Our readers keep the lights on and my morning glass full of iced black tea. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.7 Best Dog Crate For Medium Dogs | Quiet Den, Not A Cage

A dog crate for a medium breed sits at a tricky middle ground — too small and your dog can’t stand or turn; too large and you lose the den-like security that reduces anxiety. The right crate feels like a conscious decision about your dog’s comfort and your home’s layout, not just a metal box you grab off the shelf.

I’m Mo Mahin — the founder and writer behind Furric. I’ve spent years analyzing crate specifications, studying wire gauge differences, tray lip depths, and fold mechanisms across hundreds of models, and cross-referencing that data against real owner experiences to separate durable builds from flimsy alternatives.

In this guide, I break down the strongest options available so you can confidently find the best dog crate for medium dogs that balances floor space, door configuration, and long-term durability for your specific breed and home environment.

How To Choose The Best Dog Crate For Medium Dogs

Medium breeds span a wide range — from a 25-pound Beagle to a 65-pound Border Collie. The wrong crate size leads to restless dogs or wasted floor space. Focus on three decision points that matter most.

Crate height and length: No guessing allowed

A medium dog needs enough vertical space to stand fully upright without ear contact with the top, and enough length to stretch out in a natural lying position. Measure your dog from floor to the top of the ears when standing, and from nose tip to the base of the tail. Add 4 inches to each measurement — that is your minimum interior crate size. Most 36-inch crates work for dogs between 40 and 55 pounds, while 42-inch models suit heavier medium breeds up to 70 pounds. Ignore the breed label; measure your actual dog.

Single door vs. double door for daily ease

A single-door crate forces you to position it facing forward, which locks out tight hallway or under-desk placement. Double-door crates — one on the short front panel and one on the narrow side panel — give you far more placement options. If you plan to keep the crate in a corner or against a wall, double-door access makes loading and unloading noticeably easier. The trade-off is slightly higher weight and a small increase in assembly steps, but the daily convenience is worth it for most owners.

Wire, soft-sided, or hard-plastic

Wire crates offer the best airflow, visibility, and structural security for medium dogs that are home alone or crate training. Soft-sided crates are lighter and easier to fold, but a determined chewer can break through mesh panels quickly — reserve these for travel or supervised use. Hard-plastic kennels provide the most den-like darkness and are airline-friendly, but they are bulkier and can feel cramped without proper ventilation. For most medium-dog owners, a double-door wire crate with a leak-proof tray is the safest all-around choice.

Quick Comparison

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Model Category Best For Key Spec Amazon
MidWest iCrate 36-Inch Wire Daily crate training & home base Slide-bolt latches / 41-70 lb weight range Amazon
BestPet 36-Inch Pink Wire Double-door access & easy travel Two slide-bolt latches per door / 22 lb crate weight Amazon
Garnpet 36-Inch Soft Crate Soft Travel & lightweight indoor nook Four mesh doors / 600D Oxford fabric Amazon
Amazon Basics 36-Inch Wire Crate Wire Budget-friendly basic containment Single door with manual lock / 15 mm gap size Amazon
Ckofgdsue 48-Inch Wire Crate Wire Large medium breeds needing extra space Double doors with dual latches / 48x29x32 inch interior Amazon
DONORO 32-Inch Pop Up Soft Crate Soft Supervised indoor or car travel use Three mesh windows / 70 lb max weight Amazon
SportPet Designs 24-Inch Hard Crate Hard Small medium breeds & car travel Twist-lock metal gate / 20 lb max weight Amazon

In-Depth Reviews

Best Overall

1. MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate

Slide-bolt latchesDivider panel included

The 36-inch iCrate from MidWest Homes for Pets hits the sweet spot for medium breeds like Beagles, Bulldogs, and Whippets. Its precision-welded wire frame with rounded corner clips and slide-bolt latches featuring a Paw Block mechanism reduces snag points and makes escape attempts far less likely. The 36.5-inch length and 24.75-inch height provide enough headroom for dogs in the 30 to 55-pound range to stand comfortably without feeling cramped.

Tool-free assembly is a genuine time-saver — the crate pops open from a flat folded position and locks into shape in under 30 seconds. The divider panel adjusts the interior length, making this crate suitable for puppy crate training that grows into an adult kennel without needing a second purchase. The leak-proof plastic tray slides out from the front, and rubber feet protect hardwood and tile floors from scratching during movement.

Long-term durability is strong thanks to the black e-coat finish that resists rust and everyday wear. Owners report the iCrate holds up well even with energetic puppies that lean against the door. The included carry handle makes relocation between rooms simple, though at 22 pounds it is not the lightest crate on this list. For medium-dog owners who want a single crate that handles training, travel, and daily use, this is the benchmark.

Why we love it

  • Rounded corner clips prevent snags and reduce injury risk
  • Divider panel supports puppy-to-adult transition
  • Leak-proof tray with rubber feet protects floors and simplifies cleaning

Good to know

  • Single-door design limits placement options in tight corners
  • Not suitable for dogs near 70 lbs; size up to the 42-inch model
Premium Pick

2. BestPet 36-Inch Double-Door Wire Crate

Dual latches each doorFoldable flat design

The BestPet 36-inch crate brings a double-door configuration to medium-sized breeds, offering front and side access that fits easily against walls or under desks. Each door is secured with two slide-bolt latches — a redundancy that adds real security for dogs that have learned to nudge open single-latch doors. The reinforced steel pipes and rust-resistant coating give the frame a solid feel that holds its shape after repeated folding and unfolding.

Owners of medium dogs like Cocker Spaniels and French Bulldogs report that the 36 x 22 x 25-inch interior leaves enough room for a bed, water bowl, and still room to stretch. The removable ABS tray has raised edges that catch spills and resist stains, making cleanup faster than crates with thinner trays. At 22 pounds, the crate is light enough to move between rooms but heavy enough to stay stable when the dog shifts weight inside.

Assembly is completely tool-free — the crate folds flat for storage and pops open in seconds. The pink color option is a standout for owners who want a crate that blends with lighter decor without looking like a utility cage. Some owners note that the second latch on the side door can feel stiff initially, but it loosens with use. For a mid-range price point, the dual-latch double-door design offers premium-level security without a premium price tag.

Why we love it

  • Front and side doors with independent dual latches for added security
  • Raised-edge ABS tray resists stains and contains spills effectively
  • Color options (pink) break away from standard black and silver

Good to know

  • Side door latch can feel stiff during the first few weeks
  • Not ideal for anxious dogs that may push against wire mesh
Design Pick

3. Garnpet 36-Inch Collapsible Soft Crate

Four mesh doorsLightweight carry bag

The Garnpet 36-inch soft crate prioritizes portability and calm indoor aesthetics. The beige 600D Oxford fabric and steel-wire frame create a structure that sets up in under five minutes without any tools, and the included carry bag makes it genuinely packable for road trips, camping, or moving between rooms. Unlike most soft crates that offer one or two doors, this model features four mesh doors — three sides unzip to roll up flaps for ventilation and visibility.

At 12.9 pounds, this is the lightest full-size crate in the lineup. Owners of 60-pound dogs report using it successfully for supervised daytime containment and travel, though the fabric walls mean it is not suitable for dogs that actively chew or scratch at confinement. The waterproof Oxford fabric wipes clean with a damp cloth, and the thin nylon mat is machine-washable, though it is too thin for extended sleeping without adding a separate dog bed.

Mesh panels on three sides and the top provide airflow that stays comfortable on warm days. The fold-down process takes some practice to compress back to its original shape, but owners report it becomes easier after the first few attempts. If your medium dog is crate-trained and you need a lightweight secondary crate for travel or part-time use, the Garnpet delivers a well-constructed soft-sided option at a reasonable weight and price.

Why we love it

  • Four mesh doors provide excellent ventilation and flexible access
  • Very lightweight at 12.9 pounds with included carry bag
  • Waterproof Oxford fabric wipes clean easily

Good to know

  • Breathable mesh can be torn by determined chewers
  • Folding down to original size takes practice
Best Value

4. Amazon Basics 36-Inch Metal Wire Dog Crate

Manual door lockRemovable divider

The Amazon Basics 36-inch wire crate strips away extras to deliver a functional single-door crate at a budget-friendly price point. The heavy-gauge metal wire feels sturdy enough for dogs up to the 30-50 pound range, and the manual door locking mechanism engages with a satisfying click that stays secure during normal use. The crate sets up quickly from a flat-folded position and collapses just as fast for storage in closets or under beds.

The removable plastic base tray is thick enough to withstand regular washing without cracking, and a metal hook at the bottom keeps the tray from sliding out when the dog moves around inside — a small detail that prevents frustrating tray drift. The interior dimensions of 36 x 23 x 25 inches provide adequate space for a Corgi, Brittany, Cocker Spaniel, or French Bulldog to stand and turn. The included divider panel adjusts the interior length for growth during puppy training.

The top handle makes carrying manageable, though the manual lock requires you to confirm the hook is properly seated every time. Some owners note that the 15 mm gap size between wires is tighter than some competing crates, which is actually beneficial for smaller medium dogs that might try to squeeze their head through wider gaps. If you need a reliable crate for moderate daily use and want to avoid overpaying for premium labeling, this crate competes well in its price tier.

Why we love it

  • Tight 15 mm wire gap prevents head-squeezing for smaller medium breeds
  • Metal hook locks tray in place to prevent sliding
  • Folds flat quickly with no tools required

Good to know

  • Single-door design limits corner placement flexibility
  • Manual hook latch requires visual check every time
Spacious Choice

5. Ckofgdsue 48-Inch Double-Door Wire Crate

Two dual-latch doorsRoom divider included

The Ckofgdsue 48-inch crate caters to the larger end of the medium-dog spectrum — breeds like Standard Poodles, Border Collies, and heavier Spaniels that need more length to stretch out. The 48 x 29 x 32-inch interior is large enough for a 55 to 75-pound dog to stand fully upright and turn without bumping walls. Both doors feature two latches each, doubling the security compared to single-latch designs and providing effective containment for dogs that test weak points.

The high-quality metal construction with a black finish resists rust and holds its shape after repeated folding. The removable plastic tray has upward edges on all four sides that contain spills beyond what standard flat trays can handle, which is a practical advantage for dogs that drool heavily or have occasional accidents. The crate folds without tools and includes a handle for carrying, though at 26 pounds it is heavier than other options — this is the trade-off for the larger footprint.

Owners of 70-pound dogs note that the 48-inch size gives their pets enough room for a comfortable bed plus space to spread out. The included divider panel lets you reduce the interior space for smaller dogs or puppy training, making this crate versatile for multi-dog households. The biggest drawback is the floor footprint — at 48 inches long, it commands a dedicated wall or corner space that smaller crates do not. For owners who want a generous crate that their medium-large dog can grow into without feeling confined, this delivers strong value.

Why we love it

  • Generous 48-inch length accommodates larger medium breeds comfortably
  • Two doors each with dual latches for maximum security
  • Raised-edge plastic tray effectively contains spills and drool

Good to know

  • Large footprint requires dedicated floor space
  • Heavier than average at 26 pounds
Travel Pick

6. DONORO 32-Inch Pop Up Soft Dog Crate

Three mesh windowsRemovable washable pad

The DONORO 32-inch pop-up crate is built for owners who need a lightweight, instantly deployable crate for short-term use rather than all-day confinement. The sturdy steel wire frame allows the crate to spring open in seconds without any assembly — literally pull it from the flat storage bag and it locks into shape. The 600D Oxford cloth walls and three high-density mesh windows provide ventilation while keeping the crate airy and visible from multiple angles.

At just over 4 pounds (1.88 kg), this is the most portable option in the lineup. The 32 x 21 x 26-inch interior suits smaller medium breeds like French Bulldogs, Chihuahuas, and Cocker Spaniels up to around 30 pounds. The zippered double-zipper closure on each door reduces the chance of a dog pawing the zipper open, though a determined dog can still damage the mesh. The removable pad included is comfortable for short naps and machine-washable, making cleanup straightforward.

Owners report using this crate successfully at agility training classes, in the car for vet trips, and as a lightweight indoor area for supervised time. The twist-and-strap method helps compress the crate back to its original size, though the first few folds can feel stiff. This crate is not a replacement for a heavy-duty wire kennel for dogs with separation anxiety or destructive tendencies. For portability and quick setup in supervised scenarios, it fills a genuine gap that hard-sided crates cannot match.

Why we love it

  • Pops open and folds flat in seconds with zero tools
  • Extremely lightweight at about 4 pounds with carrying handles
  • Three mesh windows provide 360-degree visibility for the dog

Good to know

  • Mesh can be damaged by determined chewers or scratchers
  • 32-inch size is too small for medium breeds over 30 pounds
Compact Pick

7. SportPet Designs 24-Inch Collapsible Hard-Sided Pet Carrier

Twist-lock metal gateCollapsible flat storage

The SportPet Designs 24-inch hard-sided kennel targets the smaller side of medium breeds — dogs up to 20 pounds with a maximum standing height of 14 inches. The hard plastic shell with a twist-lock metal gate provides a real sense of security compared to soft-sided alternatives, especially for dogs that prefer darker, more enclosed spaces. The collapsible design is the standout feature here: the plastic body folds flat in seconds for storage in car trunks or tight closets.

Side ventilation slots run along both walls to maintain airflow without compromising structural rigidity. The kennel measures 24.5 x 16.5 x 16 inches internally, which fits a small Beagle, French Bulldog, or similar compact breed comfortably for car rides, vet visits, or overnight stays. The plastic material is easier to sanitize than fabric crates — a quick wipe with disinfectant handles most messes without absorbing odors. The gate latch secures with a simple twist motion that is intuitive even with one hand.

Owners praise the build quality, noting the thick plastic feels more substantial than similarly priced plastic carriers. At 4.43 kg (about 9.8 pounds), it is not the lightest small crate due to the solid plastic walls, but it is not heavy enough to be a burden for short carries. This kennel is not airline-approved, so check dimensions with your carrier before planning air travel. For owners who need a compact, hard-sided option for small medium breeds that folds away easily, the SportPet delivers a practical design that soft-sided crates cannot replicate.

Why we love it

  • Hard plastic shell creates a den-like environment for anxious dogs
  • Folds completely flat for storage in tight spaces
  • Thick plastic resists odors and is easy to sanitize

Good to know

  • Maximum weight limit of 20 pounds limits size of dog
  • Not approved for airline travel

FAQ

How do I measure my medium dog for a crate size?
Measure from the floor to the top of your dog’s ears while standing, and from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail. Add 4 inches to both measurements. The resulting height and length are your minimum interior crate dimensions. A 36-inch crate (length) with 25-inch height is the most common starting point for medium breeds between 30 and 55 pounds.
What is the best crate type for a medium dog that chews?
A heavy-gauge wire crate with slide-bolt latches and a tight wire gap (15 mm or less) is the safest choice for a medium dog that chews or scratches at confinement. Soft-sided crates with mesh panels can be torn open by determined chewers. Hard-sided plastic crates offer better durability than fabric but are heavier and harder to clean if chewed.
Can I use a soft-sided crate for daily crate training?
Soft-sided crates work for supervised training sessions, short-term house confinement, and travel, but they are not a replacement for a wire crate during long-term crate training. The fabric walls do not provide the same structural security, and a puppy that chews the mesh can damage the crate and potentially ingest fabric. Reserve soft crates for dogs that are already crate-trained and calm in confinement.
Should I get a single-door or double-door crate for my medium dog?
Choose a single-door crate if you plan to place the crate against a wall or in a corner with easy front access. Choose a double-door crate if you need placement flexibility — the side door lets you load the dog and access the crate from tight spaces like under a desk, in a hallway, or between furniture. Double-door models add negligible weight and are worth the small premium for placement freedom.
How often should I replace my dog crate?
Replace a wire crate when latches no longer engage properly, the base tray develops cracks that leak urine, or the wire frame bends enough to create gaps larger than 3 inches. Hard-sided crates should be replaced when the plastic shell cracks at hinge points or the gate no longer latches securely. With proper care, a quality wire crate lasts 5 to 10 years across multiple dogs.

Final Thoughts: The Verdict

For most medium-dog owners, the dog crate for medium dogs winner is the MidWest iCrate 36-Inch because it combines precision-welded construction, slide-bolt latches, and a divider panel into a single well-tested package. If you want double-door access and dual-latch security for corner placement, grab the BestPet 36-Inch Double-Door Crate. And for a lightweight travel-friendly option that sets up in seconds, nothing beats the Garnpet 36-Inch Soft Crate.