Contents
- The Top 10
- Top 10 Dog Kennels Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Best Overall
- 2. Best Splurge
- 3. Best Compact
- 4. Best Design
- 5. Best for Daily Use
- 6. Best Heavy-Duty
- 7. Best Lightweight
- 8. Best Budget
- 9. Most Versatile
- 10. Best for Small Spaces
- Dog Kennels Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- How to Choose Dog Kennels
- What to look for
- Frequently asked questions
Choosing the best dog kennel can be tough because there are so many options. The MidWest 30-Inch Single Door iCrate is our top pick. It measures 30.5 x 19.25 x 21.5 inches, making it a great fit for medium breeds like French Bulldogs and Dachshunds. For a value option, consider the FDW 30″ Foldable Metal Dog Crate; it offers a similar design but lacks some of the advanced features.
The main tradeoff in this category is between size and durability. A larger kennel may be heavier and harder to move, while a smaller one can be more portable but less sturdy. This guide helps you understand the options available and find the right fit for your dog.
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The Top 10
Top 10 Dog Kennels Reviewed in Detail
This list features the best dog kennels for various sizes and needs.
1. Best Overall
Midwest 30-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Medium Breeds, 21-40 lbs
- IDEAL FOR 21-40 LB DOGS: Measures 30.5 x 19.25 x 21.5 inches – perfect for French Bulldogs, Welsh Terriers, Dachshunds & similar breeds. For dogs near 40 lbs, consider sizing up to our 36-inch model so they have plenty of room to get comfortable.
- WE DON’T CUT CORNERS, WE PERFECT THEM: Precision welding, rounded corner clips & slide-bolt latch with Paw Block mitigate snags, cuts & escapes. With rigorous safety testing, iCrate provides peace of mind knowing your dog is safe while you’re away.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Sturdy metal wire design with a protective black e-coat finish, the iCrate resists rust and everyday wear. Complete with leak-proof tray, rubber feet, carry handle, and tool-free assembly, it’s ready for years of use.
- SUPPORTS CRATE TRAINING: A divider panel lets the crate grow with your dog, from puppy kennel to full-size crate. Large openings and low thresholds ease the crate training process and help your dog feel more at home.
- LIFE GOES BETTER WITH PETS: A family-owned business based in Indiana, MidWest Homes for Pets brings over 100 years of pet product expertise and a commitment to quality, rigorous safety testing, and excellent US-based customer service.
The MidWest 30-Inch Single Door iCrate is great for medium breeds. It fits dogs weighing 21-40 lbs. This crate measures 30.5 x 19.25 x 21.5 inches. Dogs like French Bulldogs and Dachshunds fit well. It has good construction with precision welding. You can feel confident it will last.
Pros
- Sturdy metal construction for durability
- Rounded corners for safety
- Easy to assemble and clean
Cons
- Heavy for transport
- Not suitable for large breeds
- May not be chew-proof for teething puppies
Best for: Medium-sized dogs. Not ideal for: Large breeds or heavy chewers.
This kennel is a reliable choice for medium-sized dogs.
2. Best Splurge
Midwest 42-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs
- IDEAL FOR 71-90 LB DOGS: Measures 42.5 x 28.5 x 30.5 inches – perfect for Australian Shepherds, Boxers, Golden Retrievers & similar breeds. For dogs near 90 lbs, consider sizing up to our 48-inch model so they have plenty of room to get comfortable.
- WE DON’T CUT CORNERS, WE PERFECT THEM: Precision welding, rounded corner clips & slide-bolt latch with Paw Block mitigate snags, cuts & escapes. With rigorous safety testing, iCrate provides peace of mind knowing your dog is safe while you’re away.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Sturdy metal wire design with a protective black e-coat finish, the iCrate resists rust and everyday wear. Complete with leak-proof tray, rubber feet, carry handle, and tool-free assembly, it’s ready for years of use.
- SUPPORTS CRATE TRAINING: A divider panel lets the crate grow with your dog, from puppy kennel to full-size crate. Large openings and low thresholds ease the crate training process and help your dog feel more at home.
- LIFE GOES BETTER WITH PETS: A family-owned business based in Indiana, MidWest Homes for Pets brings over 100 years of pet product expertise and a commitment to quality, rigorous safety testing, and excellent US-based customer service.
For larger dogs, the MidWest 42-Inch Single Door iCrate is suitable. It fits dogs weighing 71-90 lbs, like Golden Retrievers. The crate measures 42.5 x 28.5 x 30.5 inches. It also has precision welding for durability. Consider the 48-inch model for dogs close to 90 lbs.
Pros
- Spacious design for larger breeds
- Durable construction for long-term use
- Easy to assemble and clean
Cons
- Less portable due to its size
- May be expensive compared to smaller models
- Not chew-proof for aggressive chewers
Best for: Large breeds needing space. Not ideal for: Owners who travel frequently.
This kennel is a great choice for larger dogs who need room.
3. Best Compact
FDW | 48" Foldable Metal Dog Crate | Dark Black | Cage for XL Dogs
- 【Durable Construction】Our dog crate is made of sturdy, rust-resistant metal wire, making it durable and able to handle energetic puppies. Its durable design makes it resistant to deterioration, giving it a dependable option for extended usage.Dog cage dog crate dog kennel
- 【Leak-Proof Plastic Tray】This dog crate features a detachable, leak-proof plastic tray that runs the length of the crate, making cleanup simple in the event of an accident. For dog dishes that won’t slip, look for a textured surface.Dog cage dog crate dog kennel
- 【Double Door Convenience】There are two ways to enter our dog crate: the front entrance and the side door. Numerous ways to enter and exit this dog kennel are available. When putting the crate in confined areas where a front door can be blocked or for anxious dogs who might prefer a side entry, this is really useful.Dog cage dog crate dog kennel
- 【Easy To Set Up】Any dog lover should own one of these crates. You don’t want to be spending a lot of time while on vacation, therefore it’s crucial that our puppy playpen is easy to put together and take down. Metal dog cage canine kennel with handle for dogs.Dog cage dog crate dog kennel
- 【After-Sale Service】Please feel free to contact our customer service if you have any questions or have any issues with the dog crate while using it. We guarantee that you will receive the finest solution and the most expert technical assistance. Dog cage dog crate dog kennel
The FDW 48″ Foldable Metal Dog Crate is designed for extra-large dogs. Made of strong metal wire, it resists rust. This crate is great for energetic puppies. It includes a leak-proof plastic tray for easy cleaning. This one is built to last.
Pros
- Durable rust-resistant metal construction
- Leak-proof plastic tray for easy cleaning
- Foldable for convenient storage
Cons
- Takes up more storage space when folded
- Heavy for regular transport
- Limited ventilation compared to wire designs
Best for: Extra-large dogs needing space. Not ideal for: Owners with limited storage.
This crate is a dependable choice for large breeds.
4. Best Design
Amazon Basics Portable Metal Wire Dog Crate for Large Dogs, Double Door with Removable Tray, Divider Panel, Easy to Assemble, 48" x 30" x 32.5", Black
- 48-inch dog crate for pets under 46 x 28.5 inches (LxH), like a Bernese, Labrador, Rottweiler, or Great Dane
- Durable metal wire construction with manual door locking mechanism for secure containment ;2 doors (front and side) and a divider for adjusting the internal space
- Sets up quickly and folds down flat for easy transport or compact storage; top handle for comfortable carrying ; Removable plastic base tray for easy cleaning; Fasten the bar buckle in front of the tray after installing the tray
- Metal hook at the bottom of the crate to prevent plastic tray from moving out. Please lock the hook well after installing the tray everytime in daily use
- Product Dimensions: 48 x 30 x 32.5 inches (LxWxH)
- Please read all safety instructions prior to use. Note: Your dog should be able to stand up and turn around comfortably while in the crate. Measure from nose to base of tail when standing, and from top of head to floor. Add 4 inches to those measurements to confirm optimal crate height and length.
Amazon Basics has a portable metal wire dog crate. It measures 48 x 30 x 32.5 inches. This one fits large dogs under 46 inches long. It features two doors for easy access. The crate folds flat for quick storage.
Pros
- Double door design for easy access
- Durable metal wire construction for security
- Removable tray for easy cleaning
Cons
- Door locking mechanism can be unreliable
- Not chew-proof for aggressive dogs
- Requires more assembly time than others
Best for: Large dogs needing easy access. Not ideal for: Strong escape artists.
This kennel offers a practical solution for large dog owners.
5. Best for Daily Use
Midwest 36-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs
- IDEAL FOR 41-70 LB DOGS: Measures 36.5 x 23.25 x 24.75 inches – perfect for Bulldogs, Beagles, Whippets & similar breeds. For dogs near 70 lbs, consider sizing up to our 42-inch model so they have plenty of room to get comfortable.
- WE DON’T CUT CORNERS, WE PERFECT THEM: Precision welding, rounded corner clips & slide-bolt latches with Paw Block mitigate snags, cuts & escapes. With rigorous safety testing, iCrate provides peace of mind knowing your dog is safe while you’re away.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Sturdy metal wire design with a protective black e-coat finish, the iCrate resists rust and everyday wear. Complete with leak-proof tray, rubber feet, carry handle, and tool-free assembly, it’s ready for years of use.
- SUPPORTS CRATE TRAINING: A divider panel lets the crate grow with your dog, from puppy kennel to full-size crate. Large openings and low thresholds ease the crate training process and help your dog feel more at home.
- BECAUSE LIFE GOES BETTER WITH PETS: A family-owned business based in Indiana, MidWest Homes for Pets brings over 100 years of pet product expertise and a commitment to quality, rigorous safety testing, and excellent US-based customer service.
The MidWest 36-Inch Single Door iCrate works for medium to large breeds. It fits dogs weighing 41-70 lbs. This crate measures 36.5 x 23.25 x 24.75 inches. It is also durable, thanks to precision welding. Choose the larger 42-inch model for dogs closer to 70 lbs.
Pros
- Sturdy construction with rounded corners
- Easy to assemble and clean
- Suitable for medium to large breeds
Cons
- Heavy for transport
- Not suitable for small dogs
- Less effective for aggressive chewers
Best for: Medium to large breeds. Not ideal for: Small breeds or frequent travelers.
This kennel is a solid, reliable choice for many dog owners.
6. Best Heavy-Duty
Sweetcrispy Dog Crate 42 Inch, Medium Large Dog Cage, Foldable Pet Kennel
- Enhanced Security: With rounded edges, smooth rounded corners and matching accessories, our dog crates prioritize safety. Thick metal mesh and double doors with 2 heavy-duty sliding bolt locks not only prevent your dog from escaping, but also provide optimal protection for your pet
- Sturdy and Durable: Our dog crates are made of high quality materials for durability. The sturdy construction ensures that it stands up to wear and tear, making it a reliable choice for long-term use. The double door (one door on the front and one on the side) design feature also makes it easy to place and use in any space
- Easy to Carry: Our dog crate is collapsible, giving you the flexibility to take it with you wherever you go. Folded for space-saving, easy storage, it’s perfect for traveling, camping, or any on-the-go adventures with your furry friend
- Maximum Comfort: The spacious interior of our dog crate ensures that your pet feels comfortable and secure. The open, breathable design promotes air circulation, creatting a comfortable environment for your pet to relax
- Easy to Clean and Maintain: Our dog crate features a durable, leak-proof ABS composite tray that is Easy to Clean and Maintain. It resists stains, warping, corrosion, and odors, ensuring a hygienic and comfortable environment for your pet
Sweetcrispy’s 42-inch dog crate is foldable and secure. It has rounded edges and two heavy-duty locks. This ensures your dog stays safe inside. The thick metal mesh adds strength and durability. This crate is great for medium to large dogs.
Pros
- Enhanced security with heavy-duty locks
- Thick metal mesh for durability
- Easy access with double doors
Cons
- Takes up more space than some models
- Can be heavy for transport
- Might require more assembly time
Best for: Owners prioritizing safety. Not ideal for: Small spaces.
This kennel is a strong choice for security-focused dog owners.
7. Best Lightweight
Amazon Basics Sturdy Portable 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Pet Travel Carrier with Secure Ventilation, Handle, Front & Top Entry for Dogs, Cats, 22.8"L x 15"W…
- Hard sided pet carrier with 2 doors for front and top entry; suitable for cat or medium size dog weighing 12 – 20 pounds
- Durable plastic construction with steel wire doors; screws keep the top and bottom sections securely connected
- Spring load latches ensure easy one-handed door opening and closing; top door swings open to the left or right and includes a top carry handle
- Plenty of air ventilation on the sides, top, and back of the carrier
- Note: Be sure to measure the size of the pet when choosing carrier size
- Product Dimensions: 22.8 x 15 x 13 inches (LxWxH)
- Selecting item based on the height and length of the pet. The weight is for reference only.
The Amazon Basics Sturdy Portable Carrier is a hard-sided option. It works for dogs and cats weighing 12-20 lbs. This carrier has two entry points for easy access. The durable plastic and steel wire ensure safety. It is easy to carry with a handle.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Hard-sided design ensures safety
- Two doors for easy access
Cons
- Not suitable for larger dogs
- May not be durable for heavy chewers
- Limited space for movement
Best for: Small dogs traveling. Not ideal for: Larger breeds.
This travel carrier is a great choice for small dogs.
8. Best Budget
DWVO 7.5'x7.5' Outdoor Dog Enclosure with Roof
- Unmatched Durability: This outdoor dog house is made from galvanized thick steel pipes to ensure high strength and durability; The overall structure remains stable; The upgraded door lock ensures secure closure and reduces accidental opening
- Durable Water-resistant UV Cover: The dog pen comes with a water-resistant and UV-resistant canopy that protects your dogs from harsh weather conditions; The lockable outdoor dog cage door enables easy access for feeding and cleaning
- Suitable for Various Types of Animals: Our outdoor dog kennel offers abundant room for dogs to play, run, and exercise; Not limited to dogs alone, it can also serve as an ideal sanctuary for chickens, rabbits, ducks, and other small animals to create a harmonious environment for all
- Multiple Size Options Available: Our outdoor dog fences are crafted in three sizes to cater to your needs; Whether for pet training, resting, or outdoor play, our fences are the ideal choice
- Easy to Install: Our dog crate comes with an upgraded user manual and numbered accessories for an easy installation; We’ve also included gloves to promote a comfortable and seamless installation process
DWVO offers a 7.5’x7.5′ outdoor dog enclosure. It is made from strong galvanized steel pipes. This ensures high durability and stability. The water-resistant cover protects against the elements. It is suitable for outdoor use.
Pros
- Durable galvanized steel construction
- Water-resistant UV cover for all weather
- Spacious design for multiple dogs
Cons
- Requires significant outdoor space
- Not suitable for indoor use
- Heavier than portable models
Best for: Outdoor living. Not ideal for: Indoor use.
This enclosure is a great option for outdoor dog owners.
9. Most Versatile
FDW | 30" Foldable Metal Dog Crate | Black | Cage for Medium Dogs
- 【Durable Construction】Our dog crate is made of sturdy, rust-resistant metal wire, making it durable and able to handle energetic puppies. Its durable design makes it resistant to deterioration, giving it a dependable option for extended usage.Dog cage dog crate dog kennel
- 【Leak-Proof Plastic Tray】This dog crate features a detachable, leak-proof plastic tray that runs the length of the crate, making cleanup simple in the event of an accident. For dog dishes that won’t slip, look for a textured surface.Dog cage dog crate dog kennel
- 【Double Door Convenience】There are two ways to enter our dog crate: the front entrance and the side door. Numerous ways to enter and exit this dog kennel are available. When putting the crate in confined areas where a front door can be blocked or for anxious dogs who might prefer a side entry, this is really useful.Dog cage dog crate dog kennel
- 【Easy To Set Up】Any dog lover should own one of these crates. You don’t want to be spending a lot of time while on vacation, therefore it’s crucial that our puppy playpen is easy to put together and take down. Metal dog cage canine kennel with handle for dogs.Dog cage dog crate dog kennel
- 【After-Sale Service】Please feel free to contact our customer service if you have any questions or have any issues with the dog crate while using it. We guarantee that you will receive the finest solution and the most expert technical assistance. Dog cage dog crate dog kennel
FDW’s 30″ Foldable Metal Dog Crate is perfect for medium dogs. It is built from rust-resistant metal wire. This makes it durable and long-lasting. The crate includes a leak-proof tray for easy cleaning. It’s a good option for medium-sized pets.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Foldable for easy storage
- Leak-proof tray for easy cleaning
Cons
- Limited space for larger breeds
- Not chew-proof for energetic dogs
- Requires assembly
Best for: Medium dogs in small spaces. Not ideal for: Large breeds.
This compact crate is a reliable option for small homes.
10. Best for Small Spaces
Hzuaneri 31.5'' Dog Crate Furniture,Dog Kennel Indoor for Small/Medium Dogs
- Anti-Chew & Anti-Escape: We know how important it is to keep your pets comfortable. We use 0.4 inch heavy duty iron pipe, double welding points and thickened engineered wood, and each door has 2 locks to provide multiple layers of protection to reduce your dog from escape!
- Decorative Pet Cage: This is more than just a dog kennel indoor, it can also be used as a TV stand, coffee table or side table in the living room. In the bedroom, it can be used as a nightstand or placed at the foot of the bed
- Size Fits Your Dogs: The internal size of this dog furniture crate 29.3″L x 19.8″W x 22.4″H, suitable for small/medium dog breeds such as French Bulldogs, Corgis and Dachshunds
- 3-Door Design: Our dog crates feature a 3-door design that allows for easy access from the front and sides for your furry friend
- Unique Arch Door: Our furniture dog crate adopts a novel arch design, which blends in with many modern furniture styles. The and elegant style of the arch creates a clean, tidy and comfortable living environment for you
Hzuaneri’s 31.5” Dog Crate Furniture is stylish and functional. It suits small to medium dogs. The anti-chew and anti-escape features keep pets safe. It has strong iron pipes and double locks. This one also serves as decorative furniture.
Pros
- Stylish design that blends with home decor
- Heavy-duty construction for durability
- Anti-chew features for security
Cons
- Limited ventilation compared to wire options
- Not suitable for larger breeds
- May be heavy for some users
Best for: Stylish dog owners. Not ideal for: Larger breeds.
10
Dog Kennels Compared Side by Side
The following table outlines the key features of each kennel. You will find their size, construction materials, and special features. This will help you identify the best dog kennel for your needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Midwest 30-Inch Single Door iCrate | Best Overall | MidWest Homes For Pets | $49.99 | Check |
| 2 | Midwest 42-Inch Single Door iCrate | Best Splurge | MidWest Homes For Pets | $97.99 | Check |
| 3 | FDW | 48" Foldable Metal Dog Crate | Dark Black | Cage… | Best Compact | FDW | $64.89 | Check |
| 4 | Amazon Basics Portable Metal Wire Dog Crate for Large Dogs | Best Design | Amazon | $100.64 | Check |
| 5 | Midwest 36-Inch Single Door iCrate | Best for Daily Use | MidWest Homes For Pets | $71.99 | Check |
| 6 | Sweetcrispy Dog Crate 42 Inch | Best Heavy-Duty | Sweetcrispy | $53.92 | Check |
| 7 | Amazon Basics Sturdy Portable 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided… | Best Lightweight | Amazon “This product may originate from China or Cambodia" | $31.87 | Check |
| 8 | DWVO 7.5'x7.5' Outdoor Dog Enclosure with Roof | Best Budget | DWVO | $129.5 | Check |
| 9 | FDW | 30" Foldable Metal Dog Crate | Black | Cage for… | Most Versatile | FDW | $29.99 | Check |
| 10 | Hzuaneri 31.5'' Dog Crate Furniture,Dog Kennel Indoor for… | Best for Small Spaces | Hzuaneri | $119.99 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Research Sources
We looked at several reputable pet product sites. This includes customer reviews, expert opinions, and product specifications. We combined these sources to ensure accurate information.
Selection Criteria
We focused on durability, safety features, and customer feedback. Products needed to have positive ratings to be included. We dropped any that had consistent complaints about quality.
Comparative Analysis
We compared products based on size, material, and features. This helped us see which options were best for different types of dogs. Each kennel was evaluated on its strengths and weaknesses.
User Feedback
We considered real user experiences to guide our choices. Feedback provided insights into how well products perform over time. We prioritized those with high satisfaction ratings.
Error Reporting
If any information seems incorrect, please let us know. We strive for accuracy and appreciate reports of errors. Your feedback helps us keep our recommendations trustworthy.
How to Choose Dog Kennels
Measure Your Dog
Start by measuring your dog’s height and length. This helps you choose the right kennel size. Make sure they can stand, turn, and lie down comfortably. Use these measurements to guide your selection.
Consider Your Dog’s Behavior
Think about your dog’s habits. If they chew a lot, a metal crate may be better. For calm dogs, a plastic or fabric crate could work. Understanding your pet’s behavior will help you choose wisely.
Evaluate Your Needs
Decide where you will use the kennel. Is it for home, travel, or both? This affects the type of kennel you should choose. Portable options are great for travel, while sturdy ones suit home use.
Check for Safety Features
Look for kennels with secure locks and rounded edges. Safety is important to prevent escapes and injuries. Inspect the construction and materials to ensure they are safe for your pet.
Read Reviews
Look for customer reviews online. They provide insight into the product’s quality and performance. See what other pet owners say about their experiences. This can guide you in making a better choice.
What to look for
Size Matters
Choose a kennel that fits your dog comfortably. Measure their height and length. Ensure they can stand up, turn around, and lie down easily. For small dogs, a smaller crate will work well. Larger breeds need more space.
Material Quality
Kennels come in metal, plastic, and fabric. Metal is durable and safe for chewing. Plastic is lightweight and easier to clean. Fabric crates are portable but less sturdy. Consider your dog’s behavior when choosing material.
Safety Features
Look for rounded edges and secure locks. These features keep your dog safe and reduce escape risks. Heavy-duty bolts and double locks are great for added security. Safety should be a priority in your choice.
Portability
If you travel often, consider a portable kennel. These are easy to fold and store. Look for lightweight materials that are still durable. A good travel kennel should be easy to carry and set up.
Cleaning Ease
Choose a kennel with a removable tray for easy cleaning. This helps maintain hygiene for your pet. Look for materials that resist rust and are easy to wipe down. Keeping it clean ensures a healthy environment.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best dog kennel for a medium breed?
The MidWest 30-Inch Single Door iCrate is great for medium breeds.
Are metal crates better than plastic ones?
Metal crates are often more durable and resistant to chewing.
Can I use a dog kennel for travel?
Yes, many kennels are portable and suitable for travel.
How do I choose the right size dog kennel?
Measure your dog’s length and height, then refer to kennel sizes.
What features should a good dog kennel have?
Look for durability, security, and easy cleaning options.
Shopping around? We have 10 more dog kennel guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- ASPCA dog care ASPCA
- AVMA pet owner resources American Veterinary Medical Association
About the author
