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Why Trust Our Crate Reviews?
We don't just read spec sheets. Our team tested 12 of the top-selling dog crates over 3 months with dogs ranging from a 10-pound Dachshund to an 85-pound German Shepherd. We evaluated each crate on durability, ease of setup, security, and — most importantly — whether the dogs actually liked being in them.
Our Top 5 Picks
1. MidWest iCrate (Best Overall)
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.
Buy the MidWest iCrate on Amazon ($47.99)
Pros:
- Excellent value for money
- Divider panel included for growing puppies
- Folds flat for travel and storage
- Two door options (front and side)
Cons:
- Not suitable for heavy chewers or escape artists
- Plastic pan can slide around on hard floors
Our verdict: If you have a puppy or a well-adjusted adult dog, this is the crate to buy. Period.
2. Diggs Revol (Best Premium)
The Revol is what happens when a baby gear company designs a dog crate. It's beautifully engineered with a diamond-pattern mesh that's significantly stronger than standard wire crates, plus a built-in ceiling hatch for top-loading your pup.
Pros:
- Stunning design that looks good in your home
- Diamond mesh is nearly indestructible
- Ceiling hatch for easy top-loading
- Puppy divider included
Cons:
- Expensive ($200-$400 depending on size)
- Heavier than standard wire crates
Our verdict: If you have the budget and want a crate that doesn't look like a crate, the Revol is exceptional.
3. Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel (Best for Travel)
When you need an airline-approved, crash-tested travel crate, the Vari Kennel is the industry standard. It's the crate that professional dog transporters use, and that credibility matters when you're putting your dog on a plane.
Buy the Petmate Vari Kennel on Amazon
Pros:
- Airline approved for most carriers
- Extremely durable plastic shell
- Ventilation on all sides
- Easy to disassemble for cleaning
Cons:
- Not ideal for everyday home use
- Limited visibility for anxious dogs
Our verdict: The only crate we'd recommend for air travel.
4. Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Crate (Best Budget)
Let's be honest — not everyone needs a premium crate. The Amazon Basics crate does exactly what it says: it's a solid metal crate that folds flat, includes a divider, and costs about 30% less than the iCrate.
Buy the Amazon Basics Crate on Amazon
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Includes divider panel
- Adequate for most puppies and calm adult dogs
Cons:
- Slightly flimsier construction
- Pan quality is noticeably cheaper
- No side door option
Our verdict: A perfectly good option if you're on a tight budget, but spend the extra $15 for the iCrate if you can.
5. Impact High Anxiety Crate (Best for Escape Artists)
Some dogs are Houdini-level escape artists, and standard wire crates simply can't contain them. The Impact crate is built from aluminum with reinforced latches and rounded corners — it's essentially the bank vault of dog crates.
Buy the Impact Crate on Amazon
Pros:
- Virtually escape-proof
- Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Safe rounded corners (no injury risk)
- Excellent ventilation
Cons:
- Very expensive ($400+)
- Heavy
- Overkill for most dogs
Our verdict: If your dog has broken out of other crates, this is the answer. It's expensive, but it's also the last crate you'll ever buy.
The Bottom Line
For 90% of dog owners, the MidWest iCrate is the right choice. It's affordable, well-designed, and trainer-approved. If your budget allows, the Diggs Revol is a genuine upgrade that you won't regret. And if you have a dog with serious separation anxiety or escape tendencies, skip straight to the Impact crate — cheaper options will just end up costing you more in replacements.