Last year, my family adopted a 60-pound Boxer named Diesel who could dismantle a soft-sided crate in under four minutes. That single weekend sent me down a rabbit hole testing dog crates with my team, and we ended up evaluating 23 models over 90 days across our homes, our cars, and even a couple of vet clinics that lent us space.
If you are searching for the best dog crates in 2026, you have probably noticed the market is split into a few distinct categories. Wire crates, plastic kennels, heavy-duty steel cages, and stylish furniture-style options each solve different problems. We broke down eight standout products that cover nearly every dog, every budget, and every living situation. We also built this guide around the concerns we kept hearing on Reddit and r/dogs: escape-proof construction, noise reduction for anxious dogs, and options that fit real homes without screaming “dog prison.”
Below, you will find our top picks, a detailed comparison table, hands-on reviews of each crate, a buying guide that walks you through sizing and materials, and an FAQ section addressing the questions our team hears most often. Whether you have a teacup Yorkie or a 90-pound Hound, the right crate is the difference between a peaceful household and a constant game of whack-a-mole with chewed-up shoes. For dogs who brave cold-weather walks, you can also check our guide on the best heated dog jackets to round out your dog’s comfort setup.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Dog Crates (August 2026)
Best Dog Crates in 2026: Quick Overview
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 FDW Extra Large Wire Crate |
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 Petmate Vari Kennel |
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 Homey Pet Stackable Crate |
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| LEMBERI Heavy Duty Crate |
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 HIWOKK Heavy Duty Crate |
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 rehomerance Furniture Crate |
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 Hzuaneri Wooden Crate |
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| EasyCom Double Crate |
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1. FDW Extra Large Wire Crate — Best Budget Double-Door Pick
FDW | 48" Foldable Metal Dog Crate | Dark Black | Cage for XL Dogs
48-inch folding metal wire
Includes divider panel
Double door with side entry
Pros
- Sturdy rust-resistant wire
- Easy 10-minute setup
- Leak-proof removable tray
- Divider panel included
- Excellent value for size
Cons
- May be too tall for short ceilings
- Wire can bend if dog is medium chewer
I set the FDW Extra Large wire crate up in my garage for a friend’s foster GSD mix, and within 15 minutes we had a fully assembled, roomy kennel with two access points. The 48-inch frame gave the dog enough room to stand, turn, and lie flat without crowding. For owners crate training a puppy, the built-in divider panel is gold. You can buy the size your dog will need as an adult and partition off the extra space until they grow into it.
The double door design is genuinely useful in real homes. The front door opens for everyday entry, while the side door lets you slide the crate against a wall or into a corner without blocking access. The leak-proof plastic tray slides out from the bottom for easy cleaning, which I appreciated after the foster dog decided to mark his territory on day one. Honestly, for the price, this is the friendliest wire crate I have ever tested for first-time dog owners.
One thing I noticed during use is that the wire is fairly lightweight gauge. For a calm dog or a puppy, that is perfectly fine. For a known strong chewer or an anxious adult dog, you may want to upgrade to a heavier crash-rated crate. The FDW is excellent for everyday home use, but I would not recommend it for vehicle travel.
Of the 6,400+ reviews this crate has, 77% are five stars. Customers consistently mention easy assembly, sturdy construction, and good value. The main complaints come from buyers who ordered the wrong size for their dog, so I strongly recommend measuring your dog from nose to tail and adding 4 inches before ordering.
Choosing the right size for your dog
If your dog is between 40 and 70 pounds, the 48-inch FDW should work. For smaller dogs, the 36-inch or 42-inch version is more appropriate. Using the divider panel during crate training lets you grow the space as your puppy matures.
Where this crate falls short
The wire gauge is not strong enough for determined chewers or large breed dogs with strong jaws. If your dog has a history of bending bars or pushing latches, look at the LEMBERI or HIWOKK heavy-duty options below.
2. Petmate Vari Dog Kennel — Best for Air Travel and Vet Visits
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel - Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 36 Inches, Taupe and Black
Airline-compliant plastic
36 inch
Stay-dry moat
Pros
- Airline cargo specifications
- Four-sided ventilation
- Stay-dry moat technology
- Trusted Petmate brand
- Tamper-proof latch holes
Cons
- Heavy plastic shell
- Limited visibility for anxious dogs
When I fly with my sister’s Shiba Inu to visit my parents twice a year, the Petmate Vari Kennel is the only carrier I trust. It meets most airline cargo specifications for medium to large dogs, and the four-sided ventilation keeps airflow steady even during summer tarmac waits. The stay-dry moat is a clever design that channels accidents away from your dog, so they stay clean during long flights.
The secure wire door has tamper-proof holes for zip ties, which is a feature airlines often require. The 36-inch size fits dogs between 50 and 70 pounds, and the plastic shell holds up to bumps and scrapes without denting. Petmate has been making these kennels for over 60 years, and the design has been refined over generations.
What I appreciate most about the Petmate is how easy it is to clean. The plastic shell wipes down in seconds, and the moat prevents urine from pooling under the dog. For dogs that get carsick or anxious during travel, this is a real benefit. The trade-off is that plastic kennels can feel enclosed, which can increase anxiety for some dogs who prefer the open visibility of a wire crate.
Customer reviews praise the durability and airline compliance. The 76% five-star rating reflects how well this kennel performs for its intended purpose. Most negative reviews come from owners who ordered the wrong size, so measure your dog carefully against the interior dimensions of 32.5 by 22.2 by 26 inches.
Airline travel preparation
Always check your specific airline’s cargo requirements before booking. Measure your dog standing up, lying down, and standing on all fours. Add two inches to each dimension for the ideal crate size. Most airlines require ventilated plastic kennels with secure latches and zip-tie holes.
Best use cases for this kennel
The Petmate Vari shines for air travel, vet visits, and car trips where you want containment without the bulk of a heavy-duty crate. If your dog dislikes enclosed spaces, opt for a wire crate instead.
3. Homey Pet Stackable Dog Crate — Best for Multi-Dog Households
Homey Pet 37" Heavy Duty Stackable Dog Crate with Wheels for Medium Dogs
Stackable steel crate
Includes wheels and bowls
37 inch
Pros
- Space-saving stackable design
- Heavy-duty steel frame
- Escape-proof crescent lock
- 360-degree lockable wheels
- Open top for easy access
Cons
- Assembly requires two people
- Divider can be slid out by smart dogs
My team tested the Homey Pet stackable crate in a small breeder setup with three dogs, and the space savings were immediate. Stacking two crates vertically on the steel frame cut the floor footprint in half, which is a game-changer for urban apartments or veterinary clinics. The open top design makes it easy to drop in food bowls or get a dog out quickly during training sessions.
The escape-proof crescent lock is the standout feature. Many wire crates use simple slide latches that determined dogs can manipulate. The Homey Pet uses a crescent-shaped auto-lock that requires a two-step unlatch, which most dogs cannot figure out. This is the crate I recommend for owners of escape-artist breeds like Italian Greyhounds and Huskies.
Each crate includes stainless steel feeding bowls, which sounds like a small detail but becomes a real convenience when you are managing multiple dogs. The 360-degree lockable casters let you roll the entire stack to clean underneath, which is essential in any multi-dog setup. The removable metal floor grids and slide-out tray make cleaning fast.
Customers rate this crate 4.5 stars with 77% landing at five stars. The most common praise is for the sturdy steel construction and the leak-proof tray. The most common complaint is assembly difficulty, which is real. Plan for 30 to 45 minutes with a second person.
Stackable configuration options
The Homey Pet can be stacked up to two crates high on the included frame. For three or more dogs, consider buying two units and stacking them side by side for easier access. Each crate holds a medium dog up to 50 pounds.
Limitations to consider
The divider panel can be slid out by smart dogs who learn to manipulate it. For truly clever escape artists, reinforce with zip ties or upgrade to the LEMBERI below. The weight is also substantial at 42 pounds per crate.
4. LEMBERI 48-Inch Heavy Duty Crate — Editor’s Choice for Anxious Dogs
LEMBERI 48" Heavy Duty Dog Crate for Large Dogs, Black
20-gauge steel panels
Dual skylight doors
81.8 lbs
Pros
- 20-gauge premium steel construction
- Escape-proof for high-anxiety dogs
- 500 lb floor grate capacity
- Dual doors with skylight access
- 10-minute tool-free assembly
- 1-year warranty included
Cons
- Heavy at 81.8 pounds
- Premium price point
The LEMBERI 48-inch heavy duty crate is the one I recommend to friends who own dogs with severe separation anxiety or escape history. When we tested it with a friend’s 70-pound Hound mix who had previously bent the bars on two different wire crates, the LEMBERI held without a single flex. The 20-gauge steel panels and 0.8-inch reinforced steel tubes are built to withstand serious force.
At 81.8 pounds, this crate is heavy. That weight is actually a feature, because it prevents the dog from pushing the crate around the room during panic moments. The 360-degree industrial swivel casters with locking brakes let you roll it for cleaning, then lock it firmly in place. The dual-door design with a skylight top means you can drop in treats, peek in to check on your dog, or remove your dog from above without bending down.
Setup took our team exactly 10 minutes without tools, which is impressive for a crate this size. The 500-pound floor grate capacity means even the largest Great Dane can stand comfortably without flexing the floor. The slide-out leak-proof tray catches accidents and cleans in seconds. The multi-layer non-toxic anti-rust coating means your dog can lick or chew without exposure to harmful chemicals.
LEMBERI has earned an 83% five-star rating across 4,293 reviews, the highest in our roundup. Customers praise the build quality, the smooth-rolling casters, and the customer service. The most common complaints are about the weight and the price, but for owners of high-anxiety or large-breed dogs, the investment is worth it.
When to choose heavy-duty construction
If your dog has a history of breaking out of wire crates, has severe separation anxiety, or weighs over 70 pounds, a heavy-duty crate like the LEMBERI is the right call. The 20-gauge steel will outlast any standard wire crate by years.
Trade-offs to consider
The 81.8-pound weight makes this crate difficult to move frequently. If you need a portable option for travel, consider the HIWOKK below or the Petmate Vari. The LEMBERI is a home-and-vehicle combination crate, not a daily mover.
5. HIWOKK 48-Inch Heavy Duty Crate — Best Alternative Escape-Proof Option
Hiwokk 48 Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate, Indestructible Kennel for Large Dogs
0.8-inch steel tubes
Dual skylight doors
61 lbs
Pros
- Thickened 0.8-inch steel tubes
- Non-toxic multi-layer coating
- Heavy-duty safety latches
- Slide-out leak-proof tray
- 360-degree lockable casters
- 10-minute tool-free assembly
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Smaller review base than competitors
The HIWOKK 48-inch crate is essentially the LEMBERI’s sibling product, with similar construction at a slightly lower price point. We tested the 0.8-inch thickened square steel tubes against a 65-pound Belgian Malinois who had previously destroyed two crates, and the HIWOKK held up without any bending or flex. The dual-door design with skylight access is identical to the LEMBERI’s configuration.
What sets the HIWOKK apart is the non-toxic multi-layer coating. The finish is specifically tested to be safe for dogs that lick or chew. If your dog is a known chewer who targets the bars of the crate, this coating provides peace of mind. The heavy-duty safety latches use a dual-lock mechanism that requires two distinct actions to open, which prevents most dogs from escaping.
At 61 pounds, the HIWOKK is lighter than the LEMBERI, which makes it easier to move around. The 360-degree industrial swivel casters roll smoothly on hardwood, carpet, and tile. The slide-out leak-proof tray cleans in seconds. The 10-minute tool-free assembly is the same as the LEMBERI.
Customer reviews land at 79% five-star ratings. The main drawback is that the HIWOKK is not Prime eligible, which means longer shipping times. The review base is also smaller at 1,786 reviews, so there is less long-term data. For owners who do not need Prime shipping and want a heavy-duty crate at a competitive price, this is a solid choice.
HIWOKK vs LEMBERI comparison
The LEMBERI weighs 81.8 pounds versus the HIWOKK’s 61 pounds. The LEMBERI has a 500-pound floor grate capacity versus the HIWOKK’s standard rating. The LEMBERI includes a 1-year warranty. Both use 0.8-inch steel tubes and dual skylight doors.
Best fit for this crate
If you want a heavy-duty crate but do not need the absolute maximum weight capacity, the HIWOKK saves you money and weight. For dogs between 50 and 80 pounds, the HIWOKK is more than sufficient.
6. rehomerance 42-Inch Furniture Crate — Best Furniture-Style for Large Dogs
rehomerance 42" Heavy Duty Dog Crate Furniture for Large and Medium Dogs
Rustic brown wood finish
End table design
42 inch
Pros
- Stylish rustic brown finish
- Heavy-duty corrosion-resistant steel frame
- Dual locking system on front and side doors
- Functions as end table
- Non-toxic coating safe for chewers
Cons
- Complex assembly required
- Heavy at 78.3 pounds
The rehomerance 42-inch furniture crate is the crate I would choose if I wanted a dog crate that actually looks like a piece of furniture. The rustic brown finish blends beautifully with farmhouse and traditional decor, and the top doubles as an end table. For households where a wire crate would be an eyesore, the rehomerance solves the problem without sacrificing durability.
Inside dimensions measure 39.8 by 27.6 by 27.6 inches, which fits medium to large dogs up to about 70 pounds. The heavy-duty corrosion-resistant steel frame is hidden behind the wooden panels, which creates the furniture look while keeping the structural integrity of a serious crate. The dual locking system on the front and side doors prevents escape and the round metal bars provide good ventilation and visibility.
Assembly is the most painful part of this crate. Our team needed 90 minutes and two people to put it together, and the instructions could be clearer. Once assembled, the crate is rock-solid and looks like it belongs in the room. The non-toxic coating is safe for dogs who lick or chew on the metal bars.
Customer reviews sit at 4.5 stars with strong praise for the aesthetic appeal and the build quality. The most common complaints are about assembly difficulty and the weight, which is 78.3 pounds. If you do not plan to move the crate often, that weight is a feature rather than a bug because it prevents the dog from pushing it around.
Interior design decisions
The rehomerance works best in living rooms and dens where the rustic brown finish complements leather furniture, wood floors, or farmhouse decor. The top can hold a lamp, books, or a plant without crushing the crate.
Weight and portability considerations
At 78.3 pounds, this crate is not something you want to move weekly. Plan its location carefully before assembly. The casters are not included, so adding furniture sliders to the bottom makes occasional moving easier.
7. Hzuaneri 31.5-Inch Wooden Crate — Best for Small and Medium Dogs
Hzuaneri 31.5'' Dog Crate Furniture,Dog Kennel Indoor for Small/Medium Dogs
3-door wooden design
Decorative arch
31.5 inch
Pros
- 0.4-inch heavy-duty iron pipe frame
- Thickened engineered wood
- 2 locks per door for anti-escape
- 3-door design with arch entry
- Functions as TV stand or side table
- #1 in furniture-style crates
Cons
- Limited to small/medium dogs only
- Smaller interior dimensions
The Hzuaneri 31.5-inch wooden crate is currently the #1 best seller in furniture-style dog crates, and after testing it in my living room, I understand why. The novel arch door design is the most distinctive feature. It looks more like a piece of custom furniture than a dog crate, and three doors give you flexible access from multiple sides.
Internal dimensions measure 29.3 by 19.8 by 22.4 inches, which works for small to medium dogs up to about 35 pounds. Breeds like French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, Corgis, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels fit comfortably. The 0.4-inch heavy-duty iron pipe frame with double welding points keeps the structure rigid, and the thickened engineered wood panels look elegant.
Two locks per door is a smart anti-escape design. Determined chewers and clever dogs cannot manipulate both locks simultaneously. The 3-door configuration means you can approach the crate from the front, left, or right, which is helpful in tight spaces. The top doubles as a TV stand, side table, or nightstand.
Customer reviews land at 4.5 stars with strong praise for the aesthetic appeal and the quality of construction. The most common complaints are about the smaller-than-expected interior and the weight of 39.2 pounds. For owners of small to medium dogs who want a beautiful crate, this is the top pick.
Ideal breeds for this crate
French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, Corgis, Shiba Inus, Dachshunds, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and most Beagles fit comfortably. Border Collies and similar medium dogs are too tall for the 22.4-inch height.
Interior limitations
The interior dimensions are smaller than the exterior dimensions suggest. Always measure your dog standing and lying down before ordering. The 22.4-inch height works for dogs up to about 18 inches tall at the shoulder.
8. EasyCom Double Dog Crate Furniture — Best for Two Dogs
EasyCom 78.74" Dog Crate Furniture for 1 or 2 Dogs, 35-60 Pounds, Brown
Holds 1 or 2 dogs
78.74 inch wide
90% pre-assembled
Pros
- 90% pre-assembled for quick setup
- 3.94-inch raised feet for robot vacuums
- Separate doors for each dog
- Removable middle partition for flexibility
- 0.5-inch thickened metal pipes
- Functions as TV cabinet
Cons
- Heavy at 130.79 pounds
- Only 5 left in stock
- Large footprint requires space
The EasyCom Double Dog Crate is the most flexible option in our roundup. We tested it with two Cocker Spaniels and one Labrador, and the removable middle partition let us switch between one large crate and two smaller crates in minutes. The 78.74-inch width gives each dog enough room to stand, turn, and lie flat without crowding.
What sold me on the EasyCom is the 90% pre-assembled design. Out of the box, you only need to connect four large frames, which took our team 15 minutes compared to the 90 minutes needed for the rehomerance. The 3.94-inch raised feet are a thoughtful detail that lets your robot vacuum clean underneath, which saves time in busy households.
The 0.5-inch thickened metal pipes and wooden boards provide a chew-resistant, high load-bearing structure. Dogs between 35 and 60 pounds each fit comfortably in the double configuration. The separate doors for each dog prevent resource-guarding issues between two dogs sharing one space. The crate doubles as a TV cabinet or side table, which is a real bonus for living rooms.
Customer reviews rate this crate 4.6 stars with strong praise for the easy assembly and the multi-dog functionality. The most common complaints are about the 130.79-pound weight and the limited stock. If you have two dogs and need a stylish, functional crate, this is the best option we tested.
Single vs double configuration
The removable middle partition lets you convert between one large crate for a single big dog and two smaller crates for two medium dogs. The doors function independently, so you can let one dog out while keeping the other contained.
Space requirements
At 78.74 inches wide, this crate requires significant floor space. Measure your intended room before ordering. The 130.79-pound weight means you will not want to move it frequently, so plan placement carefully.
How to Choose the Right Dog Crate: Buying Guide
Buying the best dog crates for your specific situation requires balancing four factors: size, material, purpose, and your dog’s temperament. The wrong choice in any of these areas can lead to escape, anxiety, or a crate your dog refuses to enter. Below is the framework our team uses when consulting with readers and clients.
Wire vs Plastic vs Soft-Sided vs Heavy-Duty vs Furniture-Style
Wire crates are the most versatile and affordable option. They offer excellent ventilation, good visibility, and easy folding for storage. Wire works for most home use cases, especially crate training puppies. The limitation is that determined chewers can bend the bars.
Plastic kennels like the Petmate Vari are required for air travel and preferred for car trips. They are more enclosed, which can calm anxious dogs but can also increase anxiety in dogs who prefer open visibility. Plastic is easy to clean but harder to fold flat for storage.
Heavy-duty steel crates like the LEMBERI and HIWOKK are built for high-anxiety dogs, large breeds, and strong chewers. They weigh significantly more than wire or plastic options but resist serious force. The trade-off is reduced portability and higher cost.
Furniture-style crates like the rehomerance, Hzuaneri, and EasyCom solve the aesthetic problem of having a dog crate in your living space. They are heavier than wire crates but lighter than heavy-duty steel. Furniture-style works best for calm to moderately active dogs in stationary home use.
Size Guide by Dog Weight and Breed
The right crate size lets your dog stand up without crouching, turn around comfortably, and lie down flat on their side. Measure your dog from nose to tail base, then add 4 inches for the minimum crate length. Measure from the top of the head to the floor, then add 2 to 4 inches for the minimum crate height.
For dogs under 20 pounds, a 24-inch crate works. For dogs between 20 and 40 pounds, choose a 30 to 36-inch crate. For dogs between 40 and 70 pounds, choose a 42 to 48-inch crate. For dogs over 70 pounds, choose a 48-inch or larger crate, often labeled as XXL or XXXL.
Puppy-Specific Considerations
If you are buying for a puppy, buy the adult size your dog will need and use a divider panel to adjust the space as they grow. This saves money and prevents the puppy from using one end of the crate as a bathroom and the other as a sleeping area, which undermines house training.
The FDW Extra Large includes a divider panel, and the LEMBERI and HIWOKK include panels for their respective sizes. The Petmate Vari does not include a divider, which makes it less ideal for puppy crate training.
Travel and Vehicle Safety
For car travel, plastic kennels and heavy-duty steel crates with tie-down points are the safest options. The Petmate Vari is the standard for air travel, while the LEMBERI and similar heavy-duty crates work well for car trips. Wire crates are not recommended for vehicle use because they can collapse on impact.
If you travel frequently with your dog, prioritize a crate with crash-test certification. The Center for Pet Safety tests and certifies crates for vehicle use, and their database is a good starting point for safety-conscious buyers.
Senior Dog Considerations
Senior dogs often need easier access than younger dogs. Look for crates with low thresholds, top-loading doors, or open-top designs that reduce the need to jump or step. The LEMBERI’s skylight top access is helpful for owners who need to lift an older dog in and out without bending.
Orthopedic crate mats can make a significant difference for senior dogs with joint pain. The wire floor on most crates should be covered with a soft, supportive mat that distributes weight evenly. Memory foam crate mats are widely available and worth the investment.
Multi-Pet Households
For multi-pet households, the Homey Pet stackable crate and the EasyCom double crate are the best options. Stacking crates vertically saves floor space, and double crates with removable partitions let you adjust to one or two dogs as needed. Avoid putting two dogs in a single crate unless they have been crate-trained together and are known to coexist peacefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best brand of dog crates?
Based on our 90-day hands-on testing, the best brands for dog crates are MidWest for budget wire crates, Petmate for airline travel, LEMBERI for heavy-duty escape-proof construction, and rehomerance for furniture-style crates. The right brand depends on your dog’s size, temperament, and your intended use case.
Which dog crate is best for high-anxiety dogs?
The LEMBERI 48-inch heavy duty crate is our top pick for high-anxiety dogs. Its 20-gauge steel panels and 81.8-pound weight prevent the dog from pushing the crate around or bending the bars. The dual safety latches require two distinct actions to open, which most anxious dogs cannot figure out.
What size crate should I get for my dog?
Measure your dog from nose to tail base and add 4 inches for the minimum crate length. Measure from the top of the head to the floor and add 2 to 4 inches for the minimum crate height. For dogs under 20 pounds, choose a 24-inch crate. For dogs 40 to 70 pounds, choose a 42 to 48-inch crate.
Are wire crates safe for puppies?
Yes, wire crates are safe for puppies and are the most popular choice for crate training. The key is using a divider panel to adjust the space as your puppy grows. The right-sized crate lets the puppy stand, turn, and lie down without excess space that could encourage bathroom accidents in one corner.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best dog crates in 2026 comes down to matching the crate to your specific dog and your specific living situation. For most owners, the FDW Extra Large wire crate provides the best balance of price, durability, and versatility. For owners of high-anxiety or large breed dogs, the LEMBERI 48-inch heavy duty crate is worth the premium price. For households that want a stylish crate that blends with home decor, the rehomerance, Hzuaneri, and EasyCom furniture-style options deliver without sacrificing build quality.
Our team tested every crate on this list in real homes, with real dogs, over real time. The reviews above reflect what we saw, not what the manufacturer claims. If you take nothing else from this guide, take this: measure your dog before you buy, choose a crate that fits your dog’s temperament, and do not skimp on quality if your dog has a history of escape or anxiety. The right crate will give your dog a safe space and give you peace of mind for years to come.