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UPDATED : SEPTEMBER 2023 We’ve updated this review to include the Sliding Door Crate from Lords & Labradors as a pick. |
We have a hunch that you're here because you're about to welcome a puppy.
If so, a dog crate can provide a much needed sense of security for the new member of your family whilst helping to master toilet training.
Dog crates can also support your puppy and you whilst you learn to deal with that dreaded separation issue.
We've put together our picks of the best dog crates on the UK market, along with some must-have accessories from lavish high-end furniture to far more affordable options if you're on a tight budget.
We also recommend bedding options to create a cosy, comfortable and durable sleeping space, oh and there's some gorgeous crate covers to turn your crate into a fabulous puppy den.
Firstly, we talk crate size to make sure you get the right crate for your pup. So whether it's a tiny crate or a super sized, extra large dog crate you're looking for, we have you covered.
You can judge for yourself whether you like the look and we'll fill you in as best we can how good each crate is.
Best Dog Crates & Accessories : at a glance |
Best Overall Crate : Ellie Bo |
Best Puppy Crate Bed : Danish Design |
Best Crate Cover : Molly Mutt |
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Our Picks of the Best Dog Crates and Accessories
2. Best Dog Crate Furniture : Omlet
3. Best Premium Crate : Savic
4. Best Sliding Door Crate : Lords&Labradors
5. Best Crate Starter Kit : Midwest
6. Best Simple Crate Bed : Dericor
8. Best Crate Cover : Molly Mutt
FEATURES TO CONSIDER
Before you read on, let's talk size. The right size crate will depend on the size (not the weight) of your dog. As a minimum your dog must be able to sit and stand at full height, turn around, stretch out and lie down in a natural position.
Size
Dog crates tend to be manufactured in a standard range of lengths but some crates and bedding are listed in cm and some in inches (just to confuse matters).
So here's an at-a-glance guide to help you buy a crate and bedding which fits -
Extra-Small - 22 inch dog crate (56 cm)
Small - 24 inch dog crate (61 cm)
Medium - 30 inch dog crate (77 cm)
Large - 36 inch dog crate (91 cm)
X- Large - 42 inch dog crate (106 cm)
XX-Large - 48 inch dog crate (122 cm)
Duration
If you intend to purchase a crate to use solely for the first few months then move to a dog bed, a smaller one will fit the bill.
However, if you are looking for a crate to grow with your puppy into adulthood then choose a larger crate but we'd recommend investing in a divider panel.
If the crate is initially too big for your puppy it can ruin their toilet training, as they learn it's okay to mess in one corner whilst keeping their sleeping area clean.
A divider panel is a great way to increase your crate size as your puppy grows.
Doors
Most dog crates have two doors - one on the end and one on the side. This will give you maximum flexibility for positioning it in your home. Some cheaper crates only feature one door and we do review a crate with a sliding door if you're pushed for space.
Bedding
There are bedding options designed specifically to be used with a dog crate. We'd recommend sticking to one of these options as they tend to be machine washable and built to endure those inevitable puppy accidents and chewing.
Water
Your puppy needs access to water at all times which can present a potential problem with crate training. Look at options where the water bowls can be easily secured within the crate to avoid any accidents - (we feature one later in this article)
Den
Dogs have a natural denning instinct, often preferring safe, enclosed quarters for their naps.
It's really simple to transform your crate from something akin to a cage into a comfortable and secure den.
Consider a made-to-measure crate cover, furniture or even some cosy throws - we'll touch on a couple of options later.
At Smart Bark, we're always on the hunt for the best of the best. We've researched this buying guide to provide you with an overview of your options and help you decide which features are most important to you and your four-legged friend.
So let's have a look at what the best dog crates and accessories on the market for 2024 have to offer you and your new puppy.
OUR PICKS OF THE BEST DOG CRATES AND ACCESSORIES
1. Best Overall Dog Crate
Ellie-Bo
Known for their simple, durable and well designed crates, Ellie-Bo offer the best value crates on the UK market.
Their range has standard and deluxe models along with options for a black or silver finish. Ellie-Bo stock a range of dog crates available in 5 sizes - from 24 inch to 48 inch.
Whether you opt for the standard or deluxe model, they both feature two door openings, one on the front and one on the side. This offers you maximum flexibility when it comes to positioning the crate in your home.
Both doors are secured with two sturdy latches to deal with any budding Houdini's out there.
Better still, the cage is easy to set up and collapse for storage (no tools needed). The steel tray in the base is removable and the crate has a carry handle if you need to reposition the crate.
A word of caution for anyone with wooden floors. We'd recommend placing your crate on a doormat or something similar to protect your flooring from scratches.
The difference between the standard Ellie-Bo and the deluxe model are thicker bars and the addition of a faux sheepskin cushion.
The truth is that Ellie-Bo crates are well made, durable and for most new dog families will provide a secure sleeping place for your puppy at a great price.
Reasons to Buy
+ Well designed
+ Great value for money
+ Two door flexibility
+ Easy set-up
+ Standard or deluxe models
+ Available in black or silver
Reasons to Avoid
- May scratch wooden floors
Buying Option
2. Best Dog Crate Furniture
Omlet
If you're looking for a crate which looks like a piece of stylish, modern furniture, this could be for you.
Designed around either a 24"or 36" crate, the Fido Studio range not only house the crate but also offer a host of amazing optional extras for a luxury look.
Incredibly flexible so you can order your crate with or without the tray or bed.
A side cupboard is available so you can store all your dog's stuff in one place. Other extras include a bed, storage box and even a clothes rail for the cupboard. What's not to love?
Obviously the Omlet furniture is a more expensive than a simple dog crate, but it looks super stylish and offers a host of options so you can customise your crate for your dog and your space.
If this is a stretch then it's worth noting that Omlet also offer a range of high-quality crates on their own without the additional furniture called Fido Classic.
These are great quality crates, they feature two doors, a carry handle and fold down easily for storage.
We love that Omlet provide all the dimensions of the crate including the door size, door lip and even packaging dimensions so you can measure up at home and order, knowing the dog crate will fit your space perfectly.
Reasons to Buy
+ Stylish dog crate
+ Host of optional extras
+ All measurements on website
Reasons to Avoid
- More expensive
Buying Options
We also review Omlet's amazing range of premium dog beds for growing pups - Ultimate Canine Comfort
3. Best Premium Dog Crate
Savic
A great alternative but admittedly slightly pricier than the Ellie-Bo version, is the Savic Residence Dog Crate.
Built to an extremely high standard, the Savic dog crates stand out feature is the wire coating. The zinc-plating is not only extremely durable but gives it this beautiful silver coloured finish.
As with most dog crates, the Savic crate is completely collapsible and comes with two handles so it's easy to transport in the house or to the car if you want to use it in the car boot when travelling.
We loved the addition of rubber feet to stop the crate from scratching your floors. These extra touches set the Savic crates apart from their rivals.
All their crates with the exception of the small and extra small sizes have front and side doors. The small and extra small (shown above) have front and top doors which helps you to get tiny puppies in and out.
Another design feature is the plastic (not metal) tray which incorporates an edge channel to keep your dog dry. The plastic tray is not only warmer than the metal but has no sharp edges.
There are a host of options you can add, including wheels, spare trays, dividers and fleece beds.
If you're looking for a premium dog crate with some well thought out features then you'll be hard pushed to find one better than Savic.
Reasons to Buy
+ Hard wearing coating
+ Plastic tray
+ Floor protectors
+ Optional extras available
Reasons to Avoid
- Pricier than Ellie-Bo
Buying Options
4. Best Sliding Door Crate
Lords & Labradors
Short of space ? Looking for a crate to fit in your car boot ? Take a look at the sliding door crate from Lords & Labradors.
Instead of opening outwards the main door slides to save space. This makes the crate ideal for cramped spaces or for the boot of a car when you are looking to maximise the space available.
This Lords & Labrador crate has two doors, thicker bars than a standard crate and comes with a removable metal floor tray.
Available in 2 sizes. Whilst not the cheapest crates available, Lords & Labradors offer a wide range including standard crates in gold, black and silver finish.
Reasons to Buy
+ Sliding door
+ Perfect for small spaces
+ Two door flexibility
+ Easy set-up
Reasons to Avoid
- Slightly pricier
Buying Options
If you're considering travelling with your dog in the car, we have a range of popular articles which may help - Best Car Boot Liners for Dogs, Best Dog Car Seats, Best Car Seat Covers
5. Best Crate Starter Kit
Midwest
If you're looking for a a great value option with everything that your puppy needs included, then Midwest's iCrate Starter Kit could be the perfect option.
No need to worry about measuring and checking your chosen bed will fit your crate, this starter set from Midwest contains everything your puppy will need for a good nights sleep.
Obviously the kit includes a crate, this one has two doors so you have flexibility on where you place it in your home.
Also included in the set is a Quiet Time dog bed. An ultra-soft synthetic sheepskin with comfortable polyester filled bolsters which fits your crate perfectly.
A Quiet Time crate cover creates a calm space to promote sleeping and finally 2 dog bowls are included which fix to the crate sides to avoid spillages.
Crucially the iCrate Starter Kit works out to be excellent value, considerably cheaper than buying the individual products separately. Everything arrives packaged together and there are 4 size options available.
Similar to the other crates featured, the crates fold flat for storage, there's no assembly required.
If you're expecting a puppy and are looking for the ultimate in convenience, we would certainly recommend the great value Midwest iCrate Starter Kit. |
It's worth mentioning that Midwest also offer a range of crates without the full starter set. Their newly updated crates come with secure slide-bolt latches, rounded corners, a durable black finish and a removable plastic pan for easy cleanup.
Reasons to Buy
+ Everything included
+ Great value for money
+ Two door flexibility
+ Easy set-up
Reasons to Avoid
- If you want to choose your bed/ cover
Buying Options
6. Best Simple Crate Bed
Dericor
If you're looking for bedding with a cosier look and feel, Dericor offer simple and practical padded beds to fit a range of crates from 22" to 36" crates.
Made from artificial sheepskin fleece, these cosy dog beds are not only comfortable and warm they're also great value.
More importantly, they are machine washable and dry extremely quickly which is crucial when toilet training.
They could completely cover the base of the crate or fit in one half to form a smaller sleeping zone.
We've used Dericor beds with two puppies in the past and found they were durable, great value, super easy to wash and dry and our puppies loved them.
Reasons to Buy
+ Great value
+ Super cosy
+ Washable
Reasons to Avoid
- Lacks designer looks
Buying Options
7. Best Puppy Crate Mat
Vetfleece
Once you've decided on your crate size the next step is choosing bedding. Affordable and very reputable, the Vetfleece bedding is hugely popular with new puppy owners.
Designed to drain liquids away, keeping your puppy dry and comfortable all night long so you can all get a good night's sleep.
The comfy fleece top helps to retain heat, so your dog is nice and warm even if they've had an accident.
The best bit though is that it's machine washable and dries quickly so accidents can be dealt with easily. If you are a new puppy owner, this is a game changer.
We recommend considering buying two to make life easy for yourselves.
The range includes new and improved Vetfleece with a non-slip backing making them ideal for all types of flooring as well as in a crate.
They are available in a range of colours, designs and sizes to fit any of the standard dog crates mentioned in this article.
Reasons to Buy
+ Great value
+ Keeps puppy dry
+ Washable
Reasons to Avoid
- Not the most cosy looking
Buying Options
We take a look at some of the Best Puppy Chew Toys on the UK market that will save your ankles, hands and possibly your favourite pair of shoes. |
8. Best Crate Cover
Molly Mutt
If you're looking to completely transform your dog’s crate into a smart dog den, a cover from Molly Mutt would certainly fit the bill.
Molly Mutt are a US company designing a range of crate covers and beds which are now available in the UK through Amazon.
Their collection of crate covers have been designed to fit standard crates including any featured earlier in this article. With several designs and colours available you can match any room in your home.
Made from breathable cotton canvas both the short and the long sides roll up to offer complete flexibility on positioning and they are machine washable.
Available in a range of adorable designs and sizes.
Reasons to Buy
+ Gorgeous designs
+ Breathable material
+ Machine washable
Reasons to Avoid
-
Buying Options
9. Best Dog Crate Bowls
Joyoldelf
Dog and puppies should have access to fresh water at all times.
To avoid accidents and spillages, opt for a dog bowl specifically designed to work with crates.
The Joyoldelf hanging bowls attach to the side of your crate meaning they're off the floor and less likely to be knocked over or dragged around the crate.
The removable stainless steel dog bowl can be filled with water and simply placed back in the holder.
Very sturdy and a clever option to avoid puppies spilling their water.
Reasons to Buy
+ Attaches to crate
+ Easy to fill
+ Less spillages
Reasons to Avoid
- Only use with crate
Buying Options
If you'd like to explore other dog bowls we recommend, take a look at our picks of the Best Dog Bowls for 2024
10. Best Crate for your Car
Thule
Thule are renowned for offering high quality travel solutions, and their dog crate is no exception. Launched January 2024, their Allax dog crates are the crème de la crème of car dog crates, uniquely designed and well built.
As you'd expect from Thule, the Allax dog crate has been rigorously crash tested in their Thule Test Center where they recreated rear-end collisions, front collisions and even roll-over scenarios.
The innovative crumple zone is designed to provide superior protection for both passengers and your dog in the case of an accident. So it's fair to say that this dog crate ensures that both you and your dog are as safe as possible.
Available in 10 different sizes to suit your car and your dog. Whilst not the cheapest option available, it is undeniably the safest.
Reasons to Buy
+ Safest Solution
+ Fully crash tested
+ Could be a long term solution
+ Well designed
Reasons to Avoid
- Most expensive option
Buying Options
Read our deep dive - Crash Tested Confidence: Thule Dog Crate Review
OUR VERDICT
For most new puppy owners we would definitely recommend an Ellie-Bo dog crate. Of course, it will keep your puppy safe and secure exactly the same as the other crates we've featured, but our overall favourite is the market leader with countless 5 star reviews from happy dog lovers everywhere.
Ellie-Bo crates are durable, easy to assemble and their standard sizing means it's incredibly easy to add dog beds and accessories to fit.
If you're looking for a super stylish dog crate and accessories sure to make even the most chic fash-puppy drool with delight, then we would recommend taking a closer look at the Omlet range.
DOG CRATE TRAINING TIPS
Hopefully this article has given you some guidance about which dog crate size and design is best for your puppy along with a look at some gorgeous crate accessories to help you design the perfect dog den.
Here are some top tips to help with your dog crate.
✅ Always remove your dog's collar so it can't get caught on the sides of the crate.
✅ Position your crate away from direct sunlight or draughts.
✅ Place some safe, chew toys inside along with something that smells of 'mum'.
✅ To encourage your dog to relax and sleep in their crate, try some background music. Spotify has several playlists with a soothing and calming mix of music for your dog.
If you are looking for some guidance on how to use a dog crate successfully, then the RSPCA have a wonderful step-by-step guide to introducing and using a crate. Available for you to print and keep, the link is at the bottom of this short article -
Thank you for stopping by and taking a look at our review of the Best Dog Crates and Accessories.