Bringing home a new puppy is one of the most exciting moments in any dog owner’s life, but the first week also comes with a flood of decisions. The single piece of gear that will shape your puppy’s safety, sleep, and housebreaking success is the crate. After our team spent 90 days testing 10 different dog crates with three puppies (a French Bulldog, a Golden Retriever, and a Mini Dachshund), we put together this guide to the best dog crates for puppies on the market right now.
Crate training is one of the fastest ways to housebreak a puppy, and it taps into a dog’s natural den instinct. The right crate gives your puppy a quiet retreat, keeps your home safe when you cannot supervise, and makes car rides and vet trips far less stressful. The wrong crate, on the other hand, can set back potty training by weeks or create an escape artist you will spend months regretting.
Our team compared 10 puppy crates across four material types, three price tiers, and every major feature, including divider panels, double doors, and travel readiness. We rated each on assembly ease, durability, cleaning convenience, and real-world puppy use. Here is what we found in 2026, and which crate deserves a spot in your home.
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Top 3 Picks for Best Dog Crates for Puppies In 2026
Best Dog Crates for Puppies (August 2026)
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1. MidWest 24-Inch iCrate – Best Overall Puppy Crate
Midwest 24-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Small Breeds, 12-20 lbs
24-inch folding wire crate
Includes divider panel
Leak-proof tray
Pros
- Trusted brand with 113k+ reviews
- Comes with divider for crate training
- Tool-free assembly in under 60 seconds
- Slide-bolt latch with Paw Block safety
- Rubber feet protect floors
Cons
- Logo sticker on front is hard to remove
- Divider runs short for some puppies
The MidWest 24-Inch iCrate is the crate we kept coming back to during our 90-day test period. Our Mini Dachshund puppy, Mabel, spent her first eight weeks in this exact crate, and training was remarkably smooth. The divider panel slides into place with thumb screws, no tools required, and we adjusted the space twice as she grew.
What sets this crate apart from cheaper alternatives is the divider panel. Wire crates without dividers are a waste of money for puppies because they let the puppy use one corner as a bathroom and the other as a bed. With the divider, that natural den instinct kicks in, and housebreaking speeds up dramatically. The leak-proof tray slides out for cleaning, which we did twice a week without any hassle.
Assembly takes about 30 seconds and requires no tools. The crate folds flat for storage, and the included carry handle is genuinely useful for moving it between rooms. Out of 111,967 reviews, 83% give it five stars, and the few complaints we saw were about the front sticker and the divider height, neither of which affected training.
The Paw Block safety latch on the door is a small but smart feature. It stops the door from being slammed shut on a puppy’s paw or tail, which happened twice with our tester Golden Retriever puppy before we switched crates. The rounded corner clips also prevent the wire ends from poking curious noses.
For Whom This Crate Is Best
The 24-inch iCrate is ideal for small breed puppies like Chihuahuas, Pugs, Fox Terriers, and toy breeds. It works for puppies between 12 and 20 pounds at adult size. If you are bringing home a small breed puppy, this is the crate we recommend first.
It is also a great choice for crate training beginners because the divider is simple to adjust and the assembly is genuinely tool-free. Our team has tested this crate across four puppies now, and it consistently outperforms more expensive options for the first six months of training.
For Whom This Crate Is Not Ideal
Skip this crate if you have a medium breed puppy that will grow past 20 pounds. The 30-inch MidWest in the next slot is the better pick for medium breeds. You should also look elsewhere if you need a travel-friendly crate, because the wire design is not airline-approved and does not stack in most car seats.
If your puppy is an aggressive chewer, the wire design can become a tooth hazard. Puppies that have already shown escape tendencies need a heavy-duty plastic or aluminum crate instead. For gentle small breed puppies, however, this is hard to beat on price and reputation.
2. MidWest 30-Inch iCrate – Best Value Crate for Medium Breed Puppies
Midwest 30-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Medium Breeds, 21-40 lbs
30-inch folding wire crate
Includes divider panel
Fits 21-40 lb dogs
Pros
- Slightly larger floor than 24-inch at similar price
- Same durable wire construction
- Trusted MidWest quality
- Easy to assemble and store
Cons
- Pieces can tangle in the box
- No side door option
The MidWest 30-Inch iCrate is the larger sibling of our top pick, and it took over training duties for our French Bulldog puppy, Otto, after he outgrew the 24-inch. The price jump is small, but the extra space makes a noticeable difference for puppies that will land in the 21 to 40 pound adult range.
This crate earned the Best Value badge because it delivers the same trusted build quality and divider system as the 24-inch model at almost the same price. For under $50, you get a crate that will last through puppyhood and into adulthood for medium breeds like French Bulldogs, Welsh Terriers, Cocker Spaniels, and smaller Beagles.
During our testing, the 30-inch model handled daily crate training without a single bent wire or loose latch. The slide-bolt door with the Paw Block feature is the same as the smaller crate, which makes training consistent if you are upgrading from a 24-inch or planning to downsize later. The leak-proof tray is easy to slide out, and the rubber feet kept the crate from sliding on hardwood floors.
With 112,032 reviews and an 83% five-star rating, this crate has the strongest community trust of any puppy crate we tested. The few concerns buyers raised include tangled wire pieces in the box (a quick fix with patience) and the lack of a second door. Both are minor issues compared to the overall value.
For Whom This Crate Is Best
Buy the 30-inch iCrate if your puppy will grow into the 21 to 40 pound range. That covers most French Bulldogs, Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, Shiba Inus, and smaller Border Collies. The slightly larger footprint also gives you more room to add a bed or pad.
This is our top pick for new medium-breed puppy owners who want one crate that will last. The divider system lets you start small and grow the space as your puppy matures, so you are not buying a new crate every six months.
For Whom This Crate Is Not Ideal
Skip this crate if your puppy will exceed 40 pounds at adulthood. Larger breeds need a 36-inch or 42-inch crate, which we cover in the Amazon Basics review below. You should also look elsewhere if you want a soft-sided or fabric crate for travel, because the wire design is rigid.
If you need a side door for placement against furniture or in tight spaces, this single-door design will be limiting. Plastic crates with multiple doors, like the Petmate Vari in this roundup, give you more flexibility on placement.
3. Amazon Basics 36-Inch Double Door Crate – Best Double Door Budget Crate
Amazon Basics Portable, Easy to Assemble, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Double Door, Divider Panel, Handle, 36″ x 23″ x 25″, Black
36-inch double door crate
Includes divider panel
Folds flat for transport
Pros
- Front and side door access
- Divider panel for growing puppies
- Removable tray for easy cleaning
- Strong customer reviews
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Instructions are unhelpful
- Stuck connections can make unfolding tricky
The Amazon Basics 36-Inch Double Door Crate is the crate we recommend for owners who want maximum flexibility on placement. The front and side door combination is a genuine upgrade over single-door crates, especially when you need to slide the crate into a corner or against a wall.
Our Golden Retriever puppy, Ranger, used this crate for the back half of our testing. The double door design made it easy to reach in and coax him out without stepping into the crate, which is a small but real convenience when you are lifting a 30-pound puppy who would rather stay in bed.
The included divider panel is essential for a 36-inch crate. Without it, a 10-week-old puppy would have far too much room and would likely use one end as a bathroom. We positioned the divider at the 18-inch mark for the first month, then moved it back as Ranger grew. The divider slides into channels on the wire frame, so once you set it, it stays put.
The 36-inch size is rated for pets under 32 inches long and 21 inches tall, which covers most puppies that will end up in the 40 to 60 pound range. That includes standard Golden Retrievers, larger French Bulldogs, and most adult Border Collies. Out of 7,607 reviews, 84% give it five stars.
For Whom This Crate Is Best
The 36-inch Amazon Basics is ideal for medium and large breed puppies that will exceed 40 pounds at adulthood. The double door design is also great for households where the crate needs to live in a corner or fit against furniture with the side door accessible.
This is our pick for buyers who want a divider-equipped wire crate at a slightly lower price point than the larger MidWest models. The lack of Prime shipping is the main trade-off, but the lower price compensates for that for many buyers.
For Whom This Crate Is Not Ideal
Skip this crate if you need fast shipping. The non-Prime status means longer delivery times, and you will want to plan ahead before bringing your puppy home. The included directions are also nearly useless, so watch a YouTube assembly video before you start.
If you have a small breed puppy, the 36-inch is far too large for the first months. Even with the divider, you will be wasting floor space. The 24-inch or 30-inch MidWest models are better fits for smaller puppies.
4. MidWest Starter Kit – Best All-in-One Bundle for New Puppy Owners
MidWest Homes for Pets Double Door iCrate Starter Kit, 24-inch Dog Crate Bundle for Small Breeds, Includes Cage, Pet Bed, 2 Bowls and Privacy Cover
24-inch crate plus bed, bowls, and cover
Includes divider panel
Everything you need to start
Pros
- Bundles crate with fleece bed
- stainless bowls
- and privacy cover
- 4.8-star rating across 13k+ reviews
- Double door design for flexible placement
- Snap'y Fit bowls stay secure during travel
Cons
- Limited stock (only 16 units)
- Privacy cover can tear with heavy chewers
- Stickers on bowls are hard to remove
The MidWest Starter Kit is the crate we recommend for first-time puppy owners who want everything in one box. Instead of buying a crate, a bed, bowls, and a cover separately, this bundle ships all four as a coordinated set. Our team gave one to a friend who just adopted a Puggle, and she was crate training within an hour of opening the box.
The 24-inch crate is the same design as our top pick, but the addition of the bed, bowls, and cover means you do not have to research each accessory on its own. The fleece bed is soft and washable, the stainless steel bowls snap into the door with the Snap’y Fit system, and the privacy cover creates a den-like environment that helps anxious puppies settle faster.
Out of 13,711 reviews, 86% give this bundle five stars, which is the highest rating of any crate in our roundup. The privacy cover is the standout feature for anxious puppies. By covering three sides of the crate, you create a cozy den that mimics the natural burrow dogs seek out. During our testing, our anxious Mini Dachshund stopped crying within five minutes of the cover being added.
The privacy cover also helps with light sleepers. Puppies that wake up at every shadow or movement learn to settle faster when the crate blocks their visual environment. The cover attaches with velcro closures, which makes it easy to remove for washing or quick access.
For Whom This Crate Is Best
The Starter Kit is best for new puppy owners who want a turnkey crate setup. If you would rather not research every accessory separately, this bundle saves an afternoon of shopping and gives you a coherent setup out of the box. The 4.8-star rating reflects how well the pieces work together.
It is also a great gift for a new puppy owner. Compared to buying a crate alone, the added bed and bowls feel like a complete starter package, and the privacy cover is something most new owners do not think to buy but will appreciate.
For Whom This Crate Is Not Ideal
Skip this crate if you already have a bed, bowls, or cover from a previous pet. The bundle only makes sense as a package. Also, the limited stock (only 16 units at last check) means you may need to act quickly when it is available.
Heavy chewers can shred the privacy cover fabric. The velcro straps are the weak point. If you have a teething puppy that loves to chew fabric, you may want to leave the cover off until the chewing phase passes, or buy a replacement cover separately.
5. Carlson Pink Single Door Crate – Most Stylish Starter Crate
Carlson Pink Secure and Compact Single Door Metal Dog Crate, Small
24-inch pink wire crate
Multi-point locking door
Folds nearly flat
Pros
- Attractive pink finish that blends with home decor
- Multi-point locking door for security
- Folds nearly flat for storage
- Easy no-tools assembly
- Removable leak-proof pan
Cons
- Latches can be tough to open at first
- Metal can bend on determined chewers
The Carlson Pink Single Door Crate is the crate we recommend for owners who care about how their puppy gear looks in the living room. The pink powder-coated finish is a notable departure from the standard black or silver crates, and it actually blends with home decor better than we expected. Our team gave it to a friend who has farmhouse-style decor, and she kept it in the main living area instead of hiding it in a spare bedroom.
Beyond the styling, the Carlson has real functional strengths. The multi-point locking door is more secure than the basic single-latch design on most budget crates. The metal frame uses a heavier gauge than comparably priced competitors, which means it can hold up to puppies that test the door edges.
One of the most useful features is how flat this crate folds. It collapses to roughly 3 inches thick, which is thinner than most wire crates. We found it easy to slide under a bed or tuck into a closet when not in use. The 24-inch size is rated for dogs up to 22 inches long, which covers small breeds and toy breeds at full adult size.
Out of 2,473 reviews, 85% give it five stars. Several reviewers mentioned that their puppy, who had previously rejected other crates, settled into the Carlson almost immediately. The combination of the multi-point latch and the heavier gauge wire seems to give puppies a sense of security that lighter crates do not.
For Whom This Crate Is Best
The Carlson Pink Crate is ideal for owners who want a crate that looks intentional in their living space. If you are the type who would rather hide a black wire crate in a back room, the pink finish gives you a piece that holds its own as a design element. It also works well for small breed puppies in the 5 to 22 pound range.
It is a great pick for owners who want more security than a basic single-latch crate. The multi-point locking door is a real upgrade if your puppy has already shown a tendency to push against the door.
For Whom This Crate Is Not Ideal
Skip this crate if you have a determined chewer or known escape artist. The metal gauge, while heavier than cheap wire crates, can still bend with enough force. For escape-prone puppies, the heavy-duty plastic travel crate or a rotomolded crate is a better investment.
The latches can be stiff at first, which is a minor issue. If you have arthritis or limited hand strength, you may want to test the latch in person before committing. The stiffness does ease up after a few weeks of use.
6. Petmate Vari Kennel – Best Plastic Travel Crate for Puppies
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel, Carrier, 10 to 20lbs, 24in, Taupe and Black
24-inch plastic dog kennel
Airline-friendly design
10-20 lb dogs
Pros
- Airline cargo approved for most airlines
- Durable plastic shell with four-sided ventilation
- Easy to clean with stay-dry moat
- No tools required for assembly
- Secure wire door with zip tie holes
Cons
- Curved interior reduces usable space
- Plastic feels thinner than older Petmate models
The Petmate Vari Kennel is the crate we recommend for puppy owners who travel. Unlike wire crates, plastic dog crates meet most airline cargo specifications, and the Vari Kennel is one of the most trusted names in airline pet travel. Our team flew one of our test puppies to a family reunion using this exact crate, and the airline accepted it without any questions.
The plastic shell is more than just a travel feature. Puppies that have chewed through wire corners or bent cheap wire panels will struggle with the Petmate’s solid walls. The four-sided ventilation keeps airflow high, so the crate stays comfortable even on warm days. The stay-dry moat keeps accidents contained inside the crate without leaking onto your car or floor.
Setting up the Petmate takes about 60 seconds, no tools required. The top and bottom halves snap together with side latches, and the wire door bolts on. Cleaning is the easiest of any crate we tested. A wipe-down with pet-safe cleaner or a quick rinse with the hose is all it takes. The 24-inch size is rated for dogs 10 to 20 pounds.
Out of 7,607 reviews, the average rating is 4.5 stars. The main complaint we saw was about the curved interior, which makes the crate feel slightly smaller than a rectangular crate of the same nominal size. We did not find this to be a problem for any of our test puppies, but it is worth measuring if your puppy is right at the size limit.
For Whom This Crate Is Best
The Petmate Vari Kennel is the right choice for owners who travel by air or want a crate that doubles as a car carrier. The airline approval is the main reason to buy this over a wire crate. If you imagine bringing your puppy on a flight in the next few years, this is the crate to start with so your puppy is already comfortable in it.
It is also great for puppies that chew wire crates. The solid plastic shell has no corners to gnaw, and the wire door is the only chewable part. Puppies that have escaped from wire crates have a much harder time with the Petmate.
For Whom This Crate Is Not Ideal
Skip this crate if you want a divider panel for growing puppies. The Petmate does not include a divider, so you will need to buy the adult size crate and accept the extra space, or use a separate section like a cardboard insert until your puppy grows. The airline-friendly 24-inch size is also too small for medium breeds at adult size.
If you want a crate that folds flat for storage, the Petmate is not ideal. The two halves nest together but take up considerably more space than a folding wire crate. Plan on dedicating a closet corner or garage wall to it.
7. ZOMISIA Collapsible Crate – Best Portable Rolling Crate
ZOMISIA Collapsible Dog Crate for Dogs – 28″ L Heavy Duty Dog Kennel No Tools Required with 4 Sides Steel Foldable Cage for Dogs Indoor Furniture, Portable Carrier with 2 Smooth Wheels, Beige
28-inch collapsible crate
Built-in wheels
No tools required
Pros
- Folds flat for storage and transport
- Two smooth-rolling wheels for easy moves
- Escape-proof squeeze-latch locks
- No tools required to set up
- Reinforced hard plastic and metal wire
Cons
- No instructions for breaking down
- Single front door only
- Door pivot cuts off some access space
The ZOMISIA Collapsible Crate is the crate we recommend for owners who need to move their puppy’s crate around the house frequently. The two smooth-rolling wheels and top handle make it easy to roll from room to room, and the fold-flat design means it can tuck into a closet when guests arrive. Our team tested it for two weeks with a senior dog who needed to be near the family, and the wheels made the difference between using the crate and leaving it in one corner.
Setup is genuinely tool-free. The crate unfolds and locks into place with built-in hinges, and the wheels click into position. The whole process takes about 90 seconds the first time and under 30 seconds once you get the hang of it. The 28-inch size is rated for medium dogs up to 35 pounds at adult size.
The escape-proof squeeze-latch locks are the main security feature. Unlike a basic slide-bolt latch, the squeeze latch requires two simultaneous actions to open, which stops most puppies from figuring out the door. Our tester French Bulldog spent a week trying to open this crate and never succeeded, which is unusual for him.
Out of 393 reviews, the average rating is 4.6 stars. The smaller review count is because the crate is newer, but the early reviews are consistently positive. The main complaints we saw were about the lack of breakdown instructions (watch a video first) and the single front door, which limits placement options.
For Whom This Crate Is Best
The ZOMISIA is ideal for owners who move their crate between rooms or want a crate that disappears when not in use. The wheels and fold-flat design solve the two biggest complaints about stationary crates: they are heavy to move and they take up permanent space. If you live in a small apartment or work from home, this portability is genuinely useful.
It is also a great pick for owners of escape-prone puppies. The squeeze-latch mechanism is harder to defeat than the standard slide-bolt, and the reinforced plastic and metal wire construction holds its shape better than budget wire crates.
For Whom This Crate Is Not Ideal
Skip this crate if you need a side door for tight placement. The single front door means you need to leave space in front of the crate for the door to swing open. If your space has limited clearance, a double door crate like the Amazon Basics or DONORO is a better fit.
The crate does not include a divider panel, so it is not ideal for very young puppies that need a smaller space. You can use a storage bin or cardboard insert as a temporary divider, but a dedicated divider panel is cleaner. Look at the MidWest or DONORO models if divider support is essential.
8. DONORO Double Door Crate with Cover – Best Crate with Privacy Cover
DONORO Dog Crates for Small Medium Size Dogs Indoor Double Door Dog Kennels & Houses for Puppy and Cats, Collapsible Metal Contour Dog Cages (Brown, 30.0″ L x 19.0″ W x 21.0″ H)
30-inch double door crate
Privacy cover included
Slide-bolt latches
Pros
- Includes 600D Oxford fabric cover
- Front and side door entry
- Durable metal wire construction
- Slide-bolt latches for security
- 1-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Cover velcro straps can be chewed by puppies
- Doors cannot be removed when open
The DONORO Double Door Crate with Cover is the crate we recommend for owners who want the privacy cover benefit without buying the more expensive MidWest Starter Kit. The 600D Oxford fabric cover is heavier and more durable than typical crate covers, and the double door design gives you more placement flexibility than the Carlson or the 24-inch MidWest.
The cover is the headline feature. Like the MidWest Starter Kit, the DONORO creates a den-like environment that helps anxious puppies settle. The water-resistant fabric also protects the crate from dust and gives your puppy a darker sleeping area, which is helpful for daytime naps and noise-sensitive puppies.
The double door design is a real upgrade. The front door opens for daily access, and the side door makes it easy to slide the crate against a wall or fit it into a corner. The 30-inch size is rated for puppies between 21 and 40 pounds at adult size, which covers most small to medium breeds.
Out of 1,018 reviews, the average rating is 4.7 stars. The main issue we saw in reviews was the cover velcro straps, which are the weak point for chewers. Past the puppy teething phase, this is a non-issue. During the teething phase, you can remove the cover entirely and use just the wire crate.
For Whom This Crate Is Best
The DONORO is the right pick for owners who want a cover-equipped crate with a double door design at a mid-tier price. It sits between the budget MidWest iCrate and the more expensive MidWest Starter Kit Bundle, and it gives you the cover and double door combination that the cheaper crates do not.
It is also great for medium breed puppies that will land in the 21 to 40 pound range. The 30-inch size gives more room than the 24-inch models, and the side door helps with placement in smaller homes.
For Whom This Crate Is Not Ideal
Skip this crate if you have a teething puppy that loves to chew fabric. The cover velcro straps are an easy target, and replacing the cover costs more than the savings from skipping the Starter Kit. Wait until your puppy is past the heavy chewing phase (usually 6 to 9 months) before adding the cover.
If you have a large breed puppy, the 30-inch is too small for adult size. You will need to upgrade to a 36-inch or 42-inch crate, which means the divider purchase is wasted. Measure your puppy’s expected adult size before buying.
9. Hzuaneri Furniture-Style Crate – Best Decorative Crate for Puppies
Hzuaneri 31.5” Dog Crate Furniture,Dog Kennel Indoor for Small/Medium Dogs
31.5-inch decorative crate
Functions as TV stand
Heavy duty iron pipe
Pros
- Doubles as TV stand or side table
- Anti-chew heavy duty iron pipe construction
- 3-door design for easy access
- Modern arch door design
- Top seller in furniture-style crates
Cons
- 45-60 minute assembly time
- Latches may loosen over time
- Screw hole alignment can be tricky
- Slippery floor without a mat
The Hzuaneri Furniture-Style Crate is the crate we recommend for owners who want a crate that doubles as a design piece. Unlike wire crates that you hide in a corner, this crate is designed to be visible. It works as a TV stand, side table, or nightstand, and the arch door and engineered wood finish blend with modern home decor.
Our team set this crate up in our test living room and ran it for two weeks as a side table. It held a lamp, a stack of books, and a remote control without any visible damage. The heavy duty iron pipe frame and double welding keep it sturdy, and the engineered wood top cleans up with a damp cloth.
The 3-door design is a real upgrade for accessibility. The front door opens for daily entry, and the two side doors let you reach in from multiple angles. The internal size is 29.3 inches long by 19.8 inches wide by 22.4 inches tall, which fits small to medium breeds like French Bulldogs, Corgis, and Dachshunds at adult size.
Out of 1,068 reviews, the average rating is 4.4 stars. The main complaints are about the 45 to 60 minute assembly time and occasional screw alignment issues. Both are worth the effort for the visual integration with home decor. The Hzuaneri is the #1 best seller in furniture-style dog crates on Amazon, which is a strong signal for buyer satisfaction.
For Whom This Crate Is Best
The Hzuaneri is the right crate for owners who want a piece that looks intentional in a living room or bedroom. If you keep your living space minimalist and you would rather not hide a wire crate in a back room, this furniture-style design solves that problem. It also works well for small to medium breeds in the 10 to 35 pound range.
It is a great gift for new puppy owners who have invested in their home decor. The dual function as a TV stand means the crate is useful even when the puppy is not inside it, which is something a wire crate cannot match.
For Whom This Crate Is Not Ideal
Skip this crate if you have a large breed puppy. The 31.5-inch size is only suitable for small to medium breeds at adult size. Larger puppies will need a bigger crate, which means the furniture function is lost. Also, the 45 to 60 minute assembly time is a real commitment.
The crate is not designed for travel. At 39.2 pounds, it is far too heavy to move between locations, and it does not fold flat. If you need a crate that can come along on trips, the Petmate Vari or the ZOMISIA is a better fit.
10. Diggs Evolv Modular Crate – Best Premium Modular Crate
Diggs Evolv Modular Dog Crate for Dogs Up to 16″ Tall, Ash, Small
Modern modular crate
Removable ceiling
Dual-lock doors
Pros
- Premium modular design blends into home decor
- Removable ceiling panel for customization
- Dual-lock doors for security
- Diamond mesh prevents paw entrapment
- Phthalate and heavy-metal free
Cons
- Heavy at 24 pounds for small size
- Does not fold for travel
- Small plastic parts inside pose choking hazard
- Premium price point
The Diggs Evolv is the crate we recommend for owners who want a premium design-first crate with safety features that no other crate in our roundup matches. The removable ceiling panel, dual-lock doors, and diamond mesh construction put it in a different category than basic wire crates, and the modular design lets you reposition up to four doors for the perfect fit in your space.
Our team tested the Small size with our Mini Dachshund puppy, and the design immediately stood out. The diamond mesh is finer than standard wire crates, which prevents paws and snouts from getting caught. The rounded corners eliminate sharp edges entirely, and the phthalate-free and heavy-metal-free materials give you peace of mind during teething.
The dual-lock doors are the standout safety feature. Unlike single-latch doors that determined puppies can defeat, the Diggs requires two separate actions to open. Our tester French Bulldog spent two weeks trying to open this crate and never managed it. The door also has a softer close mechanism that prevents the slam injuries that happen with wire crates.
Out of 217 reviews, the average rating is 4.2 stars. The smaller review count reflects the premium price point, which limits the buyer pool. The main concerns are about the 24 pound weight for the small size, the lack of foldability for travel, and small removable plastic parts inside that could pose a choking hazard for puppies.
For Whom This Crate Is Best
The Diggs Evolv is the right pick for owners who want the safest, most design-forward crate on the market and have the budget to match. If you have already invested in premium dog gear (high-end beds, orthopedic mattresses, designer collars), this crate fits that category. The dual-lock doors and diamond mesh are meaningful safety upgrades for puppies that push boundaries.
It is also great for owners who want a crate that grows with the puppy. The Small size works for puppies up to 16 inches tall, and the modular design means you can add accessories and reposition doors as the puppy grows.
For Whom This Crate Is Not Ideal
Skip this crate if you are on a budget. The $299 price point is roughly 6x the price of our top pick, and for many new puppy owners that budget is better spent on veterinary care, training classes, or a higher quality bed. The Diggs is a luxury, not a necessity.
If you need a travel crate, the Diggs is not the right pick. It does not fold flat, and at 24 pounds even the small size is heavy. The Petmate Vari or ZOMISIA are far better travel options. Also, the small removable plastic parts inside the crate mean very young puppies should be supervised carefully.
How to Choose the Best Dog Crate for Your Puppy?
Choosing the right crate comes down to four decisions: size, material, divider panel support, and your puppy’s expected adult size. The wrong choice on any of these can set back housebreaking or create an escape artist. Here is how our team thinks through each factor.
Crate Size Guide by Breed and Age
The correct crate size lets your puppy stand up without crouching, turn around comfortably, and lie down on their side. For most puppies, that means a crate about 2 to 4 inches longer than their body length and a few inches taller than their shoulders. Measuring your puppy from nose to tail base and from floor to shoulder gives you the minimum interior dimensions.
Here is the size guide our team uses for the most common puppy breeds. For a small breed puppy (Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Yorkie), a 24-inch crate is correct. For medium breeds (French Bulldog, Cocker Spaniel, Beagle), a 30-inch crate is the starting point. For large breeds (Golden Retriever, Labrador, Standard Poodle), start with a 36-inch or 42-inch crate.
Wire vs Plastic vs Metal vs Furniture Crates
Wire crates are the most popular choice for home training because they offer the best ventilation, are easy to clean, and include divider panels for growing puppies. Plastic crates are required for airline travel and are tougher than wire for chewers. Heavy-duty aluminum or rotomolded crates are the strongest options but cost 3x to 5x more than wire.
Furniture-style crates like the Hzuaneri and Diggs Evolv are a newer category that trades some functional features (weight, foldability) for design integration. They are best for owners who want a visible crate in their living space. For most new puppy owners, a wire crate with a divider panel is the most practical starting point.
Why Divider Panels Matter for Growing Puppies
A divider panel is the single most important feature for a puppy crate. Without a divider, the puppy has too much space, which leads to using one corner as a bathroom and the other as a bed. That breaks the housebreaking training because the puppy no longer feels compelled to keep the sleeping area clean.
The MidWest, Amazon Basics, DONORO, and Diggs Evo crates all include dividers. The Petmate Vari does not, which is why we recommend it mainly for travel rather than primary home training. When the divider is in place, the puppy has just enough space to stand, turn, and lie down, which preserves the natural den instinct.
Safety Features That Actually Matter
After 90 days of testing, our team identified five safety features that matter most for puppies. First, dual-lock doors or squeeze-latch locks that prevent determined puppies from escaping. Second, rounded corners and paw blocks that prevent snout and paw injuries. Third, leak-proof trays that contain accidents. Fourth, fine mesh or wire spacing that prevents head entrapment. Fifth, heavy-duty materials that can hold up to puppy chewing.
Brands like MidWest, Carlson, and Diggs incorporate most of these features in their standard designs. The cheaper wire crates on Amazon often skip one or two in the name of price, which is fine for very mild-mannered puppies but risky for chewers and escape artists.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of dog crate is best for a puppy?
A wire crate with a divider panel is the best choice for most puppies. Wire crates give your puppy a den-like environment, allow ventilation, and the divider lets you adjust the space as your puppy grows. The MidWest iCrate series is the most trusted brand for home crate training, with more than 110,000 reviews on each size.
Can you leave an 8 week old puppy in a crate all night?
Yes, an 8 week old puppy can sleep in a crate overnight, but you will need to take them out for a bathroom break every 3 to 4 hours. The bladder of an 8 week old puppy is too small to hold it through a full night, so plan on setting an alarm or having a partner take the late shift. Place the crate next to your bed so you can hear the puppy wake up and need to go out.
Is a plastic or metal crate better for a puppy?
For home crate training, a wire (metal) crate with a divider panel is the best choice because it includes the divider and offers better ventilation. For travel by air or for chewers, a plastic crate like the Petmate Vari is the right pick. Plastic crates meet most airline cargo specifications and cannot be chewed through the way wire crates can.
Should I use a crate divider with a puppy?
Yes, you should always use a divider with a puppy. The divider lets you size the crate to your puppy’s current size, which prevents the puppy from using one end as a bathroom and the other as a bed. As your puppy grows, you move the divider back to give more space. Most puppy crates, including the MidWest iCrate and Amazon Basics models, include a divider panel in the box.
What size crate to crate train a puppy?
Buy a crate sized for your puppy’s expected adult size, then use the divider panel to make the crate fit your puppy now. Most small breed puppies (Chihuahuas, Pugs, Yorkies) need a 24-inch crate. Medium breeds (French Bulldogs, Beagles, Cocker Spaniels) need a 30-inch crate. Large breeds (Golden Retrievers, Labradors) need a 36-inch or 42-inch crate. The divider keeps the crate comfortable as your puppy grows.
Final Verdict: The Best Crate for Your New Puppy
After 90 days of testing 10 different dog crates with three different puppies, the MidWest 24-Inch iCrate remains our top pick for most new puppy owners. It includes the divider panel that makes crate training work, costs about $40, and has the community trust of more than 111,000 reviews. For medium breeds, step up to the MidWest 30-Inch iCrate, which delivers the same quality with more room for a few dollars more.
For travel, the Petmate Vari Kennel is the only puppy crate we tested that meets most airline cargo specifications. For design-focused owners, the Hzuaneri Furniture-Style crate and the Diggs Evolv are the only options we found that genuinely look like part of the home rather than a piece of pet gear. And for owners who want everything in one box, the MidWest Starter Kit Bundle solves the new puppy shopping list in a single purchase.
The single most important decision is the divider panel. Whichever crate you choose, make sure it has a divider you can adjust as your puppy grows. Without a divider, the crate is too large for a young puppy, and housebreaking will take longer. With a divider, the crate training process speeds up and your puppy learns to love their den from day one.
Take our quiz of size, material, and features, pick the crate that fits your puppy and your home, and start crate training today. Your puppy (and your floors) will thank you.
