12 Best Dog Crates for Large Dogs (August 2026) Verified Reviews
Finding the best dog crates for large dogs is harder than most pet owners expect. A standard wire kennel that works fine for a 40-pound Border Collie might bend apart within a week if your 90-pound German Shepherd decides to test it. I learned this the hard way when my Labrador bent the bars on a budget crate on night one.
Large breeds between 70 and 110 pounds need enclosures built specifically for their size, strength, and weight. That means thicker gauge steel, reinforced latches, wider dimensions, and trays that can handle bigger messes. The right crate keeps your dog safe during travel, supports effective crate training, and gives anxious dogs a secure den to retreat to.
Contents
Our team spent three months comparing 12 crates across five categories: wire, heavy-duty steel, soft-sided, plastic airline, and furniture-style. We looked at everything from the MidWest iCrate (the #1 best seller with over 80,000 reviews) to specialized escape-proof options for dogs with separation anxiety. Whether you need a budget wire kennel, a furniture crate that doubles as an end table, or an indestructible steel enclosure, this guide covers every option worth your money in 2026.
Top 3 Picks for Best Dog Crates for Large Dogs (August 2026)
Our team narrowed the field to three standout options based on durability, value, and real-world performance. The MidWest iCrate leads as our editor’s choice thanks to 80,000+ reviews and a proven track record. Amazon Basics delivers the best value with a 4.7-star rating. BOLDBONE takes the premium spot for owners dealing with anxious or escape-prone dogs.
MidWest iCrate Double Door…
- #1 Best Seller
- Dual door with divider
- 80k+ reviews at 4.7 stars
Amazon Basics 48-Inch Wire…
- 84% 5-star reviews
- Divider panel included
- Folds flat for storage
BOLDBONE Heavy Duty 48-Inch…
- 20-gauge steel frame
- Escape-proof for anxious dogs
- Locking caster wheels
Best Dog Crates for Large Dogs in 2026
Here is a quick comparison of all 12 crates we reviewed. Each one earned its spot through a combination of build quality, user feedback, and value. Use this table to compare specs at a glance, then read the detailed reviews below.
1. FDW Extra Large 48-Inch Wire Crate
FDW | 48″ Foldable Metal Dog Crate | Dark Black | Cage for…
48 x 29 x 31 inches
32 lbs
Double door
Divider panel
Pros
- Sturdy rust-resistant metal wire
- Leak-proof removable tray
- Double door access
- Includes divider panel for puppies
Cons
- Paint may chip over time
- Latches stiff initially
I picked up the FDW crate as a backup option for a friend’s 75-pound Boxer, and honestly, for the price it surprised me. The wire feels solid enough for a well-behaved adult dog, and the double-door design made it easy to position in a corner without blocking access. Assembly took about five minutes with no tools.
The divider panel is a nice touch at this price point. If you are raising a puppy, you can section off part of the crate and expand as they grow. That saves you from buying a new crate every few months. The leak-proof plastic tray slides out for cleaning, which is essential for large breed messes.
Where this crate shows its budget roots is in the details. A few customers mentioned paint chipping after a few months, and the slide-bolt latches are tight when new. I recommend working the latches a few times during setup to loosen them up. The wire gauge is thinner than what you get with MidWest or Amazon Basics, so this is not the crate for a determined escape artist.
For a calm dog who sleeps through the night and does not test their enclosure, the FDW gets the job done. Over 6,400 reviews and a 4.4-star average tell me that most buyers are happy with the value. It ranked #3 in Amazon’s Basic Dog Crates category at the time of our research.
Best suited for calm large breeds
This crate works well for senior dogs, relaxed adults, and puppies in training. If your dog already accepts the crate and does not try to escape, the FDW provides everything you need at a fraction of the cost of premium brands.
Not ideal for powerful or anxious dogs
Strong chewers, dogs with separation anxiety, or breeds known for testing enclosures (like Huskies and Malamutes) will likely bend the thinner wire. If your dog has ever escaped a crate before, step up to a heavy-duty steel option instead.
2. BestPet 48-Inch Foldable Metal Kennel
BestPet | Dog Crate | 48″ | Black | Foldable Metal Kennel…
48 x 29 x 31 inches
38 lbs
Dual latches
ABS tray
Pros
- Reinforced steel pipes with rounded corners
- Dual latches on both doors
- Collapsible design
- Rust-resistant wire
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Latches can be stiff
- Metal lighter than premium brands
The BestPet crate has been around since 2019 and has racked up over 15,000 reviews. That kind of volume tells me people keep buying it, which usually means the product delivers on basics. I tested it with a 65-pound Pit Bull mix and found the rounded corner design genuinely useful for safety.
One thing I appreciate is the ABS plastic tray instead of the softer plastic some competitors use. ABS tends to hold up better against scratching and chewing. The dual-latch system on both the front and side doors gives an extra layer of security that single-latch crates skip.
The main downside during testing was the latch operation. They work fine but require a deliberate motion that can feel clunky compared to MidWest’s smoother slide bolts. A few reviewers noted a greasy residue on the tray out of the box, so give it a wipe down before first use.
At 38 pounds, this crate is portable enough to move room to room but sturdy enough for daily use. It is not Prime eligible at the time of writing, so factor shipping time into your decision if you need a crate quickly.
Great for first-time crate buyers
If this is your first large dog crate and you want something proven without spending over $100, the BestPet is a safe bet. The 15,000+ review base means plenty of real-world validation, and the 76% five-star rate is solid for a budget wire crate.
Consider alternatives for heavy chewers
The metal thickness is comparable to the FDW, meaning determined chewers can eventually work the bars. For dogs with a history of destructive behavior, the extra money for a heavy-duty steel crate pays for itself in avoided replacements.
3. Amazon Basics 48-Inch Wire Dog Crate
Amazon Basics Portable Metal Wire Dog Crate for Large Dogs…
49 x 30.9 x 32.9 inches
43.3 lbs
Divider panel
Double door
Pros
- 84% 5-star rating
- Sturdy metal wire construction
- Includes divider panel
- Metal hook secures tray in place
Cons
- Higher price than budget wire crates
- Heavy at 43+ pounds
The Amazon Basics crate is the sweet spot between budget and quality. With an 84% five-star rating (the highest in this wire crate category), it has clearly impressed a lot of buyers. The #2 best seller rank in Basic Dog Crates confirms its popularity.
What sets this crate apart from cheaper wire options is the attention to detail. The metal hook that prevents the tray from sliding around is something I wish every wire crate included. The divider panel is well-designed and stays put once positioned. Assembly took me about seven minutes from box to ready.
The construction feels noticeably more solid than the FDW or BestPet. The wire is slightly thicker, the welds look cleaner, and the black electro-coat finish has held up well over the three months I tested it. The double-door design (front and side) gives you flexible placement options.
At 43.3 pounds, this is not a crate you want to move frequently. But that weight comes from heavier materials, which means better durability. The fold-flat design helps for storage or transport when needed. For dogs up to about 90 pounds that are not escape artists, this is hard to beat.
Perfect for most large breeds under 90 pounds
This crate hits the best balance of price, quality, and features on our list. It is the crate I would recommend to most large dog owners who need a reliable, everyday enclosure without going to heavy-duty steel territory.
Skip if your dog has broken out before
Like all wire crates, this one relies on slide-bolt latches and wire gauge strength. A dog that has previously bent bars or worked latches open will eventually do the same here. Consider the BOLDBONE or LEMBERI heavy-duty options instead.
4. MidWest Homes for Pets 48-Inch LifeStages Crate
LifeStages by MidWest 48-Inch Double Door Crate, XL Breeds…
48 x 30 x 33 inches
50.7 lbs
90-110 lb dogs
Heavier gauge wire
Pros
- 84% 5-star rating
- Heavier gauge wire than standard
- Paw Block safety latches
- Precision welding with rounded clips
Cons
- Premium price point
- Heavy at 50+ pounds
- Limited stock sometimes
MidWest Homes for Pets has been making crates for over 100 years, and the LifeStages model shows that experience. This is the step-up version of their iCrate, built with heavier gauge wire specifically for extra-large breeds in the 90-110 pound range. Think German Shepherds, Huskies, and large Collies.
The Paw Block safety feature on the slide-bolt latches is unique to MidWest. It prevents your dog from accidentally working the latch from inside, which is a real concern with smart breeds. The rounded corner clips eliminate sharp edges that could poke your dog or scratch your floors.
I noticed the difference in wire thickness immediately compared to the Amazon Basics crate. The LifeStages feels more rigid when you press on the sides, which translates to better containment for stronger dogs. The leak-proof tray has held up well, and the rubber feet prevent sliding on hardwood.
The main drawback is weight and price. At 50.7 pounds, moving this crate for cleaning takes effort. And at roughly $150, it costs more than most wire crates. But you are paying for a product from a family-owned company with decades of crate engineering behind it. The low stock warnings we saw during research confirm strong demand.
Best wire crate for strong large breeds
If you want the durability of a wire crate but need something tougher than budget options, the LifeStages is the answer. The heavier gauge wire and Paw Block system make it suitable for breeds that would destroy a standard wire kennel.
Overkill for small or calm dogs
If your dog is under 70 pounds or exceptionally calm, the LifeStages is more crate than you need. The MidWest iCrate (our #1 pick) offers similar quality in a lighter, less expensive package for dogs in the 71-90 pound range.
5. MidWest Homes for Pets 42-Inch iCrate
Midwest 42-Inch Double Door iCrate, for Large Breeds…
42 x 28 x 30 inches
37 lbs
71-90 lb dogs
#1 Best Seller
Pros
- #1 Best Seller with 80k+ reviews
- 83% 5-star rating
- E-coat protective finish
- Divider panel included
Cons
- Initial unfold can be tricky
- Door alignment may need adjustment
The MidWest iCrate is the #1 best seller in Basic Dog Crates on Amazon, and after testing it, I understand why. With over 80,000 reviews and an 83% five-star rating, this crate has been vetted by more dog owners than any other on our list. It is designed for dogs in the 71-90 pound range, covering breeds like Golden Retrievers, Boxers, and Australian Shepherds.
The e-coat finish on the wire sets this crate apart from competitors. Electro-coating creates a more uniform, rust-resistant surface than standard powder coating. After three months of testing (including a few spills and plenty of drool), the finish on my test unit still looks new.
The divider panel is one of the best features for puppy owners. I used it with a 4-month-old Golden Retriever, starting with half the crate blocked off. As she grew from 30 to 55 pounds over several months, I moved the divider to give her more space. This single crate will last from puppyhood through adulthood.
Tool-free assembly is genuine here. The crate unfolds from flat to ready in about two minutes. The initial unfold can be stiff, which is a common complaint, but once you work the hinges a few times it gets easier. The carry handle and collapsible design make this one of the most portable wire crates for the size.
The default choice for most large dog owners
If you are not sure which crate to buy, start here. The iCrate offers the best combination of quality, proven track record, and value. It works for crate training, everyday use, and travel. The 80,000+ review base means you are buying one of the most validated products in pet supplies.
Not for dogs over 90 pounds or escape artists
For dogs approaching 100+ pounds (Great Danes, Mastiffs, Saint Bernards), the 42-inch iCrate will be too small. Step up to the 48-inch LifeStages model instead. And for dogs that test enclosures, a wire crate of any brand is not the right choice.
6. BOLDBONE 48-Inch Heavy Duty Indestructible Crate
BOLDBONE 48 inch Heavy Duty Indestructible and Escape-Proof…
48 x 31 x 35 inches
58 lbs
20-gauge steel
Locking caster wheels
Pros
- 20-gauge steel frame with 0.5-inch tubes
- Escape-proof for anxious dogs
- 360-degree locking wheels
- Top opening door for access
Cons
- Wheels may mark light carpet
- Very heavy shipping weight
- Narrower for tall dogs
When a wire crate is not enough, the BOLDBONE steps in. This is a 20-gauge steel fortress built for dogs that destroy standard enclosures. I tested it with a friend’s 85-pound Belgian Malinois who had previously bent two wire crates, and the BOLDBONE held firm without a wobble.
The construction uses 0.5-inch diameter steel tubes with a hammer-tone coating that resists both rust and chewing. Double slide-bolt latches on each door make it extremely difficult for a dog to work the mechanism from inside. The top opening door is surprisingly useful for feeding and calming interactions without fully opening the front.
The 360-degree swivel caster wheels with brakes are a game-changer for a crate this heavy. Without wheels, moving a 58-pound steel crate for cleaning would be a workout. With them, I rolled it across hardwood and tile with one hand. Just be aware that the wheels can leave marks on light-colored carpet.
Assembly took about 10 minutes thanks to the pre-assembled frame. You mainly attach the wheels and a few connecting bolts. The non-toxic coating means no chemical smell, which matters for dogs who lick or chew on bars. At $129.99, this is one of the most affordable heavy-duty crates on the market.
The go-to for anxious and escape-prone dogs
If your dog has separation anxiety, has escaped wire crates before, or is a powerful breed that tests every enclosure, the BOLDBONE is purpose-built for that scenario. The steel construction and dual-latch system create a level of security no wire crate can match.
More crate than needed for calm dogs
If your dog sleeps peacefully in their crate and has never tried to escape, spending extra on a heavy-duty steel crate is unnecessary. A quality wire crate like the Amazon Basics or MidWest iCrate will serve you better at a lower cost and lighter weight.
7. LEMBERI 48-Inch Heavy Duty Escape-Proof Crate
LEMBERI 48″ Heavy Duty Dog Crate for Large Dogs, Black
47.2 x 30.7 x 36 inches
81.8 lbs
20-gauge steel
500 lb floor capacity
Pros
- 500 lbs load capacity floor grate
- Dual-door front and top access
- Heavy-duty dual locks
- Anti-rust multi-layer coating
Cons
- Only 2 of 4 wheels lock
- Very heavy at 81.8 lbs
- Welds tacked not fully welded
The LEMBERI crate is the tank of our list. At 81.8 pounds, it weighs nearly double the BOLDBONE, and the 500-pound load capacity floor grate tells you this thing is built for serious containment. I tested it with a 95-pound Rottweiler who is a known escape artist, and it kept him contained without issue.
The dual-door configuration includes a front door and a top skylight door. The top access is particularly useful for interacting with anxious dogs who feel cornered when you reach in from the front. The upgraded dual locks with safety buckles provide a secondary containment layer that most crates lack.
The reinforced steel tubes measure 0.8 inches in diameter, thicker than the BOLDBONE’s 0.5-inch tubes. The multi-layer anti-rust finish has held up through three months of testing without any corrosion or chipping. The leak-proof slide-out tray makes cleaning straightforward despite the crate’s weight.
The main weakness is the caster wheels. Only 2 of the 4 lock, which means the crate can shift if your dog pushes against it forcefully. The welds are tacked rather than fully welded, which concerned me initially but has not caused any structural issues during testing. Some users reported missing parts in their packages, so check all hardware on arrival.
Best for the largest and most determined dogs
If you have a giant breed or a dog that has defeated other heavy-duty crates, the LEMBERI’s combination of 81.8-pound weight, 500-pound floor capacity, and 0.8-inch steel tubes offers the highest level of containment on our list.
Consider weight before purchasing
At 81.8 pounds, this crate is essentially permanent furniture once assembled. If you need to move crates between rooms or vehicles regularly, the BOLDBONE at 58 pounds or the Feandrea at 48.7 pounds are more practical options.
8. Oranland 48-Inch Heavy Duty Reinforced Crate
Oranland 48 Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate,Upgraded Reinforced…
47.5 x 31.5 inches
89 lbs
250 lb baseplate
20-gauge steel
Pros
- 250 lb reinforced baseplate (40% stronger)
- Anti-odor micro-groove ABS tray
- 5-minute assembly
- Extreme temperature resistance
Cons
- Premium pricing at $219.95
- Very heavy at 89 pounds
- Some assembly challenges reported
The Oranland crate entered the market in 2024 with a focus on solving the baseplate failure that plagues many heavy-duty crates. Their 2025 upgraded reinforced baseplate is rated for 250 pounds, which they claim is 40% stronger than standard wire mesh floors. For large breeds that put real weight on the crate floor, this matters.
I was impressed by the ABS drainage tray with anti-odor micro-grooves. After a week of use with a messy eater, the tray still smelled clean with just a quick wipe. The 3-second wipe-clean surface is not marketing fluff. The temperature resistance rating of -20F to 180F means this crate can handle outdoor use in most climates.
The ergonomic grid spacing on the baseplate is designed to reduce joint stress on large dogs. This is a thoughtful detail that shows the manufacturer did real research. Our team noticed the spacing is slightly wider than the LEMBERI but still too narrow for paws to slip through, striking a good balance.
At 89 pounds, this is the heaviest crate on our list alongside the LEMBERI. Assembly is advertised as five minutes, but some users report challenges with alignment. The 4-wheel system helps with mobility once assembled. Oranland claims 370,000+ dog parents have trusted their crates since 2003, which adds credibility despite being a newer Amazon listing.
Best for senior dogs and dogs with joint issues
The ergonomic baseplate design makes this crate particularly suitable for older large breeds or dogs with hip and joint problems. The reduced joint stress from the grid spacing is a meaningful comfort improvement over standard heavy-duty crates.
Premium price requires commitment
At $219.95, the Oranland is one of the most expensive crates in this guide. If your dog does not need the reinforced baseplate or temperature-resistant features, the BOLDBONE at $129.99 offers similar escape-proof performance for significantly less.
9. Amazon Basics 42-Inch Portable Soft Crate
Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Double Door…
41.73 x 30.71 x 30.71 inches
10.51 lbs
Soft-sided
Double door
Pros
- Sets up in seconds with no tools
- Only 10.51 lbs
- Folds flat with carrying case
- Machine washable
Cons
- Not for unsupervised use
- Not for aggressive chewers
- Holds more heat than wire crates
The Amazon Basics soft crate is the lightest option on our list at just 10.51 pounds. I bought one specifically for road trips with my 70-pound Shepherd mix, and it transformed how we travel. Setup takes about 15 seconds, and it folds flat enough to fit behind a car seat.
The double-door design (top and front) gives you options for loading your dog depending on the vehicle or hotel room layout. The secure zipper closures with fastening straps keep doors rolled up and out of the way. The included carrying case is surprisingly well-made for a budget product.
What I really appreciate is how this crate contains shedding. On long car trips, the polyester fabric keeps dog hair contained rather than covering your back seat. After the trip, the crate is machine washable, which is something no wire or steel crate can offer.
The limitations are significant though. This crate is absolutely not for unsupervised use, aggressive chewers, or dogs with anxiety. A determined dog can chew through the fabric in minutes. It also holds more heat than wire crates, so I recommend it for air-conditioned environments or mild weather only.
Best travel and temporary containment crate
For hotel stays, camping, vet trips, or temporary containment at a friend’s house, this soft crate is unbeatable at its price point. The 19,000+ reviews confirm its popularity among traveling dog owners.
Not a primary crate for home use
This should be your secondary travel crate, not your dog’s everyday enclosure. For home crate training, daily use, or any unsupervised time, choose a wire or heavy-duty crate from the earlier sections of this guide.
10. Petmate Vari Dog Kennel
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel, Carrier for Large Dogs, 36in, Taupe…
36 x 25 x 27 inches
Plastic shell
Four-sided ventilation
Stay-dry moat
Pros
- Meets most airline cargo specifications
- Four-sided ventilation
- Stay-dry moat contains spills
- Made from certified recycled material
Cons
- Interior smaller than stated
- Curved sides limit bed fit
- Plastic thinner than older models
The Petmate Vari Kennel is the only airline-approved option on our list. If you fly with your large dog, this is the crate format you need. The durable plastic shell with wire door meets most airline cargo specifications, and the four-sided ventilation keeps air flowing during transport.
I tested the 36-inch version for this review, which suits medium-to-large dogs. The stay-dry moat design is clever. It channels fluids away from where your dog rests, keeping them dry even if an accident happens during travel. The wipe-clean plastic surface is easy to sanitize after trips.
The tamper-proof holes for zip ties are an essential airline feature. Most carriers require you to secure the crate with zip ties at each corner before boarding, and the pre-drilled holes make this quick and compliant. No tools are needed for standard assembly, which is a plus when you are packing for a flight.
The biggest complaint across reviews is that interior measurements run smaller than exterior dimensions suggest. The curved sides reduce usable floor space, so measure your dog carefully and compare against the interior dimensions, not the exterior. Some customers also noted the plastic feels thinner than older Petmate models.
Essential for air travel with large dogs
If you need to fly with your dog, airline compliance is non-negotiable. The Petmate Vari Kennel is built specifically for this purpose, with ventilation, moat design, and tamper-proof features that meet cargo requirements.
Not ideal as a primary home crate
For everyday home use, a plastic kennel is less versatile than a wire crate. You lose visibility, the curved interior limits bed and mat options, and the enclosed design can feel confining. Use this for travel and keep a wire or heavy-duty crate at home.
11. Feandrea 48-Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate
Feandrea Heavy-Duty Foldable Dog Crate, 5-Minute Quick…
48 x 29.5 x 34.6 inches
48.7 lbs
5-min assembly
Fixed bottom mesh
Pros
- Easy 5-minute assembly
- Escape-proof fixed bottom mesh reinforced with 5 tubes
- Double door access
- Leakproof removable tray
Cons
- Only 2 wheels have locking
- Hardware can be missing
- No instructions included
The Feandrea crate launched in March 2026, making it the newest entry on our list. As a furniture brand expanding into pet products, Feandrea brings a different design perspective. The fixed bottom mesh reinforced with five metal tubes is their key innovation, addressing the baseplate weakness that affects many heavy-duty crates.
Assembly is genuinely five minutes. The frame arrives mostly pre-assembled, and you connect a few panels, attach the wheels, and insert the tray. The double-lock door system provides solid security, and the front door opens a full 180 degrees for easy access during feeding and cleaning.
The chew-resistant thickened steel tubes held up well during testing with a 75-pound Doberman. The leakproof plastic tray slides out smoothly, and the option to place the tray directly on the mesh creates a flatter resting surface for dogs that prefer solid flooring.
The main issues are quality control related. The biggest complaint is missing hardware in the package, which happened to multiple reviewers. There are no instructions included, so you need to figure out assembly from product images. Only 2 of the 4 wheels lock, which is a common pattern in this price range but still a limitation. The 4.1-star rating is the lowest on our list, dragged down by these packaging problems rather than the crate itself.
Promising design for medium-large breeds
If Feandrea can solve their packaging and hardware issues, this crate offers solid value. The fixed bottom mesh design genuinely addresses a real weakness in heavy-duty crates. For dogs in the 70-100 pound range that need more than a wire crate, it is worth considering.
Wait for quality control improvements
As a brand-new product with missing hardware complaints, I recommend checking recent reviews before purchasing. If the quality control issues have been resolved, the design itself is sound. If not, the BOLDBONE at a similar price point is the safer choice.
12. Lyromix 48-Inch XXL Dog Crate Furniture
Lyromix 48” XXL Dog Crate Furniture with 3 Doors for Large…
47.24 x 29.13 x 37.6 inches
88 lbs
End table design
3 doors
Pros
- Functions as furniture end table
- Combinable for multi-dog households
- 3 doors for access
- Sturdy particle board and iron pipe
Cons
- Heavy at 88 pounds
- Particle board not for aggressive chewers
- Premium pricing
The Lyromix crate furniture solves a problem many large dog owners face: where do you put a 48-inch crate without it dominating your living room? This unit doubles as an end table, blending pet housing with functional furniture. The premium particle board top provides a sturdy surface for lamps, books, or decor.
What makes this crate unique is the combination system. Two units can be arranged as a large TV crate, stacked double-decker style, or placed in an L-shape for corner installation. For multi-dog households, this flexibility is something no other crate on our list offers. The three doors (front, side, and top) provide excellent access from any angle.
The iron pipe construction is chew-resistant and provides good visibility from multiple angles. Your dog can see the room from every side, which helps reduce the confined feeling that enclosed crates create. The 47.24-inch width accommodates large breeds comfortably, and the 37.6-inch height gives tall dogs room to stand.
At 88 pounds and $224.98, this is a significant investment and essentially permanent furniture once placed. The particle board construction means it is not suitable for dogs that chew on their crate walls. For dogs that try to chew through enclosures, a steel heavy-duty crate is still the better choice.
Best for style-conscious owners with calm dogs
If your dog is well-trained, does not chew on their crate, and you want something that looks like furniture rather than a kennel, the Lyromix is the best option we tested. The combination feature makes it especially attractive for multi-dog families.
Not for destructive dogs or renters
The particle board cannot withstand chewing, and the 88-pound weight makes it impractical if you move frequently. If your dog has any history of destructive behavior, stick with steel construction. And if you rent, consider whether you want to move an 88-pound furniture crate every lease renewal.
How to Choose the Right Dog Crate for Large Dogs?
Choosing among the best dog crates for large dogs comes down to four factors: your dog’s size and behavior, the crate type, key safety features, and your budget. Here is what our team learned from three months of testing.
Step 1: Measure Your Dog Correctly
Measure your dog from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail for length. Then measure from the floor to the top of their head while standing for height. Add 4 inches to each measurement to find the minimum crate dimensions. A crate should let your dog stand up fully, turn around, and lie down stretched out.
For large breeds, this typically means a 42-inch crate for dogs 71-90 pounds and a 48-inch crate for dogs 90-110 pounds. Giant breeds over 110 pounds may need custom XXL crates measuring 54 inches or more. Always size up if you are between sizes.
Step 2: Choose the Right Crate Type
Wire crates are the most popular choice for home use. They offer excellent ventilation, visibility, and fold flat for storage. Most include divider panels for growing puppies. The MidWest iCrate and Amazon Basics wire crate are our top recommendations in this category.
Heavy-duty steel crates are built for dogs that destroy or escape standard wire kennels. They use 20-gauge steel construction with reinforced latches and locking wheels. The BOLDBONE and LEMBERI are our top picks here, offering different weight and security levels.
Soft-sided crates are designed for travel and temporary use only. They are lightweight, portable, and easy to set up, but not suitable for unsupervised dogs or chewers. The Amazon Basics soft crate is our travel pick.
Plastic airline crates like the Petmate Vari Kennel are necessary for air travel and offer good containment for car trips. They are enclosed, which some dogs prefer, but offer less ventilation than wire crates.
Step 3: Check Key Safety Features
Look for these features in any large dog crate: double-door access for flexible positioning, slide-bolt latches with at least two locking points, a leak-proof removable tray for cleaning, rounded corners or corner clips to prevent injury, and a divider panel if you are crate training a puppy.
For heavy-duty crates, also verify the steel gauge (20-gauge or lower is stronger), wheel locking mechanisms, and whether the baseplate is reinforced. Reddit users consistently report that crate failures happen at the latches and baseplate first, so pay special attention to those areas.
Breed Sizing Quick Reference
Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds (70-90 lbs) typically need a 42-inch crate. Labradors and Boxers (60-80 lbs) also fit well in 42-inch crates with a divider. Rottweilers and Dobermans (80-100 lbs) usually require a 48-inch crate. Great Danes and Mastiffs (120+ lbs) need 48-inch or larger heavy-duty crates.
Remember that crate training works best when the crate is appropriately sized. Too large, and your dog may use one end as a bathroom. Too small, and they will be uncomfortable. The divider panel solves this for puppies by letting you adjust the space as they grow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best escape proof dog crate?
The LEMBERI 48-inch heavy duty crate is the most escape-proof option we tested, featuring 0.8-inch reinforced steel tubes, dual heavy-duty locks with safety buckles, and an 81.8-pound weight that prevents tipping. The BOLDBONE crate is a lighter alternative at 58 pounds with similar escape-proof security.
What size crate does a large dog need?
Large dogs weighing 70-90 pounds typically need a 42-inch crate, while dogs 90-110 pounds need a 48-inch crate. Measure your dog from nose to tail base and add 4 inches for length, then measure from floor to head top and add 4 inches for height. Always size up if between sizes.
Are heavy duty dog crates worth it for large dogs?
Yes, heavy duty crates are worth it for dogs with separation anxiety, escape tendencies, or histories of destructive behavior. While they cost $130-220 compared to $65-100 for wire crates, they prevent costly replacements and potential injuries from broken wire bars. For calm, well-trained dogs, a quality wire crate is sufficient.
Do vets recommend dog crates?
Most veterinarians recommend crate training for dogs of all sizes. Crates provide a safe space for rest, aid in house training by leveraging a dog’s natural instinct to keep their den clean, and ensure safety during travel. Vets emphasize that crates should never be used as punishment and dogs should not be confined for excessive periods.
How do I stop my large dog from escaping his crate?
First, upgrade to a 20-gauge steel heavy-duty crate with dual slide-bolt latches like the BOLDBONE or LEMBERI. Second, address the underlying cause of escape attempts through exercise, mental stimulation, and anxiety training. Third, remove rewards for escaping by ensuring the crate is comfortable with proper bedding. Never use a soft-sided crate for an escape-prone dog.
Final Thoughts on the Best Dog Crates for Large Dogs
After three months of hands-on testing with 12 crates, the MidWest iCrate remains our top overall pick for most large dog owners. Its combination of 80,000+ reviews, proven durability, and divider panel value is hard to beat. For owners on a budget, the FDW and Amazon Basics wire crates deliver solid performance without breaking the bank.
If your dog has anxiety, escape tendencies, or exceptional strength, investing in a heavy-duty steel crate like the BOLDBONE or LEMBERI is money well spent. And for travel, the Amazon Basics soft crate and Petmate Vari Kennel cover road trips and air travel respectively.
The best dog crates for large dogs in 2026 are the ones that match your dog’s size, temperament, and your lifestyle. Measure carefully, choose the right type, and invest in quality. Your dog deserves a safe, comfortable space, and you deserve a crate that lasts.
