Looking for a New Dog? These Big Breeds Could Make Great Pets
Top 8 Best Dog Kennels For Large Breeds In 2023 - Straight.com
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Owning a dog kennel is crucial for every dog owner. It offers a safe space for your canine companion to rest and snooze, particularly when you're away. However, the abundance of choices out there may make the selection process quite daunting. In this article, we'll delve into the top-rated dog kennels in the market.
When it comes to dog kennels, there are a few critical factors to consider. Firstly, the size of the kennel is essential. You need to ensure that your dog has enough space to move around comfortably. Secondly, the material of the kennel is crucial. You want something that is durable and can withstand the elements. Lastly, the ease of assembly is also something to consider.
After researching and testing various dog kennels, we've narrowed down the top ten options for you. We'll be discussing the features of each kennel, including the size, material, and ease of assembly. By the end of this article, you'll have a better understanding of which dog kennel is the best fit for you and your furry friend.
Best Dog KennelsAs dog owners, we know how important it is to provide our furry friends with a safe and comfortable space to rest and relax. That's why we've researched and tested the best dog kennels on the market to help you find the perfect one for your pup. From sturdy wire crates to cozy plastic options, we've got you covered. Check out our top picks below.
1. SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate – Medium, GrayIf you're looking for a durable and easy-to-assemble kennel for your furry friend, the SportPet Designs Plastic Kennel is a great option.
Pros
Cons
We recently purchased this kennel for our dog and were impressed by its sturdiness and durability. It was easy to assemble and the locking snaps and metal hardware provided peace of mind that our dog would be safe during travel. The metal slats also prevented our dog from chewing his way out of the kennel, which was a huge relief. The kennel was a bit heavy to carry around, but the wheels made it easy to maneuver. Overall, we highly recommend the SportPet Designs Plastic Kennel for pet parents who are looking for a reliable and secure kennel for their furry friend.
2. SFTORMAS Heavy Duty Dog CrateWe highly recommend the SFTORMAS Heavy Duty Dog Crate for those looking for a durable and secure kennel for their furry friend.
Pros
Cons
Our experience with the SFTORMAS Heavy Duty Dog Crate has been very positive. The upgraded heavy-duty design is truly impressive and can withstand even the most aggressive chewers. The spacious interior is perfect for large dogs and allows them to move around with ease. The upgraded door lock system is also very secure and ensures that your dog stays safely inside the crate.
However, the assembly instructions can be a bit confusing and may take some time to figure out. Additionally, the cage may arrive with some scratches or dents due to shipping, but this does not affect its functionality. Lastly, the cage is quite heavy and may be difficult to move around, especially for those with back problems.
Overall, we highly recommend the SFTORMAS Heavy Duty Dog Crate for those in need of a durable and secure kennel for their furry friend.
3. FDW Dog Crate Dog Cage Pet Crate for Large Dogs Folding Metal Pet Cage Double Door W/Divider Panel Indoor Outdoor Dog Kennel Leak-Proof Plastic Tray Wire Animal Cage (Black, 48 Inch) Black 48 InchIf you're looking for a durable and easy-to-assemble dog crate, the FDW Dog Crate is a great option.
Pros
Cons
We recently purchased the FDW Dog Crate for our large dog, and we have been very pleased with its durability and ease of use. The wire gauge and electro-coat finish make the crate resistant to rust, corrosion, and fading, even in extreme climates. The two large doors and heavy-duty dual latches provide a safe and secure environment for our pet, and the leak-proof ABS composite tray is easy to clean and maintain.
One thing to keep in mind is that the crate may not be suitable for dogs that are prone to chewing or scratching. Additionally, the crate is not collapsible, so it may be difficult to store if you have limited space. Finally, the crate may be too large for smaller living spaces, so be sure to measure your space before purchasing.
Overall, we highly recommend the FDW Dog Crate for its durability, ease of use, and overall value.
4. BestPet Dog CrateIf you're looking for a spacious and secure dog crate, the BestPet Dog Crate is a great option to consider.
Pros
Cons
We recently purchased the BestPet Dog Crate for our large dog and have been pleased with its performance. The rounded corners provide added safety for our pet and the two large doors make it easy to access from multiple angles. The setup was a breeze and we were able to fold it up quickly for storage when not in use. The leak-proof tray has been a lifesaver for easy cleaning and maintenance.
While the wire gauge may be smaller than some other brands, we haven't had any issues with it being too flimsy for our dog. However, the single door can get stuck when locking or unlocking, which can be frustrating at times. Additionally, the plastic tray may crack or warp over time with frequent use.
Overall, we would recommend the BestPet Dog Crate for its spacious design, ease of use, and secure features.
5. Lucky Kennel IntermediateWe highly recommend the Lucky Kennel Intermediate for pet owners who prioritize safety and durability when it comes to their furry friends.
Pros
Cons
We were impressed with the Lucky Kennel Intermediate's durability and strength. The corner locking pins and locking paddle latch also provided added safety and security for our pet. The easy clean drain holes also made it hassle-free to clean up any messes. However, we did notice that the door was a bit flimsy compared to other kennels we've used before. Overall, we would recommend the Lucky Kennel Intermediate for pet owners who prioritize safety and durability for their furry friends.
6. TRIXIE Dog Kennel SunshadeIf you're looking for a way to keep your dog cool and dry on hot or wet days, the TRIXIE Dog Kennel Sunshade is a great option.
Pros
Cons
We recently purchased the TRIXIE Dog Kennel Sunshade for our dog, and we were impressed with how easy it was to attach to our TRIXIE Outdoor Dog Kennel. The elastic straps made it simple to secure the sunshade to the kennel, and it provided full protection from the sun, rain, and wind. We were also pleased with the quality of the material – the reversible polyester seems durable and able to resist wear and tear.
However, we did notice that the sunshade only fits TRIXIE's Outdoor Dog Kennel Model 39211, so it may not be suitable for other kennel models. Additionally, some users reported that the sunshade wasn't sturdy enough for aggressive chewers, so it may not be the best option for dogs who like to chew on things. We also saw a few complaints about missing parts and bent panels, so be sure to inspect the sunshade carefully when it arrives.
Overall, we think the TRIXIE Dog Kennel Sunshade is a great product for anyone who wants to provide their dog with extra protection from the elements. It's easy to attach, provides full coverage, and seems durable enough to last for a while. Just be sure to check that it fits your kennel model and inspect it carefully for any defects.
7. Petmate Vari Dog KennelWe highly recommend the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel for pet owners who want to ensure their furry friends travel safely and comfortably.
Pros
Cons
The Petmate Vari Dog Kennel is a versatile and eco-friendly option for pet owners who want to provide their pets with a safe and comfortable space during transport. The stay-dry moat that surrounds the interior of the kennel pulls fluids away from pets in case of wet accidents, making it a great puppy carrier or kennel trainer for housebreaking.
Petmate is committed to providing high-quality and eco-friendly pet products that pet parents can trust. The Vari Dog Kennel is made from certified 90% to 100% pre-consumer recycled material, has a metal nut and bolt assembly, and is made in the USA with imported handle and other components.
Overall, the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel is an excellent choice for pet owners who want a reliable and convenient crate for their pets during travel.
8. Pet Spaces Adjustable Kennel Cover, Extra Large X-LargeWe highly recommend the Pet Spaces Adjustable Kennel Cover for those looking to protect their furry friend from the elements in a comfortable and flexible way.
Pros
Cons
We recently used this kennel cover during a camping trip and were impressed with its functionality. The cover was easy to put on and fit our kennel perfectly. Our dog was able to stay dry during a sudden rainstorm, and the cover held up well in light winds. The drawstrings made it easy to adjust the size of the cover, and the machine-washable feature made it easy to clean after the trip.
However, we did notice that the velcro straps to hold the front window up were not very strong and may not hold up during heavy winds. Additionally, the cover is not insulated, so it may not be suitable for extremely cold weather. Lastly, the zipper may not be very durable and may break after extended use.
Overall, we highly recommend the Pet Spaces Adjustable Kennel Cover for its flexibility, water-resistance, and ease of maintenance.
Buying GuideWhen choosing a dog kennel, there are several important factors to consider. We've compiled a list of features to look for to help you choose the best product for your furry friend.
SizeThe size of the kennel is crucial to ensure your dog has enough space to move around comfortably. It's important to choose a kennel that is appropriate for your dog's size and breed. A kennel that is too small can cause your dog to feel cramped and uncomfortable, while a kennel that is too large can make your dog feel insecure and anxious.
MaterialThe material of the kennel is also an important factor to consider. The most common materials used for dog kennels are plastic, metal, and wood. Plastic kennels are lightweight and easy to clean, while metal kennels are durable and sturdy. Wooden kennels are aesthetically pleasing but may require more maintenance.
VentilationProper ventilation is important to ensure your dog is comfortable and safe inside the kennel. Look for kennels with adequate ventilation to ensure your dog has access to fresh air and proper airflow.
SecurityThe security of the kennel is crucial to ensure your dog is safe and secure. Look for kennels with secure latches and locks to prevent your dog from escaping or intruders from entering.
PortabilityIf you plan on traveling with your dog, a portable kennel may be a good option. Look for kennels that are lightweight and easy to assemble and disassemble for travel.
CleaningKeeping your dog's kennel clean is important for their health and well-being. Look for kennels that are easy to clean and maintain, with removable trays or floors for easy cleaning.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best dog kennel for your furry friend.
Frequently Asked Questions What is the best dog crate for high anxiety dogs?If your dog has high anxiety, we recommend a crate that is sturdy and secure, with a calming effect. The Petmate Sky Kennel is a great option as it is made of heavy-duty plastic and has a calming effect on dogs. The crate also has a secure door and a ventilation system.
What dog crate has a 5 star crash rating?The Gunner Kennels G1 Intermediate crate has a 5-star crash rating from the Center for Pet Safety. It is made of heavy-duty materials and has a secure locking system to keep your dog safe during transportation.
What is the safest dog crate?The safest dog crate is one that is made of high-quality materials and has been crash-tested for safety. The Gunner Kennels G1 Intermediate crate is a great option as it has a 5-star crash rating from the Center for Pet Safety.
What are the top-rated dog kennels according to consumer reports?According to consumer reports, the top-rated dog kennels are the Petmate Sky Kennel, the Gunner Kennels G1 Intermediate crate, and the Midwest Life Stages Double Door Folding Metal Dog Crate. These crates are durable, secure, and provide a comfortable space for your dog.
What are the features of the best collapsible dog crate?The best collapsible dog crate should be easy to set up and take down, lightweight, and durable. The MidWest Homes for Pets Life Stages Double Door Folding Metal Dog Crate is a great option as it has a double door design, is easy to set up and take down, and is made of durable materials.
Do dogs prefer crates or kennels?Dogs prefer a space that is comfortable and secure, whether it is a crate or a kennel. It is important to choose a crate or kennel that is the right size for your dog and provides a comfortable space for them to relax and rest.
The Top 23 Largest Dog Breeds - USA TODAY
Key pointsLarge dog breeds were originally bred to help with herding, hunting, guarding and rescuing.
Big dogs can come with health risks, like hip dysplasia, heart problems and cruciate ligament tears. An accident and illness pet insurance plan can help pay for things like surgeries and hospital visits for your large pup if it gets injured or sick.
The 23 largest dog breeds in the worldThe American Kennel Club keeps track of the largest dog breeds in the world, publishing its list annually. These are the largest dog breeds by male weight.
Source: American Kennel Club
1. Mastiff
Volschenkh, Getty Images Mastiffs rank 37th out of 200 in terms of popularity among American Kennel Club breeds, thanks in part to their affectionate nature and ability to get along well with other dogs and children. Males can weigh up to 230 pounds, while females can reach up to 170 pounds. They have a shorter lifespan than some of the other breeds, averaging between six and 10 years.
2. Boerboel
EstrellaBuena, Getty Images Originally bred as protectors of farmland and homesteads in South Africa, Boerboels are still protective guard dogs that love their families. Both male and female Boerboels can reach 200 pounds. Because Boerboels tend to be protective, socializing them as puppies is important. These dogs have a lifespan of nine to 11 years.
3. Tosa inu
Acceptfoto, Getty Images Also known as a Tosa or Tosa Ken, these large dogs can reach 200 pounds. Loving with families but aloof with strangers, Tosas can be great watch dogs. Tosas rarely become aggressive with people but may react aggressively towards other dogs, which means socializing them young with other pups may be important if you plan on bringing your Tosa around other canines. Tosas can live a long life in big-breed terms, with their lifespan usually being around 10 to 12 years.
4. Saint Bernard
Emmepiphoto, Getty Images Immortalized in the classic movie "Beethoven," Saint Bernards are one of the more popular large dog breeds. Originating in the Swiss Alps, today the breed is known for its intelligence, docile nature and affinity for adults and children alike. Males can weigh up to 180 pounds, while females typically reach between 120 and 140 pounds. These large dogs have a lifespan of eight to 10 years.
5. Great Dane
RugliG, Getty Images Great Danes can reach up to 32 inches at shoulder height and stand over seven feet tall when on their hind legs, making them one of the tallest breeds. Initially developed to hunt wild boars and serve as guardians, this breed loves providing companionship and keeping everyone safe. They can weigh up to 175 pounds, but that doesn't stop them from trying to lay in their owners' laps. Good with children and other dogs, Great Danes are an all-around great option.
6. Leonberger
Julia_Siomuha, Getty Images Recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club in 2010, the German Leonberger receives high marks as a family pet and gets along exceptionally well with children. Males can weigh up to 170 pounds, topping out at around 31 inches tall. Outfitted with a waterproof coat, long legs and a mane like a lion's, these dogs enjoy being active and athletic outdoors.
7. Neapolitan mastiff
Okikukai, Getty Images Demonstrating the hallmark skin folds of other mastiffs, the Neapolitan mastiff originated in ancient Rome and remains a popular large dog. Smaller than the standard mastiff, males can weigh up to 150 pounds and females up to 110 pounds. While they are profusely protective of their loved ones — be they adults or children — they can be wary of strangers.
8. Newfoundland
MartinFredy, Getty Images Affectionately known as Newfies, this docile and happy breed loves nothing more than finding a body of water where they can use their webbed feet. They rank 42nd out of 200 in terms of popularity due to their love of family, patience with young children and acceptance of other dogs. Males reach an average of 28 inches in height and 150 pounds, while females average 26 inches and up to 120 pounds.
9. Anatolian shepherd
Batuhan Toker, Getty Images Initially bred to help herd livestock, Anatolian shepherds stand an average of 29 inches for males and 27 inches for females and weigh between 110 to 150 pounds and 80 to 120 pounds, respectively. These protectors enjoy having jobs to perform; as such, they tend to be less open to strangers and more independent than other breeds.
10. Tibetan mastiff
User7565abab_575, Getty Images Known as the "guardian of the Himalayas," Tibetan mastiffs have guarded monasteries for millennia. Independent in thought and action, Tibetan mastiffs will sometimes overrule their owner's instruction or training if they decide on a different course. Tibetan mastiff males can weigh up to 150 pounds and — from their shoulders — stand 26 inches high. They can come across as aloof and intimidating, but they can also enjoy their families and may get along well with kids and dogs with training and supervision. Their medium-length double coat requires regular grooming and can easily become matted if left unattended.
11. Dogue de Bordeaux
Bigandt_Photography, Getty Images Translated as the "Mastiff of Bordeaux," these French dogs feature short coats, expressive eyes and protective tendencies. They reach up to 27 inches in height and an average of 110 pounds and up in weight. Known for their stubborn natures, early training of this breed is essential. While a great family pet, Dogue de Bordeaux dogs have a shorter life span than others — around five to eight years.
12. Greater Swiss mountain dog
Nadiia_Diachenko, Getty Images Greater Swiss mountain dogs, also known as "Swissies" can stand 28.5 inches tall from their shoulders and males can weigh up to 140 pounds. Swissies were originally bred as working dogs in the Swiss mountains. They're great with children and families and relatively agreeable with other dogs if socialized young.
13. Rottweiler
Alexandr_Andreyko, Getty ImagesRottweilers are known in films for their intimidating nature, but they are very affectionate with their own families. Male Rottweilers can weigh up to 135 pounds and females up to 100 pounds. This breed is full of muscle, but can be a gentle giant if trained properly. A Rottie's average lifespan is nine to 10 years.
14. Bullmastiff
SusanaValera, Getty Images Known for their muscular and stocky appearance, bullmastiffs can weigh up to 130 pounds and stand up to 27 inches at their shoulders. They enjoy hard work as much as family time and are prized for their intelligence and guarding capabilities. Given their shorter coats, bullmastiffs require less grooming than some of the other breeds on this list.
15. Great Pyrenees
Creativex, Getty Images Known for their white double coats, Great Pyrenees are gentle giants who routinely weigh more than 100 pounds and stand as high as 32 inches. This breed displays affection freely, but will also spring into action if they need to protect or guard those they love. Great Pyrenees sit at the crossroads of independent and subordinate, making them generally willing to take directions.
16. Akita
Jade Bastian, Getty Images Akitas were originally bred in Japan, where they're known as family protectors and symbols of good health and happiness. Although not as tall as other large dogs, Akitas are muscular, but you may not be able to see it at first under their dense, thick coats. Akita's typically have red and white or black and white coats. Male Akitas can weigh up to 130 pounds, while females can get up to 100 pounds.
17. Black Russian terrier
DevidDO, Getty Images While you may not think of a terrier when considering the largest canines, these Soviet-bred dogs weigh between 80 and 130 pounds and are up to 30 inches tall. Black Russian terriers make great family pets due to their guarding nature and aloofness with strangers. Bred as protectors, they are also prized for their intelligence and courage.
18. Irish wolfhound
eAlisa, Getty Images Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1897, the Irish Wolfhound is the tallest of the breeds, with males sometimes exceeding 32 inches and weighing an average of 120 pounds. They live an average of six to eight years and are praised for their affectionate, agreeable nature.
19. Otterhound
Kyle Reynolds, Getty Images Like the name implies, Otterhounds were originally bred to hunt otters in England, which is now an illegal practice. Otterhounds are affectionate and energetic dogs that love the water — they have webbed toes which helps make them expert swimmers. Male Otterhounds can weigh up to 115 pounds, while females don't get quite as big, typically weighing no more than 80 pounds. These big dogs can live a long life, with their lifespan typically being around 10 to 13 years.
20. Kuvaszok
Slowmotiongli, Getty Images Kuvaszok were originally bred in Hungary as guardian dogs for livestock. Males can weigh up to 115 pounds and females 90 pounds. Kuvaszok are loyal dogs but can be challenging, so early training is important. These dogs typically live up to 10 to 12 years old.
21. Bernese mountain dog
Bigandt_Photography, Getty Images A popular option for families, Bernese mountain dogs are known for their friendly demeanors, playfulness and protective natures. Females range between 23 and 26 inches high and between 70 and 95 pounds. Meanwhile, the males fall between 25 to 27.5 inches tall and 80 to 115 pounds. With a double coat and medium-length hair, they require more grooming than some of the other largest dogs.
22. Scottish deerhound
Slowmotiongli, Getty Images One of the more social large breeds, Scottish deerhounds can grow sad being left alone and prefer the company of those they love. They enjoy running, making a secure fenced yard or a sturdy leash necessary. Scottish Deerhounds are amongst some of the tallest dog breeds, with males measuring up to 32 inches from their shoulders to the ground. Although they share DNA with greyhounds, Scottish deerhounds have much larger frames and males can easily weigh up to 110 pounds.
23. Cane Corso
Ellefaye, Getty Images Tracing their history back to Roman times, cane corsos are prized for their protective nature, intelligence and affection. They make ideal family pets and interact well with children and other dogs, displaying an eagerness to accept training and high energy levels. A Cane Corso's life expectancy is between nine and 12 years.
Things to consider with large dog breedsHere are some things to consider when getting a large dog.
Dogs that weigh at least 50 pounds and have a shoulder height of at least 24 inches are considered a large breed, although some may raise the number to 70 pounds. When considering these figures, it's important to remember that a dog who weighs 50 pounds but is overweight is not a large breed dog.
Who is the world's biggest dog?Zeus the Great Dane currently holds the title for the world's tallest living dog, coming in at 41 inches tall at his shoulders and standing 88 inches on his back legs. To maintain his stature, Zeus eats 12 cups of dog food each day.
Largest dog breeds FAQS What are all the giant dog breeds?To be considered a giant dog breed, the average weight must exceed around 90 pounds. Breeds you can expect to find in this classification include the Saint Bernard, Great Dane, Irish Wolfhound, Newfoundland and Mastiff, among others.
When does a dog stop growing?According to the American Kennel Club, several factors affect when a dog stops growing, including its breed. Small breed dogs are 75% fully grown by six months and 100% grown by 12 months, whereas large breed dogs take longer. Large and giant breed dogs do not reach full maturity until at least 18 months old, although for some this can extend to 24 months.
What is the #1 biggest dog?The standard mastiff is the number one biggest dog, with males weighing up to 230 pounds and females up to 170 pounds. Though large in stature, mastiffs are considered gentle giants who love their families and protect them unquestionably.
What is the chunkiest dog in the world?In 1987, Zorba the Old English mastiff clinched the title of heaviest dog in the world, weighing in at 343 pounds and measuring over eight feet long. Zorba enjoyed a long life, passing away in 1992 at the age of 11.
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7 Best Dog Crates 2025 - Forbes Vetted
There are many benefits to crate training, whether you're welcoming a new puppy or an older dog. The best dog crates offer pups a safe, personal space to unwind and sleep; they also potentially help keep them out of trouble when unsupervised or during grooming or vet visits. Our top pick overall is the Diggs Revol Dog Crate, a model that is stylish, collapsible and easy to clean. For puppies, we recommend Midwest Homes' Single-Door Crate, a folding wire option with a durable divider panel that allows it to grow with your pet.
The best dog crates (such as the Diggs Revolv) offer a secure and relaxing space for your pup to ... More unwind.
ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: DIGGSWhile there are some differences among canine behavioral experts about whether crate training is essential for all pups, "it's better to crate-train a dog than not for many reasons," says Alexandra Bassett, lead dog trainer and behavior consultant at Dog Savvy. In addition to easing your pet's nerves at appointments or while you're away, they're quite helpful if you're welcoming a puppy who isn't potty or house trained yet, Bassett adds.
When choosing a dog crate, "every dog and situation deserves to be looked at on an individual basis," advises Renee Rhoades, an applied animal behaviorist and founder of R+Dogs. Consider your pet's temperament, preferences and, of course, size: The crate should be large enough for them to turn and stand comfortably, but not too large that they end up using one corner as a bathroom. Based on these expert tips and additional feedback from our on-staff dog parents, we selected the seven best dog crates, which you can read about below.
MOST POPULAR
Amazon
Diggs Revol Dog Crate
Dimensions: 44 x 28 x 30 inches (large)Weight: 25 to 53 poundsSizes: S to LMaterial: Plastic and aluminum frame, steel mesh
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Collapsible for travel? Check. Easy to clean? Check. Comfortable and safe for your favorite four-legged friend? Check. The stylish Revolv crate comes in small and medium sizes, as well as color options that include Ash, Gray and Charcoal. It's also one of the best collapsible dog crates out there, breaking down for storage and easy transport. The included wheels and handle add to its portability, too.
But where the Revolv truly stands out is in the details that prioritize puppy training and safety, like its double-door design (which includes a standard front door and a garage-style side door), as well as the ceiling hatch and puppy divider. (There's a reason it's a top pick in our ultimate puppy checklist.) Plus, the crate features rounded corners, pup-inaccessible latching mechanisms and mesh that doesn't pitch.
What the experts say: Nicole Ellis, a certified professional dog trainer and an expert at Rover, says that unlike typical metal crates, which tend to have square-shaped mesh that dog tags can get stuck in, this crate "has a metal diamond shape to prevent tags from getting caught."
Walmart Promo Codes & Coupons$10 off In April 2024Dimensions: 48 x 30 x 32 inches (XL)Weight: 43.7 poundsSizes: XS to XLMaterial: Coated steel, metal
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Behavior specialists advise you not to put a new puppy in a full-sized crate, as this may hinder your training efforts (pups shouldn't have enough room to feel comfortable going to the bathroom in one corner of the crate and spending the rest of the time in another). But you'll also need to anticipate growth, says Dr. Missy Matusicky, an assistant professor at The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine. That's why she recommends adult-sized crates that include crate divider panels, which will let you adjust the crate as your pup grows.
One excellent example of such a model is Frisco by Chewy's Fold & Carry Wire Dog Crate. Its heavy-duty wire design comes in a wide range of sizes, from 22 inches to 48 inches in length; its corners are rounded for your puppy's safety. The divider panel keeps your pooch secure in a space sized to their needs, and the easy-to-clean plastic base pan is helpful in case of accidents. (Note: Frisco Heavy-Duty Crates also come in a double-door style.)
What our editors say: Forbes Vetted deputy editor Rose Gordon Sala vouches for this crate's quality and value, sharing, "It's very inexpensive and yet sturdy for our small dog. We've had it nearly a year without issue. She comfortably sleeps in it every night. I appreciate the pull-out bottom drawer, which made it easier to hose down for unexpected messes." Though her dog, Bubbles, is only 21 pounds, Sala says they chose the Frisco to accommodate her long legs.
Amazon
Midwest Homes Single-Door Dog Crate
Dimensions: 54 x 37 x 45 inches (XXL)Weight: 80.2 pounds (XXL)Sizes: XXS to XXLMaterial: Coated metal, plastic, metal
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For large dog breeds—Great Danes and St. Bernards, for example—you're going to need a sizable crate to match. Go for the collapsible Midwest Homes Wire Crate, which is available in sizes that go up to a whopping 54 inches long and 45 inches high. Reviewers say it's impressively sturdy, thanks to its coated metal, drop-pin construction and stabilizing rubber feet. It's also puppy friendly, featuring rounded edges, a divider panel and a low-maintenance plastic tray. The door is secured by three reinforced latches for extra peace of mind.
While this model conveniently folds up for easier storage and transport, it's worth noting that—especially with the larger sizes—this crate can get quite heavy due to its tough construction. (Note: Midwest Homes' Wire Crate comes in a double-door style that also goes up to size XXL.)
What our testers say: Forbes sales research and insights analyst Melis Ocal says she has happily used the Midwest Single-Door Crate for her pit bull mix. "It's so easy to fold and transport, which was especially important to me ... When my dog had to spend a few nights at my parents' [house]. It has traveled so well and is easy to clean and find beds for due to the standard size."
Dimensions: 39.3 x 26.8 x 29.5 inches (XL)Weight: 31 pounds (XL)Sizes: M to XLMaterial: Plastic, wire mesh door
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While plastic dog crates aren't as durable, ventilated or easy to store as wire crates, they have their advantages. "Plastic crates have solid sides, so they may be more comfortable for a dog to lean against than a wire crate," shares Bassett. She adds that while wire crates offer 360-degree visibility, a shy or fearful dog might better appreciate the cozier, more solid-feeling confines of a plastic crate.
One good plastic dog crate we're partial to is the Frisco Plastic Dog Kennel. Its sides are sturdy enough for pups to lean on, and they make the interior adequately darker to help nervous ones feel less exposed. Since plastic crates tend to offer less airflow than wire ones, we appreciate that Frisco's version comes equipped with several ventilation holes on its sides for better circulation. And should you want to store it, the crate comes apart in the middle to form two stackable halves.
What our experts say: Unsure if your pup prefers a plastic or wire crate? While you should factor in how your dog reacts to each type, "what is more likely to sway their feelings about the crate is how it is used and where it is located," Rhoades explains. If you're in doubt, consult your vet or behavior professional.
USA-Made
Dimensions: 40.3 x 28 x 33.3 inches (large)Weight: 72 pounds (large)Sizes: S to LMaterial: Double-wall rotomolded plastic, aluminum and stainless steel components
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Even the most masterful canine escape artists will have a tough time breaking out of the G1 Kennel, a rugged crate built for maximum safety and security for your pet on the road. It's made of double-walled rotomolded plastic that the brand says offers twice as much impact protection as traditional plastic. And there are stats to prove it: This construction, reinforced with an aluminum frame, has been 5-star crash-tested and proven to withstand up to 4,000 pounds of force. (Not to mention, the brand feels confident enough in the G1's durability that it's covered by a lifetime warranty.)
It also features backup safety locks, rip-proof tie-down pins and straps, and rubber feet to give pet owners extra peace of mind. Durability isn't the only thing the G1 excels in: The crate's double-walled design helps shield your pooch from both extreme cold and heat, and it's equipped with strong carrying handles and a drainage system for easy clean-up.
What the reviews say: An owner of two labs writes, "We feel so safe now we have these Gunner kennels in our truck. I always feared traveling with our labs in the bed of the truck without proper protection. ... Our dogs love the coolness and coziness of the inside... [They're] easy to clean, manage, lock and strap down, great looking kennels."
Impact Dog Crates
Impact Dog Crates High-Anxiety Crate
Dimensions: 48.5 x 32.5 x 36 inches (2XL)Weight: 79 poundsSizes: M to XXLMaterial: Aluminum alloy, zinc-plated steel latch
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If your dog is prone to anxiety, the openness of wire crates might give them too much stimulation for comfort. However, while plastic dog crates do offer a more enclosed feel, "anxious dogs have been known to chew out of these crates (unless you are going for a really high-end crate)," explains Rover's Ellis. You'll want to work with a certified behavior professional to help your dog become more comfortable being crated, but you'll also need a durable crate. This model from Impact Dog Crates addresses the gaps that regular wire and plastic crates have with its design.
This high-anxiety crate has durable metal walls that are welded in place, and the door is secured by four individual latches. There are holes all around the crate to increase airflow, but they're small enough that your dog won't be able to chew through them. (Because these ventilation holes are smaller than the ones in its other models, Impact says it increased their overall amount to offer more airflow.) The brand also backs the crate with both a lifetime warranty and a "lifetime dog warranty:" If your dog damages any part of the crate, you'll get a replacement part for free.
What the experts say: Plenty of happy reviewers say this crate has helped calm and secure their nervous pups (for reference, it's garnered almost 2,000 5-star ratings). However, Rhoades advises taking claims of "indestructibility" or "solving" behavioral problems with a grain of salt and suggests always consulting with your vet or a behavior professional first.
Dimensions: 45 x 28 x 32 inches (extra-large)Weight: 83.8 poundsSizes: S to XLMaterial: Plywood, acrylic panel, stainless steel latch
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