Diggs Revol Dog Crate (Small/Medium)
Beautifully designed crate that looks like furniture. Diamond mesh, puppy divider included, and ceiling hatch for top-loading.
Rat Terrier at a Glance
Size
small
Weight
10-25 lbs
Energy
very high
Coat
short smooth coat
Common Health Concerns
Why Dog Crates Matter for Your Rat Terrier
I've spent years working with Rat Terrier dogs -- first at the clinic in Portland, then through the shelter, and now testing products with my own two dogs at home. The Rat Terrier is friendly and curious, with a compact frame at 10-25 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 Rat Terrier works with their friendly 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 Rat Terrier (10-25 lbs) -- enough room to stand, turn, and stretch out. Even at their size, build quality matters for safety and longevity.
Small-Breed Sizing for Rat Terrier (10-25 lbs)
Small dogs need 24-inch crates. Wire crates with dividers are economical for puppies. Soft-sided crates work for trained small dogs.
At 10-25 lbs, the Rat Terrier is firmly in the small category, but their very-high energy level means they punch above their weight when it comes to dog crates. Don't let the size fool you into grabbing the cheapest option -- quality matters just as much for small breeds, and poorly made products can pose choking or injury risks that larger dogs would shrug off.
Matching Dog Crates to Your Rat Terrier's Very High-Energy Lifestyle
High-energy dogs need escape-proof crates with heavy-duty latches. Consider impact-resistant crates for extreme chewers.
The Rat Terrier 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 Rat Terrier 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.
What to Look For: A Rat Terrier Buyer's Checklist
When I'm comparing dog crates for a Rat Terrier, these are the factors I weigh most heavily -- ranked by importance for this breed:
Size Appropriateness
The Rat Terrier at 10-25 lbs needs products sized for their small frame. I only recommend options available in the correct size range -- "close enough" doesn't cut it.
Durability
With the Rat Terrier'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.
Portability
I evaluate this factor specifically for Rat Terrier dogs, accounting for their small size, very-high energy level, and short smooth coat.
Ventilation
I evaluate this factor specifically for Rat Terrier dogs, accounting for their small size, very-high energy level, and short smooth coat.
Ease Of Cleaning
Practicality matters more than most people think. Regular cleaning keeps products hygienic and extends their life. I prioritize machine-washable options.
Sarah's Tips for Rat Terrier Owners
Check the weight range, not just "small" labels.
At 10-25 lbs, your Rat Terrier may fall at the edge of size ranges. When in doubt, size down -- an oversized product is usually worse than slightly snug for small breeds.
Budget for replacement.
Even the best products wear out faster with a very-high-energy dog like the Rat Terrier. 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 Rat Terrier owners.
Generic reviews tell you about the product. Reviews from Rat Terrier owners tell you about the product *with your breed*. Filter Amazon reviews by searching "Rat Terrier" -- it's the closest thing to breed-specific testing data you'll find.
Our Recommendations
Top 5 Picks for Rat Terrier
5 products reviewed
Diggs Revol Dog Crate (Small/Medium)
Beautifully designed crate that looks like furniture. Diamond mesh, puppy divider included, and ceiling hatch for top-loading.
MidWest iCrate (48-inch, XL)
Full 48-inch crate for dogs up to 110 lbs. Same trusted design with double doors and divider panel.
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.
Sherpa Original Deluxe Carrier
Airline-approved carrier with mesh ventilation on all sides. Spring wire frame allows it to fit under most seats.
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.
Health Considerations
Rat Terrier dogs are known to be prone to luxating patella, heart problems, hip dysplasia. 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
More Guides for Rat Terrier
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best dog crate for a Rat Terrier?
The best dog crate for a Rat Terrier should account for their small size (10-25 lbs), very-high energy level, and friendly, curious, lovable 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 Rat Terrier?
Quality dog crates for Rat Terrier dogs typically range from $15 to $80+ depending on the specific product. We recommend investing in quality products that will last, especially for your dog's specific needs.
Are there specific dog crates to avoid for Rat Terrier dogs?
Avoid generic, one-size-fits-all products that don't account for Rat Terrier's specific small build and very-high energy needs. Always choose size-appropriate products.
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