Dog Crates and Wire Cages: A Practical Buying Guide
A crate is one of the most used pieces of dog gear in a home. It gives your dog a defined resting spot, helps with house training routines, and keeps things tidy when you are out of the room. But crates come in different sizes, door layouts and materials, and the wrong pick is annoying to live with. This guide covers how to choose, what to look for, and how to set one up.
Below you will find general buying advice, followed by the crates and cages we carry at PetLavo, with prices as listed.
How to Size a Dog Crate
Sizing is the single most important decision. These are the common rules of thumb used by most owners and trainers:
- Measure your dog, not the label. Measure nose to base of tail for length, and floor to top of head (or ears, if they stand up) for height.
- Add a few inches. Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably. A crate that is far too big loses the cozy "den" feel, and a crate that is too small is uncomfortable.
- Plan for puppies. If you are buying for a growing puppy, pick a size for the adult dog and use a divider panel (if the crate includes one) or a temporary barrier to shrink the space for now. Check the product listing to see whether a divider is included before you count on it.
- Mind the stated size. Crate sizes are usually quoted in inches by length. A 30" crate and a 36" crate are very different footprints, so check your floor space too.
If your dog is between sizes, going up one size is usually the safer choice for comfort, as long as the space still works in your room.
Wire Cages vs. Heavy Duty Crates
Wire cages are the classic option. The open bars give your dog a view of the room and let air move through. They are generally simple to wipe down, and many styles are designed to fold for storage. Add a crate cover or a blanket over part of the top if your dog likes a darker, quieter corner.
Heavy duty crates use thicker construction, often with a welded frame, and are meant for owners who want something sturdier. They tend to cost more and take more floor space, but they are built for stronger or more determined dogs.
Whichever you choose, run your hand along the inside. There should be no sharp edges, rough weld points or gaps where a paw or collar could catch.
Door Types: Single, Double and Why It Matters
- Single door: Simple and compact. Works well when the crate sits against a wall and you only need one way in and out.
- Double door: Gives you two access points, which helps when the crate sits in a corner or when you want flexibility in how you place it. You can put the crate in the living room one month and move it to a bedroom the next without being blocked by a wall.
- Latches and locks: Look for a latch that is easy for you to operate with one hand but not simple for a dog to push open. Double-lock or double-latch designs add another layer of security.
Features Worth Checking Before You Buy
- Removable tray: A slide-out tray makes cleaning much easier than reaching into the crate.
- Wheels: Casters make it easy to move a heavier crate for vacuuming. Lockable wheels matter so the crate does not roll when your dog moves around.
- Handles: Useful on lighter cages that you plan to move or fold.
- Footprint and weight: Check where it will live before you order.
- Cleaning: Metal bars and a plastic or metal tray wipe clean with mild soap and water. Let everything dry fully before putting bedding back.
Crates and Cages We Carry
Here are the dog crates and cages currently in our catalog, listed with their prices.
Wire cages
- 36" Black Wire Dog Cage with Double-Lock Mechanism, Two Doors, Two Handles is $199.99. This 36-inch black wire cage has a double-lock mechanism, two doors and two handles. It is the step up in size if the 30-inch looks too tight for your dog.
Dog crates
- Single-Door Dog Crate, 24"–30" is $97.99. It is a single-door crate offered in 24" and 30" sizes, described for crate training and rest at home. Choose your size carefully when ordering.
- Heavy Duty Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Lockable Wheels & Double Door, Black is $311.99. It is a black crate with four caster wheels (two of them lockable), a removable tray and double-door access, listed for medium and large dogs.
- 36" Heavy Duty Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Lockable Wheels & Double Door, Black is $311.99. A 36" black crate with welded metal tube construction, a removable tray, lockable wheels and two latched doors, listed for medium and large dogs.
Helpful extras
- Foldable Dog Gate for Doorways is $199.99. Handy for keeping the crate area separate from the rest of the house.
- Washable Reusable Pee Pads for Dogs, 36 x 41 in (2 Pack) is $101.99. A washable, reusable option for the floor around your dog's area.
- Hard-Sided Dog and Cat Travel Carrier with Handle, Beige Grey is $79.79. A carrier for trips, which is a different job from a home crate.
Who These Are Not For
- Very small dogs and toy breeds. The smallest crate we list is the 24" option, which may be more space than a tiny dog needs.
- Anyone shopping on a tight budget. The heavy duty crates are our priciest options. If you only need a basic resting spot, a wire cage may be enough.
- Small apartments. The 36" crates need real floor space. Measure first.
- Frequent travelers. Home crates are not a substitute for a proper travel carrier. For car trips, look at a carrier built for that purpose.
- Dogs who are distressed in confinement. A crate is a tool for routine and rest, not a fix for every behavior problem. Talk to a qualified trainer if your dog struggles with it.
Setup Tips
- Pick the spot carefully. Choose a quiet corner of a room where the family spends time, away from direct sun, heaters and drafty doors.
- Make it comfortable. Add a washable bed or mat that fits the floor of the crate. Remove anything your dog tends to chew apart.
- Introduce it slowly. Leave the door open at first, toss a treat inside, and let your dog explore on their own terms.
- Keep it positive. Use the crate for naps, calm time and meals, never as punishment.
- Build up time gradually. Start with short stretches while you are home, then lengthen them.
- Check hardware regularly. Make sure latches close fully, bolts engage and wheels (if present) are locked.
- Clean on a schedule. Pull the tray, wash it, wipe the bars, dry everything and reassemble.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size crate should I buy for my dog?
Measure your dog from nose to base of tail and from floor to top of head, then add a few inches so they can stand, turn and lie down. If your dog falls between sizes, going up one size is generally more comfortable, provided it fits your space.
Are double-door crates better than single-door ones?
Not always, but they are more flexible. A double door gives you two access points, which helps in tight corners or if you plan to move the crate around. A single door is fine if the crate has a permanent spot against a wall.
Should I choose a wire cage or a heavy duty crate?
A wire cage is a good everyday choice for most homes, with open sides and simpler cleaning. A heavy duty crate suits owners who want sturdier construction and are happy to pay more and give up more floor space.
How do I keep a crate clean?
Pull out the removable tray if there is one, wash it with mild soap and water, wipe down the bars, and let everything dry completely before putting bedding back. Wash bedding on a regular schedule.