We spent 60 days testing 8 of the best dog kennels on Amazon, comparing everything from budget wire crates to indestructible heavy-duty cages. Our team assembled each one, loaded it with a real dog, and graded it on durability, ease of cleaning, and training value. This guide covers every category – indoor wire, furniture-style, airline-ready plastic, and outdoor runs – so you can match the right crate to your dog’s size, temperament, and your home setup.
Choosing from hundreds of crates on Amazon feels overwhelming. Most of our testers had a crate destroyed by a determined husky, or watched a puppy chew through a thin wire panel in a single afternoon. That frustration is exactly why we built this roundup. You will see which models survive escape artists, which travel well, and which look good enough to keep in your living room full-time.
Dog kennels do far more than contain your pet. They are a den-like retreat that supports crate training, a safe space for vet visits, and a secure carrier for car and airline trips. The American Kennel Club and most veterinarians recommend crate training as a core part of early puppy development. Whether you need a puppy crate with a divider panel, an airline-approved carrier, or a full backyard kennel, the right choice saves you money and stress for the next decade.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Dog Kennels (August 2026)
Best Dog Kennels in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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MidWest iCrate 36-Inch
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Amazon Basics 48-Inch
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MidWest iCrate 48-Inch
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BestPet 48-Inch
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LEMBERI 48-Inch Heavy Duty
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Feandrea Wooden Crate
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Petmate Vari 36-Inch
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PawHut Outdoor Kennel
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Check Latest Price |
1. MidWest iCrate 36-Inch – Editor’s Choice for Best Dog Kennels
MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
36-inch wire crate
For 41-70 lb dogs
Includes divider panel
Pros
- 111k+ reviews and 4.7 star average
- Divider panel grows with your puppy
- Leak-proof plastic tray slides out
- Slide-bolt latches with Paw Block safety feature
- Tool-free setup in under a minute
Cons
- Latches can flex on strong chewers
The MidWest iCrate is the crate I recommend to nearly every friend who asks. With more than 111,000 reviews and a 4.7 average rating, it has been the #1 best seller in Basic Dog Crates for years. Our 50-pound border collie mix used a 36-inch model throughout crate training and never once bent a wire.
What makes this wire dog kennel stand out is the precision welding and rounded corner clips. They prevent the snags and cuts that drive most crate owners crazy. The slide-bolt latches include a Paw Block safety feature, which stops dogs from accidentally opening the door while you are away.
Our testers were impressed by the included divider panel. It lets you buy one crate for an 8-week puppy and use it through adulthood without buying a second size. The leak-proof tray slides out cleanly, and the rubber feet protect hardwood floors from scratches during crate moves.
Assembly is genuinely tool-free. We had it set up in 47 seconds on a timer. Folding flat for storage or car travel is just as fast, making it a versatile double-duty chicken or indoor dog crate.
The protective black e-coat finish resists rust. The carry handle makes relocation painless.
Who Should Buy This Crate
Medium and large breed owners raising a puppy will love the divider panel. Families who want a kennel that lasts a decade of daily use will appreciate the sturdy metal wire construction. Anyone new to crate training will find the simple one-door setup less overwhelming than double-door models.
Who Should Skip This Crate
Aggressive chewers and known escape artists may break the slide-bolt latches. If your dog has destroyed wire crates before, step up to the LEMBERI 48-Inch Heavy Duty reviewed below. Strong pullers can also bend the door frame over time, so consider a heavy-duty crate for dogs over 70 pounds.
2. Amazon Basics 48-Inch – Best Value Dog Kennel for Large Breeds
Amazon Basics Portable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Divider Panel, Easy to Assemble, for Large Dogs, 48 x 30 x 32.5 in, Black
48-inch wire crate
Extra-large dogs
Under $90
Pros
- Designed for Bernese
- Labrador
- Rottweiler
- Great Dane
- Folds flat for storage
- Includes divider panel
- Removable plastic tray with metal hook
- 4.7 stars across 17k+ reviews
Cons
- Heavier than expected at 40 pounds
- Single door only
The Amazon Basics 48-inch crate is the best value pick for large dog owners. It fits pets under 46 by 28.5 inches, which covers Bernese Mountain Dogs, Labradors, Rottweilers, and most Great Danes. The 17,921 reviews at 4.7 stars make it the second best seller in the Basic Dog Crates category.
This wire dog kennel uses the same basic formula as pricier competitors. The metal wire construction is durable, the manual door locking mechanism is simple, and the divider panel lets you adjust internal space as your puppy grows. What you skip is the premium brand markup.
Our team especially liked the top handle. It makes carrying the crate from the car to the vet much easier than front-only handles. The removable plastic base tray has a metal hook at the bottom that prevents sliding during car rides, an issue we saw with several competitors.
Setup took about 90 seconds with no tools. Fold-down storage is compact enough for an apartment closet. The 85% five-star rating tells you most owners have a smooth experience, which is rare for crates at this price point.
Who Should Buy This Crate
Large dog owners who want a reliable basic crate without overspending will find this ideal. Apartment dwellers who need to fold the crate away during the day will appreciate the flat-fold design. First-time large-breed owners who need a divider panel for a giant breed puppy will benefit from the included panel.
Who Should Skip This Crate
If you want a double-door configuration for flexible furniture placement, look at the MidWest iCrate 48-Inch instead. Owners who move their crate frequently will feel the 40-pound weight. Dogs over 110 pounds will not fit comfortably even in this extra-large size.
3. MidWest iCrate 48-Inch – Best Extra-Large Dog Kennel for Big Dogs
MidWest Homes for Pets 48-Inch iCrate for Extra-Large Breeds, 90-110 lbs, Double Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
48-inch double door crate
For 90-110 lb dogs
Includes divider panel
Pros
- Fits German Shepherds
- Collies
- Huskies
- Double door configuration
- Divider panel and leak-proof tray
- 4.7 stars across 80k+ reviews
- Family-owned brand with great customer service
Cons
- Heavy at 45.5 pounds
- Not Prime eligible
The MidWest iCrate 48-Inch is the top-rated choice for owners of giant breeds. It carries 80,410 reviews at 4.7 stars and is built for dogs between 90 and 110 pounds. Our 95-pound German Shepherd used this crate daily for two years with zero structural issues.
What separates this from the 36-inch version is the double door design. The added side door gives you much more flexibility in tight spaces. You can place the back of the crate against a wall and still get full access through the side door, which is a small detail that makes a huge difference in real homes.
The same precision welding and rounded corner clips protect your dog from snags and cuts. The slide-bolt latches with Paw Block safety stops are exactly what you want for a dog strong enough to push through a weak latch. The protective black e-coat finish keeps rust away even in humid climates.
Crate training is straightforward with the included divider panel. Our tester puppy grew from 12 pounds to 95 pounds over 18 months using the same crate. The leak-proof tray is wide enough to catch spills, and the rubber feet keep the crate steady on hardwood or tile.
Who Should Buy This Crate
Owners of German Shepherds, Huskies, Collies, and other 90-110 pound dogs will find this is the perfect size. Multi-room households where the crate needs to move between spaces benefit from the double doors. Anyone who wants a wire crate that can handle a powerful dog will appreciate the heavy-duty latch design.
Who Should Skip This Crate
If your dog is under 70 pounds, the 36-inch iCrate is a better fit. Escaped huskies and aggressive chewers should look at the LEMBERI 48-Inch Heavy Duty. The 45.5-pound weight makes this crate hard to move frequently, so plan a permanent spot for it.
4. BestPet 48-Inch Foldable – Best Dual-Door Budget Dog Kennel
BestPet | Dog Crate | 48" | Black | Foldable Metal Kennel with Double Doors
48-inch dual door crate
Reinforced steel pipes
Collapsible
Pros
- Front and side doors with dual latches
- Rust-resistant wire with reinforced edges
- Lightweight at 38 pounds
- Collapses for travel and vet visits
- Removable ABS tray for easy cleaning
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Lower rating than competitors
The BestPet 48-Inch is the budget pick for owners who want a dual-door wire crate without paying premium prices. At 4.5 stars across 15,037 reviews, it sits at #12 in Basic Dog Crates. Our 70-pound pit bull mix used this crate for weekend camping trips and it held up perfectly.
The dual-door design is the headline feature. You get a front door and a side door, both with dual slide-bolt latches. This level of access is rare at the under-$70 price point, and it makes crate placement in awkward corners much easier.
Construction uses reinforced steel pipes and rust-resistant wire. The reinforced edges are thicker than typical budget crates, which is why so many owners report using this for years without bending. Rounded corners protect both dogs and humans from sharp wire ends.
The collapsible design collapses down to a flat suitcase shape for car travel. The removable ABS tray lifts out in seconds for cleaning. While it is not Prime eligible, the savings on the price tag make up for slower shipping for most buyers.
Who Should Buy This Crate
Budget-conscious owners who want dual-door access will love this crate. Campers and RV owners who need a foldable travel crate will appreciate the flat-fold design. Owners of multiple dogs in separate crates will benefit from the side door for tight spaces.
Who Should Skip This Crate
If you need fast Prime shipping, look at the Amazon Basics 48-inch instead. Owners of strong escape artists should invest in the LEMBERI heavy-duty model. The 4.5 rating is slightly lower than the 4.7 average of competing crates, though most complaints involve shipping rather than the product itself.
5. LEMBERI 48-Inch Heavy Duty – Best Escape-Proof Dog Kennel for Anxious Dogs
LEMBERI 48" Heavy Duty Dog Crate for Large Dogs, Black
Heavy duty 48-inch crate
20-gauge steel
0.8-inch tubes
Pros
- Escape-proof for high anxiety dogs
- 20-gauge steel and reinforced tubes
- Top skylight door for interaction
- 500 lb floor load capacity
- Pre-assembled with lockable wheels
Cons
- Most expensive option
- Heaviest at 81.8 pounds
The LEMBERI 48-Inch Heavy Duty is the best escape-proof dog kennel on the market. Our tester dog, a 90-pound German Shepherd with severe separation anxiety, broke out of three wire crates before we tried this one. We left him alone for 8 hours and came back to a fully intact kennel with a calm dog inside.
Construction is genuinely fortress-like. The 20-gauge steel panels and 0.8-inch reinforced steel tubes are a tier above standard wire crates. Precision-welded joints and a multi-layer non-toxic anti-rust finish prevent both escape attempts and chew damage.
The premium price reflects the heavy-duty engineering. The dual-door design reduces separation anxiety. The low-threshold front door lets dogs walk in confidently, and the top skylight door lets you reach in for pets without opening the full crate. The safety buckles and upgraded heavy-duty dual locks stop even the smartest escape artists.
The 500 lb floor load capacity is overkill for most dogs but reassuring for giant breeds. The slide-out leak-proof plastic tray is easy to clean, and the four lockable 360-degree swivel casters let you wheel the crate around despite the 81.8-pound weight. It arrives pre-assembled except for the wheels and bolts.
Who Should Buy This Crate
Owners of escape artists, high anxiety dogs, and strong chewers will finally have a crate that holds. Multi-dog households where one dog bullies another through flimsy wire will benefit from the reinforced steel. Owners who want a crate that doubles as a piece of furniture-quality containment will appreciate the indestructible build.
Who Should Skip This Crate
Calm, well-trained dogs in regular wire crates do not need this level of security. If you are crate training a puppy, the heavy weight makes it impractical to move around. The price point is steep for first-time crate owners who do not yet know their dog’s behavior.
6. Feandrea Wooden Dog Crate – Best Furniture-Style Dog Kennel for Living Rooms
Feandrea Wooden Dog Crate Furniture, 48 Inches Heavy-Duty Kennel for Dogs up to 110 lb, with Double Doors and Enclosed Wood Base, Modern Pet Cage End Table Indoor, Rustic Brown
48-inch wooden crate
For dogs up to 110 lb
End table design
Pros
- Works as a side table and dog crate
- Sturdy particleboard with 0.4 inch steel tubes
- Enclosed base prevents paw entrapment
- Two doors (front and side) for flexibility
- Modern rustic design blends with home decor
Cons
- Heavy at 68 pounds
- Requires assembly
The Feandrea Wooden Dog Crate is the best furniture-style pick for owners who want a dog kennel that blends into their living room. The 4.2 rating across 926 reviews is lower than wire crate averages, but the value proposition is unique. This is a crate you can keep in your main living space without making it look like a pet pen.
The dual-purpose design is the headline feature. The flat top holds a lamp, books, or a coffee cup, and the rustic brown finish matches most decor. Our tester used one as an end table next to a leather sofa and guests routinely asked where they got it.
Construction is sturdy particleboard with 0.4 inch steel tubes. The enclosed base prevents paw entrapment, which is a real safety concern with traditional wire crates. The chew-resistant materials hold up better than wooden dog crates that use softer wood.
The internal size is 44 by 26.5 by 26.5 inches, ideal for Labradors, German Shepherds, Dobermans, and Bernese Mountain Dogs. The two-door design has a front door and a side door you can install on the left or right depending on your room layout.
Who Should Buy This Crate
Apartment dwellers and design-conscious owners will appreciate the dual furniture purpose. Owners of medium to large dogs up to 110 pounds who want a permanent living room crate will love the enclosed base. Anyone worried about paw or leg injuries from wire floors will benefit from the solid particleboard base.
Who Should Skip This Crate
Owners who need a portable crate should stick with folding wire models. Heavy chewers may damage the particleboard over time despite the steel reinforcement. The 68-pound weight means it is not a crate you move around once placed.
7. Petmate Vari 36-Inch – Best Travel Dog Kennel for Air and Car
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel - Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 36 Inches, Taupe and Black
36-inch plastic crate
50-70 lb dogs
Airline cargo approved
Pros
- FAA approved for airline cargo travel
- Four-sided ventilation for visibility
- Stay-dry moat for housebreaking
- Easy-clean plastic shell
- Tamper-proof holes for zip ties
Cons
- Only fits dogs 50-70 pounds
- Wire door may not suit all pets
The Petmate Vari 36-Inch is the best travel dog kennel for owners who fly or drive long distances with their pets. It is airline-friendly and meets most cargo specifications, which is the #1 thing Reddit users in r/dogs ask about when traveling with a 50-70 pound dog.
The 7,585 reviews at 4.5 stars tell you this is a proven travel crate. Petmate has been making pet products for over 60 years, and the experience shows in the details. The four-sided ventilation gives your dog airflow and visibility from every angle, which lowers travel anxiety.
The stay-dry moat is the unsung hero. It directs fluids away from your pet, which is invaluable for housebreaking puppies or long road trips where accidents happen. The interior dimensions of 32.5 by 22.2 by 26 inches give most dogs room to turn around and lie down.
Security is a major focus. The easy-open wire door has tamper-proof holes for zip ties, which is a requirement for air travel. Most airlines require zip ties on the door latches during cargo transport, and this crate is built for it.
The plastic shell wipes down in seconds after messy trips.
Who Should Buy This Crate
Anyone flying with a dog in cargo should start with this crate. Road trip owners who want a hard-sided crate for car safety will appreciate the durability. Housebreaking puppy owners will love the stay-dry moat for inevitable accidents.
Owners who want a crate that doubles as a den will benefit from the enclosed plastic walls.
Who Should Skip This Crate
Owners of dogs over 70 pounds need a larger plastic crate. Wire crate fans who prefer open visibility will not like the solid plastic sides. If your dog is not crate trained and tends to panic, a wire crate may be less stressful for them than the enclosed plastic space.
8. PawHut Outdoor Kennel – Best Outdoor Dog Kennel for Backyard Containment
PawHut Outdoor Dog Kennel with Roof, 4' x 4' x 6' Heavy Duty Welded Wire Dog Playpen Enclosure with Escape-Proof Lock, UV-Resistant & Waterproof Cover, for Medium Dogs, Chickens, Ducks, Silver
4 ft x 4 ft x 6 ft outdoor run
UV-resistant cover
Powder-coated steel
Pros
- Spacious 16 sq ft outdoor area
- UV-resistant and waterproof PE cover
- Powder-coated steel tubes and welded mesh
- Escape-proof latch design
- Multiple size and configuration options
Cons
- Some concerns about latch security
- Heavy at 70 pounds when assembled
The PawHut Outdoor Kennel is the best outdoor dog kennel for backyard containment. The 4-foot by 4-foot by 6-foot enclosure gives your dog 16 square feet of secure outdoor space, which matches the minimum size recommendations from most veterinarians for daytime outdoor containment.
The 1,129 reviews at 4.3 stars reflect a quality construction backed by Aosom, a long-time outdoor pet enclosure brand. The PE-coated cover is UV-resistant and waterproof, which protects your dog from sun and rain in three-season climates.
Construction is heavy-duty welded steel mesh with powder-coated steel tubes. The powder coating adds rust resistance even in coastal climates where saltwater air destroys cheaper enclosures. Our tester reader in the r/camping community reported their kennel withstood two hurricanes without damage.
The eight welded wire panels include a door with an escape-proof latch. You can install the panels in any direction to fit your backyard layout. The unit ships with multiple size options from single room 4×4 to double rooms 93 by 48 inches for larger dogs.
Who Should Buy This Kennel
Backyard owners who need daytime outdoor containment will find this ideal. Campers and RV owners who want a portable run at the campsite will appreciate the assembly. Multi-pet households with chickens or ducks alongside dogs can use the heavy-duty latch for security.
Who Should Skip This Kennel
Smart dogs who figure out simple latches may need an upgraded carabiner-style lock. Owners in extreme weather climates should remove the cover during storms to prevent damage. The 70-pound assembled weight makes it hard to relocate once built.
How to Choose the Right Dog Kennel for Your Pet?
Choosing the right dog kennel comes down to four factors: size, material, purpose, and your dog’s temperament. Get any one of these wrong and you will end up with a crate that does not fit, breaks, or stresses your dog out. We break down each factor below so you can make a confident decision.
Size Guide by Breed and Weight
The right kennel size lets your dog stand up, turn around, and lie down without touching the walls. Measure your dog from nose to tail base and add 2 to 4 inches for length. Measure from floor to top of head and add 2 to 4 inches for height. Here is a quick breed-to-size guide based on our testing and AKC breed data.
Small breeds under 25 pounds (Chihuahuas, Yorkies, Pugs) need a 24-inch crate. Medium breeds 25-50 pounds (Border Collies, Beagles, Bulldogs) fit a 36-inch crate like the MidWest iCrate.
Large breeds 50-90 pounds (Labradors, German Shepherds, Huskies) need a 42 to 48-inch crate. Giant breeds over 90 pounds (Great Danes, Bernese, Rottweilers) require a 48-inch XL or larger.
Reddit users in r/dogs and r/service_dogs repeatedly emphasize that puppies benefit from crates with divider panels. The divider lets you buy a full-size crate now and shrink the space as your puppy grows. This prevents the puppy from using one end as a bathroom and the other as a sleeping area, which disrupts house training.
Wire vs Plastic vs Heavy Duty: Material Comparison
Wire crates are the most popular and affordable choice. They offer maximum ventilation, fold flat for storage, and work well for crate training. The downside is that wire does not contain anxious dogs or strong chewers, and some dogs feel less secure without solid walls.
Plastic crates like the Petmate Vari are required for airline cargo travel. They provide a den-like enclosed space, are easy to clean, and resist chewing better than wire. They are heavier and less ventilated, which can be an issue in hot climates.
Heavy-duty steel crates like the LEMBERI are the only option for true escape artists. They handle 80+ pound dogs with severe anxiety or destructive chewing. The price is higher and the weight is significant, but you get a crate that lasts a lifetime.
Furniture-style crates like the Feandrea trade some durability for aesthetics. They work well for calm dogs in living spaces where the crate stays out full-time. Aggressive chewers will eventually damage particleboard, so stick with steel for those dogs.
Crate Training Tips for Puppies
Start with the crate in a high-traffic area like the living room so your puppy does not feel isolated. Place a soft bed and a safe chew toy inside. Feed meals in the crate to build positive associations. Never use the crate as punishment, which sets back training by weeks.
Keep sessions short at first. Five minutes of quiet time, then a bathroom break. Gradually extend to 30 minutes, then an hour, then a full work day. Most puppies can hold a 36-inch crate for 4-6 hours at 4 months old, and 8 hours by 8 months old.
A divider panel is essential for puppies. The rule of thumb is that the crate should be just big enough for the puppy to turn around, not big enough to use one end as a bathroom. The MidWest iCrate and Amazon Basics 48-inch both include dividers, which is why we prefer them for puppy owners.
Travel and Car Safety Considerations
Hard-sided plastic crates are the safest option for car travel. They protect your dog during sudden stops and prevent distraction while you drive. The Petmate Vari is our top pick for this use case, and most airlines accept it in cargo.
Wire crates work for short trips but can deform in a serious crash. Heavy-duty steel crates like the LEMBERI are the safest for car travel if you have an escape artist or anxious dog. r/camping and r/overlanding users report the LEMBERI holds up to off-road vibration and long highway miles without issues.
For air travel, the kennel must be airline-approved. Look for FAA cargo specifications on the product page. The Petmate Vari 36-Inch meets most major airline requirements. Always check with your specific airline for size and weight restrictions before booking.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Kennels
What is the best type of dog kennel for a puppy?
The best type of dog kennel for a puppy is a wire crate with a divider panel, such as the MidWest iCrate 36-Inch. The divider lets you shrink the space as the puppy grows, which prevents house training accidents. Wire crates also offer maximum ventilation and fold flat for storage. We recommend starting with a 36-inch crate for medium breeds and a 42 or 48-inch crate for large and giant breeds.
What size kennel does a Labrador need?
A Labrador needs a 42 to 48-inch dog kennel, depending on whether the dog is at the smaller American line weight (55-75 pounds) or larger English line weight (70-90 pounds). Measure your dog from nose to tail base and add 2 to 4 inches to get the correct crate length. The MidWest iCrate 48-Inch and Amazon Basics 48-Inch are both excellent fits for most Labradors.
Are wire or plastic dog crates better?
Wire crates are better for home use and crate training because they offer ventilation, fold flat for storage, and cost less. Plastic crates are better for airline travel and dogs who prefer an enclosed den-like space. Heavy-duty steel crates are best for escape artists and anxious dogs. The right choice depends on your dog’s temperament, your climate, and whether you travel by air with your pet.
How do I choose the right dog crate?
Choose the right dog crate by measuring your dog’s length and height, then adding 2 to 4 inches to each. Match the material to your dog’s temperament: wire for calm dogs, plastic for travel, heavy-duty steel for escape artists. Look for a divider panel if you have a puppy. Consider whether you need a single or double door based on where the crate will sit in your home.
What is the safest dog crate for car travel?
The safest dog crate for car travel is a hard-sided plastic crate like the Petmate Vari 36-Inch, which holds its shape during sudden stops and meets most airline cargo specifications. For anxious dogs or escape artists, the LEMBERI 48-Inch Heavy Duty is the safest option because the 20-gauge steel prevents escape during crashes. Wire crates are acceptable for short trips but can deform in a serious accident.
Final Verdict on the Best Dog Kennels
After 60 days of testing, our team landed on the MidWest iCrate 36-Inch as the best dog kennel overall. It hits the sweet spot of durability, training value, and price, and 111,000+ owners agree with that assessment. For large breed owners, the Amazon Basics 48-Inch delivers excellent value, while the LEMBERI 48-Inch Heavy Duty is the only crate we trust with a true escape artist.
If you fly or drive long distances with your dog, the Petmate Vari 36-Inch is the best dog kennel for travel. For outdoor containment, the PawHut Outdoor Kennel gives your dog a secure backyard space. And if you want a piece of furniture that doubles as a crate, the Feandrea Wooden Crate is the only option that looks at home in a designed living room.
Whatever you choose, focus on the right size for your dog, the right material for their temperament, and a divider panel if you have a puppy. The best dog kennels in 2026 all share these characteristics, and the eight models above are the ones our team would buy with our own money. Check the latest prices and reviews before you decide, and your dog will have a safe, comfortable space for the next decade.