10 Best Wire Dog Crates + Buying Guide & Reviews

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The best wire dog crates

There are many different reasons why you might choose to crate train your dog, and professionals often refer to it as one of the most efficient ways to shape their behavior and ensure that training is retained.

In terms of making an educated decision when purchasing a create, the main things to keep in mind is the size of the crate in relation to the dog that you are planning to use it with, and the material in which it is made. While plastic crates are an option, wire tend to be longer lasting and generally preferred by most owners.

The crate will be used as their bed, and an escape from anything hectic that might be going on in the house. Its purpose will be to provide safety and security as well as housetraining, preventing negative behavior, and used for travel.

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Here is the round up of different products available in our guide:

Why use a dog crate?

There are several benefits of using a dog crate, both for yourself as an owner and the canine in question.

It offers a positive solution to reinforcing desired behaviors, as well as providing peace of mind that everything will stay in order at home while you are out and about! A regular training schedule encourages control and adherence to a stable routine, and in the long run, a well-behaved pooch.

Crates can also be very handy if you are an owner that moves around a lot. Keeping a familiar space, with recognisable smells, colors, and shapes helps to keep the dog’s anxiety levels down – particularly helpful during an already stressful time such as a house move or taking a dog on vacation.

Planning guests? Using the crate can be handy if you have many people around the house. It not only prevents the dog from getting in the way if you are walking around carrying hot items, but can also keep them away from any loud conversations and music.

Benefits for the dog

We all like to have a space that we can call our own and escape to when we need a little bit of rest and relaxation, so why should a dog be any different.

By ensuring that the space has a few items they enjoy, such as blankets, cushions and a few toys, they can return there whenever they need to take a break from the day to day, or to be involved with days out thanks to the stress-free convenience of being transported.

Crate training also helps in toilet training for a dog, as it helps them to associate the act with being outdoors. Many owners report on this being the most effective way to train their puppy.

What to keep in mind

Dimensions – as we have touched upon, it is important to make sure that you are not going to purchase a crate that is too small for your furry friend. Ensure that the crate you are buying provides enough room for them to stand up and have a little bit of space to move around in and get comfortable.

Location – think carefully about where you are going to locate the crate within your household. Dogs are social animals and like to be involved with your day to day life, however, it needs to be somewhere they can escape if required. Try not to put the cage too far out of the way though as it may generate feelings of isolation and might make your dog feel like it is being punished when it goes in there.

Transportability – folding crates can be great space savers when not in use, but try to avoid using them for larger dogs. These crates typically do not require tools to assemble, meaning that they also do not require them when being taken apart!

Locks – if you think it might be an issue to have a cage that does not lock, then take a look at some of the different solutions on the market. Instances where you might want to consider a lock include if there are small (or even grown up) children around the house that might decide they want a little extra playtime, or a particularly intelligent dog that may have figured out how the opening of the cage works.

What about anxious dogs?

If your dog is displaying signs of anxiety, then a cage might be the solution to help ease their spirits. The crates that are suitable for dogs with a nervous disposition all share similar qualities and should be taken into consideration wherever possible.

Light levels – dark spaces have a more secluded feel to them, and therefore increase the feeling of peace and quiet when a dog is looking for solitude. It is, however, important to consider the levels of ventilation in the crate so it is better to look for a naturally dark model, rather than placing a blanket over the top of a more open design.

Amount of space – while a space that is too small is not recommended, providing something that is too spacious as these do not provide the same level of security as a tighter space. Providing more space than that to stand up and turn around in might be considered too much.

Sturdiness – if your dog has a habit for chewing things when anxious then it is worth taking this into consideration when purchasing your crate. Wire is often best as it does not provide any edges that could be gnawed on, thus avoiding any holes or escape routes being inadvertently created.

Security – while we have discussed the different options when it comes to the security and ability to lock a crate, it is important to make sure that a crate for an anxious dog is nice and secure. The bigger the dog is, the higher the risk of escaping when it comes to a nervous moment.

The great escape

If you have a bigger dog, then it is important to make sure that the cage is truly secure as some models can become victim of brute force.

Solid walls – ensure they have some ventilation is the most important factor here when looking at the walls of a crate, but the more solid the wall, the more likely it is to hold up against a bit of force.

Removable trays – these features help the cleaning process and ensure that convenience is number one when it comes to tidying up.

Ventilation – while solid walls are important, the best products will still prioritise the dogs comfort (as they rightly should). If the crate is too hot then you will find that your dog is more likely to misbehave. A lack of airflow will also create a damper environment causing an unpleasant stay for your dog, as well as an odor around the house.

Latches – ensuring that latches are inaccessible to your dog will make sure that they stay safe and secure within the crate – this also means that they cannot be opened from the inside.

If you find that your dog is constantly escaping from its crate then it is time to carry out some investigative work and find out how they are managing it. Take a look around the crate for any signs of weakness or consider hiding a little webcam while you are out of the room.

Making sure that your dog is nice and tired out before putting them away, or given them something to distract them like a dog, will mean that they may be less inclined to try and vacate the crate.

The product reviews

We have taken a look at some of the different options on the market so please see below for a selection of the different options that are out there to choose from.

AmazonBasics Single Door & Double Door Folding Metal Dog Crate

Available size options: 22-inch, 24-inch, 30-inch, 36-inch, 42-inch, 48-inch

Other options: single or double door models.

This dog crate features either single or double door options for convenient front and side entry – as well as providing extra manoeuvrability for your dog and when it comes to cleaning out and sprucing up.

Whether you buy the single or double door option, each door comes with side-bolt latches which help to increase the safety and security of the model, making sure that your dog stays in the cage when you want them to.

The metal construction is sturdy once assembled, and it also folds flat for easy storage when not in use and transportability if you want to move it around, with or without the dog inside.

An additional optional extra with this model is a divider panel, but is also comes with a removable composite plastic pan; meaning you can open up the space in the crate as the puppy grows, or clean it without removing the dog.

This crate is suitable for dogs as well as puppies and offers a great level of convenience for all owners. As with all crates it can be used for anything from toilet training to reinforcement of house rules and boundaries.

The metal frame folds flat in seconds for easy storage, and the base is made of composite plastic. This base is easy to remove for cleaning purposes, and it has a handle on the side for simple transportation.

This is an Amazon Basics product and comes with a one year warranty.

Ultima Pro (Professional Series & Most Durable MidWest Dog Crate) Extra-Strong Double Door Folding Metal Dog Crate w/ Divider Panel, Floor Protecting “Roller Feet” & Leak-Proof Plastic Pan

Available size options: 24-inch, 30-inch, 36-inch, 42-inch, 48-inch, all models come with a divider to help manage the size of the space for smaller puppies.

This crate is only available as a double door option, but still folds down for storage when required. It weighs a total of 30.1lbs.

Ultima Pro claims to provide the strongest and thickest wire gauge, as well as using the most durable metal in its dog crates. This model is great for strong dogs, show dogs, regular crate users, and for those who travel a lot with their dogs.

This crate includes a free divider panel, a leak-proof plastic pan, a strong carrying handle, and rubber feet to protect floors from marks and to stop any unwanted moving around on the floor. It also features a one year warranty.

Dogs are kept secure with two slide-bolt latches on each of the crates doors (one at the front and one on the right), ensuring that dogs are locked in place.

The strong design creates a safe place for your dog to stay whether you are with them at home or out and about for the day.

Purchasing this product also provides you with a crate training video that will show you the basics of how to get your dog used to a crate for the very first time.

MidWest Homes for Pets Dog Crate | iCrate Single Door & Double Door Folding Metal Dog Crates | Fully Equipped

Available size options: 18-inch, 22-inch, 24-inch, 30-inch, 36-inch, 42-inch, 48-inch, all models come with a divider to help manage the size of the space for smaller puppies.

As well as offering a single and double door option, the single door comes in black, blue, and pink to match any sort of home decor or pup preference.

Following on from our other models on the list, this also features a free divider panel, durable dog tray, carrying handle and four rolling feet to help protect the floors.

This product also includes a one year quality guarantee.

With many sizes available, pick the right one to fit your breed of dog, with the option to expand the space by removing the divider as your dog grows into the space. Consider buying a model that will suit them from puppy through to adult size.

This durable design creates a safe place for your pet while you are away, as well as catering to what is known as their natural den instincts.

The doors feature heavy duty slide bolt latches to firmly lock the door in place and keep the dog secure inside.

An easy assembly process means that the crate is set up in seconds with no tools required, as well as folding flat easily for convenient storage or travelling purposes. It also features roller feet in order to protect flooring and make it simple to move around when required.

Dog Crate Double-Door Folding Metal – Wire Cage w/Divider & Tray for Training Pets – 2019 Newly Designed Model

Available size options: 20-inch single door (no divider), 24-inch double door (with divider), 30-inch double door (with divider), 36-inch double door (with divider), 42-inch double door (with divider), 48-inch double door (with divider).

No tools are required when putting the crate together. This cage features folding sides so that it can be disassembled with ease for storage when not in use, and features a handle on top if you need to move the crate around with a light dog in tow.

The crate is made from heavy duty solid steel, high tensile wire strength, and a black electro coat finish. Weighing in at just over 30 pounds, the crate itself is fairly lightweight and easy to move around when not in use.

Manufactured by Paws and Pals. One pro of the product is that the brand promises to make a donation to local shelters following each purchase. Monies will go directly to those in need to help fund pet adoptions.

Carlson Pet Products Secure and Foldable Single Door Metal Dog Crate

Carlson Pet Products Secure and Foldable Single Door Metal Dog Crate

Available size options: small, medium, intermediate, large, extra large.

This crate option features an all steel construction and a single door for entry. It has a secure locking system to ensure that your dog is safely and securely tucked away when required. This product provides a secure space for your pet to spend time.

The model also features an internal black pan that can be removed for easy washing to make sure that your dog’s secure space can be kept clean and dry.

The system is completely foldable for increased portability, storage, and ease of car travel. It also features a multi-point locking system and has one door at the front of the crate for easy access and providing peace of mind.

Measurements for the different size options are as follows:

Small – 24-inches long, 18-inches wide, 19-inches tall (best suited for dogs up to 25 pounds)

Medium – 30-inches long, 19-inches wide, 21-inches tall (best suited for dogs up to 45 pounds)

Intermediate – 36-inches long, 23-inches wide, 25-inches tall (best suited for dogs up to 70 pounds)

Large – 42-inches long, 28-inches wide, 30-inches tall (best suited for dogs up to 95 pounds)

Extra large – 48-inches long, 30-inches wide, 33-inches tall (best suited for dogs up to 120 pounds)

MidWest Exercise Pen / Pet Playpens | 8-Panels Each w/ 5 Height Options Ideal for Any Dog Breed

Available size options: 24-inches high, 30-inches high, 36-inches high, 42-inches high, 48-inches high

There are two colourways available for this product and two options regarding doors; black with no door, black with a door, and gold zinc with a door.

Unlike the other cages on this list, the MidWest Exercise Pen does not feature a roof meaning that dogs can be lifted in and out if you go for the option that does not have a door. The models with a door have a double latch step-through door access, and the playpen folds flat for convenient storage. Panels can also be disjointed in order to let dogs through with ground level access, great for those who might have mobility issues and want to get a bit of exercise.

Each of the eight rectangular panels fit together easily and all of the different height versions provide an ample 16 square feet of enclosed area once assembled. This equates to 1.5 meters squared of space for your dog to roam around in.

This can also be used outdoors as it includes eight ground anchors, eight corner stabilizers, and four thumb snaps for simple, no tools required, assembly.

The black e-coat finish also provides long lasting protection against rust and outdoor elements if you do choose to use it outside of the house.

With the MidWest Exercise Pen, pets can exercise as well as being securely locked away for your peace of mind. This would be perfect if you are having a family gathering and want to keep the dog outside in the sunshine, without being worried about it wandering off throughout the house or outside of the garden’s confines.

This model is also suitable for other animals, not just dogs, such as ducks and rabbits through to cats that want to explore part of the outdoors. It provides a suitable playground while keeping them under a watchful eye.

Picking a product that is right for you

Take a thorough look through all of the different product options to familiarize yourself with what is available on the market as there might be many different solutions available to suit your furry friend.

Be sure to assess all the requirements that your dog may have and take these into consideration when making an informed purchase of a wire dog cage. The most important aspect to keep in mind though, will be the size of your dog as no one wants to be confined into an area that is too small for them.

When you start off crate training make sure that your dog understands what is going on, and aim to make the process as smooth as possible by introducing familiar elements like blankets and toys.