Folding Wire & Metal Crates
Folding wire crates are one of the most common choices for use at home. Their open construction provides good ventilation and allows your dog to see what is happening around them.
Many models fold flat for storage or transport, have a removable tray for easier cleaning, and some include a divider panel that can be repositioned as a puppy grows.
They can be a good choice for:
- Everyday use at home
- Dogs that are comfortable in a more open crate
- Puppies when the crate has a suitable divider
- Owners who want a crate that can be folded away when not required
Things to consider
Wire crates vary considerably in construction and quality. Check the door catches, spacing between the bars, overall stability and the manufacturer’s sizing information before buying.
If your dog persistently bends bars, damages the crate or tries forcefully to escape, simply buying another ordinary wire crate may not solve the underlying problem.
Heavy-Duty Dog Crates
Heavy-duty crates use stronger frames and more substantial doors and fastenings than ordinary folding wire crates. They are generally heavier and less convenient to move, but may suit owners looking for a more robust crate for home use.
They can be a good choice for:
- Larger or stronger dogs where a more substantial crate is appropriate
- Owners wanting something more robust than a standard wire crate
- Dogs that have previously damaged a lightweight crate
- Situations where portability is less important
Things to consider
Heavy-duty crates can be considerably heavier and more expensive than standard wire crates, so check the internal dimensions, construction, door design and locking mechanism carefully.
A heavy-duty crate should not be treated as a solution for a dog that becomes distressed when confined. Persistent attempts to escape, excessive barking, panting or other signs of distress may indicate that the dog needs help with crate training or an underlying behavioural issue rather than simply a stronger crate.
Furniture-Style Dog Crates
Furniture-style dog crates are designed to blend more naturally into the home. Many resemble a side table, cabinet or other piece of furniture while providing an enclosed space for the dog.
They can be an attractive alternative to a traditional wire crate, particularly when the crate will remain permanently in a living room or other frequently used part of the home.
They can be a good choice for:
- Dogs that are already comfortable and settled in a crate
- Owners who want the crate to fit more naturally with their furniture
- Homes where the crate will remain in one position
- Owners who value appearance as well as function
Things to consider
Don’t choose a furniture crate on appearance alone. Check the internal dimensions, ventilation, door and fastening design, construction and manufacturer’s guidance to make sure it is suitable for your dog.
Some furniture-style crates use wood, engineered wood or similar materials around a metal frame or bars. These may not be suitable for dogs that chew the crate or make determined attempts to escape.
They can also be considerably heavier and more difficult to move than a folding wire crate.
Soft-Sided & Fabric Crates
Soft-sided crates are usually made from fabric stretched over a lightweight frame. They are generally lighter than metal or furniture-style crates and many fold down for storage or carrying.
They can be useful when portability is important, particularly for a dog that is already comfortable being in a crate.
They can be a good choice for:
- Calm, crate-trained dogs
- Holidays and temporary use away from home
- Owners who need a lightweight, portable crate
- Situations where the crate needs to be folded away regularly
Things to consider
Fabric crates are less resistant to chewing, scratching and determined escape attempts than metal crates. They may therefore be unsuitable for puppies that chew or dogs likely to damage the fabric.
Check the internal dimensions, ventilation, strength of the frame, zips and fastenings and the manufacturer’s instructions before buying.
A soft-sided crate should not automatically be treated as a secure restraint for travelling in a vehicle. For car use, choose a product specifically designed and recommended for that purpose.
Which Type of Dog Crate Should I Choose?
The right choice depends on your dog and how you intend to use the crate.
Folding wire or metal crate
A practical all-round choice for many dogs and puppies. Good ventilation, easy to clean and often folds away when not needed.
Heavy-duty crate
Worth considering when you need something more substantial than a standard wire crate. Heavier and usually more expensive.
Furniture-style crate
Best suited to a settled, crate-trained dog when you want a permanent crate that fits more naturally into your home.
Soft-sided or fabric crate
Lightweight and portable for suitable, crate-trained dogs, but not a good choice for dogs that chew, scratch or make determined attempts to escape.
Still unsure?
Whichever type you choose, check the internal dimensions and the manufacturer’s sizing guidance before buying. Your dog should have enough room to stand naturally, turn around and lie down comfortably.
For help choosing the correct size, see our Crate Size Guide.