Choosing a crate starts with your dog, not the product. How big is your dog now and how big will it get? Does it like enclosed spaces or prefer to see the room? Will the crate stay at home, travel in the car or fly? Does your dog chew? This guide turns those questions into a buying process, compares materials and lists the build-quality checks to make before buying. It is research-based, drawing on RSPCA, Humane World for Animals, ASPCA and IATA guidance; we do not rank brands, and we explain how we research products on How We Review.
Step 1: Measure your dog
Measure length (nose to base of tail), height (ground to top of head or ears) and width. The crate must let your dog stand, turn, lie down and stretch out (RSPCA). Compare with the crate’s internal dimensions, not the outside size. For puppies, buy for adult size with a divider, or plan to upgrade. Details and the IATA formula for air travel are in how to size a dog crate.
Step 2: Decide where it will be used
| Use | Priorities | Usually suitable |
|---|---|---|
| Home den | Comfort, airflow, size, looks | Wire, furniture-style |
| Car travel | Securing in the vehicle, size that supports the dog | Plastic or travel crates |
| Air travel | Meets airline and IATA container rules | Plastic crates that meet the airline’s rules |
| Visits and holidays | Light and foldable | Soft-sided (calm dogs only), folding wire |
See indoor versus travel crates.
Step 3: Match the material to your dog
| Material | Strengths | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Wire | Airflow, visibility, folds flat, dividers | Less enclosed; quality varies |
| Plastic | Den-like, travel-friendly, easy to clean | Warmer, bulky to store |
| Fabric (soft-sided) | Light, portable | Not for chewers or escape attempts |
| Heavy-duty metal | Strong | Heavy; does not address anxiety |
| Wood or furniture-style | Blends with decor | Chewable; less portable |
Full comparisons are in dog crate types compared and material comparisons.
Step 4: Consider temperament
- Likes enclosure: plastic, or wire with a partial cover.
- Likes to watch the room: wire.
- Chews: avoid fabric; use durable materials and chew-resistant bedding.
- Distressed when left alone: the ASPCA warns that for some dogs a crate adds stress and that escape attempts by dogs with separation anxiety can cause self-injury. Talk to your veterinarian and a qualified behaviour professional before relying on a crate.
Step 5: Check build quality
- Smooth edges and no gaps that can trap paws, jaws or tags.
- Secure latches that a dog cannot nose open.
- Sturdy tray that cannot be pulled out and chewed.
- Stable frame that does not wobble or collapse.
- Door large enough for easy entry.
- Ventilation on several sides.
- For air travel: hardware and design that meet your airline’s rules.
Step 6: Plan accessories
Budget for a washable crate mat, a clip-on water bowl (the RSPCA recommends one for longer stays), a safe chew toy and possibly a cover or pen. See crate accessories.
Choosing by dog size
| Dog | Notes |
|---|---|
| Small dogs | Check internal height for ears; small dogs may prefer cosy plastic crates |
| Medium dogs | The widest choice; consider two crates (home and travel) |
| Large and giant dogs | Heavy crates; check door height and floor strength; consider where it fits in your home |
| Growing puppies | Adult-size wire crate with divider, or rent and upgrade |
See crates by dog size.
A worked example
Imagine a 12-week-old mixed-breed puppy expected to grow to about 50 pounds, living in an apartment, with occasional car trips and no planned flights. The adult size points to a large crate; growth points to a wire crate with a divider so the space stays snug during toilet training; apartment life suggests a crate that folds for moving and a location near where the family spends evenings. For car trips, a separate smaller plastic crate secured in the vehicle supports the puppy better than the large home crate, following the RSPCA’s advice not to travel with a puppy in its adult-sized crate. Accessories: durable vet bedding, a clip-on bowl, a couple of chew toys and a pen for days when the puppy will be alone longer than three or four hours.
Questions to ask before you buy
- What are the internal dimensions, and do they fit my dog now and when grown?
- Does it include a divider, tray and two doors if I need them?
- How does it fold or come apart, and how heavy is it?
- Are replacement trays, latches and parts available?
- If I will fly, does it meet my airline’s current container rules?
Comparing value without prices
We do not quote prices because they change often. When comparing, look at what the crate includes (divider, tray, two doors), its expected durability, replacement parts, warranty and whether it will still fit when your puppy is grown. Buying a crate that fits your adult dog and your use the first time usually costs less than replacing it.
After buying
Introduce the crate gradually with treats and meals, following our crate training plan. Remove collars with dangling tags before crating, and check the crate regularly for damage.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need two crates?
Many owners use a wire crate at home and a plastic or travel crate for the car or flights. One crate can serve both if it suits your dog and travel needs.
Can I buy a used crate?
Yes, if it is the right size and in good condition: check for bent wires, sharp edges, broken latches and cracked plastic, and clean it thoroughly before use.
All buying guides are under Buying Guides.
