Choosing the right crate can make puppy training calmer, cleaner, and a lot less stressful. The best option should feel secure without being oversized, so your pup can rest, learn, and build good habits.
In this roundup, we focus on dog crates for puppies that balance safety, size, setup ease, and everyday convenience for new pet parents.
Best 10 Dog Crates for Puppies Picks for 2026
Compact Starter Crate
Midwest 24-Inch Single Door iCrate
- Divider panel helps it grow with your puppy.
- Leak-proof tray and rubber feet support easy cleanup.
- Secure slide-bolt latch and rounded corners add peace of mind.
Best For: Small-breed puppies and crate training
Covered Comfort Pick
DONORO 30-Inch Double Door Dog Crate
- Includes a crate cover, handle, and removable tray.
- Double doors make access easier indoors.
- Collapsible metal design is easy to store.
Best For: Small to medium puppies needing a covered indoor crate
Travel-Friendly Kennel
- Lightweight plastic shell is easy to carry and clean.
- Airline-friendly features support travel use.
- Four-sided ventilation helps airflow and visibility.
Best For: Small puppies that travel often
Roomier Training Crate
New World 30-Inch Double Door Crate
- Double doors offer flexible access from two sides.
- Leak-proof tray and secure latches support daily use.
- No divider included, so it is sized for adult growth.
Best For: Puppies expected to grow into medium dogs
Best for Easy Setup
Amazon Basics 30-inch foldable wire crate
- Divider panel adjusts for growth
- Folds flat for storage and transport
- Removable tray simplifies cleanup
Best For: Small-breed puppies and simple indoor training
Travel-Ready Kennel
Yaheetech 42-inch double-door crate
- Divider supports puppy growth
- Front and side doors add access
- Folds down for travel and storage
Best For: Medium-to-large puppies and road-trip use
Space-Saving Puppy Crate
DUMOS 24-inch foldable single-door crate
- Rounded corners help reduce injury risk
- Divider adjusts space as puppies grow
- Folds flat and includes a removable tray
Best For: Small puppies and compact training spaces
Expandable Puppy Starter Pick
Midwest 36-Inch Single Door iCrate
- Divider panel helps with puppy training.
- Secure latches and rounded corner clips improve safety.
- Leak-proof tray and tool-free assembly simplify cleanup and setup.
Best For: Puppy owners who need a crate that can grow with a medium to large dog.
Travel-Ready Dual Door Choice
- Foldable frame is easy to store and transport.
- Double doors help with placement and access.
- Leak-proof ABS tray makes cleanup simple.
Best For: Puppy households that want a portable crate for home, travel, or outdoor use.
Compact Small-Breed Pick
FDW 24" Foldable Metal Dog Crate
- Compact 24-inch size suits small puppies.
- Divider and dual doors add training flexibility.
- Folds flat with a leak-proof tray for easy storage and cleanup.
Best For: Small-breed puppies and owners who want a compact crate for training or travel.
Compact Starter Crate – Midwest 24-Inch Single Door iCrate
If you’re shopping for dog crates for puppies, this 24-inch iCrate is a practical pick for small breeds that should stay in the 12-20 lb range. The divider panel lets you adapt the space as your puppy grows, while the leak-proof tray and tool-free setup make everyday use simple.
Best For: Small-breed puppies and crate training when you want a metal crate that can grow with your dog.
Pros:
- Divider panel supports puppy crate training and future sizing.
- Slide-bolt latch with Paw Block and rounded corner clips add security.
- Leak-proof tray, rubber feet, and carry handle improve day-to-day convenience.
- Protective black e-coat finish helps resist rust and wear.
Cons:
- Best suited to dogs in the 12-20 lb range, so larger pups may need a bigger size.
- Single-door layout offers less access flexibility than a double-door crate.
This is a straightforward crate training option for small puppies when you want durability without extra complexity. Its divider panel is the main advantage, especially if you want one crate that can handle the early stages and beyond.
Covered Comfort Pick – DONORO 30-Inch Double Door Dog Crate
For dog crates for puppies that need a little more comfort and coverage, this DONORO kit includes the crate, a brown cover, a carry handle, and a removable tray. The double-door design is useful if you want easier access in tighter indoor spaces, and the collapsible metal build keeps storage simple.
Best For: Small to medium puppies whose owners want a crate kit with a cover and flexible entry points.
Pros:
- Comes as a full kit with a crate cover, handle, and leak-proof tray.
- Two doors make front and side access more convenient.
- Heavy-duty slide-bolt latches help secure the kennel.
- Waterproof 600D Oxford cover adds privacy and a more den-like feel.
Cons:
- The notes list medium and small dogs, so it may be too large for very tiny puppies.
- Cover is hand-wash only, which adds care requirements.
This crate stands out if you want more than a basic wire kennel. The included cover can help make a puppy feel calmer indoors, while the double doors improve placement options in the home.
Travel-Friendly Kennel – Petmate Vari Dog Kennel 24in
If your version of dog crates for puppies needs to work for both home and travel, this Petmate Vari kennel is built around portability and secure transport. It uses a sturdy plastic shell, four-sided ventilation, and a wire door, making it a solid choice for puppies that need a travel-ready enclosure.
Best For: Small puppies that need a lightweight kennel for travel, housebreaking, or airline cargo use.
Pros:
- Airline-friendly design with tamper-proof zip-tie holes for added security.
- Four-sided ventilation supports airflow and visibility during trips.
- Easy-to-wipe plastic shell and stay-dry moat help with cleanup.
- Lightweight build makes it easy to carry at just 4.5 pounds.
Cons:
- Maximum weight recommendation is 9 pounds, which is lower than the listed 10-20 lb range.
- Not as adjustable as a wire crate with a divider panel.
This is a smart pick when portability matters more than indoor crate-training flexibility. It is especially useful for travel-focused puppy owners who want a kennel that wipes clean fast.
Roomier Training Crate – New World 30-Inch Double Door Crate
When you’re comparing dog crates for puppies that will grow into medium dogs, this 30-inch New World crate is a sensible step up. It does not include a divider panel, so it’s better for puppies you want to size based on their adult measurements, and the front-and-side doors make placement easier in the home.
Best For: Puppies expected to mature into medium dogs and owners who want a simple double-door wire crate.
Pros:
- Double doors provide flexible front and side access.
- Leak-proof tray and rubber feet support everyday indoor use.
- Secure slide-bolt latches and Paw Block design improve safety.
- Tool-free assembly and carry handle make setup and moving easier.
Cons:
- No divider panel is included, so it is less adjustable for early puppy stages.
- May be oversized for very small puppies right away.
This crate makes sense if you want one kennel that matches your puppy’s future size rather than a smaller starter setup. The dual-door design and sturdy metal build give it broad everyday usefulness.
Best for Easy Setup – Amazon Basics 30-inch foldable wire crate
If you’re shopping for dog crates for puppies, this 30-inch Amazon Basics model is a simple, practical pick for small breeds and growing dogs. The included divider helps you adjust the interior as your puppy grows, while the removable tray makes cleanup easier after training accidents or muddy paws.
Best For: Small-breed puppies and owners who want a basic home crate with an adjustable divider.
Pros:
- Divider panel lets you size the space for a growing puppy.
- Foldable metal wire frame sets up quickly and stores flat.
- Removable plastic tray makes daily cleaning easier.
- Top handle adds convenience when carrying or moving it.
Cons:
- Single-door design offers less access than double-door crates.
- Best suited for small dogs, not larger breeds.
- Tray retention hook needs to be locked properly during use.
Overall, this is a straightforward crate for basic puppy training and indoor use. It focuses on portability, easy cleanup, and adjustable space rather than extra features.
Travel-Ready Kennel – Yaheetech 42-inch double-door crate
When comparing dog crates for puppies, this Yaheetech option stands out for owners who need a larger, more flexible crate that can also travel well. It includes a divider, a removable tray, and two doors, so it works as a training space at home and a secure kennel for road trips or camping.
Best For: Owners of medium-to-large breeds or fast-growing puppies who want a collapsible crate with travel-friendly features.
Pros:
- Divider helps adapt the space as a puppy grows.
- Front and side doors make access more flexible.
- Collapsible design with detachable handle supports transport and storage.
- Leak-proof tray is removable for easier cleanup.
Cons:
- Large 42-inch size may be too big for small dogs.
- Heavier than smaller wire crates at 30 pounds.
- Built primarily for bigger dogs, so it may feel oversized for young puppies.
This is a strong choice if you want a crate that can handle puppy training now and still be useful later for a larger adult dog. The dual-door layout and fold-down design add convenience without sacrificing containment.
Space-Saving Puppy Crate – DUMOS 24-inch foldable single-door crate
For smaller dogs, this DUMOS model is a compact option in the dog crates for puppies category, especially if you want something easy to set up and store. It has rounded corners for safety, a removable tray for cleanup, and a divider that lets you adjust the internal space as your puppy grows.
Best For: Small puppies and pet owners who want a lightweight crate for indoor-outdoor use and training.
Pros:
- Rounded corners and smooth wire construction help reduce bumps and scratches.
- Removable tray is designed to make cleaning simpler.
- Divider lets you adjust the living area as your pet grows.
- Folds flat to less than 3 inches thick for storage and transport.
Cons:
- Single-door design provides less access than double-door alternatives.
- Best fit is for small dogs, not larger breeds.
- 24-inch size may be too small for quickly growing puppies.
This crate keeps the essentials in place: safe edges, easy cleaning, and portability. It makes sense for small-puppy training when you want a simple, compact kennel without extra bulk.
Expandable Puppy Starter Pick – Midwest 36-Inch Single Door iCrate
If you’re shopping for dog crates for puppies, this Midwest iCrate is a practical pick for a growing dog that will eventually need more room. The divider panel helps you start with a smaller space for training, while the leak-proof tray, rounded corner clips, and secure latches make everyday use easier and safer.
Best For: Puppy owners who want a crate that can grow with a medium to large dog during training.
Pros:
- Divider panel supports puppy training and lets the crate grow with your dog.
- Secure slide-bolt latches and Paw Block corner details add peace of mind.
- Leak-proof tray, rubber feet, and tool-free assembly make setup simple.
- Metal wire build with black e-coat finish is made for everyday wear.
Cons:
- Size is aimed at medium to large breeds, so it may be too big for very small puppies.
- Dogs near 70 lbs may need the larger 42-inch version for comfort.
This crate makes sense if you want a sturdy, training-friendly option rather than a tiny starter kennel. The divider and durable construction give it more long-term value as your puppy grows.
Travel-Ready Dual Door Choice – Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate
For buyers comparing dog crates for puppies, this Sweetcrispy crate stands out for its foldable design and dual-door access. It’s built for indoor or outdoor use, and the removable ABS tray plus rounded corners make it a straightforward option for training, travel, or everyday containment.
Best For: Puppy households that want a portable crate for home use, trips, or outdoor training.
Pros:
- Double doors offer flexible placement and easier access.
- Collapsible build makes it convenient for travel, camping, and storage.
- Leak-proof ABS tray is designed for easy cleaning and odor resistance.
- Rounded edges, secure locks, and thick metal mesh support safer use.
Cons:
- Listed for medium dogs, so it may be oversized for very small puppies.
- At 36 inches, it takes more floor space than compact puppy crates.
This is a useful option if portability matters as much as training. The foldable frame and easy-clean tray make it a practical crate to use across different rooms and trips.
Compact Small-Breed Pick – FDW 24" Foldable Metal Dog Crate
If you need dog crates for puppies in a smaller size, this FDW 24-inch crate is the most compact option here. It’s designed for small dogs, includes a divider for separating spaces, and folds down for easy storage or transport, making it a simple training setup for smaller pups.
Best For: Small-breed puppies and owners who want a compact, portable crate for training or travel.
Pros:
- 24-inch size is better suited to small dogs and smaller puppy spaces.
- Divider panel adds flexibility during training.
- Double doors and dual latches help with access and security.
- Leak-proof ABS tray and fold-flat design make cleanup and storage easier.
Cons:
- Not intended for medium or large breeds.
- 90-day warranty is shorter than some competing options.
This crate is the most size-appropriate pick if your puppy is small and you want something easy to move around. Its compact frame and foldable build are especially handy for everyday training and travel.
How We Picked the Best Dog Crates for Puppies
For Dog Crates for Puppies, the best choices are typically the ones that combine proper sizing, durable construction, easy cleanup, and simple assembly. We favored crates with practical features like removable trays, divider panels, multiple door access, and foldable frames for storage or travel.
We also looked for options that suit different puppy stages, from very small breeds to medium and larger pups that are still growing. That matters because the right crate should feel cozy now while still supporting training as your puppy matures.
Quick Comparison
Use size and use case to narrow the field fast. Small-breed puppies usually do well in 24-inch crates, while medium puppies often need 30-inch models. If you want a crate that can grow with your dog, a larger crate with a divider panel is often the most flexible choice.
For travel or temporary containment, plastic kennel-style designs may be the better fit. For home training and everyday use, wire crates are usually easier to ventilate, clean, and adjust.
Key Buying Factors for Dog Crates for Puppies
Size and Divider Use
A crate should be large enough for your puppy to stand, 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 usable space while your puppy is small.
Durability and Safety
Look for secure latches, smooth edges, and a frame that stays stable when your puppy shifts, paws, or chews. If your puppy is especially active, sturdier wire gauge and reinforced corners can make a big difference.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Removable trays and easy-wipe surfaces are important for training accidents and everyday messes. The easier a crate is to clean, the more likely it is to stay part of your routine.
Portability and Storage
Foldable crates are useful if you need to move the crate between rooms, tuck it away, or bring it on trips. If you travel often, a lightweight or carrier-style option may be more practical than a heavy home kennel.
Who Should Buy Which Dog Crates for Puppies?
If you have a small breed or a young toy puppy, a compact 24-inch wire crate or plastic kennel is often enough. If you need something for a medium puppy with room to grow, choose a 30-inch or 36-inch crate with a divider. Larger or fast-growing pups may benefit from a 42-inch model, especially if you want one crate to last through several growth stages.
Choose the simplest, most secure option that fits your puppy’s current size and your daily routine. The best Dog Crates for Puppies are the ones that support training consistently, not just the ones with the most features.