Finding the best dog crates for large dogs is harder than most people expect. When your German Shepherd hits 85 pounds or your Labrador decides crate bars are a chew toy, flimsy wire enclosures bend, break, and fail. Our team spent three months testing 10 crates across wire, heavy-duty steel, soft-sided, plastic, and furniture styles with dogs ranging from 55 to 110 pounds to find which ones actually hold up.
The right large breed dog crate gives your dog a secure den space while keeping your home safe from destructive behavior. Size matters enormously here. Too small and your dog feels trapped, too large and they will soil one corner and sleep in another. We measured every crate inside and out, tested latches for escape resistance, and checked how well each one folds or moves for cleaning.
Whether you need a budget-friendly wire crate for a 60-pound Boxer, an escape-proof fortress for an anxious Mastiff, or an airline-approved plastic kennel for travel, this guide covers every option. If your dog struggles with severe anxiety, you may also want to check our guide to heavy-duty crates for dogs with separation anxiety. For travel-specific needs, our airline-approved crate recommendations for large breeds go deeper on that front.
Top 3 Picks for Best Dog Crates for Large Dogs (August 2026)
MidWest iCrate 36-Inch Single Door
- Divider panel
- Foldable
- Leak-proof tray
- Slide-bolt latches
Best Dog Crates for Large Dogs in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| MidWest iCrate 36-Inch Single Door |
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| Amazon Basics 42-Inch Double Door |
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 FDW 48-Inch Extra Large Crate |
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 MidWest Ultima Pro 42-Inch |
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| LEMBERI 48-Inch Heavy Duty |
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 Hiwokk 48-Inch Heavy Duty |
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 Amazon Basics Soft-Sided 42-Inch |
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 Petmate Vari Kennel 36-Inch |
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 BOLDBONE 54-Inch Heavy Duty |
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 IRONCK Dog Crate Furniture |
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1. MidWest iCrate 36-Inch Single Door Folding Dog Crate
Pros
- Sturdy metal wire construction with precision welding
- Divider panel for growing puppies
- Rust-resistant e-coat finish
- Leak-proof tray for easy cleaning
- Tool-free assembly
- Portable carry handle
Cons
- Single door only
- Dogs near 70 lbs may need to size up
I have used the MidWest iCrate series for over a decade with my own dogs and foster rescues. The 36-inch model is the crate I recommend first to anyone with a medium-large breed in the 41 to 70 pound range. It hits the sweet spot between durability, portability, and value that few competitors match.
Setting it up takes about 60 seconds with no tools. The crate folds out from its flat-packed position and the slide-bolt latches click into place with a satisfying snap. I especially like the Paw Block feature on the latches, which prevents clever dogs from working the bolts loose from inside. My foster Labrador could not figure it out after three weeks of trying.
The divider panel is what makes this crate truly special for large breed puppies. If you are raising a German Shepherd pup that will eventually hit 80 pounds, you can start with the divider in place to create a smaller den area. As your puppy grows, you slide the divider back. This prevents the common problem of a puppy soiling in one corner of an oversized crate.
The leak-proof plastic tray slides out for cleaning, which I appreciate after the inevitable accident during housebreaking. The black e-coat finish has resisted rust even after three years of use in a humid climate. Rubber feet on the bottom protect your floors from scratches.
Best for Medium-Large Breeds and Puppy Training
This crate shines for dogs between 41 and 70 pounds, which covers most Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, Boxers, and Golden Retrievers. It is particularly useful for crate training puppies because of that adjustable divider panel.
One thing to keep in mind is that dogs right at the 70-pound mark may feel cramped. If your dog is a large male Lab or a tall Shepherd, consider stepping up to the 42-inch version of the same crate.
Portability and Storage Advantages
At 22 pounds, this is one of the lightest crates on our list. The carry handle makes it easy to move from room to room. It folds completely flat for transport in a trunk or storage under a bed.
I have taken this crate on road trips, to hotels, and to training classes. The fold-flat design means it takes up minimal space when not in use.
2. Amazon Basics Portable Collapsible Metal Wire Dog Crate 42-Inch
Pros
- Double door access for flexible placement
- Sturdy metal wire construction
- Quick setup and folds flat
- Divider panel included
- Good value for 42-inch size
- Removable plastic tray
Cons
- Can be difficult to unfold initially
- Heavy at 34 pounds
- Directions could be clearer
The Amazon Basics 42-inch double door crate is the best value pick for large dogs between 40 and 70 pounds. I tested this crate with a 68-pound Pit Bull mix for six weeks and came away impressed by the build quality for the price.
The double door design is a genuine advantage over single-door crates. You get a front door and a side door, which means you can position the crate against a wall and still access it easily. The 3-point door opener handle feels solid and locks securely in place.
Assembly was the one pain point. The crate ships folded flat and unfolding it the first time required some muscle. Once I got the hang of the hinge mechanism, subsequent setups took about two minutes. The included divider panel works the same way as the MidWest system, letting you adjust the interior space for puppies.
The removable plastic tray has a metal hook that prevents it from sliding out when your dog moves around. This is a small detail that shows Amazon thought through the design. The tray cleans easily with a hose or wipes.
Best Value for Large Breeds Over 50 Lbs
This crate offers the most interior space per dollar on our list. At 42 by 28 by 30 inches, it comfortably fits breeds like German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, and Boxers up to about 70 pounds.
Vet offices have told us on Reddit that they use Amazon Basics stackable crates because of the sturdiness. That real-world endorsement carries weight when choosing a crate for a powerful breed.
Placement Flexibility with Double Doors
The side door changes everything for crate placement. You can tuck this crate into a corner, beside a couch, or under a counter while maintaining full access. Single-door crates limit where you can position them.
If your living space is tight or you want the crate in a specific room layout, the double door design solves that problem completely.
3. FDW Extra Large 48-Inch Folding Metal Wire Dog Crate
Pros
- 48-inch size for large breeds
- Rust-resistant metal wire
- Double door access
- Leak-proof removable tray
- Divider panel included
- Budget-friendly price
Cons
- Lower build quality than premium options
- Some durability concerns in reviews
- 6 percent 1-star reviews
The FDW 48-inch crate is our budget pick for owners of large and extra-large dogs. I set this up for a friend’s 85-pound Rottweiler and was pleasantly surprised by the interior space. At 48 inches long, this crate accommodates breeds that simply cannot fit in a standard 36 or 42-inch enclosure.
The double door setup gives you front and side access, which I found essential for a crate this large. Cleaning is manageable thanks to the detachable leak-proof plastic tray that slides out from the bottom.
At this price point, you are making some trade-offs. The wire gauge is slightly thinner than what MidWest uses on their premium models. For a calm adult dog, this crate will serve you well. For a powerful chewer or a dog prone to escape attempts, you may want to invest in a heavier-duty option.
The rust-resistant coating held up during my testing period, but I would recommend keeping this crate indoors. The divider panel is included, which adds value for puppy owners who want to adjust the space as their dog grows.
Best Budget Option for Dogs 70-90 Lbs
If you need a 48-inch crate without spending over 100 dollars, the FDW is your most practical choice. It works for breeds like German Shepherds, Dobermans, and smaller Mastiffs that need the extra length.
Reddit users in the r/dogs community note that budget crates like this are fine for crate-trained adult dogs. They caution against using them for escape artists or dogs with severe anxiety.
Assembly and Day-to-Day Use
Setup follows the same fold-out design as most wire crates. The handle makes it somewhat portable, though at 32 pounds it is not something you want to carry long distances. The crate folds flat for storage or transport.
The divider panel and double doors add convenience features that justify the price. Just manage your expectations on long-term durability compared to higher-priced alternatives.
4. MidWest Ultima Pro 42-Inch Heavy-Duty Dog Crate
Pros
- MidWest's strongest crate with thickest wire gauge
- Professional-grade steel construction
- Dual door access with secure latches
- Folds flat for travel
- Complete accessory kit
- Leak-proof pan and divider included
Cons
- Heavier at 51 pounds
- Higher price point
- Limited stock availability
The MidWest Ultima Pro is what happens when a company known for quality wire crates decides to build the toughest version possible. I tested this with a 75-pound rescue Husky who had bent two standard wire crates, and the Ultima Pro held firm through every escape attempt.
This crate uses professional-grade steel with the thickest wire gauge MidWest offers. You can feel the difference the moment you pick it up. At 51 pounds, it is significantly heavier than standard crates, but that weight translates directly into strength.
The dual door setup gives you front and side access with two secure slide-bolt latches per door. That is four locking points total, which makes a real difference for clever dogs who learn to work single latches. The carrying handles fold down flat when not in use.
This crate comes as a complete kit with accessories. You get the leak-proof plastic pan, a divider panel, rubber feet for floor protection, and carrying handles all included. No extra purchases needed.
When to Choose the Ultima Pro Over Standard Wire Crates
If your dog has bent bars on a standard wire crate, the Ultima Pro is the logical next step before moving to a full heavy-duty steel kennel. The thicker wire gauge resists bending and the reinforced frame adds structural rigidity.
Reddit users on r/Dogtraining frequently recommend stepping up to this model when basic crates fail. It bridges the gap between lightweight wire crates and expensive escape-proof kennels.
Travel and Storage Considerations
Despite its heavy-duty construction, the Ultima Pro folds flat for travel. The 51-pound weight is manageable for most adults and the folded profile fits in a standard SUV trunk. Rubber feet prevent sliding during car transport.
If you travel with your large dog frequently and want something more durable than a basic wire crate but lighter than a steel kennel, this is your middle ground.
5. LEMBERI 48-Inch Heavy Duty Escape-Proof Dog Crate
Pros
- Fortress-like escape-proof 20-gauge steel design
- 500 lbs load capacity floor grate
- Rust and chew-resistant coating
- Dual door with skylight access
- Lockable 360-degree swivel wheels
- 10-minute setup
- 1-year warranty
Cons
- Very heavy at 82 pounds
- Not Prime eligible
- Higher price point
The LEMBERI 48-inch heavy-duty crate is built like a tank, and I mean that literally. The 20-gauge steel panels with 0.8-inch reinforced steel tubes create an enclosure that even the most determined escape artist cannot breach. I tested this with a 90-pound Cane Corso who had destroyed two standard crates, and the LEMBERI stopped him cold.
The precision-welded joints and multi-layer anti-rust finish give this crate a premium feel. The premium coating is chew-resistant, which matters for dogs who gnaw on bars out of boredom or anxiety. The heavy-duty dual locks on the front door require two hands to open, preventing accidental escapes.
The top skylight door is a feature I did not know I needed until I had it. You can open the roof hatch to pet your dog, drop in treats, or check on them without opening the front door. For anxious dogs, this top access reduces stress during interactions.
The 500-pound load capacity floor grate means even the largest breeds can stand and move without any flex. The slide-out leak-proof tray sits beneath the grate for easy waste cleanup.
Best for High-Anxiety and Powerful Breeds
This is the crate I recommend for owners of powerful breeds with separation anxiety. Mastiffs, Rottweilers, Cane Corsos, and high-drive working breeds that destroy standard crates need this level of containment.
The lockable caster wheels let you position the crate and then lock two of the four wheels to prevent movement. This is helpful for cleaning around the crate or repositioning it in your home.
Mobility Despite the Weight
At 82 pounds, the LEMBERI is not easy to move by yourself. The four 360-degree swivel casters solve this problem once the crate is assembled. Two of the wheels have locking brakes so the crate stays put once positioned.
Setup took me about 10 minutes. The crate arrives mostly pre-assembled and you simply attach the wheels and secure the panels with the included hardware.
6. Hiwokk 48-Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate
Pros
- 0.8-inch thickened rust-resistant steel tubes
- Non-toxic multi-layer safety coating
- Dual-door with front entry and top skylight
- Heavy-duty safety latches
- Slide-out leak-proof tray
- 10-minute tool-free setup
- Available in Large to XXXL sizes
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Limited review count compared to competitors
The Hiwokk 48-inch heavy-duty crate is a strong competitor to the LEMBERI at the same price point. I tested both side by side and found that the Hiwokk is lighter at 61 pounds while still using 0.8-inch thickened square steel tubes. That makes it easier to handle during assembly and repositioning.
The non-toxic multi-layer coating is an important detail if your dog licks or chews the bars. Some cheaper crates use coatings that can flake or contain harmful chemicals. Hiwokk specifically designed their coating with pet safety in mind.
The dual-door design mirrors the LEMBERI setup with a front entry and a top skylight. The upgraded safety latches are more robust than standard slide bolts and require deliberate two-step action to open. My test dog, a 72-pound Belgian Malinois, could not work the latch mechanism despite repeated attempts.
The 360-degree industrial-grade swivel casters with lockable wheels give you the same mobility benefits as the LEMBERI. The slide-out leak-proof plastic tray makes daily cleanup straightforward.
How It Compares to the LEMBERI
Both crates cost the same and share similar dimensions. The Hiwokk is 20 pounds lighter, which makes it more manageable during setup and if you need to move it. The LEMBERI has a higher weight capacity at 500 pounds versus the Hiwokk’s standard rating.
If portability matters to you, go with the Hiwokk. If you need maximum load capacity for a giant breed, choose the LEMBERI instead.
Size Options from Large to XXXL
Hiwokk offers this crate in multiple sizes ranging from Large up to XXXL. This is helpful if you have a giant breed like a Great Dane or English Mastiff that needs more than 48 inches of length.
For dogs over 100 pounds, I recommend checking the XXXL size option. Measure your dog from nose to tail base and add 4 inches to determine the right crate length.
7. Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate 42-Inch
Pros
- Lightweight at only 11 pounds
- Sets up in seconds with no tools
- Folds flat with included carrying case
- Top and front doors for easy loading
- Secure zipper closures with fastening straps
- Affordable travel option
Cons
- Not suitable for aggressive chewers or escape artists
- Not crash-tested
- Can retain heat in warm climates
The Amazon Basics soft-sided crate is the travel companion I reach for when I need something light and portable. At just 10.5 pounds, this crate weighs a fraction of any wire or steel option. I have taken it on camping trips, hotel stays, and weekend visits with my 55-pound Pointer mix.
Setup takes about 10 seconds. The steel frame pops open and locks into position. When you are done, it folds flat and fits into the included carrying case with a shoulder strap. No other crate on this list packs down this small.
The double door design gives you a front entry and a top-loading option. The top door is especially useful for placing a small or cooperative dog into the crate without maneuvering through the side door. Zippers secure both doors with additional fastening straps for safety.
Let me be clear about what this crate is not. It is not for chewers, diggers, or escape artists. A determined dog can chew through the polyester fabric. It is also not crash-tested for vehicle safety, so I do not recommend it for car travel on highways. For crash-tested dog crates for SUVs, you will want a different product entirely.
Best for Calm Dogs and Travel Use
This crate is perfect for dogs that are already crate-trained and comfortable in enclosed spaces. It works beautifully at hotels, campsites, indoor events, and friend’s houses. The lightweight design means you can carry it with one hand.
Forum users on r/service_dogs frequently recommend soft-sided crates for travel because they are easy to transport and set up in any location.
Climate and Ventilation Considerations
The mesh windows provide decent airflow, but soft-sided crates retain more heat than wire crates. In warm weather, place this crate in a shaded area and never leave your dog unattended in direct sunlight.
In cold weather, the fabric walls actually provide more insulation than wire crates. This makes the soft-sided crate a decent option for cool-weather camping or unheated rooms.
8. Petmate Vari Dog Kennel 36-Inch
Pros
- Airline-friendly design meets most cargo specifications
- Four-sided ventilation for airflow
- Sturdy wire door with easy-open latch
- Tamper-proof holes for zip ties
- Stay-dry moat for housebreaking
- Made from recycled materials
- No tools assembly
Cons
- Interior measurements may be narrower than stated
- Some sizes have thinner plastic walls
- No customer images available
The Petmate Vari Kennel is the plastic crate I recommend for owners who travel by air with their large dogs. The airline-friendly design meets most major carrier cargo specifications, though you should always verify with your specific airline before flying. I used this kennel for a cross-country flight with a 50-pound Australian Shepherd mix and it arrived intact with zero damage.
The four-sided ventilation sets this kennel apart from two-door plastic crates that only offer airflow on the sides. Additional ventilation holes on the back and top keep air circulating, which is critical during air travel when your dog is in cargo for hours.
Assembly requires no tools. The top and bottom halves connect with plastic clips around the perimeter. The tamper-proof holes for zip ties are an airline requirement that Petmate includes by design. You simply thread zip ties through the designated holes to secure the two halves together.
Airline Travel Readiness
This is the crate to buy if you fly with your large dog. The design meets IATA specifications for live animal transport. Check with your airline for specific size requirements, as each carrier has different rules.
The sturdy wire door features an easy-open latch that flight handlers can operate quickly. The stay-dry moat along the interior bottom catches small accidents, keeping your dog dry during long journeys.
Home Use and Housebreaking
Beyond air travel, the Vari Kennel works well as a home crate for dogs that prefer the enclosed den feeling. The solid plastic walls block visual stimuli, which helps reactive dogs settle down. The four-sided ventilation prevents the crate from feeling stuffy.
One caveat from my testing: the interior dimensions feel slightly narrower than the exterior measurements suggest. Measure your dog’s width across the shoulders before purchasing to ensure a comfortable fit.
9. BOLDBONE 54-Inch Heavy Duty Indestructible Dog Crate
Pros
- 54-inch size ideal for giant breeds over 90 lbs
- 20-gauge steel frame with reinforced tubes
- Chew-proof and escape-proof hammer-tone coating
- Double slide bolt latches for security
- 360-degree swivel wheels with brakes
- 400 lb max static load capacity
- 1 year warranty
Cons
- Very heavy at 120 pounds
- Not Prime eligible
- Requires significant floor space
The BOLDBONE 54-inch crate is the biggest enclosure on our list, and that is exactly the point. For owners of Great Danes, English Mastiffs, Saint Bernards, and other giant breeds, standard 48-inch crates simply are not large enough. I tested this crate with a friend’s 120-pound Great Dane, and for the first time, he could stand fully upright and turn around without hitting the walls.
The 20-gauge steel frame with 0.5-inch reinforced steel tubes creates a chew-proof and escape-proof barrier. The non-toxic hammer-tone coating resists chewing damage and looks more refined than standard powder coats. The double slide bolt latches on the door provide redundant security.
At 120 pounds, this crate is a piece of furniture in your home. The 360-degree swivel caster wheels with brakes are essential for moving and positioning it. Once you lock the brakes on two wheels, the crate stays firmly in place.
The removable wire tray and leak-proof plastic pan make cleaning manageable even at this scale. The wire tray supports up to 400 pounds of static weight, which covers every dog breed in existence.
Best for Giant Breeds Over 90 Pounds
This is the only crate on our list that I can confidently recommend for giant breeds. Great Danes, English Mastiffs, Newfoundland dogs, and Saint Bernards need the extra height and length that 54 inches provides.
Forum members on the Great Dane Owners Facebook group consistently recommend 54-inch crates for adult Danes. Anything smaller forces these tall dogs to hunch, which is uncomfortable and stressful over time.
Space Requirements and Placement
Before purchasing, measure your available floor space. This crate is 54 inches long and 30 inches wide. You need a dedicated corner or area in your home.
The 46-inch height means it will not fit under standard dining tables or low shelves. Plan your placement carefully before ordering. Once assembled, the casters allow you to reposition it for cleaning.
10. IRONCK Dog Crate Furniture 43.3-Inch with Storage Shelf
Pros
- Attractive furniture-style design doubles as sideboard
- 1.0mm thick iron rods resist biting damage
- FSC-certified wood construction
- 180 lb tabletop capacity for decor
- Built-in storage shelf and 4 hooks
- Metal door lock for security
- Available in Brown and Grey
Cons
- Wood material quality concerns
- Heavy and difficult to move once assembled
- May not fit very large or tall dogs
The IRONCK dog crate furniture is the answer for owners who refuse to put an ugly wire cage in their living room. I placed this in my home office and it genuinely looks like a sideboard or console table. Guests have asked where I got my furniture, not realizing it is a dog crate.
The FSC-certified wood construction combined with 1.0mm thick iron rods creates a hybrid design that is both attractive and functional. The iron rods are thick enough to resist biting and damage from most dogs. The metal door lock secures firmly.
The 180-pound tabletop capacity means you can place decor, plants, or storage baskets on top without worry. The built-in storage shelf and four hanging hooks add practical utility for leashes, treats, and toys. This crate genuinely functions as furniture first and a pet enclosure second.
The interior dimensions of 43.3 inches work well for medium-large breeds up to about 80 pounds. Very large or tall dogs may find the interior height limiting, so measure your dog standing up before ordering.
Best for Home Decor Integration
If you live in an apartment or simply value interior aesthetics, this crate solves the visual problem of standard wire cages. The wood finish blends with most decor styles and the design elevates the look of any room.
Reddit users note that furniture-style crates are gaining popularity for exactly this reason. They allow you to maintain a polished home while still providing a den space for your dog.
Durability and Cleaning
The iron rods clean easily with a damp cloth. The wood surface requires occasional dusting and care like any furniture piece. The metal door lock is more secure than typical wire crate latches.
One concern from reviews is the wood quality. While the FSC certification is a positive environmental signal, some users felt the wood could be thicker. For the price, I found the construction acceptable but not premium.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Dog Crate for Large Dogs?
Choosing the right large dog crate comes down to four key factors: size, material, security, and portability. I have broken down each below based on my testing experience and feedback from veterinarians and trainers.
How to Measure Your Dog for the Right Crate Size
The veterinarian-recommended sizing method is simple. Measure your dog from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail, then add 4 inches. That gives you the minimum interior length your crate needs.
For height, measure from the floor to the top of your dog’s head when standing, then add 2 to 4 inches. Your dog should be able to stand at full height without touching the crate ceiling.
Here is a general breed-to-crate-size guide based on our research:
36-inch crates work for dogs 41 to 70 pounds, including Cocker Spaniels, small Labrador Retrievers, and female German Shepherds. 42-inch crates fit dogs 50 to 80 pounds, including male Labradors, Boxers, and standard German Shepherds. 48-inch crates accommodate dogs 70 to 100 pounds, including Rottweilers, Dobermans, and smaller Mastiffs. 54-inch crates are for giant breeds over 90 pounds, including Great Danes, English Mastiffs, and Saint Bernards.
Wire vs Plastic vs Heavy-Duty vs Soft-Sided
Wire crates are the most versatile option for home use. They offer excellent ventilation, fold flat for storage, and work well for crate training. The downside is that determined dogs can bend the bars or escape through latches.
Plastic crates like the Petmate Vari Kennel are best for travel. They are airline-approved, enclosed for a den-like feel, and resist visual triggers for reactive dogs. However, they do not fold flat and can feel stuffy in warm weather.
Heavy-duty steel crates from LEMBERI, Hiwokk, and BOLDBONE are the choice for powerful breeds and escape artists. They cost more but provide security that wire crates cannot match. If your dog has separation anxiety that leads to escape attempts, a heavy-duty crate is worth the investment.
Soft-sided crates are strictly for travel and calm dogs. They are incredibly lightweight and portable but will not contain a chewer or digger. For car safety specifically, consider our crash-tested crate recommendations for SUVs instead.
Furniture-style crates like the IRONCK blend form and function for indoor use. They look like real furniture but may not work for the largest breeds.
Security Features to Look For
The latch system is your primary security feature. Standard slide-bolt latches work for most crate-trained dogs. For escape artists, look for heavy-duty crates with dual locks that require two hands to operate.
The divider panel is essential if you are crate training a puppy. It lets you adjust the interior space as your puppy grows, preventing the common problem of a pup soiling in one corner of an oversized crate.
Lockable wheels are valuable on heavy-duty crates. They let you reposition the crate for cleaning without lifting 80-plus pounds of steel.
Comfort and Ventilation
Wire crates offer the best airflow of any crate type. The open design means heat does not build up inside. Plastic and soft-sided crates need adequate ventilation holes or mesh panels to prevent overheating.
Adding a crate pad or orthopedic dog bed inside makes the crate more comfortable, especially for senior dogs with joint issues. Look for washable options since accidents happen.
The leak-proof tray or pan is your cleanup safety net. Make sure it slides out easily for hosing off after accidents or illness.
FAQs
What size crate should a large dog have?
A large dog should have a crate that measures at least 4 inches longer than their nose-to-tail measurement. For dogs 41-70 lbs, a 36-inch crate works. For dogs 50-80 lbs, choose a 42-inch crate. Dogs 70-100 lbs need a 48-inch crate, and giant breeds over 90 lbs require a 54-inch crate.
Do vets recommend dog crates?
Yes, most veterinarians recommend dog crates for housetraining, travel safety, and providing a secure den space. Vets emphasize that crates should never be used as punishment and that dogs should not be crated for excessive periods. Proper sizing is important to prevent stress and injury.
What is crate syndrome?
Crate syndrome refers to physical and psychological problems that develop when a dog is kept in a crate for too long. Symptoms include muscle atrophy, anxiety, aggression, depression, and loss of housetraining habits. Vets recommend limiting crate time to 4-6 hours for adult dogs and never crating a dog overnight without adequate exercise.
Are wire crates or plastic crates better for large dogs?
Wire crates are better for home use because they offer superior ventilation, fold flat for storage, and allow you to see your dog at all times. Plastic crates are better for travel because they are airline-approved and provide an enclosed, den-like environment. Heavy-duty steel crates are best for escape artists and powerful chewers.
How do I stop my large dog from escaping his crate?
To stop escape attempts, upgrade to a heavy-duty steel crate with dual-lock latches, ensure the crate is the right size so your dog feels secure, provide adequate exercise before crating, and address the underlying anxiety. Standard wire crates can be reinforced with carabiner clips on latches, but determined escape artists need a purpose-built escape-proof crate.
Conclusion: Our Top Picks for 2026
After three months of testing 10 crates with dogs from 55 to 120 pounds, my recommendations are clear. The MidWest iCrate 36-inch remains my editor’s choice for medium-large breeds because of its proven durability, divider panel, and incredible value. For the best combination of size and price, the Amazon Basics 42-inch double door crate is unbeatable.
If you have a powerful breed or a dog with anxiety, skip the wire crates entirely and invest in the LEMBERI 48-inch or BOLDBONE 54-inch heavy-duty steel crates. These are the best dog crates for large dogs that simply cannot be contained by standard enclosures.
For travel, the Petmate Vari Kennel covers airline requirements, and the Amazon Basics soft-sided crate handles road trips and hotel stays. And if aesthetics matter, the IRONCK furniture crate proves you do not have to sacrifice your home decor for your dog’s den space.
Measure your dog carefully, choose the right material for your situation, and invest in quality. Your dog deserves a crate that keeps them safe and comfortable for years to come.
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