Best dog crates

Dog crates are an essential accessory for any good dog owner. They offer your canine companion a place to rest and a haven that they can bolt too when anxiety hits. Think of a crate as your dog's very own bedroom - their safe space that is familiar, comfortable and, most importantly, all theirs. They are also essential for training in those early, formative years.

But, with so many out there to choose from, finding the perfect dog crate for your furry friend can become quite a difficult task. That's why we've done the hard work for you. Below, you'll find 12 of the very best dog crates on the market. We've also tried and tested each of them to give you a better understanding of which is the right dog crate for you and your pooch's needs.

How do we choose the best dog crates in Australia?

You might be wondering what qualifies us to help guide you towards finding the best dog crate. Well, we're all pet owners who love our dogs. We've also had first-hand experience with each of the crates below, tested them out on our own pups, and made sure that each of the following criteria was covered during our reviews:

  • Size options
  • Material
  • Colour options
  • Travel friendliness
  • Training friendliness
  • Included or additional accessories
  • Warranties and product care

Our top picks

2 in 1 Convertible Training Crate

2 in 1 Convertible Training Crate

Fido Studio Dog Crate

Fido Studio Dog Crate

Paws for Life Wire Crate

Paws for Life Wire Crate

PaWz Wooden Wire Crate

PaWz Wooden Wire Crate

Cara Pet Soft Dog Crate

Cara Pet Soft Dog Crate

Paw Mate Wire Foldable Crate with Tray + Pink Cover

Paw Mate Wire Foldable Crate with Tray + Pink Cover

Bingopaw Wooden Dog Crate

Bingopaw Wooden Dog Crate

BingoPaw Heavy Duty Dog Crate

BingoPaw Heavy Duty Dog Crate

Buddy & Belle Foldable Soft Dog Crate

Buddy & Belle Foldable Soft Dog Crate

2 in 1 Convertible Training Crate: See $189.90 at Snooza
Fido Studio Dog Crate: See A$272.90 at Omlet
Paws for Life Wire Crate: See $35.00 at Pet Circle
PaWz Wooden Wire Crate: See $167.23 at PaWz
Kazoo Premium Crate: See $121.19 at Pet Circle
Fido Classic: See $52.95 at Omlet
Cara Pet Soft Dog Crate: See $49.95 at Jumbopets
PaWz Dog Crate: See $149.99 at PaWz
Paw Mate Wire Foldable Crate with Tray + Pink Cover: See $88.90 at Catch
Bingopaw Wooden Dog Crate: See $292.99 at Amazon
BingoPaw Heavy Duty Dog Crate: See $229.87 at Amazon
Buddy & Belle Foldable Soft Dog Crate: See $159.00 at Petstock

Let's look at each dog crate in detail

2 in 1 Convertible Training Crate

2 in 1 Convertible Training Crate

Constructed using super durable, double-coast, rust-resistant wire, this 2 in 1 Convertible Training Crate is one of the toughest on our list. This makes it ideal for any dog that has a tendency to chew and, to prove its durability, it comes with a generous 10 year warranty.

It also has two doors, one on the front and one on the side, which are spring-loaded making them easy to open using just one hand. These doors can also be removed, giving you the opportunity to create that calming space your dog needs without them feeling caged in.

At the base of this crate, you'll find a high-edged, sturdy tray which is designed to prevent any spillages. This means that any water (or accidents) will be contained within the tray and won't spill onto your floors.

This dog crate also folds flat, making it really travel-friendly and convenient to store. It's available in four sizes too, making it a good choice for small dogs and large dogs alike.

Key specifications & features to consider

Size options Medium, Large, Extra Large
Material Double-coated, rust-resistant wire
Colour options Black
Travel friendly Yes
Training friendly Yes
Accessory options None included, but moisture-absorbing mats are available to purchase separately
Product care 10 year warranty included

What do our experts say about the 2 in Convertible Training Crate?

One of the best things about this dog crate is its durability. The double-coated wire makes it strong enough to withstand any dog trying to break free. The rust-resistant properties of the wire also mean that any spillages aren't going to affect it.

We also love that the base tray remains in place and, better yet, has high sides. This doesn't only protect your floors from any accidents, but makes for an incredibly easy clean up.

Who is the 2 in Convertible Training Crate best for?

The 2 in 1 Convertible Training Crate is a great option for anyone with a new puppy who is likely to have a few accidents while they get used to their new crate. This is because the high-sided tray prevents any accidents from spilling onto your floors. Likewise, the super-tough construction will withstand any chewing with ease.

Pros

  • Super durable
  • Rust-resistant
  • High-sided tray
  • 10 year warranty included
  • Travel and storage friendly
  • Available in 4 sizes

Cons

  • Only available in one colour
  • Accessories have to be purchased separately

Fido Studio Dog Crate

Fido Studio Dog Crate

If you like getting as much value for your money as possible, then you definitely need to check out the Fido Studio Dog Crate. This dog crate is packed with features including an attached storage cupboard which is perfect for storing balls, blankets, toys, and anything else your pooch needs to feel safe and comfortable.

That's obviously a huge selling point. But what about the crate itself? Well, to start with it's super durable and is constructed from heavy-duty wire that is chew proof and easy to clean. It also features two wide doors that you can place on either side of the dog crate.

Simple latches secure the doors in place, and they are purposefully designed to not close by themselves. This allows you to keep the doors open when you're at home and shut them when needed. To top it off, the plastic tray on the bottom makes for easy cleaning and the whole unit is large enough to comfortably house most dog beds.

Key specifications & features to consider

Size options 24" and 36"
Material Heavy-duty wire
Colour options White and wood effect
Travel friendly No
Training friendly Yes
Accessory options Built-in wardrobe
Product care 2 year warranty

What do our experts say about the Fido Studio Dog Crate?

One thing that makes this dog bed stand out from the crowd is the fact it's a purpose-built unit designed to blend into your home. This is ideal if you're looking for something that subtly blends into your interior design theme and doesn't necessarily look like a dog crate.

The built-in wardrobe is an excellent touch and is great for anyone short on storage, or who simply wants to keep all of their dog's crate accessories in one place. The whole unit is strong too, so it's both functional and decorative.

Who is the Fido Studio Dog Crate best for?

The Fido Studio Dog Crate is best for a dog that is already used to crate training. It's definitely not a "starter crate" but is a great choice for a mature dog who needs a safe space to rest, especially for long periods. It's also a good choice for a dog owner looking for extra storage and value for money.

Pros

  • Purpose-built unit designed to blend into your home
  • Features a built-in storage wardrobe
  • Made from heavy-duty wire
  • Easy to clean plastic tray
  • Two doors

Cons

  • Only available in two sizes
  • Not travel friendly

Paws for Life Wire Crate

Paws for Life Wire Crate

The Paws for Life Wire Crate is an excellent choice for pet owners looking for dog crates that they only need to use occasionally. This is because it is collapsible, foldable, and easy to store. It's equally as easy to assemble, making it perfect quickly popping up and collapsing down again as needed.

The single door entrance is located at the front of the dog crate and is large enough to allow your dog to enter and exit with ease. It is also made from strong wire that is coated with a black electro-coat finish for added durability.

The tray at the base of the dog crate is easy to remove and clean, which also makes it a good choice for anybody with a new puppy to crate train!

Key specifications & features to consider

Size options Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large
Material Wire coated with a black electro-coat finish
Colour options Black
Travel friendly Yes
Training friendly Yes
Accessory options None included
Product care No extended warranty

What do our experts say about the Paws for Life Wire Crate?

This is one of the most basic dog crates you can find. That isn't necessarily a bad thing though, especially if you're a new pet parent and have a young pup to train. The easy assembly, collapsing, and storage also make it a good choice for anybody short on space who can't afford to have crates in their home full time.

It isn't without its downsides, though. The plastic tray may be easy to clean, but it isn't high-sided, which means there's a chance of a knocked water bowl spilling onto your floors. It also doesn't include any accessories but, for a first crate, that isn't the end of the world.

Who is the Paws for Life Wire Crate best for?

The Paws for Life Wire Crate is a great choice if you're looking for a no-frills crate, whether that's because you're only going to use it occasionally or because it's for puppies. It's also a really good choice if you need something that is travel friendly, since it will collapse down easily and slot into the trunk of your car.

Pros

  • Easy to collapse, assemble, and store
  • Made from strong materials
  • Easy to clean tray
  • Training friendly
  • A good option for travelling

Cons

  • No accessories included
  • No extended warranty

PaWz Wooden Wire Crate

PaWz Wooden Wire Crate

The PaWz Wooden Wire Crate is another excellent choice of dog crate for anyone looking for something multipurpose. First and foremost, it's a dog crate. We'll get into the specifics of that in a second. But, the flat top also allows you to use this as an end table or extra countertop. It also has wheels, making it easy to move around your home as needed.

In terms of its performance, the first thing to note is its size. The internal space allows your dog to move comfortably and it's also available in four sizes, from medium to an extra large dog crate.

The cage part is constructed from durable steel on three sides, while an MDF panel makes up the fourth. It also features two doors that can be secured with the slide-bolt spring latches and a removable tray that is easy to clean.

Key specifications & features to consider

Size options Medium, Large, Extra Large, Extra Extra Large
Material Steel and MDF
Colour options Black/Wood Effect
Travel friendly No
Training friendly Yes
Accessory options No included accessories, although doubles up as a countertop or end table
Product care 1 year warranty

What do our experts say about the PaWz Wooden Wire Crate?

The first thing to note about this dog crate is its multifunctionality. Also, if you're short on space (or simply feel that having a traditional dog crate assembled permanently in your home is unsightly) this is an excellent choice.

The cage part of the crate itself is strong, being made from steel wire. If we were to have one concern, however, it's that the fourth side is made from MDF. This may not be a good thing if your dog has a history of chewing or has demolished wooden objects before.

Who is the PaWz Wooden Wire Crate best for?

The PaWz Wooden Wire Crate is best for anybody with a mature dog who is already used to crate training and is looking to provide their dog with their own safe space. It's also perfect if you're looking to get as much use out of a dog crate as possible, even when your fur friend isn't using it.

We wouldn't, however, recommend this crate for puppies or potty training, simply because it isn't as easy to clean as some other dog crates and has the potential for chewing on the MDF side.

Pros

  • Doubles up as a piece of functional furniture
  • The wheels allow for easy manoeuvring
  • Made from steel wire
  • Includes a removable plastic tray

Cons

  • Not travel-friendly
  • Potential for damage on one side of the crate

Kazoo Premium Crate

Kazoo Premium Crate

Made from heavy-duty, powder-coated steel wire, the Kazoo Premium Crate is incredibly strong. It's also super safe and has no sharp edges which, combined with its durability, makes it an excellent choice for a larger dog and puppies alike.

The steel wire construction is also rust-resistant, adding to its durability and ensuring that any spills or accidents won't cause any damage. Likewise, this means that cleaning won't affect it and, along with the removable plastic tray, it's one of the easiest to clean dog crates on our list.

Another great thing about this dog crate is that it is easy to assemble and collapse as needed. This allows you to create a cosy den for your dog to snooze in when needed and, if you're short on space, collapse down again when you're home.

Key specifications & features to consider

Size options Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large, Extra Extra Large
Material Powder coated steel wire and plastic
Colour options Black
Travel friendly Yes
Training friendly Yes
Accessory options No accessories included
Product care No extended warranty

What do our experts say about the Kazoo Premium Crate?

One of the things we liked most when we were testing the Kazoo Premium Crate was how easy it was to assemble. Simply pull our 4 sides up and click them together. The tray stays firmly in place during use as well, so there's no risk of it sliding out of the crate as your dog moves around.

We also like its durability. Most crates like this one, lack something in terms of strength. The powder-coated steel wire on this makes it a good chew proof choice that is ideal for puppies, while the easy open doors give you convenient access to your pup when needed.

Who is the Kazoo Premium Crate best for?

This is the right crate for anyone looking for a no-frills dog crate that can be used as a great tool for potty training, crate training, teaching your pooch the importance of spending time alone, and generally providing them with a place they can rest and call their own. It is also easy to collapse and the portable design makes it a good choice for travel, whether that's a vacation or a trip to the dreaded vet!

Pros

  • Made from highly durable powder-coated steel wire
  • Easy to assemble, collapse, and store
  • Good choice for travel
  • Available in 5 sizes

Cons

  • No extended warranty
  • No accessories included

Fido Classic

Fido Classic

The Fido Classic features double doors which makes it one of the best options for travel. Depending on the size you need and the size of your car, simply slot the entire crate into your trunk and rest assured that your pooch is safe as your drive.

The double door design also makes it a great choice for your home as well, allowing you to tuck the crate neatly against a wall while still being able to access your dog. It is also super durable, constructed from welded steel wire finished with a black epoxy resin - ideal for both long term use and dogs prone to chewing.

This dog crate is easy to collapse when needed as well, and features a convenient carrying handle. The built-in metal loop also allows you to clip everything together and ensures nothing unfolds while you carry it.

Key specifications & features to consider

Size options 24", 30", and 36"
Material Steel wire and plastic
Colour options Black
Travel friendly Yes
Training friendly Yes
Accessory options No accessories included
Product care 2 year warranty

What do our experts say about the Fido Classic?

We love how convenient this crate is for travel and the included carrying handle is a nice added touch that many crates don't have. It's also super durable, so you know it'll last a long time and the included two year warranty backs that up.

Who is the Fido Classic best for?

The Fido Classic is best for families on the move who want to take their dog with them on their adventures. It's perfect for using in the car and its easy collapse and assembly will save you space when needed, too. It's also a good choice for dogs prone to chewing, as the durable materials are strong enough to withstand tough jaws!

Pros

  • Great for travel
  • Fold flat for easy storage
  • Made from super durable materials
  • Included a two year warranty

Cons

  • Only available in three sizes
  • No accessories included

Cara Pet Soft Dog Crate

Cara Pet Soft Dog Crate

Another excellent choice for travel, the Cara Pet Soft Dog Crate features carry handles, front and top openings, and a soft base. This ensures your pooch is as comfortable as possible during any journey, and gives you (or the vet) easy access.

Soft sided crates such as this one are also a good choice for older dogs as they add that extra layer of comfort to lean against as they snooze. The soft sides are supported by a steel frame so you know there's no risk of it losing its shape while in use, while the water-resistant fabric ensures your dog is kept dry in a sudden downpour.

To top it off, the Cara Pet Soft Dog Crate collapses down for easy storage. Again, this makes it a great tool for travel and it can be easily stored away when not in use.

Key specifications & features to consider

Size options Large, Extra Large, Extra Extra Large
Material Steel frame and water-resistant nylon fabric
Colour options Blue/black
Travel friendly Yes
Training friendly No
Accessory options No accessories included
Product care No extended warranty

What do our experts say about the Cara Pet Soft Dog Crate?

This is without a doubt one of the best travel crates on the market. It is ideal for safely transporting your dog wherever you're going, and the two carrying handles allow you to keep a firm grasp at all times.

However, this is not one of those dog crates that you can offer as a permanent place for your dog to feel safe, or to leave them when you need to leave the house. In these instances, you'll need something a lot more durable.

Who is the Cara Pet Soft Dog Crate best for?

This dog crate is best for people who need to take their dog with them often wherever they go. It offers a space for them to travel safely in comfort but is not a permanent in-house solution. As den animals, dogs need a cave-like space to call their own and, while undoubtedly good for travel, this isn't going to cut the mustard in those terms.

Pros

  • Ideal for travel
  • Steel frame and water-resistant fabric
  • Built in carrying handles

Cons

  • Not ideal as an in-house permanent solution
  • Not good for training
  • No extended warranty

PaWz Dog Crate

PaWz Dog Crate

Made from ABS plastic and featuring one door, the PaWz Dog Crate is a good choice for dogs who are already used to having their own space. It also features a top opening that allows an extra access point for you, and also stops your dog from feeling quite so enclosed when in use.

At the base, you'll find four wheels that can be used to easily move this dog crate around your home when needed. These castor wheels are also lockable so there's no risk of the dog crate shifting while your dog moves around, and they can also be removed if desired.

Key specifications & features to consider

Size options Small, Medium, Large
Material ABS plastic
Colour options Grey
Travel friendly No
Training friendly No
Accessory options No accessories included
Product care 1 year warranty

What do our experts say about the PaWz Dog Crate?

If you're looking to replace your dog's crate with something new, this would be a good choice. The ABS plastic construction makes it easy to clean, and the internal living space on all sizes is generous enough to keep your dog comfortable.

However, we wouldn't recommend this crate for a new pup or a dog prone to chewing, since the plastic construction isn't as strong as metal alternatives. It will do a great job of keeping a mature dog safe while you're out of the house, but any dog with anxiety may find it easy to break free.

Who is the PaWz Dog Crate best for?

The PaWz Dog crate is best for pet owners with a dog already used to a crate. It will offer them a place to relax and call their own, whether you're at home with them or out of the house. It isn't, however, a good choice for puppies or dogs that are prone to chewing.

Pros

  • Good choice for mature dogs used to a crate
  • Easy to clean
  • Lockable castor wheels
  • 1 year warranty

Cons

  • The ABS plastic construction isn't as strong as metal alternatives
  • Not travel-friendly

Paw Mate Wire Foldable Crate with Tray + Pink Cover

Paw Mate Wire Foldable Crate with Tray + Pink Cover

Who said dog crates have to look boring? The Paw Mate Wire Foldable Crate with Tray + Pink Cover certainly breaks the mould in terms of appearance and it's ideal for anyone looking to inject a little colour into their pet care.

Let's start with the cover itself. This bright pink crate cover is made from waterproof 600D Oxford canvas fabric and features roll-up windows that allow your dog to see out and ensure ventilation. This makes it a good choice for outdoor kennelling, camping trips, or any other instance where your dog may be crated up outside.

The cage part of this crate is made from a powder-coated steel frame which doesn't only ensure strength, but also adds to its weather-resistant properties. The base tray can also be removed for cleaning and the entire crate is SGS approved for safety.

Key specifications & features to consider

Size options 36"
Material Steel frame and waterproof fabric
Colour options Black/Pink
Travel friendly Yes
Training friendly Yes
Accessory options Waterproof dog crate cover
Product care 1 year warranty

What do our experts say about the Paw Mate Wire Foldable Crate?

We were particularly impressed with the weather-resistant properties of this crate. Of course, it's unlikely that you're going to leave your dog crated up outside for long periods. But on camping trips, for example, this is a great way to offer them their own space without fear of them getting soaked.

We also liked how durable both the cover and the cage of this pet crate is. This makes it a good choice for dogs who may have damaged previous crates through chewing.

Who is the Paw Mate Wire Foldable Crate best for?

The Paw Mate Wire Foldable Crate is best for a pet parent looking for a warm, safe place to offer their dog when outside. It can, of course, also be used indoors and would be a good choice if you've a new puppy to try and house train. It would be a good choice for dogs with a history of chewing as the construction is highly durable.

Pros

  • Water-resistant dog crate cover
  • Steel construction
  • Good ventilation
  • Travel and training friendly

Cons

  • Only available in one size, so may not suit small dogs or giant breeds

Bingopaw Wooden Dog Crate

Bingopaw Wooden Dog Crate

The Bingopaw Wooden Dog Crate is another good choice for anyone looking to disguise a crate as a piece of furniture. The flat top and wood-effect finish make it a perfect end table that will blend in perfectly with your interior design theme.

The front-opening door and side door gives your dog easy access in and out as needed, and the tray can be removed for easy cleaning. Each door is also constructed from thick wire mesh and the 3cm spacing between each bar makes it quite difficult for even the most destructive dog to chew on.

Key specifications & features to consider

Size options Small, Medium, Large
Material Engineered wood and iron
Colour options Walnut brown
Travel friendly No
Training friendly No
Accessory options No accessories included
Product care No extended warranty

What do our experts say about the BingoPaw Wooden Dog Crate?

We really like how well this dog crate blends in well with any home. It really does give the appearance of being a functional piece of furniture rather than an imposing dog crate (the small crate of the three sizes is particularly subtle). It's also well-made, highly durable, and the double door opening means you can place one side against a wall without sacrificing functionality.

Who is the BingoPaw Wooden Dog Crate best for?

The BingoPaw wooden Dog Crate is best for dog owners looking for a small crate that doesn't impose on their home too much. The double door design adds to this, giving you the opportunity to position it however fits best in your home.

Pros

  • Multifunctional
  • Durable
  • Double door design
  • Available in three sizes to accommodate dogs from toy to large

Cons

  • No accessories included
  • No extended warranty

BingoPaw Heavy Duty Dog Crate

BingoPaw Heavy Duty Dog Crate

If you need a crate that is suitable for extra large dogs, the BingoPaw Heavy Duty Dog Crate is a great choice. Available in large, extra large, and extra extra large, this is a highly durable dog crate made from 0.6-inch steel tubes and corrosion-resistant carbon steel.

It also features dual-secure latch with anti-escape locks and three doors reinforced with soldered joints.

Despite its size and undoubted durability, this large dog crate is easy to both assemble and clean. It doesn't collapse, however, so you'll need to be comfortable with this dog crate being a permanent feature in your home.

Key specifications & features to consider

Size options Large, Extra Large, Extra Extra Large
Material Corrosion-resistant steel
Colour options Black
Travel friendly No
Training friendly Yes
Accessory options No accessories included
Product care No extended warranty

What do our experts say about the BingoPaw Heavy Duty Dog Crate?

This is one of the strongest dog crates we found while doing our tests. If you have a dog that needs a crate that will keep them safe and secure while you're out of the house, this is one you should definitely consider. It would take a dog with the Herculean strength to cause any damage to this one.

Who is the BingoPaw Heavy Duty Dog Crate best for?

The BingoPaw Heavy Duty Dog Crate is best for anyone with a dog with a history of destroying crates. This is seriously durable and, with its anti-escape locks, even a dog with Houdini tendencies would find it difficult to get out. It would also be a good choice for any one with a large pup to house train.

Pros

  • Incredibly durable
  • Easy to clean
  • Ideal for large and giant breeds

Cons

  • Not suitable for small or medium dogs
  • Designed for security more than comfort

Buddy & Belle Foldable Soft Dog Crate

Buddy & Belle Foldable Soft Dog Crate

Rounding off our list of best dog crates, we have another excellent option for travel. The Buddy & Belle Foldable Soft Dog Crate is constructed from a sturdy iron frame and wrapped in water-resistant material, so there's no risk of it collapsing or your furry friend getting wet as you travel.

It also comes with a luxe fleece mat, allowing your dog to travel in comfort and style. The side pockets give you a convenient place to store treats and toys, while the slide out design gives you access to your dog when you reach your destination.

Key specifications & features to consider

Size options Small, Medium. Large, Extra Large
Material Iron and water-resistant nylon
Colour options Black
Travel friendly Yes
Training friendly No
Accessory options Built-in storage pockets
Product care No extended warranty

What do our experts say about the Buddy & Belle Foldable Soft Dog Crate?

The best thing about this foldable crate is just how good it is for travelling. The mesh top allows for ventilation while the water-resistant fabric helps ensure that your dog is kept warm and dry on the move. We also love the added touch of the luxe fleece mat which guarantees comfort for your dog as you travel.

Who is the Buddy & Belle Foldable Soft Dog Crate best for?

The Buddy & Belle Foldable Crate is best for dog owners on the go. It is well-designed and has some excellent finishing touches that make travelling with your pet easier than ever.

Pros

  • Sturdy iron frame
  • Water-resistant fabric
  • Easy access sliding door
  • Built in carry handles and storage pockets

Cons

  • Not suitable if you need to house train your dog
  • Not a permanent in-house solution