Updated 2026large-breed guide

Best Dog Crate for Alaskan Malamute

By Sarah Chen · Updated 2026

Alaskan Malamute dog
Our #1 Pick for Alaskan Malamute

Diggs Revol Dog Crate (Small/Medium)

Beautifully designed crate that looks like furniture. Diamond mesh, puppy divider included, and ceiling hatch for top-loading.

$479.20 -- View on Amazon

Alaskan Malamute at a Glance

Size

large

Weight

75-100 lbs

Energy

very high

Coat

thick double coat

Common Health Concerns

hip dysplasiabloathypothyroidism

Why Dog Crates Matter for Your Alaskan Malamute

I've spent years working with Alaskan Malamute dogs -- first at the clinic in Portland, then through the shelter, and now testing products with my own two dogs at home. The Alaskan Malamute is affectionate and loyal, with a powerful frame at 75-100 lbs and tireless motor. Picking the wrong dog crate for this breed means wasted money and a frustrated dog (I've seen it happen more times than I can count). Here's what I've learned actually works.

Crate training a Alaskan Malamute works with their affectionate nature, though their high energy means the crate needs to feel like a den, not a prison (I've seen high-energy dogs panic in crates that feel too confining). The crate needs to fit a full-grown Alaskan Malamute (75-100 lbs) -- enough room to stand, turn, and stretch out. For this size, you're looking at a serious piece of equipment, and durability becomes a real concern. I've had shelter dogs bend wire crates in a single afternoon.

Large-Breed Sizing for Alaskan Malamute (75-100 lbs)

Large dogs need 42-48 inch crates. Double-door wire crates offer flexibility. Ensure the crate is tall enough for them to stand comfortably.

At 75-100 lbs, the Alaskan Malamute puts real demands on any dog crate you buy. Durability isn't a nice-to-have -- it's a requirement. Products built for medium dogs wear out fast under this kind of use (I learned this the hard way with Benny). Budget a bit more for products genuinely built for this weight class.

Matching Dog Crates to Your Alaskan Malamute's Very High-Energy Lifestyle

High-energy dogs need escape-proof crates with heavy-duty latches. Consider impact-resistant crates for extreme chewers.

The Alaskan Malamute is among the most energetic breeds out there (Maple is an Aussie, so I live this reality daily). Products need to withstand intense use, materials need to survive real wear and tear, and anything you buy should account for a dog who is always on the move. If a product review mentions it "didn't last," pay attention -- it probably wasn't designed for this activity level.

Health Concerns That Affect Dog Crate Choice

The Alaskan Malamute is predisposed to certain health conditions that should directly influence your dog crates choices. I saw these conditions constantly during my years at the clinic, and shopping with them in mind is one of the most impactful things you can do as an owner.

Hip Dysplasia:

Add a proper orthopedic crate mat to support joints during rest. Make sure the crate is large enough for easy position changes -- cramped sleeping positions make joint issues worse.

Bloat:

Bloat-prone breeds need careful attention to meal timing and post-meal activity. Factor this into your daily routine.

What to Look For: A Alaskan Malamute Buyer's Checklist

When I'm comparing dog crates for a Alaskan Malamute, these are the factors I weigh most heavily -- ranked by importance for this breed:

1

Size Appropriateness

The Alaskan Malamute at 75-100 lbs needs products sized for their large frame. I only recommend options available in the correct size range -- "close enough" doesn't cut it.

2

Durability

With the Alaskan Malamute's very-high energy, durability is non-negotiable. I eliminate anything that doesn't hold up to vigorous daily use -- if it can't survive Maple, it's not making my list.

3

Portability

I evaluate this factor specifically for Alaskan Malamute dogs, accounting for their large size, very-high energy level, and thick double coat.

4

Ventilation

I evaluate this factor specifically for Alaskan Malamute dogs, accounting for their large size, very-high energy level, and thick double coat.

5

Ease Of Cleaning

Practicality matters more than most people think. Double-coated breeds shed heavily, and easy-wash products will save your sanity. I prioritize machine-washable options.

Sarah's Tips for Alaskan Malamute Owners

Account for shedding.

The Alaskan Malamute's thick double coat sheds seasonally (and usually year-round -- Maple's fur is on everything I own). Any dog crate touching their body will collect fur. Choose products with removable, washable components.

Budget for replacement.

Even the best products wear out faster with a very-high-energy dog like the Alaskan Malamute. Factor replacement costs into your decision -- it's better to buy a solid mid-range product twice than a premium one that still wears out.

Read reviews from other Alaskan Malamute owners.

Generic reviews tell you about the product. Reviews from Alaskan Malamute owners tell you about the product *with your breed*. Filter Amazon reviews by searching "Alaskan Malamute" -- it's the closest thing to breed-specific testing data you'll find.

Our Recommendations

Top 5 Picks for Alaskan Malamute

1
Diggs Revol Dog Crate (Small/Medium)
Our PickEditor's Pick

Diggs Revol Dog Crate (Small/Medium)

Beautifully designed crate that looks like furniture. Diamond mesh, puppy divider included, and ceiling hatch for top-loading.

(327)
$479.20on Amazon
View on Amazon
2
MidWest iCrate (48-inch, XL)
Best Value

MidWest iCrate (48-inch, XL)

Full 48-inch crate for dogs up to 110 lbs. Same trusted design with double doors and divider panel.

(110,708)
$79.99on Amazon
View on Amazon
3
MidWest Folding Metal Exercise Pen

MidWest Folding Metal Exercise Pen

Portable 8-panel exercise pen that sets up in seconds. Perfect for hotel rooms and campsites. Folds flat for transport.

(22,533)
$43.99on Amazon
View on Amazon
4
Sherpa Original Deluxe Carrier

Sherpa Original Deluxe Carrier

Airline-approved carrier with mesh ventilation on all sides. Spring wire frame allows it to fit under most seats.

(8,426)
$44.48on Amazon
View on Amazon
5
MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Pan

MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Pan

The iCrate has been the go-to recommendation from trainers for years, and after testing it ourselves, we understand why. The double-door design gives you placement flexibility, the divider panel grows with your puppy, and the fold-flat design makes it genuinely portable.

(110,708)
$68.99on Amazon
View on Amazon

Health Considerations

Alaskan Malamute dogs are known to be prone to hip dysplasia, bloat, hypothyroidism. When choosing dog crates, keep these health concerns in mind. Joint support is particularly important for this breed, so look for products that provide orthopedic benefits or promote joint health.

Keep Exploring

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best dog crate for a Alaskan Malamute?

The best dog crate for a Alaskan Malamute should account for their large size (75-100 lbs), very-high energy level, and affectionate, loyal, playful temperament. We recommend checking our top picks above, which we have selected based on these breed-specific factors.

How much should I spend on dog crates for my Alaskan Malamute?

Quality dog crates for Alaskan Malamute dogs typically range from $15 to $80+ depending on the specific product. We recommend investing in quality products that will last, especially for larger breeds that are harder on products.

Are there specific dog crates to avoid for Alaskan Malamute dogs?

Avoid generic, one-size-fits-all products that don't account for Alaskan Malamute's specific large build and very-high energy needs. Always choose size-appropriate products.

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