15 Best Dog Crates for Puppies 2025: Reviewed & Tested

This content was reviewed and fact-checked by AKC Certified Dog Trainer & Behaviorist Madison Tanner Clark.

Bringing a new puppy home is pure joy—until you realize how much supervision, training, and patience those tiny paws require. That’s where a good dog crate becomes your secret weapon. The right crate isn’t just a containment tool; it’s your puppy’s personal den—a safe, cozy space that helps with house-training, builds routine, and gives them a sense of security when you’re not around. But with so many crate styles, sizes, and materials on the market, finding the best one for your growing pup can be overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll break down the best dog crates for puppies—comparing comfort, safety, durability, and value—to help you pick the perfect match for your little companion.

Best Puppy Crate Buying Guide

Choosing the right crate for your puppy is essential for your pet’s comfort, security, and training success. Here’s what to consider:

1. Crate size matters: For puppies, bigger isn’t always better. The crate should be large enough for your pup to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so spacious that they feel insecure or use a corner as a potty spot. A snug, den-like space helps your puppy feel safe and supports successful crate training.

Tip: Since puppies grow quickly, choose a crate that will fit their adult size and use a divider panel to adjust the space as they grow.

2. Material, crate type, and use case: Ensure the crate is sturdy enough for puppies and suits both your needs as the owner and your pupy’s size and temperament. Use this checklist to determine which crate suits your dog best.

3. Safety and comfort: A high-quality crate for puppies should prioritize your pup’s safety and sense of security. Look for sturdy, escape-proof latches, smooth rounded edges to prevent injuries, and narrow spacing to keep tiny paws safe. Add a soft, washable pad or blanket to make the crate cozy and inviting for rest and training.

Best Dog Crates For Puppies

Here are the best puppy dog crates of this year.

Best Overall Puppy Dog Crate

Color: Black

Material: Steel wire

Breed size: XS to XXL

Doors: 1

Collapsible: Yes

Why we recommended it: The MidWest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single Door iCrate Dog Crate strikes the right balance between durability and functionality. The sturdy steel wire construction and safety features, such as rounded corners and a secure slide-bolt latch, prevent injuries and escapes. Its leak-proof plastic pan simplifies cleanup—critical for housetraining—and the foldable design allows for quick setup, storage without tools, or easy transport.

What sets it apart from competitors: Unlike many crates that require purchasing multiple sizes as a dog grows, the iCrate’s free divider panel lets owners customize the space, saving money and hassle.

Best High-End & Premium Puppy Dog Crate

Colors: 14

Material: Stainless-steel

Breed size: S to L

Doors: 1

Collapsible: No

Why we recommended it: The Gunner G1™ Kennel is engineered for all scenarios, including travel, hunting, and high-impact environments. This crate is built to exceed the highest safety standards. It features thoughtful upgrades like a built-in drainage plug, oversized rubber feet to keep it stable, and all-weather materials that make it suitable for any climate. The double-wall rotomolded construction, aluminum-reinforced door, and escape-proof, stainless-steel hardware work together to form a virtually indestructible unit. Add-ons such as custom-fit pads, tie-down straps, and fan kits make it a versatile choice for working dogs, outdoor adventurers, and safety-conscious families alike.

What sets it apart from competitors: It’s the only crate to earn a 5-Star Crash Test Rating from the Center for Pet Safety. Unlike typical plastic or wire crates that may crumble under pressure or impact, the G1 is designed to withstand 4,000 pounds of force and protect your dog in the event of an accident. Owners frequently call it the “tank” of dog crates—and for good reason.

Most Durable Puppy Dog Crate

Color: White, black & silver

Material: High-strength metal

Breed size: S to XXL

Doors: 2

Collapsible: Yes

Why we recommended it: The Snuowu Heavy Duty Dog Crate is made from heavy-duty steel; it resists chewing, bending, and rusting, making it a long-term investment for those who need a reliable crate. Unlike typical crates, the Snuowu features dual doors: a front door for easy access and a top door for feeding or interacting with pets without fully opening the crate. The double-latch system adds an extra layer of security against dogs that have learned how to manipulate crate doors. Additionally, it comes with a 1-year warranty, providing peace of mind for long-term use.

What sets it apart from competitors: The Snuowu crate stands out for its 400-pound weight capacity and high-strength metal construction, which outperforms standard wire crates in durability. The 360° locking wheels are a game-changer for mobility, letting users reposition the crate effortlessly, even on carpets.

Best Puppy Dog Crate Furniture

Color: Brown, gray & beige

Material: Wood & metal

Breed size: S to XXL

Doors: 3

Collapsible: No

Why we recommended it: The EasyCom Dog Cage Furniture offers the best of both worlds: a sturdy, well-ventilated enclosure for puppies and an elegant furniture piece for owners. It offers ample room for one or two puppies to move comfortably. This crate blends seamlessly into home décor, where a traditional wire crate might look out of place while providing a secure and comfortable space for pets. The 3.94-inch raised base allows robot vacuums to clean underneath—no more wrestling with bulky crates during tidying. The metal bars ensure proper ventilation and security, making it more reliable than some enclosed wooden crate designs.

What sets it apart from competitors: The adjustable divider, which allows for two separate compartments or a single open space, gives flexibility based on the dogs’ needs. The sturdy wood frame and flat top can support home décor, televisions, or other household items. We love its comprehensive after-sales services, including hassle-free replacements for damaged parts, which are critical for long-term investments.

Best Puppy Crate for Air Travel

Color: Brown, gray & beige

Material: Wood & metal

Breed size: S to XXL

Doors: 3

Collapsible: No

Why we recommended it: The Ultra Vari Kennel is praised for its strong, impact-resistant plastic shell, which provides better protection than traditional wire crates during transit. The steel-wire front door and 360-degree wall openings ensure security while allowing proper ventilation, and the easy-to-use squeeze latch makes it simple to open and close. The molded interior keeps pets comfortable and safe while preventing excessive movement. Additionally, the heavy-duty plastic construction makes cleaning a breeze—just a quick wipe-down is all it takes. Plus, its raised interior and leak-proof moat simplify cleanup.

What sets it apart from competitors: The Ultra Vari uses EcoTEC™ Plastic, made from 90% recycled materials, offering eco-conscious durability without sacrificing strength. Its airline compliance (without aftermarket modifications) streamlines travel prep, saving time and hassle.

Best Crate for Small Puppy Breeds

Color: Pink, black & blue

Material: Steel wire

Breed size: S to L

Doors: 2

Collapsible: Yes

Why we recommended it: The MidWest iCrate Starter Kit includes not just the crate but also essential accessories like a divider panel, a plush bed, a crate cover, and two bowls. It’s ideal for first-time puppy parents or anyone looking for a convenient setup without purchasing everything separately, saving you time and money. This simplifies the crate-training process. The soft fleece bed provides a cozy resting spot, and the cover helps create a den-like environment that puppies love. The kit’s GreenCircle certification, which features 50% recycled materials, adds an eco-conscious appeal, appealing to sustainability-minded buyers.

What sets it apart from competitors: The slide-bolt latches and patented Paw Block™ ensure safety for curious puppies prone to escaping or injuring themselves on sharp edges. At the same time, the leak-proof plastic tray simplifies cleanup during housetraining mishaps. 

Best Soft Dog Crate For Puppies

Color: 13 options

Material: 600D fabric

Breed size: S to L

Doors: 3

Foldable: Yes

Why we recommended it: The EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate combines convenience with comfort. The soft-sided design makes it much easier to transport than metal or plastic crates, while the three-door system provides excellent accessibility. The mesh windows allow maximum airflow, keeping dogs cool and comfortable, and the included fleece bed adds an extra layer of coziness. Many owners appreciate how easy it is to set up—unfold and zip—and how it collapses flat for hassle-free storage. The removable, machine-washable fleece bed makes cleanup after messy accidents easy—no scrubbing required. Plus, the two-year warranty adds confidence in its longevity.

What sets it apart from competitors: Its steel tube frame and reinforced corners provide extra stability without adding bulk, striking a rare balance between sturdiness and lightweight design. Competitors often lack the removable storage pockets on the crate’s exterior, which are perfect for stashing toys, treats, or waste bags during trips.

Best Dog Crate for Anxious Puppies

Color: White, black & gray

Material: Aluminum

Breed size: M to XXL

Doors: 1

Collapsible: No

Why we recommended it: The Impact High Anxiety Dog Crate offers unmatched durability and security. Unlike standard crates, the welded, reinforced 62% thicker aluminum frame prevents even the most determined escape artists from chewing or forcing their way out. Ventilation holes (0.5 inches) provide airflow without creating large openings that could allow a dog to injure itself. It also features a stackable design that is useful for multi-dog households or professional trainers. There is a foldable option for those who prefer a bit more portability.

What sets it apart from competitors: The crate’s solid construction reduces outside stimuli, helping anxious dogs feel more at ease in stressful situations. It provides dogs with a dark, enclosed space in which they can feel comfortable. It’s also the only crate on the market that offers a Lifetime Dog Damage Guarantee. Meaning if your dog breaks it, we’ll replace it.

Best Puppy Crate for Car Travel

Color: White, black & gray

Material: Aluminum

Breed size: M to XXL

Doors: 1

Collapsible: No

Why we recommended it: The PetSafe Happy Ride Collapsible Dog Car Crate, unlike rigid crates that can be difficult to maneuver in and out of vehicles, easily folds down when not in use, making it perfect for pet owners with limited car space or those who want an alternative to bulky plastic carriers. The mesh sides provide ample airflow, ensuring dogs stay comfortable during trips, while the reinforced aluminum frame maintains its shape to prevent sagging. The crate’s removable, machine-washable fleece liner and waterproof outer shell make cleanup a breeze, which is a lifesaver for pet owners dealing with accidents or spills. We love the two storage pockets, a practical addition that allows you to keep essentials like leashes, treats, and poop bags organized and within reach.

What sets it apart from competitors: Many owners appreciate how the crate secures safely to the car seat using the vehicle’s seatbelt system, offering an added layer of safety. The zippered doors make it easy to get your dog in and out, and the padded bottom provides extra comfort for long rides. Additionally, its design minimizes distractions for drivers by keeping pets contained without making them feel cramped.

Best Wooden Puppy Dog Crate

Color: White, black & gray

Material: Aluminum

Breed size: M to XXL

Doors: 1

Collapsible: No

Why we recommended it: The Casual Home Wooden Pet Crate solid wood construction ensures durability, while the lockable gate provides peace of mind when leaving your pet unattended. The crate’s open wooden slats offer ventilation and visibility, helping your dog feel safe and comfortable. Made from solid wood, it’s sturdier than many MDF-based alternatives, giving it a longer lifespan.

What sets it apart from competitors: It doubles as a functional piece of furniture, making it a space-saving solution for small homes. The espresso and black finishes allow it to match various decor styles, and its solid wood build ensures it looks and feels like high-quality furniture rather than a pet accessory.

Other Best Puppy Crates

The Bottom Line

Choosing the right crate for your puppy is one of the best investments you can make in their comfort, safety, and training success. A properly sized, secure, and cozy crate helps your puppy feel at home while supporting good habits like house-training and independence. Remember, the goal isn’t confinement—it’s creating a safe, den-like space your puppy will love. With patience and the right setup, your crate will become a comforting retreat your pup naturally seeks out as they grow.

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Sources

Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process and product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.