- This post contains affiliate links. Read more here.
All dogs will need to spend some time in a crate—for example on trips to the vet or while travelling. So, getting your pup used to spending time in a crate calmly at home can be a good idea.
But choosing the right crate for your dog, and then providing him with effective crate training to yield maximum benefits, requires time and planning.
This article will explore some of the reasons why crate training is a generally recommended practice by professional dog trainers, how to shop for a crate, and look at a few crates available for purchase. Because dogs and dog crates come in all shapes and sizes, this article will focus on what to look for when shopping for a crate for a small dog.
Should I Crate Train My Dog?
Why crate train your dog? Though it’s a common method of housebreaking, it’s about way more than that.
When a dog has been introduced properly to a crate, it can be a safe, relaxing space. If you’ve got a busy household, it’s good for your dogs to have a quiet, private place of their own. They can use it get away from stressful situations, and you can get your dinner cooked without a small creature underfoot.
There are also times when it’s good to be able to confine your dog for safety without stressing him out. If you’ve got a serviceperson or guests going in and out of the house, they likely won’t have your awareness of not letting the dog slip out the door, and small dogs can more easily do so unnoticed. So it’s safer for your dog to be in their crate with a nice chew toy.
Crate training can allow your dog to go more places with you, too. Some hotels allow dogs only if they’re crated when you leave them in the room. And even if it’s not required, you can’t be sure how your dog will act when left alone in a new place, so it’s safer for your dog and more considerate of the property.
There are lots of positive reasons to use a crate with your dog and, when used as directed (and not as a punishment), crate training can be an indispensable behavioural tool. For more expert tips on how to train your dog to use a crate, see the Association of Pet Dog Trainers article on crate training.
How to Choose and Use a Small Dog Crate
Get the Right Size
To choose the correct size crate for your dog, remember that the crate should be big enough for your dog to stretch out while lying on her side, and to be able to stand up and turn around easily, without hitting her head. A crate that’s a little too big is better than one that’s too small.
Once you’ve determined the size you need, figure out where you’re going to put it. The crate should be placed in a location that will be peaceful for your dog. Remember to make sure that you have enough space both for the footprint of the crate and to be able to open the door conveniently; pay attention to the direction the door opens.
Consider whether you want the crate just for home use, or if you are expecting it to multitask. Wire crates for the smallest dogs may come with handles and be portable but are not as useful for travel. Plastic carriers can be used both as your home crate and for travel, but with some caveats: Plastic is chewable, so if your dog is a chewer proceed with caution.
The plastic crates are also darker inside, so while some dogs seem to like the den-like atmosphere, others prefer to be able to see out. (One helpful thing to keep in mind is that you can always make a crate darker and warmer instantly by putting a blanket over it.)
The smallest sizes of most available small crates will have only one door latch since there’s just not room on the door for more. Sizes larger than about 19 inches have room for two, and that’s safer; so that’s something to bear in mind.
Be Patient and Loving With Your Dog
It’s vital to introduce your dog to a crate gradually in a positive way, and never use it as punishment. Never expect a new dog, whether puppy or adult, to immediately tolerate long periods alone in a crate without being gradually trained to accept it as a positive experience.
Experts also recommend against crating an adult dog for more than four or five hours at a time. If you find yourself needing to crate your dog all day while you’re at work to keep him and your possessions safe, please consult a positive trainer for help.
Be Wary of “Dog Proof” Claims
Note that if you look through reviews, there is no crate that some determined dog, somewhere, didn’t find a way out of. Short of buying a second-hand tiger cage from the zoo, nothing can be guaranteed 100% dog proof.
But it’s important to also realise that if your dog chews or otherwise breaks its way out of a crate, you may have a more serious problem, from boredom to anxiety, that requires more of your time and attention—and won’t be solved by buying a sturdier crate. Again, please consult a good positive trainer.
Also note that experts caution that it’s safest to remove harnesses and collars when you crate a dog, because of the risk of tags and straps getting caught and getting your dog stuck, injured, or worse. In reality, most of us don’t do this. It’s inconvenient, and you need to balance this risk against the risk of your dog getting out somewhere when he’s not wearing ID. But be aware that this is a risk, even if a remote one.
The Best Small Dog Crates for 2021
Convinced that you want to buy a crate and train your dog to love it? Here are our recommendations based on research and experience. You’ll see a couple of similar products, but they are available at different prices with slightly different features so you can shop and compare the options that are best for you and your pup.
1. MidWest Life Stages Small Wire Dog Crate
This is a good standard wire crate by a company that has been in the business for many years and is well-liked here at Rover. This crate comes in both single and double door versions.
Note that double door crates offer more flexibility, but two doors mean two possible ways to get out. If you’re not usually using one of the doors, consider latching it shut with a carabiner.
It also comes with a divider to make the interior smaller, which can be helpful for housetraining a growing puppy.
Things to keep in mind:
- The 22-inch crate has one latch; 24-inch and up have two
- Six sizes in total
- Rubber “roller” feet at the bottom to help prevent floor scraping
- Sets up without tools and folds flat for transport and storage
2. Iris Ohyama Indoor Dog Crate Playpen
This crate from Iris Ohyama is just right for small dogs, coming in two sizes and various colours to fit your needs. It can also be purchased with or without a roof for easy access or extra security.
Things to keep in mind:
- Single sliding door
- Removeable roof
- Easy to assemble and take down and move with sturdy closure hooks
3. Amazon Basics Soft Small Dog Crate
If you’re looking for a crate with soft sides, give this one from AmazonBasics a go. It has two doors—one at the front for your dog to go in and out, and one in the top so you can pop your pup in and take him out easily for trips to the vet or car journeys. There’s also ventilation on all sides with mesh fabric to keep your dog nice and cool.
Things to keep in mind:
- Five sizes available from 21in to 42in
- Two doors: one on the front and one on the top
- Sets up in seconds and folds flat for easy transport
- Backed by AmazonBasics limited one-year warranty
4. AmazonBasics Hard-Sided Plastic Crate
If you’d prefer a sturdier, hard plastic carry crate AmazonBasics has another great option for you. It’s very well reviewed with over 15,000 ratings and 4.5/5 stars, so you’ll be in good company if you buy this small dog crate. It also has a heavy duty design with plenty of ventilation and a sturdy construction to keep your dog nice and secure.
Things to keep in mind:
- Comes in two sizes, 19in and 23in
- Front loading and top loading doors
- Extra screws included for added security
- Easy-carry top handle
5. Karlie Small Dog Transport Crate
Similar to the above AmazonBasics hard-case crate, this Karlie transport box is approved by all European airlines so it’s perfect for taking your dog on holiday, as well as on car rides and vet trips.
Things to keep in mind:
- Available in sizes XS to XXL—measure your dog to get the right fit
- Can be taken apart for easy storage
- Safety screws for plane and train travel are included
- Top handle for easy carrying
6. PawHut Small Wooden Dog Crate
Wire and plastic crates aren’t always the prettiest, we understand! So lastly we’ve found you a stylish option that will fit right in with your furniture. Sure it’s a bit of a pricier option, but it does double up as a side table, so really you’re getting a 2-4-1 deal. Just remember not to put anything too heavy on top and always be aware of your dog’s safety.
Things to keep in mind:
- Lots of visibility for your pup to see what’s going on around her
- Easy access for your pet and for cleaning
- Wood finish might not be the best for puppies or heavy chewers
- Requires assembly
Further Reading
We’ve got plenty more advice on the best accessories for small dogs and puppies. Check out some of our articles below to find out what your next purchase should be!
