TL;DR
Choosing between Diggs and Petmate often comes down to a choice between modern luxury and time-tested utility. Diggs offers the Revol, a premium crate known for its “garage-style” door, high-end materials, and aesthetic appeal that fits seamlessly into a modern living room. However, it comes with a high price tag and significant weight, making it difficult to move. Petmate remains the industry standard for durability and air travel, offering plastic crates like the Sky Kennel and Vari Kennel that provide a secure, den-like environment for anxious dogs at a fraction of the cost. While Diggs is ideal for owners who want a permanent, stylish fixture in their home, Petmate is the better choice for frequent travelers or those on a budget. This guide breaks down the performance, safety, and real-world user feedback for both brands to help you decide which is best for your large breed dog.
After testing dozens of enclosures for heavy hitters like Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds, I’ve seen firsthand how a crate can either be a sanctuary or a source of stress. Finding the right balance between structural integrity and your dog’s comfort is essential, especially when dealing with the strength of a large breed. Whether you are looking for something to match your furniture or a tank-like carrier for a cross-country move, the options in the pet gear and accessories market have never been more diverse. In 2026, the focus has shifted toward crash-tested safety and ergonomic design, moving away from the flimsy wire cages of the past.
Diggs vs. Petmate: At a Glance Comparison
Choosing a crate for a large breed involves balancing safety, size, and cost. While Diggs offers modern aesthetics, Petmate has been the industry standard for decades. We compare them below to help you decide which fits your lifestyle and your dog’s needs.
| Product Name | Best For | Price Range | Pros/Cons | Visit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diggs Revol Dog Crate | Modern Home Aesthetics | $375 – $650 | Easy setup, stunning looks / Very heavy, expensive. | |
| Petmate Sky Kennel | Airline Travel | $100 – $250 | Extremely durable, air-approved / Industrial look, bulky. | |
| Petmate Vari Kennel | Anxious Dogs (Den-like) | $80 – $200 | Secure environment, lightweight / No divider included. | |
| Gunner Kennel G1 | Ultimate Crash Safety | $500 – $900 | 5-star crash rating, double-wall / Very heavy, premium cost. | |
| Lucky Kennel Large | Active Outdoor Dogs | $450 – $600 | Rotationally molded, light / Harder to find in stock. | |
| MidWest Life Stages | Budget Utility | $50 – $130 | Folds flat, includes divider / Thin wire can bend. | |
| Petmate Aspen Pet Lebon | Puppy Training | $60 – $150 | Affordable, safe rounded edges / Plastic can absorb odors. | |
| New Age Pet ECOFLEX | Multi-purpose Furniture | $120 – $250 | Doubles as an end table / Not for heavy chewers. |
Diggs Revol Dog Crate
The Diggs Revol is often the first choice for owners who want their dog’s crate to be part of their home decor rather than a hidden utility item. It uses a high-strength aluminum frame and diamond-shaped mesh that prevents paws and noses from getting stuck—a common issue with cheaper wire crates. The standout feature is the “garage door” side entry, which allows the crate to stay open during the day without a door swinging out into your walking path. Your dog will likely appreciate the open visibility, which helps reduce the feeling of isolation.
The Good
- Stunning design that looks like a high-end piece of equipment.
- Collapses easily for storage or transport, though it remains quite heavy.
- Diamond mesh is significantly safer for dogs that tend to bite at their crate bars.
The Bad
- The price is nearly triple that of standard crates, which can lead to buyer’s remorse if your dog rarely uses it.
- Large models are incredibly heavy, making it difficult to drag them between rooms or upstairs.
Our Take: Best for owners with a high budget who want a permanent, beautiful crate for their living room. Skip if you need to move the crate frequently or have a dog that prefers a dark, enclosed den.
Petmate Sky Kennel
If you have ever been to an airport, you have seen a Petmate Sky Kennel. This is the workhorse of the industry. Made from heavy-duty, recycled plastic with high-strength steel wire vents, it is built to survive the rigors of airline cargo holds. For large breeds, the Sky Kennel provides a sense of security that wire crates often lack. The solid walls offer a “cave” environment, which can significantly lower anxiety in dogs that get overstimulated by seeing everything happening around them. If you’re looking for something that is built to last a lifetime, this is it.
The Good
- Approved for most major airlines (with proper labeling).
- Solid construction that handles the weight and power of large breeds effortlessly.
- The rounded interior is often described as “cozier” by dogs who like to curl up against the walls.
The Bad
- It is purely industrial in appearance; it won’t be winning any home design awards.
- Requires assembly with plastic or metal bolts, which can be tedious to take apart for cleaning.
Our Take: Best for dogs who travel by air or those who suffer from anxiety and need a dark, secure space. Skip if you want something that matches your home’s modern aesthetic.
Petmate Vari Kennel
The Vari Kennel is the slightly more “everyday” version of the Sky Kennel. It maintains the same rugged plastic shell but focuses more on home training and vehicle transport. It is lighter than the Diggs Revol and easier to hose out after an accident. For large breeds, the Vari Kennel provides excellent 360-degree ventilation while keeping the dog contained in a puncture-resistant shell. It is a no-frills option that does its job perfectly without the “luxury” markup. Owners of large dogs often find this to be the most reliable option for car travel because of its simplified locking mechanism.
The Good
- Very affordable compared to premium aluminum options.
- Plastic doesn’t rust, making it a better long-term choice for humid environments or garage storage.
- Simple, secure squeeze latch that is difficult for “escape artist” dogs to manipulate.
The Bad
- Lacks a divider, meaning you may need to buy a smaller size for a puppy and upgrade as they grow.
- The plastic can trap heat if placed in direct sunlight or a poorly ventilated room.
Our Take: Best for budget-conscious owners who want a reliable, easy-to-clean enclosure for home or car use. Skip if you need a crate that grows with your puppy via a divider system.
Gunner Kennel G1
When safety is the only metric that matters, the Gunner G1 is in a league of its own. This crate is double-wall rotomolded, similar to high-end coolers, and has survived some of the most intense crash tests in the industry. For a large breed, this is essentially a mobile bunker. It features stainless steel hardware and a door system that can withstand significant force. While we’ve compared other travel options in our Gunner vs Lucky Duck for large breeds breakdown, the G1 remains the gold standard for high-speed impact protection.
The Good
- Unmatched crash safety ratings from the Center for Pet Safety.
- Built-in drain plug makes it incredibly easy to wash out after a muddy day at the park.
- Superb insulation helps regulate temperature better than thin plastic or wire.
The Bad
- It is extremely heavy; most owners leave it bolted into their truck or SUV permanently.
- The interior space is tighter than a standard crate of the same exterior dimensions due to the double walls.
Our Take: Best for active owners who frequently travel with their dog in a vehicle. Skip if the crate is intended for stationary use inside a small home.
Lucky Kennel Large
The Lucky Kennel is a fantastic middle ground between the industrial Petmate and the ultra-heavy Gunner. It utilizes the same rotomolded plastic technology as the Gunner but is designed to be lighter and more portable. This is a favorite among hunters and outdoor enthusiasts who need to move the crate between a vehicle and a hotel or cabin. The ventilation is superb, and the one-piece molded body means there are no seams that could split under pressure. It’s a rugged choice for dogs that are rough on their equipment.
The Good
- Lighter than the Gunner G1 while still offering superior protection over standard plastic.
- Integrated handle makes it easier to carry than most large breed crates.
- Excellent airflow through the sides and back, keeping large dogs cool.
The Bad
- Higher price point than traditional Petmate models.
- Limited availability at big-box retailers; usually requires ordering online.
Our Take: Best for owners who need a “tough as nails” crate that is still light enough for one person to move. Skip if you are only using the crate for indoor sleeping.
MidWest Life Stages
If you’re raising a large breed puppy, the MidWest Life Stages is a classic for a reason. It comes with a divider panel, allowing you to adjust the size of the living area as your dog grows. This is crucial for housebreaking, as it prevents the puppy from using one corner of the crate as a bathroom. While it lacks the aesthetic punch of the Diggs or the impact resistance of the Petmate Sky Kennel, its utility is hard to beat for the price. It folds down flat like a suitcase, which is a lifesaver for storage.
The Good
- Included divider panel saves you from buying multiple crates as your puppy grows.
- Folds flat in seconds for easy storage under a bed or in a closet.
- Double-door options allow for flexible placement in your home.
The Bad
- Thin wire can be bent by powerful dogs or determined chewers.
- The rattling sound of the metal can be annoying for light sleepers.
Our Take: Best for new owners on a budget who need a “starter” crate that grows with their dog. Skip if your dog has high anxiety or a history of breaking out of wire enclosures.
Petmate Aspen Pet Lebon
The Aspen Pet line from Petmate focuses on simplicity and value. These crates are often slightly more lightweight than the Sky Kennel, making them a good choice for visiting the vet or short trips. For large breeds, the plastic is thick enough to be durable but not so heavy that it becomes a chore to lift. It features a simple nut-and-bolt assembly system that is very secure once tightened. If you prefer the enclosed feel of a plastic crate but don’t need the “overbuilt” nature of an airline-rated carrier, this is a solid choice.
The Good
- Rounded edges and corners prevent snags and are safer for curious puppies.
- Usually very easy to find in most local pet stores.
- Good visibility through the side vents while still feeling like a “den.”
The Bad
- The plastic can eventually absorb odors if not cleaned regularly with an enzymatic cleaner.
- Not as sturdy as the Vari Kennel or Sky Kennel for long-distance travel.
Our Take: Best for general home use and local travel for calm dogs. Skip if you have a high-energy “power chewer” who might test the plastic vents.
New Age Pet ECOFLEX
For those who hate the look of a traditional crate, the ECOFLEX is a game-changer for interior design. It is made from a wood-plastic composite that looks like an end table. While it isn’t as strong as the aluminum Diggs or the rotomolded Gunner, it serves a specific niche: the well-trained large dog who just needs a designated spot to sleep. It blends into the room and can hold a lamp or books on top. If you have already invested in high-end bedding, as discussed in our Big Barker vs Casper for large breeds comparison, this crate provides the perfect frame for it.
The Good
- Beautiful furniture-style design that blends into any living room.
- Non-toxic material that doesn’t warp or crack like traditional wood.
- Extremely easy to assemble without any tools required.
The Bad
- Not suitable for puppies or dogs with separation anxiety; they can chew through the composite material.
- Zero impact protection for travel; this is for indoor use only.
Our Take: Best for mature, well-behaved dogs whose owners want the crate to disappear into the home decor. Skip for puppies or dogs who aren’t yet fully crate trained.
What Real Users Are Saying (Reddit Insights)
To get a true sense of how these crates hold up, I spent hours combing through community discussions on r/puppy101 and other dog-focused forums. The consensus is that while we often want the “best” looking option, the “best” for the dog is usually much simpler.
General Sentiment
Most users on Reddit acknowledge that Diggs creates a superior user experience for the human—it’s easier to open and looks better—but the price is a major sticking point. Petmate is often viewed as the “no-fail” option. If a dog is going to be crate trained effectively, many owners find that the extra $500 spent on a Diggs doesn’t actually speed up the training process. However, the safety aspect of the Diggs mesh is frequently cited as a reason to upgrade from cheap wire crates.
Top Complaints & Warnings
- The Weight Factor: One of the most common complaints regarding the Diggs Revol Large is its weight. Users mention that it is “too much to drag upstairs” for overnight use, often leading them to buy a second, cheaper crate for the bedroom.
- Metal Crate Dangers: Many owners switched to Diggs or Petmate after “wire crate horror stories,” where dogs got their paws or teeth caught in the standard wire spacing.
- Sizing Issues: Plastic Petmate owners frequently warn that you will likely need to buy two crates—one for the puppy stage and one for adulthood—because most plastic models do not come with dividers.
“I bought Diggs on a whim after reading horror stories about wire crates. It’s beautiful, but now I second-guess spending that much when a plastic travel crate would have worked for a third of the price.” — r/puppy101 user
Budget Tips & Value Picks
For those looking for value, the community often recommends the Petmate Aspen or Vari Kennel. Users suggest that if you are on a budget, you should put your money into a high-quality bed and use a standard plastic crate rather than splurging on an expensive aluminum frame. Another tip from the community: check local marketplaces for Petmate Sky Kennels, as they are so durable that they are often sold secondhand in nearly perfect condition.
Safety Standards: CPS Certification and Crash Testing
For large breed owners, safety during travel is paramount. The weight of a 70-pound dog in a car accident can generate thousands of pounds of force. This is where “home” crates and “travel” crates diverge. The Center for Pet Safety (CPS) is the industry’s independent testing body. While many brands claim to be “travel safe,” very few pass the rigorous CPS crash tests.
The Gunner Kennel G1 is one of the few to hold a 5-star crash rating. In contrast, while the Diggs Passenger is CPS certified, its larger counterpart, the Revol, is not designed for vehicle impacts. Petmate Sky Kennels are recognized for their structural integrity and are the gold standard for air travel, but they do not carry the same crash-test certifications for vehicle collisions as the rotomolded Gunner. If your primary goal is car safety, your search should start and end with crash-tested models found in our dog products safety reviews.
Best Use Cases for Large Breeds
Best for Home & Aesthetics: Diggs Revol
If the crate will live in your main living area and you want it to look like a piece of high-end equipment, the Diggs Revol is unmatched. The garage door feature is genuinely useful in tight spaces where a swinging door would be a tripping hazard.
Best for Air Travel: Petmate Sky Kennel
Don’t overthink this one. If you are putting your dog on a plane, the Sky Kennel is the standard. It meets the IATA requirements and is built to be handled by baggage crews while keeping your dog secure in the cargo hold.
Best for Puppies: MidWest Life Stages with Divider
Because large breeds grow so quickly, buying a crate that can grow with them is the smartest financial move. The divider panel allows you to keep the space small enough to aid housebreaking, then expand it as your puppy reaches their full size.
Other Notable Alternatives Worth Considering
While Diggs and Petmate dominate the conversation, a few other options are worth a look. The Rock Creek Crate is a premium aluminum alternative that is lighter than the Diggs but equally strong. For those who need a heavy-duty wire option, the KONG Heavy Duty Wire Crate offers thicker bars than the MidWest models. Lastly, if you are looking for a budget rotomolded option, the Cabelas Gun Dog Kennel provides excellent durability for outdoor and vehicle use at a lower price point than Gunner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Diggs Revol crate worth the high price for large breeds?
Whether the Diggs Revol is “worth it” depends on your priorities. For many, the aesthetic appeal and the “garage-style” door make it a worthwhile investment for a living room. However, for the dog, a standard Petmate Sky Kennel often provides the same level of comfort. If you move frequently or are on a budget, the high price of the Diggs may not be justifiable, especially since its large model is quite heavy and difficult to transport.
Are plastic Petmate crates safer than wire crates for puppies?
Generally, yes. Plastic crates like the Petmate Vari Kennel offer solid walls that prevent puppies from getting their paws or teeth caught in wire bars, which is a common injury in traditional wire cages. Additionally, the enclosed nature of a plastic crate helps puppies feel more secure, mimicking a natural den. This can lead to faster crate training and less whining during the night.
Which dog crates are CPS certified for crash safety?
The Center for Pet Safety (CPS) has a strict certification process. The Gunner Kennel G1 is the standout for large breeds, holding a 5-star crash rating. Diggs has certification for its smaller Passenger model, but not the large Revol. Most standard plastic crates, including those from Petmate, are not CPS crash-certified, though they are much safer than wire crates in a vehicle. For the best safety, always check for the CPS seal before purchasing.
Can I use a soft-sided crate for a large breed puppy?
It is generally not recommended to use a soft-sided crate for a large breed puppy. Puppies are notorious for chewing and scratching, and most soft-sided crates can be shredded in minutes. These are best reserved for adult dogs who are already well crate-trained and calm. For a puppy, sticking with a Petmate Aspen or a wire MidWest crate is a much safer and more durable choice.
What is the best crate for a large dog that travels by air?
The Petmate Sky Kennel is the undisputed king of air travel. It is designed specifically to meet IATA requirements, featuring the necessary ventilation, secure bolt assembly, and heavy-duty plastic construction required by airlines. While some Diggs crates are great for the home, they are not typically approved for airline cargo travel. Always check with your specific airline for their current crate requirements before booking a flight.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
If your heart is set on a crate that looks as good as your furniture and you don’t plan on moving it between rooms, the Diggs Revol is a fantastic luxury choice. It solves many of the safety and design flaws of traditional wire crates and offers a high level of visibility for your dog. However, for most large breed owners, a Petmate Sky Kennel or Vari Kennel offers the best balance of safety, durability, and value. These plastic crates provide a superior “den” environment that helps with anxiety and are robust enough to last for years of travel and home use. For those who prioritize road safety above all else, investing in a Gunner G1 is the only way to ensure your dog has the best chance of surviving a vehicle accident.
Before making your final choice, consider where the crate will live and how often you will be traveling. If you’re still undecided, browsing our broader dog products reviews can provide more insight into how these brands compare across different categories.
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Affiliate disclosure: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission if you make a purchase.