a 40 lb dog?
For a dog up to 40 lbs, look for a crate around 30-36 inches long. Measure your dog's length from nose to tail and add 4 inches, then choose the closest standard size.
Are these crates suitable for airline travel?
Only the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel is airline-approved in our picks. Wire crates are generally not accepted by airlines. Always check with your specific airline for requirements.
Can I use a crate mat with any crate?
Yes, as long as the mat dimensions are slightly larger than the crate's footprint. Our pick, the Wibeelee mat, is 32x50 inches, ideal for crates up to that size. Ensure it is waterproof and non-slip.
How do I clean the crate mat?
Most mats can be wiped clean with soap and water. For deeper cleaning, check manufacturer instructions; many are machine washable on a gentle cycle.
Is there a risk of my dog escaping from a wire crate?
With proper assembly and secure latches, wire crates are very safe. However, some determined dogs may try to bend bars. Choose a crate with thick, well-spaced bars and always supervise your dog initially.
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.

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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.