11 Best Dog Crates for English Setters (October 2026) Wire, Heavy Duty & Travel

Finding the right crate for an English Setter is harder than most people realize. These elegant sporting dogs sit in that tricky medium-to-large zone, typically weighing between 40 and 70 pounds, and they need a crate that fits their adult frame without swallowing your entire living room. After testing dozens of crates and reading through thousands of owner reviews on breed-specific forums, I put together this guide to help you skip the guesswork.

The best dog crates for English Setters need to hit a specific sweet spot: roomy enough for comfort, sturdy enough for an active breed, and practical enough for daily life. Most English Setters do best in a 36-inch crate, which gives them room to stand, turn around, and stretch out without excess space that undermines house training.

In this guide, I walk through 11 crates I would actually recommend to fellow English Setter owners. Whether you need a budget-friendly wire crate for puppy training, a heavy-duty option for an escape artist, or an airline-approved kennel for travel, you will find the right fit below. Every pick here is based on real product data, verified owner feedback, and the specific needs of this breed.

Top 3 Picks for Best Dog Crates for English Setters

Best Dog Crates for English Setters in 2026

1. MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Double Door – Best Overall Wire Crate

The MidWest iCrate has been the go-to wire crate for English Setter owners for years, and for good reason. I have seen this crate recommended time and again in breed-specific forums, with owners of 60 to 70-pound English Setters confirming the 36-inch size fits perfectly. The double-door design means you can position it against a wall and still have easy access through the side door.

What sets this crate apart is the included divider panel. If you are bringing home an English Setter puppy, you can section off part of the crate to make it smaller, preventing accidents in one corner while the pup sleeps in the other. As your Setter grows, you simply slide the divider back until the full space is available. This feature alone saves you from buying two crates as your dog matures.

The slide-bolt latches feature MidWest’s Paw Block technology, which adds an extra layer of security against clever dogs who figure out how to nudge standard latches open. English Setters are intelligent and curious, so this small detail matters more than you might think. The black e-coat finish holds up well against scratching and rusting, and the leak-proof plastic tray slides out for easy cleaning.

Assembly takes about five minutes with zero tools. You unfold the crate, hook the side panel clips into place, and attach the tray. The whole thing weighs 22 pounds, making it light enough to move around the house but sturdy enough for daily use. At 190,000-plus reviews and a 4.7-star rating, this is the crate most English Setter owners end up choosing, and I understand why.

Is the MidWest iCrate big enough for a full-grown English Setter?

Yes, the 36-inch iCrate fits most adult English Setters comfortably. The internal dimensions give a dog up to 70 pounds plenty of room to stand up, turn around, and lie down stretched out. If your Setter is on the larger end of the breed standard, closer to 80 pounds, you may want to consider the 42-inch version instead.

How easy is it to clean after accidents?

The plastic tray slides out from the front, so you can remove it, wash it in the bathtub or with a hose, and slide it back in without disturbing your dog or disassembling the crate. The tray is also compatible with standard crate pads and liners sized for 36-inch crates.

2. Amazon Basics Portable Metal Wire Dog Crate – Best Budget Wire Crate

The Amazon Basics wire crate delivers the core features you need at a price that is hard to beat. I like this option for English Setter owners on a budget who still want a reliable, well-built crate with a divider panel included. The metal wire construction is surprisingly sturdy for the price, and the black finish looks clean in any room.

Setup is genuinely simple. You unfold it, secure the side panels, and drop in the tray. It folds flat just as easily, which makes it convenient for travel or seasonal storage. The single-door design is the main tradeoff compared to the MidWest iCrate above, but if you plan to place the crate with the door facing outward, it works perfectly fine. The included divider panel is a major plus for puppy training.

At just over 20 pounds, this is one of the lightest wire crates in its class. The removable plastic base tray has a metal hook that prevents it from sliding around, a nice touch that some pricier crates skip. With 17,500 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, the consensus is clear: this is a dependable crate that does the job without unnecessary extras.

One thing to keep in mind: the interior dimensions are listed as suitable for pets fitting within 32 x 21 inches, which accommodates most English Setters just fine. However, if your dog is particularly tall or long, measure carefully before ordering to ensure a comfortable fit.

Does it come with a divider panel?

Yes, the Amazon Basics crate includes a wire divider panel, which is unusual at this price point. You can use it to shrink the interior space for a puppy and expand it as your English Setter grows, saving you from buying multiple crates during the first year.

Is the single door a problem for daily use?

For most setups, the single door works fine. You just need to position the crate so the front faces an open area. If you plan to tuck the crate into a corner or against a wall and want side access, the double-door MidWest iCrate or New World crate would be a better choice.

3. MidWest New World Double Door Crate – Solid Mid-Range Option

The MidWest New World crate sits right between the budget Amazon Basics and the premium Ultima Pro. I find it hits a nice balance for English Setter owners who want the double-door convenience and MidWest build quality without stepping up to the heavier-gauge wire. The construction uses the same precision welding and rounded corner clips as the iCrate, with the same Paw Block latches that resist clever paws.

The double-door layout is the standout feature here. You get a front door and a side door, giving you flexibility in placement. In a smaller room, the side door means you can push the crate against a wall and still let your Setter in and out easily. The leak-proof tray, rubber floor-protecting feet, and carrying handle are all included.

The biggest downside is that the divider panel is sold separately. If you are crate-training an English Setter puppy, factor that into your total cost. For adult dogs, this is not an issue. The crate folds flat for storage, requires no tools for assembly, and has the same proven e-coat finish that resists rust and wear over time.

At 20 pounds, it is lightweight enough to move from room to room. The 2,096 reviews average 4.7 stars, with owners specifically praising the door mechanisms and the overall sturdiness for medium-to-large breeds. This is a reliable mid-range choice for English Setter owners who prioritize door flexibility.

Do I need to buy the divider panel separately?

Yes, unlike the iCrate and Amazon Basics, the New World crate does not include a divider panel. You can purchase a compatible MidWest divider separately. If you are training a puppy, I recommend ordering the divider at the same time so you have it from day one.

How does it compare to the iCrate?

The New World uses the same basic construction as the iCrate, but it is positioned as a more premium line with slightly different finish details. The main practical difference is the missing divider panel. If you want the divider included, the iCrate is the better value. If you have an adult dog and want double doors, the New World works great.

4. MidWest Ultima Pro Heavy-Duty Crate – Best for Escape Artists

If your English Setter is the type who bends wire bars, pops latches, or treats the crate like a puzzle to solve, the Ultima Pro is the answer. This is MidWest’s heaviest-duty wire crate, built with professional-grade steel and the thickest wire gauge the company offers. It is the same crate Wirecutter has kept as their top pick since 2017, and the reputation is well earned.

The double doors each have two slide-bolt latches instead of one, which adds a significant layer of security. I have talked to owners of determined escape-artist dogs who said the Ultima Pro was the only wire crate that held up. The divider panel is included, so it works for puppies and adults alike. The removable leak-proof pan is made from thicker plastic than the standard iCrate trays.

The tradeoff is weight. At 34 pounds, this crate is noticeably heavier than the standard 20-pound wire crates. Moving it from room to room takes more effort, and loading it into a vehicle requires two hands. But for dogs with separation anxiety, crate anxiety, or a habit of breaking out, the extra weight is a small price to pay for the security.

It still folds flat for transport and storage, and the rubber feet protect your floors. The carrying handles are built into the design. The 2,507 reviews average 4.5 stars, with the lower score compared to MidWest’s lighter crates reflecting the price and weight rather than any quality issues. For an English Setter who needs containment you can trust, this is the wire crate to get.

Is the Ultima Pro worth the extra cost over the standard iCrate?

If your English Setter is a calm, crate-trained adult who settles quietly, the standard iCrate is sufficient. The Ultima Pro earns its premium price when you have a dog who challenges the crate: pawing at the door, chewing on bars, or pushing against the walls. The thicker steel and dual-latch doors make a real difference for those situations.

Can one person set this up alone?

Yes. Despite the extra weight, the Ultima Pro uses the same fold-out design as other MidWest crates. You unfold it, clip the sides together, and drop in the pan. One person can handle it, though I recommend setting it up in the room where you plan to keep it so you do not have to move it afterward.

5. Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Double Door Dog Crate – Best Value Pick

The Sweetcrispy crate is a newer entry that has quickly climbed to the number four spot in basic dog crates, and I see why. It combines the features most English Setter owners want, double doors, thick metal mesh, a quality tray, and a collapsible design, at a price that significantly undercuts the brand-name options. For the money, this is one of the best values available.

I appreciate the attention to safety details. The edges are rounded and the corners are smooth, which matters for a breed like the English Setter that may lean against the crate walls when resting. The ABS composite tray is a step up from the standard thin plastic pans in some budget crates. It resists stains and odors better and feels more substantial when you pull it out for cleaning.

Each door has two heavy-duty sliding bolt locks, matching what you find on much more expensive crates. The double-door design gives you placement flexibility, and the open mesh construction provides excellent airflow, which matters for a thick-coated breed like the English Setter during warmer months.

At 25.9 pounds, it sits between the ultra-light budget options and the heavy-duty crates. It collapses flat for storage and sets up in minutes with no tools. Nearly 3,000 reviews with a 4.6-star average confirm that this is not a fluke. The Sweetcrispy delivers real quality at a competitive price, making it my top pick for value-conscious English Setter owners.

Is the Sweetcrispy crate durable enough for an active English Setter?

Yes. The thick metal mesh construction holds up well under normal use. The two bolt locks per door provide solid security. It is not in the same class as the Ultima Pro for extreme escape artists, but for the vast majority of English Setters, it provides more than enough durability and security.

Does it include a divider panel?

The product listing does not emphasize a divider panel, so if you are crate training a puppy, check the current listing carefully or consider the MidWest iCrate or Amazon Basics, which both include dividers. For adult English Setters, the Sweetcrispy works great as-is.

6. MidWest iCrate Starter Kit – Best All-in-One Bundle

If you are bringing home an English Setter puppy and want everything in one box, the MidWest Starter Kit is the smartest purchase you can make. Instead of buying the crate, a bed, food and water bowls, and a cover separately, this bundle includes all of it. The crate itself is the same trusted iCrate double-door design, but the accessories push this to the top of my recommendation list for first-time Setter owners.

The included fleece bed gives your Setter a comfortable surface right away, which helps make the crate feel like a positive space rather than a bare cage. The polyester privacy cover attaches with hook-and-loop tabs and creates a den-like atmosphere that can help anxious dogs settle down faster. For English Setters, who can be sensitive and respond well to a cozy, enclosed space, this cover makes a noticeable difference.

The two Snap’y Fit stainless steel bowls attach directly to the crate wire, which keeps them from tipping over and creating messes. This is especially useful for puppies who like to play with their bowls. The divider panel is included, so you can start with a smaller space for a young puppy and expand as the dog grows into a full-size adult English Setter.

With a 4.8-star rating across nearly 14,000 reviews, this is one of the highest-rated crate products on the market. The few complaints center on the cover being thin for dogs who chew and stickers on the bowls being stubborn to remove. These are minor issues compared to the convenience and value of getting everything you need in one package.

What does the starter kit include?

The kit comes with the 36-inch double-door iCrate, a divider panel, a removable fleece bed, a polyester privacy cover, and two 1-quart Snap’y Fit stainless steel bowls that clip onto the crate wires. Everything arrives in a single box and the crate itself sets up in under five minutes with no tools.

Is the fleece bed machine washable?

Yes, the fleece bed is machine washable, which is essential for a breed that sheds moderately and may have the occasional accident during training. I recommend washing it on a gentle cycle and air drying to maintain the softness and shape over time.

7. VERIFURTY Heavy Duty Dog Crate – Best Escape-Proof Crate

The VERIFURTY is in a different category from the wire crates above. This is a heavy-duty steel tube kennel designed for dogs who destroy standard crates, and it is the most escape-proof option in this roundup. If your English Setter has severe separation anxiety, has bent wire bars, or has escaped from every crate you have tried, this is the one that will hold.

The self-locking latch is the standout feature. You push the door gently and it locks automatically, with no manual latching required. The 3mm-thick stainless steel latch resists impact and wear, and the secondary escape-proof mechanism adds another layer of security. English Setters are smart, athletic dogs, and some individuals genuinely need this level of containment.

Despite weighing 153 pounds, the included casters make it possible to roll the crate around your home. The double-door design gives you front and side access, and the removable bottom panels make cleaning easier than you might expect from a crate this solid. Assembly takes about 20 minutes with the upgraded design that uses fewer screws than older models.

The scratch-resistant non-toxic coating holds up to daily use, and the steel tube construction means there are no wire bars for a determined dog to bend or break. The 162 reviews average 4.7 stars, with owners specifically praising how the self-locking mechanism stops escape attempts that worked on other crates. This is a serious piece of equipment for serious containment needs.

Is this crate suitable for everyday use or just extreme cases?

It works for both, but I would recommend it primarily for English Setters who have proven they can escape or damage standard wire crates. For a calm, crate-trained adult, a wire crate is simpler and lighter. The VERIFURTY shines when you need maximum security and peace of mind.

Can you remove the casters if you do not want the crate to move?

Yes, the casters can be removed. Some owners prefer to keep them on for occasional cleaning access, while others remove them for a more stable, permanent setup. The casters do lock in place, so even with them attached, the crate stays put on hard floors.

8. Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Best Airline-Approved Crate

If you plan to fly with your English Setter, the Petmate Vari Kennel is the practical choice. It meets most airline cargo specifications and has the features specifically designed for air travel that wire crates simply cannot offer. The durable plastic shell is easy to wipe down, and the enclosed design gives your dog a secure, den-like feeling during the stress of travel.

The four-sided ventilation is essential for a thick-coated breed like the English Setter. Unlike some plastic kennels that only have vents on two sides, the Vari Kennel allows cross-ventilation that keeps air moving. The stay-dry moat system directs any fluids away from where your dog is lying, which is a thoughtful feature for longer trips.

Assembly is straightforward. The top and bottom halves connect with enclosed thumbscrews, no tools required. The wire door has an easy-open latch, and there are tamper-proof holes for zip ties, which many airlines require for added security during cargo transport. For English Setter owners who travel, compete in field trials, or need to transport their dog by air, this kennel checks all the boxes.

The 7,545 reviews average 4.5 stars. The main complaints relate to the interior dimensions being slightly narrower than the exterior measurements suggest, and the curved interior not accommodating standard flat crate mats. I recommend measuring your English Setter’s length and height before ordering to confirm the 32.5 x 22.2 x 26-inch interior is sufficient.

Does this meet airline requirements for cargo travel?

The Petmate Vari Kennel meets most airline cargo specifications, including the required four-sided ventilation, secure door latch, and tamper-proof holes for zip ties. Always check with your specific airline before travel, as requirements can vary, but this kennel is designed to comply with standard cargo regulations.

Can I use this as a daily home crate too?

You can, but I would not recommend it as a primary home crate for an English Setter. The enclosed plastic design limits visibility and airflow compared to a wire crate, and there is no divider panel for puppy training. It is best used as a dedicated travel kennel or as a secondary crate for trips and vet visits.

9. Amazon Basics Soft Dog Crate – Best Portable Travel Crate

The Amazon Basics soft crate is the lightest option in this roundup by far, and for English Setter owners who travel, camp, or need a crate for hotel stays, it is a game-changer. At under 8 pounds, you can carry it with one hand, and it sets up in seconds with no tools or assembly. Just unzip the carrying case, unfold it, and it is ready.

The double-door design gives you both a front entry and a top entry, which is surprisingly useful. The top door makes it easy to reach in and comfort your dog or drop in a treat without opening the main door. Mesh windows on all four sides provide excellent ventilation, which is important for a breed with a dense coat that runs warm.

The key limitation is that this crate is designed for crate-trained dogs only. If your English Setter chews, scratches at enclosures, or has anxiety that leads to destructive behavior, the fabric sides will not hold. This is not a training tool. It is a portable containment solution for a dog that already sees the crate as a safe, comfortable space.

With nearly 19,000 reviews and a 4.3-star rating, this is one of the most popular soft crates on the market. Owners specifically praise it for car rides, camping trips, hotel rooms, and outdoor events. For a well-trained English Setter, it provides a familiar, comfortable space away from home. Just do not expect it to contain a determined escape artist.

Is this crate suitable for car travel?

Yes, for calm, crate-trained English Setters, this soft crate works well in the back of an SUV or large car. It is not crash-rated, so it should not be your only safety measure in a vehicle. For road trips and camping where your dog needs a familiar space at your destination, it is ideal.

Can I wash the fabric?

The polyester fabric can be spot-cleaned and the bottom tray is removable for washing. It is not machine washable as a whole unit. For most English Setter owners, a quick wipe-down after trips keeps it in good condition. I recommend laying a washable crate pad inside for easier maintenance.

10. EasyCom Dog Crate Furniture – Best Furniture-Style Crate

The EasyCom furniture crate is for the English Setter owner who refuses to let a dog crate clash with their home decor. This piece functions as an end table, side table, or nightstand while housing your dog in a comfortable enclosure. The rustic brown wood finish blends with most interior styles, and the spacious top surface holds plants, books, lamps, or decorative items.

The best part is that there is zero assembly. You take it out of the box, unfold it, and it is ready. The 0.47-inch diameter steel tubes inside the frame provide real durability, and the reinforced base with steel bars supports dogs up to 100 pounds without sagging. This is not a decorative toy; it is a functional crate disguised as furniture.

The included accessories are a nice touch. Two adjustable stainless steel bowls rotate 360 degrees, so you can position them where your Setter prefers. A personalized name tag is also included. The FSC-certified wood panels are an environmentally responsible choice that adds to the quality feel of this product.

At 41 inches wide, this crate is slightly larger than the standard 36-inch wire crates, giving your English Setter a bit more room. The 519 reviews average 4.6 stars, with owners loving the aesthetic transformation of what is normally an eyesore into an attractive piece of furniture. If your Setter is crate-trained and you want to integrate the crate into your living space, this is the way to do it.

Will a 36-inch crate pad fit inside this crate?

Since the EasyCom crate is 41 inches wide internally, a standard 36-inch crate pad will fit but may leave gaps on the sides. I recommend looking for a larger pad or using a custom-cut mat that fills the full interior width for maximum comfort.

Is the latch secure enough for an English Setter?

The latch works well for dogs who accept the crate willingly. Some owners have noted that the latch mechanism feels less substantial than the dual bolt locks on wire crates. For a calm, crate-trained English Setter, it is perfectly adequate. For a dog who pushes on doors or tries to escape, a wire crate with slide-bolt latches would be more secure.

11. MidWest Ovation Single Door Crate – Best Space-Saving Design

The MidWest Ovation solves a problem most crate owners do not think about until they trip over an open crate door for the tenth time: the door sticks out into the room. The Ovation’s patented Up and Away door lifts vertically and stows on top of the crate, like a garage door. For English Setter owners with smaller homes, apartments, or tight spaces, this design is a genuine quality-of-life improvement.

I like this crate for placement in hallways, narrow rooms, or any spot where a swinging door creates an obstacle. When the door is up and stowed, your English Setter can walk in and out freely without you needing to manage a door that swings into your shin. The steel channel track holds the door securely when it is closed, and the low threshold makes it easy for your dog to step inside.

The divider panel is included, making this a solid choice for puppy training. You can start your English Setter puppy in a smaller space and expand as they grow. The leak-proof plastic pan slides out for cleaning, and the rubber feet protect your floors from scratches.

The 2,101 reviews average 4.5 stars, with most of the lower ratings related to the door mechanism itself. Some owners find the sliding action stiff at first, and the safety latch requires a specific motion that takes practice. If you have arthritis or limited hand strength, this may not be the easiest crate to operate. But for the space-saving benefit alone, many English Setter owners consider it worthwhile.

How does the garage door mechanism work?

The door slides up along a steel channel track on the front of the crate and rests on top when open. To close it, you pull the door back down along the track until it seats in the bottom frame. There is a safety latch that secures the door in the closed position. It takes a few tries to get the hang of the motion, but once you do, it becomes second nature.

Is this crate good for an apartment?

Yes, the Ovation is one of the best crates for apartment living. The space-saving door design means you do not need clearance in front of the crate for a swinging door. It folds flat for storage when not in use, and the 36-inch size fits comfortably in most apartment rooms without dominating the space.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Crate for Your English Setter

Picking the right crate comes down to understanding your specific English Setter and your living situation. Here is what I consider the most important factors when recommending a crate for this breed.

Crate Size: Why 36 Inches is the Sweet Spot

Most English Setters fall between 45 and 70 pounds, with a standing height around 24 to 26 inches at the shoulder. A 36-inch crate gives them enough room to stand at full height, turn around comfortably, and lie down stretched out. The breed community on Reddit consistently confirms that 36 inches works well for English Setters around 65 pounds.

If you have a larger male Setter pushing 75 to 80 pounds, consider moving up to a 42-inch crate. For puppies, always buy the adult size and use a divider panel to shrink the space. Puppies given too much room will eliminate in one corner and sleep in another, which undermines house training completely.

Wire vs Plastic vs Soft-Sided: Which Material?

Wire crates are the most popular choice for English Setters, and I agree with that consensus. They offer the best airflow, which matters for a thick-coated breed. Your dog can see out from all sides, reducing anxiety and making the crate feel less isolating. Wire crates also include divider panels for puppy training, which plastic and soft-sided options typically do not.

Plastic kennels like the Petmate Vari Kennel are the right call for air travel and car trips where you need an enclosed, airline-compliant container. They are also useful for vet visits and situations where you need a portable, enclosed space.

Soft-sided crates work well for travel, camping, and hotel stays, but only for crate-trained dogs. An English Setter that chews or scratches at enclosures will destroy a soft crate quickly. Think of soft crates as portable bedrooms for well-behaved dogs, not training tools.

Divider Panels: Essential for Puppies

If you are crate training an English Setter puppy, a divider panel is non-negotiable. Puppies grow fast, and you need to adjust the crate size as they develop. A divider lets you start small and expand gradually. Without one, you either buy multiple crates or deal with a puppy that has too much space and uses part of it as a bathroom.

Among the crates in this guide, the MidWest iCrate, Amazon Basics, Ultima Pro, Ovation, and Starter Kit all include divider panels. The New World crate and Sweetcrispy do not include one, so plan accordingly.

Double Door vs Single Door

Double-door crates give you placement flexibility that single-door models cannot match. If you want to position the crate against a wall, in a corner, or under a counter, the side door provides access without needing to pull the entire crate away from the wall. For most English Setter owners, I recommend double doors unless you have a specific reason to prefer a single door like the Ovation’s space-saving design.

Durability Considerations for English Setters

English Setters are generally not destructive by nature, but they are athletic, intelligent, and energetic. Some individuals develop separation anxiety, especially if left alone for long periods. If your Setter shows signs of anxiety or escape behavior, investing in a heavy-duty option like the Ultima Pro or VERIFURTY will save you money in the long run compared to replacing bent wire crates.

For the typical calm, well-exercised English Setter, a standard wire crate with slide-bolt latches is more than sufficient. The key is making the crate a positive space through proper training, which brings me to the next point.

Quick Crate Training Tips for English Setters

English Setters respond well to positive reinforcement, and crate training is no exception. Start by placing treats and meals inside the crate with the door open. Let your Setter explore at their own pace. Gradually increase the time the door stays closed, starting with just a few seconds and building up to longer periods.

Never use the crate as punishment. Your English Setter should see the crate as their personal den, a safe and comfortable space. Use a consistent command like “kennel” or “bed” every time, and reward calm behavior inside. With patience, most English Setters accept the crate within a few weeks and will voluntarily retreat to it for naps.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best dog crate for English Setters comes down to matching the crate to your dog’s temperament and your lifestyle. For most owners, the MidWest iCrate Double Door or the Starter Kit bundle hits the right balance of size, durability, features, and value. The 36-inch size is the right call for the vast majority of English Setters, and the included divider panel makes either option work from puppyhood through adulthood.

If your Setter is an escape artist or has anxiety, step up to the Ultima Pro or the VERIFURTY for serious containment. For travel, the Petmate Vari Kennel handles airline requirements, and the Amazon Basics soft crate is perfect for road trips with a crate-trained dog. And if you want the crate to look like part of your home, the EasyCom furniture crate delivers on both style and function.

Take the time to measure your English Setter before ordering, invest in proper crate training from day one, and your dog will come to see the crate as their own comfortable space. The right crate makes life better for both of you, and any of the 11 options in this guide will serve you well when chosen for the right reasons.