If you’re a small dog owner, you know that finding the right crate isn’t just about containment-it’s about creating a safe, den-like haven where your furry friend feels secure.
After testing and reviewing countless options over the years, I’ve found that the best crates for small dogs blend sturdy construction with thoughtful features like easy cleaning, portability, and, above all, safety.
In this guide, we’ll cut through the noise and highlight the top dog crates that truly work for breeds under 25 pounds, from classic wire designs to furniture-style pieces that double as home decor.
Best Dog Crates for Small Dogs – 2025 Reviews

MidWest iCrate 24-Inch Dog Crate – Secure & Portable for Small Breeds
The MidWest iCrate 24-inch is a top-tier choice for small dog owners seeking a balance of security and convenience.
With its enhanced safety latches and tool-free assembly, it sets up in seconds and folds flat for travel, making it ideal for home use or on-the-go.

MidWest iCrate Starter Kit 24-Inch – All-in-One Bundle for New Puppies
This comprehensive starter kit takes the guesswork out of crate training by bundling a reliable 24-inch iCrate with a cozy fleece bed, a privacy cover, and two stainless steel bowls.
It’s the ultimate convenience package for welcoming a new small dog or puppy into your home.

MidWest iCrate 22-Inch Dog Crate – Perfect for Extra-Small Dogs
Specifically designed for toy and extra-small breeds under 12 pounds, this 22-inch iCrate offers all the trusted safety features in a compact, lightweight package.
It’s incredibly easy to fold and carry, making it an ideal choice for apartments, travel, or as a puppy’s first crate.

EasyCom Dog Crate Furniture – Stylish & Pre-Assembled for Small Dogs
This furniture-style crate blends seamlessly into your home decor while providing a sturdy, chew-resistant space for small dogs.
It’s 90% pre-assembled for easy setup and features raised feet for cleaning convenience, doubling as a side table or TV stand.

Amazon Basics 24-Inch Dog Crate – Reliable & Budget-Friendly
Amazon Basics delivers a no-frills, highly functional crate that punches above its weight in terms of value and performance for small dogs.
It folds flat for storage, includes a divider, and features a secure locking mechanism, all at an accessible price point.

Aurapaws Diamond Mesh Dog Crate 30-Inch – Enhanced Safety with Wheels
This innovative crate features diamond-shaped mesh for extra bite resistance and safety, along with four lockable wheels for easy mobility.
It’s designed for small to medium dogs up to 70 lbs, offering a secure and comfortable space with excellent ventilation.

FDW 24-Inch Dog Crate – Affordable Double-Door Design
This budget-friendly crate offers a double-door design for flexible access and a foldable, portable build that’s easy to store and transport.
It includes a divider panel and a leak-proof tray, providing solid functionality for small dogs at a very low cost.

FLARUZIY 24-Inch Dog Crate – Thick Metal with Double Door & Removable Top
Featuring a sturdy, thick metal construction and a unique double-door design with a removable top for added interaction, this crate aims for durability and versatility.
It includes a slide-out tray for easy cleaning and is suitable for small dogs under 25 lbs.

REVOMINCA Furniture Dog Crate 41-Inch – Farmhouse Style for Multiple Small Dogs
This large furniture-style crate is designed to house two small dogs separately or one medium dog, featuring a removable divider and a desktop for storage.
It aims to blend into your home as a functional piece of furniture like a TV stand.
Our Testing Process: Why These Rankings Are Different
We began by evaluating 10 of the most popular dog crates specifically marketed for small breeds. Our ranking isn’t based on hype or marketing claims-it’s built on a data-driven scoring system with a 70/30 split. 70% of each score comes from real-world performance factors like safety (latches, construction), ease of use (assembly, portability), and overall durability based on user feedback and design analysis. The remaining 30% is based on innovation and competitive differentiation, like unique features (e.g., diamond mesh, furniture design) that offer a real advantage.
This approach ensures that a reliable, well-built crate with excellent fundamentals always outranks a flashy one with shaky basics. We looked at thousands of data points to understand what works for real owners with small dogs.
For a concrete example, our top pick, the MidWest iCrate 24-Inch, scored an exceptional 9.5 for its nearly perfect blend of security, convenience, and value. In contrast, a more budget-friendly model like the FDW 24-Inch Crate earned a very good 8.7, offering significant savings but with noted compromises in latch smoothness and long-term sturdiness.
Here’s what our scores mean: 9.0 to 10.0 is ‘Excellent’ to ‘Exceptional’-these are crates we wholeheartedly recommend. 8.0 to 8.9 is ‘Good’ to ‘Very Good’-they perform well but come with clearer trade-offs. This method gives you insights based on performance, not just price tags.
Complete Buyer's Guide: How to Choose a Dog Crate for Small Dogs
1. Size and Fit: The Most Critical Factor
For a small dog, the crate must be cozy but not cramped. Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Measure your dog from nose to tail base and head to floor, then add about 4 inches to both length and height. Crates around 24 inches are typical for breeds under 25 lbs, but extra-small dogs (under 12 lbs) may do better in a 22-inch model. A divider panel is invaluable for growing puppies.
2. Safety Features: Latches, Materials, and Design
Look for secure, double-latching mechanisms with features like MidWest’s Paw Block to prevent accidental openings. The wire spacing should be narrow enough (around 1.5 inches or less) to prevent paws or heads from getting stuck. Rounded corners and a sturdy, non-toxic finish are essential. Avoid crates with sharp edges or flimsy locks.
3. Material and Durability: Wire vs. Furniture Style
Wire crates like the MidWest iCrate offer excellent ventilation, portability, and are easy to clean. They’re ideal for training and travel. Furniture-style crates (wood and metal) blend into your home and are more permanent but are heavier and less portable. Ensure any wood is durable and sealed, and metal bars are thick enough to resist chewing.
4. Portability and Storage: Folding and Weight
If you plan to travel or store the crate frequently, a fold-flat, no-tool-assembly design is a lifesaver. Lightweight wire crates excel here. Furniture crates are generally stationary. Handles and carrying options add convenience, especially for smaller models.
5. Comfort and Convenience: Trays, Dividers, and Extras
A removable, leak-proof tray makes cleaning simple. Divider panels help with puppy training. Consider if you want extras like a included bed, cover (for a den-like feel), or bowls. Bundles can offer great value but assess if you’ll use all the components.
6. Ventilation and Visibility
Good airflow is crucial for your dog’s comfort. Wire crates provide the best ventilation. Furniture crates should have ample bar spacing or mesh panels. Some visibility can help reduce anxiety by letting your dog see you, while covers can create a more secure, den-like atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What size crate do I need for my small dog?
A good rule of thumb is to choose a crate where your dog can stand up without crouching, turn around freely, and lie down stretched out. For most small breeds under 25 pounds, a 24-inch long crate is a safe bet. For extra-small breeds like Pomeranians or Maltese under 12 pounds, a 22-inch crate often works better. Always measure your dog and check the manufacturer’s weight and size guidelines.
2. Are wire crates or furniture-style crates better for small dogs?
It depends on your lifestyle. Wire crates are generally better for ventilation, portability, and easy cleaning, making them ideal for training, travel, and warm climates. Furniture-style crates are better if you want the crate to blend into your home decor as a permanent fixture, like a side table. They can be sturdier but are heavier and less flexible.
3. How do I make the crate comfortable and inviting for my small dog?
Start by adding a soft, machine-washable bed or blanket that fits snugly. You can drape a light cover over part of the crate to create a cozy den feel, which many dogs find soothing. Never force your dog inside; use positive reinforcement with treats and toys. Feed meals in the crate with the door open to build positive associations.
4. Is it safe to leave my small dog in a crate for extended periods?
Crates are for short-term confinement and safety, not long-term storage. Adult dogs shouldn’t be crated for more than 4-6 hours at a time during the day. Puppies need more frequent breaks for potty and play. Always ensure your dog has had exercise and potty time before crating, and never use the crate as punishment.
5. What should I look for in terms of safety latches?
Prioritize latches that are easy for you to operate but impossible for your dog to open. Features like dual locks, sliding bolts with locking tips, or patented systems like MidWest’s Paw Block are excellent. Test the latch yourself-it should feel secure and not flimsy. Avoid crates where the latch mechanism is easily accessible or chewable by your dog.
Final Verdict
Choosing the right crate for your small dog ultimately comes down to matching their needs with your lifestyle. For most owners, the MidWest iCrate 24-Inch stands out as the best overall choice due to its proven security, exceptional convenience, and reliable durability. If you’re on a tight budget, the Amazon Basics 24-Inch Crate offers remarkable value without sacrificing core functionality. And for those with extra-small breeds, the MidWest iCrate 22-Inch provides tailored safety in a compact package. Remember, the best crate is one that keeps your dog safe, comfortable, and stress-free, turning it into a cherished personal space rather than just a piece of equipment.
