Does your furry giant seem to take up the whole couch? Or perhaps your gentle giant is a master of escape artist, leaving you wondering if there’s a way to give them their own safe space? Choosing the right large dog crate can feel like a big task. You want a crate that’s not too small, not too big, and definitely not flimsy. It needs to be a cozy den for your dog, but also practical for your home and your wallet.
Many dog owners find themselves overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices. What material is best? How do you measure for the perfect fit? And what about those features that seem important but you’re not sure why? It’s easy to feel lost in a sea of wire, plastic, and fabric. You want to make sure your big buddy is comfortable and secure, and that the crate will last.
But don’t worry! This blog post is here to help. We’ll break down everything you need to know to find the ideal large dog crate. You’ll learn how to measure your dog accurately, understand the different types of crates available, and discover key features to look for. By the end of this guide, you’ll feel confident in choosing a crate that your dog will love and that will make your life a lot easier. Let’s dive in and find that perfect haven for your big, beautiful dog!
Our Top 5 Large Dog Crate Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Large Dog Crate Detailed Reviews
1. Amazon Basics Durable
Rating: 9.4/10
Looking for a reliable and spacious home for your large furry friend? The Amazon Basics Durable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Tray is a fantastic option for big breeds. It’s built tough with sturdy metal wire to keep your dog safe and secure. This crate is designed for comfort, allowing your dog to stand up and turn around easily, which is super important for their well-being. Plus, it folds flat, making it a breeze to move or store when you’re not using it.
What We Like:
- Generous Size: The 48-inch size is perfect for large dogs like Bernese Mountain Dogs, Labradors, Rottweilers, and Great Danes.
- Durable Construction: It’s made from strong metal wire that will hold up to your dog’s energy.
- Easy Setup and Storage: The crate sets up in a flash and folds down flat. It even has a handle for easy carrying.
- Secure Containment: A manual door lock keeps your dog safely inside.
- Adjustable Space: A handy divider lets you change the crate’s size as your puppy grows.
- Simple Cleaning: The removable plastic tray slides out for easy cleanup of accidents.
- Secure Tray: A metal hook keeps the plastic tray firmly in place, preventing it from sliding out.
What Could Be Improved:
- Locking Mechanism: While secure, the manual lock requires careful attention to ensure it’s properly engaged every time.
- Tray Security Reminder: Users need to be mindful of the hook to keep the tray secure during daily use.
This Amazon Basics crate offers a solid and practical solution for housing your large dog. It provides security and comfort, making it a worthwhile investment for your pet’s needs.
2. MidWest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single & Double Door iCrate Dog Crate
Rating: 8.6/10
The MidWest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced iCrate Dog Crate is a fantastic option for pet parents seeking a safe and comfortable space for their furry friends. This newly improved crate is designed with your dog’s security and well-being in mind, offering a den-like environment that taps into their natural instincts. It’s built to last and makes travel a breeze.
What We Like:
- Enhanced Security: The patented Paw Block and locking tips on the slide-bolt door latches provide extra peace of mind, keeping your dog safely contained.
- Perfect Fit: This 36.6-inch crate is ideal for medium-sized dogs weighing 40-70 pounds. If your dog is on the larger side, sizing up is recommended for comfort.
- All-Inclusive Package: It comes with everything you need, including a divider panel to adjust the space as your dog grows, a leak-proof pan for easy cleaning, and protective rubber feet to safeguard your floors.
- Easy Setup & Portability: The crate sets up in seconds without tools and folds flat for convenient travel or storage.
- Quality Construction: Durable materials and thoughtful design, like proper ventilation and low thresholds, ensure a safe and comfortable experience for your dog.
- Helpful Support: A customer support team based in Indiana is available to assist you.
What Could Be Improved:
- Size Guidance: While good for many, owners of dogs close to the weight limit should definitely consider the next size up to ensure maximum comfort.
Overall, the MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate is a well-made and secure dog crate that offers great value. It’s a smart investment for creating a safe haven for your dog.
3. Best Pet 48 Inch Dog Crates for Large Dogs Folding Metal Wire Crates Dog Kennels Outdoor and Indoor Pet Dog Cage Crate with Double-Door
Rating: 8.8/10
Give your large furry friend a safe and comfortable space with the Best Pet 48 Inch Dog Crate. This sturdy metal wire crate is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, providing a secure den for your dog. Its thoughtful design ensures your pet’s well-being and your convenience.
What We Like:
- Secure Home: Rounded corners protect your dog. Two large doors, one on the front and one on the side, offer easy access. Two strong slide-bolt latches keep the doors securely shut.
- Easy to Setup: Sets up in seconds with no tools needed. It folds flat for easy storage when not in use.
- Easy to Clean: Comes with a durable, leak-proof ABS composite tray that won’t stain or hold odors. The tray has a raised edge to catch messes.
- Foldable & Portable: The collapsible design makes it great for travel and camping. It folds to less than 3 inches thick and includes a removable carrying handle.
- Great Support: The company offers professional technical support and solutions if you have any problems or questions.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s designed for large dogs, ensure the 48-inch size is truly adequate for your specific breed’s comfort and movement needs.
- The metal construction, while durable, might not be ideal for dogs that are prone to chewing or digging excessively.
This dog crate offers a fantastic combination of safety, convenience, and portability for your large dog. It’s a practical solution for creating a secure environment for your pet at home or on the go.
4. Yaheetech 42 inch Double Door Dog Crate w/Divider for Puppy to Adult XL Collapsible Metal Crate with Removable Tray Wire Dog Kennel for Large Dogs Portable Travel Cage
Rating: 8.5/10
The Yaheetech 42 inch Double Door Dog Crate is a fantastic option for pet owners. It’s designed to grow with your dog, from a tiny puppy to a full-grown adult. This crate offers a safe and comfortable space for your furry friend, whether for training or just a quiet nap. Its smart design makes it easy to use and maintain.
What We Like:
- It’s perfect for puppies and adult dogs alike because of the adjustable divider. This lets you create the right amount of space as your dog grows.
- The crate is portable and easy to store. It folds down flat with a simple buckle and has a handle, making it great for travel or tucking away when not in use.
- It’s a spacious home for medium to large dogs. Breeds like Labradors and Golden Retrievers will have plenty of room to stretch out and relax.
- Cleaning up is a breeze thanks to the pull-out, leak-proof tray. Accidents happen, but this tray catches them and is easy to remove and clean.
- The divider is a great help for potty training. It helps make the space just right for your puppy’s early days.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s designed for large dogs, some extra-large breeds might find it a bit snug for extended periods without the divider.
- The metal construction, while sturdy, could potentially have a few sharp edges if not inspected carefully upon arrival.
Overall, the Yaheetech dog crate is a versatile and practical choice for any dog owner. It provides a safe, adaptable, and easy-to-manage space for your beloved pet.
5. MidWest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single & Double Door iCrate Dog Crate
Rating: 8.6/10
The MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Dog Crate is a fantastic option for dog owners. This newly enhanced crate offers peace of mind with its updated security features. It’s designed to be a safe and comfortable space for your furry friend, whether at home or on the go.
What We Like:
- Enhanced Security: The patented Paw Block and locking tips on the slide-bolt door latches greatly improve safety.
- Perfect Fit: The included divider panel lets you adjust the crate size as your dog grows, ensuring a snug fit for intermediate breeds weighing 40-70 pounds.
- Easy to Use: Assembly is a breeze, requiring no tools. It also folds flat for simple storage and travel.
- Built to Last: The durable, quality construction provides a secure den for your dog.
- Comfort and Safety Features: It boasts proper ventilation, large door openings with low thresholds, and rounded corner clips for a safer experience.
- Extra Perks: The crate comes with a leak-proof pan, floor-protecting feet, a carrying handle, and helpful customer support.
What Could Be Improved:
- Sizing Recommendation: If your dog is on the larger end of the weight range, it’s best to get the next size up to ensure comfort.
Overall, the MidWest iCrate is a well-made and secure option for your dog. It provides a safe haven and is easy to manage for any pet parent.
Your Big Buddy’s Best Home: A Large Dog Crate Buying Guide
Bringing home a large dog is an exciting time! To help your furry friend feel safe and secure, a good crate is essential. This guide will help you pick the perfect large dog crate for your canine companion.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a large dog crate, several features make a big difference.
- Size is King: The crate must be big enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Measure your dog from nose to tail, and add a few inches. Measure from the top of their head to the floor.
- Door Style: Most crates have a single door, but some offer double doors for easier access. Front and side doors can be very handy.
- Portability: If you plan to travel with your dog or move the crate around the house, look for lighter crates or those with handles. Some crates fold flat for easy storage.
- Durability: A sturdy crate withstands your dog’s energy. Strong latches and robust construction are important.
- Ventilation: Good airflow keeps your dog cool and comfortable. Wire crates offer excellent ventilation.
Important Materials
The materials used in a dog crate affect its durability, safety, and ease of cleaning.
- Wire: This is a very popular choice. Wire crates are lightweight, offer great visibility, and provide excellent ventilation. They are also usually foldable.
- Plastic: Plastic crates are sturdy and can be good for travel. They offer more privacy than wire crates, which some dogs prefer. They are also easy to clean.
- Wood: Wooden crates can look like furniture and blend nicely into your home. They are very durable but can be heavier and more expensive.
- Metal (Heavy-Duty): For very strong or escape-artist dogs, heavy-duty metal crates are the best option. They are extremely durable but also heavy and costly.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain things can make a crate better or worse for your dog.
- Sturdy Construction: A well-built crate with strong welds and no sharp edges is crucial. It keeps your dog safe.
- Secure Latches: Latches that are easy for you to open but difficult for your dog to manipulate are a must.
- Ease of Cleaning: Crates with removable trays or smooth surfaces are much easier to clean after accidents.
- Comfort: While the crate itself isn’t a bed, a good crate allows you to add comfortable bedding without it feeling cramped.
- Flimsy Build: A crate with thin wires or weak plastic can bend or break, posing a safety risk.
- Difficult Assembly: A crate that is hard to put together can be frustrating for you and doesn’t offer a good initial experience.
User Experience and Use Cases
How people use their large dog crates shows their value.
- House Training: Crates help with house training because dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping areas.
- Safe Space: A crate becomes your dog’s den, a place where they feel secure and can relax.
- Travel: Many plastic or metal crates are designed for safe travel in cars or airplanes.
- Preventing Destruction: When you can’t supervise your dog, a crate can prevent them from chewing furniture or getting into trouble.
- Anxiety: Some dogs with separation anxiety benefit from a crate as a calming space, but it needs to be introduced properly.
A good large dog crate is an investment in your dog’s well-being and your peace of mind. Choose wisely, and your dog will thank you with happy tail wags!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Large Dog Crates
Q: How do I know if a crate is the right size for my large dog?
A: Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside. Measure your dog from nose to tail and add a few inches for length. Measure from the top of their head to the floor for height. The crate should be at least that tall and a few inches longer.
Q: Are wire crates or plastic crates better for large dogs?
A: Both have pros and cons. Wire crates offer great ventilation and visibility, making them good for everyday use at home. Plastic crates are often more secure for travel and can provide more privacy, which some dogs prefer.
Q: Can I use a crate for an older, large dog?
A: Yes, a crate can still be beneficial for older dogs as a safe and comfortable resting place. Ensure the crate is easily accessible and has soft bedding.
Q: My large dog is very strong. What kind of crate is best?
A: For strong or destructive dogs, a heavy-duty metal crate is usually the best choice. These are built with thicker gauge metal and stronger latches to withstand chewing and pushing.
Q: How do I introduce my large dog to their crate?
A: Make the crate a positive place. Start by leaving the door open and putting treats or toys inside. Feed your dog meals near or inside the crate. Never force them in. Gradually close the door for short periods.
Q: What if my large dog barks or whines in the crate?
A: This can mean they are not ready for the crate or have separation anxiety. Ensure they have enough exercise before crating. Ignore barking if it’s for attention, but check on them if you suspect they need to go to the bathroom.
Q: How easy are large dog crates to clean?
A: Look for crates with removable, washable trays. Wire crates are generally easier to wipe down. Plastic crates are also simple to clean with soap and water.
Q: Can I leave my large dog in the crate all day?
A: No, dogs are social animals and need interaction and exercise. Limit crate time to periods when you cannot supervise them, like during house training or when you leave the house for a few hours.
Q: Do I need a divider for a large dog crate?
A: Dividers are very useful, especially if you buy a crate that is slightly larger than your dog needs now but will fit them as they grow. The divider helps create a cozier space and aids in house training.
Q: Are expensive large dog crates always better?
A: Not necessarily. While higher prices often mean better materials and construction, you can find excellent, durable crates at various price points. Focus on the features and build quality that meet your dog’s needs.
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.