Bringing a new puppy home is exciting! You’ve got tiny paws, wagging tails, and endless cuddles. But then comes the question: how do you keep your little furry friend safe and sound, especially when you can’t watch them every second? Choosing the right dog crate for your puppy can feel overwhelming. There are so many different sizes, materials, and styles, and you want the best for your new family member. It’s a big decision that affects your puppy’s comfort and your peace of mind.
Don’t worry, we’re here to help! By the end of this post, you’ll understand exactly what to look for in a puppy crate. We’ll cover the important features, explain how to pick the perfect size, and even give you tips on making the crate a happy place for your pup. Get ready to learn how to choose a crate that makes potty training easier, keeps your puppy out of trouble, and helps them feel secure. Let’s dive in and find the perfect den for your new best friend!
Our Top 5 Dog Crates For Puppies Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Dog Crates For Puppies Detailed Reviews
1. FDW Dog Crate for Small Dogs 24 Inch Folding Metal WirePet Cage Double Door W/Divider Panel Indoor Outdoor Kennel Leak-Proof Plastic Tray
Rating: 9.0/10
The FDW Dog Crate for Small Dogs is a sturdy and practical solution for training, traveling, or simply providing a safe space for your small furry friend. Its thoughtful design makes it easy to use and maintain, ensuring your pet stays comfortable and secure.
What We Like:
- Built with strong, high-tensile wire and an epoxy coating, this crate resists rust and fading, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
- Dual doors, one at the front and one on the side, offer convenient access. Secure dual latches keep your pet safe inside.
- Assembly is a breeze! No tools are needed, and the crate sets up in minutes. The included divider panel lets you adjust the space, perfect for growing puppies or separating two pets.
- Cleaning is simple thanks to the leak-proof ABS composite tray. It won’t stain or hold odors, and the raised lip keeps messes contained.
- The crate folds flat for easy storage and portability. It even has a removable carrying handle, making it ideal for trips.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, the wire construction might not be suitable for very strong chewers.
- The 24-inch size is specifically for small dogs; larger breeds would need a different model.
This FDW dog crate offers a great balance of durability, convenience, and safety for small dogs. It’s a reliable choice for pet owners looking for a versatile and easy-to-manage kennel.
2. Sweetcrispy 24-Inch Single-Door Dog Crate–Durable Metal Pet Kennel with Secure Lock
Rating: 9.5/10
The Sweetcrispy 24-Inch Single-Door Dog Crate is a strong and safe haven for your furry friend. It’s built tough with high-quality iron, so it can handle daily use and even travel. This crate is perfect for training your puppy or giving your small dog a secure space of their own. It’s designed with your pet’s comfort and your convenience in mind.
What We Like:
- The durable metal construction makes it very strong and long-lasting.
- The secure single-door design with a heavy-duty latch keeps your pet safe inside.
- Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the removable plastic tray that catches messes.
- It folds flat easily, making it super portable and simple to store.
- Smooth edges and an open design ensure your pet is comfortable and can see out.
- Good ventilation helps your pet stay cool and comfortable.
What Could Be Improved:
- For larger, very active dogs, the single door might offer less flexibility for entry.
- While it’s great for small to medium dogs, it won’t work for bigger breeds.
This crate offers a great balance of durability, safety, and ease of use. It’s a solid choice for pet parents looking for a reliable kennel.
3. 42x42x25.6 Inches Puppy Playpen with Gate
Rating: 9.4/10
This 42x42x25.6 Inches Puppy Playpen with Gate is a fantastic option for giving your small dog or puppy a safe and spacious place to play. It offers a generous 12.25 square feet of room, much more than a typical cage, so your furry friend can move around and have fun without you worrying about them.
What We Like:
- Spacious Play Area: The 42x42x25.6 inch size provides ample room for puppies to play and explore, offering a comfortable living space.
- Durable and Safe Materials: Made with thickened 600D Oxford cloth and high-strength nylon wire mesh, it’s built to resist chewing and scratching, preventing injuries that can happen with metal pens.
- Easy Access and Visibility: The open, non-capping design with an upward rolling door makes it simple to get your pet in and out. The mesh sides let you easily keep an eye on your pet from any angle.
- Simple Assembly and Storage: It snaps together quickly without tools and folds down compactly, making it easy to move and store when not in use.
- Great for Small to Medium Pets: Ideal for dogs up to 10 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing under 20lbs.
- Excellent Customer Support: The company offers great service and will help with any issues like damage or missing parts.
What Could Be Improved:
- No Top Cover Included: A separate top cover needs to be purchased if you have a pet that might try to jump out.
- Not for Very Active Pets: This playpen is not suitable for extremely energetic pets as it doesn’t have a top.
This playpen offers a safe and comfortable space for your small dog or puppy. Its thoughtful design and durable materials make it a reliable choice for pet owners.
4. Amazon Basics Durable
Rating: 9.0/10
The Amazon Basics Durable, Foldable Metal Wire Small Dog Crate is a great option for pet parents looking for a reliable and easy-to-use enclosure for their small furry friends. This black, single-door crate is designed for pets under 20 x 15.25 inches (length x height), making it ideal for breeds like Havanese or Pugs. It offers a secure space for your dog while also being convenient for you.
What We Like:
- It’s made from strong metal wire, so it’s built to last.
- The crate sets up and folds down really fast. This makes it super easy to move around or store when you don’t need it.
- A handy top handle makes carrying it a breeze.
- It comes with a divider so you can adjust the inside space as your dog grows.
- The plastic tray slides out easily, which makes cleaning up messes simple.
- There’s a special hook at the bottom to keep the tray from sliding out on its own.
- The price is very reasonable for a sturdy crate.
What Could Be Improved:
- The locking mechanism is manual, which is secure but might not be as quick to operate as some other types.
- While it’s great for small dogs, it’s important to measure your dog carefully to ensure they have enough room to stand and turn around comfortably.
This Amazon Basics dog crate offers a good balance of durability and convenience for small dog owners. It’s a practical choice for training, travel, or just providing a safe den for your pet.
5. MidWest Homes for Pets 24-Inch iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel
Rating: 9.2/10
This MidWest Homes for Pets 24-Inch iCrate Folding Dog Crate is a fantastic choice for small dog owners. It offers a safe and comfortable space for your furry friend, whether for training, travel, or just a cozy den. This metal wire kennel is built with durability and your pet’s security in mind.
What We Like:
- Enhanced security features, like patented Paw Block and locking tips on the slide-bolt door latch, keep your pet extra safe.
- It’s the perfect size for small breeds weighing 12 to 25 pounds, measuring 24L x 17 x 19 inches.
- The crate comes with a helpful divider panel so you can adjust the space as your dog grows.
- A durable, leak-proof plastic pan makes cleaning up accidents a breeze.
- Assembly is super easy and takes no tools, and it folds flat for convenient travel.
- The sturdy metal wire construction provides good ventilation and a secure den-like environment.
- Rounded corner clips and a low threshold door opening add to your dog’s safety.
- Customer support is based right here in Indiana.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s not recommended to use a crate mat or bed when the divider panel is in use, which might limit comfort options for some dogs.
- If your dog is on the larger side of the weight range, it’s best to get the next size up to ensure a proper fit.
Overall, the MidWest iCrate offers a secure, user-friendly, and portable solution for small dogs. It’s a great investment for providing your pet with a safe and comfortable personal space.
Choosing the Right Home for Your New Puppy: A Comprehensive Dog Crate Buying Guide
Bringing a new puppy home is an exciting time! A dog crate can be a valuable tool to help your puppy adjust to their new surroundings, learn house-training, and feel secure. But with so many options, how do you pick the best one? This guide will help you make an informed decision.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a puppy crate, keep these important features in mind:
- **Size:** This is the most crucial factor. Your puppy needs enough space to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. However, it shouldn’t be too big, or they might use one end as a potty area. Many crates come with dividers so you can adjust the size as your puppy grows.
- **Durability:** Puppies can be chewers! Look for sturdy construction that can withstand some playful nibbling and energetic wiggles.
- **Ventilation:** Good airflow is essential for your puppy’s comfort and health. Ensure the crate has plenty of openings.
- **Ease of Cleaning:** Accidents happen, especially with puppies. A crate that’s easy to wipe down or has a removable tray will save you a lot of hassle.
- **Portability:** If you plan to travel with your puppy or move the crate around the house, consider how easy it is to set up, take down, and carry.
- **Security:** The crate should feel like a safe den for your puppy. Latches should be secure to prevent escape.
Important Materials
The material of a crate significantly impacts its durability, safety, and ease of use.
- **Wire Crates:** These are very popular. They offer excellent ventilation and visibility. They are usually made of sturdy metal wire. Many have plastic trays that slide out for easy cleaning.
- **Plastic Crates (also called “travel crates” or “airline crates”):** These are often more enclosed, which can make some puppies feel more secure. They are typically made of durable plastic and can be easier to clean.
- **Fabric Crates:** These are soft-sided and lightweight. They are great for older, well-trained dogs or for use inside the house as a cozy den. However, they are not ideal for puppies who are still teething or prone to chewing.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a crate better or worse.
What Makes a Crate High Quality:
- Strong, well-welded seams on wire crates.
- Thick, sturdy plastic on plastic crates.
- Smooth edges to prevent injury.
- Secure, easy-to-operate latches.
- A removable, easy-to-clean tray.
- A well-designed divider system for growing puppies.
What Can Reduce Crate Quality:
- Flimsy wire that bends easily.
- Sharp edges or points.
- Latches that are hard to close or easily opened by a determined puppy.
- Plastic trays that crack or warp.
- Poor ventilation.
User Experience and Use Cases
Most owners find that a well-chosen crate becomes an invaluable part of puppy training.
Crates are excellent for:
- House-training: Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area. A crate helps prevent accidents inside.
- Preventing destructive behavior: When left unsupervised, puppies can chew furniture or get into trouble. A crate keeps them safe.
- Creating a safe space: A crate becomes your puppy’s den, a place where they can relax and feel secure.
- Travel: Many plastic crates are designed for airline travel and make car trips safer.
The user experience is generally positive when the crate is the right size and introduced properly. It should be a positive experience, not a punishment. Owners often report their puppies eagerly go into their crates for naps or when they need to be left alone.
Frequently Asked Questions About Puppy Crates
Q: How do I choose the right size crate for my puppy?
A: Measure your puppy from nose to tail and from the top of their head to the floor. The crate should be just big enough for them to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. If you’re buying a crate for them to grow into, use a divider to make it smaller at first.
Q: Should I get a wire crate or a plastic crate?
A: Wire crates offer great ventilation and visibility. Plastic crates can feel more den-like and are often better for travel. Both can be good choices depending on your needs.
Q: How long should my puppy stay in the crate?
A: Puppies have small bladders. Generally, a puppy can stay in a crate for about one hour per month of age, plus one hour. So, a 3-month-old puppy could stay for about 4 hours. Never leave a puppy in a crate for too long.
Q: How do I introduce my puppy to the crate?
A: Make it a positive experience! Toss treats and toys inside. Feed meals in the crate. Never force your puppy in. Start with short periods and gradually increase the time.
Q: What if my puppy cries in the crate?
A: First, make sure their needs are met (potty, food, water, exercise). If they continue to cry, ensure the crate is a positive place. Sometimes, ignoring mild whining can help them settle, but if they are distressed, take them out.
Q: Can I use a crate for potty training?
A: Yes! Crates are very effective for potty training because dogs don’t like to soil their sleeping area. Take them out frequently.
Q: What if my puppy chews the crate?
A: If you have a wire crate, ensure there are no loose wires. If your puppy is excessively chewing a plastic crate, it might not be durable enough. For fabric crates, chewing is a major concern, and they are not recommended for chewers.
Q: Do I need a divider for my puppy’s crate?
A: If you buy a crate that’s sized for your puppy’s adult size, then yes, a divider is essential. It allows you to adjust the space as they grow, preventing them from using one end as a potty area.
Q: How do I clean a dog crate?
A: Most wire and plastic crates have removable trays. These can be washed with soap and water. For the rest of the crate, a damp cloth and mild soap usually work well. Fabric crates can often be spot-cleaned or even machine washed.
Q: Is a crate a punishment for my dog?
A: Absolutely not! A crate should be a positive, safe space for your dog. It’s their den. Never use it as punishment.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Mallory Crusta, the heart and mind behind LovelyPetSpot.com.. As a passionate pet enthusiast, I created this space to share my experiences, expertise, and love for all things pets. Whether it’s helpful tips, heartfelt stories, or advice for pet parents, my mission is to make the journey of caring for your furry, feathery, or scaly friends as joyful and fulfilling as possible. Join me in celebrating the incredible bond we share with our animal companions!