By Audrey HayesUpdated November 2026
Choosing a medium size dog crate sounds simple until you realize that “medium” covers everything from a 20-pound beagle to a 40-pound spaniel mix. The right crate gives your dog enough room to stand, turn around and lie down stretched out, without so much extra space that it becomes a den for accidents. This list focuses on folding metal wire crates in the 30- to 36-inch range, the sizes most often recommended for medium breeds. Our selection criteria were product specifications, brand reputation, and patterns in owner feedback about fit, latch security, tray design and portability. We did not test these crates ourselves; the notes below reflect what manufacturers state and what owners commonly report.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallMidwest 30-Inch Single Door iCrateView on Amazon - 2
TOP CHOICEBest for larger medium dogsDUMOS 36 Inch Dog CrateView on Amazon - 3
TOP CHOICEBest for training and home useFDW 30" Foldable Metal Dog CrateView on Amazon - 4
Best budget pickAmazon Basics Foldable Metal Wire Dog CrateView on Amazon - 5
Best for compact spacesDUMOS 30 Inch Dog CrateView on Amazon - 6
Best for frequent accessSweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog CrateView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Midwest 30-Inch Single Door iCrate | Medium breeds, 21–40 lbs | Divider panel and leak-proof tray |
| DUMOS 36 Inch Dog Crate | Larger medium dogs | Double door and plastic pan tray |
| FDW 30″ Foldable Metal Dog Crate | Training and travel | Double door with divider |
| Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate | Budget-minded buyers | Removable tray and quick setup |
| DUMOS 30 Inch Dog Crate | Compact spaces | Single door, foldable frame |
| Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate | Frequent access and secure closing | Secure lock and removable tray |
Midwest 30-Inch Single Door iCrate
Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latch, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble Midwest 30-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Medium Breeds, 21-40 lbs
Best for: Medium breeds, 21–40 lbs
This is the crate most people picture when they hear “medium size dog crate.” It suits owners who want a familiar, well-established design and a crate that can be used at home for daily confinement and occasionally for travel. The 30-inch length is a common fit for dogs in the mid-weight range who need room to stand and turn.
Key specs
- 30-inch length, sized for medium breeds
- Single door with secure latch
- Removable divider panel for growing puppies
- Leak-proof tray included
Pros
- The divider panel lets you adjust space as a puppy grows.
- Folds flat for storage and simple transport.
- Widely available replacement parts, according to owner reports.
Cons
- The single door means you reach in from one side only.
- Wire spacing may not suit dogs prone to chewing bars.
Bottom line: A dependable first choice for owners who want a proven design and plan to use the crate mostly at home.
DUMOS 36 Inch Dog Crate
Double Door Metal Wire, Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Portable Indoor Outdoor Training Travel DUMOS 36 Inch Dog Crate, Puppy Small Medium Foldable Dog Cage Pet Kennel
Best for: Larger medium dogs and multi-purpose use
The 36-inch length gives more floor space than the 30-inch models, which can help dogs at the upper end of the medium range who need extra room to stretch. The double door layout also makes it easier to load a dog from either side, a useful feature in tight rooms.
Key specs
- 36-inch length
- Double door design
- Plastic leak-proof pan tray
- Indoor and outdoor use
Pros
- Extra length suits larger medium dogs.
- Two doors allow flexible placement against a wall.
- Tray is easy to slide out and clean.
Cons
- Larger footprint may not fit small apartments.
- Some owners note the frame is lighter than heavier-gauge crates.
Bottom line: Best for owners whose dog needs more length than a standard 30-inch crate provides.
FDW 30″ Foldable Metal Dog Crate
Heavy Duty, Portable Wire Kennel with Double Door, Divider & Leak-Proof Tray | For Training, Home, Travel Indoor/Outdoor Use FDW | 30" Foldable Metal Dog Crate | Black | Cage for Medium Dogs
Best for: Training, home and travel use
This crate is built for owners who plan to use it across several settings: a training routine at home, a bedroom setup overnight, and trips in the car. The double door and divider panel make it adaptable as a dog’s needs change.
Key specs
- 30-inch foldable metal frame
- Double door with divider panel
- Leak-proof tray
- Black finish
Pros
- Divider panel supports gradual space expansion during training.
- Double doors suit both indoor setup and vehicle loading.
- Folds for storage between uses.
Cons
- Wire spacing may be wider than some owners prefer for small puppies.
- Assembly takes some patience, based on common owner comments.
Bottom line: A versatile option for owners who want one crate for training, home and travel.
Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate
Amazon Basics Portable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Single Door, Divider Panel, Quick Setup, 30 x 19 x 21 in, Black
Best for: Budget-minded buyers who want a straightforward crate
This is a budget pick for owners who need a simple, functional crate and do not require extras like a double door. It is a sensible option for a dog who will mostly rest in the crate during the day or overnight. For another angle, check out Medium Size Dog Crate Dimensions: How to Measure and Choose the Right Fit.
Key specs
- 30 x 19 x 21 inches
- Single door
- Removable tray and divider panel
- Black metal wire construction
Pros
- Straightforward design with few parts to manage.
- Removable tray simplifies cleanup.
- Quick setup, according to owner feedback.
Cons
- Single door limits access options.
- Thinner wire may not hold up to determined chewers.
Bottom line: A practical choice for owners who want a no-frills crate that meets basic needs.
DUMOS 30 Inch Dog Crate
Single Door Metal Wire, Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Portable Indoor Outdoor Training Travel DUMOS 30 Inch Dog Crate, Foldable Puppy Small Medium Dog Cage Pet Kennel
Best for: Compact spaces
The 30-inch single-door version of this design suits owners with limited floor space who still need a crate sized for a medium dog. Its foldable frame makes it easy to store in a closet or behind a door when not in use.
Key specs
- 30-inch length
- Single door
- Plastic leak-proof pan tray
- Foldable frame
Pros
- Smaller footprint than 36-inch crates.
- Folds down for storage.
- Tray helps contain accidents.
Cons
- Less room than larger crates for dogs at the top of the medium weight range.
- Single door means a fixed loading direction.
Bottom line: Suited to apartments and smaller homes where space is limited but the dog still fits comfortably.
Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate
Double Door, Metal Kennel, Secure Lock, Removable Tray, Indoor Outdoor Training Travel Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate, Medium Dog Cage, Foldable Puppy Pet Kennel
Best for: Frequent access and secure closing
This crate emphasizes a secure lock and easy access, which can matter for owners who open and close the crate many times a day or who live with a dog that tends to push doors open.
Key specs
- 36-inch length
- Double door
- Secure lock
- Removable tray
Pros
- Secure lock is a common priority for escape-prone dogs.
- Double doors provide flexible access.
- Removable tray is easy to clean.
Cons
- Larger size requires more floor space.
- Lock mechanisms vary in ease of use, according to some owner comments.
Bottom line: Good for owners who want a secure door and easy access, provided they have room for a 36-inch crate.
Buying Guide
Check the length, width and height
Measure your dog from nose to base of tail and add 2 to 4 inches for the length of the crate. Height should allow your dog to stand with ears upright, and width should let them turn around comfortably. For more detail, see How to Size a Dog Crate: Measure Your Dog Correctly and How to Measure Your Dog for a Crate.
Good picks for this: Midwest 30-Inch Single Door iCrate, DUMOS 36 Inch Dog Crate
Decide between single and double doors
A single door is simpler and often sufficient. Double doors help when the crate must sit against a wall or when you want to load the dog from either side. Consider where the crate will live before deciding.
Good picks for this: FDW 30″ Foldable Metal Dog Crate, Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate
Look for a divider panel if you have a puppy
A divider lets you limit the space to prevent a young dog from soiling one end of the crate. You can widen the space as the puppy grows. For training strategy, see Potty Training Dog Crate: A Step-by-Step Guide for New Puppy Owners.
Good picks for this: FDW 30″ Foldable Metal Dog Crate, Midwest 30-Inch Single Door iCrate
Consider tray design and cleanup
A removable, leak-proof tray makes cleaning faster and helps protect the floor. Look for a tray that slides out easily and fits snugly under the wire base.
Good picks for this: Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate, DUMOS 36 Inch Dog Crate
Evaluate wire gauge and latch security
Dogs that chew or push against doors need sturdier wire and a locking mechanism that cannot be easily nudged open. Heavier wire and a positive latch are worth prioritizing. For background on crate materials, see Wire Dog Crates: Home Use and Limits.
Good picks for this: Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate, Midwest 30-Inch Single Door iCrate
Plan for portability and storage
Foldable crates store flat in a closet and are easier to move. If you travel, check that the crate fits your vehicle and matches airline or car-travel guidance. See Travel Dog Crate Collapsible: 6 Best Picks for Trips in 2026.
Good picks for this: DUMOS 30 Inch Dog Crate, Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate
Match the crate to your intended use
A crate for nightly rest needs different features than one for crate training or long car rides. Think about how many hours per day the dog will spend inside and how you plan to use the crate. For structured routines, see Schedule for Crate Training: 8 Best Dog Crates for a Daily Routine (2026).
Good picks for this: FDW 30″ Foldable Metal Dog Crate, DUMOS 36 Inch Dog Crate
FAQ
What size crate is right for a medium dog?
Most medium dogs do well in a crate between 30 and 36 inches long. Measure your dog and compare to the crate’s interior dimensions, not just the listed exterior size.
Should I buy a bigger crate for a puppy?
Buying a larger crate can encourage a puppy to use one end as a bathroom. A divider panel lets you start with a smaller space and expand it as your puppy grows.
Is a wire crate safe for a medium dog?
Wire crates are widely used. They offer ventilation and visibility, but dogs that chew or get their legs caught may need a more solid option. Check the wire spacing and latch regularly.
Can a medium dog sleep in a crate overnight?
Many dogs rest comfortably in a crate overnight once they are accustomed to it. Provide a comfortable bed, access to water if appropriate for the dog’s age, and a routine that includes a bathroom break before bed.
How long can a dog stay in a crate?
Adult dogs should not be crated for long stretches without breaks. Puppies need much more frequent bathroom access. Consult your veterinarian or a certified professional trainer for guidance specific to your dog’s age and health.
Do foldable crates hold up to chewing?
Foldable metal crates vary in wire thickness and latch strength. Dogs that chew may damage thin wire or bend parts over time. Supervise new crates and inspect them regularly.
Conclusion
For most owners, the Midwest 30-Inch Single Door iCrate is a dependable starting point for a medium size dog crate, especially for medium breeds in the 21 to 40 pound range. If your dog needs more length, the DUMOS 36 Inch Dog Crate and Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate are worth considering. The FDW 30″ Foldable Metal Dog Crate suits owners who want a crate for training, home and travel. The Amazon Basics option fits a basic budget, and the DUMOS 30 Inch model works well where floor space is tight. Measure your dog first, then match the crate to your space and routine.
Sources
- Product safety information on pet products and consumer recalls (cpsc.gov)
- Guidance on crate training, sizing and everyday dog care (akc.org)
- Veterinary guidance on animal welfare and confinement (avma.org)
About Audrey Hayes
Audrey Hayes is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our dogs & puppies guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
