Updated 2026small-breed guide

Best Dog Crate for Scottish Terrier

By Sarah Chen · Updated 2026

Scottish Terrier dog
Our #1 Pick for Scottish Terrier

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

Scottish Terrier at a Glance

Size

small

Weight

18-22 lbs

Energy

moderate

Coat

wiry double coat

Common Health Concerns

cancervon Willebrand diseasejoint problems

Why Dog Crates Matter for Your Scottish Terrier

I've spent years working with Scottish Terrier dogs -- first at the clinic in Portland, then through the shelter, and now testing products with my own two dogs at home. The Scottish Terrier is confident and independent, with a compact frame at 18-22 lbs and balanced energy. 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 Scottish Terrier works with their confident nature, and their calmer disposition means they usually take to crate training naturally. The crate needs to fit a full-grown Scottish Terrier (18-22 lbs) -- enough room to stand, turn, and stretch out. Even at their size, build quality matters for safety and longevity.

Small-Breed Sizing for Scottish Terrier (18-22 lbs)

Small dogs need 24-inch crates. Wire crates with dividers are economical for puppies. Soft-sided crates work for trained small dogs.

At 18-22 lbs, the Scottish Terrier is firmly in the small category, but their moderate 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 Scottish Terrier's Moderate-Energy Lifestyle

Most standard crates work well. Add a crate cover to create a den-like atmosphere for relaxation.

The Scottish Terrier's moderate energy gives you flexibility. They're active enough to need quality products but not so intense that everything needs to be bomb-proof. Focus on comfort, good materials, and features that match their balanced lifestyle. No need to over-engineer your purchase here.

Health Concerns That Affect Dog Crate Choice

The Scottish 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.

Joint Problems:

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 Scottish Terrier Buyer's Checklist

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

1

Size Appropriateness

The Scottish Terrier at 18-22 lbs needs products sized for their small frame. I only recommend options available in the correct size range -- "close enough" doesn't cut it.

2

Durability

The Scottish Terrier is gentle enough that extreme durability isn't the top priority, but quality construction still matters for longevity and safety.

3

Portability

I evaluate this factor specifically for Scottish Terrier dogs, accounting for their small size, moderate energy level, and wiry double coat.

4

Ventilation

I evaluate this factor specifically for Scottish Terrier dogs, accounting for their small size, moderate energy level, and wiry 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 Scottish Terrier Owners

Account for shedding.

The Scottish Terrier's wiry 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.

Work with their independence.

The Scottish Terrier has a famously independent streak. Products that require cooperation (dental care, harness fitting) need gradual introduction with positive reinforcement. I'd skip anything that demands instant compliance -- it won't end well.

Check the weight range, not just "small" labels.

At 18-22 lbs, your Scottish 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.

Read reviews from other Scottish Terrier owners.

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

Our Recommendations

Top 5 Picks for Scottish Terrier

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

Scottish Terrier dogs are known to be prone to cancer, von Willebrand disease, joint problems. 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.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best dog crate for a Scottish Terrier?

The best dog crate for a Scottish Terrier should account for their small size (18-22 lbs), moderate energy level, and confident, independent, spirited 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 Scottish Terrier?

Quality dog crates for Scottish 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 Scottish Terrier dogs?

Avoid generic, one-size-fits-all products that don't account for Scottish Terrier's specific small build and moderate energy needs. Always choose size-appropriate products.

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