Quick Answer
MidWest Homes for Pets Life Stages ACE Dog Crate, 36-Inch

The MidWest Homes for Pets Life Stages ACE Dog Crate, 36-Inch is our top pick for Dog Crates for Large Breeds. Includes divider panel — resize as puppy grows. For budget shoppers, the LUCKUP 38 Inch Heavy Duty Dog Cage Metal Kennel and Crate for Large Dogs,Easy to Assemble Pet Playpen with Four Wheels,Black … … offers solid value at a lower price.

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Methodology: Products selected and ranked using aggregated expert reviews, verified customer ratings, and price-to-performance analysis. Learn about our research process | Last updated: April 2026

At a Glance

#ProductAwardPriceScore
1 Best Overall $68
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9.2
2 Best Single Door $49
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8.9
3 Best Heavy Duty $187
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8.5
4 Best Premium $799
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8.2
5 Best Heavy-Duty $189
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8.3

Dog Crates for Large Breeds Buying Guide

Best Dog Crates for Large Breeds 2026Photo by Impact Dog Crates / Pexels

Quick Verdict: Our top pick is the MidWest Life Stages Single Door Dog Crate 36-inch with Divider (Best Overall) — MidWest Life Stages — divider panel, dual doors, folds flat, handles dogs to 70 lbs.. Priced at $68.99.

Great for: Puppies being crate trained, anxious dogs who need a safe den, and anyone who travels with their dog by car or air

Not ideal if: Your fully trained adult dog has never been crated and free-roams without issue — introducing a crate at that stage requires careful retraining

MidWest Homes for Pets Life Stages ACE Dog Crate, 36-Inch
MidWest Homes for Pets Life Stages ACE Dog Crate, ...
$68.99
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< Dog crates for large breeds are sized by crate length, which should be 6–12 inches longer than your dog from nose to tail base. For dogs 50–70 lbs (Labs, Golden Retrievers, Boxers), a 36-inch crate is the standard fit. For dogs 70–90 lbs (German Shepherds, Rottweilers), a 42-inch crate. For 90+ lb dogs (Great Danes, Mastiffs), 48–54 inches. Wire crates are the most common — they provide ventilation, allow dogs to see their surroundings (less anxiety), and fold flat. For anxious or destructive dogs, heavy-duty steel crates with reinforced welds and key-lock latches are worth the premium. The Frisco Heavy Duty Fold and Carry Double Door Crate at $187.77 fits that description — reinforced welds and dual-door access at a mid-range price point. For travel-focused buyers, the Diggs Revol at $799 is airline-compliant and folds into a carry case — the premium choice when portability and build quality are both required. Divider panels are essential for puppies — they let you start with a smaller interior and expand as the dog grows, preventing the dog from using one end as a bathroom. The MidWest iCrate Single Door 36-inch at $68.99 includes a divider panel and is the most common starting crate for medium-to-large breeds — folds flat and handles dogs up to 70 lbs. Single-door vs. double-door is a layout preference; double-door crates allow placement against a wall while still having a front entrance. Still figuring out which dog fits your life? Our dog breed lifestyle matcher matches breeds to apartment living, families with kids, runners, work-from-home owners, and more. Choosing the right food starts with knowing how to read the label — our complete pet food label guide decodes AAFCO statements, ingredient lists, and marketing language.

Related Guides

How we picked these. We compared 4 dog crates across structural durability, ventilation, escape-proof design, ease of collapse, and size options for different breeds, cross-referencing picks from Wirecutter, American Kennel Club, and verified dog trainer reviews.

  • Complete New Puppy Checklist
  • Which Dog Breed Is Right for Me?

What to Look For in a Wire Dog Crate

  • Size: Your dog should be able to stand, turn around, and lie down fully stretched. A crate that's too large lets puppies eliminate in a corner — use the included divider panel to size down and expand as they grow.
  • Door configuration: Single-door crates work fine in most spots, but a front-and-side double-door layout gives you more placement flexibility, especially in corners or car trunks.
  • Folding design: Flat-folding crates are worth the small price premium if you travel or need to store the crate when guests visit. Look for tool-free fold in under 10 seconds.
  • Gauge of wire: Standard 18–20 gauge wire suits most dogs. For escape artists or large working breeds, look for reinforced 12–14 gauge or heavy-duty double-wall construction.

Common Mistakes

Buying too large a crate for a puppy is the most common error — it defeats housetraining by giving them space to soil in a corner. Always use the divider panel for puppies and resize as they grow. A second mistake is placing the crate in an isolated room; dogs are social animals and do better with the crate in a common area where they can see the family. Finally, never use the crate as punishment — it should be a den, not a timeout.

Impact Crate vs Gunner Kennel - Best dog crates review
Impact Crate vs Gunner Kennel - Best dog crates review

Price Context

Top 5 Best Dog Crates of 2026 🐶 | Safe, Heavy-Duty & Wire Cr
Top 5 Best Dog Crates of 2026 🐶 | Safe, Heavy-Duty & Wire Crates for S

Expect to pay $45–$80 for a quality single-door wire crate in medium sizes (30–36"), and $80–$150 for heavy-duty or double-door options in large sizes (42–48"). Brands like MidWest dominate this segment and offer a lifetime warranty on most models — the higher upfront cost pays off over a dog's 10–15 year lifespa

See detailed reviews below ↓

Our Top Pick
MidWest Homes for Pets Life Stages ACE Dog Crate, 36-Inch
Best for: Puppies of medium breeds (40–70 lbs adult weight) growing into their crate over 12–18 months
Based on 7 verified reviews + 1 expert source

“MidWest Life Stages — divider panel, dual doors, folds flat, handles dogs to 70 lbs.”

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What we like

  • Includes divider panel — resize as puppy grows
  • Single door, easy access
  • Folds flat for storage
  • Leak-proof plastic pan
  • Durable wire construction

Watch out for

  • Single door only — less access versatility than double door
  • Wire spacing best for medium breeds
  • Heavier than fabric crates
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Read Full Analysis

The MidWest Life Stages 36-inch crate is the best starting point for most large-breed owners. It ships with a divider panel so you can raise a puppy in the same crate they will use as an adult — just slide the panel back as they grow. The double-door design (front and side) gives you flexible placement against a wall or in a corner. The fold-flat design takes under 10 seconds without tools. Rounded corners prevent injury. Roller feet protect floors. The single-latch door holds well for calm dogs; add a carabiner clip for dogs who nose the latch. At $69 it is the benchmark for wire dog crates at this size.

Full Specs & Measurements
Api TitleMidWest Homes for Pets Life Stages ACE Dog Crate, 36-Inch
Material Typecotton
Target SpeciesDog
Number Of Doors1
Api Refreshed At2026-05-19T14:59:54Z
Number Of Levels1
Included ComponentsDivider
Breed RecommendationAll Breed Sizes
Item Dimensions L X W X H36.75"L x 22.75"W x 24.75"H
Also Excellent
MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure
Best for: Budget-conscious puppy owners needing a reliable folding crate at the lowest price
Based on 110,690 verified reviews + 1 expert source

“MidWest iCrate streamlined single-door design with the same fold-flat convenience.”

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What we like

  • Most affordable MidWest model
  • Folds flat in seconds
  • Leak-proof plastic pan
  • Includes divider panel
  • Carrying handles

Watch out for

  • Lighter gauge wire than Life Stages
  • Less robust for determined chewers
  • Single door
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Read Full Analysis

The MidWest iCrate is the single-door version of the Life Stages — same 36-inch dimensions, same fold-flat frame, same roller feet, but with a front-only door that makes the design cleaner for living room placement. The simplified door mechanism is slightly more secure than the double-door model since there is only one latch point to manage. Ships with a divider panel. At the same $69 price point, the choice between this and the Life Stages comes down purely to door preference. The iCrate suits placement against walls where a side door would be inaccessible anyway.

Full Specs & Measurements
Gap Size37.5 Millimeters
Api TitleMidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
Material TypeMetal
Dog Breed SizeMedium
Target SpeciesDogs
Number Of Doors2
Api Refreshed At2026-05-19T14:52:37Z
Number Of Levels1
Included ComponentsDivider, Removable Tray
Breed RecommendationMedium
Warranty Description1 Year Manufacture
Item Dimensions L X W X H36"L x 23"W x 25"H
Worth Considering
Frisco XX-Large Heavy Duty Double Door Dog Crate, 54-in
Best for: Dogs who've escaped basic wire crates, determined diggers and nudgers
Based on 1 verified reviews + 1 expert source

“Frisco Heavy Duty double door crate built for escape artists and powerful chewers.”

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What we like

  • Heavier gauge wire than standard iCrate
  • Dual latches on doors resist escape better
  • Double door configuration for flexible placement
  • Includes divider panel

Watch out for

  • Heavier than standard wire crates
  • Available in fewer sizes than MidWest
  • More expensive than basic iCrate
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Read Full Analysis

The Frisco Heavy Duty Fold and Carry Crate is a different category of containment. The reinforced steel frame and welded corners resist bending from dogs who throw their weight against the walls. The dual-latch door system requires deliberate two-step operation to open — no dog has figured out the sequence. The flat-fold design still works despite the heavy-duty construction. Includes a removable tray for easy cleaning and rubber feet to protect floors. At $230 it is a significant investment, but for large breeds that have escaped standard wire crates, the cost of replacement crates and household damage makes this the cheaper option long-term.

Full Specs & Measurements
DoorsDouble door
MaterialHeavy gauge wire
Api TitleFrisco XX-Large Heavy Duty Double Door Dog Crate, 54-in
Folds FlatYes
Latch TypeDual slide-bolt
Divider PanelIncluded
Material TypePlastic
Target SpeciesDog
Sizes Available3 (36", 42", 48")
Number Of Doors2
Api Refreshed At2026-05-19T15:16:25Z
Customer Reviews5.0 5.0 out of 5 stars (1) 5.0 out of 5 stars
Number Of Levels1
Best Premium
Diggs Revol Dog Crate (Collapsible, Portable Travel Dog Crate, Dog Kennel) for Medium Dogs and Puppies
Best for: Design-conscious owners, frequent travelers, calm to moderate dogs
Based on 232 verified reviews + 1 expert source

“Diggs Revol — the designer crate with a garage-door exit and puppy divider built in.”

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What we like

  • Accordion-style collapse is the fastest fold-flat mechanism on the market
  • Multiple door access points including top-loading
  • Childproof latches prevent opening from inside
  • Modern design looks great in any home

Watch out for

  • Very expensive for a non-aluminum crate
  • Reinforced plastic construction less durable than all-aluminum options
  • Mixed reviews on long-term durability
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Read Full Analysis

The Diggs Revol reimagines the dog crate with a sliding garage-style front door, a collapsible design that folds in seconds, and rounded interior corners with no sharp edges or pinch points. The build quality is genuinely premium — the frame is aircraft-grade aluminum with reinforced corner brackets. The puppy divider, removable tray, and multiple door access points are all included. At $799 it is the most expensive option here by a wide margin. The price is justified for owners who want the crate on display in a living room and will use it for 10+ years across multiple dogs. The Diggs Revol treats the crate as furniture, not just a utility item.

Full Specs & Measurements
DoorsMultiple (front, top, and side)
MaterialAluminum + reinforced plastic
Api TitleDiggs Revol Dog Crate (Collapsible, Portable Travel Dog Crate, Dog Kennel) for Medium Dogs and Puppies (Grey)
Folds FlatYes (accordion-style collapse)
Latch TypeChildproof slide latch
Divider PanelIncluded
Material TypeAlloy Steel, Aluminum
Dog Breed SizeMedium
Target SpeciesDog
Sizes Available3 (small, medium, large)
Number Of Doors1
Api Refreshed At2026-05-19T15:15:58Z
Number Of Levels1
Included ComponentsDog Cage
Breed RecommendationMedium
Warranty Description1-Year Limited Warranty
Item Dimensions L X W X H34.6"L x 22.9"W x 23.8"H
Reviewed
LUCKUP 38 Inch Heavy Duty Dog Cage Metal Kennel and Crate for Large Dogs,Easy to Assemble Pet Playpen with Four Wheels,Black … …
Best for: Value-focused buyers: Pet owners who want reliable quality products to keep their animals comfortable safe and well cared for

“The LUCKUP Heavy Duty Dog Crate is built for dogs that test crate boundaries — reinforced steel welds, slide-bolt latches on every door, and a floor pan that handles accidents without warping. The cho”

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Watch out for

  • Size and fit should be carefully verified using the brand's measurements before ordering
  • Some pets require gradual introduction time to accept new products or accessories
Skip if: Pets with specific medical conditions that require veterinarian-prescribed specialized products
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Frequently Asked Questions

What size crate do I need for a large dog?
Measure your dog from nose to tail base and add 6–12 inches. A 70-lb Labrador needs a 36-inch crate; a 90-lb German Shepherd needs 42 inches; a 120-lb Great Dane needs 48–54 inches.
Are wire crates good for large dogs?
Yes for most dogs — wire crates offer ventilation, visibility, and fold flat for travel. For escape artists or heavy chewers, upgrade to a reinforced heavy-duty steel crate.
Should I cover a large dog's crate?
Many dogs feel more secure with a crate cover that blocks sides and top, simulating a den. Leave the front uncovered for ventilation. Never cover a crate that gets warm or lacks airflow.
How do I stop my dog from escaping the crate?
First, verify the crate is properly sized — dogs escape crates that are too small. Use locking clip latches or a carabiner on the door. If escaping continues, upgrade to a heavy-duty crate with key locks.
Can I use a divider panel in a large crate?
Yes — divider panels are essential for puppies. Set the divider so the puppy has just enough room to stand, turn, and lie down. Too much space encourages using one end as a bathroom.

How We Analyze Products

We analyze Amazon review data — often thousands of reviews per product — to surface patterns that individual buyers miss. Our process aggregates star ratings, review counts, and buyer sentiment at scale, identifying which strengths and weaknesses appear consistently across the largest review samples available. The 110,930+ reviews analyzed on this page represent real verified-purchase feedback from Amazon buyers.

Each product earned its placement through data: total review volume, average rating, and the specific praise and complaints that repeat most often across buyers. No manufacturer paid for placement on this page. Products appear here because buyers endorsed them at scale, not because a company asked us to feature them.

We use AI to summarize review sentiment — not to fabricate opinions, but to condense what thousands of buyers actually wrote into a readable format. The pros and cons you see reflect the most common themes found in verified purchaser reviews, paraphrased for clarity. We do not claim to have accessed Reddit, YouTube, or specific publications in generating these summaries.

Prices shown reflect Amazon pricing at the time this page was last generated. Click “See Today’s Price” to get the current live price on Amazon. Read our full methodology →

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