9 Best Dog Crates for 2026

Think about how much effort you put into finding and creating your ideal home. Not only does the home’s design style and functionality come into consideration, but how conveniently it will mesh with your lifestyle plays a big role, too. While many might consider these people problems, dog parents know that the same careful thought should also be applied to crates.

After all, a crate is your pup’s special space — or, at least, it can be with dedicated training and a well-designed silhouette. Today, we’re here to help you with the latter. Ahead, find the nine best dog crates of 2026, including hard-sided and soft-sided silhouettes, eternally upright and collapsible designs.

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Our top dog crate picks

We’ve searched everywhere for the best dog crates — read on to see which options are the best for your pup.

• Best overall: Diggs Revol Collapsible Dog Crate 

• Best looking: Diggs Evolv Dog Crate

• Best furniture-style: Frisco Double Door Furniture-Style Dog Crate 

• Best basic: MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate

• Best dual-entry wire: MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate

• Best soft-sided crate: Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Travel Crate

• Best for small dogs: Amazon Basics 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Travel Carrier

• Best heavy duty: Impact Collapsible Dog Crate

• Best crash-tested travel: Gunner G1 Kennel

How to choose the dog crate that is right for you

What size of dog crate should I purchase?

Dog crates should be large enough for your dog to comfortably walk in, turn around, and lie down. While some crates allow for upright sitting, that is not always the case, especially when it comes to portable travel dog crates.

What safety features should I look for?

The safest dog crates are well-ventilated and made of durable, chew-proof materials like metal and heavy-duty plastic. They feature tamper-proof locks to prevent escapes, too.

What is the best type of dog crate?

Dog crates exist in various forms, including wire and plastic crates, collapsible crates, carrier crates, and crates that double as furniture. The one you choose will depend on your lifestyle and needs.

How expensive are dog crates?

Dog crates can cost as little as $50 and as much as $800. While there’s something to be said about getting what you pay for, ultra-high investments are only worthwhile if your lifestyle requires the standout features of the design. In other words, don’t splurge if you don’t need to.

Our top Kinship-reviewed picks for dog crates

Our editors (and their pets) picked out these products. They’re always in stock at the time we publish, but there’s a chance they’ll sell out. If you do buy through our links, we may earn a commission.

Best overall

Diggs Revol Collapsible Dog Crate

$799

The Diggs Revol Dog Crate might be one of the newest, most modern designs on the market, but in the eight years since its Kickstarter debut, it’s established itself as the crème de la crème of dog crates. In addition to being arguably the best-looking dog crate on the market, with its bright white and brushed-silver silhouette, it features smooth edges and rounded corners, a traditional front door with an escape-proof double-latch handle, a unique garage-style side door, and a top hinged panel for easy treat dispensing. What’s more, it’s collapsible and has built-in wheels for extra-easy transport. This dog crate is so exceptionally well-made, it’s literally manufactured in the same factories as some of the most reputable, high-end baby gear on the market. Admittedly, it has a price tag to match, but it’s one that thousands of shoppers have been more than willing to spring for and stand by once experiencing its elevated design firsthand.

$799 at Chewy

Pros

• Sleek wire and plastic design.

• Traditional hinged front door; garage-style side door.

• Collapsible design folds flat.

• Removable leak-proof tray.

• No assembly required.

Cons 

• Expensive.

Overall review

While this dog crate runs pricey, reviewers say that its sleek, elegant wire design and smartly-placed side door makes it a worthwhile purchase. And about that side door: One reviewer notes that “the design seems well worth it — especially because it has a garage-style side door, so you can style it more than one way in your space.”

Kinship rating (out of 5 ⭐)

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Best looking

Diggs Evolv Dog Crate

$300

After the success of the Revol Dog Crate, Diggs set out to launch an even sleeker, slimmer design in 2023. The Diggs Evolv Dog Crate is the brand’s take on a traditional, paneled wire crate, but boy, is it so much better. From its fashion-forward, silver-and-white frame and spacious diamond-shaped wire panels to its smooth edges and double dual-latch, tamper-proof doors, the Diggs Evolv Dog Crate is a sight to behold and a safe space where your dog will instantly feel at home. Another highlight of the crate is that the top can be left off so it transforms into a playpen. Just keep in mind that, generally speaking, crates shouldn’t be too spacious; that might interfere with successful potty training. If you’re specifically looking for a high-end dog play pen, however, simply consider sizing up from your pup’s typical crate size.

$300 at PetSmart

Pros

• Slim, sleek design.

• Hinged front and side doors.

• Removable top for playpen use.

• Comes with a puppy divider.

• Disassembles when not in use.

Cons

• While the crate comes apart when not in use, the parts don’t all clip together, which makes storage not as streamlined.

Overall review

Multiple reviewers note that this crate’s slim, sleek design make it an attractive addition to any room, with one shopper in particular remarking on the white color looking “a lot less harsh than black wire.” The top can also be removed to turn this crate into more of a playpen, but be forewarned: storage for this crate when disassembled can be unwieldy.

Kinship rating (out of 5 ⭐)

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Best furniture-style

Frisco Double Door Furniture-Style Dog Crate

$197

Another great-looking dog crate is the Frisco Double Door Furniture-Style Dog Crate. Designed to look like a side table, the crate marries function with form, and works especially well in small spaces and in homes where classic black wire crates just won’t cut it aesthetically. Remarkably, this crate can support up to 150 pounds on top, so you can display lamps, trays, books, what have you. Just keep in mind that if you plan to leave your pup crated and unattended, you’ll want to ensure no cords are within reach in order to prevent accidents and injuries.

$197 at Chewy

Pros

• Coated metal and stained wood design.

• Doubles as a side table with a 150-pound shelf capacity.

• Dual-latch front and side doors.

• Sold in brown and black.

• Easy-to-remove pan.

Cons 

• Assembly required.

• Some shoppers report that the wood pieces come chipped.

Overall review

Shoppers love that this dog crate is so easy to clean and are also big fans of the simple and straightforward assembly. (“Fits in like a piece of furniture,” writes one). If you’re looking for a crate that you won’t have to assemble, this might not be the best choice for you, but it’s an excellent pick if you’re OK with a little elbow grease.

Kinship rating (out of 5 ⭐)

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Best basic

MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate

$69

As much as we love how far the dog crate industry has come aesthetically and functionally, there’s no denying that the MidWest Homes iCrate remains a top pick among vets, rescues, and trainers, thanks to its affordable price and easy-to-clean design. Created with two slide-bolt door latches, this crate is thought to be very secure. Let it be known, though, that some pups have managed to teach themselves how to tamper with the locks.

$69 at Amazon

Pros

• Ventilated wire design.

• Single double-latch door.

• Designed with rounded interior edges.

• Removable leak-proof plastic pan.

• Folds flat.

Cons

• Some shoppers report that the wires are rough and cause scratches and cuts during escape attempts.

Overall review

If you have a dog who chews and claws at everything, you’re in luck: Shoppers report that this crate can withstand even the strongest dog jaws. Reviewers also noted this crate’s sturdily-built and leak-proof plastic pan, and its double-latch door.

Kinship rating (out of 5 ⭐)

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Best dual-entry wire

MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate

$76

$74

If you don’t want to be locked into one option for crate positioning in your space, the MidWest Homes for Pets Double Door iCrate is a cult-favorite choice. It features front and side doors, both with the brand’s signature double slide-bolt latches. Overall, this crate is spacious and well-lit. If your dog prefers a darker, more den-like crate, there’s always the option to buy a coordinating cover, which not only boosts your pup’s rest but the overall aesthetic of the crate, too.

$74 at Chewy

Pros

• Ventilated wire design.

• Two double-latch doors.

• Designed with rounded interior edges.

• Removable leak-proof plastic pan.

• Folds flat.

Cons

• Some shoppers report that the latches don’t always align well.

• Some shoppers report that sneaky pups can outsmart the latches.

Overall review

Several reviewers noted that this dog crate has two doors, a unique feature that makes it easier to set up in multiple different ways throughout multiple different rooms. If you’re looking for a bigger crate for your dog, this is a great option.

Kinship rating (out of 5 ⭐)

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Best soft-sided

Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Travel Crate

$48

The Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Travel Crate is another great option for a den-like space. In addition to its more shaded design, this crate is soft-sided, collapsible, and very easy to transport. The only question? Is your dog a chewer and/or an escape artist? If so, this crate may not be a great choice for them, as the fabric sides can be chomped through and zippers can be torn away.

$48 at Amazon

Pros

• Front and top double-zipper doors.

• Well-ventilated fabric and mesh design.

• A bit darker inside for a more den-like retreat.

• Durable PVC frame ensures the crate maintains its shape.

• Lightweight.

• Collapsible design folds flat.

Cons

• Some shoppers report that it’s not suitable for heavy chewers.

Overall review

Reviewers note that this crate has a “really solid, nice quality,” but that the softness of the fabric means that it might not be the best fit for heavy chewers.

Kinship rating (out of 5 ⭐)

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Best for small dogs

Amazon Basics 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Travel Carrier

$41

The Amazon Basics 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Travel Carrier is your traditional pet carrier. It’s a particularly great option for pet parents who have trouble getting their small pups to the vet. With a top-load door, you can easily lower your pet inside. Additionally, this door makes it easier to toss treats to them while inside.

$41 at Amazon

Pros

• Traditional hard-sided kennel. 

• Enclosed, den-like feel.

• Ventilated wire door and plastic side panels.

• Tamper-proof dual-squeeze front door lock.

• Top hinge door for easy pet placement and treat-assisted training.

• Easy to clean.

Cons

• Only suitable for small dogs up to 20 pounds.

• Some shoppers report that the top door feels flimsy.

• Deconstructable, but doesn’t fold flat.

Overall review

Shoppers love how durable this classic pet crate is and how soothing its enclosed space can feel for dogs (puppies especially). It’s excellent for travel, too.

Kinship rating (out of 5 ⭐)

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Best heavy duty

Impact Collapsible Dog Crate

$1070

$856

The Impact Collapsible Dog Crate is a dream for medium and large dogs, with six sizes accommodating everyone from Beagles to Great Danes. The military-grade aluminum crates are highly regarded for their reinforced corners and top handle, as well as for being super easy to set up and break down. Additionally, they’ve proven to hold up incredibly well in accidents, making them a great choice not solely for at home but on the road, too.

$856 at Impact

Pros

• Heavy-duty construction.

• Collapsible design folds flat.

• Takes less than a minute to assemble.

• Sold in neutral and cheerful colors.

Cons

• Some shoppers report that the aluminum siding arrives dented and/or dents easily.

• Expensive.

Overall review

Yes, it’s expensive. But shoppers report that for very anxious dogs — especially dogs prone to chewing — this crate is a lifesaver. “I bought this as my last resort,” writes one reviewer, “and this really solved the problem...there’s nothing for his teeth to grab on, and rip out of it.”

Kinship rating (out of 5 ⭐)

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Best crash-tested travel

Gunner G1 Kennel

$625

As strong and durable as the Impact Creates are, they’re not actually crash-tested. The Gunner G1 Kennel is, however. The original five-Star, Crash-Tested crate, per the Center for Pet Safety, the Gunner G1 Kennel is made with double-walled heavy-duty plastic and a lockable, powder-coated aluminum door frame to keep dogs safe and sound, not to mention temperature regulated.

$625 at Gunner

Pros

• Crash-tested for peak safety before, during, and after a wreck.

• Tie-down pins for extra security.

• Two durable top handles for easy carrying.

• Key lock.

• Recessed floor in the event of accidents.

Cons

• Expensive.

• Heavy.

Overall review

This crate is an excellent choice for pet parents who have travel-related safety concerns for their dog. Reviewers like how sturdy this crate is and that it’s been crash-tested for peak safety before, during, and after a wreck. “With this kennel, I have no worries if my dog — a member of my family — is safe or not,” one reviewer writes.

Kinship rating (out of 5 ⭐)

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

FAQs

What size dog crate do I need for my dog?

Your dog should be able to walk in, turn around, and lie down in their crate. 

What is the safest dog crate?

The safest dog crates feature sturdy materials, secure latches and locks, and a well-ventilated design. Of course, safety can also be subjective. For example, if your dog is an escape artist, safety could mean a key-lock crate; if they’re big chewers, a chew-proof crate will be safest.

How many types of dog crates are there?

All dog crates fall into one of three categories: wire, hard-sided, or soft-sided. From there, it’s the specific characteristics of each crate that set them apart. 

How much do dog crates cost?

Some dog crates cost less than $50; some cost upwards of $1,000. Generally speaking, you can get a safe, secure crate for less than $100. For crash testing and designer style, expect to pay more.