Best Dog Crates UK 2026 : Tested & Reviewed for Puppies

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We’ve got a feeling you might have a fluffy little whirlwind joining your home soon!

Bringing home a puppy is such an exciting (and slightly chaotic) time, full of cuddles, curiosity, and the occasional chewed slipper.

photograph : deposit photos

The dog crate, also referred to as a dog cage, playpen, puppy pen or indoor kennel, is designed as a safe, secure area that a dog can go into for short periods of time.

Source: RSPCA — Dog Crates Advice

A good dog crate can quickly become your best friend, giving your pup a cosy, safe spot to call their own. It’s also a brilliant helper for toilet training and can make those first “I’ll just pop out for a bit” moments a lot less stressful for you both.

This guide will help you choose the perfect crate for your puppy's needs and budget. We'll cover everything from crate size and key features to consider, to some stylish accessories and playpen options, ensuring your puppy has a comfortable and secure place to rest.

Whether you're looking for a luxurious crate or a practical option, we've got you covered.

⚡ QUICK ANSWER ⚡

Best Dog Crates

Our Top Pick: Ellie-Bo (Best Overall)

Best Premium: MidWest Homes Ovation

Best for Cars: Thule Allax

Best Starter Kit: MidWest iCrate

Testing note: Reviewed by Claire Woosey, tested with Freddie (Cockapoo) and Smart Bark's dog tester team.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Our Crate Size Guide

Other Features to Consider

Our Picks of the Best Dog Crates & Accessories

1. Best Overall Dog Crate : Ellie-Bo

2. Best Premium Dog Crate : MidWest Homes

3. Best Sliding Door Crate : Lords&Labradors

4. Best Crate Starter Kit : MidWest

5. Best Simple Crate Bed : Dericor

6. Budget Friendly Crate Mat : Vetfleece

7. Best Waterproof Crate Mat : Pup & Kit

8. Best Dog Crate Bowls : Joyoldelf

9. Best Puppy Playpen Range : Pets at Home

10. Best Crate for your Car : Thule

Our Verdict

FAQs

How to Crate Train your Puppy : The Smart Bark Guide

OUR CRATE SIZE GUIDE

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 or puppy must be able to sit and stand at full height, turn around, stretch out and lie down in a natural position.

Dog crates tend to be manufactured in a standard range of lengths but some crates and bedding are listed in centimeters and some in inches (just to confuse matters).

photograph : lords & labradors

So here's an at-a-glance guide to help you buy a crate and bedding which fits. The measurement refers to the length of the crate -

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)

OTHER FEATURES TO CONSIDER

Duration

If you’re planning to move your puppy onto a dog bed after those early crate training days, a smaller crate will do just fine.

However, if you see the crate becoming part of your dog’s long-term routine, it’s worth investing in a larger one with a divider panel. This gives you the flexibility to expand the space as your puppy grows, keeping things comfy while still supporting good habits.

Just bear in mind that a crate that’s too big, too soon, can make toilet training harder, as your puppy might decide one corner’s for naps and the other’s for, well… other business!

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. Be aware that some cheaper crates only feature one door.

However, if you are very short on space, consider a crate with a sliding door. While less common and more expensive, it's a practical solution for smaller living areas. We feature a sliding door crate by Lords and Labradors later in the review.

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, quick drying and built to endure those inevitable puppy accidents and chewing.

photograph : wix

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 secured within the crate but off the ground to avoid any accidents - (we feature one option later in this article)

Den

Dogs have a natural denning instinct and often feel most comfortable in a safe, enclosed space for their naps.

Turning a crate from a simple cage into a cosy, secure den is easier than you might think. Think crate covers tailored to fit, a little furniture around it, or some soft, snuggly throws to make it inviting.

So let's have a look at what the best dog crates and accessories on the market have to offer you and your new puppy.

OUR PICKS OF THE BEST DOG CRATES & 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.

photograph : smart bark

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 in to 48 in (61cm - 122cm)

We took a closer look at their 30 in (77cm) standard model in black. To be honest, if you plan to use the dog crate to train a young puppy in the short to medium term, the standard black is your best value option.

OK so, 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 and bear in mind that the doors swing outwards.

Both doors are secured with two sturdy latches to deal with any budding Houdini's out there. As you can see here, it's a simple mechanism but works exceptionally well.

photograph : smart bark

We found the foldable cage super easy to set up and collapse for storage, no tools required! Just be careful with your fingers when securing the side latches.

A quick note on the door design: while the Ellie-Bo crate is a solid choice, the door doesn’t open all the way to the bottom. This could be a slight challenge for tiny breeds or young puppies, but once you add a cosy dog bed in the base, it shouldn’t cause any problems.

It's worth mentioning that Ellie-Bo dog crates come with a carry handle if you need to reposition the crate.

A quick tip for those with wooden floors: we recommend placing the crate on a mat or rug to prevent any scratches.

photograph : smart bark

The steel tray at the base is designed to catch spills, and thanks to the wide doors, it’s easy to reach in and clean. Plus, the tray is removable, making tidying up even simpler.

The crate itself is sturdy and well-made, with no sharp edges, so it can handle even the most enthusiastic chewers.

It’s worth noting the difference between the Ellie-Bo standard and deluxe models: the deluxe has thicker bars and comes with a cosy faux sheepskin cushion.

Overall, Ellie-Bo crates are a great-value option and could even double as a travel crate in the car.

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

View Ellie-Bo on Amazon

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2. Best Premium Dog Crate

MidWest Homes

A great alternative but admittedly slightly pricier than the Ellie-Bo version, is the MidWest Homes for Pets - Ovation Double Door Crate.

photograph : midwest

All MidWest Homes dog crates are built to an extremely high standard, but it's their Ovation range which really stood out for us.

They feature two doors, one standard door and an extra wide side door. It opens like an up-and-over garage door and lays flat on top of the crate.

We think that this is a great space-saving feature. When the door is lowered, there is a strong metal channel which secures the door in place.

MidWest also offer a single up-and-over door option which is cheaper.

As with most dog crates, the MidWest Homes for Pets crate is completely collapsible and comes with a handle 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 also love the addition of rubber feet to stop the crate from scratching your floors.

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.

In our view, these thoughtful features make the MidWest Ovation range well worth considering.

Reasons to Buy

+ Garage style door

+ Plastic tray

+ Floor protectors

+ Optional extras available

Reasons to Avoid

- Pricier than Ellie-Bo

Buying Options

View MidWest Homes for Pets on Amazon

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3. 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.

photograph : lords & labradors

Lords & Labradors are definitely in the premium league. But hear me out – these crates are seriously good! You've got two doors, bars that are extra strong, a removable tray for easy cleaning, and they're powder-coated, so they're super tough.

But the best bit - a sliding door? Genius! 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.

Available in a small range of three sizes.

To be honest, we think that it depends how long you think you'll be using your crate as to whether you consider this an investment or a needless splurge!

Reasons to Buy

+ Sliding door

+ Perfect for small spaces

+ Two door flexibility

+ Easy set-up

   + Hard wearing

Reasons to Avoid

- Slightly pricier

Buying Options

A little warning: if you check out the Lords & Labradors crate on Pets at Home, the website’s “Frequently Bought Together” feature is super helpful highlighting a bed that fits… until it isn’t. One minute it’s suggesting the perfect dog bed, the next thing you know you’re looking at two crates and one bed before you’ve even blinked! Our advice... double check your basket before paying

View on Pets at Home

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If you're considering travelling with your dog in the car, we have a range of popular articles which may help - Best Dog Car Seats, Best Car Seat Covers, Best Car Boot Liners for Dogs

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4. Best Crate Starter Kit

MidWest

If you're looking for a a great value option with everything that your puppy needs included, then the MidWest 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 night's sleep.

photograph : midwest

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

View MidWest Starter Kit on Amazon

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5. 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.

photograph : dericor

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

View on Amazon

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6. Budget Friendly 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.

photograph : vet fleece

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

View on Amazon

View on Vetfleece

​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.

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7. Best Waterproof Crate Mat

Pup & Kit

For a crate blanket that combines comfort and practicality, the PupProtector from UK-based Pup & Kit is a standout choice.

photograph : smart bark

Crafted with a luxurious blend of Sherpa fleece and natural cotton, this blanket offers a cosy feel while providing essential waterproof protection.

Designed to fit standard crates, the PupProtector is a versatile addition to any puppy lover's arsenal. 

photograph : pup & kit

Not only is it perfect for crate use, but it also doubles as a sofa cover or a general throw to safeguard your furniture from accidents. Our testers also found it useful in the boot of the car to protect from dog hair and wet paws!

With its machine washable and tumble dry-safe properties, the PupProtector offers convenience without compromising quality.

photograph : smart bark

Whether you're looking for a cosy crate companion or a protective layer for your furniture, the PupProtector is a must-have for any pup parent. Available in grey or cream.

Reasons to Buy

+ Waterproof

+ Soft and cosy Sherpa fleece

+ Suitable for crates and sofas

+ Machine washable and tumble dry safe

Reasons to Avoid

- Not as padded as Dericor bedding

Buying Options

Save 15% OFF Pup & Kit with discount code SMARTBARK15

View on Pup & Kit

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8. Best Dog Crate Bowls

Joyoldelf

Dog and puppies should have access to fresh water at all times.

photograph : joyoldelf

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

View on Amazon

If you'd like to explore other dog bowls we recommend, take a look at our picks of the Best Dog Bowls

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9. Best Puppy Playpen Range

Pets at Home

Not Sure a Crate is Right for You? Meet the Puppy Playpen.

If you are looking to give your puppy a bit more room to move while still keeping them safely contained, a puppy playpen (sometimes called an exercise pen) could be the perfect solution.

photograph : depositphotos

Playpens are brilliant for puppies who need a secure space during the day but feel a little too confined in a crate. They are also a great way to protect your home from the inevitable chaos that comes with a curious, teething puppy on the loose ( skirting boards beware!)

Unlike a crate, a playpen gives your pup space to play, stretch out and access their water bowl without you needing to be on constant supervision duty. Many owners use both, a crate for overnight sleeping and a playpen for daytime independence.

If you are considering a playpen, Pets at Home stock a solid range including options from MidWest, which can be used indoors and outdoors and come with handy ground stakes for garden use. All feature a secure slide-bolt latch and an easy access door, so getting your puppy in and out is straightforward.

Check the sizing carefully before you buy. Playpens come in different heights and configurations, so it is worth measuring your space and considering your puppy's eventual adult size before committing.

Browse Puppy Playpens at Pets at Home

10. Best Crate for your Car

Thule

Thule are renowned for offering high quality travel solutions, and their dog crate is no exception. Their Allax dog crates are the crème de la crème of car dog crates, uniquely designed and well built.

photograph : smart bark

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

View on Thule

Read our deep dive - Crash Tested Confidence: Thule Dog Crate Review

OUR VERDICT

For new puppy parents, the Ellie-Bo crate is a top choice. Its durability, easy assembly, and standard sizing make it a practical and popular option. While other crates offer similar safety and security, Ellie-Bo's combination of quality and functionality sets it apart.

To complete the crate setup, consider coordinating bedding from brands like Dericor, Pup & Kit, or Vetfleece for a harmonious and comfortable space for your new puppy.

FAQs

What size dog crate do I need for my breed?

Size is everything when it comes to crates. Your dog needs to be able to stand at full height, turn around comfortably and stretch out flat without touching the sides. As a rule of thumb, Cockapoos and Spaniels are happy in a 30" crate, Labradors and Goldens typically need a 36", and larger breeds like German Shepherds will need a 42" or above.

Not sure? Always go bigger rather than smaller. Our size guide at the top of this article has everything you need.

Should I cover a dog crate at night?

Yes, in most cases a crate cover is a brilliant idea. Dogs have a natural denning instinct and a covered crate feels far more secure and cave-like than an open wire cage. It also blocks out early morning light (hello, 5am wake-up calls) and reduces distractions.

Use a purpose-made crate cover or a breathable blanket, and always leave one side partially open for ventilation.

Is it cruel to crate a dog?

Used correctly, absolutely not. A crate gives your dog their own safe, calm space in what can be a very busy household. Most dogs genuinely love their crate once they are trained to use it properly and will choose to nap in it long after crate training is done.

The key word is correctly. A crate should never be used as a punishment, and a dog should never be left in one for longer than they can reasonably cope with. Done right, it is one of the kindest things you can do for a new puppy.

How long can you leave a puppy in a crate?

Much less time than most people think, especially in those early weeks. A rough guide is one hour per month of age, up to a maximum of four hours during the day for older puppies.

Young puppies simply cannot hold their bladder for long, so crate time should always be followed by an immediate trip outside. Overnight is different once your puppy is settled, as sleep naturally extends the time they can go without a toilet break. Check our crate training guide below for a full age-by-age breakdown.

What is the best dog crate for a car boot?

It depends on your priorities. If budget is the main consideration, the Ellie-Bo folds flat and travels well in most car boots. If space is tight, the Lords and Labradors sliding door crate is a smart solution as the door does not swing outwards.

If safety is your number one priority though, the Thule Allax is in a league of its own. It is the only crate on our list that has been rigorously crash tested and it is the one we would always recommend for regular car travel. We have a full review of the Thule if you're interested in knowing more.

Should I put water in a dog crate overnight?

For young puppies, water overnight can actually work against your toilet training efforts. Most vets recommend a final water stop around an hour before bedtime, followed by a toilet trip outside right before the crate goes on for the night.

Once your dog is older and reliably clean, a spill-proof crate bowl is a great addition for daytime use. We recommend the Joyoldelf hanging bowl featured in this article as it attaches to the crate side and is far less likely to be knocked over or used as a paddling pool.

HOW TO CRATE TRAIN YOUR PUPPY : THE SMART BARK GUIDE

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.

So you've got the perfect crate. Now for the fun part, convincing your puppy that it's actually their idea to go in it.

The good news? Most puppies take to crate training faster than you'd expect. The secret is making the crate feel less like a cage and more like the cosiest little den in the house. Here's how.

Step 1 : Make It Irresistible Before They Even Step Inside

Before your puppy goes anywhere near the crate, make it look and smell incredible. Pop in some soft bedding, toss in a few treats, and if possible, add something that smells of their mum or litter. Leave the door wide open and just let them sniff around at their own pace. No pressure, no drama. You're planting a seed.

Top tip: Feed their first few meals just outside the crate, then gradually move the bowl inside over a few days. Food is a very powerful persuader.

Step 2 : Short and Sweet to Start

Once your puppy is happily pottering in and out, start closing the door, but only for a minute or two at first. Sit nearby, stay calm, and open it before they have a chance to fuss. The goal at this stage is simply to prove that the door closing is not a big deal.

Build up the time slowly over several days. Think minutes, not hours.

Top tip: A stuffed Kong or a favourite chew toy is your best friend here. Give it to them as they go in, suddenly the crate is where the good stuff happens.

Step 3 : Crack the Night Routine

The first few nights are the trickiest, we won't pretend otherwise. Most puppies will whimper a little, and it takes every ounce of willpower not to rush over and scoop them up.

It's entirely up to you where you position the crate overnight. You can choose to keep the crate in your bedroom to start with. Hearing you breathe is genuinely reassuring for a puppy who has just left their litter. Once they're sleeping through confidently, you can gradually move the crate to its permanent spot.

Or opt to keep the crate in the kitchen, or quiet space.

Top tip: A warm (not hot) water bottle wrapped in a blanket can work wonders on that first night. It mimics the warmth of their littermates and helps them settle.

Step 4 : Keep It Positive

The crate should never be used as a punishment. If your puppy associates it with being told off, you'll undo all your good work very quickly.

Think of it as their bedroom, a place they choose to retreat to for a nap, some quiet time, or a chew. Many dogs use their crate well into adulthood entirely of their own free will. Get the early training right and it becomes their happy place for life.

⏱️ How Long Can a Puppy Stay in a Crate?

This is one of the most important questions new puppy owners ask and the answer changes as they grow.

Age	Maximum time in crate
8–10 weeks	30–60 minutes
11–14 weeks	1–3 hours
15–16 weeks	3–4 hours
17+ weeks	4 hours (absolute max during the day)

Remember, puppies can't hold their bladder for long, so crate time should always be followed by an immediate toilet trip outside.

🚨 When to Worry (And When Not To)

A little whining when you first close the door? Completely normal, try to stay calm and ignore it if you can. Persistent distressed crying, refusing to eat, or signs of anxiety like excessive panting or drooling are worth a chat with your vet or a qualified behaviourist.

For a full step-by-step guide from the experts, the PDSA's crate training guide is brilliant. Here are a few other 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.

✅ 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.

Thank you for stopping by and taking a look at our review of the Best Dog Crates and Accessories.

Happy sleeping from the Smart Bark Team