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UPDATED : OCTOBER 2024 We’ve updated this review to include more in-depth information about our Top Pick - Ellie-Bo dog crate |
We have a hunch that you're here because you're about to welcome a puppy.
Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time, but it also comes with responsibilities. A dog crate can be a lifesaver, providing a safe and secure space for your pup. It can also aid in potty training and help manage separation anxiety.
This guide will help you choose the perfect crate for your puppy's needs and budget. We'll cover everything from crate size to stylish accessories, ensuring your furry friend has a comfortable and secure home away from home.
Whether you're looking for a luxurious crate or a practical option, we've got you covered.
Best Dog Crates & Accessories : at a glance |
Best Overall Crate : Ellie Bo |
Best Premium Crate : Mid West Homes for Pets |
Best Crate Bedding : Dericor |
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Our Picks of the Best Dog Crates and Accessories
2. Best Dog Crate Furniture : Omlet
3. Best Premium Crate : Mid West Homes for Pets
4. Best Sliding Door Crate : Lords&Labradors
5. Best Crate Starter Kit : Midwest
6. Best Simple Crate Bed : Dericor
8. Best Waterproof Crate Mat : Pup & Kit
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT DOG CRATE SIZE
Before you read on, let's talk size. The right size crate will depend on the size (not the weight) of your dog. As a minimum your dog must be able to sit and stand at full height, turn around, stretch out and lie down in a natural position.
Dog crates tend to be manufactured in a standard range of lengths but some crates and bedding are listed in centimeters and some in inches (just to confuse matters).
So here's an at-a-glance guide to help you buy a crate and bedding which fits. The measurement refers to the length of the crate -
Extra-Small - 22 inch dog crate (56 cm)
Small - 24 inch dog crate (61 cm)
Medium - 30 inch dog crate (77 cm)
Large - 36 inch dog crate (91 cm)
X- Large - 42 inch dog crate (106 cm)
XX-Large - 48 inch dog crate (122 cm)
OTHER FEATURES TO CONSIDER
Duration
If you plan to transition your puppy to a dog bed after the initial crate training phase, a smaller crate will suffice.
However, if you envision using the crate long-term, opt for a larger size with a divider panel. This will offer more in the way of flexibility, allowing you to gradually increase the space as your puppy grows, preventing accidents.
Remember, a crate that's too large can hinder toilet training by providing a space for your puppy to wee in one corner while keeping their sleeping area clean.
Doors
Most dog crates have two doors - one on the end and one on the side. This will give you maximum flexibility for positioning it in your home. Be aware that some cheaper crates only feature one door.
However, if you are very short on space, consider a crate with a sliding door. While less common and more expensive, it's a practical solution for smaller living areas. We feature a sliding door crate by Lords and Labradors later in the review.
Bedding
There are bedding options designed specifically to be used with a dog crate. We'd recommend sticking to one of these options as they tend to be machine washable, quick drying and built to endure those inevitable puppy accidents and chewing.
Water
Your puppy needs access to water at all times which can present a potential problem with crate training. Look at options where the water bowls can be secured within the crate but off the ground to avoid any accidents - (we feature one option later in this article)
Den
Dogs have a natural denning instinct, often preferring safe, enclosed quarters for their naps.
It's really simple to transform your crate from something akin to a cage into a comfortable and secure den.
Consider a made-to-measure crate cover, furniture or even some cosy throws.
So let's have a look at what the best dog crates and accessories on the market for 2024 have to offer you and your new puppy.
OUR PICKS OF THE BEST DOG CRATES AND ACCESSORIES
1. Best Overall Dog Crate
Ellie-Bo
Known for their simple, durable and well designed crates, Ellie-Bo offer the best value crates on the UK market.
Their range has standard and deluxe models along with options for a black or silver finish. Ellie-Bo stock a range of dog crates available in 5 sizes - from 24 in to 48 in (61cm - 122cm)
We took a closer look at their 30 in (77cm) standard model in black. To be honest, if you plan to use the dog crate to train a young puppy in the short to medium term, the standard black is your best value option.
OK so, whether you opt for the standard or deluxe model, they both feature two door openings, one on the front and one on the side. This offers you maximum flexibility when it comes to positioning the crate in your home and bear in mind that the doors swing outwards.
Both doors are secured with two sturdy latches to deal with any budding Houdini's out there. As you can see here, it's a simple mechanism but works exceptionally well.
We found the foldable cage incredibly easy to set up and collapse for storage (no tools needed), just mind your fingers when securing those side latches.
A note on the door design - while the Ellie-Bo crate is a great choice, it's worth noting that the door doesn't open all the way to the bottom. This might be a minor hurdle for miniature breeds, especially puppies. However, once you add a cozy dog bed, it shouldn't be an issue.
It's worth mentioning that Ellie-Bo dog crates come with a carry handle if you need to reposition the crate.
A word of caution for anyone with wooden floors. We'd recommend placing your crate on a doormat or something similar to protect your flooring from scratches.
The steel tray in the base is designed to catch any liquids and we found that because the doors are wide, it's easy to reach in and clean it plus the tray is removable.
The crate is well made, durable with no sharp edges and will stand up well to any serious chewers out there.
We should mention that the difference between the Ellie-Bo standard and deluxe model are thicker bars and the addition of a faux sheepskin cushion.
The truth is that Ellie-Bo crates are a great value option and could potentially be used in the car as a travel crate.
Reasons to Buy
+ Well designed
+ Great value for money
+ Two door flexibility
+ Easy set-up
+ Standard or deluxe models
+ Available in black or silver
Reasons to Avoid
- May scratch wooden floors
Buying Option
2. Best Dog Crate Furniture
Omlet
If you're looking for a crate which looks like a piece of stylish, modern furniture, this could be for you.
Designed around either a 24"or 36" crate, the Fido Studio range not only house the crate but also offer a host of amazing optional extras for a luxury look.
Incredibly flexible so you can order your crate with or without the tray or bed.
A side cupboard is available so you can store all your dog's stuff in one place. Other extras include a bed, storage box and even a clothes rail for the cupboard. What's not to love?
Obviously the Omlet furniture is a more expensive than a simple dog crate, but it looks super stylish and offers a host of options so you can customise your crate for your dog and your space.
If this is a stretch then it's worth noting that Omlet also offer a range of high-quality crates on their own without the additional furniture called Fido Classic.
These are great quality crates, they feature two doors, a carry handle and fold down easily for storage.
We love that Omlet provide all the dimensions of the crate including the door size, door lip and even packaging dimensions so you can measure up at home and order, knowing the dog crate will fit your space perfectly.
Reasons to Buy
+ Stylish dog crate
+ Host of optional extras
+ All measurements on website
Reasons to Avoid
- More expensive
Buying Options
Black Friday Deals - Enjoy up to 20% OFF Omlet's bestsellers
We also review Omlet's amazing range of premium dog beds for growing pups - Ultimate Canine Comfort
3. Best Premium Dog Crate
Mid West Homes for Pets
A great alternative but admittedly slightly pricier than the Ellie-Bo version, is the Mid West Homes for Pets - Ovation Double Door Crate.
All Mid West Homes dog crates are built to an extremely high standard, but it's their Ovation range which really stood out for us.
They feature two doors, one standard door and an extra wide side door. It opens like a garage door and lays flat on top of the crate.
We think that this is a great space-saving feature. When the door is lowered, there is a strong metal channel which secures the door in place.
As with most dog crates, the Mid West Homes for Pets crate is completely collapsible and comes with a handle so it's easy to transport in the house or to the car if you want to use it in the car boot when travelling.
We also love the addition of rubber feet to stop the crate from scratching your floors.
Another design feature is the plastic (not metal) tray which incorporates an edge channel to keep your dog dry. The plastic tray is not only warmer than the metal but has no sharp edges.
If you're looking for a premium dog crate with some well thought out features then you'll be hard pushed to find one better than the Ovation range from Mid West Homes for Pets.
Reasons to Buy
+ Hard wearing coating
+ Plastic tray
+ Floor protectors
+ Optional extras available
Reasons to Avoid
- Pricier than Ellie-Bo
Buying Options
4. Best Sliding Door Crate
Lords & Labradors
Short of space ? Looking for a crate to fit in your car boot ? Take a look at the sliding door crate from Lords & Labradors.
Instead of opening outwards the main door slides to save space. This makes the crate ideal for cramped spaces or for the boot of a car when you are looking to maximise the space available.
This Lords & Labrador crate has two doors, thicker bars than a standard crate and comes with a removable metal floor tray.
Available in 2 sizes. Whilst not the cheapest crates available, Lords & Labradors offer a wide range including standard crates in gold, black and silver finish.
Reasons to Buy
+ Sliding door
+ Perfect for small spaces
+ Two door flexibility
+ Easy set-up
Reasons to Avoid
- Slightly pricier
Buying Options
If you're considering travelling with your dog in the car, we have a range of popular articles which may help - Best Car Boot Liners for Dogs, Best Dog Car Seats, Best Car Seat Covers
5. Best Crate Starter Kit
Midwest
If you're looking for a a great value option with everything that your puppy needs included, then the Midwest iCrate Starter Kit could be the perfect option.
No need to worry about measuring and checking your chosen bed will fit your crate, this starter set from Midwest contains everything your puppy will need for a good night's sleep.
Obviously the kit includes a crate, this one has two doors so you have flexibility on where you place it in your home.
Also included in the set is a Quiet Time dog bed. An ultra-soft synthetic sheepskin with comfortable polyester filled bolsters which fits your crate perfectly.
A Quiet Time crate cover creates a calm space to promote sleeping and finally 2 dog bowls are included which fix to the crate sides to avoid spillages.
Crucially the iCrate Starter Kit works out to be excellent value, considerably cheaper than buying the individual products separately. Everything arrives packaged together and there are 4 size options available.
Similar to the other crates featured, the crates fold flat for storage, there's no assembly required.
If you're expecting a puppy and are looking for the ultimate in convenience, we would certainly recommend the great value Midwest iCrate Starter Kit. |
It's worth mentioning that Midwest also offer a range of crates without the full starter set. Their newly updated crates come with secure slide-bolt latches, rounded corners, a durable black finish and a removable plastic pan for easy cleanup.
Reasons to Buy
+ Everything included
+ Great value for money
+ Two door flexibility
+ Easy set-up
Reasons to Avoid
- If you want to choose your bed/ cover
Buying Options
6. Best Simple Crate Bed
Dericor
If you're looking for bedding with a cosier look and feel, Dericor offer simple and practical padded beds to fit a range of crates from 22" to 36" crates.
Made from artificial sheepskin fleece, these cosy dog beds are not only comfortable and warm they're also great value.
More importantly, they are machine washable and dry extremely quickly which is crucial when toilet training.
They could completely cover the base of the crate or fit in one half to form a smaller sleeping zone.
We've used Dericor beds with two puppies in the past and found they were durable, great value, super easy to wash and dry and our puppies loved them.
Reasons to Buy
+ Great value
+ Super cosy
+ Washable
Reasons to Avoid
- Lacks designer looks
Buying Options
7. Budget Friendly Crate Mat
Vetfleece
Once you've decided on your crate size the next step is choosing bedding. Affordable and very reputable, the Vetfleece bedding is hugely popular with new puppy owners.
Designed to drain liquids away, keeping your puppy dry and comfortable all night long so you can all get a good night's sleep.
The comfy fleece top helps to retain heat, so your dog is nice and warm even if they've had an accident.
The best bit though is that it's machine washable and dries quickly so accidents can be dealt with easily. If you are a new puppy owner, this is a game changer.
We recommend considering buying two to make life easy for yourselves.
The range includes new and improved Vetfleece with a non-slip backing making them ideal for all types of flooring as well as in a crate.
They are available in a range of colours, designs and sizes to fit any of the standard dog crates mentioned in this article.
Reasons to Buy
+ Great value
+ Keeps puppy dry
+ Washable
Reasons to Avoid
- Not the most cosy looking
Buying Options
We take a look at some of the Best Puppy Chew Toys on the UK market that will save your ankles, hands and possibly your favourite pair of shoes. |
8. Best Waterproof Crate Mat
Pup & Kit
For a crate blanket that combines comfort and practicality, the PupProtector from UK-based Pup & Kit is a standout choice.
Crafted with a luxurious blend of Sherpa fleece and natural cotton, this blanket offers a cosy feel while providing essential waterproof protection.
Designed to fit standard crates, the PupProtector is a versatile addition to any puppy lover's arsenal.
Not only is it perfect for crate use, but it also doubles as a sofa cover or a general throw to safeguard your furniture from accidents. Our testers also found it useful in the boot of the car to protect from dog hair and wet paws!
With its machine washable and tumble dry-safe properties, the PupProtector offers convenience without compromising quality.
Whether you're looking for a cosy crate companion or a protective layer for your furniture, the PupProtector is a must-have for any pup parent. Available in grey or cream.
Once your pup outgrows the crate, consider upgrading to a luxurious raised bed. Pup & Kit offers a stunning range of stylish and comfortable options for your four-legged friend.
Reasons to Buy
+ Waterproof
+ Soft and cosy Sherpa fleece
+ Suitable for crates and sofas
+ Machine washable and tumble dry safe
Reasons to Avoid
- Not as padded as Dericor bedding
Buying Options
PLUS don't miss out on an extra 5% OFF at Pup & Kit using our exclusive code - SMARTBARK5
9. Best Dog Crate Bowls
Joyoldelf
Dog and puppies should have access to fresh water at all times.
To avoid accidents and spillages, opt for a dog bowl specifically designed to work with crates.
The Joyoldelf hanging bowls attach to the side of your crate meaning they're off the floor and less likely to be knocked over or dragged around the crate.
The removable stainless steel dog bowl can be filled with water and simply placed back in the holder.
Very sturdy and a clever option to avoid puppies spilling their water.
Reasons to Buy
+ Attaches to crate
+ Easy to fill
+ Less spillages
Reasons to Avoid
- Only use with crate
Buying Options
If you'd like to explore other dog bowls we recommend, take a look at our picks of the Best Dog Bowls for 2024
10. Best Crate for your Car
Thule
Thule are renowned for offering high quality travel solutions, and their dog crate is no exception. Launched January 2024, their Allax dog crates are the crème de la crème of car dog crates, uniquely designed and well built.
As you'd expect from Thule, the Allax dog crate has been rigorously crash tested in their Thule Test Center where they recreated rear-end collisions, front collisions and even roll-over scenarios.
The innovative crumple zone is designed to provide superior protection for both passengers and your dog in the case of an accident. So it's fair to say that this dog crate ensures that both you and your dog are as safe as possible.
Available in 10 different sizes to suit your car and your dog. Whilst not the cheapest option available, it is undeniably the safest.
Reasons to Buy
+ Safest Solution
+ Fully crash tested
+ Could be a long term solution
+ Well designed
Reasons to Avoid
- Most expensive option
Buying Options
Read our deep dive - Crash Tested Confidence: Thule Dog Crate Review
OUR VERDICT
For new puppy parents, the Ellie-Bo crate is a top choice. Its durability, easy assembly, and standard sizing make it a practical and popular option. While other crates offer similar safety and security, Ellie-Bo's combination of quality and functionality sets it apart.
If style is your priority, Omlet's range of chic and modern crates will undoubtedly impress. These luxury crates are perfect for dog owners seeking a stylish addition to their home.
To complete the crate setup, consider coordinating bedding from brands like Dericor, Pup & Kit, or Vetfleece for a harmonious and comfortable space for your new puppy.
DOG CRATE TRAINING TIPS
Hopefully this article has given you some guidance about which dog crate size and design is best for your puppy along with a look at some gorgeous crate accessories to help you design the perfect dog den.
Here are some top tips to help with your dog crate.
✅ Always remove your dog's collar so it can't get caught on the sides of the crate.
✅ Position your crate away from direct sunlight or draughts.
✅ Place some safe, chew toys inside along with something that smells of 'mum'.
✅ To encourage your dog to relax and sleep in their crate, try some background music. Spotify has several playlists with a soothing and calming mix of music for your dog.
If you are looking for some guidance on how to use a dog crate successfully, then the RSPCA have a wonderful step-by-step guide to introducing and using a crate.
Thank you for stopping by and taking a look at our review of the Best Dog Crates and Accessories.
