The best best dog kennel for puppies is the Midwest 24-Inch Single Door iCrate, the only one here that combines a trusted brand, a built-in divider panel for growing pups, and a leak-proof tray that makes cleanup simple. It is the pick for anyone who wants a crate that lasts from puppyhood through adulthood for small breeds.
Want a more budget-friendly option instead? The DUMOS 24 Inch Dog Crate gets you there, as long as you don't need the divider panel or the Midwest brand track record.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
This guide tells you exactly which crate fits your puppy's size, your home, and your training goals. Some buyers should actually skip this category entirely, and we will tell you who.
Everything below comes from current Amazon product data, specs, and each product's owner track record, not hands-on lab testing.
Quick Answer: The Best Dog Kennel for Puppies
The best best dog kennel for puppies overall is the Midwest 24-Inch Single Door iCrate for its proven build, divider panel, and trusted reputation among small breed owners.
Thinking about a full-size dog or a furniture-style crate instead? Jump to Who Should NOT Buy below before you spend anything.
Comparison Table
Here is the lineup at a glance: photo, product, who it is built for, and our /10 score.
Scroll sideways on small screens to see every column.
Midwest 24-Inch Single Door iCrate: Best Overall for Small Breed Puppies
#1
MidwestDivider panel included
9.2OUT OF 10
Build Quality9.3
Ease of Use9.0
Safety & Security9.2
Owner Satisfaction9.3
This is the crate that keeps coming up in owner conversations as the one that just works for small breed puppies. The 24-inch size fits dogs 12 to 20 pounds, and the included divider panel is the real star here. You start with a smaller space for potty training, then slide the panel back as your puppy grows. The American Kennel Club recommends this approach for crate training, and Midwest makes it easy with a simple slide-panel design.
The single door has a secure latch that owners report stays closed even with persistent chewers. Assembly takes about two minutes with no tools required, and the whole thing folds flat for storage or travel. The leak-proof plastic tray slides out from the front for quick cleaning, which is a lifesaver during the potty training phase.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. Some owners note the wire is not as thick as heavy-duty outdoor kennels, so a determined chewer could bend it over time. The single door also means you need to plan your placement carefully since you cannot open from both sides.
⚠Sizing: Measure your puppy’s length from nose to tail and add 2 to 4 inches. The 24-inch length works best for breeds like Shih Tzus, French Bulldogs, and small terriers.
Pros
- ✓Built-in divider panel lets you adjust space as puppy grows
- ✓Folds flat in seconds for storage or travel
- ✓Leak-proof tray prevents accidents from ruining floors
- ✓Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars across thousands of verified purchases
Cons
- ✕Single door limits placement options in tight rooms
- ✕Wire gauge is moderate, not ideal for strong chewers
- ✕Only rated for dogs up to 20 pounds, no room to grow beyond small breeds
Dimensions
24 x 18 x 19 in
Special Feature
Divider panel
Best for: Owners of small breed puppies who want a crate with a proven track record and a divider panel that supports proper crate training from day one.
DUMOS 24 Inch Dog Crate: Best Budget-Friendly Starter
#2
DUMOSFoldable & budget-friendly
8.6OUT OF 10
Build Quality8.4
Ease of Use8.8
Safety & Security8.5
Owner Satisfaction8.7
This is the crate that gives you the essentials without the premium price tag. The DUMOS 24 Inch Dog Crate folds flat in seconds, comes with a leak-proof plastic pan, and offers a single-door design that is straightforward to set up. It is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars, and owners consistently mention the value proposition as the main reason they chose it over pricier options.
The wire frame is sturdy enough for everyday home use, and the foldable design means you can take it to the vet, on a road trip, or to a family visit without hassle. The plastic tray snaps into place securely and wipes clean with a damp cloth, which is exactly what you need during the early potty training weeks.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The DUMOS does not include a divider panel, so you cannot adjust the interior space as your puppy grows. Some owners also report the latch feels less premium than the Midwest, though it holds fine for most small breeds.
⚠Care: The plastic tray can develop surface scratches over time if you use abrasive scrubbers. Stick to a soft sponge and mild soap for cleaning.
Pros
- ✓Folds flat for easy storage and travel
- ✓Leak-proof plastic tray simplifies cleanup
- ✓Good value for the price compared to similar wire crates
- ✓Lightweight enough to carry with one hand
Cons
- ✕No divider panel included for growing puppies
- ✕Latch feels less substantial than premium brands
- ✕Single door reduces flexibility in room placement
Dimensions
24 x 18 x 19 in
Special Feature
Foldable design
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who want a functional, foldable crate for a small puppy and are comfortable buying a crate without a divider panel.
Carlson Pink Secure Compact Single Door: Best for Toy Breeds & Style
#3
CarlsonCompact & pink finish
9.0OUT OF 10
Build Quality9.0
Ease of Use9.2
Safety & Security8.8
Owner Satisfaction9.0
This is the crate that proves you do not have to sacrifice style for function. The Carlson Pink Secure Compact Single Door is a smaller crate designed for toy breeds like Chihuahuas, Yorkies, and Maltese. It carries a 4.7 out of 5 star rating, and the pink powder-coated finish is a fun departure from the usual black or silver wire crates. The compact dimensions make it a natural fit for apartments or small bedrooms.
The secure latch system uses a slide-bolt design that owners report stays locked even when a puppy bumps against the door. The crate folds flat for travel, and the plastic pan is removable for cleaning. At this size, the whole crate weighs very little, so you can easily move it from room to room as you follow your puppy around during the day.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. This is a small crate for very small dogs. If your puppy is a breed that will reach 15 pounds or more as an adult, this crate will be too small within a few months. The pink color also limits the finish options if you prefer a more neutral look.
If you need a similar compact size but in a neutral finish, the
DUMOS 24 Inch Dog Crate above offers a classic black wire look at a similar size and price point.
⚠Sizing: This crate suits toy breeds best. Before ordering, confirm your puppy’s expected adult size fits the compact footprint with room to stand and turn around.
Pros
- ✓Compact footprint fits easily in small bedrooms and apartments
- ✓Secure slide-bolt latch keeps the door closed
- ✓Pink powder-coated finish is durable and fun
- ✓Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by verified buyers
Cons
- ✕Only suitable for toy breeds under 15 pounds
- ✕Pink finish limits neutral decor matching
- ✕No divider panel for staged crate training
Best for: Owners of toy breed puppies who want a compact, secure, and stylish crate that fits into a small living space.
DONORO Dog Crates Small Size Dogs: Best Double Door Access
#4
DONORODouble door & collapsible
8.8OUT OF 10
Build Quality8.7
Ease of Use8.9
Safety & Security8.6
Owner Satisfaction8.9
This is the crate that solves the placement puzzle with front and side doors that both open wide. The DONORO gives you two entry points in a 24 by 18 by 20 inch frame, rated for small dogs and cats. Owners rate it 4.6 out of 5 stars, with the brown contour design getting repeated compliments for looking less industrial than standard black wire.
The double doors are a practical training tool. One can face your bed at night, and the other opens into the room during daytime hangouts. The collapsible metal frame folds flat without tools, and the removable plastic tray wipes clean quickly when accidents happen.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The brown finish can show scratches when the crate is folded and unfolded often. The general crate training guidance around staged sizing also applies here, since no divider panel is included.
⚠Placement: The side door needs roughly 18 inches of clearance to swing fully open. Measure your intended corner before you assemble it there.
Pros
- ✓Double doors offer flexible placement in any room
- ✓Brown contour design blends better with home decor
- ✓Folds flat without tools in under a minute
- ✓Suitable for small dogs and cats
Cons
- ✕No divider panel for staged crate training
- ✕Brown paint can chip with frequent folding
- ✕Narrower interior than boxier crates of the same length
Dimensions
24 x 18 x 20 in
Material
Collapsible metal
Best for: Owners who want the flexibility of two entry points and a crate that looks more like furniture than standard wire mesh.
FDW 24″ Foldable Metal Dog Crate: Best for Travel & Portability
#5
FDWHeavy-duty, double door
8.4OUT OF 10
Build Quality8.6
Ease of Use8.3
Safety & Security8.4
Owner Satisfaction8.3
This is the crate for owners who treat the car as a second living room for their dog. The FDW 24″ Foldable Metal Dog Crate is described by the manufacturer as heavy-duty, and it combines double doors with a divider panel and a leak-proof tray. That is a rare feature combination at its price point. Verified buyers rate it 4.4 out of 5 stars.
The divider panel lets you shrink the floor space for a young puppy, then expand it as they grow. The double doors give you placement flexibility at home, and the foldable design drops flat so it can ride in a trunk without hogging space. The leak-proof tray handles the inevitable car trip accidents.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The heavier gauge wire makes this crate weigh more than the DUMOS or DONORO, so it is less convenient for carrying long distances. Several owner reviews also mention that the door latch takes two hands to close smoothly when it is brand new.
⚠Compatibility: The 24-inch length targets dogs around 12 to 20 pounds. Confirm your puppy’s expected adult size before you order so you do not outgrow it within months.
Pros
- ✓Divider panel lets the crate grow with your puppy
- ✓Double doors for flexible placement and access
- ✓Heavy-duty wire construction per manufacturer specs
- ✓Leak-proof tray simplifies car and home cleanup
Cons
- ✕Heavier than other foldable crates in its class
- ✕Door latch can be stiff when new
- ✕No carrying handle included
Special Feature
Divider + tray
Best for: Owners who want a feature-rich foldable crate with both a divider panel and double doors for home, car, and travel use.
FXW Rollick Dog Playpen: Best Playpen for Active Puppies
#6
FXW8 configurable panels
8.2OUT OF 10
Build Quality8.5
Ease of Use8.7
Safety & Security7.9
Owner Satisfaction8.4
This is not a crate at all, and that is exactly the point. The FXW Rollick Dog Playpen is an 8-panel enclosure that gives a puppy room to move, play, and nap while staying in a safe zone. It is patented, rated 4.6 out of 5 stars, and designed for indoor rooms, yards, and RV camping setups.
The panels stand 24 inches high and can be arranged as a square, rectangle, hexagon, or even a straight room divider. The walk-through gate makes it easy to step in and out without climbing over panels or moving the whole structure. Setup requires no tools, which owners mention as a welcome change from other enclosures.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The open top means a determined jumper can clear the 24-inch walls, so this is not a solution for unsupervised containment. There is also no integrated cover, so it does not replace a crate for overnight sleeping or travel.
⚠Safety: Use this playpen for supervised time only. Puppies that climb or jump can clear a 24-inch panel, so pair it with a covered crate for overnight confinement.
Pros
- ✓Eight panels allow square, hexagon, or room divider layouts
- ✓Walk-through gate makes human access easy
- ✓Works indoors, outdoors, and for RV camping
- ✓Sets up without tools in a few minutes
Cons
- ✕Open top means climbing puppies can escape
- ✕No roof or cover option included
- ✕Not a full replacement for crate training
Use Case
Indoor / yard / RV
Best for: Puppy owners who want a flexible, portable play space for supervised daytime activity rather than a covered sleeping crate.
ZOMISIA 28″ L Collapsible Dog Crate: Best for Mobility & Easy Setup
ZOMISIAWheels & no-tool setup
8.7OUT OF 10
Build Quality8.8
Ease of Use9.1
Safety & Security8.5
Owner Satisfaction8.6
This is the crate that rolls where you need it, which is a game changer for anyone who rearranges rooms often. The ZOMISIA 28″ L Collapsible Dog Crate is a heavy-duty metal kennel that folds flat without tools and includes two built-in wheels on one side. You tilt and roll it like a piece of luggage. Owners rate it 4.6 out of 5 stars, and the 28-inch length gives a bit more room than the 24-inch models above, making it a better fit for a small spaniel or a stocky French Bulldog that needs extra width.
The four-sided steel frame is noticeably sturdier than the lightweight wire crates in this lineup. The no-tool folding mechanism is simple: you lift the floor panel and the sides collapse inward. The removable tray catches spills and slides out for cleaning.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The wheels are not lockable, so the crate can roll slightly on a smooth floor when the dog shifts weight. Owner reports also mention that the carrying handle is a bit small for larger hands, though the wheels compensate for the lack of a comfortable grip.
If you prefer a lighter crate without wheels for easier lifting into a car trunk, the
FDW 24″ Foldable Metal Dog Crate above offers a similar heavy-duty build in a more traditional carry design.
⚠Mobility: The wheels work best on hard floors. On thick carpet or grass, you may need to lift the crate instead of rolling it.
Pros
- ✓Built-in wheels let you tilt and roll the crate
- ✓No-tool assembly folds flat in seconds
- ✓28-inch length offers more interior space than 24-inch models
- ✓Heavy-duty four-sided steel frame
Cons
- ✕Wheels lack locking mechanisms, can roll on smooth floors
- ✕Carrying handle is small for larger hands
- ✕No divider panel included for staged training
Dimensions
28 x 20 x 21 in
Best for: Owners who move their crate between rooms or homes frequently and want a heavy-duty option that rolls instead of requiring a lift.
Buying Guide: Size, Features, and Your Puppy's Needs
Choosing the right crate for a puppy comes down to a few key decisions. Here is what matters most.
What size does my puppy need?
A crate should be big enough for your puppy to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. It should not be so large that they can use one end as a bathroom and the other as a bed. That defeats the purpose of crate training.
The 24-inch models in this guide fit dogs weighing 12 to 20 pounds. The ZOMISIA at 28 inches gives a bit more breathing room for breeds that land on the heavier side of that range. For toy breeds like a Chihuahua or a Yorkie, the Carlson Pink model is the most compact option.
Measure your puppy from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail. Add 2 to 4 inches and that is the minimum crate length you need. If you are raising a breed that will outgrow a 24-inch crate, consider buying a larger size now and using a divider panel to shrink the space until they grow.
Single door or double door?
Single door crates like the Midwest and DUMOS are simpler and often lighter. They are fine if you plan to keep the crate in one spot with the door facing into the room.
Double door crates like the DONORO and FDW give you more placement options. You can put the crate in a corner and still access it from the side. This is especially useful if the crate sits next to a wall or in a tight hallway.
Divider panels and crate training
A divider panel is a metal wall that slides into the crate to create a smaller space. You start with the small space to encourage your puppy to hold their bladder, then move the divider back as they grow.
The Midwest and FDW both include divider panels. The other models in this list do not. If you plan to follow a staged crate training program, a divider panel is a strong advantage.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) recommends this approach, and the Midwest is one of the most popular crates for that reason.
Portability and storage
If you travel with your dog or need to store the crate when it is not in use, look for a foldable design. Every crate here folds flat, but the ZOMISIA is the easiest to move around thanks to its wheels. The FDW is heavier but includes a divider panel.
The DUMOS is the lightest and most budget-friendly option for occasional travel.
Playpen vs. crate
The FXW Rollick is a playpen, not a crate. It gives your puppy more space to move during supervised playtime, but it is not a replacement for a covered crate. Most owners use both a playpen for daytime activity and a crate for overnight sleeping and travel.
To see how these factors play out on real picks, compare the Midwest 24-Inch Single Door iCrate, DUMOS 24 Inch Dog Crate and the Carlson Pink Secure Compact Single Door reviewed above.
Who Should NOT Buy a Dog Kennel for Puppies
A standard wire crate is the wrong purchase for some buyers. Here is who should skip this category.
You need a furniture-style crate
If you want the crate to double as a nightstand or side table, the wire models in this guide will not fit your decor. Furniture-style crates are made from wood or heavy-duty plastic and look like cabinets. They are heavier and more expensive, but they blend into a living room.
Look at brands that make end table crates or console crates if aesthetics are your top priority.
You have a large breed puppy that will exceed 50 pounds
The crates in this guide are sized for small breeds. A Labrador, Golden Retriever, or German Shepherd puppy will outgrow a 24-inch crate within weeks. Even the 28-inch ZOMISIA is too small for a medium or large breed adult.
For larger dogs, look at crates in the 36-inch to 48-inch range. Many of the same brands offer larger sizes with the same features.
You need a crate for an adult dog that is already house trained
If you are adopting an adult dog that is already reliable with potty training, you might not need a divider panel or a small starter crate. You can jump straight to a crate that fits their full adult size. The guidance in this article is focused on puppy needs, so adult dog owners should prioritize different features like durability and ease of cleaning.
Final Verdict
The best best dog kennel for puppies is the Midwest 24-Inch Single Door iCrate. It offers the proven build quality, the included divider panel for staged crate training, and the leak-proof tray that makes cleanup simple. Owner reviews consistently rate it above 4.7 stars, and it is the crate that trainers and experienced owners recommend most often.
Want a budget-friendly alternative? The DUMOS 24 Inch Dog Crate gives you a functional foldable crate at a great value. It lacks the divider panel, but it is a solid choice if you are comfortable managing the space yourself.
Need a double door for flexible placement? The DONORO Dog Crates Small Size Dogs offers front and side access in a brown finish that looks more like furniture. The FDW 24" Foldable Metal Dog Crate combines both a divider panel and double doors for the most feature-rich option in the 24-inch size.
If you are still unsure whether a crate is the right tool for your situation, scroll back up to the Who Should NOT Buy section. It will save you time and money if you actually need a different type of enclosure.
FAQ
What is the best dog kennel for puppies overall?
The Midwest 24-Inch Single Door iCrate is the best overall pick. It has a built-in divider panel for space adjustment, a leak-proof tray, a secure latch, and a 4.7 out of 5 star rating from thousands of verified buyers.
What size crate does my puppy need?
Measure your puppy from nose to tail and add 2 to 4 inches. For breeds that will weigh 12 to 20 pounds as adults, a 24-inch crate is the right fit. For toy breeds under 10 pounds, a smaller crate like the Carlson Pink model works better.
Should I get a crate with a divider panel?
Yes, if you are crate training a puppy. A divider panel lets you create a smaller space at first, which encourages your puppy to hold their bladder. You can move the panel as they grow.
The Midwest and FDW both include divider panels.
Is a playpen better than a crate for a puppy?
A playpen gives your puppy more room to move during supervised playtime, but it is not a replacement for a covered crate. Most owners use a crate for overnight sleeping and travel, and a playpen like the FXW Rollick for daytime activity.
How do I clean a wire dog crate?
The plastic tray slides out and wipes clean with a mild soap and soft sponge. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that can scratch the tray surface. For the wire frame, a damp cloth with pet-safe cleaner works well.
Can I use these crates for travel?
Yes, all the crates here fold flat for travel. The ZOMISIA includes wheels for easy rolling, and the FDW offers a heavy-duty build with a divider panel for road trips. Always secure the crate in the vehicle to prevent movement during travel.
