Want a travel-friendly option instead? The ZOMISIA 36 Inch Collapsible Dog Crate gets you there, as long as you're okay with a soft-sided design that packs down smaller than any wire crate.
This guide tells you what to look for in a foldable kennel, and more importantly, who should skip this category entirely. If you have a determined chewer or a dog over 70 pounds, you'll want to pay close attention to the "Who Should NOT Buy" section.
Everything below comes from current Amazon product data, specs, and each kennel's owner track record, not hands-on testing.
The ZOMISIA 28" L Collapsible Dog Crate is the best all-around foldable kennel for small to medium dogs who need a sturdy, portable home for indoor use and occasional travel.
Thinking about a soft-sided crate for a determined chewer? Jump to Who Should NOT Buy below before you spend anything.
Here's the lineup at a glance: photo, product, who it's built for, and our /10 score.
#3
ZOMISIAIncluded Bed + Washable Cover
8.6OUT OF 10
Build Quality8.7
Portability8.5
Ease of Setup8.8
Pet Comfort8.4
This is the best value pick for owners who want a complete crate and bed in one package with no extra shopping. The 36-inch kennel includes a removable, washable bed mat that solves the comfort issue of the #1 pick. At a 4.8 out of 5 rating from verified buyers, it has the highest owner satisfaction in this lineup. The tool-free folding design with two rolling wheels makes it easy to reposition.
The washable cover is a practical feature for dogs who shed or have accidents. You unzip it and toss it in the washing machine rather than scrubbing a plastic tray. The frame uses a collapsible design similar to the 28-inch model but scaled up for larger dogs.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The bed mat is a thin foam pad, not a plush orthopedic bed. Some owners report the foam starts to flatten after a few months of daily use. The crate itself is fabric-panel construction, so it lacks the chew resistance of a wire crate.
⚠Care: The bed cover is machine washable, but the foam pad should be air-dried only. Do not put the foam in the dryer.
Pros
- ✓Includes a removable, washable bed mat, saving you an extra purchase.
- ✓Highest owner rating in this lineup at 4.8 out of 5 stars.
- ✓Tool-free folding design with wheels for easy repositioning.
- ✓Washable cover simplifies cleaning for shedding or incontinent dogs.
Cons
- ✕Bed mat foam flattens after a few months of daily use per owner reports.
- ✕Fabric-panel construction lacks chew resistance of wire crates.
- ✕One size option limits suitability for smaller or extra-large dogs.
Dimensions
36 x 24 x 24 in
Bed Cover
Removable, Washable
Best for: Owners of large dogs who want a complete crate and bed bundle with good portability and easy cleaning, all in one package.
DONORO Dog Kennels Crates Medium Dogs: Best Budget Pop-Up For Medium Dogs
#4
DONOROPop-Up Wire Frame, Escape-Resistant
8.3OUT OF 10
Build Quality8.0
Portability8.5
Ease of Setup8.8
Pet Comfort7.9
This is the best budget pick for medium dogs who need a pop-up crate that sets up instantly and folds into a flat round carrier. The 28 x 18 x 22-inch interior fits Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, and similar breeds. The sturdy wire frame holds its shape well, and DONORO specifically markets this as escape-proof, which checks out in most owner reviews with one key exception noted below.
The pop-up design is the fastest to deploy in this lineup. You pull it out of the bag, it springs open, and you’re done in about five seconds. The brown fabric color hides dirt better than lighter grey options, and the included carrying bag makes transport straightforward.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. A handful of verified buyers report that very determined chewers can force their way through the mesh panels over time. The floor is a padded fabric base rather than a rigid tray, so it’s not ideal for dogs who are stillhouse-training.
⚠Sizing: Measure your dog carefully. The 28-inch length is snug for breeds over 25 pounds, so size up if your dog is between sizes.
Pros
- ✓Pop-up design deploys in about five seconds, no tools needed.
- ✓Sturdy wire frame holds shape and resists collapse during use.
- ✓Included carrying bag makes storage and transport effortless.
- ✓Escape-resistant construction works for most non-chewer dogs.
Cons
- ✕Mesh panels can be chewed through by determined dogs over time.
- ✕Fabric floor isn’t suitable for puppies still working on house-training.
- ✕Non-rigid base lacks the stability of a wire crate tray.
Dimensions
28 x 18 x 22 in
Best for: Budget-conscious owners of medium dogs who want a fast setup pop-up crate for travel, camping, and occasional indoor use.
Dog Crate 36x25x25 Inch Large Medium: Best Two-Door Option for Medium Dogs
#5
DogTwo Doors + Durable Mesh
8.0OUT OF 10
Build Quality7.8
Portability8.2
Ease of Setup8.1
Pet Comfort7.9
This is the best two-door pick for medium to large dogs who benefit from having multiple entry points. At 36 x 25 x 25 inches, it fits breeds up to around 65 pounds. The dual-door design gives you flexibility for placement in tight corners or beside a bed, since you can open whichever side is more accessible. Durable mesh windows on the sides provide solid airflow without compromising structure.
The foldable design collapses flat for storage, and the light grey color blends decently with modern home decor. Owner reviews note the setup takes a few minutes because the frame needs to be locked into place, but no tools are required. The mesh panels are sturdier than they look.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The 4 out of 5 rating is the lowest in this lineup, and the bulk of negative reports center on the zippers feeling cheap and occasionally jamming. The included instructions are minimal, so first-time crate buyers may need a few tries to figure out the fold.
⚠Compatibility: If your dog is between 60 and 70 pounds, measure their standing height. This crate has a 25-inch height, and some tall breeds may need more headroom.
Pros
- ✓Two doors offer flexible placement and easier pet access.
- ✓Durable mesh windows provide good ventilation while keeping dogs secure.
- ✓Folds flat for storage and requires no tools for setup.
- ✓Spacious 36 x 25 x 25-inch interior fits large medium breeds.
Cons
- ✕Zippers feel less durable and can jam per several buyer reports.
- ✕Minimal instructions make first-time setup a bit confusing.
- ✕Lowest owner rating in this lineup at 4 out of 5 stars.
Dimensions
36 x 25 x 25 in
Material
Fabric + Mesh + Frame
Best for: Owners of medium to large dogs who want front and side entry flexibility in a foldable, fabric-panel kennel for travel and home.
Midwest 30-Inch Single Door iCrate: Best Traditional Wire Crate for Training
#6
MidwestAll-Metal Wire + Divider Panel
8.7OUT OF 10
Build Quality9.0
Portability8.3
Ease of Setup8.6
Pet Comfort8.8
This is the best traditional wire crate for training puppies and medium breeds, and the only all-metal option in this lineup. The 30-inch size suits dogs from 21 to 40 pounds, and the included divider panel lets you shrink the interior space while your puppy grows, which is essential for house-training. The secure latch and leak-proof tray make cleanup simple, and the all-wire build gives your dog a clear view of the room, reducing anxiety for many dogs.
Midwest is one of the most recognized names in wire crates, and the iCrate’s long track record with owners backs that reputation. The folding design is a two-step process: pull up on the top and the sides lock into place. It’s not as instant as a pop-up, but it’s reliable and sturdy. The tray slides out from the front without moving the whole crate.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. There is no carrying handle, so transporting it folded requires two hands. At roughly 20 pounds, it’s also the heaviest option here, which makes sense given the metal construction. The bare wire floor needs a crate mat or bed for comfort.
⚠Comfort: The wire floor is not comfortable for extended lounging. Add a crate mat or bed, especially for older dogs with sensitive joints.
Pros
- ✓All-metal wire construction is chew-proof and escape-proof for most dogs.
- ✓Divider panel grows with your puppy and supports house-training.
- ✓Leak-proof plastic tray slides out for fast, easy cleanup.
- ✓Secure latch design prevents accidental door opening.
Cons
- ✕No carrying handle, making folded transport more awkward.
- ✕Heavier than fabric options at roughly 20 pounds.
- ✕Bare wire floor requires a separate crate mat for comfort.
Dimensions
30 x 19 x 20 in
Includes
Divider Panel + Tray
Best for: Puppy owners and medium-breed households who need a durable, chew-proof wire crate for house-training and daily indoor use.
Zikopomi 30 Inch Portable Soft Foldable: Best Ultra-Lightweight Pick for Small Dogs
#7
Zikopomi3-Zipper Access, Featherweight
7.9OUT OF 10
Build Quality7.6
Portability9.0
Ease of Setup8.4
Pet Comfort7.7
This is the best lightweight pick for small dogs who need a portable shelter that barely registers on your carry load. At 30 x 21 x 21 inches, it suits small breeds like Chihuahuas, Yorkies, and Shih Tzus. The triple-zipper door system offers three separate openings, which makes it easy to reach in and reassure an anxious dog or clip on a leash. The soft-sided construction folds into the included carry bag in seconds.
Owner reviews consistently mention this crate for hotel stays and visits to friends’ houses because it packs down so small. The mesh panels give good visibility and airflow, and the lightweight frame holds its shape well during normal use. For a small dog crate, this one nails portability.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. It is the least secure option in this lineup, and the fabric panels are the easiest for a determined dog to push against. The included base is thin, so you will want a padded mat for longer stays. Some owners also report the zippers require two hands to close smoothly.
⚠Security: This is a temporary enclosure, not a management solution for escape artists. Use it only when you can supervise, or your dog is well-trained to settle in crates.
Pros
- ✓Featherweight design folds into a compact carry bag for easy travel.
- ✓Triple zipper doors offer flexible access from front and both sides.
- ✓Breathable mesh panels provide visibility and airflow for small dogs.
- ✓Sets up in seconds with no tools or assembly steps.
Cons
- ✕Fabric panels are the easiest for a determined dog to push against.
- ✕Thin base provides minimal cushioning for extended stays.
- ✕Zippers can be fiddly and require two hands to close smoothly.
Dimensions
30 x 21 x 21 in
Best for: Small-dog owners who want the lightest possible foldable crate for hotel stays, visits, and carrying on short trips.
Buying Guide: Size, Material, Portability, and Your Dog's Personality
Before you buy any foldable kennel, work through these four decisions. They matter more than brand names, and getting one wrong can make the crate unusable.
How Do I Choose the Right Crate Size?
A foldable kennel should let your dog stand up, turn around, and lie down stretched out. Those three tests beat any weight chart. Measure your dog from nose to tail base and add a few inches.
This lineup spans 28 to 36 inches in length, with the ZOMISIA 28" L Collapsible Dog Crate at the small end and the Dog Crate 36x25x25 Inch Large Medium at the large end.
The key mistake buyers make is sizing up "just in case" for a growing puppy. That invites accidents, because dogs avoid soiling their sleeping area only when the space feels den-like. The divider panel on the Midwest 30-Inch Single Door iCrate solves this properly by shrinking the interior while training and expanding later.
Soft-Sided vs. Wire vs. Pop-Up: Which Construction Is Best?
Soft-sided crates (the ZOMISIA 36-inch, the Dog Crate, and the Zikopomi) fold the smallest and weigh the least. They suit travel, camping, and calm dogs who see a crate as a den. Wire crates (the Midwest) weigh more but resist chewing, provide better airflow, and give the dog a full view of the room.
Pop-up crates (the DONORO) deploy fastest but offer the least structural rigidity.
There is a trade-off you cannot avoid: lighter and smaller folding equals thinner materials. The Zikopomi folds to nearly nothing and weighs around 5 pounds, but its fabric panels give a determined small dog a fighting chance at escape. The Midwest weighs about 20 pounds but no dog is getting through steel wire.
How Important Are Wheels and Handles for Portability?
If the crate will move between rooms regularly, wheels are a genuine quality-of-life feature, not a gimmick. Both the ZOMISIA 28-inch model and the ZOMISIA 36-inch with bed mat include two rolling wheels, so you can tip the crate and roll it rather than carry it. That matters because a crate with a 30-pound dog inside is awkward to lift.
For airline or trunk travel, folded size matters more than wheels. The Zikopomi and the ZOMISIA travel crate pack into carry bags that fit overhead or in tight trunks. The Midwest, by contrast, folds flat but has no handle, so you will carry it under your arm.
What About Cleaning and the Leak-Proof Tray?
Cleaning is where budget crates often disappoint. The Midwest includes a leak-proof plastic tray that slides out from the front, which is the easiest system for accidents and muddy paws. The ZOMISIA 28-inch model also has a tray, though owners report it feels thinner.
Soft-sided crates use fabric floors that wipe clean but absorb accidents, and the DONORO's fabric base is the hardest to deep-clean.
If you have a puppy in house-training, buy the leak-proof tray and skip washable fabric floors until the accidents stop. The ZOMISIA Collapsible Dog Crate Bed Mat offers a removable, machine-washable cover, which helps with shedding and minor messes, but a soaked foam pad takes time to dry. For mess-prone situations, the tray wins.
Who Should NOT Buy Best Foldable Dog Kennel
A foldable kennel is the wrong purchase for three kinds of buyers. Here's who they are, and what to look at instead.
You Have a Determined Chewer or Escape Artist
If your dog has ever chewed through a plastic crate tray, bent a wire panel, or escaped a soft-sided enclosure, do not buy any of these seven products. The fabric panels on the soft-sided models and the thin mesh on the pop-up crates are only a delay for a motivated chewer. The Midwest wire crate is the closest thing to an exception here, but even wire crates have plastic trays that a determined chewer can destroy.
Instead, look at heavy-duty metal crates with welded wire or reinforced aluminum frames. Brands like ProSelect and Gunner make containment-focused kennels for dogs who view crates as a puzzle to solve. They cost more, but they protect your dog from ingesting fabric and protect your home from damage.
You Need a Permanent, Furniture-Grade Crate
Foldable crates compromise some stability to achieve their folding design. If your kennel will sit in one corner of your living room for years and never move, a foldable design just adds unnecessary flex points, exposed fabric, and latches that can wear out. You are paying for portability you will never use.
Consider a furniture-style crate that doubles as an end table or cabinet. These use rigid wood or metal frames, look intentional in a room, and often include a padded top surface. They are heavier and more expensive, but they feel like a piece of furniture rather than a dog cage.
You Have a Dog Over 70 Pounds
The largest crate in this lineup is 36 inches long, which fits dogs up to roughly 70 pounds. Giant breeds like Great Danes, Mastiffs, and Saint Bernards need 42-inch, 48-inch, or even 54-inch crates. None of the foldable options in this list will give them enough room to stand and turn around.
For giant breeds, look at oversized wire crates with double doors or aluminum airline kennels. These are not foldable, but your dog's comfort and joint health matter more than convenience. An undersized crate can cause stiffness and anxiety in large dogs.
Final Verdict
The ZOMISIA 28" L Collapsible Dog Crate is the best foldable dog kennel for most owners. It pairs heavy-duty steel construction with wheels, no-tool assembly, and a compact fold, which makes it the most balanced pick for small to medium dogs in this lineup. The thin floor tray is its only real weakness, and a crate mat solves that for a few dollars.
Want a travel crate that packs down tiny? The ZOMISIA 36 Inch Collapsible Dog Crate gets you a soft-sided, lightweight design with a built-in leash and plush pad for on-the-go use. Just remember that soft-sided is not chew-proof.
Training a puppy indoors? The Midwest 30-Inch Single Door iCrate is the right call, thanks to its divider panel and leak-proof tray. And if you simply want the least expensive way to try a crateand see if crating works for your dog, the DONORO Dog Kennels Crates Medium Dogs is a solid budget entry point.
If your dog is a chewer, an escape artist, or over 70 pounds, skip the foldable category entirely. The Who Should NOT Buy section above covers the right alternatives for those situations.
The right foldable kennel makes life easier for both you and your dog. Pick the one that matches your dog's size, your primary use case, and your tolerance for setup time, and you will have a crate that works for years.
FAQ
What's the best Foldable Dog Kennel overall?
The ZOMISIA 28" L Collapsible Dog Crate is the best overall pick. It combines heavy-duty steel construction, built-in wheels, tool-free assembly, and a compact fold. It fits small to medium dogs up to about 30 pounds and works well for daily indoor use with occasional travel.
How do I measure my dog for a foldable crate?
Measure from the tip of your dog's nose to the base of their tail, then add 2 to 4 inches. That is the minimum interior length you need. Also measure your dog's height from the floor to the top of their head while sitting, and add 2 to 4 inches for the height.
The crate must let your dog stand up, turn around, and lie down stretched out.
Are soft-sided foldable crates safe for dogs?
Yes, for calm, crate-trained dogs who do not chew or dig. Soft-sided crates are safe for travel, hotel stays, and supervised indoor use. They are not safe for determined chewers, escape artists, or dogs with separation anxiety who may try to claw their way out.
For those dogs, choose a wire crate like the Midwest iCrate.
Can I use a foldable dog crate for airline travel?
It depends on the airline. Most US airlines accept soft-sided crates that fit under the seat in front of you for small dogs. The Zikopomi and the ZOMISIA travel crate are good candidates because they fold small and weigh under 10 pounds.
Always check your specific airline's size and weight limits before booking, since they vary by carrier and aircraft.
How do I clean a foldable dog crate?
Wire crates with plastic trays are the easiest to clean. Slide out the tray, wash it with soap and water, and wipe down the wire frame. Soft-sided crates with fabric floors need spot cleaning or machine washing if the cover is removable.
The ZOMISIA Collapsible Dog Crate Bed Mat has a removable, washable cover, which is the most convenient option for fabric crates. Avoid putting foam pads in the dryer.
What size foldable crate do I need for a Labrador Retriever?
A full-grown Labrador Retriever typically needs a 42-inch crate. Most foldable crates in this lineup max out at 36 inches, which is too small for a Labrador over about 65 pounds. The Midwest iCrate offers a 42-inch version, but it is not included in this roundup.
For a Labrador, measure your dog and look for a 36-inch or 42-inch wire crate with a divider panel for puppy training.
