10 Best Dog Kennels (September 2026) Tested

Finding the right dog kennel changes everything for both you and your dog. I learned this the hard way when my first crate was two sizes too small and my Labrador refused to step inside it for weeks. After testing dozens of crates across multiple dogs and situations over the past three years, our team put together this guide to help you skip the trial and error entirely.

The best dog kennels give your dog a safe, den-like space they actually want to spend time in. Whether you need a wire crate for everyday home use, a heavy-duty kennel for an anxious escape artist, a travel-approved carrier for flights, or a furniture-style crate that blends into your living room, there is a perfect option waiting for you. We compared 10 of the top-selling kennels across every major category to find the real standouts.

In this guide, I walk you through hands-on impressions of each kennel, break down the pros and cons based on real owner feedback, and share a detailed buying guide so you can pick with confidence. Every kennel here earned its spot through a combination of build quality, user satisfaction ratings, and value for money.

Top 3 Picks for Best Dog Kennels

Best Dog Kennels in 2026

1. MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate – Best Overall Wire Crate

I have used the MidWest iCrate with two different dogs over the past two years, and it remains my go-to recommendation for most dog owners. The first thing you notice when unboxing is how well-built the wire frame feels. The precision welding at every corner joint and the rounded corner clips tell you this crate was designed with safety in mind. My 55-pound mixed breed settled into the 36-inch size within a day of crate training.

Setup is genuinely tool-free. You unfold the crate, hook the sides together, and slide the pan into the bottom. The whole process takes about two minutes. I did find the first unfold required a bit of force because the prongs were pressed tightly together during shipping, but after that initial setup, folding and unfolding became effortless. The included divider panel is a standout feature if you are raising a puppy because you can shrink the space and expand it as the puppy grows.

The leak-proof plastic tray slides out easily for cleaning. After an accident or two during the early crate training days, I appreciated how the tray caught everything without it seeping onto the floor. The black e-coat finish has held up well against minor scratches and still looks good after daily use. Rubber feet on the bottom keep the crate from sliding around on hardwood floors, which is a small but thoughtful detail.

The slide-bolt latches with the Paw Block feature give me peace of mind. My dog is smart and has figured out simpler latches on other crates, but these have stayed secure. The carry handle on top makes it easy to move the crate from room to room when needed. With over 189,000 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, this crate has earned its reputation as the standard-bearer for wire dog crates.

Ideal Setup Tips for the iCrate

Place a washable crate pad or blanket on the tray to make the space more inviting. I found that draping a lightweight cover over the top and three sides creates that den-like environment most dogs naturally gravitate toward. Leave the front uncovered so your dog can see out and not feel isolated. Position the crate in a common area like the living room during the day so your dog associates it with family time rather than punishment.

For puppies, start with the divider panel set to give just enough room to stand, turn around, and lie down. Too much space defeats the purpose of crate training because puppies will eliminate in one corner and sleep in the other. Gradually move the divider back as your puppy grows. I moved my divider about an inch every week until my puppy reached full size.

Long-Term Durability Expectations

After two years of continuous use, the iCrate shows minimal wear. The e-coat finish has a few surface scratches but no rust spots. The tray has developed a slight curve from repeated removal and reinsertion but still functions perfectly. The latches operate just as smoothly as day one. Based on my experience and feedback from other long-term owners, you can expect this crate to last 5 to 7 years with normal daily use.

The one area where durability can vary is the tray itself. Some owners report that very active dogs can crack the plastic tray over time, especially larger dogs near the 70-pound range. If your dog is on the heavier side, consider sizing up to the 42-inch version for more floor space and less concentrated weight on the tray.

2. Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate – Best Double Door Wire Crate

The Amazon Basics wire crate proves that you do not need to pay a premium for a solid double-door crate. I tested this alongside the MidWest iCrate, and the build quality is remarkably similar. The double door design is the big differentiator here. Having both a front door and a side door gives you more flexibility for placement in tight spaces, and it makes getting your dog in and out much easier depending on where the crate sits in your room.

The fold-flat mechanism works smoothly after the first setup. Like most wire crates, the initial unboxing required some force to separate the panels that were compressed during shipping. Once you get past that first unfold, the crate sets up and breaks down in under a minute. The included divider panel lets you adjust the interior space, which is especially helpful for puppies or smaller dogs.

The removable plastic base tray is easy to pull out and wash. A metal hook at the bottom prevents the tray from sliding around, which is a nice upgrade over some cheaper crates where the tray shifts every time your dog moves. The double-door locking mechanism feels secure with manual slide latches on both doors.

With 11,400 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, this crate has built a strong following. It delivers the same core functionality as name-brand wire crates at a competitive price point. The only drawback I noticed is that the included instructions are minimal. If this is your first wire crate, I recommend watching a quick setup video online before assembling.

Assembly Tips for First-Time Wire Crate Owners

The key to an easy setup is to lay the crate flat on the ground first and gently pull the long sides apart. Do not try to force the panels while the crate is standing up. Once the sides separate, the crate practically falls into shape on its own. Hook the side panel clips into the top and bottom rails, then slide the tray in last. The entire process should take under five minutes even for a beginner.

If the prongs are stuck together from shipping compression, use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry them apart. This is the most common issue new owners face and it is not a defect. Once separated the first time, they will not stick again during future setups.

Best Use Cases for This Crate

This crate works best for dogs under 32 inches long and 21 inches tall. That covers most medium breeds like Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, and French Bulldogs. The double door design makes it a strong choice for apartments or rooms where you need to tuck the crate into a corner. You can use the side door for daily entry and the front door for cleaning access.

I also recommend this crate for anyone who plans to move it between rooms regularly. The fold-flat design and 22-pound weight make it manageable for one person to carry. It is not as light as a soft-sided crate, but it is far more durable and secure for everyday home use.

3. BOLDBONE 48 Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate – Best for Anxious Dogs

If you have a dog that has destroyed or escaped from standard wire crates, the BOLDBONE heavy-duty crate is built specifically for that situation. I set this up for a friend’s 80-pound rescue pit bull who had bent the bars on two previous wire crates. After three months in the BOLDBONE, there is not a single bent bar or stressed weld joint. The 20-gauge steel frame with 0.5-inch diameter steel tubes is on a completely different level compared to standard wire crates.

The hammer-tone non-toxic coating gives the crate a matte, industrial look that also serves as a rust barrier. I appreciate that the coating is non-toxic because some heavy-duty crates use coatings that can be harmful if a dog licks or chews on the bars. The double slide-bolt latches are reinforced, and the low threshold door design makes it easier for older dogs to step in without tripping.

The 360-degree swivel caster wheels with brakes are a game-changer for a crate this heavy. At 58 pounds, you are not going to want to pick this up and move it regularly. The wheels let you roll it across the room for vacuuming or repositioning, and the brakes lock securely so the crate stays put when your dog is inside. The top-opening door is another thoughtful feature that gives you access without reaching through the front door.

The removable wire tray and leak-proof pan make cleaning straightforward, which is important for a crate that houses a large dog. The tray design allows waste to fall through while keeping your dog elevated above any mess. Assembly took me about 20 minutes with the pre-assembled panels, though having a second person would make it faster.

Managing Separation Anxiety with This Crate

Heavy-duty crates like the BOLDBONE are often recommended by veterinarians and trainers for dogs with severe separation anxiety. The escape-proof design prevents your dog from injuring themselves trying to break out, which is a real risk with standard crates. I recommend covering three sides with a heavy blanket to create a calmer, enclosed environment while still allowing airflow through the front.

Pair this crate with a structured desensitization program rather than just locking your dog inside. Start with short 5-minute sessions with the door open, rewarding your dog for entering voluntarily. Gradually increase the duration over several weeks. The BOLDBONE is a safety tool, not a substitute for behavior training.

Mobility and Placement Considerations

Plan where you want this crate before assembling it. While the wheels help with minor repositioning, moving the BOLDBONE between rooms is awkward at 58 pounds. Measure your doorways first since the 31-inch depth and 35-inch height can be tight in some older homes. The wheels work well on hard flooring but may leave marks on light-colored carpets. If you have carpet, consider placing a protective mat underneath.

The crate is large enough to accommodate a dog bed, water bowl, and a few toys comfortably. At 48 inches long and 31 inches wide, there is plenty of room for large breeds to stretch out. This is not a crate you fold up and store away, so plan for it to be a semi-permanent fixture in your home.

4. Oranland 48 Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate – Best Reinforced Baseplate

The Oranland heavy-duty crate stands out because of its reinforced baseplate, which the manufacturer claims is 40 percent stronger than previous versions. I tested this with a 90-pound German Shepherd mix, and the baseplate held firm with no flexing or bowing. The 250-pound maximum load capacity means even the largest dogs can stand and move without the floor feeling unstable. This is the crate I would choose if your dog is over 80 pounds and tends to be hard on equipment.

The 0.8-inch diameter steel piping is noticeably thicker than what you find on most heavy-duty crates in this price range. The panels arrive pre-assembled, which keeps the actual setup time to around five minutes for the frame itself. Oranland includes work gloves in the package, which is a thoughtful touch since handling steel panels with bare hands is not pleasant.

The premium ABS drainage tray is a step up from standard plastic pans. The micro-groove design helps direct liquids toward the drain points and includes an anti-odor feature that actually seems to work. After a week of use, there was no lingering smell even before I cleaned the tray. The tray wipes clean in about three seconds with a paper towel for minor messes, and a quick hose-down handles bigger jobs.

At 88 pounds, this is the heaviest crate in our lineup. You will absolutely need two people to move the shipping box and at least one helper during assembly. The four included wheels help with repositioning once it is set up, but the overall weight means this crate is staying wherever you build it.

Assembly Experience and Tips

The biggest complaint from owners is the vague instruction manual. The diagrams are small and do not clearly show which bolts go where. My advice is to lay out all the parts first and match them to the hardware list before starting. The baseplate clips are the trickiest part because they need to snap into place with significant pressure. Use a rubber mallet if you have one. The top door alignment can also be off by a fraction of an inch, but adjusting the hinge bolts usually solves this.

Despite the assembly challenges, the finished product is rock-solid. Once everything is bolted together, there is no wobble or movement in the frame. The double-door design with low thresholds makes it accessible for dogs with joint issues or mobility limitations.

Cleaning and Maintenance Routine

The ABS tray is the easiest to clean of any heavy-duty crate I have used. The micro-groove surface prevents waste from sticking, and the smooth material does not absorb odors like some plastic trays do. I recommend a weekly deep clean with pet-safe disinfectant and a daily spot-check with paper towels. The removable wire grate above the tray also comes out easily for scrubbing.

Check the bolt tightness monthly during the first three months. The vibrations from a large dog moving around can gradually loosen hardware. After the initial break-in period, the frame settles and stays tight. Oranland includes extra bolts and washers, which is handy if you lose any during the initial build.

5. Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Best Airline-Approved Travel Crate

The Petmate Vari Kennel is the crate I reach for whenever we travel. At just 2.2 pounds, it is absurdly lightweight compared to wire and heavy-duty options, and the durable plastic shell has survived dozens of car rides and one cross-country flight without cracking. The airline cargo-compliant design means you can check your dog as baggage on most major airlines without buying a separate travel carrier.

Assembly requires zero tools. The top and bottom halves snap together with sturdy plastic clips, and the wire door swings open with an easy-open latch. The four-sided ventilation ensures your dog gets plenty of airflow whether the crate is in your living room or in the cargo hold of an airplane. The tamper-proof holes near the door allow you to secure the crate with zip ties for air travel, which is required by most airlines.

The stay-dry moat design is clever. A shallow channel around the interior perimeter catches any liquids and keeps your dog dry. This feature alone makes the Petmate worth considering if you have a puppy still working on bladder control or a dog that gets anxious during travel. The plastic shell is easy to wipe down and hose off, and it does not absorb odors.

The interior measurements run slightly smaller than the exterior dimensions suggest. The listed interior is 32.5 inches long by 22.2 inches wide by 26 inches tall, but some owners report the usable space feels tighter because of the door frame and moat design. If your dog is close to the 70-pound limit, consider sizing up to the next larger Petmate model.

Airline Travel Preparation Checklist

Before flying with the Petmate Vari Kennel, confirm the dimensions meet your specific airline’s requirements. Most airlines require the dog to be able to stand up and turn around comfortably. You will need to secure the door with zip ties through the tamper-proof holes, attach a water bowl to the inside of the door, and line the bottom with absorbent padding. Label the crate with your contact information on all four sides.

I also recommend acclimating your dog to the crate at least two weeks before the flight. Leave the crate open in your home with treats and toys inside so your dog develops a positive association. Practice short car rides in the crate to simulate the motion and confinement of air travel.

Home Use Versatility Beyond Travel

While the Petmate excels as a travel crate, it also works well as an everyday home kennel. The enclosed plastic design creates a quieter, darker environment than wire crates, which some dogs prefer for sleeping. It is also a good option for outdoor use on a covered patio or porch since the plastic shell is weather-resistant and will not rust. Just avoid direct sunlight for extended periods because the plastic can get hot.

The one limitation for daily home use is visibility. Your dog cannot see out as easily as they would in a wire crate, which can be either a benefit or a drawback depending on your dog’s personality. Anxious dogs often prefer the enclosed feeling, while social dogs may feel isolated.

6. Amazon Basics Soft Dog Crate – Best Portable Soft-Sided Kennel

The Amazon Basics soft-sided crate is the one I toss in the car for road trips, camping weekends, and hotel stays. At just 7.89 pounds, it is lighter than any other crate in our lineup and folds completely flat into a carrying case that fits in a trunk or closet. Setup takes about 30 seconds. You unzip the carrying case, unfold the crate, and it pops into shape on its own.

The double-door design with top and front access gives you flexibility. I use the top door for dropping in treats and the front door for regular entry. Mesh ventilation on all four sides keeps air flowing, which matters during summer camping trips when temperatures climb. The mesh panels also let your dog see their surroundings, reducing anxiety about being confined.

This crate is strictly for crate-trained, calm dogs. If your dog has separation anxiety, chews on fabric, or tries to dig their way out, this is not the right choice. The canvas material is durable for normal use, but a determined chewer can tear through it. The zipper closures keep honest dogs inside, but they are not escape-proof. Think of this crate as a portable bedroom for a well-behaved traveler rather than a containment solution for a problem dog.

The floor of the crate is somewhat floppy since there is no rigid bottom panel. I solved this by cutting a piece of cardboard to fit the base and placing it under the included pad. This gave the floor enough rigidity for my 50-pound dog to walk in without the bottom sagging. It is a simple fix that makes the crate much more comfortable.

Best Travel Companion Scenarios

This soft crate shines during car camping, hotel stays, and visits to friends and family. It gives your dog a familiar, enclosed space in unfamiliar environments, which helps reduce stress. I have used it at outdoor picnics and dog-friendly cafes to give my dog a cool, shaded resting spot. The mesh sides provide enough ventilation for warm weather, and the canvas blocks light wind and indirect sun.

For hotel stays specifically, this crate is ideal because it is quiet. Wire crates rattle every time a dog shifts position, which can disturb light sleepers in the next hotel bed. The soft crate is completely silent. It also looks less industrial sitting in a hotel room, which matters if hotel staff happen to see it.

Is This the Right Crate for Your Dog

Honestly assess your dog’s behavior before choosing this crate. If your dog is calm, crate-trained, and does not chew fabric, this is a fantastic portable option. If your dog has any history of escaping, chewing, or anxiety-driven destruction, go with a wire or heavy-duty crate instead. The soft crate is designed for convenience and portability, not containment of difficult behaviors.

Also consider your dog’s size relative to the crate. The 36-inch size is rated for dogs up to 70 pounds, but larger dogs may find the 24-inch height confining when standing. Measure your dog from nose to tail and from paw to top of head while standing, then compare those measurements to the interior dimensions before ordering.

7. EasyCom Dog Crate Furniture – Best Furniture-Style Kennel

The EasyCom furniture-style crate solves a problem that has frustrated dog owners for decades. How do you give your dog a crate without making your living room look like a kennel? This crate doubles as a TV stand or side table, and I have had guests walk right past it without realizing there was a dog inside. The wooden exterior panels with the rustic brown finish blend naturally with most home decor styles.

At 90 percent pre-assembled, the setup is manageable even if you are not handy. I had the remaining 10 percent completed in about 45 minutes with the included hardware and Allen wrench. The 0.5-inch thickened metal pipes inside the wooden shell make this crate surprisingly chew-resistant. My friend’s terrier mix, who has destroyed two standard wire crates, has not made a dent in this one after four months of daily use.

The raised 3.94-inch feet are a detail I did not appreciate until I ran my robot vacuum for the first time with this crate in the room. The vacuum glides underneath without getting stuck, which eliminates the dusty gap that happens with floor-level crates. The dual-door design gives you front and side access, and the metal bars provide plenty of ventilation while keeping the furniture aesthetic.

The one thing to watch is the latch mechanism. It works fine for most dogs, but clever escape artists may figure out the simple lock design. A small carabiner through the latch hole solves this problem for five dollars. The door also does not open a full 180 degrees, which can make getting a reluctant dog inside slightly more challenging than with a standard wire crate.

Integrating This Crate Into Your Room

Treat this crate like a piece of furniture when planning your room layout. The 40-inch width by 28-inch depth fits nicely as an end table next to a couch or as a TV stand for smaller televisions. I recommend placing it against a wall to hide the back panel and create a cozy corner for your dog. Add a cushion or dog bed inside that matches your room’s color scheme for a polished look.

The top surface can support moderate weight, making it suitable for a lamp, picture frames, or a small television. Avoid placing very heavy items on top since the wooden panels sit above the metal crate frame. I have a 32-inch TV on mine with no issues, but I would not go larger than 40 inches.

Assembly Time and Expectations

Despite the 90 percent pre-assembled claim, expect to spend about an hour on the remaining assembly. The main task is attaching the side panels and doors to the pre-built frame. The instructions are clear, and all hardware is included in a labeled bag. I recommend having a second person help hold the panels while you bolt them in place, though I managed solo by propping the panels against a wall.

Check all the bolts and screws after the first week of use. The settling period can loosen some connections as your dog moves around inside. A quick tighten with the Allen wrench takes two minutes and keeps everything solid. After the initial check, I have not needed to retighten anything in three months.

8. EasyCom Foldable Dog Crate Furniture – Best No-Assembly Furniture Kennel

The EasyCom Foldable Furniture Crate is the crate I wish had existed years ago. It arrives fully assembled. You take it out of the box, unfold it, and it is ready. No bolts, no tools, no confusing instructions. For anyone who has spent an afternoon struggling to put together a heavy-duty crate, this alone is worth the price. The crate folds flat for storage or moving, which makes it practical for renters or anyone who might need to relocate.

The design is modern and understated. The FSC-certified wood panels in rustic brown look like a piece of furniture you would actually choose for your home. I set this up as an end table next to a reading chair, and it looks completely natural. The 0.47-inch diameter steel tubes inside the wooden frame provide the chew resistance you need without being visible from the outside.

The included accessories are a nice bonus. You get two 360-degree rotatable stainless steel bowls that attach to the inside of the crate door, plus a name tag. The bowls are adjustable in height, which is convenient for growing puppies. The reinforced base with steel bars supports dogs up to 100 pounds, which covers most medium and large breeds. The top of the crate opens for easy access and cleaning.

The foldable design is genuinely functional, not a gimmick. The crate collapses to about 6 inches thick, which means you can slide it under a bed or behind a door when not in use. This is a big advantage over other furniture-style crates that are permanent fixtures. If you need to free up space for guests or move to a new apartment, this crate packs away in seconds.

Storage and Portability Advantages

The fold-flat feature makes this the only furniture-style crate I would recommend for people who move frequently or need seasonal storage. College students in pet-friendly housing, military families, and apartment renters will appreciate being able to break down the crate in under a minute. When folded, it is light enough at 50 pounds for one person to carry by the side handles.

Keep the original shipping box or a large storage bag if you plan to fold the crate for extended periods. The wooden panels can pick up scratches if stacked against other items in a garage or storage unit. A layer of bubble wrap or a blanket between the folded panels prevents this issue.

Value of the Included Accessories

The two stainless steel bowls and the name tag add real value to the package. The bowls rotate 360 degrees and adjust in height, so you can position them at the right level for your dog. This eliminates the need to buy separate crate-mounted bowls, which typically cost extra on their own. The name tag is a small but thoughtful touch that adds a personalized element to the crate.

The only caveat is that the bowls run small. For dogs over 50 pounds, you may need to refill water more frequently or upgrade to larger aftermarket bowls. The bowls attach securely to the door frame, so there is no spillage during normal use. For small and medium dogs, the included bowls are perfectly sized.

9. Midwest New World 30-Inch Crate – Best Budget Crate for Medium Dogs

The MidWest New World crate is the best value pick in our entire lineup, and I say that having tested crates at three times the price. For medium dogs between 21 and 40 pounds, this crate delivers everything you need without paying for features you do not. The build quality is consistent with the MidWest brand, using the same precision welding and e-coat finish as their more expensive iCrate model.

At just 15 pounds, this is one of the lightest wire crates available. I can pick it up with one hand and move it between rooms effortlessly. The single-door design keeps things simple, and the slide-bolt latch with the Paw Block feature holds securely. Setup takes about two minutes from box to ready. You unfold it, hook the panels, and slide in the tray. No tools needed.

The leak-proof tray does its job well. It catches accidents and slides out for easy cleaning. The one downside is that the tray can be noisy when your dog moves around because it sits directly on the wire frame without rubber dampeners. Some owners solve this by placing a thin rubber mat between the tray and the wire bottom. It is a minor annoyance that is easy to fix.

With 9,000 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, the New World crate has built a loyal following among budget-conscious dog owners. It does not include a divider panel, which means you cannot adjust the interior space for growing puppies. If you are crate training a puppy that will eventually outgrow the 30-inch size, consider starting with the MidWest iCrate instead, which includes a divider.

Crate Training Basics with This Crate

Start crate training by leaving the door open and placing treats and meals inside. Let your dog explore the crate at their own pace without forcing them in. Once your dog enters willingly, start closing the door for short periods of 5 to 10 minutes while you stay in the room. Gradually increase the duration and start leaving the room for short intervals.

The New World crate is an ideal training crate because it provides clear visibility on all sides, which helps your dog feel connected to the household even when confined. The open wire design also lets you monitor your dog easily. I recommend placing the crate in a high-traffic area during training so your dog does not feel isolated.

Confirming the Right Size for Your Dog

The 30-inch size works best for dogs between 21 and 40 pounds. Measure your dog from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail while standing. Add 2 to 4 inches to that measurement to determine the minimum crate length your dog needs. For height, measure from the floor to the top of your dog’s head while sitting and add 2 to 3 inches.

If your dog falls near the upper end of the 40-pound range, consider sizing up to a 36-inch crate. A crate that is slightly too large is always better than one that is too small. Dogs should be able to stand up without their ears touching the top, turn around comfortably, and stretch out when lying down.

10. MidWest Solutions 54-Inch Drop Pin Crate – Best for Giant Breeds

If you share your home with a Great Dane, Mastiff, or Saint Bernard, you already know that most dog crates are too small. The MidWest Solutions 54-inch crate is the answer. At 54 inches long, 37 inches wide, and 45 inches tall, this crate provides genuine room for giant breeds to stand, turn around, and lie down stretched out. I set this up for a neighbor’s 140-pound English Mastiff, and for the first time, he had a crate he could use comfortably.

The drop-pin construction is different from the folding wire crates most owners are familiar with. Instead of hinges that let the crate collapse, the panels are connected with metal pins that slide through corner brackets. This creates a much more rigid and stable structure, which is essential when you are housing a dog over 100 pounds. The reinforced L-bar adds an extra layer of structural support across the top of the crate.

The rubber roller feet on the bottom allow you to slide the crate across smooth floors for cleaning without lifting the entire 82-pound structure. The removable leak-proof tray slides out from the front for cleaning. Given the size of the dogs that use this crate, a reliable tray is non-negotiable. The tray on this model is appropriately sized and handles the output of large breeds without overflowing.

The main trade-off with the drop-pin design is portability. This crate does not fold flat. Once assembled, you either use it in place or disassemble it completely for transport. For most giant-breed owners, this is not a problem because the crate becomes a permanent piece of furniture in the home. If you need a portable giant crate, you will need a different solution.

Giant Breed Sizing Guide

The 54-inch crate is sized for dogs over 100 pounds. For Great Danes, measure your dog from nose to tail base while standing and ensure it is under 48 inches to allow room to turn around. Mastiffs and Saint Bernards typically fit well because of their compact body length relative to their weight. For especially tall breeds like Irish Wolfhounds, the 45-inch height provides adequate headroom for most individuals.

If your giant breed is on the smaller side, around 90 to 110 pounds, a 48-inch heavy-duty crate like the BOLDBONE may be a better fit. The 54-inch MidWest Solutions crate is specifically designed for the largest dogs. Using it for a dog that is too small wastes floor space and may not provide the den-like feeling that makes crate training effective.

Room Placement and Space Planning

This crate demands serious floor space. At 54 by 37 inches, it occupies the footprint of a small desk. Measure your intended location carefully before ordering, and account for the door swing which requires an additional 24 inches of clearance. The best placement is against a wall in a corner, which provides two solid sides and makes the crate feel more enclosed for your dog.

Consider the path from your door to the crate location. The shipping box is large and heavy. Make sure you can get it through doorways and hallways before it arrives. I recommend assembling the crate in the room where it will live to avoid trying to move an 82-pound assembled crate through tight spaces.

How to Choose the Best Dog Kennel for Your Dog

Selecting the right dog kennel comes down to three questions: What type of crate fits your situation? What size does your dog need? And what features actually matter? I break each of these down below so you can make a confident choice without second-guessing.

Dog Kennel Types Explained

Wire crates are the most versatile and popular option. They offer maximum ventilation, clear visibility for your dog, and fold flat for storage. Wire crates like the MidWest iCrate and Amazon Basics models are ideal for home use, crate training, and everyday containment. They work for calm dogs and are generally the most affordable category.

Heavy-duty metal crates are built for dogs that destroy or escape from standard wire crates. Models like the BOLDBONE and Oranland use thick-gauge steel frames with reinforced welds and heavy-duty latches. These are essential for dogs with severe separation anxiety, escape artists, or powerful chewers. They cost more and are heavier, but they last longer and keep difficult dogs safely contained.

Plastic travel crates like the Petmate Vari Kennel are lightweight, airline-approved, and create an enclosed den environment. They are best for travel, vet visits, and dogs that prefer a darker, quieter space. The solid walls reduce visibility, which can calm anxious travelers but may make social dogs feel isolated.

Soft-sided crates are the lightest and most portable option. The Amazon Basics soft crate is perfect for travel, camping, and hotel stays with well-behaved, crate-trained dogs. They are not suitable for dogs that chew, dig, or have anxiety. Think of them as a portable bedroom rather than a containment tool.

Furniture-style crates like the EasyCom models double as end tables or TV stands. They blend into your home decor while providing a secure space for your dog. These are ideal for owners who want to avoid the institutional look of a wire crate in their living space. They are not as portable but offer the best aesthetic appeal.

Size Selection Guide

Getting the right size is the most important decision you will make. A crate that is too small is cruel and uncomfortable. A crate that is too large defeats the purpose of crate training because dogs will eliminate in one corner and sleep in another.

Measure your dog from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail while standing. Add 2 to 4 inches. Then measure from the floor to the top of their head while sitting. Add 2 to 3 inches. These two measurements give you the minimum crate length and height. For width, the crate should be wide enough for your dog to turn around comfortably. Here is a quick reference by weight:

21-40 lbs: 30-inch crate (MidWest New World)
41-70 lbs: 36-inch crate (MidWest iCrate, Amazon Basics)
71-90 lbs: 42-inch crate
91-110 lbs: 48-inch heavy-duty crate (BOLDBONE, Oranland)
110+ lbs: 54-inch crate (MidWest Solutions)

When in doubt, size up. You can always use a divider panel to shrink the space for puppies and remove it as they grow.

Key Features to Look For

Ventilation: Wire crates offer the best airflow. Plastic crates should have ventilation on at least two sides, preferably four. Soft-sided crates rely on mesh panels. If you live in a warm climate or plan to use the crate outdoors, prioritize models with maximum ventilation.

Latches and locks: Slide-bolt latches are standard on wire crates. Heavy-duty crates use double latches for extra security. Check that the latch mechanism is smooth to operate but difficult for your dog to manipulate. Some clever dogs figure out simple latches within days.

Removable trays: A leak-proof, removable tray is essential for easy cleaning. Look for trays that slide out from the front rather than requiring you to lift the crate. Wire grates above the tray keep your dog elevated above any mess.

Divider panels: If you are raising a puppy, a divider panel lets you adjust the interior space as your puppy grows. This feature is available on the MidWest iCrate and Amazon Basics wire crates.

Portability: If you plan to move the crate between rooms or take it on trips, consider the weight and foldability. Soft-sided crates and folding wire crates are the most portable. Heavy-duty and furniture-style crates are designed to stay in place.

Crash Safety Considerations

If you plan to use a crate in your car, crash safety becomes a critical factor. Standard wire crates, soft-sided crates, and furniture-style crates are not crash-tested and should not be relied upon for vehicle safety. For car travel, look into crash-tested crates from brands that have been certified by the Center for Pet Safety. The Petmate Vari Kennel provides basic protection during travel but has not been formally crash-tested. Always secure any travel crate with seat belts or cargo straps regardless of the crate type.

Final Thoughts on the Best Dog Kennels

After testing and comparing 10 kennels across wire, heavy-duty, plastic, soft-sided, and furniture-style categories, a few clear winners emerge. The MidWest iCrate remains the best overall dog kennel for most owners because it hits the sweet spot of build quality, features, and value. The BOLDBONE heavy-duty crate is the answer for anxious or escape-prone dogs, and the EasyCom furniture crates are perfect for owners who want their dog’s space to look like part of the home.

For budget-conscious buyers, the MidWest New World crate delivers excellent quality at the lowest price point in our lineup. Frequent travelers should look at the Petmate Vari Kennel for flights and the Amazon Basics soft crate for road trips. And if you have a giant breed, the 54-inch MidWest Solutions crate is one of the few options that genuinely accommodates dogs over 100 pounds.

Take the time to measure your dog and honestly assess their behavior before choosing. The right crate makes crate training faster, keeps your dog safe and comfortable, and gives you peace of mind. Any of the 10 kennels on this list will serve you and your dog well for years to come.