What Is The Best Crate For Puppies? 9 Effective Options

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

A crate for puppies is a supply you won’t want to forget on your new dog checklist. All dogs can benefit from crates even if they’re trusted to roam free because they provide a safe place to retreat. Plus, it offers a confined space to put dogs in when needed, such as during travel or when people enter the house.

For puppies, crates are especially useful because they can help with potty training and setting up a consistent routine. However, to do so, you need to be patient and reward your puppy when they voluntarily go in the crate. Never use the crate as a punishment because it will make your pup more resistant to going inside.

To help you find a crate for your furry friend, we’ve compiled a list of the best training crates for puppies so you can set your new family member up for success.

Buyer’s Guide: Crate for Puppies

When choosing a training crate for puppies, consider the following features.

Type

Most dog parents go with traditional wired crates, but there are other types out there. For example, airline crates and soft-sided crates are often better if you travel with your dog often. Also, if your puppy is likely to be messy, look for a crate with a removable bottom so you can clean it easier.

Size

Of course, the size matters a lot when choosing a crate. Make sure the crate is big enough for your dog to stand up and turn around but not so big that they can use one corner as a bathroom. If your puppy still has lots of growing to do, buy a crate that’s similar to their expected full-grown size and use a divider to adjust the size as they grow.

Material

The material of the crate should be durable, especially if you have a puppy who loves to chew. If you’re unsure if the crate is strong enough to contain your pup, look at the reviews.

Doors

Having multiple doors isn’t necessary, but it can make it easier to get your puppy into the crate. Plus, many puppies will feel more comfortable in a confined space if it has multiple entry and exit points. If you don’t have a lot of space in your home, you might want to look for sliding doors or zippered doors because they won’t take up space when opened like a swinging door will.

Safety

The crate should be safe for everyone in your home, especially your puppy. Make sure there are no sharp edges inside or outside the crate. If the crate breaks to reveal a sharp piece, you may want to replace the crate out of caution.

Appearance

Finally, the aesthetic of the crate may matter to you. Since your puppy’s crate will likely be sitting out all the time, it should look nice next to your other furniture items. If you don’t like the look of wire crates, consider one that’s wooden and looks like an end table.

Best Crate Options for Puppies

The MidWest LifeStages Double Door Collapsible Wire Crate is a classic crate design that works for puppies of all ages and breeds. It comes in five sizes and it has two doors to make it easier to get your dog in and out. Both doors have two latches for security and the bottom tray is removable for easy cleaning. The bottom has rubber feet to prevent scratches and sliding while the corners are rounded to make sure no one gets hurt. Plus, the collapsible design makes it easy to store and transport when needed. For growing puppies, you can purchase a divider to adjust the crate size for every age.

The Frisco Fold & Carry Single Door Wire Dog Crate is another practical, standard design. You can choose between a single or double door, both of which have two secure latches on the doors. The crate comes in seven sizes to fit every puppy from the tiniest Yorkie to the biggest Mastiff. For easy transport, the crate has one or two handles on top, depending on the size. It also collapses to make it easy to store in narrow spaces. Plus, the plastic pan on the bottom of the crate can slide out to make it easier to clean up after a messy puppy. A divider wall is included so you can use it for small puppies without buying extra hardware.

The Diggs Revol Double Door Collapsible Crate is a unique design that’s easy to set up with no assembly. It’s collapsible, making it convenient to transport, and it can be folded up again within seconds. This crate boasts durable, high-quality materials that resist common issues like chewing or paw pinching. Plus, it has rounded corners to prevent injuries in both humans and pets, making it a safe option for your puppy whether they’re inside or outside the crate. Its double-door setup offers flexibility in placement and access, ensuring ease of use in various spaces. This crate has three color options and two sizes, but it isn’t ideal for large breeds.

The EliteField 3-Door Dog Crate is a soft-sided option, making it cozier for travel and transport. It’s made with lightweight, durable steel tubing and covered with fabric that comes in a variety of color options. Then, it also has mesh windows to improve breathability and visibility. Inside, there’s a fleece bed for added comfort, reducing the stress of puppies. While it can be used at home, it’s also a great option for road trips and vet visits because it has a carrying handle and a zippered pocket to store pet supplies. Plus, the three entry points make it easy to get your dog in and out. It comes in five sizes so dogs of all breeds can enjoy this unique crate design.

The AmazonBasics Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate is a standard crate constructed with sturdy metal wire. Its design makes it easy for dogs to see their surroundings and easy for you to see your dog inside the crate. It comes with either one or two doors and can fold down for easy storage. There’s also a removable plastic pan in the bottom of the crate to make it easy to clean up after your dog. This is a great option for puppies because it comes with a divider so you can adjust the size as your furry friend grows. Plus, there are six crate sizes available, so choose one that will fit your pup’s expected full-grown size.

If you plan to fly with your puppy, the Petmate Sky Dog Kennel is ideal for traveling with pets in the cargo. However, if you have a smaller dog, you can bring them into the cabin with an airline-approved carrier. Built to meet airline specifications, this kennel is designed with robust, durable materials that offer both strength and ventilation, ensuring pets remain secure and comfortable during their journeys. It has a durable wire door and windows so your dog can see out without being able to escape. Plus, it’s made from recycled materials so pet parents can feel good about their purchase. It comes in two sizes: small or giant.

Crates can sometimes be an eyesore in an otherwise stylish room. So, the Causal Home Wooden Pet Crate is designed to look and act as an end table while also providing a safe space for your dog. It’s crafted from solid wood that comes in several colors so you can choose a design that fits your decorations best. The slatted design ensures optimal ventilation while allowing pets to have a clear line of sight, reducing feelings of isolation. Plus, its sturdy tabletop surface also provides space for homeowners to place decorative items, lamps, or drinks, making it an ideal addition to living rooms or bedrooms. It’s available in five different sizes, but if your puppy loves to chew when left alone, this might not be the right option for you.

Since many puppies like to chew on their crates, the SmithBuilt Heavy-Duty Crate is a durable option that can hold up to destructive pups. It’s constructed with premium-grade steel, and its multi-layer, hammer-tone finish enhances its resistance to rust and corrosion. Safety is paramount in its design, evident in the smoothly rounded corners, which reduce the potential for injury. The crate’s bottom pan is both removable and easy to clean, ensuring a hygienic space for your pet. Plus, its lockable wheels make it easy to move the crate from one room to another. It comes in three sizes and either silver or black.

The Lucky Dog Sliding Double Door Wire Dog Crate is a unique option because its doors slide rather than swing open. Thus, the door won’t take up any extra space when the crate is open. Built with robust wire construction, it provides a sturdy and secure environment for dogs, ensuring they feel safe while also benefiting from ample ventilation. With its removable tray, maintenance and cleaning are hassle-free, allowing pet parents to ensure their puppy’s environment stays clean. It comes in six sizes, so all breeds should be able to find one that fits them comfortably.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Do I Need a Crate for My Puppy?

A crate provides a safe and secure environment for your puppy, mimicking the den-like atmosphere that dogs instinctively seek. It aids in-house training by aligning with a dog’s natural aversion to soiling their sleeping area. Additionally, a crate offers a familiar space for your puppy, reducing anxiety and ensuring their safety, especially during travel or when unsupervised.

How Do You Crate Train a Puppy?

Begin by introducing the puppy to the crate with positive reinforcement, placing treats and toys inside to encourage voluntary entry. Gradually increase the time the puppy spends in the crate, starting with short intervals and extending them as the puppy becomes more comfortable. Always ensure the crating experience is positive, avoiding its use as punishment.

Why is My Puppy Screaming in Their Crate for Hours?

Your puppy might be screaming in the crate due to separation anxiety, discomfort, or unmet needs like hunger or the urge to urinate. Puppies are also inherently social and may vocalize when isolated, especially if they’re not yet accustomed to the crate. Proper crate training, consistency, and addressing the puppy’s basic needs can help alleviate prolonged distress.

What Size Crate Do Puppies Need?

The size of the crate for puppies should be large enough for them to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. However, it shouldn’t be so spacious that they can soil one end and sleep on the other. Many crates come with dividers, allowing the internal space to be adjusted as the puppy grows, ensuring a suitable fit throughout their development.

How Long Can a Puppy Stay in a Crate?

A general rule is that a puppy can remain in a crate for an hour for each month of their age plus one. For example, a 3-month-old puppy shouldn’t be crated for more than 4 hours at a time, excluding nighttime. Prolonged confinement can lead to anxiety and is not recommended.

Should My Puppy Sleep in a Crate a Night?

While a puppy doesn’t need to sleep in a crate at night, many trainers recommend it. Having your puppy sleep in a crate at night can aid in house training and establish a consistent routine. The crate provides a safe, den-like environment for the puppy, reducing the risk of accidents or unwanted behavior.

Can I Use the Crate as a Punishment?

No, a dog crate should never be used as a punishment. Your puppy should see the crate as a safe space, so if they’re put in it when they’re in trouble, they’ll relate it to negative things, making them less willing to go in it.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best crate for a puppy can be tricky. There are so many different crate types, so you need to find one that’s durable while also keeping your pup comfortable. Any of the crates in this article could be a good choice for your furry friend as long as you also use proper training. Remember, you should teach your dog that the crate is a safe space for them, not a punishment.

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.