9 Best Dog Crates for Puppies

Some puppies need crates more than others. Puppies with a lot of energy, for example, benefit from having a place to expend that energy so they don’t get into trouble around the house. Other puppies may need crates because they’re anxious or because they have separation anxiety and need a safe place to stay when their families are away.

In this guide, I have provided an extensive guide on dog crates suitable for puppies, with reviews of top brands and with helpful buying guide with critical things to consider when picking the best brand for your dog.

What is a dog crate for puppies?

A dog crate is a den-like structure used to confine and protect a puppy. Crates come in all shapes and sizes, from small plastic crates that can be carried around to larger wire crates that stay in one spot. The type of crate you’ll need for your puppy depends on his size, needs and personality.

Dog crate vs dog bed for puppies – which one is better?

The answer to this question is not straightforward as it depends on each individual puppy’s needs. Some puppies will do better with a dog crate, while others will prefer a dog bed. Ultimately, the best way to figure out which one is better for your puppy is to experiment and see what works best for him.

If your puppy is anxious or has separation anxiety, a dog crate may be the better option as it will provide him with a safe, secure space to stay in when you’re away. If your puppy is simply full of energy and needs a place to expend that energy, a dog bed may be the better option as it will allow him to move around and stretch out.

Check out our reviews of the best brands of dog beds for small dogs here.

Puppies vs adults’ dog crates – Key differences:

Puppies also need to go to the bathroom more frequently than adult dogs, so they should be let out of their crate every few hours to relieve themselves.

Crates for adult dogs can be more spacious since they don’t need as much room to move around.

Adults dog crates are also available in a wider variety of styles and materials, while crates for puppies are typically made from plastic or wire and are less decorative.

Puppies may benefit from having a crate that’s coverd on three sides to give them a feeling of security, while an adult dog may prefer an open-style crate.

Dogs, when compared to puppies, take more time to bathe and eat. They also have bigger poops, shed more fur, and can be tougher to control.

Puppies are comfortable with crate sizes from 18-inches to 26 inches while most adult dogs need a crate that’s at least 36 inches.

Puppies need more frequent potty breaks, so they shouldn’t be crated for more than three to four hours at a time. Adult dogs can generally stay in a crate for up to eight hours.

Which puppies need dog crates the most:

Anxious puppies:

Puppies with anxiety or separation anxiety benefit from having a safe, secure space to stay in when their families are away. A dog crate can provide them with the feeling of security they need to feel comfortable and safe.

High-energy puppies:

Puppies with a lot of energy benefit from having a place to expend that energy so they don’t get into trouble around the house. A dog crate can provide them with the space they need to run and play without damaging your home or getting into mischief.

Puppies with health problems:

Puppies with health problems such as incontinence or allergies may benefit from being crated when their families are away so they can’t make a mess or get into something they’re not supposed to.

Puppies who are teething:

Puppies who are teething may benefit from being created so they can’t chew on furniture or other household items.

Related: On a separate article, I wrote 10 reasons why dog covers are important.

What are the benefits of using a dog crate for puppies?

There are many benefits to using a dog crate for puppies. Crates can provide puppies with a sense of security, safety and comfort. They can also help to keep puppies from getting into mischief or damaging your home. Crates can also be used to potty train puppies and to help with teething.

What are the different types of dog crates for puppies?

There are many different types of dog crates for puppies, from small plastic crates that can be carried around to larger wire crates that stay in one spot. The type of crate you’ll need for your puppy depends on his size, needs and personality.

• Small plastic crates: Small plastic crates are lightweight and easy to carry, making them a good option for puppies who need to be crated when their families are away.
• Large wire crates: Large wire crates are more sturdy and provide more space for puppies to move around. They’re a good option for high-energy puppies who need a place to run and play.
• Soft-sided crates: Soft-sided crates are made of fabric and have soft sides. They’re a good option for puppies who need a softer, more comfortable space.

How to pick the best dog crate for your puppy?

There are a few things you’ll need to consider when picking the best dog crate for your puppy.

• Size: Go for a dog crate brand with a size that’s appropriate for your puppy’s breed and size. Small-size brands have sizes ranging from 18 to 30 inches, while medium-size brands have sizes ranging from 24 to 36 inches.
• Needs: Consider your puppy’s needs when picking a dog crate. If he has separation anxiety, you’ll want to choose a crate that provides him with a sense of security. If he’s full of energy, you’ll want to choose a crate that gives him plenty of space to run and play.
• Age: Consider your puppy’s age when choosing a dog crate. If he’s a puppy, you’ll want to choose a crate with sides that are low enough for him to see over so he doesn’t feel isolated. You’ll also want to make sure the crate is big enough for him to comfortably stand up, turn around and lie down in.
• Breed: Consider your puppy’s breed when choosing a dog crate. If he’s a large breed, you’ll want to choose a crate that’s big enough for him to comfortably stand up, turn around and lie down in. You’ll also want to make sure the crate is strong enough to hold his weight.
• Personality: Consider your puppy’s personality when choosing a dog crate. If he’s a shy or anxious puppy, you’ll want to choose a crate that provides him with a sense of security. If he’s a playful puppy, you’ll want to choose a crate that gives him plenty of space to run and play.
• Material: The material of the dog crate is also important to consider. If you have a puppy who likes to chew, you’ll want to choose a crate made of a durable material like metal or plastic. If you have a puppy who gets hot easily, you’ll want to choose a crate made of a breathable material like mesh or canvas.
• Portability: If you’ll be travelling with your puppy, you’ll want to choose a crate that’s easy to transport. Small plastic crates are lightweight and easy to carry, while larger wire crates can be collapsible for easy storage.
• Gate design: The gate design of the dog crate is also important to consider. If you have a puppy who is escape-artist, you’ll want to choose a crate with a door that locks securely.
• Crate training: Crate training is another important factor to consider when choosing a dog crate for your puppy. If you plan on crate training your puppy, you’ll want to choose a crate that’s big enough for him to comfortably stand up, turn around and lie down in.

How to introduce your puppy to his crate?

When introducing your puppy to his crate, start by putting the crate in a room where he spends a lot of time, such as the living room or your bedroom. Put a soft bed or blanket in the crate and put some of his favorite toys inside. Leave the door open so he can come and go as he pleases.

Once your puppy is comfortable going in and out of his crate, you can start closing the door for short periods of time while you’re home. Give him a treat when he goes into the crate and praise him when he comes out.

If your puppy is resistant to going into his crate, try putting a treat inside and luring him in with it. Once he’s inside, give him the treat and praise him.

You can also try feeding your puppy his meals in his crate to get him used to spending time in there.

Crate training takes time and patience, but it will be worth it in the end!

The appropriate size of dog crate for puppies:

To determine the appropriate size for your puppy’s dog crate, start by measuring your dog’s height from the top of its head to the floor and length from nose to tail. Add four inches to those measurements, and you’ll have a good sense of what will fit.

According to a guide by Frisco and posted by Chewy, teacup breeds such as Chihuahua, and Pomorenian need a crate measuring 18 inches while Toy poodles and Yorkshire Terriers need 22-inch crates. Havanese and Pugs need 24-inch models.

How we settled on our top 10 picks:

I read widely on the topic including puppy safety on crates, how to use crates appropriately. Aside from first-hand testing, I also obtained great insights from other resources online such as the NYtimes and Rover.com. Several other sites and experts have put together helpful lists of top brands for puppies and those formed my foundation.

I found that a number of aspects had to be considered when narrowing down the brands. These include; crash test results, safety features like rounded edges, locked gates, and durability of the crate material. I also took into account user reviews and ratings as well as expert opinions. From all these data points, I was able to deduce the top 10 best dog crates for puppies that would serve various purposes.

Reviews of our 10 Picks for Puppies

Petmate Ultra Vari Dog Kennel

Our overall best crate for puppies in this list is one by an established 50-year-old company, Petmate. Petmate Ultra Vari Dog Kennel is currently the 4th best-selling dog crate enclosure brand on Amazon and for good reasons.

Out of about 4,000 customers that have purchased this to use on their small-breed dogs and puppies have rated it highly – with more than 85% approving it.

This medium dog travel kennel features tie-down strap holes, wire vents for ventilation a raised interior to keep pets safe and comfortable.

This dog crate meets most airline cargo specifications Made with heavy-duty recycled plastic material and features an easy-open front latch to quickly access. This brand also provides traditional travel carriers, wire training exercise kennels, playpens, barn-style dog houses and more.

The Petmate Ultra Vari Dog Kennel is perfect for safe and comfortable travel. The wire vents, raised interior, and tie-down holes provide a variety of features that will make your pet feel at home while on the go. The kennel is also made with durable plastic and metal screws that help keep it stronger for longer.

The wire ventilation openings surrounding the kennel provide 360-degree visibility and superior air flow, making it easier to keep your pet cool and comfortable during long trips.

The screw and fastener construction offers a simple, no-tool assembly for quick and easy set-up. The Petmate Ultra Vari Dog Kennel is also backed by a manufacturer’s warranty to ensure quality and satisfaction.

Pros:

-Durable construction

-Easy to assemble

-Ventilated for comfort

-Meets most airline cargo specifications

Cons:

-Some users found the crate too flimsy

-May not be suitable for very large dogs or puppies

2. MidWest iCrate Dog Crate

The Midwest iCrate is the best wire dog crate for puppies, and it’s a popular choice for pet parents who are looking for an affordable option that won’t sacrifice quality or safety. This brand costs almost $50 cheaper than the #1 brand above. With more than 24,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, this crate has been praised for its durability, ease of assembly, and crash-test safety. The iCrate is made with powder-coated steel wire and features a slide-bolt latch that secures the door in place. The crate also comes with a removable divider panel that allows you to adjust the size of the crate as your puppy grows.

The Midwest iCrate is available in a variety of sizes to accommodate puppies and small dogs up to 42 pounds. The crate can also be used for travel, as it meets most airline cargo specifications.

Pros:

-Affordable

-Easy to assemble

-Durable construction

-Meets most airline cargo specifications

Cons:

-Some users found the crate too flimsy

-May not be suitable for very large dogs or puppies

Best Heavy-duty dog crate for Puppies:

SmithBuilt Heavy Duty Dog Crate Cage

If your puppy is one of those breeds with high energy such as Fox Terrier, Australian Cattle Dog, Dalmatian, etc., then you will definitely need a heavy-duty dog crate to contain his/her rambunctiousness. The best heavy-duty dog crate for puppies that I could find is the SmithBuilt Heavy-Duty Dog Crate Cage.

This particular pet enclosure has been designed and built with high-quality materials to make it one of the strongest and most durable crates on the market. It features a steel frame construction with reinforced welded joints that can withstand even the most vigorous chewing and scratching.

The crate also comes with a powder-coated finish to resist rusting and corrosion.

SmithBuilt’s heavy duty dog crate features a 3/4″ frame reinforced with 1/2″ diameter (20 gauge) welded steel tubes for top to bottom strength and durability.

The convenient two-door design makes it great for puppies, growing pets, and energetic breeds; this kennel features both top and side door access. The front door locks with two slide-bolt latches, and the crate top with one.

This heavy-duty dog crate by SmithBuilt is perfect for indoor or outdoor use. The cage features four rolling casters for easy transfer, two with locks to keep the cage in place. The rust and corrosion-resistant hammer-tone coating is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, and the removable pan makes cleaning a breeze.

If you plan on using your crate outdoors, this brand is the perfect one for you.

Pros:

1. -Durable construction
2. Rolling casters for easy transfer
3. Rust and corrosion-resistant finish
4. Removable pan for easy cleaning

Cons:

• Some users found the crate too flimsy
• May not be suitable for very large dogs or puppies

Our top soft-sided crate for Puppies:

PetNation Indoor/Outdoor Pet Home

If you’ve already crate-trained your puppy and is unlikely to chew, the best crate with soft sides is the PetNation Indoor/Outdoor Pet Home. This pet pen is made with water-resistant, heavy-duty 600D fabric and features a steel frame for durability.

The doors are also made with steel wire to resist chewing and escape.

The crate includes a waterproof, removable mat that’s machine washable for easy cleaning. The mat is also reversible, so you can have one side for your puppy to sleep on and the other for playtime.

The crate is available in a variety of sizes to accommodate small to medium-sized dogs up to 90 pounds.

Pros:

– Water-resistant, heavy-duty 600D fabric

– Steel frame for durability

– Includes machine washable mat

– Available in a variety of sizes

Cons:

– Some users found the crate too flimsy

– May not be suitable for very large dogs or puppies

Best top-entry Kennel for Super Small Dogs and Puppies:

Petmate Two Door Pet Kennel

If you have a toycup or small breed dog, the best top-entry crate is the Petmate Two Door Pet Kennel. This pet carrier has a two-door design for easy loading and unloading, as well as top and front entry. The doors are made with steel wire to resist chewing and escape, and they lock with slide-bolt latches.

Unlike the #1 brand in this list by Petmate which goes for over $200, this two-door brand by Petmate goes for less than $50.

This Petmate Two Door Pet Kennel is perfect for small dogs, cats, or small animals up to 15 lbs. The kennel has multiple ventilation holes on each side that allow air to circulate and gives a 360 view while traveling to the vet, park, or groomer. The kennel also has multiple doors that offer easy access for loading your pet.

The Petmate Two-Door Pet Kennel is an air travel-approved carrier that is perfect for small dogs or cats. This kennel is easy to assemble and easy to clean, with no tools required for assembly.

It also features a strong wingnut bolt assembly, a sturdy, foldable handle, and spring-loaded latches to keep your pet safe during travel. The interior floor of the kennel also features a “stay dry” moat that surrounds the space in case of wet accidents.

Petmate Two Door Top Load Pet Kennel is made of recycled plastic and features a two door design with one on each side. This dog kennel allows your pet to be safely contained while you are away from home.

The top load configuration of this crate means that it can be used for dogs that like to climb out or dig under the fence.

The two doors make it easy to access your pet, and the hinged front door makes cleaning easy too.

This pet kennel has an adjustable slide-out floor tray that makes cleanup quick and simple, no matter what type of pet you have. The crate is also made with an easy-to-clean, durable plastic that can be wiped down or even hosed off if needed.

Pros:

• -Two-door design for easy loading and unloading
• -Top and front entry
• -Doors are made with steel wire to resist chewing
• – Available in a variety of sizes
• – Made with an easy-to-clean, durable plastic
• – Includes an adjustable slide-out floor tray for easy cleanup
• – Features a hinged front door for easy access to your pet

Cons:

• It has a weight limit
• -Some found the product to be too small for their puppies.

Best Wooden Dog Crate for Puppies:

Merry Pet 2-in-1 Configurable Pet Crate

If you’re looking for a stylish and functional dog crate for your puppy, the Merry Pet 2-in-1 Configurable Pet Crate is a great option. This crate is made with high-quality wood and features a two-door design for easy access. The doors are made with steel wire to resist chewing and escape, and they lock with slide-bolt latches.

The crate also includes a removable plastic tray for easy cleaning, and it’s available in a variety of sizes to accommodate small to medium-sized dogs up to 90 pounds.

Pros:

• – High-quality wood construction
• – Two-door design for easy access
• – Doors are made with steel wire to resist chewing and escape
• – Available in a variety of sizes
• – Includes a removable plastic tray for easy cleaning

Cons:

• – Does not come with tray
• -Not for dogs that chew or burrow

Another Heavy-Duty Dog Crate for Your Young Pup:

ProSelect Empire Cage

If you’re looking for a strong and durable dog crate for your puppy, the ProSelect Empire Cage is a great option. This crate is made with heavy-duty steel and features a two-door design for easy access.

oors are made with steel wire to resist chewing and escape, and they lock with slide-bolt latches. The crate also includes a removable plastic tray for easy cleaning.

Pros:

– Heavy-duty steel construction

– Two-door design for easy access

– Doors are made with steel wire to resist chewing and escape

– Available in a variety of sizes

– Includes a removable plastic tray for easy cleaning

Cons:

– Some found the product to be too small for their needs.

Best places to buy crates for young dogs:

Below are online retailers you can buy your dog crate from;

• – Amazon
• – PetSmart
• -eBay
• -Walmart
• -Petco

When looking for the best place to buy crates for young dogs, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it’s important to find a reputable retailer that specializes in pet supplies. Second, it’s helpful to read online reviews to get an idea of the quality of the products offered by the retailer. Finally, it’s a good idea to compare prices between different retailers to find the best deal.

Some great places to buy crates for young dogs include Amazon, PetSmart, and chewy.com. Prices will vary depending on the size and type of crate you’re looking for, but you can expect to spend anywhere from $30 to $200.

FAQs

Are dog crate necessary for puppies?

While crates are not required, they can be a helpful tool in housetraining your puppy. Crates provide a safe, den-like space for your puppy to stay when you can’t supervise them, and this can help prevent accidents and destructive behavior.

How do I choose the right size crate for my puppy?

The size of the crate you’ll need depends on the size of your puppy. It’s important to choose a crate that’s big enough for your puppy to stand up, turn around, and lie down in comfortably. If you’re unsure of what size to get, it’s a good idea to buy a crate that’s slightly larger than you think you’ll need—this way, your puppy will have plenty of room to grow.

What are some tips for crate training my puppy?

Here are a few tips for crate training your puppy:

– Start with short periods of time in the crate, and gradually increase the amount of time as your puppy gets used to it.

– Make sure the crate is comfortable and inviting, with a soft bed or blanket.

– Never use the crate as a punishment—this will only make your puppy associate it with negative experiences.

– Reward your puppy with treats or praise when they stay in their crate calmly.

How often should I let my puppy out of their crate?

Puppies need to go to the bathroom frequently, so they should be let out of their crate every few hours to relieve themselves. As your puppy gets older and is better able to control their bladder, they will be able to stay in their crate for longer periods of time.

What if my puppy doesn’t want to stay in the crate- what can I do?

If your puppy is resistant to staying in their crate, there are a few things you can try:

– Put their food or favorite toys in the crate to make it more inviting.

– Start with short periods of time in the crate, and gradually increase the amount of time as your puppy gets used to it.

– Never use the crate as a punishment—this will only make your puppy associate it with negative experiences.

– Reward your puppy with treats or praise when they stay in their crate calmly.

If you’ve tried these things and your puppy still isn’t interested in staying in their crate, it’s possible that the crate is too small or uncomfortable. Try getting a different crate that’s more spacious and comfortable, and make sure to put their favorite things in it.

Comparing top brands of dog crates for puppies – which one is better?

Petmate is the leading manufacturer of dog crates, and their products are available at most major pet retailers. Petmate’s crates are made from high-quality materials and are designed to be durable and easy to use.

Midwest is another popular brand of dog crates, and their products are also widely available at pet stores. Both Petmate and Midwest are American companies with high approval ratings.