By Audrey HayesUpdated November 2026
Learning how to crate train a dog starts with choosing a crate that fits your dog’s size, your home, and your training plan. A crate that is too small feels cramped, one that is too large can invite a puppy to use one corner as a bathroom, and one with a flimsy latch can turn every training session into a frustrating escape attempt. The five crates below were selected by comparing manufacturer specifications, brand reputation, and the patterns owners commonly describe in their feedback, with attention to door layout, divider options, tray design, portability, and sizing range. None of these picks were tested by us; the comparisons reflect published specifications and general owner reports.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallHeavy Duty, Portable Wire Kennel with Double Door, Divider & Leak-ProoView on Amazon - 2
TOP CHOICEBest for training guidanceCrate Training Puppies: Learn How to Crate Train Your Dog the Fast andView on Amazon - 3
TOP CHOICEBest for small kitchensAmazon Basics Portable, Easy to Assemble, Foldable Metal Wire Dog CratView on Amazon - 4
Best for small breedsMidwest 24-Inch Single Door iCrate Folding Dog CrateView on Amazon - 5
Best budget pickSingle Door Metal Wire, Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Portable Indoor OView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy Duty, Portable Wire Kennel with Double Door, Divider & Leak-Proof Tray | Dogs that need room to grow and flexible setup | Double door with removable divider |
| Crate Training Puppies: Learn How to Crate Train Your Dog the Fast and Easy Way | Owners who want a structured training guide | Step-based crate training method |
| Amazon Basics Portable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate | Small apartments and tight spaces | Compact 36-inch footprint |
| Midwest 24-Inch Single Door iCrate Folding Dog Crate | Small breeds, 12 to 20 pounds | Divider panel and secure latch |
| DUMOS 24 Inch Dog Crate, Single Door Metal Wire | Puppies and small dogs on a budget | Plastic leak-proof pan tray |
Heavy Duty, Portable Wire Kennel with Double Door, Divider & Leak-Proof Tray | For Training, Home, Travel Indoor/Outdoor Use FDW | 48″ Foldable Metal Dog Crate | Dark Black | Cage for XL Dogs
Heavy Duty, Portable Wire Kennel with Double Door, Divider & Leak-Proof Tray | For Training, Home, Travel Indoor/Outdoor Use FDW | 48" Foldable Metal Dog Crate | Dark Black | Cage for XL Dogs
Best for: Large or growing dogs that need a crate with room to stand, turn, and lie down
This is the most versatile option here. The double door lets you train from either side, and the divider lets you size the space to a puppy now and expand it as the dog grows, which matters because a crate that is too big during potty training can undermine the process.
Key specs
- 48-inch foldable wire construction
- Double door with removable divider panel
- Leak-proof tray
- Designed for indoor and outdoor use
Pros
- Divider allows the space to grow with the puppy
- Two doors make it easy to position the crate in a room
- Sturdy wire frame suited to larger dogs
Cons
- Large footprint may not suit small apartments
- Heavier to move than soft-sided options
Bottom line: A strong choice for owners with a medium or large dog who want one crate that covers puppyhood through adulthood.
Crate Training Puppies: Learn How to Crate Train Your Dog the Fast and Easy Way (Dog Training)
Crate Training Puppies: Learn How to Crate Train Your Dog the Fast and Easy Way (Dog Training)
Best for: First-time owners who want a structured method alongside their crate
This is a training guide rather than a physical crate. It suits owners who prefer a written plan they can follow step by step, and it pairs well with any crate on this list.
Key specs
- Book format focused on crate training puppies
- Step-by-step method for introducing the crate
Pros
- Gives a clear sequence to follow
- Useful for owners who learn better from written plans
- Works with any crate you already own
Cons
- Does not replace hands-on guidance from a trainer
- Methods still need to be adjusted to your dog’s temperament
Bottom line: Best as a companion to a crate rather than a standalone purchase for owners who want a reference during training.
Amazon Basics Portable, Easy to Assemble, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Double Door, Divider Panel, Handle, 36″ x 23″ x 25″, Black
Amazon Basics Portable, Easy to Assemble, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Double Door, Divider Panel, Handle, 36" x 23" x 25", Black
Best for: Apartments and small homes where floor space is limited
The 36-inch footprint fits medium dogs without taking over a room. The divider and removable tray make it practical for everyday cleaning.
Key specs
- 36 x 23 x 25 inches
- Double door with divider panel
- Removable tray and carry handle
Pros
- Compact dimensions for smaller spaces
- Removable tray simplifies cleanup
- Folds for storage or travel
Cons
- May be too small for very large dogs
- Wire construction can be noisy if a dog rattles the door
Bottom line: A practical choice for owners of medium dogs in apartments who want a no-frills, well-sized crate.
Midwest 24-Inch Single Door iCrate Folding Dog Crate
Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latch, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble Midwest 24-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Small Breeds, 12-20 lbs
Best for: Small breeds weighing roughly 12 to 20 pounds
This crate is sized for small dogs and includes a divider and secure latch, which owners often mention as useful for keeping a small puppy contained.
Key specs
- 24-inch single door
- Folding wire design
- Divider panel and leak-proof tray
Pros
- Right size for small breeds
- Secure latch is a common owner highlight
- Easy to assemble and fold
Cons
- Too small for dogs that will outgrow it quickly
- Single door limits placement options
Bottom line: Suited to small-breed owners who want a sturdy, purpose-sized crate for home training.
DUMOS 24 Inch Dog Crate, Single Door Metal Wire, Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Portable Indoor Outdoor Training Travel
Single Door Metal Wire, Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Portable Indoor Outdoor Training Travel DUMOS 24 Inch Dog Crate, Foldable Puppy Small Dog Cage Pet Kennel
Best for: Puppies and small dogs when the budget is the main concern
This is a budget-minded wire crate with a plastic pan tray. It covers the basics of indoor and outdoor training and travel use.
Key specs
- 24-inch single door
- Metal wire frame
- Plastic leak-proof pan tray
- Foldable and portable
Pros
- Budget-friendly entry point
- Plastic tray is easy to rinse
- Portable enough for short trips
Cons
- Single door and fixed size limit flexibility
- Build quality may not match premium wire crates
Bottom line: A reasonable starter crate for small dogs, especially if you plan to upgrade as your dog grows.
Buying Guide
Size and fit
The crate should let your adult dog stand without touching the top, turn around, and lie down fully stretched. For puppies, many owners use a divider to limit space until the dog is housetrained. Measure your dog from nose to base of tail and from floor to the top of the head or ears while standing. For guidance on sizing for adult dogs, see Sizing a Crate for an Adult Dog.
Good picks for this: Heavy Duty, Portable Wire Kennel with Double Door, Divider & Leak-Proof Tray; Amazon Basics Portable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate
Door configuration
Single-door crates work well when the crate is placed against a wall. Double-door crates let you open the crate from either side, which helps when you need to reposition it or let a dog out from a different direction. Check that latches are secure and cannot be nudged open by a determined puppy.
Good picks for this: Heavy Duty, Portable Wire Kennel with Double Door, Divider & Leak-Proof Tray; Midwest 24-Inch Single Door iCrate Folding Dog Crate
Divider panels
A divider lets you limit the interior space while your puppy is small or still learning bladder control. Many owners find that a crate with too much space encourages accidents, so a divider that you can adjust over several months is a practical feature. Check that the divider attaches firmly and cannot be pushed through.
Good picks for this: Heavy Duty, Portable Wire Kennel with Double Door, Divider & Leak-Proof Tray; Amazon Basics Portable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate
Tray design
A removable, leak-proof tray makes cleanup faster and helps protect the floor. Plastic trays are generally easy to rinse, while metal trays may last longer with heavy use. Look for a tray that slides out without lifting the whole crate.
Good picks for this: DUMOS 24 Inch Dog Crate, Single Door Metal Wire; Heavy Duty, Portable Wire Kennel with Double Door, Divider & Leak-Proof Tray
Portability and storage
If you travel or need to store the crate, check how it folds and how much it weighs when folded. Foldable wire crates are common, but the folded size and the weight of the frame vary between models. A carry handle is useful for moving the crate between rooms or into a car.
Good picks for this: Amazon Basics Portable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate; Midwest 24-Inch Single Door iCrate Folding Dog Crate
Durability and build
Dogs that chew, dig, or rattle the door put stress on hinges, welds, and latches. Check the gauge and finish of the wire and whether the door and frame have reinforced joints. Owners of strong or anxious dogs often report that a heavier frame holds up better over time.
Good picks for this: Heavy Duty, Portable Wire Kennel with Double Door, Divider & Leak-Proof Tray; Midwest 24-Inch Single Door iCrate Folding Dog Crate
Use case and training plan
A crate used only at night needs different features from one used for daytime alone time or travel. Decide where the crate will live and how long your dog will spend inside. A training guide can help you structure the process; see How to Crate Train a Dog: A Humane Step-by-Step Plan for a sequence you can follow, and Schedule for Crate Training: A Step-by-Step Daily Plan for Puppies and Dogs for timing.
Good picks for this: Crate Training Puppies: Learn How to Crate Train Your Dog the Fast and Easy Way; DUMOS 24 Inch Dog Crate, Single Door Metal Wire
FAQ
How long does it take to crate train a dog?
Timelines vary by dog and age. Many puppies take a few weeks to become comfortable in a crate, while adult dogs with prior negative experiences may need longer. Progress usually comes from short, positive sessions rather than long confinement.
What size crate should I buy for a puppy?
Choose a crate that fits the adult size of your dog, then use a divider to shrink the space while the puppy is young. A crate that is too large can make potty training harder, because the puppy may eliminate in one corner and sleep in another.
Should I put a bed in the crate?
Many owners use a washable bed or blanket once the dog has settled in and is not chewing bedding. Start with a simple, easy-to-clean option and remove anything the dog destroys or swallows.
Is a wire crate or a soft-sided crate better?
Wire crates offer visibility and airflow and are common for home training. Soft-sided crates are lighter and suit travel, but they are less durable for dogs that chew or scratch. The right choice depends on how you plan to use the crate.
How long can a dog stay in a crate?
Puppies and adult dogs need regular bathroom breaks and social time. Crate time should be limited to what your dog can reasonably hold, and dogs should never be left confined for long stretches without a plan. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on your dog’s age and health.
Can crate training help with separation anxiety?
Crates can help some dogs feel secure, but they are not a treatment for separation anxiety. If your dog panics, injures itself, or destroys the crate when left alone, consult a veterinarian or a certified behavior professional before continuing.
Do I need a tray in a dog crate?
A removable tray makes cleanup easier and protects the floor from spills or accidents. Choose a tray that is leak-proof and easy to rinse, and check it regularly for cracks or wear.
Conclusion
For most owners, the Heavy Duty, Portable Wire Kennel with Double Door, Divider & Leak-Proof Tray offers the most flexibility because the divider and double door can adapt as a puppy grows. Owners with small apartments may prefer the Amazon Basics Portable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate for its compact footprint, while small-breed owners may find the Midwest 24-Inch Single Door iCrate better sized. The DUMOS 24 Inch Dog Crate is a reasonable budget pick for small dogs, and the Crate Training Puppies guide is worth reading alongside any crate you choose. Whatever you pick, match the size to your dog, use a divider during potty training, and introduce the crate gradually.
Sources
- Breed size guides and general information on crate use and dog care (akc.org)
- Position statements and guidance on animal welfare and responsible confinement (avma.org)
- Consumer safety information on pet products and recall notices (cpsc.gov)
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.
