Crate training a compact breed like a Pug, Frenchie, or Havanese looks simple until you face the real decision: a rigid wire cage that folds flat, a soft-sided travel den that packs to three inches, or a plastic carrier that doubles as airplane cargo. Each construction type changes how your dog breathes, how you clean up accidents, and whether the crate survives your puppy’s teething phase. The wrong choice means a chewed escape route or a frame that wobbles with every shift of weight.
I’m Mo Mahin — the founder and writer behind Furric. My approach relies on cross-referencing manufacturer tensile specs with long-term owner durability reports to separate dents from dealbreakers.
Whether you need a stationary training hub or a portable crate for car rides and overnight stays, this guide focuses exclusively on the best small dog crate options built to contain, comfort, and travel with your pet.
How To Choose The Best Small Dog Crate
Selecting a crate for a dog under 20 pounds involves more than picking a color or matching your decor. The three main construction styles — wire, soft-sided, and hard plastic — dictate ventilation, portability, and chew resistance. Your decision should start with your dog’s adult dimensions and your primary use case, then move to the latch mechanism and material quality.
Construction Style: Wire vs. Soft vs. Hard Plastic
Wire crates offer the strongest containment for chewers and the best airflow, but they weigh more and don’t collapse as flat as soft models. Soft-sided crates, typically built around a steel tube frame with 600D Oxford fabric, fold flat for storage and travel but should only be used as primary enclosures if your dog doesn’t chew or scratch. Hard plastic carriers provide secure transport for car and air travel, though ventilation is more limited and they don’t allow space to grow via a divider panel.
Measure Your Dog, Not the Label
Crate sizing conventions vary between brands. A 24-inch crate from one manufacturer might have a 17-inch interior height while another offers 20 inches. Measure your dog from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail and from the top of the head to the floor, then add four inches to each measurement. That calculated length and height — not the weight range — determines whether the crate will be cramped or cavernous.
Latch Security and Gap Size
A push-button latch or basic slide-bolt without a secondary lock can be manipulated by an determined dog. Look for slide-bolt latches with Paw Block protection or self-locking zippers on soft crates. Wire gap size matters as well: gaps larger than 15 millimeters can trap small paws or noses, while gaps under 10 mm reduce visibility and airflow.
Removable Trays and Washable Liners
Leak-proof plastic trays with raised edges catch spills and make cleanup faster than an absorbent pad placed directly on the crate floor. For soft-sided crates, a removable, machine-washable fleece or sherpa padding is essential because fabric absorbs odors and stains more readily than plastic. Check that the tray or bed cover is removable without disassembling the entire crate.
Quick Comparison
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| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Crate | Soft-Sided | Maximum portability & extra interior space | 24 x 18 x 21 inches (2″ wider than standard) | Amazon |
| Feandrea Collapsible Dog Crate | Soft-Sided | 30-second tool-free assembly & travel | 24 x 16.5 x 16.5 inches, 600D Oxford fabric | Amazon |
| PETSFIT Soft Dog Crate (19-Inch) | Soft-Sided | Ultra-compact for dogs up to 15 lbs | 19 x 16.5 x 16 inches, pop-up frame | Amazon |
| MidWest New World Double Door | Wire | Flexible placement with side & front entry | 24.77 x 17.92 x 19.5 inches, e-coat finish | Amazon |
| MidWest iCrate Single Door | Wire | Crate training with included divider panel | 24.77 x 17.92 x 19.5 inches, Paw Block latch | Amazon |
| Amazon Basics Hard-Sided Carrier | Plastic Carrier | Airline-compatible travel for cats & small dogs | 22.8 x 15 x 13 inches, steel wire doors | Amazon |
| Amazon Basics Foldable Wire Crate | Wire | Budget-friendly everyday containment | 24 x 18 x 20 inches, 15 mm wire gap | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate
The EliteField stands out for its generous proportions: at 24 x 18 x 21 inches, the interior is two inches wider and four inches taller than most soft-sided crates labeled 24-inch. That extra headroom makes a noticeable difference for a breed like a taller miniature poodle or a long-backed dachshund who needs space to stand and turn. The steel tube frame paired with 600D fabric and hex mesh holds its shape without sagging, and the three mesh doors — top, front, and side — allow you to position the crate in tight corners or against a wall without blocking access.
The included fleece bed and carrying bag add meaningful value. The bed pad removes for machine washing, and the crate itself folds down to a three-inch height for trunk storage. Owner reports consistently highlight the durability of the zipper locks and the fact that the side door’s zipper includes a small locking mechanism that prevents interior manipulation by the dog. After eight years of reported use from one reviewer, the frame and fabric remained intact with no torn seams.
The 2-year warranty from EliteField exceeds the standard 90-day coverage found on many comparable soft crates. The only real tradeoff is that the crate does not have a leak-proof plastic tray — accidents will eventually soak through the fabric base, so a separate waterproof liner is recommended for puppies or dogs prone to motion sickness.
Why we love it
- 2 inches wider and 4 inches taller than typical 24-inch soft crates
- Folds to 3 inches flat with included carrying bag
- 2-year warranty, a strong vote of confidence
Good to know
- Fabric base is not leak-proof — add a liner for accidents
- Not suitable for dogs that chew through fabric
2. Feandrea Collapsible Dog Crate, 24-Inch
The Feandrea collapses and assembles in roughly 30 seconds without any tools, making it the best option for frequent travelers who need a crate that moves from car trunk to hotel room to family visit without frustration. The 24 x 16.5 x 16.5-inch footprint suits dogs up to 34 pounds, though the 16.5-inch height limits headroom for taller builds like a Jack Russell or a tall Chihuahua mix. The steel frame and 600D Oxford fabric resist tearing, and the self-locking zippers prevent a clever dog from sliding the zipper pull from inside.
Four mesh doors provide cross-ventilation that soft crates with only one or two panels often lack. The reflective strips on the fabric are a thoughtful safety addition for camping or evening walks where low-light visibility matters. The included Sherpa fleece pad is machine-washable and removable, though the pad itself is not intended for machine washing — the cover is the washable layer. The side pocket and water bottle holder keep travel essentials within reach.
One long-term review noted that the crate survived over a month of determined chewing attempts from a pup without structural failure. That said, heavy chewers can still damage the fabric if left unsupervised for extended periods — the steel frame holds, but the fabric panels are the weak link. The crate does not include a leak-proof base, so a waterproof mat is advisable for puppies or motion-sick travelers.
Why we love it
- Assembles in 30 seconds without tools
- Self-locking zippers prevent interior escape
- Reflective strips add safety in low light
Good to know
- 16.5-inch height may be tight for taller small breeds
- Not chew-proof; fabric panels can be damaged by determined dogs
3. PETSFIT Soft Dog Crate, 19-Inch
At 19 x 16.5 x 16 inches, the PETSFIT targets the true toy breeds: dogs under 15 pounds like a Yorkie, Maltese, or adult Chihuahua. The pop-up wire frame with two additional fiber rods on each side keeps the walls rigid enough to prevent sagging, but the whole unit folds flat for storage between uses. The low threshold — just a few inches — is a practical advantage for senior dogs or a dachshund recovering from a back injury who struggles to step over a high plastic tray lip.
Three mesh sides provide ample airflow, and the reversible thick comforter mattress is fully machine-washable, which is a better design than the removable-but-not-washable fleece pads found on some competitors. The Oxford fabric exterior resisted scratching during testing, and the zipper closure held securely with no unplanned openings reported. Owners specifically note that their Norwich Terrier and mini dachshund preferred this crate over larger, more enclosed soft options.
The main limitation is the absence of any latching or strap system to secure the crate inside a car — this is a stationary indoor/travel tent rather than a crash-tested car crate. The 19-inch size also precludes use for dogs approaching 20 pounds, as the internal floor space becomes too cramped for them to stretch out naturally.
Why we love it
- Low threshold for easy entry by senior or injured dogs
- Fully machine-washable reversible mattress
- Pop-up frame sets up and folds in seconds
Good to know
- No seat belt or car-securing attachment points
- Limited to dogs under 15 pounds for comfortable use
4. MidWest New World Double Door Crate
The New World is MidWest’s double-door variant of the classic iCrate, offering both a front and side door for flexible room placement. If your bedroom layout requires the crate to sit sideways against a wall, the side door solves the access problem that a single-door design creates. At 24.77 x 17.92 x 19.5 inches, the dimensions match the iCrate exactly, but the New World omits the divider panel — so it’s best for owners who know their dog’s adult size and don’t need to shrink the interior for a puppy.
The e-coat finish on the metal wire resists rust, and the slide-bolt latches include a Paw Block feature that prevents the latch from sliding open if the dog pushes against the door from inside. Precision-welded corners and rounded clips minimize sharp edges that could snag a dog’s collar or ear. The leak-proof plastic tray sits firmly in the base, held in place by metal hooks that prevent the tray from sliding out when the crate is moved.
One review reported that a Pomsky fit comfortably with room to stand and turn, and the crate’s stability allowed items to be placed on top without wobbling. The lack of a divider is the main reason this crate is not ideal for a young puppy who will outgrow the 24-inch size. Assembly is tool-free, but the initial setup requires stretching the wire frame into shape, which can be challenging to do alone.
Why we love it
- Front and side doors for flexible room placement
- Slide-bolt latches with Paw Block for added security
- Rust-resistant e-coat finish and leak-proof tray
Good to know
- Divider panel not included — not ideal for growing puppies
- Initial frame setup requires some effort alone
5. MidWest iCrate Single Door, 24-Inch
The iCrate is the crate-training standard for a reason: the included divider panel lets you shrink the interior space as your puppy grows, preventing the dog from using one corner as a bathroom while sleeping in the other. For a Fox Terrier or Pug puppy who will eventually outgrow the 24-inch size, the divider allows you to buy the adult crate now and use it from day one without giving the puppy too much room. The dimensions are 24.77 x 17.92 x 19.5 inches, suitable for breeds between 12 and 20 pounds.
The slide-bolt latch with Paw Block has been tested by thousands of owners and holds up against persistent door-pushing. The rubber feet protect hardwood floors, and the carry handle makes moving the crate between rooms straightforward. The leak-proof tray is removable for cleaning, and the tray hooks at the bottom prevent the plastic from sliding out during transport. Assembly is tool-free — the crate unfolds and clips into place in about a minute.
Reviewers consistently mention that the iCrate feels sturdier than generic wire crates at a similar price point. The 1.5-inch wire gap is large enough to allow good visibility but small enough to prevent most small noses from poking through. The single-door layout limits placement options — the door must face outward, which can be restrictive in narrow hallways or next to furniture.
Why we love it
- Divider panel supports proper crate training for growing puppies
- Paw Block latch prevents accidental opening
- Tool-free assembly in under one minute
Good to know
- Single door limits placement flexibility
- 1.5-inch wire gap may allow very small paws to catch
6. Amazon Basics Hard-Sided Pet Travel Carrier
When the travel plan involves an airplane, a hard-sided carrier is a non-negotiable requirement, and the Amazon Basics unit at 22.8 x 15 x 13 inches fits most airline under-seat dimensions. The dual-entry design — a front door and a top-loading door — solves the classic airline problem of extracting an anxious dog from a dark plastic box in a crowded gate area. The spring-loaded latches allow one-handed opening, and the top door swings open to either the left or right for flexible access.
The plastic body is injection-molded PP (polypropylene) with steel wire doors that resist bending under pressure. Ventilation slots run along the sides, top, and back, providing enough airflow for a medium-size cat or a small dog between 12 and 20 pounds. The screws connecting the top and bottom halves keep the carrier securely closed, and the top handle is reinforced for carrying over longer distances through terminals. Assembly involves snapping the two halves together and inserting the screws — about three minutes total.
One review noted that the carrier breaks down for flat storage, which is useful for seasonal travelers who don’t need the carrier taking up closet space year-round. The weight recommendation caps at 20 pounds, and dogs taller than 13 inches at the shoulder will have to crouch — this is strictly for compact breeds. There is no built-in water bowl or storage pocket, and the interior lacks padding, so a separate bed or towel is required for comfort on longer trips.
Why we love it
- Top-loading door eases anxious pet extraction
- Meets airline under-seat size requirements
- Breaks down for flat storage when not in use
Good to know
- No interior padding included — add a bed for comfort
- Limited to dogs under 20 pounds and 13 inches tall
7. Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Wire Small Dog Crate
The Amazon Basics wire crate strips away frills to deliver a functional 24 x 18 x 20-inch enclosure at a price that leaves room for accessories. The 15-millimeter wire gap is significantly smaller than the 1.5-inch gaps on most standard wire crates, which is a safety advantage for tiny paws and noses that might otherwise slip through and get caught. The manual door locking mechanism uses a simple slide-bolt design that clicks securely into place, though it lacks the Paw Block anti-escape features found on the MidWest models.
The crate folds flat for transport and includes a top handle for carrying. The removable plastic base tray sits on a metal lip with a hook at the bottom that prevents the tray from sliding out when the crate is lifted — a detail often overlooked in budget crates. Setup takes about two minutes: the wire frame unfolds and locks into position, and the tray slides in. Owners have repurposed the crate for containing chickens during time-outs, which speaks to its solid build for the price point.
The included divider panel allows the crate to shrink for a puppy, though the divider is a simple wire panel that slides into the track, not a full-height partition. The wire itself feels slightly lighter gauge than the MidWest iCrate, and the e-coat finish is less durable, with some owners reporting minor paint chipping around the door latch after a few months of daily use. For intermittent use or as a secondary crate, this is a solid value proposition. For a primary enclosure with a determined chewer, the MidWest is the safer bet.
Why we love it
- 15 mm wire gap prevents tiny paws from getting stuck
- Includes divider panel for puppy training
- Folds flat with carry handle for portability
Good to know
- Wire gauge feels lighter than MidWest competitors
- E-coat finish may chip around latch with heavy use
FAQ
What is the ideal crate size for a Pug or French Bulldog?
Can I use a soft-sided crate as a primary enclosure during the day?
How do I prevent my puppy from pushing the plastic tray out of the crate?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most small-breed owners, the best small dog crate winner is the EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Crate because it offers the largest interior volume among soft crates, folds completely flat with a carrying bag, and carries a 2-year warranty that covers defects. If you need a wire crate with a divider for puppy training, grab the MidWest iCrate Single Door. And for airline travel or top-loading access in tight spaces, the Amazon Basics Hard-Sided Carrier provides the secure, dual-entry design that makes airport trips less stressful for both you and your pet.