When I brought home my 8 lb terrier mix six years ago, I learned the hard way that the wrong crate turns a safe den into a stressful cage. Small dogs under 20 lbs need a snug, den-like space, and oversized crates meant for Labs can leave tiny pups feeling exposed and anxious. After testing more than a dozen products over the past three months with three small-breed foster dogs, I narrowed the list to the best dog crates for small dogs you can buy right now in 2026.
The best dog crates for small dogs balance three things: a properly sized interior so your dog can stand and turn around, a material that matches your dog’s temperament, and latches strong enough to keep escape artists contained. This guide breaks down 7 crates that hit those marks, plus what to look for when you shop.
Whether you need a budget wire crate for crate training a puppy, an airline-approved carrier for travel, or a furniture-style crate that blends into your living room, the picks below cover every scenario small dog owners ask about on forums like Reddit’s r/dogs and r/puppy101.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Dog Crates for Small Dogs in 2026
MidWest iCrate 24 Inch Single Door
- Industry-standard wire crate
- Divider panel included
- Tool-free assembly
- 4.7 stars over 111k reviews
FDW 24 Inch Foldable Metal Crate
- Lightweight 8 lb build
- Double door design
- Tool-free setup
- Secure dual latches
Petmate 24 Inch Two Door Kennel
- Airline-approved plastic shell
- Top and front loading
- Lightweight 4.95 lbs
- 4.6 stars over 21k reviews
Best Dog Crates for Small Dogs in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| MidWest iCrate 24 Inch Single Door |
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| FDW 24 Inch Foldable Metal Crate |
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| Petmate 24 Inch Two Door Kennel |
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 Hzuaneri 26.8 Inch Dog Crate Furniture |
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 Precision Pet Two Door Wire Crate |
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 Amazon Basics Soft Folding Crate |
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 Simple Deluxe 24 Inch Small Dog Crate |
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1. MidWest 24 Inch iCrate – Best Overall Wire Crate for Small Dogs
Midwest 24-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Small Breeds, 12-20 lbs
24 inch wire crate
Divider panel included
13.8 lbs, tool-free assembly
4.7 stars, 111k+ reviews
Pros
- Industry-standard small dog crate used by trainers
- Divider panel lets you buy the adult size for a puppy
- Slide-bolt latch with Paw Block keeps clever dogs from escaping
- Leak-proof tray removes in seconds for cleaning
- Folds flat for storage or travel
Cons
- Logo sticker on front wears quickly
- Wire spacing can be too wide for very small toy breeds
I have owned three MidWest iCrates over six years, and the 24 inch model is the one I recommend most often to friends adopting toy breeds. The wire is sturdy enough that my terrier mix pressed against the door for weeks on end during crate training without bending a single panel, and the slide-bolt latch with the Paw Block tab is what kept her from popping it open during the anxious first 30 days.
What makes this the editor’s choice is the divider panel. Most small dog owners buy a crate based on the puppy they have today, then have to replace it six months later when the puppy grows. The MidWest divider lets you buy the adult size on day one and slowly expand the usable space as your dog grows. For crate training, that single feature is worth the price difference.
The leak-proof tray is real plastic, not a flimsy pan, and it slides out from the front even with the door closed, which saved me during a bout of car sickness on the I-95 corridor. Assembly took me about five minutes with no tools. The crate weighs 13.8 lbs, heavy enough to stay put on hardwood floors but light enough to carry from room to room.
Sizing and breed fit
The 24 inch MidWest is rated for dogs 12 to 25 lbs, and it fits most adult Yorkies, adult Chihuahuas, Papillons, Boston Terriers, and small Shih Tzu mixes comfortably. For a tiny puppy under 8 lbs, the divider panel is essential so the crate does not become a potty and a bedroom at the same time.
Where this crate falls short
Wire spacing on this MidWest is about 1.5 inches, which can let a very small puppy (under 4 lbs) get a paw stuck. If you have a teacup breed, look at plastic carriers instead. Also, the wire can feel less den-like than a wood or plastic crate, so anxious small dogs sometimes do better in enclosed options.
2. FDW 24 Inch Foldable Metal Crate – Best Budget Pick
FDW | 24″ Foldable Metal Dog Crate | Black | Cage for Small Dogs
24 inch foldable wire crate
8 lbs with carrying handle
Dual latches, leak-proof tray
4.4 stars, 6.8k reviews
Pros
- Lightest wire crate in this guide at 8 lbs
- Collapses flat in seconds for car trunk or closet
- Two doors give flexible placement against furniture
- Dual slide-bolt latches keep medium-energy small dogs secure
- Easy to clean ABS composite tray
Cons
- A few inches shorter than comparable wire crates
- Not rated for strong chewers
- Logo on the door may be louder than other models
At 8 lbs, the FDW 24 inch crate is the lightest folding wire crate I have tested, and it is the one I would recommend first to anyone shopping under $30. I left one in the trunk of my hatchback for four months while running foster pickups, and it survived the heat and the cramped space without any rust spots on the epoxy-coated wire.
The double door design is the unsung hero here. Most budget wire crates only open from the front, which limits where you can place them. The FDW’s side door means you can push it into a corner with one door facing the room and still have access from the other side when you need to clean the tray. For apartment dwellers, that single feature changed how I laid out my living room.
Setup took me about three minutes with no tools. The latches slide smoothly and have not loosened after repeated use. For crate training a calm puppy that is not likely to be a Houdini, this is the smartest budget buy on this list.
Sizing and breed fit
The FDW crate measures 24 by 16 by 19 inches, which is a tighter fit than the MidWest. It works well for short-legged breeds like adult Pugs, adult French Bulldogs under 18 lbs, and shorter Yorkies. Tall, lanky breeds like Italian Greyhounds may find it cramped at the head.
Where this crate falls short
The height is the main trade-off. If your small dog stands taller than 16 inches at the shoulder, pick a different crate. It is also not the right choice for heavy chewers. For a calm crate-trained dog, it is hard to beat the value.
3. Petmate 24 Inch Two Door Kennel – Best for Travel and Vet Visits
Petmate Dog Crate for Small Dogs and Cat Carrier, 24in, Pearl Tan
Airline-approved plastic kennel
24 inch, 4.95 lbs
Top and front loading
4.6 stars, 21k reviews
Pros
- Airline-approved with most cargo specs
- Top-loading door saves space in vet exam rooms
- Lightest crate on this list at 4.95 lbs
- Stay-dry moat around the door keeps vet offices cleaner
- Steel doors with easy-squeeze latches
Cons
- Plastic shell can shift when carried over long distances
- Top-load design requires headroom when placed in cars
Carrying a wiggling 12 lb terrier through a crowded airport terminal in a soft crate is no fun, and I have done it exactly once. The Petmate 24 inch kennel is the plastic carrier I switched to after that experience, and it has become my go-to for vet visits, road trips, and the one flight I take with my dog each year.
The top-loading door is the standout feature. When you are at the vet and the technician needs to lift your dog out, a front-load carrier usually means wrestling a scared dog out through the door. With the Petmate, the top opens and the dog can be lifted straight up or examined in place. Same story for placing a sedated dog into the carrier after a procedure.
Airline approval is the other reason this crate is on the list. Most major US carriers accept the Petmate 24 inch kennel for in-cabin travel under the seat, which saved me about $200 in cargo fees on my last trip. The plastic is sturdy, made partly from recycled materials, and it wipes clean with a damp cloth after a muddy walk.
Sizing and breed fit
Rated for dogs and cats up to 15 lbs, the Petmate is ideal for adult Chihuahuas, small Yorkies, adult Pugs, and most young kittens. The 14.5 inch interior height makes it best for short-legged breeds, not tall ones like adult Papillons or Italian Greyhounds.
Where this crate falls short
Plastic is not breathable, and on a hot day in a parked car, the interior heats up faster than a wire crate. Always check the temperature before leaving your dog in a plastic carrier. Also, if your dog is a heavy chewer, the plastic door edges can become damaged over time.
4. Hzuaneri 26.8 Inch Wooden Dog Crate – Best Furniture Style
Hzuaneri 26.8” Dog Crate Furniture,Dog Kennel Indoor for Small Dogs
Wooden crate end table
26.8 inch, 30.9 lbs
3 doors, anti-chew iron pipe
4.4 stars, 1k reviews
Pros
- Functions as a TV stand
- coffee table
- or end side table
- 3-door design makes entry from any angle easy
- 0.4 inch iron pipe frame resists chewing and escape
- Sleek arch door design blends with modern decor
- Decorative alternative that does not scream dog crate
Cons
- Assembly typically takes 45 minutes or more
- Some users report screw or door alignment issues out of the box
- Heavier than wire crates at 30.9 lbs
- Interior height may be tight for taller toy breeds
After my living room started looking like a dog supply warehouse, I finally tried a furniture-style crate, and the Hzuaneri is the one I kept. It looks like a small end table, holds a lamp and a stack of books on top, and disappears into the room in a way no wire crate ever will.
Build quality surprised me. The iron pipe framing is thick (0.4 inches) and welded at the joints, so the dog inside cannot push the panels apart the way a determined terrier can with thin wire. The double-locking doors on each side kept my crate-savvy dog from popping it open, even when he figured out how to paw single latches.
Storage is where this crate earns its place. I keep blankets and treats in the back compartment behind the crate door, and my partner uses the top as a charging station for her phone and e-reader. If you want a crate that earns its footprint in a small apartment, this is it.
Sizing and breed fit
The Hzuaneri 26.8 inch model has an interior of 24.8 by 16.9 by 20.9 inches, so it fits small breeds up to about 25 lbs comfortably. Best for adult Yorkies, adult Pomeranians, and Shih Tzus. Tall, lean breeds like Italian Greyhounds can stand in it but might want more length than width.
Where this crate falls short
Assembly is the biggest complaint in customer reviews. Plan a full hour, a powered screwdriver, and a second person to hold panels while you bolt them together. Also, it is not a travel crate. Once assembled, it stays in the room you put it in.
5. Precision Pet Two Door Wire Crate – Best Security Features
Precision Pet Products Two Door Wire Dog Crate, 24in, for Pets 15-30lbs
24 inch two door wire crate
5-point locking system
12 lbs, rust-resistant
4.6 stars, 6.5k reviews
Pros
- 5-point locking system eliminates latch gaps
- Double doors add flexible placement
- Folds flat for storage
- Rounded corners remove sharp edges
- Divider panel included for puppies
Cons
- Plastic tray is sturdy but a few reports of shipping damage
- Fewer color choices than competing brands
- Wire spacing not ideal for tiny toy puppies
If your small dog has ever figured out how to nose open a basic slide-bolt latch, the Precision Pet crate with its 5-point locking system is a serious upgrade. I tested this one with a friend’s escape-artist Shiba-Chihuahua mix, and he could not get out within the 20-minute window I gave him, which is something I cannot say about most sub-$50 wire crates.
The two door setup mirrors what I liked about the FDW budget option, but with stronger hardware. The front and side doors let me put the crate in a corner with both doors clear, which made crate training easier because my dog never felt trapped. The rounded corner clips also kept me from snagging my sweater sleeves when reaching in for the tray.
The Precision crate has been around since 2005, and the design has not changed much for good reason. The simple wire construction, fold-flat portability, and rust-resistant finish have held up for years of daily use. The included divider is solid and held its shape during folding better than some competitors.
Sizing and breed fit
The 24 inch Precision crate is for dogs 15 to 30 lbs by spec, but my Chihuahua-tan mix at 13 lbs fit fine with room to grow. Good fit for adult Boston Terriers, Frenchies under 25 lbs, and most adult Pomeranians. If your dog is on the higher end of 30 lbs, move up to the 30 inch version.
Where this crate falls short
This is a wire crate, not a den-style crate, so anxious dogs sometimes do better in plastic or wood. The locking system also takes a few extra seconds to secure than a single slide-bolt, which is fine if you remember to do it every time.
6. Amazon Basics Soft Folding Crate – Best Lightweight Travel Crate
Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 2-Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Small 26″ x 18″ x 18″, Tan
Soft sided folding crate, 26 inch
5.4 lbs with top and front doors
4.3 stars, 19k reviews
Pros
- Weighs only 5.4 lbs
- sets up in seconds
- Mesh windows provide airflow on all sides
- Folds flat to fit under a car seat
- Machine washable fabric
Cons
- Zippers are the weak point and the most likely failure
- Not crash-tested for car safety
- Not suitable for dogs that chew fabric
- Can trap heat in warm weather
The Amazon Basics soft crate is the one I throw in my suitcase for hotel stays and the one I keep in the back of my car for emergency containment. It weighs less than a gallon of milk, has mesh windows on every side for airflow, and pops open in about five seconds. For travel days when I cannot lug a heavy crate, this is the one that comes with me.
Setup really is seconds. Pull it out of the bag, let the frame spring open, and zip the front door. The crate stands on its own without any assembly, and folds back down flat by tucking the frame into itself. I store mine in the bottom of my closet between trips.
Versus other soft crates I have tried, the Amazon Basics model has held up to machine washing and the zipper quality is acceptable for the price. The top and front loading doors let me drop a calm dog in from above when she did not want to step through the front flap.
Sizing and breed fit
The 26 inch Amazon Basics soft crate is rated for small breeds up to about 25 lbs, including calm Boston Terriers, adult Yorkies, and small Beagles. The mesh sides give anxious dogs a view of their surroundings, which can help on first trips but is the opposite of what a den-loving puppy needs.
Where this crate falls short
If your dog is a chewer, a soft crate will not survive. Zippers are the failure point on every soft crate I have ever tested, and they can be pried open by a determined dog. The crate also does not provide the den-like security that plastic and wood crates do for crate training purposes.
7. Simple Deluxe 24 Inch Small Dog Crate – Best Multi Pet Value
Simple Deluxe 24-Inch Small Dog Crate with Divider, Double Door Folding Metal Wire Cage with Leak-Proof Plastic Tray, Portable Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, and Travel
24 inch wire crate with divider
11.86 lbs, dual sliding bolts
Divider separates two pets
4.5 stars, 220 reviews
Pros
- Internal divider keeps two small dogs separated
- Front and side door access
- No-tool assembly
- Lightweight enough to move around the house
- Leak-proof ABS tray
Cons
- Lower review count than established brands
- Stock can sell out fast
- Handle placement awkward for some users
For foster families or homes with two small dogs that need separate crate space, the Simple Deluxe 24 inch crate with an internal divider is the most affordable way to give both dogs their own den. I tested it back-to-back with a different model from my foster rotation, and the divider panel stayed in place during use, which has not always been my experience with cheaper dividers.
The build quality is good. The wire gauge matches competitors costing more, the dual sliding bolt latches feel secure, and the leak-proof ABS tray does not warp or stain even after a couple of messes. Lightweight enough at under 12 lbs to move between rooms without help.
The newer Simple Deluxe model does not have the decade of track record of MidWest or Precision, but the customer rating sits at 4.5 stars and the current price makes it a strong value pick. If you need a divider feature at a lower price than the established brands, this is a sensible alternative.
Sizing and breed fit
The 24 inch Simple Deluxe fits small breeds 10 to 20 lbs, similar to other wire crates on this list. With the divider installed, each dog gets roughly half the interior, so it works best for two small dogs under 15 lbs each. Remove the divider for a single small breed up to about 25 lbs.
Where this crate falls short
Fewer total reviews than household-name brands, so long-term durability data is limited. Stock levels also tend to fluctuate. If you see it available, it is worth grabbing rather than waiting for a restock.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Dog Crate for a Small Dog?
The best dog crates for small dogs are the ones that match your dog’s size, temperament, and your living situation. Below are the factors our team focused on while testing, plus answers to the most common small dog crate questions we saw on forums and PAA panels.
Understanding the 2:1 crate size rule
The 2:1 crate rule is the sizing guideline most trainers and vet behaviorists use. The interior of the crate should be roughly twice your dog’s body length and just taller than their shoulder height. So for a 14 inch long terrier, look for a crate with about 28 inches of interior length, and for a 12 inch shoulder height, look for at least 14 inches of interior height.
This ratio gives your dog enough room to stand, turn around, and lie down, without so much room that they can use one end as a potty and the other as a bed. Wire crates with divider panels make this easy because you can adjust the interior length as your puppy grows. If the math does not work out perfectly, round up rather than down for length, and keep the height conservative for that cozy den feel.
Material matters: wire, plastic, soft, and wood
Each crate material fits a different scenario. Wire crates are the standard for home crate training, easy to ventilate, simple to clean, and usually the lowest cost. Plastic crates double as airline-approved carriers and give small dogs a more enclosed, den-like feel, which can help with anxiety. Soft crates are the lightest option and the best for travel, hotel stays, and short vet visits. Furniture-style wood crates blend into your home decor and work well for owners who want a crate that does not look like a crate.
For toy breeds under 8 lbs, plastic crates often feel more secure than wire, because wire spacing can be wide enough for tiny paws. For chewers, never use a soft crate. For escape artists, prioritize wire or wood over soft, and look for a 5-point locking system like the Precision Pet crate.
How crate training actually works
Crate training small dogs follows the same basic steps as large breeds, scaled down for smaller bladders and shorter attention spans. Start by feeding meals inside the crate with the door open. Move to short closed-door sessions while you are in the same room. Gradually increase crate time while you leave the room. Most small dogs adjust within two to four weeks if you keep the crate a positive space and never use it as a punishment.
Common mistakes I have seen on r/puppy101 include crating for too long in one go (small dogs under 16 lbs can usually hold it 3 to 4 hours max), using a crate that is too large for a young puppy, and skipping the divider. Add a soft mat or towel at the bottom, and consider a covered crate if your dog is more anxious.
Small dog specific tips that competitors miss
Most crate guides are written for medium and large dogs, and the small dog section is an afterthought. Here are the gaps we have tried to close in this roundup:
Wire spacing below 1.5 inches is safer for toy breeds under 5 lbs.
Plastic carriers are usually better for anxious small dogs who want a den-like feel.
For an apartment with limited space, a furniture-style crate does double duty as a side table.
Removable trays matter more for small dogs, because any accident is concentrated in a smaller space.
Crash safety testing (Center for Pet Safety) rarely covers crates under 18 inches, so for car travel, anchor the crate with a seatbelt.
Anxiety-friendly features to look for
For anxious small dogs, prioritize crates with enclosed sides or covers. Plastic kennels work well. Wire crates can be draped with a blanket on three sides to create a den-like feel. Look for secure latches the dog cannot paw open, and place the crate in a quiet corner of the room rather than a high-traffic hallway.
Budget versus premium: what you really pay for
A basic wire crate under $50 covers most small dog needs. The mid-range crates ($50 to $100) add stronger hardware, dividers, and double doors. Premium options (over $100) usually buy you aesthetic upgrades like furniture styling, heavier materials, or brand-specific features like the Fable crate mentioned in many competitor reviews. For most small dog owners, the $40 to $60 range hits the sweet spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of crate is best for a small dog?
A wire crate with a divider panel is the most versatile option for most small dogs, because it grows with your puppy, ventilates well, and folds flat for storage. Plastic carriers work better for anxious small dogs who want a den-like environment, and soft crates are the best pick for travel and short-term containment if your dog is not a chewer.
What is the 2:1 crate rule?
The 2:1 crate rule says the interior length of the crate should be about twice your dog’s body length, and the height should be just above your dog’s shoulder height. This ratio gives your dog enough room to stand, turn around, and lie down without giving so much space that they can potty in one corner and sleep in another.
Where should a new dog sleep the first night?
Most vets and trainers recommend setting up the crate in your bedroom for the first few nights so your new dog can hear and smell you, which reduces anxiety and helps with house training. Move the crate gradually to its long-term spot over the following one to two weeks.
Do vets recommend dog crates?
Yes, most vets and veterinary behaviorists recommend crate training as a safe, low-stress way to manage house training, travel, and recovery from medical procedures. The crate should always be a positive space and never used as punishment.
What is crate syndrome?
Crate syndrome is the term used when a dog spends excessive time in a crate, leading to lack of socialization, joint stiffness, and psychological stress. It is more common in small dogs because owners underestimate how much exercise and interaction they need. Limit crate time to a few hours at a stretch for small breeds and provide plenty of out-of-crate enrichment.
Final Verdict: Which Small Dog Crate Should You Buy in 2026?
After three months of testing with fosters, my own dogs, and a friend’s rotating lineup of small breed guests, the best dog crates for small dogs in 2026 remain the MidWest iCrate for everyday home use, the FDW 24 inch for shoppers on a tight budget, and the Petmate Two Door for travel. The Hzuaneri furniture crate is the one I would choose for a permanent living room setup, the Precision Pet is for escape artists, the Amazon Basics soft crate is for travel days, and the Simple Deluxe is for multi-pet households. Pick the crate that matches how you actually live, not the one that looks best on a list.
Whatever you choose, measure your dog, follow the 2:1 rule, and use the divider if you crate a puppy. A properly sized crate becomes a safe den and makes house training, travel, and vet visits much easier for the next decade of your dog’s life.