Which crates are best for large dogs?

Many dogs love the secure feeling that comes from sleeping or relaxing in a crate, but you may be left wondering which crates are best for large dogs. Not only do big dogs need spacious crates, but they also need crates that feel sturdy enough to hold them. 

Your chosen dog crate should be safe and secure for your canine companion. Luckily, you have plenty to choose from. Once you know what to look for, you're bound to find one that's right for you and your dog.

In this article: Noz2Noz Soft-Krater Soft Crate for Pets, Paws and Pals Double-Door Dog Crate and Unipaws Furniture-Style Dog Crate.

What size crate does my dog need? 

Size is one of the most important factors when buying a crate for a large dog. Most crates come in sizes up to 48 inches, but you can find some even larger options that reach up to 54 inches. These are great for giant breeds. The measurement given is the length of the crate, but you should also pay attention to the height. 

To find the right size, measure your dog from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, while standing, and from the ground to the top of the head while sitting. Add 4 inches to these measurements to find the optimal crate size. 

Types of dog crates

You'll find four main types of dog crates: wire crates, metal crates, furniture crates and soft crates. 

• Wire crates: These basic crates are made from heavy gauge wire. They're generally affordable and strong enough to hold most dogs, but some need stronger versions.
• Metal crates: Metal crates have thick metal bars instead of a wire construction. They're ideal for extremely strong dogs and escape artists. On the downside, they're expensive and relatively heavy.
• Furniture crates: Furniture-style dog crates double as end tables and are great for use in rooms where standard crates would ruin the aesthetic. However, you have to search carefully for extra-large options.
• Soft crates: These crates are made from fabric, so they're light and great for traveling. Some people also prefer them for day-to-day use, but not all are rugged enough for this. 

What to look for in a dog crate

These are some of the features you might want from your chosen crate. 

• Foldability: Many crates are foldable so you can pack them down when you aren't using them. This is especially handy with large crates that take up a lot of space. 
• Portability: Some have handles or wheels to make them easier to move. Soft crates are also lighter and more easily portable than heavier options.
• Latch: It's important that the latch is secure and locks effectively so your dog can't escape. However, it shouldn't be tricky for humans to open quickly when they need to. 
• Pan: The base of a crate often has a metal or plastic pan or a water-resistant base. This is useful in case of any accidents.

Best crates for large dogs

MidWest Ultima Pro Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate

Thanks to the thick, heavy gauge wire, this crate feels sturdy enough for big dogs, and it comes in sizes up to 48 inches. The included divider panel is great if you're buying a crate for a puppy who's going to turn into a large dog.

Sold by Chewy

Noz2Noz Soft-Krater Soft Crate for Pets

If you're looking for a soft crate instead of a metal or wired one, this is a great choice with sizes up to 42 inches. It is rugged yet lightweight and has a heavy-duty water-resistant base and three entry points.

Sold by Amazon

Frisco Ultimate Lightweight Heavy Duty Crate

With heftier construction than your average wire crate, this version is ideal if you're looking for something that isn't too flimsy. Sizes range from 37 to 54 inches to accommodate most medium and large dogs, and the wheels make it easier to move around your home.

Sold by Chewy

MidWest Homes for Pets Ovation Folding Dog Crate

This crate features two doors: one standard and one extra-large that lifts up like a garage door, so it's great for dogs reluctant to get inside. You can choose from sizes up to 48 inches, all of which come with dividers.

Sold by Amazon

Paws and Pals Double-Door Dog Crate

The dual-door design makes it easier to get your dog in and out of the crate, while the latches are secure but easy to open. It's simple to set up and fold away when not in use with no tools required.

Sold by Amazon

Frisco Heavy Duty Enhanced Lock Wire Dog Crate

The one-step enhanced locking mechanism is easy to operate but incredibly secure with dual locks on larger models. Sizes range up to 48 inches, and a handy divider is included.

Sold by Chewy

MidWest Homes for Pets New World Double Door Dog Crate Kit

Not only do you get a crate in this kit, but a crate cover that's good for nervous dogs and a comfy crate pad as well. You can choose from a range of sizes up to 48 inches.

Sold by Amazon

Lucky Dog Sliding Double Door Wire Dog Crate

Thanks to the sliding door, it's easier to fit this crate into tight spots and leave the door open if your dog prefers to go in and out as it pleases. It has a leakproof base and comes in sizes up to 48 inches to fit most big dogs.

Sold by Chewy

Unipaws Furniture-Style Dog Crate

This furniture-style crate is ideal if you want something that fits in more stylishly with the rest of your furniture. The large size is around 41 inches long, so it won't fit the very largest of dogs, but it's suitable for a lot of big breeds.

Sold by Amazon

DogGoods Do Good Foldable Travel Dog Crate

Measuring 48 inches long, this large foldable soft crate is perfect for travel but sturdy enough for everyday home use as well. It has mesh sides for ventilation with roll-down shades for when your dog needs peace and quiet.

Sold by Chewy

Otaid Heavy Duty Metal Dog Crate

With extra-solid metal bars, this crate is perfect for canine escape artists and strong dogs. The 48-inch size suits most large breeds, and it comes in casters to make it easier to move from place to place.

Sold by Amazon

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