The best dog crates for large dogs

When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn moreThe best crates for large dogs are sturdy and spacious enough to accommodate big breeds.Alicia Betz/Business InsiderWhile there are dozens of models to choose from, the best dog crates for large dogs are sturdy and appropriately sized for larger breeds. Large dogs are commonly classified as weighing more than 50 pounds and standing at least 24 inches tall, while giant breeds, such as Great Danes and Mastiffs, are much larger. Our top pick at a glance: The best large dog crate is the Midwest Life Stages Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate. It's exceptionally sturdy, features two doors for convenient access, and its wire construction provides excellent ventilation. A crate should always feel comfortable and secure for your dog, so sizing is not an area to compromise. Your dog needs enough space to stand up, turn around, and stretch out easily. When chosen correctly, a crate can serve several important purposes: It can aid in training, provide a safe and cozy retreat, and help prevent destructive behaviors like chewing by keeping your dog securely contained when needed.How we evaluated dog cratesTo identify the best options, I tested nine extra-large dog crates in various styles with my 110-pound German Shepherd. He was crate-trained as a puppy and still uses a crate today as a comfortable place to rest. I also consulted veterinary behaviorists and professional dog trainers to better understand which features matter most. Read more about how Insider Reviews tests and evaluates pet products.Our top picks for the best dog crates for large dogsBest overall: Midwest Life Stages Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate - See at ChewyBest budget: Frisco Heavy Duty Fold and Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate - See at ChewyBest plastic: Petmate Sky Kennel - See at ChewyBest soft-sided: DogGoods Do Good Foldable Travel Dog Crate - See at ChewyBest overallThe extra-large Midwest Life Stages Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate was the most durable wire crate I tested. It's also the top pick for the best dog crates, which were tested with smaller dogs. According to the manufacturer, the extra-large crate is ideal for dogs measuring 43 inches in length from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail and 26 inches tall from the top of their head to the floor. This size was a good fit for my German Shepherd, who is closer in size to a giant breed. He had enough space to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.The crate's hooks, which secure the panels together, fasten securely. While this made assembly a bit more involved than with some other models, it also meant the structure felt more rigid and resistant to bending. When I pressed against the panels from the inside, I couldn't create any noticeable gaps where a dog's paw or head could get caught.I also liked the two-door design, each equipped with two easy-to-secure latches. Nancy Field, a certified professional dog trainer and owner of Harmony Dog Training, says this setup allows for more flexible placement within your home. For example, you can position the crate lengthwise between two pieces of furniture and access the door on the wider panel. I also found it easy to slide across the floor, which is especially helpful when moving it between rooms or while cleaning.The Midwest Life Stages Double Door Collapsible Crate is the top choice for at-home use for large-breed dogs at any life stage.Alicia Betz/Business InsiderAs with any wire crate, I could hear some metal clanking when latching and unlatching the doors, but it wasn't excessive, and the door didn't squeak at all. Dr. Carlo Siracusa, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist and professor of clinical small animal behavior and welfare at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, says some dogs prefer wire crates because they can observe their environment from inside. For dogs that prefer to be a bit more enclosed, you can add a blanket or crate cover that still allows for air circulation.Because the extra-large crate folds down to just 3.25 inches for storage or transportation and has a divider, it is a truly versatile option that can last your dog's entire lifespan. The divider is essential when your dog is a puppy since they require a smaller crate interior during potty training.Best budgetFor an option similar to our top pick but a bit friendlier on the budget, I recommend the Frisco Heavy Duty Fold and Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate. It includes many of the same features, including two doors with double latches, a divider, and a slide-out plastic tray.This Frisco model is easier to assemble than the Midwest Life Stages crate because the latches that hold the panels together aren't quite as tight. The trade-off is slightly reduced sturdiness. For example, I was able to create a gap about an inch wide when pressing on the doors from th

Read More