6 Best Dog Crate Mats and Pads for Comfort and Chewing (2026)

By Caleb Morgan

Updated November 2026

Choosing dog crate mats and pads comes down to a few practical questions: will it fit your crate, will it stay put, can it be washed, and will your dog leave it in one piece? This guide compares six options with those criteria in mind. We looked at listed dimensions, materials, anti-slip bottoms, machine-washable or wipeable claims, and the patterns owners tend to describe in reviews, including how pads hold up to chewing. No product here was personally tested by us; the notes reflect manufacturer specifications and common owner feedback.

Our Top Picks

Quick Comparison

Ultra Soft Kennel Pad, Anti-Slip Bottom, 36-Inch

Ultra Soft Kennel Pad,Anti-Slip Bottom,Fits Most Metal Crates,Comfortable Sleeping Pet Mat Dog Crate Pad Washable Dog Bed for Crate Medium Cozy Mat 36-Inch Gray

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Best for: Most metal crates, everyday use For a deeper look, Dog Crate Mats and Pads: Sizing and Chew Resistance covers this in detail.

This is a good fit for owners who want a soft, comfortable crate pad that stays where it is placed. It is sized for 36-inch crates, a common size for medium dogs.

Key specs

• Listed size: 36 inches
• Anti-slip bottom
• Machine-washable top, per the listing

Pros

• Anti-slip base helps it stay in place on metal crate floors
• Plush top is comfortable for resting
• Washable for routine cleaning

Cons

• Not designed for heavy chewers
• Sizing needs to match your crate closely

Bottom line: A solid default choice for owners with a 36-inch metal crate who want comfort and easy cleaning without paying for specialty features.

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Exsnugy Washable Dog Bed Mat, 36×23

Fits Most Metal Crates Non-Slip Bottom Kennel Beds Ultra Soft Comfy Sleeping Mattress for Large Medium Small Dogs Gray Exsnugy Washable Dog Bed Mat Medium Size Fluffy Pet Crate Pad 36×23

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Best for: Metal crates with a fluffy feel

Owners looking for a plusher surface for a small to large dog in a metal crate may find this a good match. The listing describes it as suitable for small, medium and large dogs.

Key specs

• Listed size: 36×23 inches
• Non-slip bottom
• Washable, per the listing

Pros

• Fluffy top offers a cozy resting surface
• Non-slip base for stability
• Size suits many medium crates

Cons

• Plush fabric may attract more hair and debris
• Not intended for aggressive chewing

Bottom line: Best for owners who prioritize a soft, fluffy feel in a standard metal crate and are willing to vacuum or wash it regularly.

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Dog Bed Mat – Soft & Comfortable Kennel Pad

Dog Bed Mat – Soft & Comfortable Dog Kennel Pad for Crate – Durable Crate Bed & Mat for Dogs & Cats – Ideal for Crate, Kennel, and Home Use

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Best for: Multi-pet households

This pad is described for both dogs and cats, which makes it useful if more than one pet shares a crate space or a room. It is marketed for crate, kennel and home use.

Key specs

• Designed for crates, kennels and general home use
• Listed for dogs and cats
• Durable construction, per the listing

Pros

• Versatile across crates and rooms
• Suitable for more than one pet type
• Soft surface for comfortable resting

Cons

• Exact dimensions and washing instructions should be confirmed on the listing before buying
• Not specifically engineered for heavy chewers

Bottom line: A flexible choice for households with several animals or owners who want one pad that works in more than one setting.

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Durable Chew-Resistant Dog Crate Pad, Medium (22×35)

Durable,for Aggressive Chewers,Tough,chew resistant, non chewable,Easy-Clean Surface,Indoor Outdoor Chew Proof Indestructible Dog Crate Pad,Medium (22"x35")

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Best for: Aggressive chewers

If your dog shreds bedding, this is the type of pad to consider. The listing emphasizes chew resistance, an easy-clean surface and indoor-outdoor use, which suits dogs that chew bedding or go through pads quickly.

Key specs

• Listed size: medium, 22×35 inches
• Chew-resistant, easy-clean surface, per the listing
• Indoor and outdoor use

Pros

• Designed with chewing in mind
• Easy surface to wipe clean
• Works indoors and outdoors

Cons

• Chew-resistant claims do not mean chew-proof; supervise a determined chewer
• Firmer feel than plush pads for some dogs

Bottom line: The most sensible pick among these for dogs that destroy soft bedding, especially when paired with the right crate size and supervision.

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KSIIA Washable Dog Bed Medium Plush Pet Mat, 35×23

Deluxe Plush Comfy Kennel Pad, Anti-Slip Bottom,Deep Sleeping Mat for Medium Dogs,Machine Washable for Easy Cleaning KSIIA Washable Dog Bed Medium Size Dog Crate Bed Plush Pet Mat 35"x23" Gray

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Best for: Budget-conscious buyers

Owners who want a plush, washable pad without a premium price tag may find this a practical option. It is sized for medium crates and includes an anti-slip bottom, per the listing.

Key specs

• Listed size: 35×23 inches
• Plush top, deep-sleeping style
• Anti-slip bottom and machine-washable, per the listing

Pros

• Plush, comfortable surface
• Machine-washable for easy cleaning
• Anti-slip base helps it stay put

Cons

• Not built for heavy chewing
• Plush pads may need more frequent washing

Bottom line: A good value-oriented choice for medium dogs in standard crates when comfort and washability matter most.

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Wipeable Kennel Mat, Waterproof, 41×27

Wipeable Kennel Mat Pet Sleeping for Medium Large Dogs, Waterproof, Outdoor, Anti-Slip, Suit for Travel, Trunk, Dark Grey Outdoor XL Dog Crate Pad Bed, Reversible Waterproof Wipeable Mat, 41×27

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Best for: Large dogs, travel and outdoor use

This waterproof, reversible mat suits owners who need a pad that can handle accidents, muddy paws or road trips. Its larger listed dimensions fit XL crates and car crate setups.

Key specs

• Listed size: 41×27 inches
• Waterproof and wipeable, per the listing
• Reversible, anti-slip design

Pros

• Waterproof surface handles accidents well
• Large size suits XL crates
• Reversible for longer use

Cons

• Less plush than fabric pads, which some dogs may not prefer
• Check that the listed size matches your crate’s interior floor

Bottom line: Best for large dogs, puppies in training and anyone who needs a pad that is easy to wipe down after travel or accidents.

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Buying Guide

Size and Fit

Measure the interior floor of your crate, not the outside dimensions, and buy a pad that fits with a small margin. A pad that overhangs can bunch up, while one that is too small leaves gaps where a dog can get a paw or chewed corner. For guidance on measuring, see How to Size a Dog Crate: Measure Your Dog Correctly and Large Dog Crate Dimensions: How to Measure and Choose the Right Size.

Good picks for this: Ultra Soft Kennel Pad, Anti-Slip Bottom, 36-Inch; Wipeable Kennel Mat, Waterproof, 41×27

Anti-Slip Bottom

A pad that slides across the crate floor can bunch up and create a trip or pinch hazard. Look for a non-slip base, especially for metal or plastic crate floors, where smooth surfaces make sliding more likely.

Good picks for this: Exsnugy Washable Dog Bed Mat, 36×23; KSIIA Washable Dog Bed Medium Plush Pet Mat, 35×23

Chew Resistance

Some dogs treat bedding as something to destroy. Chew-resistant materials and tightly woven surfaces reduce the risk, but no pad is entirely chew-proof. If your dog swallows fabric, contact a veterinarian promptly. Supervise any dog with a known chewing habit and remove a pad that has been torn into pieces.

Good picks for this: Durable Chew-Resistant Dog Crate Pad, Medium (22×35); Dog Bed Mat – Soft & Comfortable Kennel Pad

Washability and Cleaning

Check whether the cover is machine-washable or wipeable. Plush pads are comfortable but collect hair and need regular laundering, while waterproof surfaces are easier after accidents but may feel firmer. Follow the care label, and let the pad dry fully before returning it to the crate.

Good picks for this: Ultra Soft Kennel Pad, Anti-Slip Bottom, 36-Inch; Wipeable Kennel Mat, Waterproof, 41×27

Thickness and Comfort

Thicker padding feels softer, but it can also raise the floor and reduce space in a small crate. Choose a level of cushioning that suits your dog’s age and sleeping habits. Older dogs with joint stiffness may benefit from more padding, while many adult dogs do well with a moderate layer.

Good picks for this: Exsnugy Washable Dog Bed Mat, 36×23; Dog Bed Mat – Soft & Comfortable Kennel Pad

Use Case: Home, Travel or Outdoor

A pad for daily home crate use has different needs than one for car travel or outdoor kennel use. Travel pads should be lightweight and easy to clean, while outdoor pads need water resistance. Consider how and where the pad will be used before buying.

Good picks for this: Wipeable Kennel Mat, Waterproof, 41×27; Ultra Soft Kennel Pad, Anti-Slip Bottom, 36-Inch

Durability

Look at stitching, seam quality and the material described in the listing. Durable covers hold up through repeated washing and use. Owners often report that thinner covers wear out sooner, so a sturdier construction can save replacement trips over time.

Good picks for this: Durable Chew-Resistant Dog Crate Pad, Medium (22×35); KSIIA Washable Dog Bed Medium Plush Pet Mat, 35×23

FAQ

Are dog crate mats and pads safe for puppies?

Many owners use pads for puppies, but puppies are more likely to chew and swallow fabric. Choose a chew-resistant pad, supervise puppies with bedding, and remove any pad that is torn. For puppy-specific setup, see Making a Dog Crate Comfortable and Safe.

How do I know what size crate pad to buy?

Measure the interior floor of the crate and choose a pad slightly smaller than that measurement so it lies flat. Check the listed dimensions carefully, since sizes vary by brand.

Should I put a pad in a wire crate?

Pads can be used in wire crates, but anti-slip bottoms are especially helpful on wire or metal floors. Make sure the pad does not block airflow or get pulled through the wires.

How often should I wash a crate pad?

Wash it whenever it gets soiled or smelly, and at least weekly for dogs that sleep on it daily. Dry it completely before returning it to the crate to prevent odor and moisture buildup.

Can a crate pad cause overheating?

Thick or plush pads can trap heat, especially in warm rooms or closed crates. Watch for signs of overheating such as heavy panting or restlessness, and ensure good ventilation. If you have concerns about your dog’s temperature regulation, consult a veterinarian.

Are there alternatives to pads for crate comfort?

Some owners use blankets or washable beds instead. Avoid loose blankets with long strings or loose threads, which dogs may chew. For context on crate setup, see Introducing Your Dog to a Crate Step by Step.

Conclusion

For most owners with a standard metal crate, the Ultra Soft Kennel Pad is a sensible starting point, while the Exsnugy pad suits those who want a fluffier surface. Dogs that chew should go to the chew-resistant option, and multi-pet homes may prefer the versatile kennel pad. The waterproof wipeable mat is the choice for large dogs, travel and accident-prone puppies, and the KSIIA pad is a practical budget-minded pick. Measure your crate first, check the cleaning instructions, and supervise any new pad until you know how your dog treats it.

Sources

• Guidance on crate sizing, crate training and dog bedding for different life stages (akc.org)
• Veterinary information on pet safety, including the risks of ingesting fabric and bedding (avma.org)
• Consumer safety information on products and hazards relevant to pet bedding and accessories (cpsc.gov)

About Caleb Morgan

Caleb Morgan is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our dogs & puppies guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.