Top 5 Dog Crates for Home Training and Containment in the US (2026)
“I actually like the locking mechanism on the 2 new ones vs my old one. It is more secure... a crafty pup cannot escape.”
— Brelynn Daniels · Amazon buyer
Bringing home an energetic puppy or managing a restless pet turns crate selection into an essential task. You need a secure enclosure where your companion rests peacefully without escaping while you are away from home. When a kennel fails to provide basic security or wobbles under movement, crate training quickly becomes stressful for both you and your pet.
Finding the ideal enclosure requires balancing portability, construction quality, and convenience. Some wire models feature simple slide-out trays and folding frames that pack down flat for transport or storage. Others include divider panels that let the internal space expand as your young puppy matures, or double-door setups for straightforward daily access.
However, small flaws can cause frustration during assembly and everyday use. Some carriers arrive with shell holes that were punched too small for assembly screws. In other instances, door latches feel stiff at first or divider panels take up too much interior room in compact enclosures.
Before choosing, weigh the door latches, the interior size and the base pan. A properly designed crate delivers dependable containment for your companion while ensuring simple maintenance routines across daily use. By reading what buyers report about latches, trays, size and folding, we help you choose a crate that suits your dog and your home.
How this list was built
The editor chose these dog crates by how much buyers bought, reviewed and rated them, one per brand, then read what their buyers report. What the page says about each one comes from buyers' written reviews, quoted exactly as written; nothing is claimed beyond those reviews and the listings' own specifications.
By the numbers
- Buyers
- 19
- Listings
- 5
- Reviews quoted
- 20
- Picks
- 5
How the shortlist was drawn
- The editor's ruleChosen by how much buyers bought, reviewed and rated it, one per brand.
- Sold new on Amazon USEvery pick was listed new and in stock on Amazon US, with a price, when this guide was built.
What each pick was judged on
- Latching SecurityBuyers evaluate whether latches resist rattling and prevent clever pets from escaping.
- Tray MaintenanceOwners report how smoothly the base pan slides out for cleaning after accidents.
- Portability and StoragePet parents assess how quickly the crate collapses flat for travel and storage.
- Prices are not listed. They move constantly and a stale number helps nobody — the retailer shows what it costs right now.
Here are the 5 crates, presented in the editor's order.
TrueValuePick takes nothing from any brand or retailer for a place on this list: no ads, no paid placement, no commission. How a guide is put together.
Our top 5 picks
No. 1
MidWest Homes for Pets Dog Crate 1530
This model suits you if you own a medium dog and need a sturdy crate that collapses completely for storage or transport. Owners report that the single door offers smooth latching security that keeps pets safe without letting a dog jostle it free.
The heavy wire construction provides ample interior space for your dog to turn around easily. The thick textured plastic bottom liner slides out cleanly, which enables simple cleaning whenever messes happen.
However, one buyer noted that placing the included divider inside a smaller crate took up too much space. This reduced interior room and prevented a puppy from moving around comfortably.
Pros
- Thick textured bottom plastic tray slides out smoothly for quick cleaning routines
- Single door latch operates smoothly and prevents dogs from shaking it free
- Heavy metal wire build offers ample room for medium pets to turn
- Entire crate collapses flat for easy storage and transport
Cons
- Divider panel consumes excessive interior space when installed inside smaller crate sizes
What owners say
val9upj · Amazon buyer
The Midwest 1530 iCrate had everything I wanted in construction and features. It has a single door with a latch that is very easy to open and close. The crate is also completely collapsible, making it easy to store or to transport.
Camila · Amazon buyer
The only thing I personally didn’t like was the divider panel that comes with it. Since I got a smaller size crate, adding the divider inside takes up way too much space and doesn’t leave much room for my puppy to move around comfortably.
Danielle-Cameron · Amazon buyer
The bottom liner is a thick textured plastic that easily slides out for simple cleaning. Door latches easily, but not so easy that a dog could jostle it free.
Sharon Morrell · Amazon buyer
Very easy to put together. This is a nice, heavy crate and it’s easy for my medium size dog to turn around in.
Our conclusion
This enclosure provides a sturdy haven for medium-sized dogs while folding flat for portability and storage. Buyers report a dependable latch, and one finds the liner slides out for simple cleaning. The only notable drawback stems from the divider panel consuming too much interior space when fitted into smaller crate dimensions, making it best suited for dogs that use the full interior width without requiring an extra divider wall.
No. 2
Amazon Basics Dog Crate 9001N-24A
If you need an enclosure for a small dog, this foldable metal crate provides convenient everyday functionality. An owner highlighted that the door locking mechanism feels secure, preventing a crafty pup from escaping. You can also latch and unlatch the door with one hand.
The lightweight wire frame sets up easily right out of the box and folds flat, offering easy transport and compact storage. Maintenance remains straightforward because the slide-out plastic tray makes the base easy to clean.
However, one buyer felt uncertain about the top handle and decided not to carry a puppy by it during transport.
Pros
- Single door latch operates smoothly with one hand for quick daily access
- Secure locking mechanism keeps crafty puppies from breaking out of the cage
- Slide-out base tray makes cleaning up daily messes fast and hassle-free
- Lightweight foldable wire construction moves easily between different rooms in the home
Cons
- Top carrying handle inspires little confidence when moving the crate with a puppy inside
What owners say
Cheryl Parsons · Amazon buyer
Was very easy to put together and is relatively light weight for transport. The door is easy to latch and unlatch with one hand. So EASY to clean with the slide out tray.
Amy · Amazon buyer
It was easy to assemble right out of the box, and I really like that it’s lightweight, foldable, and easy to move around as needed.
Brelynn Daniels · Amazon buyer
I actually like the locking mechanism on the 2 new ones vs my old one. It is more secure... a crafty pup cannot escape.
Our conclusion
This compact kennel offers reliable latching security and straightforward tray maintenance for small breeds. One buyer latches the door with one hand and finds the slide-out tray makes cleaning easy. The primary compromise is the top handle: one buyer won't trust it to carry a puppy.
No. 3
Petmate Dog Crate 21231
This hard-sided kennel suits you if you need a lightweight, stable carrier for small pets. An owner noted the top-loading door opens easily with one hand, allowing you to place your pet inside and lock it quickly before an escape happens.
The front door inserts easily, and the spring-loaded latch holds securely without being difficult to pinch open. In addition, the lightweight body remains very easy for anyone to carry around.
On the downside, one buyer reported that some factory assembly holes were uneven or punched too small. You may need to widen the holes slightly so the screws fit properly during setup.
Pros
- Top loading entrance lets you deposit escape-prone pets quickly using one hand
- Spring-loaded door latches squeeze easily without straining fingers during routine use
- Very lightweight and easy for anyone to carry
Cons
- Factory punch holes may arrive uneven or require widening for screws to fit
What owners say
Jessamynn · Amazon buyer
The front door was easy to insert and the spring loaded opening mechanism on the top and side doors are easy to use - the spring holds tight, but is not difficult to pinch and hold open like some other carriers we've had.
KeepingItSimple · Amazon buyer
I can easily open the top with one hand and, hopefully, drop her in and immediately drop the door down so she can’t escape. From that position I can lock it in place without opening it again.
PA Quilt Lady · Amazon buyer
It has been around 2 months since the carrier arrived and it is holding up fine. It is a small but stable carrier for my parrots. Very lightweight easy for anyone to carry.
Our conclusion
This two-door plastic carrier suits anyone who needs a lightweight, stable setup for small animals. The spring-loaded latches operate smoothly while the top door allows quick one-handed loading to prevent escapes. The main compromise involves manufacturing tolerances, as you might need to widen factory holes yourself before the assembly screws fit correctly.
No. 4
New World Dog Crate B42
This large crate fits energetic, large-breed dogs requiring ample room to stretch out comfortably. An owner highlights that the wire frame remains sturdy even when a rambunctious husky presses firmly against the metal bars.
The spacious interior easily accommodates orthopedic bedding while the pull-out tray simplifies routine cleaning after messy outings. The entire kennel provides complete stability when locked into position.
However, one buyer finds folding this massive frame goes easier with two people, and unfolding it takes a lot of floor space.
Pros
- Sturdy metal wire bars withstand pressure from dramatic and energetic large dogs
- Spacious interior dimensions easily accommodate a large orthopedic dog bed
- Removable bottom tray pulls out smoothly to simplify cleaning after accidents
Cons
- Massive size needs a lot of floor space to unfold, and folding goes easier with two people
What owners say
SailorWoman · Amazon buyer
Since it is very large, it is helpful to have two people to fold it for traveling. It is very easy to assemble, but you do need a lot of floor space when unfolding.
Amazon Customer · Amazon buyer
Well made, easy to assemble and condense for travel, spacious and comfortable for pets, easy to clean, complete stability when locked into its operational position. Durable during transport and for larger breeds.
Amber · Amazon buyer
This can fit his orthopedic bed and has a pull out tray that makes it easy to clean when there is mud or accidents. The kennel itself is sturdy, holding up against the unruly pressure of an husky face smashed into the bars for no specific reason other than being problematic in true dramatic fashion.
Our conclusion
This kennel suits large dogs that need heavy-duty containment and enough floor space for a thick orthopedic bed. The pull-out pan keeps upkeep simple after mud or accidents. Its primary trade-off is sheer bulk, needing plenty of floor space to unfold, and an extra pair of hands helps when folding it for travel.
No. 5
FDW Dog Crate
If you have a growing dog, this double-door crate provides convenient access and flexible interior space. Owners appreciate the included divider panel, which allows you to adjust the living area as your puppy grows over time.
Dual latches on both doors offer secure containment to prevent escapes. In addition, the bottom plastic tray is sturdy, leak-proof, and easy to clean, while the metal frame resists rusting during regular use.
However, one buyer noticed chipped paint in some spots upon arrival. That reviewer also found the door latches somewhat hard to use at first, though expecting them to loosen up over time.
Pros
- Dual latches on both doors prevent energetic puppies from pushing out
- Adjustable divider panel allows the interior floor space to expand as puppies grow
- Sturdy, leak-proof bottom tray is easy to clean
- Easy to set up, fold and transport
Cons
- Protective paint finish may arrive chipped in several spots along the wire
- Door latches feel somewhat stiff to slide open during early daily use
What owners say
Madelyn · Amazon buyer
The double-door design makes access very convenient, and the divider panel is perfect for adjusting the space as your pet grows. It’s extremely easy to set up, fold, and transport. The bottom plastic tray is sturdy, easy to clean, and leak-proof.
Evelynn · Amazon buyer
The paint is chipped in some spots and the latches are a little hard to use at first I’m sure it will get easier as time goes on though.
Melissa L. · Amazon buyer
Overall, the crate is simple but well made. It is durable and has not rusted from use.
Our conclusion
This double-door crate suits growing puppies needing room to grow alongside versatile side and front access points. The dual locking latches keep energetic pets safely contained inside. Its main trade-off centers on cosmetic and hardware quirks, including chipped paint spots on the wire frame and initially stiff door latches that require break-in time during early daily use.
Buying guide
Matching Frame Size and Growth
A crate should provide enough space for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Selecting the correct interior volume prevents your pet from feeling cramped during extended resting periods.
If you bring home a growing puppy, look for models featuring an adjustable divider panel. This accessory lets you modify the living area as your dog gains weight without purchasing multiple kennels over time.
Assessing Latches and Portability
Clever dogs often exploit loose or flimsy door mechanisms. Choose enclosures with secure slide-bolt designs or dual latches that prevent accidental openings when energetic pets push against the wire gate.
Frequent travelers should prioritize collapsible frames that fold flat in seconds. Compact folded dimensions make transport and storage easier.
Daily Cleaning and Maintenance
Accidents and muddy paws happen regularly during early crate training. Enclosures equipped with removable bottom trays make fast cleanups straightforward without requiring you to dismantle the wire structure.
Durable plastic pans slide out horizontally from the base frame for quick scrubbing. A leak-proof tray prevents spills from reaching your home flooring and keeps maintenance simple.
Mistakes buyers keep making
Drawn from what buyers complain about in their reviews.
Buying without measuring adult size
Purchasing a crate sized strictly for puppy proportions forces you to replace the enclosure as your dog grows. Always measure your dog from nose to tail and add extra clearance.
Overcrowding with divider panels
Inserting a thick divider panel into an already compact crate takes up excessive floor space. This prevents a growing puppy from turning around naturally.
Trusting a light carrying handle
One buyer would not carry a puppy by a crate's top handle. Support an occupied crate from below when you move it.
Forcing screws through misaligned holes
One buyer found some assembly holes on a plastic carrier uneven or not punched through, and widened them before the screws would fit. Check each hole before tightening.
Frequently asked questions
How do I choose the correct crate size for my dog?
Measure your dog from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, then from the top of the head to the floor. Add several inches so your pet can stand and turn.
What is the purpose of an internal divider panel?
A divider restricts the interior floor space for a puppy. This helps prevent bathroom accidents in the back of the kennel while allowing the crate to expand as the dog grows.
Can I fold a wire crate flat for travel?
Wire crates with collapsible hinges fold completely flat in seconds. This allows you to pack the kennel horizontally in a vehicle cargo area or store it in a closet.
How do I clean a crate after an accident?
Most wire crates here have a slide-out plastic tray: pull it out and wash it. Buyers of four of these picks say the tray makes cleanup easy.
Why do some crates feature double doors?
Double doors give you front and side access points. This provides greater flexibility when placing the kennel in tight corners, narrow hallways, or against furniture in your home.
Are hard-sided plastic kennels suitable for small pets?
Yes. One buyer finds a plastic carrier small but stable and very easy to carry, and another opens its top door with one hand to lower a pet inside before closing it.
How were these picks chosen?
Chosen by how much buyers bought, reviewed and rated it, one per brand. Every pick was listed new and in stock on Amazon US when the guide was built, and every quote on this page is an excerpt of a buyer's own review of that product, copied word for word. The site tests nothing itself.
Megan Riley
Editor, Pet guides
Megan Riley covers pet gear for TrueValuePick, building each guide from what owners report in public about the feeders, beds and carriers their pets live with.
Compiled this guide from buyer reviews, each one checked against an archived copy of the listing it came from.