Does your little furry friend deserve a safe and cozy den? Choosing the perfect dog crate for your small dog can feel like a puzzle. There are so many shapes, sizes, and materials out there! It’s easy to get lost trying to figure out what’s best for your pint-sized pal.
You want a crate that’s not too big or too small, one that’s easy to clean, and most importantly, a place where your dog feels secure and happy. It can be tough to know where to start when you’re looking for that ideal spot for your little companion to rest and feel safe.
But don’t worry! By reading on, you’ll discover exactly what to look for. We’ll break down the key features to consider, from the best materials to the right dimensions. You’ll learn how to pick a crate that will become your small dog’s favorite retreat.
Let’s dive in and find the perfect safe haven for your tiny, four-legged family member!
Our Top 5 Dog Crates For Small Dogs Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Dog Crates For Small Dogs Detailed Reviews
1. Midwest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single & Double Door iCrate Dog Crate
Rating: 9.4/10
The Midwest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced iCrate Dog Crate offers a safe and secure space for your furry friend. This crate is designed with your pet’s well-being in mind, featuring new patented security enhancements. It’s perfect for small dogs and can even be used for training or travel.
What We Like:
- Enhanced Security: The new slide-bolt door latch has patented Paw Block and locking tips for extra safety.
- Complete Package: Includes a divider panel, leak-proof pan, protective rubber feet, and a carrying handle.
- Easy to Use: Sets up in seconds with no tools needed and folds flat for easy travel.
- Pet-Friendly Design: Proper ventilation and rounded corner clips ensure a comfortable and safe experience.
- Reliable Support: A customer support team is based in Indiana.
- Durable Construction: Built strong to fulfill your dog’s natural denning instincts.
What Could Be Improved:
- Size Recommendation: It’s important to choose the correct size for your dog; if your dog is on the larger side of the recommended weight, get the next size up.
This iCrate is a fantastic option for providing your small dog with a secure and comfortable den. With its enhanced safety features and user-friendly design, it’s a solid choice for pet owners.
2. Sweetcrispy 24-Inch Single-Door Dog Crate–Durable Metal Pet Kennel with Secure Lock
Rating: 9.2/10
Meet the Sweetcrispy 24-Inch Single-Door Dog Crate, a sturdy and reliable home for your furry friend. This metal pet kennel is built tough for training, travel, or just giving your dog a safe space of their own. It’s designed with both your pet’s comfort and your convenience in mind.
What We Like:
- Durable Metal Construction: Made from strong iron, this crate is built to last and can handle daily use.
- Secure Single-Door Design: The heavy-duty latch on the single door keeps your dog safely inside.
- Easy to Clean with Removable Tray: A handy plastic tray slides out, making it super simple to clean up any messes.
- Foldable and Portable for Convenience: It folds down flat quickly, so you can store it easily or take it with you on trips.
- Comfortable and Safe for Pets: Smooth edges and an open design let your dog see out and get plenty of fresh air, making them feel secure.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Door Options: Only having a single door might not suit all living spaces or training methods.
- Size Suitability: While great for small dogs, larger breeds would need a bigger crate.
This Sweetcrispy dog crate offers a great balance of durability and practicality. It’s a solid choice for pet owners looking for a dependable and easy-to-manage kennel.
3. Sumerflos Clear Acrylic Dog Crate – Modern Dog Kennel Furniture
Rating: 8.6/10
Looking for a stylish and functional home for your small furry friend? The Sumerflos Clear Acrylic Dog Crate is a modern piece of furniture that doubles as a secure and comfortable kennel. It’s designed to blend seamlessly with your home decor while providing a safe space for your pet.
What We Like:
- Premium Quality: It’s made with clear acrylic panels that let you see your pet easily. A strong metal frame keeps the crate stable.
- Secure & Comfortable: The metal door latch keeps your pet safely inside. Plenty of ventilation holes allow for good airflow, keeping your pet comfortable and safe.
- Fits Most Small Pets: With dimensions of 24.05″ L x 17.99″ W x 20″ H, it’s a good size for many small dogs and cats. Just be sure to check your pet’s size before buying.
- Multi-Functional: It’s not just a crate; it can also be a chic side table or coffee table. The smooth, rounded edges are safe for everyone.
- Great Customer Service: The crate comes with easy installation instructions, and their customer service team is ready to help with any questions.
What Could Be Improved:
- Size Limitation: While it fits most small pets, larger small breeds might find it a bit snug. It’s important to measure your pet carefully.
- Acrylic Durability: Acrylic can scratch over time with enthusiastic pets, so close supervision might be needed for chewers.
This Sumerflos Clear Acrylic Dog Crate offers a beautiful and practical solution for pet owners. It’s a great way to keep your pet safe and add a touch of modern style to your home.
4. Amazon Basics Durable
Rating: 9.3/10
Looking for a safe and sturdy place for your furry friend? The Amazon Basics Durable, Foldable Metal Wire Small Dog Crate is a great option for smaller breeds. It’s designed for dogs under 20 inches long and 15.25 inches tall, like Havanese or Pugs. This crate offers a secure space for your pet and makes training and travel much easier.
What We Like:
- It’s made of strong metal wire that will last.
- The crate sets up fast and folds flat for easy storage or carrying.
- A top handle makes it simple to move around.
- It comes with a divider so you can make the inside space just right for your dog.
- The plastic tray slides out, making cleanup a breeze.
- A metal hook keeps the tray from sliding out accidentally.
- The price is very reasonable.
What Could Be Improved:
- The door latch is a simple manual lock, which might not be secure enough for escape-artist dogs.
- While durable, the wire can sometimes be a little sharp if not handled carefully.
- The plastic tray, while easy to clean, might scratch over time.
This Amazon Basics crate is a solid choice for small dog owners. It offers good value and practical features for daily use and travel.
5. MidWest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single & Double Door iCrate Dog Crate
Rating: 8.6/10
The MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate is a fantastic option for dog owners. This newly enhanced crate offers a safe and comfortable space for your furry friend, whether you’re at home or away. It’s designed to mimic a dog’s natural den, giving them a sense of security.
What We Like:
- This pink, small single-door crate is perfect for smaller breeds weighing 13 to 25 pounds.
- It comes with a handy divider panel. This lets the crate grow with your dog, so you won’t need to buy a new one as they get bigger.
- The crate measures 24″ L x 18″ W x 19″ H, offering a good amount of space.
- It’s built tough to keep your dog safe and sound.
- A strong slide-bolt latch keeps the door securely closed, so your dog stays put.
- Assembly is super easy and takes no time at all. No tools are needed!
- The crate folds flat, making it easy to store or take with you on trips.
- Roller feet protect your floors from scratches and make moving the crate simple.
- It includes a leak-proof pan, which is great for accidents.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the pink color is cute, other color options might appeal to more people.
- The “new patented features” are not specified, leaving customers to wonder what’s truly new.
Overall, the MidWest iCrate is a reliable and convenient choice for providing your dog with their own secure space. It’s a smart investment for any dog owner looking for quality and ease of use.
Choosing the Best Dog Crate for Your Small Pup
When you bring a new small dog home, a crate can be a lifesaver. It’s a safe den for your dog and a helpful tool for training. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? This guide will help you find the perfect crate for your little furry friend.
Key Features to Look For
Size Matters
The most important thing is the size. Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Too big, and they might use one end as a potty area. Too small, and it’s not a safe space. Measure your dog from nose to tail and from the ground to the top of their head.
Durability and Security
A good crate should be sturdy. It needs to keep your dog safe inside. Look for strong latches that your dog can’t easily open. The bars or walls should be strong enough so your dog can’t bend or break them.
Ventilation and Visibility
Your dog needs to breathe easily and see out. Most crates have bars or mesh sides for good airflow. This also lets your dog see you, which can make them feel more secure.
Ease of Cleaning
Accidents happen, especially during training. A crate with a removable tray at the bottom makes cleaning up much simpler. You can slide it out and wash it easily.
Portability and Storage
Do you plan to travel with your dog? Some crates fold flat for easy storage and transport. This is great if you need to move the crate around the house or take it on trips.
Important Materials
Wire Crates
Wire crates are very popular. They offer excellent ventilation and visibility. They are usually lightweight and fold for storage. However, they might not be the best for dogs who chew a lot, as they can chew the wire.
Plastic Crates
Plastic crates offer a more den-like feel. They are durable and easy to clean. Some dogs feel more secure in them. They are good for travel because they are sturdy. The downside is they can be heavier and have less ventilation than wire crates.
Fabric Crates
Fabric crates are soft and cozy. They are lightweight and good for travel or indoor use. They are often used for older dogs or those who are already crate-trained. However, they are not suitable for chewers or dogs who are not fully potty-trained, as they can be damaged.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Build Quality
The way the crate is put together matters. Look for smooth welds on wire crates and no sharp edges. For plastic crates, check for sturdy construction. A well-built crate will last longer and keep your dog safer.
Latch Design
A secure latch is vital. Simple slide bolts can sometimes be opened by clever paws. Crates with double-latch mechanisms or more complex latches offer better security.
Comfort Features
While the crate itself is important, comfort adds to the quality. Some crates come with dividers, allowing you to adjust the space as your puppy grows. Others have comfortable flooring or attachment points for bedding.
User Experience and Use Cases
Crate Training
A crate is a fantastic tool for house training. It teaches your dog to hold it and prevents accidents when you can’t supervise. It also provides a safe space for your dog to relax and sleep.
Travel Companion
For car trips or flights, a sturdy plastic crate is often required by airlines and is the safest option. It keeps your dog secure and contained.
A Safe Haven
Even well-behaved dogs need their own space. A crate can be a cozy den where your dog can retreat when they feel overwhelmed or just want some quiet time. This is especially helpful if you have a busy household.
Reducing Anxiety
For dogs with separation anxiety, a crate can be a comforting den. When used correctly with positive reinforcement, it can help them feel safe and secure when left alone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best type of crate for a small dog?
A: The best type depends on your dog’s needs. Wire crates offer good airflow and visibility. Plastic crates are sturdy and good for travel. Fabric crates are soft and portable.
Q: How do I measure my small dog for a crate?
A: Measure your dog from nose to tail and from the ground to the top of their head. Add a few inches to each measurement for comfort.
Q: Can my small dog chew through a wire crate?
A: Some small dogs, especially puppies, can chew on wire crates. If your dog is a strong chewer, a sturdier wire crate or a plastic crate might be a better choice.
Q: Should I get a crate that is too big so my puppy can grow into it?
A: No, it’s best to get a crate that is the right size now. You can buy a larger crate and use a divider to make it smaller until your puppy grows.
Q: How long should my small dog be in a crate?
A: Puppies need frequent potty breaks and should not be left in a crate for too long. Adult dogs can often stay in a crate for a few hours, but always make sure they have water and are not distressed.
Q: What if my dog doesn’t like the crate?
A: Start slowly with positive reinforcement. Put treats and toys in the crate and let your dog explore. Never force your dog into the crate.
Q: Do I need a special crate for travel?
A: For air travel, you will likely need an airline-approved plastic crate. For car travel, a sturdy crate of any type can help keep your dog safe.
Q: How do I clean a dog crate?
A: Most crates can be cleaned with mild soap and water. Removable trays make this much easier. Always dry the crate thoroughly.
Q: Are there any safety concerns with dog crates?
A: Ensure there are no sharp edges or loose parts. The latch should be secure to prevent escape. Make sure the crate is well-ventilated.
Q: Can I leave my small dog in a crate all day?
A: No, dogs are social animals and need interaction and exercise. Leaving a dog in a crate all day can lead to boredom, anxiety, and health problems.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.