Best Dog Crates by Size (XS-XL): 2025 Buyer’s Guide
Choosing the right crate size can make all the difference in your dog’s comfort, behavior, and safety. If you want a durable, long-lasting crate for most dogs, go with the MidWest Ultima Pro — it’s heavy-duty, size-inclusive, and recommended across the board. This guide walks you through top crates for every size category, tips for choosing the right one, and the best picks by crate type and purpose.
🏆 Top Picks at a Glance
Best Overall (All Sizes): MidWest Ultima Pro – Durable wire crate with double doors and multiple sizes
Best Premium: Diggs Revol – Sleek, safe, and collapsible design with top-tier materials
Best Travel Crate: Petmate Sky Kennel – IATA-approved for international and domestic travel
Best for Escape Artists: Impact High Anxiety Crate – Aircraft-grade aluminum, virtually unbreakable
Best Soft-Sided: EliteField 3-Door Soft Crate – Lightweight and portable, ideal for on-the-go
Best Furniture-Style: Fable Signature Crate – Beautiful bentwood design that doubles as furniture
Quick Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Sizes | Standout Feature | Cleaning | See Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MidWest Ultima Pro | All sizes, durability | 24–48” | Heavy-duty wire & double doors | Removable tray | See price |
| Diggs Revol | Premium look & safety | Small–Medium | Collapsible with safety mesh | Smooth surfaces | See price |
| Petmate Sky Kennel | Airline travel | 21–48” | IATA-compliant + travel kit | Hose-washable plastic | See price |
| Impact High Anxiety Crate | Escape-prone dogs | 30–48” | Reinforced aluminum & latches | Wipe clean | See price |
| EliteField Soft Crate | Portable use | 20–42” | 3 access doors + pockets | Machine-washable cover | See price |
| Fable Signature Crate | Style-conscious homes | S–L | Modern bentwood with hidden gate | Wipe clean | See price |
📏 How to Choose the Right Crate Size
- Proper fit — Your dog should stand, turn, and lie down comfortably
- Ventilation — At least 3 sides should have airflow
- Durability — Choose heavy-duty for chewers or escape artists
- Purpose — Travel crates differ from home crates
- Materials — Wire for training, plastic for travel, soft for light use
📊 Detailed Reviews
MidWest Ultima Pro — Best Overall Crate
Available in all standard sizes (XS to XL), the MidWest Ultima Pro is our top pick thanks to its durable steel construction and smart design. The dual doors and tight wire spacing make it safe and escape-resistant, while the foldable design adds convenience.
Pros
- Heavy-duty steel
- Double-door access
- Removable tray
- 5 size options
Cons
- Not ideal for travel
- A bit heavier than basic crates
Verdict: Best all-around crate for durability, flexibility, and sizing range.
See Current Price
Diggs Revol — Best Premium Crate
If you want something sleek, safe, and stylish, the Diggs Revol is worth the investment. It features a diamond mesh to prevent paw injuries, smooth edges, and collapses like a suitcase. Ideal for design-conscious dog parents or anxious puppies.
Pros
- Top-notch safety features
- Collapsible design
- Modern aesthetic
- Smooth edges
Cons
- Expensive
- Limited to smaller sizes
Verdict: Best for those who want function + form in a compact crate.
See Premium Crate
Petmate Sky Kennel — Best Travel Crate
This is the go-to crate for domestic and international air travel. The Petmate Sky Kennel meets IATA requirements and includes food/water bowls, stickers, and tie-down holes. Made from recycled materials, it’s tough and eco-friendly.
Pros
- Airline-approved
- Sturdy construction
- Includes travel kit
Cons
- Not collapsible
- Heavier than wire crates
Verdict: Best crate for frequent flyers and airline rules.
Check Flight-Ready Option
Impact High Anxiety Crate — Best for Escape Artists
This crate is built like a tank. Made from aircraft-grade aluminum and fitted with multiple locks, it’s made specifically for dogs with severe anxiety or Houdini-level escape skills. Bonus: it comes with a lifetime damage warranty.
Pros
- Virtually escape-proof
- Reinforced locks
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Very expensive
- Heavier to move
Verdict: Best for safety if your dog is a serious escape artist.
See Escape-Proof Crate
EliteField 3-Door Soft Crate — Best Soft-Sided Crate
This lightweight fabric crate is great for car travel, indoor lounging, and temporary setups. With mesh doors on three sides, it’s easy to access and well-ventilated. It even has storage pockets and comes in fun colors.
Pros
- 3-door access
- Lightweight
- Folds flat
- Storage pockets
Cons
- Not chew-proof
- Less stable than metal
Verdict: Best portable crate for calm, travel-ready dogs.
View Portable Option
Fable Signature Crate — Best Furniture-Style Crate
If you want a crate that complements your living room, the Fable Signature Crate delivers. It’s made of bentwood with a slide-in gate and doubles as a side table. It’s beautiful, secure, and designed to be on display.
Pros
- Stylish design
- Doubles as furniture
- Smooth interior
Cons
- Pricey
- Not ideal for large or destructive dogs
Verdict: Best stylish crate that doesn’t sacrifice function.
See Modern Crate
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How do I measure my dog for a crate?
Measure from nose to tail and floor to head, then add 3–5 inches in length and height.
Can I use one crate for my puppy and adult dog?
Yes — use a full-size crate with a divider panel so it grows with your puppy.
Is a wire or plastic crate better?
Wire crates are better for home use and ventilation; plastic is best for travel or shy dogs.
Should I leave water in the crate?
Only for long durations or warm environments. Otherwise, offer water outside crate time.
Can dogs sleep in crates overnight?
Yes — as long as the crate is comfortable, well-sized, and introduced positively.
📝 Final Thoughts
The right crate depends on your dog’s size, personality, and your lifestyle. For an all-around winner that fits most dogs and homes, we recommend the MidWest Ultima Pro. If you’re flying or dealing with an escape artist, opt for the Petmate Sky Kennel or Impact High Anxiety Crate. Design-focused buyers will love the Fable Signature Crate.
Always size the crate carefully, introduce it slowly, and make it a safe space your dog can truly enjoy.
