10 Best Dog Kennels for Small Dogs in 2026: Safer, Easier Picks for Home and Travel

Finding the right kennel for a small dog should feel simple: it needs to fit well, be secure, and make cleanup and travel easier.

This roundup of the best dog kennels for small dogs focuses on practical choices for puppies, adult small breeds, and owners who want a crate that works at home and on the go.

Best 10 Dog Kennels for Small Dogs Picks for 2026

Compact Wire Crate for Everyday Use – Midwest 24-Inch iCrate for Small Breeds

If you’re comparing dog kennels for small dogs, this 24-inch Midwest iCrate is a straightforward indoor option for pups in the 12 to 20 lb range. It’s built for crate training, everyday home use, and easy cleanup, with a divider panel so the crate can grow with your dog.

Best For: Small-breed owners who want a durable, training-friendly wire crate for home use.

Pros:

• Sized for small dogs around 12-20 lbs, with a divider panel for puppy-to-adult use.
• Leak-proof tray, rubber feet, and tool-free assembly make setup and cleanup simple.
• Rounded corner clips and slide-bolt latch are designed to help reduce snags and escapes.
• Black e-coat finish adds rust resistance and everyday durability.

Cons:

• Best fit is limited to small dogs; heavier dogs should size up.
• Single-door design may be less convenient than dual-door crates.
• Primarily an indoor crate, not the most travel-focused option here.

This is a practical pick if you want a dependable wire kennel that supports training and daily use without extra complexity.

Travel-Ready Plastic Kennel – Petmate Vari 24-Inch Carrier

For dog kennels for small dogs that need to handle travel, the Petmate Vari is a plastic carrier designed for 10 to 20 lb pets. Its airline-friendly build, ventilation, and wipe-clean shell make it a practical choice for trips, housebreaking, or keeping a small dog contained on the go.

Best For: Small dogs that need a secure, easy-to-clean kennel for travel.

Pros:

• Airline-friendly design with tamper-proof holes for zip ties and a secure wire door.
• Four-sided ventilation helps with airflow and visibility during travel.
• Plastic shell and stay-dry moat make cleaning easier after accidents or trips.
• Lightweight build at 4.5 pounds for easier carrying.

Cons:

• Interior room is limited to small dogs in the 10-20 lb range.
• Maximum weight recommendation is listed at 9 pounds in the details, so fit should be checked carefully.
• Less flexible than a wire crate for home-based crate training.

If your priority is transport rather than a home kennel, this carrier focuses on security, ventilation, and simple cleanup.

Stylish Training Crate – Midwest Pink 24-Inch iCrate

This pink version of the Midwest iCrate is a good fit if you want dog kennels for small dogs that work for training and everyday indoor use. It keeps the same small-breed sizing and safety-focused design as the black model, while adding a more decorative finish for home spaces.

Best For: Small dogs and puppies whose owners want a training crate with a more stylish look.

Pros:

• Designed for small dogs in the 12-20 lb range with a divider panel for growth.
• Leak-proof tray and rubber feet support easy upkeep and steady placement.
• Rounded corner clips and secure latch are built to reduce snags and escapes.
• Pink e-coat finish offers a more fashion-forward appearance while resisting rust.

Cons:

• Single-door layout offers less flexibility than double-door crates.
• Not ideal for dogs near 20 lbs if you want extra space, since sizing up may be better.
• Best suited to indoor use rather than travel-focused needs.

Choose this if you like the training-friendly features of a standard wire crate but want a color that blends more intentionally with your home.

Double-Door Foldable Kennel – FDW 24-Inch Metal Dog Crate

If you want dog kennels for small dogs that are easy to set up and move, this FDW 24-inch crate is a versatile option for indoor or outdoor use. It has a foldable metal frame, two doors, a divider, and a leak-proof tray, making it useful for training, transport, and general containment.

Best For: Small dogs needing a portable crate with dual-door access and quick storage.

Pros:

• Two doors provide more placement and entry options than single-door crates.
• Fold-and-carry design packs down to less than 3 inches thick for storage.
• Tool-free setup makes it easy to deploy in just a few minutes.
• Leak-proof ABS tray and integrated lip help contain messes.

Cons:

• Warranty is shorter than some competing crates at 90 days.
• Metal-and-plastic build is practical, but not as refined as some premium models.
• Best suited to small dogs, so it is not a flexible size for larger pets.

This is a strong all-around pick if portability and convenience matter as much as basic crate training features.

Travel-Friendly Plastic Crate – Petmate Two Door Plastic Pet Kennel for Small Dogs and Cats

If you want dog kennels for small dogs that work for both travel and home use, this Petmate two-door plastic kennel is built around easy access and a secure, den-like feel. The top and front loading doors make it simpler to place your pet inside, while the ventilation holes and hard shell help keep the space airy and contained.

Best For: Small dogs up to 15 lbs that need an airline-approved-style carrier for travel and a cozy enclosed crate at home.

Pros:

• Top and front-loading doors offer flexible access.
• Designed for small pets 0-15 lbs with room to stand, turn, and lie down.
• Ventilation holes provide fresh air and 360-degree visibility.
• Simple plastic shell is easy to clean, with a stay-dry moat to help direct fluids away.

Cons:

• Weight limit is low, so it is only for very small dogs.
• Plastic construction is more travel-focused than crate-style training focused.

Overall, this is a practical pick if you need a compact kennel that can double as a travel carrier. Its dual-door design and airline-cargo-friendly build make it especially useful for small breeds on the go.

Foldable Wire Training Crate – Amazon Basics 24" Small Dog Crate

For shoppers comparing dog kennels for small dogs, this Amazon Basics wire crate is a straightforward indoor option with a divider, removable tray, and quick-fold design. It is sized for small breeds and gives you a simple setup that is easy to move, store, and clean.

Best For: Small breeds like Havanese or Pug that need an indoor crate with adjustable space and simple cleanup.

Pros:

• Divider panel lets you adjust the internal space.
• Folds flat for easier transport and compact storage.
• Removable plastic tray makes cleanup simpler.
• Metal wire build includes a manual door locking mechanism for secure containment.

Cons:

• Single-door design is less flexible than double-door crates.
• Primarily intended for indoor use.

This is a practical no-frills crate if your priority is a basic indoor kennel with easy assembly and everyday convenience. The divider and tray make it especially useful for growing small dogs or simple house-training setups.

Double-Door Crate Kit – DONORO Small Dog Kennel with Cover

If you want dog kennels for small dogs with a little more versatility, this DONORO crate kit adds a double-door layout, a cover, and a removable tray in one package. The metal wire frame is paired with a waterproof oxford cover, making it a useful option for indoor use, transport, or sheltered outdoor placement.

Best For: Small dogs and cats that need a portable crate kit with a cover, double-door access, and included tray.

Pros:

• Includes a crate cover, carrying handle, and leak-proof removable tray.
• Double-door design gives front and side access.
• Heavy-duty slide-bolt latches help secure each door.
• Waterproof 600D Oxford cover adds privacy and weather resistance.

Cons:

• Heavier than basic wire crates at 15 pounds.
• Cover requires hand washing only.

This crate stands out if you want more than a bare-bones kennel and prefer an all-in-one kit. The included cover and double-door design make it a flexible choice for small pets that need a contained, covered resting space.

Compact Training Pick – DUMOS 24 Inch Foldable Metal Dog Crate

If you want dog kennels for small dogs that are simple to set up and easy to keep clean, this DUMOS crate is a practical metal-wire option. It’s built for indoor or outdoor use, and the foldable design makes it convenient for home training, short-term resting, and travel.

Best For: Small dogs that need a portable crate with a removable tray and divider for flexible use.

Pros:

• Rounded corners and protective coating help reduce sharp edges and support safer everyday use.
• Removable plastic tray with a deep lip is designed to catch messes and wipe clean easily.
• Foldable construction makes it easy to store, transport, and pack for travel.
• Includes a divider so you can adjust the internal space as your pet grows.

Cons:

• Single-door design offers less access flexibility than dual-door crates.
• Metal construction is practical, but it won’t provide the softer feel of a fabric crate.
• Best suited to small dogs, so larger breeds will need a different size.

Overall, this is a straightforward kennel for buyers who want a durable, easy-clean crate with portable folding convenience. The divider and removable tray add useful value for training and everyday home use.

Travel Comfort Choice – Amazon Basics Soft-Sided Folding Dog Crate

For dog kennels for small dogs that prioritize lightweight travel comfort, this Amazon Basics soft crate is a convenient pick. The polyester body, mesh ventilation, and quick fold-flat design make it useful for road trips, camping, and vet visits when you want a crate that’s easy to carry and set up.

Best For: Small dogs that travel often and do better in a lighter, softer crate.

Pros:

• Sets up in seconds without tools and folds flat for compact storage.
• Two doors, including top and front loading, make entry and unloading easier.
• Mesh windows and front door provide ventilation on all four sides.
• Lightweight frame and fabric construction suit travel and transport.

Cons:

• Soft-sided design is less rigid than a metal crate.
• Zipper closures may not suit dogs that are rough on soft materials.
• Recommended for small breeds up to about 25 lbs, so it’s not for larger pets.

This crate stands out when portability matters more than heavy-duty structure. It’s a smart choice for owners who want an easy-carry kennel for short trips and frequent loading and unloading.

Space-Saving Starter Pick – 18 Inch Foldable Single Door Small Dog Crate

If you’re shopping for dog kennels for small dogs and want a compact, easy-handling option, this 18-inch foldable crate is designed for simple everyday use. It focuses on secure latching, quick assembly, and a leak-proof tray, which makes it a practical fit for training, transport, and indoor or outdoor use.

Best For: Very small dogs that need a compact crate with secure locks and a washable tray.

Pros:

• Rounded edges and smooth corners help create a safer enclosed space.
• Heavy-duty sliding bolt locks on the door add security.
• Foldable design sets up quickly and is easy to carry or store.
• ABS composite tray is leak-proof and designed for easy cleaning.

Cons:

• 18-inch size is quite small and may only suit very small pets.
• Single-door layout offers fewer access points than two-door crates.
• Metal build is functional, but it doesn’t offer the softer feel of fabric models.

This is a good no-frills kennel for buyers who want a compact crate that’s easy to assemble, easy to clean, and simple to move. Its small footprint makes it especially useful when space is tight.

How We Picked the Best Dog Kennels for Small Dogs

We looked for options that balance proper sizing, sturdy construction, easy setup, and everyday convenience. For Dog Kennels for Small Dogs, fit matters as much as durability, so we prioritized models with dimensions suited to small breeds and puppies, plus features like removable trays, double doors, and foldable frames.

Quick Comparison

Wire crates are usually best for home training and airflow, plastic kennels suit travel and a more enclosed feel, and soft crates work well for calm dogs and light portability. If you want something for house training, a wire or metal design is often the most versatile. If you travel often, a plastic or soft-sided kennel may be a better match.

Key Buying Factors for Dog Kennels for Small Dogs

Size and Fit

The kennel should allow your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably without excess empty space. Too much room can reduce the effectiveness of crate training for puppies.

Material and Use Case

Wire and metal crates are ideal for airflow and indoor use. Plastic kennels are better for transport and a more den-like feel. Soft crates are lightweight and convenient, but best for crate-trained dogs that are unlikely to chew or scratch.

Doors, Setup, and Cleaning

Double-door access can make placement easier in tighter rooms, while single-door crates often keep the design simpler. Look for removable trays or wipe-clean surfaces if you expect frequent messes.

Portability and Storage

Foldable frames, carry handles, and lightweight construction are important if you move the crate between rooms or take it on trips.

Who Should Buy Which Dog Kennels for Small Dogs?

Choose a wire crate if you want the most flexible everyday option for training and indoor use. Choose a plastic kennel if you need a secure carrier for travel or vet visits. Choose a soft crate if portability matters most and your dog is already calm in enclosed spaces. For the smallest puppies or compact breeds, shorter and more compact models may be the best fit, as long as they still provide enough room to move comfortably.

In short, the best choice depends on your dog’s temperament, your space, and whether the kennel will stay at home or travel with you.