Have you got a new puppy scampering around your home?
Are you thinking of investing in a new furball for the coming year?
Either way, you’ll need a good dog crate suitable for smaller pups and today’s guide will help you to choose the most effective model for your needs.
Dog crates have many purposes, including:
Using a dog crate is not merely meant to make your life easier, though. All dogs have a genetic desire to snuggle up or den in a warm and dark space. If you properly introduce your new puppy to a crate and do not keep him cooped up inside for too long, it might become his favorite snuggle space.
Successful crate training hinges on choosing a crate that is the right size for your puppy. You’ll need to factor in the physical size of the dog, how large he will grow, and his activity levels when deciding on the appropriate size. To simplify things for you, we have curated the leading crates suitable for puppies and smaller dogs today.
If you have no idea what you’re looking for in a canine crate, bear these pointers in mind before brandishing your credit card:
If you bear these elements in mind, you should have no trouble picking a suitable crate from the many options we review today.
Dive in!
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The 14 Best Dog Crate for Puppies
1. Our Pick MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate for Dogs
Features
Our overall favorite crate suitable for puppies comes from MidWest Homes for Pets. As you’ll see from today’s roundup, this brand has a deep bench of great canine crates, all of which are suitable for puppies and small breeds.
Of the many models at your disposal, this is the 22-inch crate that comes with a removable divider inside. This is the second-smallest of this wide line of crates perfect for puppies and small dogs weighing up to 12 pounds.
The metal construction is reasonable considering the attractive price point of this crate. You can use it indoors or outdoors, and it is also highly portable. Whether you need a training crate for home or a travel crate for your new puppy’s first trip, the iCrate is well worth popping on your shortlist.
This iteration of the crate comes equipped with double doors, making it easy for your dog to get in and out. These doors have low thresholds, but we advise keeping an eye out for the sharp edges.
A rugged and leakproof plastic insert is removable, ensuring that you have no hassle maintaining the crate.
As an added bonus, setting the crate up couldn’t be easier. You won’t need any tools or DIY skills, and you’ll have your puppy inside in no time.
2. PetMate Pet Kennel
Features
PetMate is one of the most reliable brands in the pet vertical, with almost half a century of experience producing great pet products at keen prices. How does this crate for puppies stand and fall, then?
First, choose from a handful of colorways to suit the temperament of your pooch. You’ll then need to decide between this dinky 19-inch crate or a beefier 24-inch alternative.
Whether you require a training crate for home or a travel crate, your puppy or small breed will be happy and comfortable inside this thing.
Ideal for all animals weighing up to 10 pounds, you could fit adult dogs of many small breeds inside this crate.
If you decide to take your pooch on a trip, this crate is designed to meet the specifications of most airline cargos. You should always verify with the airline before flying to ensure that you are in compliance, though.
Handle the crate with care. If you break the lid of this unit, there are no replacements available, meaning you would need to invest in another crate.
With plenty of ventilation for your furball and few sharp edges, this is one of the most effective, secure, and comfortable crates suitable for puppies and small canine breeds.
3. EliteField Soft Dog Crate
Features
Next up comes a soft and collapsible crate, perfect for those looking for a foldable and portable crate solution for their puppies.
This unit comes in many shapes and sizes, so the first thing you’ll need to do is dial that in. This variant is the smallest of the five size options, perfect for puppies and small dogs weighing up to 15 pounds.
You will also get an overwhelmingly choice of colorways, including this subtle maroon.
The mesh fabric is a dense and rugged way to keep your pup safely inside while at the same time properly ventilated. Build quality is impressive and you can expect plenty of faithful service from this crate.
Access is streamlined by the three available doors on this crate. The cover inside is removable and washable, so Fido can be fresh and clean at all times.
There is a shoulder strap and carrying handle built in, making your life easier if you’re traveling with Rover in tow. You can set the crate up or collapse it in seconds flat.
Backed by a two-year limited warranty, you can expect a lengthy lifespan and seamless service from this multipurpose training crate and travel crate ideal for puppies and most small dogs.
4. MidWest Homes for Pets Dog Crate
Features
Next in line is another entry from the MidWest Homes for Pets stable, but is it any good?
Firstly, and like all crates from this manufacturer, you’ll find that set-up is a breeze. You won’t need any tools and you won’t need any practical skills to get up and running right out the box.
This is a single level crate equipped with double doors for ease of access.
There is a secure latch baked in that will ensure Fido stays secure inside this crate, even if you’re heading on a lengthy trip.
Suitable for puppies and toy breeds weighing up to 12 pounds, you’ll find your new puppy is safe and comfortable inside this crate.
Check the contents of your package closely upon arrival as there are some issues reported with quality control.
There is a removable dividing panel inside that allows you to house two new puppies inside. Take it out if you want a single-space environment for your furball.
The corner clips on this crate are rounded to minimize the chance of your pooch injuring himself on sharp edges.
Overall build quality is solid considering the competitive pricing of the crate, but does it make the right choice for you and your dog?
5. MidWest Homes for Pets New World Dog Crate
Features
Before we explore some other options, here comes another crate from the inimitable MidWest Homes for Pets.
Like all crates in this line, this model is a breeze to set up with no tools and no DIY expertise required.
Suitable for puppies and many extra-small breeds and teacup or toy breeds, this is one of the most versatile crates you’ll find designed with the needs of puppies in mind.
If you need to use this crate as a travel solution, it folds down for ease of transportation. Once your pup is secured inside the crate, the efficient lock will ensure that he stays inside throughout the journey. We would like to see the addition of a carrying handle, though.
Like all wire crates, there will be no issue with ventilation, even if you’re heading on a lengthy trip with your furry friend.
If you need to create two separate spaces inside the crate, take advantage of the removable divider.
Place the removable plastic pan inside and your doggie can take care of his business, allowing you to easily keep on top of cleaning.
The build of this crate is solid, and you can expect a long lifespan from it, assuming you keep it clean and well maintained.
6. Amazon Basics Portable Soft Dog Crate
Features
Amazon Basics is a brand that needs no introduction. Like all products in this expansive range, you’ll get quality on a shoestring budget.
You must first choose from four different sizes, including this small 26-inch crate. The crate comes in only one colorway, a neutral tan.
Like all soft crates for puppies, you might want to avoid this if you have a smaller dog that chews aggressively. Stick with a metal crate for dogs prone to chewing.
Assuming your dog can be trusted with a soft crate, the portable and collapsible nature of this model gives you a versatile solution for home and away. Unlike metal crates, you will not be able to use this outside for extended periods.
There are two doors in place, one on the top and one on the side, promoting easy access. Your puppy will get ventilation from all four sides, too.
Zipper closures are extremely easy to use and allow you to give your pooch plenty of air when you’re on the road.
Note: this product is only suitable for use with puppies who are already crate trained. The manufacturer suggests that breeds like beagles and Boston terriers make a great fit for this soft crate.
7. Precision Pet ProValu Wire Dog C
Features
For puppy owners looking to invest in one of the most cost-effective and long-lasting training crates, we present the Precision Pet ProValu. Is it any good, though?
The first thing you’ll appreciate about this crate is its versatility. Ideal for puppies, small dogs, and other animals weighing up to 30 pounds, you can use this indoors and outdoors carefree.
Made from rust-resistant iron, you should find that this cheap dog crate lasts much longer than some of the more expensive opposition.
Intelligently designed with rounded corners, there are few opportunities here for your pooch to hurt himself while contained inside the crate.
The crate is collapsible for the purposes of storage or travel, giving you a versatile training and transportation solution for puppies, small dogs, and other animals to 30 pounds in weight. The manufacturer suggests that the crate is ideal in this size for Pomeranians and similar small breeds.
There is a five-point locking system in place that will keep Fido secure on long trips.
An adjustable divider panel inside the crate allows you to switch up the environment inside as your puppy grows.
If your dog is an aggressive chewer, you might want to explore some of the other crates above and below, but for most owners of puppies and small dogs, this is one of the cheapest yet most effective dog crates for puppies.
8. Diggs Revol Collapsible Dog Crate
Features
If you need a collapsible dog crate that’s suitable for puppies, consider this excellent option from Diggs Revol. While this brand might not be the first that springs to mind when you’re comparing pet gear, it is well worth taking a chance on an outsider.
The aluminum crate is superlight yet hardwearing and long-lasting. You can use the crate indoors, outdoors, or for travel purposes. The entire crate weighs just 25 pounds.
While you will need to check with the airline before flying, this crate is designed to meet the specifications of most airline cargos. When you need to save space and the crate is not in use, you can fold it down.
You’ll have no problems getting your puppy in and out of this thing thanks to the hatch in the roof. This will also make it challenging for your furball to escape from this thing.
Inside, a removable tray means you can keep on top of maintenance without any hassle. Aside from this, there is little else by the way of upkeep required.
Suitable for puppies, small breeds, and medium breeds, this is a highly versatile crate ideal for training or travel. Does it make the right choice for your puppy or smaller dog?
9. Noz2Noz Soft Krater
Features
Soft dog crates have their pros and cons, so if you feel that a mesh crate fits the needs of you and your pooch, what do you get for your money here?
The first selling point is the ease of assembly. Snap the steel frame into place and the lightweight mesh around it and you’re good to go right out the box.
The canvas nature of construction means that the crate is unsuitable for extended periods of outdoor use.
If you need a canine crate for travel purposes, on the other hand, this is one of the very best options up for grabs. The lightweight construction and collapsible properties mean you can easily transport or store the crate.
When your pooch is inside this thing, he will feel his instincts to create a cozy den kick in.
Rounded corners eliminate much of the risk of your furball hurting himself when in transit.
This is the smallest crate in the range and is ideal for puppies and many small dogs of all life stages. If you have a multi-dog family and you need to cater for bigger pups, choose from three larger sizes to suit.
10. Carlson Pet Products Foldable Dog Crate
Features
As we near the end of our showcase of the best dog crates for puppies, we have another foldable model, this time from Carlson Pet Products.
This crate comes with a single door for the sake of security. Choose from five different sizes to suit. This is the smallest crate ideal for puppies and small dogs weighing up to 25 pounds.
Inside the crate is a full-sized plastic pan that slides in and out so you can easily keep it clean and your furball fresh and happy.
Metal bars should keep most dogs safely inside, but if your pup is prone to chewing heavily, you may need to consider a more robust alternative.
Whether you need to use the crate indoors or outside in the yard, the weatherproof nature means it should give you years of faithful service.
The notable weak point on this crate is the fragile latch. If your dog is prone to pulling regular escape acts, you may want to give this crate a miss. For owners of pups who are more docile and less inclined to escape, this is one of the best bets.
11. Homey Pet Inc. Gold Colored Dog Crate
Features
Do you want a dog crate for puppies that makes a striking visual statement? If so, this metal cage finished in a regal gold will give your furball a safe and elegant den.
This crate is ideal for puppies and most small dogs weighing up to 30 pounds. This makes this model slightly more versatile than some of the options we explore above and below.
This 24-inch crate is the smallest of the four sizes offered by Homey Pet Inc. Does it make the right fit for your hound, though?
The ABS build is solid and long-lasting. The non-toxic coating should inhibit the development of rust or corrosion, even if you leave this crate outside for lengthy spells.
The doors are double latched so you should have no escape issues, even if your pup is prone to pulling a Houdini act. More aggressive pups might work their way through the bars, but most smaller dogs and puppies should find this crate offers the perfect place to snuggle up and create a den.
With a removable insert, you’ll find this crate couldn’t be easier to keep clean, giving you a great overall performer that’s also priced quite keenly.
12. PetMate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier
Features
We have another entry from the PetMate stable before we close today. This brand has been in business for almost fifty years, providing pet owners like you with first class products at competitive prices.
There are three different configurations at your disposal:
- Crate
- Crate and kennel bowl
- Crate and travel kit
This model is the crate only, giving you the keenest possible price and no frills in return.
You’ll next need to decide which size crate makes the snuggest fit for your furball. This is the smallest of the six available options at 21 inches. As such, the crate makes a great den for all puppies and small dogs weighing up to 25 pounds.
If you require a transportation solution, you’ll be reassured to know that the PetMate Sky Kennel is designed to comply with major airline cargo regulations. You should consult the airline directly before flying to prevent any nasty surprises, though.
The crate is well ventilated on all sides and will keep your puppy safer and comfortable, even if you’re making a longer trip. For those who intend to travel with this crate, we recommend purchasing the travel kit. For anyone who simply needs to keep their dog safe when unattended, the base model is more than good enough.
For a durable and secure canine crate suitable for puppies, you can’t go wrong with the PetMate Sky Kennel.
13. PetMate Ultra Vari Dog Crate
Features
We have time for another offering from the PetMate stable before we round out for the day. As you’ll see from the number of models we review from this brand, they are one of the most reputable and well-established manufacturers in the business.
This hard case is ideal for taking your puppy on a long trip, and you could also use it for containment purposes.
There are multiple sizes available. This is the smallest and intended for puppies or small breeds weighing no more than 15 pounds.
As you would expect from a travel crate, this model is designed so that it complies with the cargo specifications of most major airlines.
Made from a weatherproof plastic, this crate can be used indoors or outdoors, as well as for travel purposes.
If you have other small animals like a rabbit or a guinea pig, you could also contain them in this hard travel case when you’re taking them for an appointment at the vets.
14. Ultima Pro Dog Crate
Features
Last but by no means least in today’s roundup of the best dog crates for puppies comes from Ultima in the form of the Pro dog crate. How does it stack up?
The first thing to note is that the spacious crate is suitable for all puppies and smaller dogs weighing up to 25 pounds. This makes it one of the larger crates in this class. If you have a bigger dog as well as a puppy, Ultima also offers a selection of larger crates well worth exploring.
Double doors make it easy to get your dog in or out of the crate without messing around. a carrying handle comes in very useful if you are using this crate to take your dog on a trip, whether across time or across country.
There is a removable plastic insert so you will have no excuse not to stay on top of cleaning this thing.
If you find practical tasks challenging, you may want to consider a different crate. The primary drawback of this model is that it is not easy to put together. If you embrace simple DIY, though, you’ll be rewarded with a rugged and secure crate that’s ideal for indoor and outdoor use, as well as for transportation.
FAQ
1) What type of dog crate works best for a puppy?
There is no universal answer to this question since there is so much variation between dog breeds. The crate you need for a boxer puppy you want to contain at home may be quite different to the crate required to keep a malamute safe and secure on the road. To make your life easier, we have reviews crates in many different styles to suit.
2) Is crate training the most effective approach to training a new puppy?
For most amateur dog owners, crate training offers the most seamless and straightforward method of training a new puppy. This does not automatically mean that your puppy will thrive in a crate, so you might need to experiment.
3) Which is best for a puppy, a crate or a playpen?
A dog crate and a dog playpen are different products created for different purposes. A crate is most effective if you want to train your puppy to sleep and to do his business. A playpen, on the other hand, is ideal if you need to control your puppy’s environment while at the same time giving him space to stretch his legs.
4) What is the optimum size crate for a puppy?
When choosing a dog crate for your new puppy, look for one that is large enough that he will be able to stand, turn, and sleep in comfort. If you want a more versatile crate, there are many adjustable options that allow you to tweak the configuration as Fido grows.
5) How long is it possible to leave my eight-week old puppy in a crate?
Until your puppy is eight weeks old, he will require almost continuous attention. Once he hits that eight week stage, he can be left unattended in a dog crate for one hour for each month of his age, plus one month. This means that a 16-week old puppy can be left alone in a crate for up to five hours.
6) Do I need to put a pee pad inside my puppy’s new crate?
No. One of the primary reasons for using a dog crate outside of transportation is potty training. If you allow your dog to do his business inside the crate, he will not learn how to ask to head outside. Putting a pee pad inside his crate will simply confuse and stress your dog so don’t do this.
Conclusion
We trust that today’s guide has cleared up any confusion concerning puppy crates.
To reiterate, the most critical element when choosing a crate is to think about your intended use. Those who require a safe and comfortable way of transporting their puppy will need a different crate to those who want to leave their dogs safely unattended. We review crates of all styles to make things easier for you.
Let us know in the comments below if your favorite crate failed to make our shortlist and tell us why it is so good.
Also, bookmark GO Boxer Rescue before you head off today and pop back soon. We’ll be updating our content daily throughout the holiday season, so see you soon!