Crates & Playpens
The best dog crates
The best crate is the right-sized one your dog sees as a den, not a cage. These picks prioritize correct sizing, a divider for growing puppies, and doors that fit your room layout.
Our top dog crates
MidWest iCrate Double Door Folding Dog Crate (42")
MidWest Homes for Pets
The default first crate for good reason: a divider panel lets it grow with a puppy, and the double doors make placement flexible in any room.
- Best for
- Most large-breed dogs (71–90 lbs) and puppies that will grow into it.
- Skip if
- Serious escape artists or heavy chewers who need a heavy-duty steel crate.
- Watch out
- Match the size to your dog's adult weight; use the divider so a puppy can't potty at one end.
Check Amazon for current price. Ratings and availability change. Verify on Amazon.
Check price on AmazonMidWest iCrate Double Door Folding Dog Crate (48")
MidWest Homes for Pets
The 48" size fits extra-large breeds (90–110 lbs) that are cramped in a 42", with the same divider and double-door convenience.
- Best for
- Extra-large breeds like Great Danes, Mastiffs, and big Shepherds.
- Skip if
- Medium dogs — this is too big and encourages pottying in a corner.
- Watch out
- It's heavy and large; measure your floor space and doorways first.
Check Amazon for current price. Ratings and availability change. Verify on Amazon.
Check price on Amazon
MidWest Foldable Metal Dog Exercise Pen (48")
MidWest Homes for Pets
A pen gives a puppy room to move without full run of the house — ideal for daytime containment and gradual freedom.
- Best for
- Puppies and dogs who need a safe contained area larger than a crate.
- Skip if
- Determined climbers/jumpers (add a top) or tiny apartments with no floor space.
- Watch out
- Tall dogs can tip or climb a low pen; choose height to match your dog.
Check Amazon for current price. Ratings and availability change. Verify on Amazon.
Check price on AmazonKey buying criteria
- Correct size. Big enough to stand, turn, and lie down — not so big they potty in a corner.
- Divider panel. Lets one crate grow with a puppy instead of buying twice.
- Door placement. Double doors give you flexibility in tight rooms.
What to check on Amazon before buying
- Size vs your dog's adult weight/height.
- Whether a divider is included.
- Single vs double door.
- Tray material and ease of cleaning.
Setup and usage tips
- Make it positive. Feed and treat inside so the crate means good things.
- Add a washable pad. Comfort plus easy cleanup during training.
- Place it thoughtfully. A calm corner with family nearby beats isolation.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Buying too big. An oversized crate undermines house-training.
- Skipping the divider. Puppies need the space limited as they grow.
- Cheaping out for a chewer. Escape artists need heavy-duty steel, not thin wire.
How we choose
- We start from the buyer's actual problem, not the highest commission.
- We prioritize products with a long track record and broad availability.
- We call out who a product is wrong for, not just who it is right for.
- We tell you exactly what to verify on Amazon before you buy.
We only earn if you buy through our links, and it never changes the price you pay or what we recommend.
Final recommendation
For most dogs the MidWest iCrate 42" with its divider is the right call. Step up to the 48" for extra-large breeds, or add an exercise pen if your dog needs a larger contained area during the day.
Frequently asked questions
- What size crate does my dog need?
- Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down fully — but no bigger, or house-training suffers. Size to adult dimensions and use a divider for puppies.
Get the free buying checklists
One useful email when we publish a new guide or printable. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
Free download: New Puppy Home Checklist (printable PDF)
Editorial guide last updated 2026-07-02. Product details require manual verification on Amazon before purchase.