10 Best Dog Crates for Puppies in 2026: Safe, Adjustable Picks for Growing Dogs

Choosing the right crate can make puppy training easier, help with housebreaking, and give your new dog a calm place to rest. The best dog crates for puppies should be secure, properly sized, and simple to adjust as your pup grows.

In this roundup, we focus on practical options that balance durability, convenience, and value so you can pick a crate that fits your puppy now and later.

Best 10 Dog Crates for Puppies Picks for 2026

Compact Puppy Starter Crate – Amazon Basics 24-Inch Wire Crate

For dog crates for puppies, this 24-inch Amazon Basics wire crate is a practical pick when you need a smaller setup that can still grow with your puppy using the included divider. It folds flat for storage and transport, and the removable tray makes cleanup straightforward for everyday indoor use.

Best For: Small-breed puppies and compact indoor crate training where adjustable space matters.

Pros:

• Divider panel helps adjust the interior as your puppy grows
• Foldable metal wire design sets up quickly and stores flat
• Removable plastic tray simplifies cleaning
• Manual door locking and bottom tray hook add secure containment

Cons:

• Only sized for pets under 20 x 15.25 inches
• Single-door layout may be less flexible than double-door crates
• Best suited to small breeds rather than larger puppies

This is a solid basic choice if you want a simple, portable puppy crate for home use and value easy assembly over extra features.

Grow-With-Me Training Crate – MidWest 36-Inch Double Door iCrate

Among dog crates for puppies, this MidWest iCrate stands out for crate training because the divider panel lets you start with a smaller space and expand it as your dog grows. The double-door layout, leak-proof tray, and secure latches make it a strong fit for indoor use when you want a durable crate that can last beyond the puppy stage.

Best For: Medium puppies and growing dogs that need a long-term training crate.

Pros:

• Divider panel supports puppy training and gradual size changes
• Double doors offer more placement flexibility
• Leak-proof tray and rubber feet support easier everyday use
• Rounded corner clips and secure latches add peace of mind

Cons:

• Designed for 41-70 lb dogs, so it may be too large for very small puppies
• 36-inch size can take up more room indoors
• For dogs near 70 lbs, the brand recommends sizing up

If you want a crate that can handle puppy training now and keep working as your dog matures, this is a well-rounded, sturdy option.

Room-to-Grow Puppy Crate – Amazon Basics 30-Inch Wire Crate

If you’re comparing dog crates for puppies and want a little extra room without jumping to a full-size crate, this 30-inch Amazon Basics model is a practical middle-ground. It includes a divider, folds flat for storage, and uses a removable tray plus a secure locking door for straightforward indoor crate training.

Best For: Small and medium puppies that need more space than a 24-inch crate provides.

Pros:

• Divider panel helps tailor the crate as your puppy grows
• 30-inch size works for breeds like Beagle, Dachshund, Shih Tzu, and Chihuahua
• Foldable frame makes it easier to store or move
• Removable tray supports quick cleanup

Cons:

• Single-door design offers fewer access options than double-door crates
• May be too large for very tiny puppies
• Still limited to indoor use per the product details

This is a sensible pick when your puppy needs a crate that can accommodate growth while still staying easy to assemble, clean, and store.

Tiny Puppy Training Crate – MidWest 18-Inch Single Door iCrate

For very small dog crates for puppies, this 18-inch MidWest iCrate is sized for dogs up to 10 pounds and is built for indoor crate training. The divider panel lets the crate grow with your puppy, while the leak-proof tray and secure latch keep daily use simple and contained.

Best For: Extra-small puppies that need a compact starter crate for training.

Pros:

• Compact size suits tiny breeds and very small puppies
• Divider panel supports puppy-to-adult crate use
• Leak-proof tray makes cleanup easier
• Lightweight build and carry handle help with portability

Cons:

• Only intended for dogs up to 10 lbs
• Single-door setup is less versatile than double-door options
• May need sizing up quickly as the puppy grows

This crate makes sense when you need a very small, easy-to-manage training setup and know your puppy will stay within the brand’s size guidance.

Collapsible Indoor/Outdoor Pick – Foldable 28" Crate with Wheels

If you’re shopping for dog crates for puppies and want something easy to move and store, this collapsible metal-and-PE crate is a practical option for small to medium dogs. It folds flat for storage, sets up without tools, and includes two wheels and side handles, making it useful for both home placement and travel.

Best For: Puppy owners who want a portable, space-saving crate for indoor use, road trips, or temporary outdoor containment.

Pros:

• No-tool folding design makes setup and takedown quick.
• Two wheels and side handles improve portability around the house or on the go.
• Squeeze-latch locks and rounded corners add safety-focused details.
• Works as an indoor crate, travel crate, or temporary outdoor pen.

Cons:

• Best suited to small or medium dogs, not larger breeds.
• At 8.19 kg, it may be heavier than basic wire crates.
• Installation needs care to ensure the front and rear panels snap in correctly.

This is a strong pick if convenience and portability matter more than a lightweight wire frame. The modern furniture-style design also makes it a better fit for homes where the crate will stay visible.

Training Starter Choice – 24-Inch iCrate with Divider

For puppy crate training, this Midwest iCrate is a straightforward option for small breeds and young dogs that still need room to grow. The divider panel lets you adjust the interior as your puppy gets bigger, while the leak-proof tray and foldable frame keep daily cleanup and storage simple.

Best For: Small-breed puppies and owners who want a basic training crate with an included divider.

Pros:

• Divider panel helps the crate grow with your puppy.
• Leak-proof tray makes cleaning easier.
• Tool-free assembly and foldable design add convenience.
• Rounded corner clips and slide-bolt latch are designed with safety in mind.

Cons:

• Designed for dogs around 12-20 lbs, so sizing may be tight near the upper end.
• Single-door layout is less flexible than dual-door crates.
• Metal wire style is practical, but not as furniture-like as some alternatives.

This is a solid no-fuss crate if your priority is training and simple day-to-day use. It covers the essentials well without adding extra complexity.

Roomier Everyday Pick – 36" Double-Door Crate with Divider

If you need dog crates for puppies that can also fit a dog that will grow, this Amazon Basics 36-inch wire crate offers a roomy, adjustable setup. It folds down for storage, includes a divider panel, and has front and side doors for easier access during crate training and daily use.

Best For: Medium breeds and growing puppies that need more interior space and two-door access.

Pros:

• Divider panel helps adjust the space as your puppy grows.
• Two doors make access and placement easier.
• Folds flat for storage or transport.
• Removable tray and bottom hook make cleanup more manageable.

Cons:

• Large 36-inch size may be more crate than smaller puppies need at first.
• Metal wire construction is functional rather than decorative.
• Owners must measure carefully to ensure a proper fit.

This crate stands out when you want one purchase that can last beyond the puppy stage. The larger footprint and divider make it a flexible pick for homes planning ahead.

Mid-size training crate – Midwest 36-Inch Single Door iCrate

If you’re shopping for dog crates for puppies, this Midwest iCrate is a practical pick when you expect your dog to grow into a medium-large adult. The included divider panel lets you start smaller for crate training, while the leak-proof tray and secure metal construction make day-to-day cleanup and containment straightforward.

Best For: Puppy owners who want a crate that can be adjusted as their dog grows into the 41-70 lb range.

Pros:

• Divider panel supports puppy training and lets the crate grow with your dog.
• Metal wire build with a black e-coat finish is designed to resist rust and wear.
• Leak-proof tray, rubber feet, and tool-free assembly make setup and cleanup easier.
• Front and side openings provide flexible access during training.

Cons:

• Best suited to medium-large dogs, so it may be too big for smaller breeds.
• Dogs near 70 lbs may need the 42-inch size instead.

For buyers who want one crate to handle both puppyhood and adulthood, this model offers a balanced mix of training-friendly features and everyday durability. It is a sensible choice if your puppy is expected to mature into the recommended size range.

Covered starter kennel – DONORO Double Door Dog Crate

Among dog crates for puppies, this DONORO kit stands out because it bundles the crate, a removable tray, a carrying handle, and a puppy crate cover. The double-door layout can make it easier to place in your home and gives you more access points when you’re introducing a puppy to crate time.

Best For: Small or medium puppies, or mixed-size households that want a crate kit with a cover included.

Pros:

• Includes a brown crate cover, carrying handle, and leak-proof removable tray.
• Double-door design offers front and side entry for easier access.
• Metal wire construction uses two heavy-duty slide-bolt latches per door.
• Collapsible design is portable and comes with a 1-year manufacturer warranty.

Cons:

• The product notes show a 30-inch crate size, so it may not suit larger adult dogs.
• Cover is hand wash only.

This is a good option if you want a more complete puppy setup right away rather than buying accessories separately. The included cover adds versatility, but the size makes it most appropriate for smaller dogs and puppies.

Flexible small-dog crate – New World 30-Inch Double Door Crate

If you’re comparing dog crates for puppies, this New World model is a straightforward choice for smaller breeds that will stay in the 21-40 lb range. It skips the divider panel, so it’s best when you already know the adult size you need, while the double doors and leak-proof tray help make daily use simpler.

Best For: Small to medium puppies whose adult size is already easy to estimate.

Pros:

• Double doors offer front and side access for flexible placement.
• Leak-proof tray and rubber feet support easier cleanup and stability.
• Metal wire build with e-coat finish is designed for durability and rust resistance.
• Tool-free assembly and carry handle make it convenient to set up and move.

Cons:

• No divider panel is included, so it does not adjust as your puppy grows.
• Dogs near 40 lbs may need the larger 36-inch model instead.

This crate makes sense when you want a simple, reliable enclosure without extra accessories. It is especially useful if you’re comfortable choosing the crate based on the dog’s adult size rather than starting small and scaling up.

How We Picked the Best Dog Crates for Puppies

We looked for crates that support early training and everyday use: sturdy construction, reliable latches, removable trays for fast cleanup, and divider panels that let one crate work through multiple growth stages. We also prioritized size variety, since Dog Crates for Puppies should fit both tiny breeds and larger pups that will outgrow a starter crate quickly.

Quick Comparison

For most buyers, the main choice comes down to whether you need a small starter crate, an adjustable mid-size option, or a larger crate with room to grow. Smaller single-door models are often best for tiny puppies and easier placement in apartments, while double-door and larger foldable crates can be more flexible for training, travel, and home setups.

Key Buying Factors for Dog Crates for Puppies

Size and Growth Room

A puppy crate should be big enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so large that it encourages accidents in one corner. Divider panels are especially useful because they let you reduce the usable space while your puppy is small and expand it later.

Door Layout and Placement

Single-door crates work well when space is tight, while double-door designs give you more flexibility for room layouts and easier access. Consider where the crate will live in your home before choosing a style.

Cleanup and Portability

Removable pans are important for quick cleaning during house training. Fold-flat designs are useful if you plan to move the crate between rooms or take it on trips. If you travel often, lighter models with carrying handles or wheels may be worth the tradeoff.

Build and Comfort

Look for rounded edges, secure closures, and a stable frame. The crate should feel dependable, with enough airflow and visibility to keep your puppy comfortable without feeling isolated.

Who Should Buy Which Dog Crates for Puppies?

If you have a tiny breed, a compact crate is usually the best fit. If your puppy is a medium or large breed, an adjustable crate with a divider is the smarter long-term buy. Families who want one crate for home and travel should favor foldable, easy-carry designs. For apartment living or multi-room flexibility, a double-door crate can be especially practical. In short, the best Dog Crates for Puppies are the ones that match your dog’s adult size, your available space, and how you plan to use the crate every day.