12 Best Plastic Dog Crates for 2026
The 12 best plastic dog crates for 2026 depend on your dog’s size and how you’ll use the crate.
For travel, you can compare hard-sided carriers from Amazon Basics and Petmate, including models with front and top doors.
At home, options include durable kennels, foldable crates, and furniture-style designs.
Measure your dog and check interior dimensions, ventilation, door security, and cleaning features before choosing. Explore the options below to find a crate that fits your pet and routine.
| Amazon Basics 2-Door Hard-Sided Pet Travel Carrier |  | Best for Small Pets | Product Type: Hard-sided pet travel carrier | Dimensions: 22.8 × 15 × 13 in | Pet Fit: Cats or medium dogs, 12–20 lb | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Petmate Vari Dog Kennel Carrier for Large Dogs 40in Taupe and Black |  | Best for Large Dogs | Product Type: Plastic dog kennel | Dimensions: 40 × 27 × 30 in exterior | Pet Fit: Large dogs, 70–90 lb | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Midwest 30-Inch Single Door iCrate for Medium Breeds 21-40 lbs |  | Best Training Crate | Product Type: Metal-wire dog crate | Dimensions: 30.5 × 19.25 × 21.5 in | Pet Fit: Medium dogs, 21–40 lb | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| DUMOS 24 Inch Dog Crate Foldable Puppy Small Dog Cage Pet Kennel |  | Best Foldable Crate | Product Type: Metal-wire dog crate | Dimensions: 24 × 16.5 × 18.5 in | Door Access: Single door | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Petmate Two Door Plastic Pet Kennel for Small Dogs and Cats 19in White |  | Best Airline-Ready Carrier | Product Type: Plastic pet kennel | Dimensions: 19.4 × 10 × 12.8 in | Pet Fit: Small dogs and cats, 0–15 lb | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Petmate Vari Dog Kennel Portable Pet Carrier Taupe and Black 28in |  | Best for Medium Dogs | Product Type: Plastic dog kennel | Dimensions: 28 × 20.5 × 21.5 in exterior | Pet Fit: Dogs, 20–30 lb | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Collapsible Dog Crate with Wheels for Small Dogs |  | Best Rolling Crate | Product Type: Collapsible dog crate | Dimensions: 27.96 × 18.3 × 20.87 in | Door Access: Latch-secured door | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| YITAHOME 29″ Dog Crate w/Door Latch Multi-Functional Dog Crate Furniture |  | Best Furniture-Style Crate | Product Type: Plastic crate furniture | Dimensions: 29.3 × 21.1 × 25.2 in | Pet Fit: Small-to-medium breeds | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Midwest 24-Inch Pink Single Door iCrate for Small Breeds 12-20 lbs |  | Best for Small Breeds | Product Type: Metal-wire dog crate | Dimensions: 24 × 18 × 19 in | Pet Fit: Small dogs, 12–20 lb | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Amazon Basics 2-Door Hard-Sided Pet Travel Carrier |  | Best Compact Carrier | Product Type: Hard-sided pet travel carrier | Dimensions: 19 × 12.6 × 10 in exterior | Pet Fit: Cats or extra-small dogs, up to 11 lb | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Bifanuo 40-Inch Heavy-Duty Dog Crate Furniture |  | Best Heavy-Duty Furniture Crate | Product Type: Plastic crate furniture | Dimensions: 39.4 × 32.6 × 28.4 in | Door Access: Lockable door | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Collapsible Rolling Plastic Dog Kennel with Wire Door |  | Best Collapsible Kennel | Product Type: Collapsible plastic kennel | Dimensions: 30.6 × 22 × 23.3 in | Pet Fit: Medium pets up to 50 lb | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Amazon Basics 2-Door Hard-Sided Pet Travel Carrier
With front and top entry, this carrier suits small pets who benefit from flexible loading and easy access. You can carry it by the built-in handle. The top door swings left or right, while the front door offers another loading route. A plastic shell and steel wire doors form the carrier.
Screws secure its top and bottom sections, and spring-loaded latches let you operate the doors one-handed. Ventilation openings on the sides, top, and back support airflow. For a cat or medium-sized dog weighing 12 to 20 pounds, choose a size by measuring your pet’s height and length; use weight as a reference. It measures 22.8 × 15 × 13 inches.
- Product Type:Hard-sided pet travel carrier
- Dimensions:22.8 × 15 × 13 in
- Pet Fit:Cats or medium dogs, 12–20 lb
- Door Access:Two doors; front and top entry
- Construction:Plastic shell and steel-wire doors
- Portability:Built-in carrying handle
- Additional Feature:Spring-loaded door latches
- Additional Feature:Screws secure shell
- Additional Feature:Multi-side ventilation
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel Carrier for Large Dogs 40in Taupe and Black
The Petmate Vari Dog Kennel suits large dogs weighing 70–90 pounds, with a sturdy shell and secure wire door. Its four-sided ventilation supports airflow and visibility during trips. The easy-open door has tamper-proof zip-tie holes, a security feature required for air travel.
The kennel meets most airline cargo specifications, though you should confirm your carrier’s rules. Inside, your pet has 36.2-by-24.7-by-28.8-inch space. When messes happen, you can wipe the sturdy plastic shell clean; a stay-dry moat directs fluids away from your dog. Use it for puppy housebreaking or to keep your pet dry while traveling on your longer trips.
- Product Type:Plastic dog kennel
- Dimensions:40 × 27 × 30 in exterior
- Pet Fit:Large dogs, 70–90 lb
- Door Access:Wire door
- Construction:Sturdy plastic shell and wire door
- Additional Feature:Airline cargo specifications
- Additional Feature:Tamper-proof zip-tie holes
- Additional Feature:Stay-dry moat
Midwest 30-Inch Single Door iCrate for Medium Breeds 21-40 lbs
MidWest’s 30-inch single-door iCrate suits medium breeds and makes a smart training crate for puppies that need room to grow. With dimensions of 30.5 × 19.25 × 21.5 inches, it fits dogs weighing 21–40 pounds, including French Bulldogs, Welsh Terriers, and Dachshunds. If your dog nears 40 pounds, choose the 36-inch model for space.
Precision-welded wire, rounded clips, and a Paw Block slide-bolt latch help prevent snags and escapes. The rust-resistant e-coat handles wear, while a leak-proof tray and rubber feet make cleanup easier. Adjust the divider as your puppy grows, assemble the crate easily, and carry it by its handle.
- Product Type:Metal-wire dog crate
- Dimensions:30.5 × 19.25 × 21.5 in
- Pet Fit:Medium dogs, 21–40 lb
- Door Access:Single door
- Construction:Precision-welded metal wire
- Portability:Carry handle
- Additional Feature:Paw Block latch
- Additional Feature:Leak-proof tray
- Additional Feature:Adjustable divider panel
DUMOS 24 Inch Dog Crate Foldable Puppy Small Dog Cage Pet Kennel
For small puppies and dogs, the DUMOS 24-inch crate is a standout foldable choice for easy storage and travel. Its black, rust-resistant wire finish and rounded corners help protect your pet, your floors, and the crate itself. A wide, low-threshold doorway makes entry easy, while the sliding-bolt latch helps keep the door secure.
You can remove the deep-lipped plastic tray for simple cleanup; it resists stains, warping, corrosion, and odors. The included divider lets you adjust the living area as your puppy grows or separate pets by size. When you’re done, fold the crate flat and carry it by its handle.
- Product Type:Metal-wire dog crate
- Dimensions:24 × 16.5 × 18.5 in
- Door Access:Single door
- Construction:Metal wire
- Portability:Folds for storage and transport; carrying handle
- Additional Feature:Removable deep-lip tray
- Additional Feature:Adjustable divider panel
- Additional Feature:Folds under three inches
Petmate Two Door Plastic Pet Kennel for Small Dogs and Cats 19in White
Small dogs and cats up to 15 pounds get a compact, airline-ready carrier in Petmate’s 19-inch kennel. Its 19.4-by-10-by-12.8-inch interior gives your pet room to stand, turn, and lie down, with space for a cushion. You can load your companion through the front steel door, secured by an easy-squeeze latch, or use the second door for added access.
Ventilation holes deliver fresh air and 360-degree visibility, while the foldable handle helps you carry it. The den-like plastic shell cleans easily, and a stay-dry moat channels fluids away. Made in the USA, it meets most airline cargo specifications for travel.
- Product Type:Plastic pet kennel
- Dimensions:19.4 × 10 × 12.8 in
- Pet Fit:Small dogs and cats, 0–15 lb
- Door Access:Two doors; front-loading access
- Construction:Plastic shell and steel doors
- Portability:Foldable handle
- Additional Feature:Airline cargo specifications
- Additional Feature:Stay-dry moat
- Additional Feature:Den-like interior
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel Portable Pet Carrier Taupe and Black 28in
The Petmate Vari 28-inch kennel suits medium dogs weighing 20–30 pounds, with room to walk and lie down. Its interior measures 24.2 by 18.2 by 19.5 inches, while the taupe-and-black exterior is 28 by 20.5 by 21.5 inches. Four-sided ventilation gives your dog airflow and visibility during travel, and the kennel meets most airline cargo specifications. You can secure the sturdy, easy-open wire door, with tamper-resistant zip-tie holes for added security.
The plastic shell wipes clean, and a stay-dry moat directs fluids away from your pet. Petmate has made pet products for over 60 years.
- Product Type:Plastic dog kennel
- Dimensions:28 × 20.5 × 21.5 in exterior
- Pet Fit:Dogs, 20–30 lb
- Door Access:Wire door
- Construction:Plastic shell and wire door
- Portability:Portable kennel
- Additional Feature:Tamper-resistant zip-tie holes
- Additional Feature:Stay-dry moat
- Additional Feature:Four-sided ventilation
Collapsible Dog Crate with Wheels for Small Dogs
With two smooth-rolling wheels, Gardner Pet’s collapsible crate suits small-dog owners who need an easy-to-move option for home or travel. It measures 27.96-by-18.3-by-20.87 inches and has a modern finish. Its one-piece design unfolds or folds in seconds without tools, then lies flat for compact storage. Two side handles and rolling wheels help you move it between rooms or pack it for trips.
Use it indoors, during travel, or for temporary outdoor containment. PE and metal wire create a stable resting place, while squeeze-latch locks secure the door. Rounded corners help reduce pinching and sharp edges. During setup, align the front and rear panels, pull firmly to confirm they’re locked, and keep the crate from slipping to protect your fingers and arms.
- Product Type:Collapsible dog crate
- Dimensions:27.96 × 18.3 × 20.87 in
- Door Access:Latch-secured door
- Construction:PE and metal wire
- Portability:Folding design, wheels, and handles
- Additional Feature:Two rolling wheels
- Additional Feature:Folds in seconds
- Additional Feature:Rounded corners
YITAHOME 29″ Dog Crate w/Door Latch Multi-Functional Dog Crate Furniture
For style-minded owners, YITAHOME’s 29-inch crate brings furniture-worthy function to small and medium dogs. Its 29.3-by-21.1-by-25.2-inch interior gives your pet room to stand, turn, and stretch, while the brown finish can complement your décor as a side table or nightstand. Use it indoors, on a patio, or in a garage.
Ventilation and a lock-ready latch support bedtime, training, and travel. UV-stabilized polypropylene resists cracking, warping, and fading; stainless steel screws and snap locks add stability, even in humid or coastal settings. You can assemble the panels in about 15 minutes and wipe the smooth surface clean.
- Product Type:Plastic crate furniture
- Dimensions:29.3 × 21.1 × 25.2 in
- Pet Fit:Small-to-medium breeds
- Door Access:Lock-ready door latch
- Construction:UV-stabilized polypropylene
- Additional Feature:Furniture-style side table
- Additional Feature:UV-stabilized polypropylene
- Additional Feature:Humidity-resistant construction
Midwest 24-Inch Pink Single Door iCrate for Small Breeds 12-20 lbs
Midwest’s 24-inch pink iCrate suits small-breed dogs weighing 12-20 pounds, including Chihuahuas, Pugs, and Fox Terriers. Its 24 × 18 × 19-inch footprint fits many small dogs, but if yours is near 20 pounds, consider the 30-inch model for extra room.
You’ll get sturdy, precision-welded wire with a pink e-coat designed to resist rust and daily wear. Rounded clips and a Paw Block slide-bolt latch help reduce snags and escapes. A leak-proof tray, rubber feet, carry handle, and tool-free assembly add convenience. Use the adjustable divider as your puppy grows.
Large openings and low thresholds can make crate training easier. MidWest Homes for Pets backs this model with US-based customer service.
- Product Type:Metal-wire dog crate
- Dimensions:24 × 18 × 19 in
- Pet Fit:Small dogs, 12–20 lb
- Door Access:Single door
- Construction:Metal wire
- Portability:Carry handle
- Additional Feature:Pink rust-resistant finish
- Additional Feature:Paw Block latch
- Additional Feature:Leak-proof tray
Amazon Basics 2-Door Hard-Sided Pet Travel Carrier
This compact carrier suits cats and extra-small dogs up to 11 pounds, including Chihuahuas and toy poodles. Measure your pet’s height and length before choosing a size; weight is only a guide. The Amazon Basics carrier measures 19 × 12.6 × 10 inches outside, with an interior of 15.7 × 7.36 × 9.25 inches.
You can load your pet through the front or top door. The top door swings open to either side, making access convenient. A durable plastic shell, steel-wire front door, and screws securing the top and bottom provide a sturdy design. Ventilation openings on the sides, top, and back help air circulate. The gray-and-blue model is 6009-S-APL.
- Product Type:Hard-sided pet travel carrier
- Dimensions:19 × 12.6 × 10 in exterior
- Pet Fit:Cats or extra-small dogs, up to 11 lb
- Door Access:Two doors; front and top entry
- Construction:Plastic shell and steel-wire door
- Additional Feature:Two-way swinging top door
- Additional Feature:Screws secure shell
- Additional Feature:Multi-side ventilation
Bifanuo 40-Inch Heavy-Duty Dog Crate Furniture
The Bifanuo 40-inch combines a heavy-duty plastic kennel with end-table style for a practical furniture-crate option. You get a usable tabletop surface plus a crate your medium or large dog can actually lounge in, measuring 39.4″ D × 32.6″ W × 28.4″ H. It works indoors or outdoors, and the lockable door keeps your pup secure while the chew-resistant plastic holds up to daily scratching and biting.
You’ll assemble it tool-free, thanks to labeled parts and clear instructions—no experience needed. Cleanup’s simple too: just wipe the smooth surface with a damp cloth, and it resists stains, dirt, and odors.
- Product Type:Plastic crate furniture
- Dimensions:39.4 × 32.6 × 28.4 in
- Door Access:Lockable door
- Construction:Heavy-duty plastic
- Additional Feature:Doubles as end table
- Additional Feature:Chew-resistant surface
- Additional Feature:Tool-free assembly
Collapsible Rolling Plastic Dog Kennel with Wire Door
For kennel-trained medium pets, SportPet Designs’ collapsible kennel stands out for easy storage and transport. Its lightweight plastic shell folds flat, and a built-in handle makes carrying it easier. The 30.6-by-22-by-23.3-inch kennel suits pets up to 28 inches long, 21 inches tall, and 50 pounds.
Measure your pet from nose to rump and floor to ear tips; choose a larger option if they can’t sit, stand, and turn comfortably. A twist-lock wire door secures your pet, while ventilation slots provide airflow and visibility. Use it at home, in the car, or for vet visits—not airline travel.
- Product Type:Collapsible plastic kennel
- Dimensions:30.6 × 22 × 23.3 in
- Pet Fit:Medium pets up to 50 lb
- Door Access:Twist-lock metal gate
- Construction:Plastic body and metal wire door
- Portability:Folds flat; built-in carrying handle
- Additional Feature:Folds flat
- Additional Feature:Twist-lock metal gate
- Additional Feature:Not airline-approved
Factors to Consider When Choosing Plastic Dog Crates
Choose a crate that fits your dog comfortably, with enough ventilation for steady airflow. Check that the door opens easily and secures firmly, and choose durable material that suits your needs. You’ll also want a design that’s easy to clean and maintain.
Size and Pet Fit
Before selecting a plastic dog crate, measure your dog from nose to rump and from the floor to the top of the ears, then compare those measurements with the crate’s usable interior dimensions.
Check whether the listed dimensions describe the interior or exterior; outside measurements can make a crate seem roomier than it is. Your dog should be able to stand upright, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but excessive extra space isn’t necessary.
Use weight ranges only as a rough guide, since dogs of the same weight can differ in height and length. If your pet sits near the upper end of a crate’s recommended weight range, consider choosing larger. Before buying, match usable space against your dog’s measurements rather than relying on a label alone.
Ventilation and Airflow
Once the crate fits your dog, check how well air can move through it. Look for vents on several sides, including the top and back, so air can circulate rather than stagnate in one area. Openings on all four sides can improve airflow and give your dog more visibility during travel.
Before placing the crate, check whether a wall or nearby luggage will block any vents. Choose ventilation suited to where and how long you’re using the crate; travel may call for more airflow, especially on longer trips.
Still, don’t assume bigger openings are always better. Pick a design that balances circulation with sturdy construction and openings small enough to help contain your dog. Check the layout in its usual position at home first.
Door Access and Security
How easily can your dog enter, and how securely does the door close? Choose an arrangement that fits your dog’s needs. A front door works for pets, while a second door on top can make lifting a small dog in or out easier. Check that the opening gives your dog room to pass through without awkward squeezing.
The latch should stay shut if your dog paws at the door, yet remain simple for you to operate. Squeeze latches and spring-loaded mechanisms can offer access. Inspect the door fasteners, too, and consider tie-down holes if you’ll use the kennel for travel.
Before each use, confirm that the door’s fully latched and that the crate’s panels and fasteners are secure. Don’t assume a closed-looking door is locked.
Material and Durability
Choose a crate with a sturdy plastic shell that resists cracking, warping, and everyday wear. A tough shell helps your dog’s crate hold its shape through regular use. Inspect the door, latches, and fasteners, too; steel wire and metal hardware withstand handling better than flimsy components.
Check how the crate’s sections connect. Screws or reinforced locks can hold them firmly together, reducing the chance that joints loosen when you move or use the crate. If you’ll keep it outdoors or in a humid space, look for materials and finishes that resist corrosion, fading, and moisture damage. These features help preserve strength and appearance over time. Prioritize solid construction throughout, not just a thick-looking shell, so you can choose a crate built for dependable use.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Because regular cleaning helps keep a crate fresh, look for smooth, non-porous plastic you can wipe with a damp cloth. Choose a model with a removable tray so you can clear spills without taking the crate apart. A deep-lipped tray helps contain messes, while a stay-dry moat can channel fluids away from your dog. These features simplify cleanup, but you’ll still need access to every area.
Look for materials and finishes that resist stains, warping, corrosion, and pet odors; these qualities help the crate stay clean through regular use. Make sure you can access the door, latches, and ventilation openings to wipe away grime and inspect for buildup. Clean those spots often, since residue can collect around hardware and airflow gaps during routine cleaning.
Portability and Storage
If you need to store or transport a crate, look for a model that folds flat or collapses. Many plastic crates stay rigid, so check the product’s folded thickness and dimensions before buying. A compact design can fit in a closet or trunk, while some wire models fold to less than three inches thick.
If you’ll move the crate between rooms or take it on trips, weigh it and look for carrying features such as built-in handles. Wheels can help you reposition a crate around your home, but test the latches to make sure they keep it securely closed as you move it. For travel, compare its assembled dimensions with your vehicle’s available space, and confirm you can carry or stow it securely before departure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Plastic Dog Crates Permitted as Checked Baggage on Airlines?
Sometimes, airlines accept plastic dog crates for checked pet travel, but you must meet their size, ventilation, locking, and labeling rules. Check your carrier’s current policy before booking, since requirements and availability vary widely, too.
How Can I Help My Dog Feel Comfortable in a New Crate?
Make the crate inviting by adding your dog’s familiar blanket and treats. Keep the door open, feed meals inside, and let your dog explore at their pace. Reward calm behavior, then gradually increase closed-door time.
How Often Should I Clean a Plastic Dog Crate?
Clean your plastic dog crate weekly, and spot-clean messes immediately. If your dog sheds, drools, or has accidents, wash it more often. Use mild soap, rinse thoroughly, and dry every surface completely before use again.
Can a Plastic Crate Be Used Safely in a Car?
Yes, you can use a plastic crate in your car, but choose a crash-tested model and secure it tightly. Keep it ventilated, away from airbags, and never leave your dog unattended inside for long periods.
When Should I Replace a Cracked or Damaged Plastic Crate?
Replace your plastic crate as soon as you notice cracks, broken latches, warped panels, or sharp edges, and don’t use it meanwhile. Damage can worsen quickly, letting your dog escape or get injured during travel.
Conclusion
Choosing the right plastic dog crate starts with your dog’s size, comfort, and travel needs. Compare door access, ventilation, durability, portability, and cleaning before you buy. A secure fit helps your dog feel settled at home or on the road. Whether you’re looking for a compact carrier or a roomy kennel, prioritize safe construction and easy-to-use features.
Choose a model that suits your routine, and you’ll give your dog a dependable space to rest comfortably.
