Top 5 Dog Crates For Small Dogs: Best Picks Review

Does your tiny canine companion deserve a safe and cozy den of their own? Finding the perfect dog crate for a small dog can feel like a puzzle. You want a space that’s just right for their size, comfortable, and easy to use, but the sheer number of choices can be overwhelming. Many pet parents worry about picking a crate that’s too big, too small, or just not suitable for their little furry friend’s needs, leading to frustration and wasted money.

This guide is here to help! We’ll dive deep into what makes a great crate for small breeds, from the best materials to the essential features you should look for. You’ll learn how to avoid common mistakes and discover how the right crate can boost your dog’s confidence and make training a breeze. Get ready to find a haven for your little one that you’ll both love!

Top Dog Crates For Small Dogs Recommendations

No. 1

FDW | 24" Foldable Metal Dog Crate | Black | Cage for Small Dogs

🐕【Dog Crate Made of Durable Materials】: the dog crate Made of high Tensile-Strength wire gauge.The dog cage ideal for training and transporting well-behaved pets. Pet crate epoxy coating finish extends the life of the crate and provides resistance against rust, corrosion, and fading, even in the most extreme climates. Dog crate dog cage pet crate.
🐕【Designed to Safe and Comfortable】: The pet cage have two large doors, one on the front and one on the side, are easy to open, close.Heavy duty securely lock with dual latches, providing a safe and secure environment for your pet.The dog cage designed to keep animals safe and comfortable. Pet kennel wire dog crate animal cage.
🐕【Easy Assembly】: This dog cage does not require any tool assembly, dog cage can be deployed directly. It only takes a few minutes. The pet cage divider can separate two pets in two spaces.Dog crate pet cage dog cage with divider.
🐕【Easy to Clean】: the dog cage includes a durable leak-proof ABS Composite tray that will not stain, warp, corrode or retain pet odors. The pet cage bottom pan features an integrated Lip around the perimeter, to contain any mess from spilling outside the dog kennel. Dog cage with tray pet crate metal dog cage.
🐕【Folds Easy to Storage and Portable】: this pet cage with handle is ideal for travel.Fold-and-carry construction dog crate with collapsible design that folds into a package less than 3" Thick. Features a removable carrying handle that can be mounted on any side of the crate as needed. You can easily carry or storage This dog cage.Dog crate with handle metal dog cage dog kennel.

SaleNo. 2

MidWest Homes for Pets 18-Inch iCrate for Tiny Breeds, Up to 10 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latch, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble

IDEAL FOR UP TO 10 LB DOGS: Measures 18.5 x 12.5 x 14.5 inches - perfect for Maltese, Japanese Chin, Brussels Griffon & similar breeds. For dogs near 10 lbs, consider sizing up to our 22-inch model so they have plenty of room to get comfortable.
WE DON'T CUT CORNERS, WE PERFECT THEM: Precision welding, rounded corner clips & slide-bolt latch with Paw Block mitigate snags, cuts & escapes. With rigorous safety testing, iCrate provides peace of mind knowing your dog is safe while you're away.
DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Sturdy metal wire design with a protective black e-coat finish, the iCrate resists rust and everyday wear. Complete with leak-proof tray, rubber feet, carry handle, and tool-free assembly, it's ready for years of use.
SUPPORTS CRATE TRAINING: A divider panel lets the crate grow with your dog, from puppy kennel to full-size crate. Large openings and low thresholds ease the crate training process and help your dog feel more at home.
LIFE GOES BETTER WITH PETS: A family-owned business based in Indiana, MidWest Homes for Pets brings over 100 years of pet product expertise and a commitment to quality, rigorous safety testing, and excellent US-based customer service.

No. 3

MidWest Homes for Pets 30-Inch iCrate for Medium Breeds, 21-40 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latch, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble

IDEAL FOR 21-40 LB DOGS: Measures 30.5 x 19.25 x 21.5 inches - perfect for French Bulldogs, Welsh Terriers, Dachshunds & similar breeds. For dogs near 40 lbs, consider sizing up to our 36-inch model so they have plenty of room to get comfortable.
WE DON'T CUT CORNERS, WE PERFECT THEM: Precision welding, rounded corner clips & slide-bolt latch with Paw Block mitigate snags, cuts & escapes. With rigorous safety testing, iCrate provides peace of mind knowing your dog is safe while you're away.
DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Sturdy metal wire design with a protective black e-coat finish, the iCrate resists rust and everyday wear. Complete with leak-proof tray, rubber feet, carry handle, and tool-free assembly, it's ready for years of use.
SUPPORTS CRATE TRAINING: A divider panel lets the crate grow with your dog, from puppy kennel to full-size crate. Large openings and low thresholds ease the crate training process and help your dog feel more at home.
LIFE GOES BETTER WITH PETS: A family-owned business based in Indiana, MidWest Homes for Pets brings over 100 years of pet product expertise and a commitment to quality, rigorous safety testing, and excellent US-based customer service.

No. 4

MidWest Homes for Pets 24-Inch iCrate for Small Breeds, 12-20 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latch, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble

IDEAL FOR 12-20 LB DOGS: Measures 24.5 x 17.5 x 19.5 inches - perfect for Fox Terriers, Pugs, Chihuahuas & similar breeds. For dogs near 20 lbs, consider sizing up to our 30-inch model so they have plenty of room to get comfortable.
WE DON'T CUT CORNERS, WE PERFECT THEM: Precision welding, rounded corner clips & slide-bolt latch with Paw Block mitigate snags, cuts & escapes. With rigorous safety testing, iCrate provides peace of mind knowing your dog is safe while you're away.
DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Sturdy metal wire design with a protective black e-coat finish, the iCrate resists rust and everyday wear. Complete with leak-proof tray, rubber feet, carry handle, and tool-free assembly, it's ready for years of use.
SUPPORTS CRATE TRAINING: A divider panel lets the crate grow with your dog, from puppy kennel to full-size crate. Large openings and low thresholds ease the crate training process and help your dog feel more at home.
LIFE GOES BETTER WITH PETS: A family-owned business based in Indiana, MidWest Homes for Pets brings over 100 years of pet product expertise and a commitment to quality, rigorous safety testing, and excellent US-based customer service.

SaleNo. 5

Collapsible Dog Crate for Medium/Small Dogs - 28" L Foldable Dog Cage No-Tool Assembly, Travel Dog Crate with 2 Wheels - Easy to Carry, Space-Saving, Indoor Outdoor Use, 27.96"(L) X18.3(W) X20.87(H)

Easy to Assemble: The one-piece folding dog box furniture eliminates the need for complex assembly. You can create a comfortable haven for your pet set up and fold down the crate in seconds with no tools required. Enjoy a wonderful life with your furry good friend!
Space-Saving & Easy Mobility: This collapsible dog crate features a innovative foldable design, allowing it to be stored flat when not in use. Equipped with two smooth-rolling wheels and sturdy handles on both sides, this pet crate offers effortless mobility. Move your dog cage around the house or during travel with minimal effort
Safe & Reliable: Gardner Pet pet kennel Features squeeze-latch locks on the door for quick and secure closure. allowing your furry friends to stay safely inside while also being friendly to the fingers of pet guardians. These locks are easy for owners to operate but prevent clever dogs from opening them.Our curved corners help prevent squeezing and the sinking of the chin and claws, and the rounded corners eliminate sharp edges
Long-lasting Dog House: Composed of high-quality PE and strong metal wire, the indoor dog house is both functional and aesthetically pleasing for modern homes, providing your pet with a long-lasting, stable and safe resting place
Multi-functional Dog Cage furniture: Modern style, suitable for any home decoration, whether as a cozy indoor dog house, a travel crate for road trips, or a temporary containment space outdoors

SaleNo. 6

Siedihit Dog Cat Playpen, Puppy Pet Playpen Indoor for Small Dog Crate Tent Cage Outdoor, Portable Pop Up Dogs Enclosure Kennel with Carrying Case for Dogs/Cats/Rabbits(Grey, Small

【Safe quality material】The pet playpen is made of high-grade thick mesh and 600D waterproof polyester oxford with reinforced seams. Consists of 8 mesh side panels and a half mesh top, well ventilated. You can have a 360-degree view of your pet's condition, and you can also give your pet a panoramic view of its surroundings.
【Easy to use】The pet playpen on the side of this pet pen can be easily rolled up and pasted, making it easy for your pet to get in and out of the pet pen. Close the door and keep your pet safely inside. The detachable semi-mesh zipper top can be easily removed for indoor use and closed for outdoor use to provide shade. Make sure your pet is comfortable in any environment.
【No Assembly required】Opening the dog pen takes only a few seconds, is lightweight, strong, and does not require assembly. When not in use, it can be folded into the tote bag provided by us, which takes up minimal space and is easy to carry and store. Spacious interior Spaces allow your pet to play, sleep, hide or isolate. Perfect for indoors, lawns, beaches, parks, Tours, camping and more!
【Wide applicability】 This pet crate is suitable for cats, dogs, rabbits, ferrets, hamsters, chickens, pregnant pets, and pets in recovery. It also provides a safe and secure temporary isolation area, comprehensively meeting your pet's needs throughout different life stages.
【The dog pen tent is easy to clean】 simply wipe off any dirt or wash it with water, then let it air dry and continue to use. You can also put a blanket under the fence and wash it if it gets dirty.

SaleNo. 7

MidWest Homes for Pets 22-Inch iCrate for Extra-Small Breeds, Up to 15 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latch, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble

IDEAL FOR UP TO 15 LB DOGS: Measures 22.5 x 13.5 x 16 inches - perfect for Pomeranians, Papillons, Toy Fox Terriers & similar breeds. For dogs near 15 lbs, consider sizing up to our 24-inch model so they have plenty of room to get comfortable.
WE DON'T CUT CORNERS, WE PERFECT THEM: Precision welding, rounded corner clips & slide-bolt latch with Paw Block mitigate snags, cuts & escapes. With rigorous safety testing, iCrate provides peace of mind knowing your dog is safe while you're away.
DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Sturdy metal wire design with a protective black e-coat finish, the iCrate resists rust and everyday wear. Complete with leak-proof tray, rubber feet, carry handle, and tool-free assembly, it's ready for years of use.
SUPPORTS CRATE TRAINING: A divider panel lets the crate grow with your dog, from puppy kennel to full-size crate. Large openings and low thresholds ease the crate training process and help your dog feel more at home.
LIFE GOES BETTER WITH PETS: A family-owned business based in Indiana, MidWest Homes for Pets brings over 100 years of pet product expertise and a commitment to quality, rigorous safety testing, and excellent US-based customer service.

SaleNo. 8

ZOMISIA Collapsible Dog Crate for Dogs - 28" L Heavy Duty Dog Kennel No Tools Required with 4 Sides Steel Foldable Cage for Dogs Indoor Furniture, Portable Carrier with 2 Smooth Wheels, Beige

Space-Saving Foldable Design: This collapsible dog crate features a innovative foldable design, allowing it to be stored flat when not in use. Perfect for small apartments or homes with limited space, it ensures easy storage without sacrificing functionality.
Easy Mobility with Wheels & Handles: Equipped with two smooth-rolling wheels and sturdy handles on both sides, this pet crate offers effortless mobility. Ideal for repositioning in your living room, patio, or vehicle.
Durable & Escape-Proof Construction: Made from reinforced hard plastic and strong metal wire, this heavy-duty dog crate ensures maximum security. The robust design prevents escapes and provides a safe, den-like environment for your dog. It’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing for modern homes.
Secure & User-Friendly Lock Mechanism: Features squeeze-latch locks on the door for quick and secure closure. These locks are easy for owners to operate but prevent clever dogs from opening them. Set up and fold down the crate in seconds with no tools required.
Multi-Scenario Use: Designed for versatile use - whether as a cozy indoor dog house, a crate for road trips, or a temporary containment space outdoors. The 27.95"L x 18.9"W x 21.65"H crate fits comfortably in most mid-to-large SUV trunks, making it perfect for adventures and daily use alike.

Finding the Best Dog Crate for Your Small Pup

Choosing the right crate for your small dog is a big decision. A good crate offers a safe, comfortable den for your furry friend. It can help with potty training, prevent chewing, and provide a secure space when you’re away. This guide will help you pick the perfect crate.

Key Features to Look For

When you shop for a small dog crate, keep these important features in mind:

Size: This is the most crucial feature. Your dog needs enough room to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. A crate that’s too big might not help with potty training. Measure your dog from nose to tail and from the top of their head to the floor. Add a few inches to these measurements to get the ideal crate size.
Ventilation: Good airflow keeps your dog cool and comfortable. Look for crates with plenty of openings, like wire or barred sides.
Durability: Small dogs can be surprisingly strong chewers. The crate should be made from sturdy materials that can withstand some wear and tear.
Ease of Cleaning: Accidents happen! The crate should be easy to wipe down and sanitize. Removable trays are a big plus.
Portability/Storage: If you plan to travel with your dog or need to store the crate when not in use, look for a foldable or lightweight design.
Security: The door should latch securely to keep your dog safely inside.

Important Materials

The materials used in a dog crate affect its durability, safety, and ease of use.

Wire: Wire crates are very popular. They offer excellent ventilation and visibility. Many are foldable for easy storage. They are generally affordable.
Plastic: Plastic crates are often used for travel. They offer a more den-like feel, which some dogs prefer. They are lightweight and easy to clean. However, they can have less ventilation than wire crates.
Fabric: Soft-sided crates are best for older, calmer dogs or for use inside the house for comfort. They are lightweight and portable but not ideal for puppies or dogs who chew.
Wood: Wooden crates can look very nice in a home. They offer a cozy feel. However, they can be heavier and harder to clean than other options.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Several things can make a crate better or worse for your dog.

Sturdy Construction: A crate with strong welds and secure latches is high quality. This means it will last longer and keep your dog safer. A crate that feels flimsy or has loose parts is lower quality.
Non-Toxic Materials: Make sure the materials used are safe for your dog. Avoid crates with sharp edges or toxic paints.
Comfort Features: Some crates come with padded beds or dividers. These can improve the comfort and usability of the crate.
Ease of Assembly: A crate that is difficult to put together can be frustrating. High-quality crates assemble easily.

User Experience and Use Cases

Dog crates serve many purposes for small dogs.

Potty Training: A crate helps potty train puppies. Dogs naturally don’t want to soil their sleeping area. The crate limits their space, encouraging them to hold it until they go outside.
Safe Space: Many dogs see their crate as their own den. This private space makes them feel secure and calm, especially during thunderstorms or when visitors are over.
Travel: Crates are essential for safe travel. They keep your dog secure in the car and can be used in hotels or at friends’ houses.
Preventing Destructive Behavior: When left alone, some dogs chew or get into things they shouldn’t. A crate can prevent this damage.
Calming Anxious Dogs: For dogs with separation anxiety or general nervousness, a well-introduced crate can be a place of comfort and security.

Frequently Asked Questions About Small Dog Crates

Q: How do I know what size crate my small dog needs?

A: Measure your dog from nose to tail and from the top of their head to the floor. Add a few inches to these measurements. The crate should be tall enough for them to stand and long enough for them to lie down and turn around.

Q: Are wire crates good for small dogs?

A: Yes, wire crates are excellent for small dogs. They offer great ventilation and allow your dog to see out, which can make them feel less anxious. They are also easy to clean and often fold for storage.

Q: Should I get a plastic or wire crate for my puppy?

A: Both can work. Plastic crates offer a more den-like feel, which can be good for puppies learning to settle. Wire crates offer more visibility and better airflow. Many owners use a wire crate with a divider for puppies, adjusting the space as they grow.

Q: How long should my small dog be in a crate?

A: Puppies can be crated for short periods, roughly their age in months plus one hour (but no more than 4 hours at a time). Adult dogs can be crated for longer periods, but never more than 8-10 hours, and always with access to water and a potty break afterwards.

Q: Can a crate help with my dog’s anxiety?

A: Yes, a crate can help. When introduced correctly as a positive, safe space, it can be a calming den for anxious dogs. It’s important not to use the crate as punishment.

Q: What if my small dog hates the crate?

A: You need to introduce it slowly and positively. Start by feeding meals inside the crate with the door open. Gradually increase the time the door is closed. Never force your dog into the crate.

Q: How do I clean a dog crate?

A: Most wire and plastic crates can be cleaned with mild soap and water. For fabric crates, check the manufacturer’s instructions, as some are machine washable.

Q: Are soft-sided crates safe for small dogs?

A: Soft-sided crates are best for well-behaved, older dogs. They are not recommended for puppies or dogs who chew, as they can easily be damaged. They are good for comfort and portability.

Q: What is a divider for a dog crate?

A: A divider is a panel that fits inside a larger crate. It allows you to adjust the size of the crate. This is useful for puppies, as you can make the crate smaller to start and then move the divider as they grow, so they don’t have too much extra space.

Q: Should the crate be in my bedroom or living room?

A: For puppies and anxious dogs, keeping the crate in your bedroom can provide comfort and reassurance. As your dog becomes more settled, you can move it to a more central location like the living room.