A dog crate is one of the most useful tools for house training, safe travel, and giving a dog a calm den, so we compared folding metal crates across sizes and door configurations. In our evaluation we focused on security, ease of folding, and how well each size matches real breed weights, drawing on manufacturer specs and aggregated owner feedback rather than fabricated stress tests. What we like about a quality folding crate is the balance of a secure latch system with tool free setup, since a crate that collapses for storage and travel earns its place. We recommend sizing by your dog’s adult weight and standing height, not by guesswork, because a crate that is too small is uncomfortable and one that is too large can undermine house training. Each pick below is framed around a specific breed size or need, so you can choose the right kennel for a puppy, a medium dog, or an extra large breed.
What Size Dog Crate Is Best? Our Top 5 Picks for 2026
Sizing is key: a crate should let your dog stand, turn, and lie down. We review the FDW Extra Large 48-inch crate with divider panel and 4 more top choices for 2026.
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★ Top Pick: FDW Extra Large Dog Crate Dog Kennel Cage with Doub…
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- Best for Extra Large Dogs: FDW Extra Large Dog Crate Dog Kennel Cage with Double Door,48 inch Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Removable Tray&Divider Panel,Pet Crate for Large Dogs,Black. We recommend the FDW 48 inch double door crate for big breeds that need maximum space and.
- Best Overall: MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble. We chose the MidWest iCrate 36 inch for medium to large breeds in the 41 to 70 pound range.
- Best for Medium Dogs: MidWest Homes for Pets 30-Inch iCrate for Medium Breeds, 21-40 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latch, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble. We picked the MidWest iCrate 30 inch for medium breeds in the 21 to 40 pound range.
- Best Value: Dog Crate,36x25x25 Inch Large Dog Crate for Large or Medium Dogs, Portable and Foldable Design of Dog Cage, Perfect for Travel or Home Use, Dog Kennel with 3-Door and Durable Mesh Windows, Light Grey. We like this 36 by 25 by 25 inch crate as a portable, foldable option for large or medium.
- Best Portable: ZOMISIA Collapsible Dog Crate for Dogs - 28" L Heavy Duty Dog Kennel No Tools Required with 4 Sides Steel Foldable Cage for Dogs Indoor Furniture, Portable Carrier with 2 Smooth Wheels, Beige. We recommend the ZOMISIA 28 inch collapsible crate for its heavy duty, no tools required s.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best For | |
|---|---|---|
| FDW Extra Large Dog Crate Dog Kennel Cage wit… | Best for Extra Large Dogs | Check price → |
| MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Med… | Best Overall | Check price → |
| MidWest Homes for Pets 30-Inch iCrate for Med… | Best for Medium Dogs | Check price → |
| Dog Crate,36x25x25 Inch Large Dog Crate for L… | Best Value | Check price → |
| ZOMISIA Collapsible Dog Crate for Dogs - 28" … | Best Portable | Check price → |
Sizing is the deciding factor with crates. A crate should let your dog stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, while too much space can slow house training and too little is simply uncomfortable.
Types Explained
Single door folding crate
A collapsible wire crate with one access door, ideal for corner placement.
Best for: Owners with a fixed crate spot who want simple, secure containment.Double door folding crate
A wire crate with two doors for flexible access in tight or shared spaces.
Best for: Rooms where the crate placement limits which side opens easily.Extra large heavy duty crate
A larger, sturdier crate built for big breeds needing room and strength.
Best for: Large and extra large dogs that need space and a secure enclosure.Top 5 Picks
FDW Extra Large Dog Crate Dog Kennel Cage with Double Door,48 inch Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Removable Tray&Divider Panel,Pet Crate for Large Dogs,Black
We recommend the FDW 48 inch double door crate for big breeds that need maximum space and flexible access. What we like is the generous footprint paired with a folding metal build for storage.
MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
We chose the MidWest iCrate 36 inch for medium to large breeds in the 41 to 70 pound range with a dependable single door design. In our evaluation its trusted construction and divider compatibility made it the most versatile pick.
MidWest Homes for Pets 30-Inch iCrate for Medium Breeds, 21-40 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latch, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
We picked the MidWest iCrate 30 inch for medium breeds in the 21 to 40 pound range. Its single door folding design offers the same reliable security in a right sized footprint.
Dog Crate,36x25x25 Inch Large Dog Crate for Large or Medium Dogs, Portable and Foldable Design of Dog Cage, Perfect for Travel or Home Use, Dog Kennel with 3-Door and Durable Mesh Windows, Light Grey
We like this 36 by 25 by 25 inch crate as a portable, foldable option for large or medium dogs at an accessible everyday spend. It covers core containment needs without extra frills.
ZOMISIA Collapsible Dog Crate for Dogs - 28" L Heavy Duty Dog Kennel No Tools Required with 4 Sides Steel Foldable Cage for Dogs Indoor Furniture, Portable Carrier with 2 Smooth Wheels, Beige
We recommend the ZOMISIA 28 inch collapsible crate for its heavy duty, no tools required setup that travels well. It suits owners who fold and move the crate often.
Key Buying Factors
Correct size for adult weight
Choose a crate matching your dog's adult weight and standing height, with room to stand, turn, and lie down. For puppies, a divider lets you grow the space as they do.
Door configuration
Single door crates suit corner placement, while double door models offer flexible access in tight rooms. Match the door layout to where the crate will sit.
Security and latches
Strong slide bolt latches resist clever dogs that paw at doors. Escape prone dogs need secure, tested latches more than anything else.
Folding and portability
A crate that folds flat without tools stores and travels easily. Check the folded thickness and whether it includes a carry handle.
Durability of the wire
Heavier gauge wire resists bending from strong or anxious dogs. Lightweight wire suits calm dogs but bends under determined pressure.
Floor tray and cleaning
A removable plastic tray makes cleanup simple after accidents. Confirm the tray slides out fully and is sized to the crate.
Care, Cost and Maintenance
Introduce the crate positively
Make the crate a calm den with treats and a comfortable mat rather than a punishment space. Gradual, positive introduction prevents anxiety and resistance.
Clean the tray regularly
Slide out the plastic tray and wipe it down after accidents or weekly. A clean crate stays odor free and more inviting for your dog.
Check latches and wire
Inspect latches, joints, and wire periodically for bending or wear, especially with strong dogs. Replace or repair any crate where the security is compromised.
For a growing puppy, buy the crate sized for their adult weight and use a divider panel. This gives them just enough room as they grow without buying a second, larger crate later.
Frequently asked questions
What size crate does my dog need?
Should I get a single or double door crate?
Are folding metal crates secure for escape prone dogs?
How do I crate train a puppy?
How do I clean a wire dog crate?
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.
More Dog Crates guides
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.