10 Best Collapsible Dog Crates in 2026
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The MidWest iCrate Folding Dog Crate is the best overall collapsible dog crate because it combines durable wire construction with a useful divider panel for growing puppies. For travelers who need something lighter, the Amazon Basics Portable Soft Dog Crate is our best lightweight travel pick. And if you have an extra-large breed, the FDW Foldable Metal Dog Crate offers the most durable construction.
The challenge with collapsible dog crates is balancing portability with security. A crate that folds flat for storage might not hold a determined chewer, while a sturdy wire crate can be heavy to carry. You need to match the crate’s material and design to your dog’s size, temperament, and your primary use case.
This guide is research-based, drawing from manufacturer specifications, expert round-ups, and patterns in owner feedback. We evaluated ten crates across wire, soft-sided, and pop-up designs to help you choose with confidence.
Top 10 Collapsible Dog Crates in the Market
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The Best Collapsible Dog Crates, Reviewed
MidWest iCrate Folding Dog Crate
What We Like
- Divider panel for growing puppies
- Leak-proof tray and rubber feet
- Tool-free assembly and carry handle
- Paw Block latches prevent escapes
Trade-offs
- Single door limits placement options
- At 22 lb, less portable than soft crates
- 36-inch size tight for dogs near 70 lb
The divider panel lets this crate grow from a puppy kennel to a full-size home for dogs up to 70 pounds, so you only buy one crate as your dog matures. Precision welding, rounded corner clips, and slide-bolt latches with Paw Block help prevent snags and escapes, while the leak-proof tray and rubber feet keep floors clean and the crate steady. The metal wire design with a protective black e-coat finish resists rust and everyday wear, and the large openings with low thresholds ease crate training.
The trade-off is weight: at 22 pounds, this is heavier than soft-sided options like the EliteField 3-Door Soft Dog Crate, so it’s less convenient for frequent travel or carrying up stairs. For dogs near 70 pounds, MidWest suggests sizing up to their 42-inch model so the dog has plenty of room to get comfortable. For a permanent or semi-portable home crate with rigorous safety testing and a family-owned company behind it, the iCrate delivers durable basics without extra frills.
Product photos

FDW Foldable Metal Dog Crate
What We Like
- Rust-resistant metal wire construction
- Double doors for flexible placement
- Leak-proof plastic tray for easy cleanup
- Divider panel for adjusting space
Trade-offs
- 48-inch size limits use to XL breeds only
- Heavier than soft-sided crates for travel
- No wheels for moving when assembled
A 48-inch long crate built from rust-resistant metal wire means this thing is meant for the big dogs, the ones that test every latch and chew through flimsy panels. The double doors give you options when you’re squeezing it into a corner or dealing with a dog who refuses to use the front entrance. With a full-length leak-proof tray and a divider panel, it’s set up for training a growing puppy or housing an adult XL breed without worrying about the crate falling apart.
This crate is big and heavy, so it’s not the one you toss in the backseat for a weekend trip. The FDW is built for dogs that need serious space and a frame that won’t buckle, while the MidWest iCrate is designed for medium-large breeds up to 70 pounds. If your dog is under 70 pounds or you need something you can carry one-handed, look at the Amazon Basics soft crate instead. But for a heavy-duty home base that stays put, this is the crate that handles the chaos.
Product photos

DUMOS 36 Inch Foldable Dog Crate
What We Like
- Rounded corners eliminate sharp edges
- Double doors with heavy-duty sliding bolt latches
- Deep-lip plastic tray prevents overflow
- Folds flat under 3 inches thick
Trade-offs
- No wheels for rolling when assembled
- Assembled crate lacks wheels for easy mobility
The rounded corners on this crate are the kind of detail that makes you wonder why every crate doesn’t have them. Sharp edges are the fastest way to turn a kennel into a hazard for both your dog and your floors, and DUMOS addressed that directly. The double-door design gives you front and side access, which is handy for tight corners or when you want the crate against a wall without blocking entry. The included divider lets you adjust the internal living area as your pet grows, so you can customize the space for training. For anyone who prioritizes safety over flashy extras, this is the straightforward choice.
The trade-off for that safe design is a lack of wheels, which means if you need to move the crate while it’s assembled, you’re picking it up. At 36 inches long, this crate fits small to medium dogs best, so owners of larger breeds will need to look at a bigger option like the FDW 48-inch model. The plastic tray has a deep lip to catch spills, which is a solid feature for accidents during travel or training. If you’re okay with carrying the crate when it’s folded flat under three inches, and your dog fits the size range, this crate delivers on the safety promise without unnecessary complexity.
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Amazon Basics Portable Soft Dog Crate
What We Like
- Sets up in seconds, no tools needed
- Double doors for easy loading
- Weighs only 10.5 pounds
- Folds flat for compact storage
Trade-offs
- Soft sides offer less security than wire crates
- No tray or divider for messy dogs
At 10.5 pounds, this crate is lighter than the MidWest iCrate (22.0 pounds) and many other full-size options, making it a practical choice for anyone who needs to carry a crate frequently. The steel frame pops open in seconds with no assembly, and the two doors (top and front) give you flexible access for loading a dog or reaching in to offer a treat. The soft-sided design and fold-flat storage suit travel and occasional use.
Soft-sided crates trade durability for weight savings. Owners report that this model won’t survive a determined chewer or a dog that leans hard into the walls, and there’s no removable tray for easy cleanup after accidents. For home training or heavy-duty use, the FDW Foldable Metal Dog Crate offers a sturdier wire build with a leak-proof tray. But at 10.5 pounds, this crate is light enough to carry with one hand, so it’s a practical choice for travel.
Product photos

ZOMISIA Collapsible Dog Crate with Wheels
What We Like
- Folds flat for space-saving storage
- Two wheels and handles for easy moving
- No-tool setup and fold-down in seconds
- Squeeze-latch locks resist clever dogs
Trade-offs
- 28-inch length fits small to medium dogs only
- No divider panel for growing puppies
Two wheels and sturdy side handles mean you can roll this crate from the living room to the car trunk without lifting the full weight. That’s a real advantage if your dog is heavy or you’re rearranging furniture. The 28-inch length is best for small to medium breeds; it fits neatly in most SUV trunks and folds flat when not needed, which suits apartment dwellers or anyone who hates tripping over a bulky kennel. The no-tool assembly is genuinely quick: pop it open, lock the sides, and you’re done.
Size is the trade-off here. At 28 inches long, this crate won’t work for a Labrador or Golden Retriever, so larger-dog owners should look at the MidWest iCrate 36-inch instead. The reinforced plastic base and metal wire construction feel solid, but the hard plastic bottom can slide on smooth floors unless you put a rug under it. If you own a small to medium breed and value being able to roll the crate rather than carry it, this is a practical, no-fuss option.
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EliteField 3-Door Soft Dog Crate
What We Like
- Three mesh doors for access and airflow
- Includes fleece bed and carrying bag
- Folds to 3 inches for storage
Trade-offs
- Soft fabric won't hold a determined chewer
- At 13 pounds, heavier than some soft crates
The EliteField is 2 inches wider and 4 inches taller than most other 36-inch soft crates, so a large breed like a Labrador has room to stand and turn around without feeling cramped. Three mesh doors on the top, front, and side let you reach in from wherever you’re standing, which makes it easy to coax a shy dog inside or just drop in a treat. The steel frame and 600D fabric hold up well for a soft-sided crate, and the included fleece bed and padded carrying bag mean you’re ready to travel as soon as it arrives.
Soft-sided crates aren’t chew-proof, and the zipper locks on the front and side doors help, but a determined chewer can still find a weak point. The EliteField is lighter than the 22-pound MidWest iCrate wire crate, weighing 13 pounds, and it folds to just 3 inches high, making it far easier to carry and store. It’s best for dogs that are calm and well-behaved indoors, not for those that treat fabric as a chew toy.
Beatrice Home Fashions Pop Up Kennel
What We Like
- Pops up and folds flat in seconds
- Weighs only 1.2 pounds for easy carrying
- Includes storage pouch for backpack or luggage
- Mesh windows provide ventilation and visibility
Trade-offs
- Soft sides offer less security than wire crates
- 32.5-inch length limits use to small or medium dogs
- No divider panel for growing puppies
Weighing only 1.2 pounds and folding flat to an 11-inch round shape, this crate is designed for travel where portability is key. The pop-up design allows quick setup and takedown, making it convenient for camping, hiking, or indoor use. Mesh windows provide ventilation and visibility, helping keep pets comfortable during trips.
Soft-sided crates like this one are not chew-proof or escape-proof, so they are best for supervised use rather than as a permanent home crate. The Beatrice is lighter and more compact than the 22-pound MidWest iCrate wire crate, which has a larger folded footprint, but it lacks the structural rigidity of a wire crate. This makes it a travel-friendly option rather than a training or long-term containment solution.
Product photos

Garnpet 4-Door Soft Dog Crate
What We Like
- Lightweight at 12.9 pounds
- Four mesh doors for ventilation and access
- Waterproof Oxford fabric is easy to wipe clean
Trade-offs
- Soft sides won't hold up to determined chewers
- Not suitable for dogs that can push through mesh windows.
At just 12.9 pounds, this crate is genuinely easy to lift with one hand and carry from the car to the campsite or from room to room. The four mesh doors mean you can set it up with an entry on any side. That’s handy when you’re squeezing it into a tight corner of a hotel room or a friend’s living room. The waterproof Oxford fabric wipes down fast after muddy paws or accidents, so it stays presentable without a deep clean. That combination of light weight, multiple access points, and easy maintenance makes it a natural fit for owners who travel often with a well-behaved dog or need a secondary crate they can stash in a closet between uses.
Soft-sided crates trade security for portability. A dog that leans hard on the mesh or tries to paw through the zipper will eventually find a way out, and the steel frame, while sturdy enough for calm dogs, won’t handle the abuse a wire crate like the MidWest iCrate can take. If your dog is a confirmed escape artist or a chewer, this isn’t the crate for unsupervised time. But for a calm adult dog who just needs a familiar den on the road, the Garnpet is a lightweight soft crate at this footprint and a sensible choice for travel-focused owners.
Gardner Pet Travel Dog Crate with Wheels
What We Like
- Tool-free folding in seconds
- Squeeze-latch prevents accidental escapes
- Collapses flat with side buckles
- Wheels and handles for easy transport
Trade-offs
- Only one door limits placement options
- No divider panel for growing puppies
A squeeze latch and a fold that takes no tools mean you can go from flat storage to a ready crate quickly. The Gardner Pet Travel Dog Crate with Wheels uses a polyethylene body and metal wire door to create a lightweight enclosure for small to medium dogs. Two smooth wheels and top handles let you pull or carry it across a campground or garage floor. This crate offers a safe space for your dog without needing to assemble hardware.
The Gardner Pet Travel Dog Crate with Wheels sets up without tools in seconds, but it has a single door and no divider panel. So it works best for a dog that already fits its 36-inch length. The MidWest iCrate Folding Dog Crate does include a divider panel for adjusting space as a puppy grows, though both are single-door models. This crate’s plastic-and-metal build makes it lighter than an all-metal kennel, which is a fair trade for quick trips and everyday convenience.
Product photos

XVISHX Foldable Soft Dog Crate
What We Like
- Weighs only 5.0 pounds for easy carrying
- Thickened steel frame and 620D Oxford fabric
- Breathable mesh on all sides and top
Trade-offs
- Soft fabric sides offer less security than wire crates
- No divider panel for adjusting interior space
At just five pounds, this crate is light enough for one person to carry easily, and it folds flat for storage. The fabric body with a steel frame and 620D Oxford cloth gives it a sturdy feel for a soft crate, while the leather-wrapped corners add extra protection against wear. For anyone who needs a portable crate for home or travel, this design keeps the weight low without giving up interior space.
Soft-sided crates have limits: they won’t stop a determined chewer the way a metal crate might, and the mesh panels are not chew-proof. If your dog is calm and doesn’t try to escape, this crate offers a roomy, breathable space that sets up in seconds. It is a practical choice for owners who value easy setup and light weight over the heavy-duty security of a wire cage.
Product photos

How We Evaluated Collapsible Dog Crates
Our evaluation began with a close look at the specifications and manufacturer documentation for each crate. We then cross-referenced those details with patterns found in owner feedback from a range of sources, focusing on what real users reported about durability, ease of setup, and daily use.
We prioritized four criteria above all others. Portability mattered most for travel-focused crates: we looked at weight, fold-flat dimensions, and whether the crate included a carrying handle or bag. Security was critical for wire and heavy-duty crates, where we evaluated latch designs and the risk of sharp edges. Versatility came into play with features like divider panels for growing puppies and double doors for flexible placement. Finally, ease of cleaning separated the crates that would stay pleasant to own from those that would become a chore.
An evaluation has honest limits. We rely on what owners consistently report. A crate that works perfectly for a calm Labrador may fail for a determined escape artist. We flag those trade-offs clearly in each review.
What To Look For In Collapsible Dog Crates
Choosing the right collapsible crate means matching the design to your dog’s habits and your daily routine. The right choice saves you money and frustration.
Focus on material (wire vs. Soft fabric), weight, latch security, and whether the crate includes a divider panel. These four factors determine if the crate will be safe, portable, and long-lasting for your dog.
Material: Wire vs. Soft-Sided
Wire crates like the MidWest iCrate offer the best security and durability. They resist chewing, provide excellent ventilation, and include a leak-proof tray for easy cleanup. The trade-off is weight, a 36-inch wire crate weighs around 22 pounds. Soft-sided crates are much lighter, with the Amazon Basics model weighing just 10.5 pounds, but they will not contain a determined chewer. Pop-up designs are the lightest option, but they offer the least security.
Latch Design and Security
A crate is only as good as its latch. The MidWest iCrate uses Paw Block latches that prevent dogs from sliding the door open from inside. The DUMOS 36 Inch Foldable Dog Crate uses heavy-duty sliding bolt latches on double doors for extra security. On soft crates, look for zippers that can be secured with a small padlock if your dog is clever with their paws.
Portability and Setup
If you plan to move the crate between rooms or take it on trips, weight and setup time matter. The best folding crates for travel fold flat in seconds. The ZOMISIA Collapsible Dog Crate with Wheels adds two wheels and handles so you can roll it while assembled. For car travel, a crate that collapses flat without tools is ideal. For more on this, see our guide to crates for car travel.
- Measure your dog’s height and length while standing, then add 4 inches to each dimension.
- Check the folded thickness, anything over 4 inches may be hard to store under a bed or in a car trunk.
- Look for rounded corners on wire crates to prevent snags on clothing or injuries to your dog.
- Verify the tray is removable and leak-proof for easy cleaning.
A crate that is too large for your dog can actually make house training harder, while one that is too small is uncomfortable.
Collapsible Dog Crates Compared
The table below compares all ten collapsible dog crates across key features, including material, weight, and special design elements.
| Product | Material | Dimensions | Door Count |
|---|---|---|---|
| MidWest iCrate Folding Dog Crate | Steel wire, e-coat finish | 36.5 x 23.25 x 24.75 in | 1 |
| FDW Foldable Metal Dog Crate | Rust-resistant metal wire | 48 x 29 x 31 in | Double (front + side) |
| DUMOS 36 Inch Foldable Dog Crate | Metal wire, plastic tray | 36.6 x 22.6 x 24.2 in | Double (front + side) |
| Amazon Basics Portable Soft Dog Crate | Polyester fabric, steel frame | 42" x 31" x 31" | 2 (top and front) |
| ZOMISIA Collapsible Dog Crate with Wheels | Reinforced plastic & metal wire | 27.9 x 18.9 x 21.6 in | N/A |
| EliteField 3-Door Soft Dog Crate | 600D fabric and hex mesh | 36 x 24 x 28 inches | 3 mesh doors (top, front, side) |
| Beatrice Home Fashions Pop Up Kennel | Soft-sided with mesh screen windows | 32.5" L x 19.5" W x 19.5" H | N/A |
| Garnpet 4-Door Soft Dog Crate | Waterproof Oxford fabric | 36 x 25 x 25 inches | 4 doors with mesh windows |
| Gardner Pet Travel Dog Crate with Wheels | Polyethylene / metal wire door | 25.8 x 22.8 x 36.2 in | Squeeze-latch single door |
| XVISHX Foldable Soft Dog Crate | 620D Oxford cloth, steel frame | 36 x 25 x 25 inches | 2 doors |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best collapsible dog crate for a large breed?
The FDW Foldable Metal Dog Crate is the best choice for extra-large breeds. Its rust-resistant metal wire construction and 48-inch size provide a sturdy, long-lasting home. The MidWest iCrate is also a strong option for medium-to-large dogs up to about 70 pounds, thanks to its included divider panel.
How do I choose between a wire crate and a soft crate?
Choose a wire crate if your dog is a chewer, an escape artist, or still being house trained. Wire crates offer better security, ventilation, and a leak-proof tray. Choose a soft crate if you travel frequently with a calm, well-behaved dog and need something lightweight that folds flat. See our guide on choosing a dog crate for more detail.
What size collapsible crate do I need for my dog?
Measure your dog from nose to tail and from the floor to the top of their head while standing. Add 4 inches to both measurements. A 36-inch crate suits most medium breeds, while a 48-inch crate fits extra-large dogs. Puppy owners should look for a crate with a divider panel, like the MidWest iCrate.
Are collapsible dog crates safe for car travel?
Some are, but not all. Portable travel crates made of soft fabric are not crash-tested and should only be used for short trips. For car travel, a wire crate that is secured with a tie-down is generally safer. Hard-sided plastic crates that meet airline standards offer the most protection in a vehicle.
How do I clean a collapsible dog crate?
Wire crates with a removable, leak-proof plastic tray are the easiest to clean, simply slide out the tray, wash it with soap and water, and dry it. Soft crates with waterproof Oxford fabric can be wiped down with a damp cloth. Some soft crates have removable, machine-washable covers, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions.
The Bottom Line
The MidWest iCrate Folding Dog Crate is the best overall pick for most owners. It offers the durability of a wire crate, the convenience of tool-free assembly, and a divider panel that grows with your puppy. If you have an extra-large breed, the FDW Foldable Metal Dog Crate provides the strongest construction. For frequent travelers with a calm dog, the Amazon Basics Portable Soft Dog Crate is the lightest and fastest to set up.
Budget-minded buyers should consider the Gardner Pet Travel Dog Crate with Wheels, which offers tool-free folding and easy rolling at an affordable price point. And if you need a crate with no sharp edges for a sensitive dog, the DUMOS 36 Inch Foldable Dog Crate delivers on safety with rounded corners and heavy-duty latches.
The single most important factor in choosing a collapsible crate is matching the material to your dog’s behavior. A wire crate for a chewer or an escape artist, a soft crate for a calm traveler, and a pop-up for temporary use, get that right, and everything else falls into place.


