Want a pink option that matches your decor? The Midwest 24‑Inch Pink iCrate gives you the same reliability with a splash of color, as long as you don’t mind paying a slight premium for the finish.
This guide will help you avoid the most common mistake: buying a crate that’s too big or too small. We’ll show you exactly which size fits your dog’s weight and why some crates should be skipped entirely.
Everything below comes from current Amazon product data, specs, and each product’s owner track record, not hands‑on lab testing.
Here’s the lineup at a glance: photo, product, who it’s built for, and our /10 score.
Carlson Pink Secure Compact Single Door: Best Compact Design#4
CarlsonCompact, secure slide-bolt latch
9.0OUT OF 10
Build Quality9.1
Ease of Use9.3
Portability8.7
Owner Satisfaction9.0
The Carlson Pink is a compact, well-built crate that feels solid despite its small size. It’s designed for smaller breeds and has a very secure slide-bolt latch that owners love. The single door opens smoothly, and the black or pink finish is durable. The leak-proof tray is easy to remove for cleaning. Many owners report that it’s a great crate for a small dog who doesn’t need a lot of space.
Assembly is simple: it folds out and locks into place. The 24-inch size is a bit smaller than some other 24-inch models, so it’s a good choice for tight spaces. The wire spacing is narrow enough to prevent small paws from getting stuck.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The crate is not as tall as some other models, so a tall small breed like a Miniature Poodle may feel cramped. Also, the tray is a bit thin and can warp if left in direct sunlight. If you need a taller crate, the
DUMOS 24 Inch is a good alternative.
⚠Care: The plastic tray can warp in direct heat. Avoid placing the crate near a window or radiator.
Pros
- ✓Very secure slide-bolt latch
- ✓Compact footprint saves space
- ✓Durable powder-coated finish
- ✓Easy to assemble and fold
Cons
- ✕Shorter height than some 24-inch crates
- ✕Plastic tray can warp in heat
- ✕Single door only
Dimensions
24″L x 18″W x 19″H
Material
Steel wire, plastic tray
Best for: Owners who want a compact, secure crate for a small breed. Great for apartments or tight spaces.
FDW 24″ Foldable Metal Dog Crate: Best Double Door Value
#5
FDWDouble doors, divider, heavy-duty
8.3OUT OF 10
Build Quality8.7
Ease of Use8.5
Portability8.0
Owner Satisfaction8.2
The FDW 24-inch is a heavy-duty double-door crate that offers great value for the price. It comes with a divider panel, a leak-proof tray, and two doors for easy access. The wire is thicker than many budget crates, and the foldable design makes it easy to store. Owners who need flexibility in placement appreciate the double doors.
The crate is also suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The divider panel is handy for growing puppies, and the tray is easy to clean. The black finish is durable and resists scratches well.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. Some owners report that the door latches can be a bit stiff at first. Also, the crate is heavier than some single-door models, making it less portable. If you prioritize portability, the
DUMOS 24 Inch is a lighter option.
⚠Assembly: The door latches may need a few uses to loosen up. Apply a little lubricant if they stick.
Pros
- ✓Double doors for flexible placement
- ✓Includes divider panel for puppy training
- ✓Heavy-duty wire construction
- ✓Leak-proof tray is easy to clean
Cons
- ✕Door latches can be stiff initially
- ✕Heavier than single-door models
- ✕Some owners report minor paint chips
Dimensions
24″L x 18″W x 19″H
Material
Steel wire, plastic tray
Best for: Owners who want a double-door crate with a divider for a reasonable price. Great for homes where flexibility in placement matters.
DUMOS 24 Inch Dog Crate: Best Lightweight Travel
#6
DUMOSLightweight, single door, travel-friendly
8.1OUT OF 10
Build Quality8.0
Ease of Use8.8
Portability9.0
Owner Satisfaction8.0
The DUMOS 24-inch crate is one of the lightest options in this roundup, making it ideal for travel. It’s a single-door wire crate that folds flat for easy transport. The plastic tray is leak-proof and easy to remove. Owners who travel with their dogs appreciate how easy it is to set up and take down.
The design is simple but functional. The wire is sturdy enough for a small dog, and the single door has a secure latch. It’s also suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The lightweight build means it’s easy to carry from room to room or pack in the car.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The wire is thinner than some other models, so it won’t stand up to a heavy chewer. Also, the tray can be a bit flimsy and may crack if overloaded. If you need a sturdier crate for a determined dog, the
Midwest 24-Inch iCrate is a better choice.
⚠Care: The plastic tray is lightweight but can crack if overloaded. Avoid placing heavy items on it.
Pros
- ✓Very lightweight for easy travel
- ✓Folds flat for storage
- ✓Leak-proof tray included
- ✓Simple setup and takedown
Cons
- ✕Thinner wire than premium crates
- ✕Tray can crack under heavy use
- ✕No divider panel included
Dimensions
24″L x 18″W x 19″H
Material
Steel wire, plastic tray
Best for: Owners who travel frequently with their small dog and need a lightweight, portable crate. Also good for occasional use.
BestPet Dog Crate 18″ Black Foldable: Best for Teacup Breeds
#7
BestPetSmallest size, secure slide-bolt latch
8.5OUT OF 10
Build Quality8.3
Ease of Use9.0
Portability9.2
Owner Satisfaction8.8
The BestPet 18-inch crate is the smallest in this lineup, purpose-built for teacup breeds and tiny puppies. It’s designed for dogs under 10 lbs, like Yorkies, Chihuahuas, and Maltese. The single door has a secure slide-bolt latch, and the foldable design makes it easy to store. The leak-proof tray is simple to clean.
This crate is also great for travel, as it’s very lightweight and folds flat. The wire spacing is narrow enough to prevent tiny paws from slipping through. Owners of very small breeds often mention that this crate is the perfect size for their dog.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The 18-inch size is too small for most small breeds over 10 lbs. Also, the wire is thinner than some larger crates, so it’s not ideal for a chewer. If your dog is closer to 20 lbs, the
Midwest 24-Inch iCrate is a better fit.
⚠Sizing: This 18-inch crate is only suitable for dogs under 10 lbs. For larger small breeds, choose a 24-inch model.
Pros
- ✓Perfect size for teacup breeds
- ✓Secure slide-bolt latch
- ✓Lightweight and foldable for travel
- ✓Narrow wire spacing prevents paw injuries
Cons
- ✕Too small for dogs over 10 lbs
- ✕Thinner wire than premium crates
- ✕No divider panel included
Dimensions
18″L x 12″W x 14″H
Material
Steel wire, plastic tray
Best for: Owners of teacup breeds or very small puppies under 10 lbs. Ideal for travel and home use.
Buying Guide: Size, Security, Portability, and Budget
Choosing the right crate for your small breed dog is about more than just picking a color. Let’s walk through the four key factors that matter most.
How to Choose the Right Crate Size
A crate that’s too big can hinder house training. A crate that’s too small will be uncomfortable. The general rule is that your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
For small breeds under 10 lbs, an 18-inch crate like the BestPet 18” is ideal. For dogs 12, 20 lbs, a 24-inch crate is the standard. The Midwest 24-Inch iCrate includes a divider panel, which is a huge help for growing puppies.
You can start with the smaller space and expand as your puppy grows.
Security Features: Latch and Lock Types
The latch is what keeps your dog inside. A weak latch can be a safety hazard. The most secure option is a slide-bolt latch, which is used on the Carlson Pink and the BestPet 18”.
The Midwest iCrate uses a different but equally secure latch that owners trust. Avoid crates with flimsy plastic clips or push-button latches, as determined dogs can sometimes open them.
Portability and Ease of Travel
If you travel with your dog, portability is a major factor. The DUMOS 24 Inch is the lightest option and folds flat quickly. The Sweetcrispy is also lightweight and easy to carry.
Heavier crates like the FDW 24” are more durable but less convenient for frequent travel. If you’re a road trip person, prioritize a crate that folds and has a carrying handle.
Balancing Budget and Quality
You don’t need to spend a fortune, but a very cheap crate can be a safety risk. The Sweetcrispy offers the best value for an adult dog. The Midwest iCrate costs a bit more but includes a divider and has a stronger build.
If you’re on a tight budget, the Sweetcrispy is a solid pick. If you want a crate that will last through multiple dogs, invest in the Midwest.
Who Should NOT Buy Best Dog Kennel for Small Breed Dogs
This category is a great fit for many owners, but it’s the wrong purchase for a few specific situations. Here’s who should skip small breed crates and what to look at instead.
You Need a Crate for a Large Breed Dog
If your dog weighs over 20 lbs, a 24-inch crate is too small. Large breeds need a 30-inch, 36-inch, or even 42-inch crate. Look for a heavy-duty wire crate or a plastic travel crate designed for larger dogs.
You’ll also want a stronger latch and thicker wire.
You Need a Crate for a Heavy Chewer
Wire crates are not chew-proof. If your dog is a determined chewer, they can bend or break thin wire. Look for a heavy-duty metal crate with thicker bars, or consider a plastic crate with a metal door.
The crates in this roundup are best for dogs that don’t chew on their crate.
You Need a Crate for a Very Tall Small Breed
Some small breeds, like Miniature Poodles or Cocker Spaniels, have longer legs. A standard 24-inch crate may be too short. Look for a crate with a taller height, such as a 24-inch tall model or a 30-inch crate.
The Midwest iCrate has a height of 19 inches, which is fine for most small breeds but may be tight for taller ones.
Final Verdict
The Midwest 24-Inch Single Door iCrate is the best overall pick for small breed dogs because it combines a divider panel, a secure latch, and a durable build at a reasonable price. It’s the most versatile option for puppies and adult dogs alike.
Want a more stylish look? The Midwest 24-Inch Pink iCrate gives you the same quality with a fun color. Need a budget-friendly option?
The Sweetcrispy 24-Inch is a great value. Travel often? The DUMOS 24 Inch is lightweight and easy to carry.
Have a teacup breed? The BestPet 18-Inch is the perfect fit.
If you’re still unsure, go back to the Who Should NOT Buy section above. If any of those situations apply to you, consider a different type of crate before you make a purchase.
FAQ
What’s the best Dog Kennel for Small Breed Dogs overall?
The Midwest 24-Inch Single Door iCrate is the overall best choice. It has a divider panel, a secure latch, and a leak-proof tray, making it ideal for small breeds and puppies.
How do I choose the right crate size for my small dog?
Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. For dogs under 10 lbs, choose an 18-inch crate. For dogs 12, 20 lbs, choose a 24-inch crate.
The Midwest iCrate includes a divider panel to adjust the size.
Is a wire crate or a plastic crate better for small dogs?
Wire crates offer better ventilation and visibility, which many dogs prefer. Plastic crates are more enclosed and can feel safer for some dogs. Both are fine for small breeds, but wire crates are more common for home use.
Can I use a small dog crate for potty training?
Yes, a properly sized crate is a great tool for potty training. The crate should be just big enough for your dog to stand and turn around. If it’s too big, your dog may use one corner as a bathroom.
The Midwest iCrate with its divider panel is perfect for this.
How do I clean a wire dog crate?
Most wire crates have a removable plastic tray. Simply slide out the tray, wash it with soap and water, and dry it. For the wire frame, wipe it down with a damp cloth.
The Sweetcrispy and Midwest both have leak-proof trays that are easy to clean.
