Finding the perfect crate for your small dog means balancing comfort, safety, convenience, and style. Whether you need a cozy home crate, a travel-ready option, or a crash-tested kennel, our top picks for 2025 have you covered. Here’s everything you need to know to choose the best fit.
Why the Right Crate Matters
- Proper size: A crate should let your dog stand, turn, and lie down comfortably—without too much extra space, which can hinder house training :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
- Material choice: Wire crates offer airflow and visibility; plastic kennels are sturdy and travel-friendly; soft crates are light and portable :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
- Purpose-built: Every crate is designed for different scenarios—home, travel, anxiety, decor, or durability needs.
Top Crates for Small Dogs
**Diggs Revol Small Crate**
Premium collapsible crate known for its sleek design, three access points, and tool-free set up. A favorite among small dog owners in apartments :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
**MidWest iCrate Double-Door Wire, 24″**
Classic wire crate: durable, double-door, easy-clean pan, and collapsible. MidWest iCrate consistently ranks as the top overall wire crate :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
**EliteField 3‑Door Soft Crate XS/S**
Soft-sided crate with zippered doors on three sides, including a fleece pad. Awarded Best Overall and Best Soft Crate by GearJunkie :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.
**Noah & Paw Collapsible Crate**
Affordable collapsible option ($78). Easy to fold and stow, especially suitable for short-term use or travel :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.
**Petmate Two‑Door Top‑Load Kennel**
Plastic kennel ideal for vet visits or travel, with two doors including a top load for easy access. Recognized for its sturdy, user-friendly design :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.
**Fable Pets Small Furniture‑Style Crate**
Wooden “furniture crate” that doubles as an end table. Great for home décor and small breeds :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}.
**Amazon Basics Soft Travel Crate XS**
Lightweight soft crate under $60. Highly rated for travel and portability :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}.
**Gunner G1 Crash‑Tested Kennel**
Heavy-duty, crash-tested plastic crate with lifetime warranty. Designed for utmost travel safety :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Crate | Type | Best For | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diggs Revol | Collapsible Wire/Fabric | Home/travel style | 3-access, tool-free, premium build |
| MidWest iCrate | Wire | Daily use, puppies | Divider panel, easy clean, collapsible |
| EliteField Soft | Soft-sided | Calm dogs, travel | 3 doors, comfy pad, portable |
| Noah & Paw | Collapsible Wire | Budget travel | Affordable, easy stow |
| Petmate Kennel | Plastic | Vet/travel | Top and front doors, sturdy build |
| Fable Pets | Wooden | Home décor | Stylish, supports furniture |
| Amazon Soft XS | Soft-sided | Budget travel | Lightweight, travel-friendly |
| Gunner G1 | Crash-tested Plastic | Max travel safety | Durable, crash-certified, lifetime warranty |
How to Choose the Best Crate for Your Small Dog
1. Measure Correctly
Measure from nose to tail and add ~4 inches. Also ensure enough height for standing. Dividers help with puppy growth :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}.
2. Pick the Right Material
- Wire: Good airflow and visibility, ideal for home training.
- Plastic: Great for travel and vet trips.
- Soft: Light and cozy—but not chew-proof.
- Wood: Stylish option that fits into home décor.
- Crash-tested: Best for vehicle transport safety.
3. Consider Portability vs Permanence
Soft and collapsible crates are perfect for travel. Plastic and wooden crates are sturdier for a permanent home setup.
4. Match to Your Dog’s Temperament
Anxious or escape-prone pups may prefer sturdy plastic or crash-tested options like Gunner. Calm dogs do well in soft or wire crates.
5. Think About Function
Daily use, travel, style, or crate training? Choose your crate based on how and where you’ll use it most.
Crate Training Tips for Small Dogs
- Introduce the crate slowly with treats and toys inside.
- Keep short, positive sessions to build comfort.
- Place crate in your bedroom at night—helps with potty needs and security :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}.
- Never use the crate for long-term confinement—limit to 6 hours max with breaks :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}.
Enhancing Crate Comfort
Line the crate with soft bedding, include a familiar toy, and cover wire crates with breathable blankets to create a cozy, den-like environment.
Support Behavior & Training
Combine your crate with structured training to promote calmness and reduce anxiety:
- Brain Training for Dogs eBook – teaches focus and calm, making crate time more relaxing.
- Solve Dog Reactivity AutoWebinar – ideal for anxious or reactive pups adjusting to crate living.
Conclusion
For small dogs, the best crate depends on how you live and what your pup needs. Whether you want the top-quality Diggs Revol, reliable MidWest wire, portable EliteField soft crate, or crash-tested Gunner kennel, there’s an ideal crate here for you.
Pro Tip: Measure first, match the material to your use-case, and make crate time positive. Add mental enrichment using our eBook and webinar to help your pup feel secure and content.