TL;DR
For most puppies, a folding wire crate with a divider panel and an easy-clean tray is the simplest, most flexible setup for crate training and house training. Choose the crate size for your dog’s expected adult dimensions, then use the divider so your pup has enough room to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably — without extra space to potty in the back.
Top Recommended Crates for Puppies
| Product | Best For | Price | Pros/Cons | Visit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MidWest Homes for Pets Ovation Double Door Dog Crate 30-inch | Most homes (training + easy placement) | $75 – $100 | Space-saving side “garage” door; heavier than basic wire crates | Visit Amazon |
| Impact Dog Crates Collapsible Dog Crate 40.5 x 27 x 33 in | Escape-prone dogs + frequent travel (premium) | $750 – $800 | Heavy-duty, travel-style build; extremely expensive for a puppy crate | Visit Amazon |
Top Pick: Best Overall Crates for Puppies
MidWest Homes for Pets Ovation Double Door Dog Crate 30-inch
Best for: first-time puppy owners in real-world home layouts (apartments, rentals, living rooms) who want an easy-to-place crate for crate training and house training.
The Good
- Two-door layout makes it easier to position the crate against a wall or in a corner without fighting door swing (front door + side door).
- The “up-and-away”/garage-style side door is genuinely practical in tight spaces — you can leave it open without a door sticking out into a walkway.
- Breathable wire design gives your puppy airflow and visibility, which many owners find helpful while a pup is adjusting to alone time.
- Owner feedback often highlights a sturdy, confidence-inspiring feel compared with flimsier wire crates.
The Bad
- Not the lightest option; if you’ll be moving the crate between rooms every day, the extra heft can be annoying.
- The included divider may not be enough for serious escape artists (some determined dogs can bend or push panels).
4.5/5 across 1,126 Amazon reviews
“The Ovation model is by far the best design in dog crates. Its unique slider allows us to feed without a dog making a break for it. I can easily take things in and out without opening the door completely. The metal is thicker, heavier, sturdier than other crates, which is super important because we have mastiffs. Big, strong ones. A flimsy crate will…” — Verified Amazon buyer (5 stars)
“I really like the garage door style door on the side, it works perfectly for the space my dog’s crate is in. A crate that has a side door that opens normally wouldn’t work because of what’s around it and I don’t have enough room in my studio apartment to really make it possible.However, my siberian husky puppy is quite the escape artist, and the divider…” — Verified Amazon buyer (4 stars)
Typical price: $75 – $100
“I love the Midwest Ovation for crate because it has 2 doors, the front one opens out and the side one opens UP to you can leave the crate open in your living room without and annoying door swinging around:” — r/dogs discussion
Our Take: If you’re buying one crate to get through puppyhood with fewer headaches, this style of double-door wire crate is the most adaptable choice — especially for house-training routines where quick access and easy cleanup matter.
Impact Dog Crates Collapsible Dog Crate 40.5 x 27 x 33 in
Best for: households dealing with an escape-prone adolescent (or a puppy who’s already testing limits) and owners who need a collapsible, travel-forward crate for frequent trips.
The Good
- Premium, heavy-duty build that’s aimed at owners who want more security than a typical wire crate can provide.
- Collapsible design is a major advantage if you need to store the crate or transport it regularly (vs. a bulky rigid kennel).
- Owner feedback skews positive from buyers who are willing to “splurge” for sturdiness and peace of mind.
The Bad
- The price is very high — it can easily cost more than other puppy essentials combined.
- This size is likely better suited to adult-dog dimensions; for many puppies, you’ll need to be intentional about using a divider (or choosing a more appropriate size) to avoid too much empty space.
4.5/5 across 109 Amazon reviews
“International Travel Experience!I had a fantastic experience with Impact. We are moving internationally and while I originally ordered Impact’s airline approved crate, it wasn’t going to arrive in enough time for a trial period and some time to get my boy used to the new crate. After frantically emailing Impact and a few good panics, I ordered this crate…” — Verified Amazon buyer (5 stars)
“Good crate, but an expensive for the size. Our dog is happy with her safe space.” — Verified Amazon buyer (4 stars)
Typical price: $750 – $800
Our Take: For a determined “I-can-get-out-of-anything” dog or for owners who travel a lot, this is a serious investment that prioritizes durability — but it’s overkill for many average puppies who just need a basic, well-sized training crate.
FAQ
What size crate should I buy for my puppy?
Buy the crate size your dog will need as an adult, then use a divider panel so your puppy only has enough room to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Too much extra space can slow house training because a pup may use one end as a bathroom and the other end for sleeping.
Is a wire crate or a plastic crate better for puppies?
For most puppies, wire crates are the default pick because they’re adjustable (with a divider), breathable, and usually easier to clean thanks to a slide-out tray. Plastic kennels can feel more den-like and reduce drafts, but they may be bulkier in the home and can be more annoying to scrub after accidents.
Should I get a crate with two doors?
In many homes, yes. A double-door setup makes it easier to place the crate where it fits (like next to a couch or under a counter overhang) and reduces awkward maneuvers when guiding a wiggly puppy in and out.
How do I clean a puppy crate after accidents?
Prioritize a crate with a removable tray/pan so you can pull it out, wash it, and dry it quickly. For odor control, many vets recommend an enzymatic cleaner so the scent doesn’t linger and encourage repeat accidents in the same spot.
Are soft-sided crates okay for puppies?
Usually not during the teething and chewing stage. Fabric crates can be shredded quickly, can be harder to sanitize after accidents, and may create ingestion risks if a puppy chews and swallows pieces.
Do I need a separate crate for car travel?
Often, yes. A convenient home wire crate is great for training, but it may not be the safest or most practical option in a moving vehicle. If travel safety is a priority, review crash-safety guidance like the Center for Pet Safety certified products list and consider a dedicated travel crate that fits your vehicle and can be secured properly.
Is it okay to crate a puppy as punishment?
It’s better to keep the crate as a calm, positive space (rest and safety), not a punishment zone. Humane training guidance from veterinary behavior organizations like the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) emphasizes avoiding punitive confinement and focusing on positive reinforcement and appropriate management.
What crate safety basics should I follow?
Remove collars (and hanging tags) when your puppy is crated to reduce snag risk, confirm the puppy can’t slip through bar spacing, and make sure the latch closes securely. Also avoid crating longer than your puppy can comfortably hold their bladder/bowels — long stretches can increase stress and set back house training.
Bottom Line
The best all-around choice for most puppies is a well-sized wire crate with a divider and easy-clean setup — and the MidWest Ovation Double Door stands out for its flexible, space-saving door design. Use an adult-size crate with the divider adjusted as your puppy grows, and you’ll make house training and daily routines much easier. If you’re dealing with serious escape attempts or frequent travel, a heavy-duty collapsible option like the Impact crate can make sense — but it’s a big spend for typical puppy needs.
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