Contrary to popular belief that putting your puppy in a crate is an act of “imprisonment,” it provides them many benefits – especially during their early years of training, like potty training. To help you choose the best crate for puppy training, we prepared a list of the best training crates for puppies!
Furthermore, this article will also guide you in choosing the best dog crates for puppies and why they need one!
11 Best Training Crates For Puppies
Are you overwhelmed with the wide variety of training crates available? Then, check this list of the best crates for puppy training!
1. iCrate Dog Crate Starter Kit
The MidWest Homes For Pets dog crate got the highest Amazon rating with 4.8! This product applies to all puppy sizes. In addition, it is the best fit for first-time pet owners because it is easy to assemble and comes together with everything you need. It has a polyester crate cover, a fleece pet bed, and a dog bowl holder.
But, the same with other previously mentioned crates, the issue with this product is its durability. According to several reviews, it either comes with bent parts or bends easily after a few days or weeks. Moreover, some models have unfurnished edges that create a sharp texture.
Pros
- Best for first-time pet owners
- Comes with a fleece pet bed, crate cover, and dog bowl holder
- Applicable for all puppy sizes
- Easy to clean and assemble
Cons
- Durability problems
- Sharp edges
2. MidWest Life Stages Double Door Puppy Crate
This first durable dog crate from MidWest Homes For Pets is complete with all features you need for a safe, secure, and convenient puppy crate. It has a divider panel that allows you to adjust the space of the crate’s living area. Moreover, it’s also convenient for pet owners because of its easy-to-clean plastic leak-proof pan. It’s also available in different measurements, making it applicable for all puppy sizes.
However, although its divider allows you to adjust the space depending on your preference and puppy size, several pet owners complained about its danger. Some dividers arrive with slightly rough and sharp edges that can cause potential harm to your puppy.
Pros
- Made of strong and durable materials
- Suitable for potty training
- It can be adjusted
- Easy to assemble and portable
Cons
- Can have unfurnished edges that are dangerous to your puppy
- Some models arrive with bent parts
3. Petmate Two-Door Small Dog Kennel
This Petmate Dog Kennel is designed for small dogs and cats. Its unique characteristic is it has multiple doors and ventilations, providing easy access and good airflow. Furthermore, similar to the first Petmate product, this dog kennel is fit for traveling and is an airline cargo-approved crate.
The problem with this product is related to its shipping and packaging. Several buyers complained about missing parts or materials for their crates. Aside from that, there are models where the door does not align with its designated holes. Therefore, the door doesn’t close properly – which is dangerous when used outside.
Pros
- It is specially made for small dogs
- Multiple doors and ventilations
- Made with durable and sturdy materials
- Easy to clean and assemble
Cons
- Missing parts
- Door lock problems
4. MidWest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Puppy Crate
This other MidWest Homes For Pet dog crate, similar to the other MidWest product, comes with a divider that allows you to adjust the crate’s living area depending on your dog’s size or preference. Additionally, this two-door crate comes with a slide bolt latch, paw block, locking tip, leak-proof pan, rounded corners, protective ground, and rounded side clips. It is also available in different sizes.
However, only the corners of this crate are rounded. Thus, the end wires of this crate are still a potential cause of harm or injuries because of their sharp edges. Furthermore, the materials used are not the most durable and sturdy. Several dogs, even puppies, were reported to open and break the lock easily.
Pros
- It allows you to adjust the crate’s living area space
- Portable and easy to assemble
- Easy to clean with a leak-proof pan
- Have a wide variety of sizes
Cons
- End wires are not rounded
- Not-so sturdy materials
5. Diggs Revol Small Dog Crate
Diggs Revol Dog Crate is perfect for puppies! It has an easy-to-clean tray that is appropriate for still potty training dogs. In addition, it is also crafted with high-quality materials such as aluminum, steel mesh wire, and reinforced plastic. And lastly, this Diggs crate is very portable and easy to assemble and store.
However, this crate can be too expensive for your preference. If you’re on a strict budget, this product might not be your best choice. Moreover, this product can also be too heavy. It can be a hassle moving it from one place to another.
Pros
- Best fit for puppies
- Easy to clean and assemble
- It is made with premium materials like aluminium and steel
- Travel-friendly
Cons
- It can be expensive
- It can be too heavy to move from one place to another
6. PET MAGASIN Hard Cover Collapsible Pet Carrier
The PET MAGASIN Pet Travel Kennel is another crate fit for pet owners who often travel with their dogs. With that, this crate has a sturdy cover and base to ensure your pet’s protection and security while traveling. Meanwhile, it has soft sides so that you can easily fold it for storage, and your pet can stay comfortable! Aside from those, this PET MAGASIN product is extremely breathable and made with premium materials.
On the other hand, many buyers complained that the crate was hard to assemble. Moreover, the product’s bottom zipper also opens easily. Therefore, it is dangerous if you’re outside and it suddenly bursts open.
Pros
- Sturdy cover and base for 100% security
- Easy to store because of its soft sides
- Made with premium materials
- It has good air ventilation
Cons
- It can be hard to assemble
- The bottom zipper opens easily
7. AmazonBasics Premium Folding Portable Soft Pet Crate
This soft pet crate directly from Amazon fits best for small dogs. Because of its material, this product can be assembled and collapsed down easily. Another plus point for this product is it comes with pockets that allow you to store treats for your puppies. It can serve as their reward treat after training. It also has a well-ventilated and screened panel that allows your puppies to see you.
However this product is made with premium polyester and PVC, but it is still not that durable, especially for teething puppies or heavy chewers. In addition, the zipper looks to be more prone to damage compared to its other parts.
Pros
- Easy to carry because it is lightweight
- It comes with pockets for treats and toys
- It has a fleece-covered pet bed to ensure 100% comfort
Cons
- Not that durable
- Not the best choice for heavy chewers
8. Petmate Ultra Vari Small Dog Kennel
Petmate’s Ultra Vari Dog Kennel is known for its portability. With that, this crate adheres to all airline cargo requirements. So, if you are fond of traveling, this product should be on your top list. Aside from that, it also has good airflow and ventilation. Thus, avoiding any possible suffocation and panic attacks on your dog.
On the downside, it seems like this crate’s door and lock system is not the most durable. Many buyers stated that the door gets broken easily – and sometimes already arrives in poor condition. Moreover, this crate might not also be the best if you have an aggressive puppy. The materials used are not heavy-duty and can get chewed easily.
Pros
- Best for traveling
- Comfortable
- It has good air ventilation
- Applicable for all puppy sizes
Cons
- Several complaints about durability (Not heavy duty)
- Poor door and lock quality
9. Petnation Indoor/Outdoor Pet Home
The Petnation Indoor/Outdoor Pet Home is a crate perfect for trailing and short trips. It is extremely lightweight and portable, which makes it travel-friendly. Aside from that, it has a mesh fabric that allows your dog to see you while they’re inside the crates. This feature is helpful if your puppy has separation anxiety. And lastly, you won’t need any tools while setting this crate up.
But, this product seems to be more applicable for already crate-trained dogs. In addition, because of its material, this crate can be torn down easily by aggressive puppies. Plus, it can also be too hard to clean.
Pros
- Perfect for traveling and short trips
- Easy to carry and assemble
- Unique design
Cons
- It can be easily torn down
- More suitable for already crate-trained dogs
10. Merry Pet 2-in-1 Configurable Pet Crate and Gate
A kennel and an adjustable gate are both functions of this Merry Pet crate, which is made of high-quality wood. You may alter the four panels depending on your preferences in its gate mode. Meanwhile, the kennel mode offers your dogs a secure place and den.
However, even if they made their structure out of high-quality wood, teething puppies or heavy chewers can still damage the crate. With that, this crate might not be as durable as other crates made of steel or aluminum.
Pros
- Multi-functional design: Gate and Kennel mode
- Less hassle to clean because of its removable plastic tray
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Wood is still prone to damage
- It can be destroyed easily by aggressive puppies or heavy chewers
11. SmithBuilt Medium Heavy-Duty Dog Cage
This heavy-duty dog crate from SmithBuilt is proud of its premium quality materials that ensure your dog’s safety and comfort. The product’s unique feature is it comes with wheels that make it easier for pet owners to transfer it from one room to another. Plus, because of its removable tray, pet owners will not have any hassles with cleaning it.
On the other hand, despite its claims of being a “heavy-duty” crate, many buyers complained about its poor quality and that they couldn’t withhold their dogs inside the crate. With that, this product is not the best choice for training puppies with separation anxiety.
Pros
- Easy to transfer from one room to another
- Rust and corrosion resistant
- Easy to clean
- Comes with a two-door feature
Cons
- Materials are not heavy-duty
- Not the best for puppies with separation anxiety
Why Do Puppies Need Crate Training
As we mentioned earlier, crates are not a form of imprisonment. It even provides benefits for puppies. Some of those benefits are:
- Crate-trained dogs can go to their crates or dens during stressful situations (like loud noises, crowded rooms, and new environments) to stay relaxed and comfortable. It serves as a safe space for them.
- According to a study from Brown University, crate training your dog while they are still puppies is easier than when they’re already adults. But, you can still crate train an adult dog – it might just take a longer time.
- Crate training is also beneficial for traveling. Puppies that are not crate-trained can experience severe stress and anxiety while traveling or being inside a car.
However, if crating is not done properly, it can also cause problems. Some of those problems are:
- Anxiety and depression: Crating your puppies for a long time can do more harm than good. It can cause them mental health problems like anxiety and depression.
- Choking hazards: Never put a collar or leash on your dog while in the crate because it might suffocate them. Plus, crates made with poor-quality materials can also cause choking.
- Reversed effect: If you use crates as a form of dog punishment, your dog might develop a strong fear or anxiety towards crating instead of seeing it as their safe space.
With the problems mentioned above, it is essential to conduct crate training properly. And one of the ways you can achieve that is by first choosing the right crate for your puppy.
How to Choose the Right Crate For Your Puppy
Choosing a crate for your puppy is not a simple job. You must consider several factors to ensure you’ll buy the best crate for your puppy. With that, here are the following things you should look for in buying one:
Size
When it comes to crate sizes, always base them on your dog’s size. A good crate size should allow your dog to lay down, stand up, and turn around without hitting the crate’s top and sides.
Comfort
Of course, our top priority should be our puppy’s comfort. With that, ensure that the crate you choose feels comfortable enough for your puppy. A comfortable crate is well-ventilated (providing enough air for your puppy), not entirely close (depends on your puppy’s preference since some like a wolf-like den), and fully furnished (crates with sharp edges are both dangerous and uncomfortable for your puppy).
You can also make your dog crate more comfortable by placing it in a nice area (quiet and has good lighting), adding your puppy’s favorite toys, and putting on comfortable bedding.
Durability
A sturdy and durable dog crate has a lot of benefits. It can prevent injuries caused by flimsy kennels, like cuts from bent cage wires and choking from destroyed crates. Moreover, it can also stop your puppy from escaping its crate, especially when you’re outside the house. And lastly, it can save you money.
Material
You should also check the materials used in the crate. Crates made of wood are not advisable, especially for teething puppies. Even though it’s a high-quality wood, it is still prone to damage. In addition, if you buy a crate made of plastic, double-check whether the plastic used does not have any harmful chemicals.
Construction
Related to durability, a well-constructed crate prevents any unwanted incidents from happening. Some of these accidents are cuts, choking, and escaping.
Portability
Vacations with your dog or short trips to the vet are better if your puppy is in the crate they like. Therefore, you should choose a kennel that can be easily transported so you can bring and use it if needed. Also, if you’ll need to ride an airplane or a cruise, look for crates that meet a cargo’s specific requirements.
Ease of Cleaning
If your puppy is still not potty trained, finding a crate that is easy to clean will save you a lot of work. Easy-to-clean crates have a removable pan tray that you can detach from the crate easily.
Best Puppy Crates For Training: FAQs
Do you still have questions about the best puppy crates for training? Worry less, as here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about that subject:
Yes, crates are good for puppy training! Crates can serve as their den where they can rest and relax after a day of training or playing. Plus, a well-made crate can also improve your dog’s mental and physical health – allowing them to follow and understand commands easily. But if you’re really worried, some alternatives to crate training exist.
The right size of your puppy’s training crate depends on its size. According to Nicole Ellis, a pet trainer, the basic rule of thumb is that your puppy should be able to stand up, turn around, and lay down on its crate without hitting its top or sides.
No, an 8-week-old puppy shouldn’t stay in a crate for a night. According to the Humane Society Org, 6-week-old puppies should not stay in a crate for more than four hours. Crating them for the whole night can disrupt their physical and social development because they will have lesser interactions.
As previously mentioned, you should not crate your puppy for a long time – especially for the whole night. Too much time in the crate results in your dog lacking their needed physical exercises and social interactions. Thus, it can cause both mental and physical health problems.
Dogs of all ages can still crate. There is no specific age that pet owners should stop crating their dogs since it can serve as their safe space. However, you can already stop close crating (locking the crate) your puppies once they turn two years old.
In conclusion, crates are not a form of “imprisonment” for puppies. In fact, it offers several benefits for them. So, you should really consider buying a crate for your puppy! And in doing so, don’t also forget to consider the crate’s size, comfort, durability, material, construction, ease of cleaning, and portability because these are the factors you need in looking for the best crate for puppy training.