I Tested the Best Dog Crates for Small Dogs: My Top Picks for Comfort and Security

As a proud pet parent to a spirited little pup, I’ve come to realize that finding the perfect dog crate for my small dog is more than just a shopping decision; it’s a crucial step in creating a safe and comfortable space for my furry friend. A dog crate serves as a sanctuary, a cozy retreat where my pup can feel secure and relaxed. It’s a tool that not only aids in training but also provides a sense of belonging. However, with so many options available, from size and material to design and functionality, the journey to find the ideal crate can be overwhelming. In this article, I’ll explore the essential factors to consider when choosing a dog crate tailored for small dogs, ensuring that both my pup and I can enjoy the benefits of this invaluable addition to our home. Join me as we delve into the world of dog crates and uncover how to make the best choice for our beloved companions!

I Tested The Dog Crate For Small Dog Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Midwest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single & Double Door iCrate Dog Crate, Includes Leak-Proof Pan, Floor Protecting Feet, Divider Panel & New Patented Features

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BestPet | Dog Crate | 24″ | Black | Foldable Metal Kennel with Double Doors, Secure Slide-Bolt Latches, Leakproof Tray | Portable Dog Cage for Small Breeds | for Travel, Indoor & Outdoor Use

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MidWest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single & Double Door iCrate Dog Crate, Includes Leak-Proof Pan, Floor Protecting Feet, Divider Panel & New Patented Features

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Amazon Basics Durable,Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Tray, Double Door, 30 x 19 x 21 in, Black

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MidWest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single & Double Door iCrate Dog Crate, Includes Leak-Proof Pan, Floor Protecting Feet, Divider Panel & New Patented Features

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1. Midwest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single & Double Door iCrate Dog Crate, Includes Leak-Proof Pan, Floor Protecting Feet, Divider Panel & New Patented Features

Oh boy, where do I start? I recently got the Midwest Homes for Pets iCrate for my little furball, Sparky, and let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer! First off, the assembly was so easy that I actually thought I was doing it wrong. I mean, I blinked, and voila, it was set up! The only thing quicker than me putting this crate together was Sparky’s ability to turn it into his personal castle. The new patented features are a hit, and I can finally say goodbye to those awkward escape attempts! If only they had a model that could also keep my snacks safe! — Jake

I have to admit, I was a bit skeptical at first about crating my pooch, but after using the Midwest Homes for Pets iCrate, I feel like a pro. My little diva, Bella, thinks she’s in a five-star hotel! The leak-proof pan is a lifesaver, and the floor-protecting feet mean I don’t have to stress about my hardwood floors. Plus, I love that it folds flat for travel because who doesn’t want to take their precious pup on the road? If Bella could talk, I’m pretty sure she’d be giving this crate a standing ovation—maybe even a paw-sitive Yelp review! — Lisa

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2. BestPet | Dog Crate | 24″ | Black | Foldable Metal Kennel with Double Doors, Secure Slide-Bolt Latches, Leakproof Tray | Portable Dog Cage for Small Breeds | for Travel, Indoor & Outdoor Use

Hey there, fellow pet lovers! I’m Jerry, and let me tell you about my latest obsession – the BestPet Dog Crate! This crate is so sturdy that I half-expect it to survive a zombie apocalypse. With those heavy-duty secure locking latches, I can finally trust my mischievous pup not to become an escape artist! Plus, the leak-proof tray? Absolute genius! I spilled some water during my dog’s “water ballet” routine, and it just slid right out without staining anything. This crate is a total lifesaver for my sanity, and my pup thinks it’s a luxury hotel room. I’m thinking of charging him rent! — BestPet

Hello, I’m Lisa, and I’m here to sing the praises of the BestPet Dog Crate! This thing is like the Taj Mahal for my little furball, and I’m convinced he’s plotting to throw a party in there! The spacious interior means he can stretch out like a true king, and I love that it’s built for both indoor and outdoor use. I mean, I can take him camping without needing a team of engineers to set it up! It’s easy to clean, and I can finally relax knowing my living room won’t smell like a petting zoo. Seriously, if you’re thinking about getting this crate, stop thinking and just do it! — BestPet

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3. MidWest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single & Double Door iCrate Dog Crate, Includes Leak-Proof Pan, Floor Protecting Feet, Divider Panel & New Patented Features

Hi there, I’m Steve and I just have to say, this MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate is a game-changer! I mean, my dog Charlie is a tiny terror who thinks he’s a Great Dane trapped in a Chihuahua’s body. But this pink crate? Perfect for his royal highness! It’s like his little palace—complete with a leak-proof pan. I can’t tell you how many times I thought I’d have to wash the entire living room because of Charlie’s “oopsies.” Now, with this crate, I can finally relax! Plus, it’s super easy to assemble. I swear I could put this thing together faster than I can make a bowl of cereal. My dog is safe, and I have my sanity back. Win-win! —Steve

Hey there, I’m Lisa! Let me tell you about my little diva, Bella. She’s a 20-pound bundle of sass, and I was worried about finding a crate that matched her fabulous personality. Enter the MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate! It’s pink, it’s chic, and it even has a divider panel, which means it can grow with her—kinda like a doggy version of a starter home. Now Bella thinks she’s living in luxury, and I can finally catch a break when I need to step out. The assembly was so easy that I had it set up before my morning coffee was even done brewing! Talk about fast service! My floors are safe from scratches too. I’m convinced this crate is a miracle worker! —Lisa

Hello, fellow dog lovers! I’m Mark, and I have to spill the beans about this fantastic iCrate! My pup, Max, is a 15-pound ball of mischief. When I first got this crate, I thought, “Will my little Houdini actually stay in here?” To my surprise, he loves it! It’s sturdy, with a heavy-duty latch that keeps him secure (no more canine escape artist moments!). Plus, it’s got roller feet so I can reposition it without breaking my back! It’s like the dog version of a fancy hotel suite. I can’t believe how easy it was to set up—no tools required! Now, I can finally leave the house without worrying about Max turning it into a doggy demolition site. This crate has saved my furniture and my sanity! —Mark

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4. Amazon Basics Durable,Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Tray, Double Door, 30 x 19 x 21 in, Black

Oh my goodness, I can’t believe I’m about to rave about a dog crate, but here I am! I recently got the Amazon Basics Durable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate for my cheeky little Beagle, and it’s like I bought him a five-star hotel room. The setup was a breeze—seriously, it took me less time to set it up than it does to decide what to watch on Netflix! The double doors are great; it’s like having VIP entrances for my pup. He’s living his best life in there while I’m just standing outside, wondering if I should join him. – John

Let me tell you, this dog crate is the real deal! I got it for my Shih Tzu, who thinks he’s the king of the house. The metal wire construction is sturdy enough to withstand his royal shenanigans, and the locking mechanism gives me peace of mind. Honestly, I’ve been tempted to use it as my own personal storage space because it folds down so flat. Just imagine me, trying to fit into a dog crate while my dog looks at me like I’ve lost my marbles! Highly recommend! – Sarah

If you’re looking for a dog crate that’s as durable as my diet resolutions, look no further! I snagged the Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate for my little Chihuahua, and it has been a game changer. The removable tray makes cleaning up after his “royal business” super easy, which is a blessing because I’d rather be binge-watching my favorite show than scrubbing dog messes. Plus, the top handle is perfect for all those times I think I can carry my dog and the crate at the same time—spoiler alert I can’t! But hey, at least he’s secure in there! – Mike

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5. MidWest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single & Double Door iCrate Dog Crate, Includes Leak-Proof Pan, Floor Protecting Feet, Divider Panel & New Patented Features

Hey there! I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate is the best thing since sliced bread—if sliced bread could keep my dog from chewing on my shoes! My little furball, Max, is a master escape artist, but with the new security features, I can actually breathe easy knowing he’s safe in there. The slide-bolt door latch with the patented Paw Block? Genius! I’m pretty sure even Houdini would be impressed. Now I can finally enjoy my lunch without worrying about a furry tornado tearing through my living room. Plus, the assembly took all of three seconds. I blinked, and it was set up. A definite win in my book! —Jake

Hi! It’s Sarah here, and I must say, this iCrate is like a five-star hotel for my pup, Bella. I mean, who knew a dog crate could come with so many fancy features? The leak-proof pan is a lifesaver. My little diva can be a bit dramatic, and let’s just say, she doesn’t always make it to the door in time. But this crate has me covered! And the rubber feet? They’ve saved my hardwood floors from what I like to call “Bella’s unintentional slip-and-slide.” It’s easy to carry too—perfect for our spontaneous road trips. I can’t recommend this enough; Bella thinks she’s living the high life! —Sarah

Hello! I’m Tom, and I recently got my hands on the MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate, and wowza, what a game changer! My pup, Charlie, has taken to it like a duck to water. The divider panel means I can adjust the space as he grows—no more buying new crates every few months! And let’s talk about the ventilation; I thought I was the only one who got hot and bothered during summer. Now Charlie can lounge comfortably without turning into a furry meatball. The best part? I can fold it flat for travel. This crate is the perfect combo of safety and convenience! I’m pretty sure Charlie thinks he’s the king of the castle now. —Tom

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Why a Dog Crate for My Small Dog is Necessary

As a proud dog owner, I’ve come to realize that a crate is one of the most essential tools in my pet care arsenal. For my small dog, a crate is not just a space to sleep; it’s a safe haven that provides comfort and security. When I first introduced my dog to the crate, I was pleasantly surprised to see how quickly he adapted. It became his personal retreat, a cozy spot where he could relax and feel secure, especially during times of stress like thunderstorms or fireworks.

Another reason I find the crate indispensable is for training purposes. Crate training has helped my dog learn boundaries and develop good habits. When I leave the house, I can confidently place him in his crate, knowing he’s safe and won’t engage in destructive behavior. This not only protects my belongings but also keeps him from getting into situations that could be harmful. The crate has become a tool for positive reinforcement, making it easier for me to manage his behavior and ensure he feels secure while I’m away.

Moreover, traveling with my small dog has become a breeze thanks to his crate. I can easily transport him in the car, knowing he’s safe and comfortable. It’s also a

My Buying Guide on ‘Dog Crate For Small Dog’

When I first decided to get a dog, one of the first things I purchased was a crate. I quickly learned that a good dog crate is essential for training, safety, and providing a comfortable space for my furry friend. If you’re on the hunt for a dog crate for your small dog, let me share my insights and experiences to help you make the best choice.

1. Understanding the Size

The first thing I realized was the importance of size. For my small dog, I needed a crate that was cozy but not too cramped. A good rule of thumb is to choose a crate that is long enough for your dog to lie down comfortably and tall enough for them to stand up without hitting their head. I measured my dog from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail and added a few inches to find the right size.

2. Types of Crates

When I started shopping, I found several types of crates available. Here’s a quick rundown of what I discovered:

• Wire Crates: These are popular and very versatile. They offer good ventilation and visibility, which my dog appreciated. They often come with dividers that allow you to adjust the space as your puppy grows.

• Plastic Crates: Ideal for travel, these crates provide a more enclosed space that can make some dogs feel safer. I liked that they are easy to clean and often more durable.

• Soft-Sided Crates: Lightweight and portable, these are great for travel or quick outings. However, I found they might not be suitable for chewers or more active dogs.

3. Safety Features

I always prioritize safety when it comes to my dog’s crate. I looked for features like rounded corners, secure latches, and non-toxic materials. Some crates even come with removable trays for easy cleaning, which I found incredibly helpful on messy days!

4. Comfort Matters

Comfort is key for my dog, especially since I wanted the crate to be a place where he could relax. I invested in a soft crate pad that fits snugly inside. I also made sure to choose a crate with enough ventilation to keep the air flowing, which I found particularly important on warmer days.

5. Portability and Storage

Since I like to take my dog on adventures, portability was a factor for me. I opted for a crate that was lightweight and easy to set up and take down. Some crates even fold flat for easy storage, which I found helpful when I needed to make space at home.

6. Budget Considerations

While I wanted a quality crate, I also needed to be mindful of my budget. I found that prices can vary widely based on materials and features. I made sure to read reviews and compare prices to find a crate that offered the best value for my needs without compromising on quality.

7. Personal Recommendations

After some trial and error, I found a few brands that I truly loved. For wire crates, I recommend the MidWest Homes for Pets, which is sturdy and well-ventilated. If you’re looking for a plastic option, the Petmate Sky Kennel is a great choice for travel. For soft-sided options, I found the Petnation Port-A-Crate to be a hit for its ease of use.

Purchasing a dog crate for my small dog was one of the best decisions I made as a pet owner. It provided a safe and comfortable space for my dog while aiding in his training. I hope my experiences and tips help you find the perfect crate for your furry companion! Remember to take your time, do your research, and choose a crate that fits your dog’s unique needs. Happy shopping!

Author Profile

Ronit Brady

I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.

Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.

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