A crate for a small dog isn’t just a mini version of a large one — the wire gauge, latch security, and pan fit all shift at this scale, and a poorly chosen model can turn a safe space into a source of anxiety. Between folded steel, soft-sided carriers, and decorative finishes, the wrong decision wastes money and undermines training efforts from day one.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind WellFizz. I’ve spent hundreds of hours breaking down the metal-gauge thickness, door-latch mechanics, tray-seal quality, and fold-cycle durability of the most popular small-dog crates on the market to identify which ones actually deliver on their promises.
This guide compares seven leading models across wire, soft-sided, and specialty designs so you can confidently pick the best crates for small dogs for your home, your travels, and your training goals.
How To Choose The Best Crates For Small Dogs
Selecting a small-dog crate requires more than matching the label “small.” You need to confirm that the wire spacing prevents paw entrapment, the tray seals without gaps, and the latch system resists jostling from a determined Havanese or Havanese-poodle mix. Focus on three variables: the physical dimensions versus your dog’s adult size, the door configuration for placement flexibility, and the material strength relative to your dog’s chewing habits.
Correct Sizing for Small Breeds
A crate should be tall enough for your dog to stand with ears upright and long enough to lie flat without touching the door. Most 24-inch crates fit dogs up to 20 pounds, but body proportions vary — a long-backed Dachshund may need more length while a stocky French Bulldog needs more width. Measure from nose to base of tail and from the top of the head to the floor, then add four inches to each dimension to confirm the internal space. Models with a divider panel let you adjust the area as your puppy grows, which is why serious trainers prioritize that feature.
Wire Gauge and Frame Construction
The thickness of the metal wire, measured in gauge, determines how well the crate resists bending when a small dog leans against it or rattles the bars. Entry-level crates often use a lighter wire that can warp if pressure is applied repeatedly. Premium models reinforce the frame with heavier-gauge steel and add extra cross-bracing so the crate holds its shape over years of daily use. For small breeds under 25 pounds, a wire gauge of roughly 19 to 21 is standard, but the precision of the welds and the quality of corner clips matter just as much.
Door Type and Latch Security
Single-door crates cost less but limit placement options. Double-door crates, with both a front and a side opening, give you flexibility to position the crate tight against a wall or inside a car trunk. The latch mechanism is the single most failure-prone point on any crate. Look for slide-bolt latches with paw-block features — these prevent a small paw from sliding the bolt open accidentally. Soft-sided crates rely on zipper locks with small carabiner-style clips to keep determined puppies from unzipping from the inside.
Quick Comparison
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| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MidWest LifeStages 24-Inch | Heavy-Duty Wire | Long-term training with divider | 15.5 lbs, 19-gauge wire | Amazon |
| EliteField Soft Dog Crate | Soft-Sided | Travel and indoor den use | 9 lbs, 600D fabric | Amazon |
| MidWest New World 24-Inch | Double-Door Wire | Budget double-door with Paw Block | 12.7 lbs, e-coat finish | Amazon |
| HOMEY PET 24″ Gold Crate | Decorative Wire | Style-conscious home integration | 15 lbs, floor grid included | Amazon |
| X-ZONE PET 3-Door Soft Crate | Lightweight Soft | Car travel and vet visits | 6 lbs, self-locking zippers | Amazon |
| Carlson Pet Products Metal Crate | Entry-Level Wire | Budget-friendly small breed home use | 5 lbs, single-door foldable | Amazon |
| Amazon Basics Foldable Wire Crate | Value Wire | No-fuss daily containment | 13.9 lbs, 15mm gap spacing | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. MidWest Homes for Pets LifeStages 24-Inch Double Door Crate
The LifeStages line uses a heavier-gauge wire than the standard New World series, giving it a noticeably sturdier feel when a small dog pushes against the bars. At 15.5 pounds, the frame stays planted on the floor without sliding when the dog shifts weight. The double-door design includes a front and a side opening, which makes it easy to position the crate in tight corners or against furniture.
The included divider panel is the standout feature for owners raising a puppy. You start with a smaller interior that discourages accidents, then slide the panel back as the dog grows — no need to buy a second crate. The leak-proof plastic tray slides out without catching on the frame, and the slide-bolt latches incorporate a paw-block to prevent a small paw from releasing the door.
Assembly is tool-free and takes about five minutes. Some owners report sharp edges on the wire at the doorway that require a quick file. The 24-inch size fits Fox Terriers, Pugs, and Chihuahuas comfortably. For dogs near 20 pounds, consider stepping up to the 30-inch version so they have enough room to stretch.
Why it’s great
- Heavier-gauge wire resists bending during years of daily use
- Divider panel supports puppy-to-adult crate training
- Double doors give flexible placement and easier access
Good to know
- Some units have sharp wire edges at the doorways that need filing
- Latch may require carabiner clips for extra security with determined chewers
2. EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate
The EliteField soft crate stands apart from other fabric models with its internal dimensions of 24 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 21 inches tall — two inches wider and four inches taller than most competing soft crates at this length. That extra headroom is a real advantage for a small dog that likes to sit up without brushing its ears against the ceiling mesh. The frame uses sturdy steel tubing, and the 600D fabric cover resists tearing during normal use.
Three mesh doors — top, front, and side — improve sunlight penetration and ventilation. The zippers have locking clips that prevent a smart puppy from sliding the zipper open from inside. Two accessory pockets on the top and back hold treats, leashes, or a collapsible bowl. The entire crate collapses to a 3-inch height and slides into the included carrying bag with a padded shoulder strap.
The fleece bed that comes with the crate is thin, so most owners add a thicker pad for overnight comfort. The soft sides are not designed for dogs that scratch or claw aggressively at the walls. For calm small breeds like a Havanese or senior Pomeranian, this crate provides a comfortable den at home and an easy carrier for car trips.
Why it’s great
- More interior height than other 24-inch soft crates for headroom
- Folds flat to 3 inches for storage and travel
- Locking zipper clips prevent determined puppies from escaping
Good to know
- Included fleece bed is too thin for overnight comfort
- Fabric can be destroyed by a dog that scratches or chews the mesh
3. MidWest Homes for Pets New World 24-Inch Double Door Crate
The New World crate shares the same 24.5 x 17.5 x 19.5-inch footprint as the LifeStages but uses a standard-gauge wire rather than the heavier steel. That reduces the weight to 12.7 pounds and lowers the cost. The protective black e-coat finish resists rust and everyday scuffs, and the rounded corner clips are welded precisely to avoid sharp edges that can cut a small dog’s paw.
Both the front and side doors open wide, and the low threshold at each entrance makes it easier for a small dog to step in and out without hesitation. The leak-proof plastic tray sits flush against the bottom frame so liquid cannot seep onto the floor. The slide-bolt latches include the same Paw Block mechanism that prevents accidental opening. One missing item: the New World does not come with a divider panel, so you must size the crate based on your dog’s adult dimensions.
Assembly requires no tools and takes roughly six minutes. Some units have arrived with slight bends from shipping, but the shape corrects easily once assembled. For owners on a tighter budget who still want a double-door crated with secure latches and a corrosion-resistant finish, the New World delivers without the premium price.
Why it’s great
- Lower price than the LifeStages without sacrificing latch security
- Double doors with low thresholds ease access for small dogs
- E-coat finish resists rust and looks clean after months of use
Good to know
- No divider panel included — you must choose the right size from the start
- Lighter wire gauge bends more easily under repeated pressure
4. HOMEY PET 24″ Gold Color Folding Dog Crate
The HOMEY PET crate stands out visually with its copper-gold finish, achieved through nano spray powder technology that creates a reflective, scratch-resistant surface. The metallic sheen blends well with warm-toned home decor, turning the crate from an eyesore into a furniture-like piece. The 23.8 x 16.9 x 20.6-inch dimensions fit French Bulldogs and Bichon Frises comfortably, with the internal floor grid lifting the dog above any spills.
Unlike standard crates that use only a single bottom pan, this model includes both a removable floor grid and a pull-out tray underneath. The grid keeps the dog’s paws dry if the tray collects moisture, and the tray itself slides out for cleaning without removing the dog. Double doors with double latches on each side provide redundant security, and the entire crate folds without tools for storage.
The gold finish does show minor scratches over time despite the scratch-resistant coating. The floor grid is made of ABS plastic, which is durable but can flex under heavier dogs. For owners who prioritize aesthetics without sacrificing foldability and basic containment, this crate offers a polished alternative to the standard black wire box.
Why it’s great
- Distinctive copper-gold finish that fits home decor
- Removable floor grid keeps dog elevated above mess
- Double doors with double latches for extra security
Good to know
- Finish can show scratches despite anti-rust coating
- ABS floor grid flexes under heavier small breeds
5. X-ZONE PET 3-Door Soft Sided Dog Crate
At just 6 pounds, the X-ZONE PET crate is the lightest model in this roundup. The frame uses strong steel tubing, but the 600D fabric cover and small footprint keep the weight low enough that you can carry it by the top handle for extended periods. The interior measures 24 x 16.5 x 16.5 inches, which fits crate-trained dogs up to roughly 20 pounds. The three mesh doors — top, front, and side — roll up and secure with Velcro, letting your dog walk in and out freely during supervised use.
The self-locking zippers are designed so that when you close the zipper pull into its housing, it clicks into a locked position. This prevents a clever small dog from unzipping the door from the inside. Four attached safety belts on the bottom of the crate allow you to strap it into a car seat for secure travel. The exterior cover and the sleeping pad are both removable and machine-washable, which simplifies cleanup after muddy paws.
The included pad is thin, requiring a supplementary bed for comfortable overnight use. The mesh panels, while breathable, are not chew-resistant — an aggressive chewer can tear through them quickly. This crate is best suited for calm, well-behaved small dogs that travel frequently or for owners who need a secondary crate for vet visits.
Why it’s great
- Very lightweight at 6 pounds for easy carrying
- Self-locking zippers prevent dog from escaping
- Four safety belts secure the crate in vehicles
Good to know
- Mesh panels can be destroyed by a dog that chews or scratches
- Interior is shorter than the EliteField — less headroom
6. Carlson Pet Products Secure and Foldable Single Door Metal Dog Crate
The Carlson Pet Products crate is the lightest wire model here at 5 pounds, making it easy to pick up and move from room to room. The single-door design keeps the locking mechanism simple — one slide-bolt latch on the door and one on the top frame for added security. At 24 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 19 inches tall, the interior easily accommodates a Pom, a Chiweenie, or a small Shih Tzu. The wire is not the thickest on the market, but the foldable frame holds together well for a crate at this price point.
The black removable and washable pan is functional but sits loosely in the grooves. Some owners report that the pan can shift enough for a small paw to slip underneath, so adding a snug memory-foam pad helps bridge the gap. The latch is secure when engaged fully; however, customers note that the metal is slightly malleable and can bend if enough force is applied. For a laid-back small dog that does not rattle the bars, this crate provides a reliable sleeping and training space.
Assembly takes under two minutes with no tools needed. The color on the pan appears as an ice blue rather than the vibrant blue shown in product photos. The crate includes a top handle for portability, and it folds flat for storage. It is an entry-level solution that fits the budget without introducing major safety compromise for calm, small breeds.
Why it’s great
- Very low weight at 5 pounds for easy transport
- Simple foldable design with top handle
- Washable black pan is easy to clean
Good to know
- Plastic tray sits loosely and can shift under the frame
- Metal wire is malleable and can bend under strong force
7. Amazon Basics Portable Foldable Metal Wire Small Dog Crate
The Amazon Basics crate offers a 24 x 18 x 20-inch interior with a divider panel for adjusting the living space as a puppy grows. The wire construction feels sturdy at 13.9 pounds, and the 15-millimeter bar gap is narrow enough to prevent a small dog’s nose or paw from slipping through. A single door with a manual locking mechanism keeps the dog contained, and the door latch includes a protective hook at the bottom of the crate that locks the plastic tray in place so it cannot slide out.
Setup is straightforward — the crate pops into shape in under a minute and folds flat just as quickly. The tray is removable and washable, and the top handle makes one-handed carrying possible. The divider panel clips securely into the sides, creating a smaller den that helps with housebreaking. The metal hook that secures the tray must be locked each time after cleaning, and a few owners have missed this step, resulting in the tray coming loose during transport.
The 15mm gap is smaller than many competing models, a meaningful safety detail for tiny breeds. The wire is not reinforced with extra cross-bracing like the LifeStages, but for a standard small breed like a Havanese or a French Bulldog, the strength is adequate. This crate is a no-frills option that gets the basics right while keeping the cost accessible.
Why it’s great
- 15mm bar gap prevents small paws from slipping through
- Divider panel included for puppy training
- Easy pop-up assembly and flat folding for storage
Good to know
- Tray hook must be locked manually after every cleaning
- Single door limits placement options compared to double-door models
FAQ
What size wire gap is safe for a small dog under 10 pounds?
Can a soft-sided crate replace a wire crate for overnight containment?
How do I measure my small dog for a crate that fits long-term?
Why do some crates have double doors and is it worth it for a small dog?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most users, the crates for small dogs winner is the MidWest LifeStages 24-Inch because the heavier-gauge wire, included divider panel, and double doors cover every stage of a small dog’s life without requiring a second purchase. If you want a portable den for travel and home, grab the EliteField Soft Crate. And for a budget-friendly double-door option that still uses secure latches, nothing beats the MidWest New World.
Mo Maruf
I created WellFizz to bridge the gap between vague wellness advice and actionable solutions. My mission is simple: to decode the research and give you practical tools you can actually use.
Beyond the data, I am a passionate traveler. I believe that stepping away from the screen to explore new environments is essential for mental clarity and physical vitality.