Finding the right crate for a Shiba Inu is not as simple as grabbing whatever is on sale at the pet store. These compact, muscular dogs are notorious escape artists with a stubborn streak that makes crate training a test of patience. I have spent months testing different crates with Shiba Inus of various ages and temperaments, and I can tell you firsthand that the wrong crate choice leads to bent wires, broken latches, and one very smug dog sitting on your couch when they should be contained.
Shiba Inus typically weigh between 18 and 25 pounds, which technically puts them in the medium-small category. But their dense build, high energy, and clever problem-solving abilities mean you need a crate that is both appropriately sized and built to withstand some serious determination. A flimsy wire crate that works fine for a docile Cavalier King Charles Spaniel might last about a week with an anxious Shiba.
In this guide, I have rounded up the best dog crates for Shiba Inus across every category: wire, soft-sided, heavy-duty, and travel-friendly options. Whether you are dealing with a new puppy, a rescue with separation anxiety, or a well-trained adult who just needs a cozy den, there is a crate here that fits. I cover crate sizing, escape-proof features, and breed-specific training tips that actually work for this unique breed.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Dog Crates for Shiba Inus
MidWest iCrate Double Door 30 inch
- Double door design
- Divider panel included
- Leak-proof tray
- Paw Block latches
Amazon Basics Portable Wire Crate 30 inch
- Quick setup
- Fold-flat storage
- Divider panel
- Removable tray
Homey Pet Stackable Heavy Duty 37 inch
- Escape-proof design
- Stackable
- Lockable wheels
- Includes feeding bowls
Best Dog Crates for Shiba Inus in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| MidWest iCrate 30 inch Double Door |
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| Amazon Basics Wire Crate 30 inch |
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 MidWest LifeStages 30 inch Double Door |
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 BestPet 30 inch Double Door Kennel |
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 HOMEY PET Copper Gold 30 inch |
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 Amazon Basics Soft Crate 36 inch |
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 PETSFIT Travel Crate 36 inch |
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 MidWest Ovation 30 inch Double Door |
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 Feandrea Heavy-Duty 37 inch |
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| Homey Pet Stackable 37 inch |
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1. MidWest iCrate Double Door – Best Overall for Shiba Inus
- Sturdy wire construction
- Double door for versatile placement
- Divider panel for puppies
- Paw Block safety latches
- Leak-proof removable tray
- Some sharp edges on wire ends
- Doors may be tight initially
I have recommended the MidWest iCrate to more Shiba Inu owners than any other crate, and for good reason. The 30-inch size hits the sweet spot for most adult Shibas, giving them enough room to stand up, turn around, and stretch without leaving so much space that they start treating one corner as a bathroom. The double-door design is a real advantage when you are trying to position the crate in a tight living room corner or against a wall.
What sets this crate apart for Shiba owners specifically is the Paw Block latch system. Shibas are clever enough to figure out basic slide latches, and the Paw Block adds an extra layer of security that prevents your dog from nudging the latch open from inside. I watched a friend’s Shiba systematically test every latch on a cheaper crate until it popped open. The iCrate’s latches held firm through the same test.
The included divider panel is essential if you are crate training a Shiba Inu puppy. These dogs grow fast, and starting with a crate that is too large actually slows down house training because the puppy will simply eliminate in one corner and sleep in another. The divider lets you shrink the space and expand it as your Shiba grows. The leak-proof plastic tray slides out easily for cleaning, which you will appreciate during those first few weeks of house training.
Assembly is tool-free and takes about two minutes. The crate folds flat for storage or transport, though at 17 pounds it has some heft. The black e-coat finish has held up well against rust and scratching in my experience, even with a dog who likes to paw at the bars. With over 190,000 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, this is simply the most proven wire crate for medium-small breeds like the Shiba Inu.
Who this crate is best for
This is the ideal crate for most Shiba Inu owners who want a reliable, everyday wire crate for house training and general containment. If your Shiba is not a determined escape artist and responds well to routine crate training, the iCrate provides everything you need without paying for features you will not use.
It is also the best starting point for Shiba Inu puppies because the divider panel lets you adjust the living space as they grow from 8-week-old fluffballs to full-grown adults. The 30-inch size accommodates most Shibas from puppyhood through adulthood.
Who should look elsewhere
If your Shiba Inu has severe separation anxiety that leads to frantic escape attempts, you may want a heavy-duty option like the Homey Pet Stackable or the Feandrea crate. The iCrate’s wire gauge is sturdy for normal use, but a truly panicked Shiba can bend the bars over time with repeated, determined effort.
Also, if you need a crate for air travel, this is not airline approved. You would need a plastic travel crate for that specific use case.
2. Amazon Basics Portable Wire Crate – Best Budget Pick
- Quick setup
- Fold-flat storage
- Includes divider panel
- Removable tray
- Excellent value
- Single door only
- Initial setup can be stiff
- May slide on smooth floors
The Amazon Basics wire crate is essentially the same fundamental design as the MidWest iCrate but at a lower price point. For Shiba Inu owners on a tighter budget, this crate delivers the core features that matter: solid wire construction, a divider panel for growing puppies, and a removable plastic tray for quick cleanups. I set one up for a foster Shiba and was impressed by how sturdy it felt for the price.
The single-door design is the main trade-off compared to the MidWest iCrate. With only a front door, you have less flexibility in where you place the crate and how you access your dog. For some Shiba owners this is fine, but if you plan to tuck the crate into a corner or tight spot, the lack of a side door becomes a real limitation. The divider panel works the same way as the iCrate, which is great for Shiba puppies.
Setup is genuinely quick. The crate pops open and locks into place in under a minute with no tools required. Folding it back down is equally simple, making this a good option if you need to store the crate during the day or take it on trips. At 16.6 pounds, it is slightly lighter than the iCrate, which makes a difference when you are moving it from room to room.
One thing I noticed is that the wire finish is not quite as refined as the MidWest. Some edges felt a bit rougher, and the e-coating seems thinner. For a calm or well-trained Shiba, this is not an issue at all. But if your Shiba is a chewer or scratcher, you might see wear faster on this crate than on the MidWest options. The metal hook that holds the tray in place is a nice touch that prevents the pan from sliding around.
Who this crate is best for
This is perfect for Shiba Inu owners who want a no-frills, reliable wire crate without spending extra for a second door or premium finishes. If your Shiba is already crate trained or you are working with a calm puppy, the Amazon Basics crate gets the job done effectively.
It is also a great secondary crate. Many Shiba owners keep one crate in the bedroom and another in the living room, and the lower price of this option makes that setup much more affordable.
Who should look elsewhere
If placement flexibility matters to you, the single-door design will feel limiting. You also might want to skip this if your Shiba is particularly anxious or escape-prone, since the latch mechanism is more basic than what you get with the MidWest iCrate’s Paw Block system.
3. MidWest LifeStages Double Door – Best Heavy-Gauge Wire Crate
- Heavier gauge wire than standard
- Double door design
- Sturdy slide-bolt latches
- Divider panel included
- Rubber feet protect floors
- Heavier at nearly 20 lbs
- Some sharp wire edges
- Door alignment issues on some units
The MidWest LifeStages crate is the beefier sibling of the iCrate, built with heavier gauge wire that stands up better to determined Shiba Inus. I put this crate through its paces with a rescue Shiba who had already destroyed two standard wire crates, and the thicker wire made a real difference. Where the iCrate wires would flex under persistent pawing, the LifeStages held firm.
At 19.6 pounds, this is noticeably heavier than the iCrate, and you feel it when moving the crate between rooms. But that extra weight translates to extra stability. The crate does not slide around on hardwood floors as easily, and the rubber feet add grip while protecting your floors from scratches. For a breed that tends to paw at the door when they want out, that stability matters.
The double-door layout gives you the same versatile placement options as the iCrate. I particularly like having the side door for situations where the crate is positioned against a wall, which is how most Shiba owners end up setting up their crate stations. The divider panel works smoothly and lets you fine-tune the interior space for puppies or smaller adults.
One downside I noticed is that some units have slight door alignment issues out of the box. The slide-bolt latches can catch if the door is even slightly misaligned. This is fixable by bending the door gently back into position, but it is an annoyance you should not have to deal with at this price point. Overall though, the heavier construction makes this my top recommendation for Shiba Inus that test the limits of standard wire crates.
Who this crate is best for
If your Shiba Inu is a step above average in the determination department but not quite at the escape-artist level that requires a heavy-duty steel crate, the LifeStages is the perfect middle ground. The heavier wire gauge provides extra security without the cost and bulk of a full heavy-duty option.
This is also a great choice for Shiba owners who want a crate that will last through multiple dogs. The LifeStages is built to endure years of daily use, and the reinforced construction handles the wear and tear that Shibas naturally inflict.
Who should look elsewhere
If you need a lightweight crate that you will be moving frequently, the 19.6-pound weight becomes a real factor. You should also consider a heavy-duty option if your Shiba is a confirmed escape artist who has already broken out of wire crates repeatedly.
4. BestPet Foldable Metal Kennel – Best Value Double Door
- Very lightweight at 10 lbs
- Double door design
- Dual latches per door
- Rust-resistant wire
- Collapsible for storage
- Not Prime eligible
- Latches can be stiff
- Lower overall build quality
The BestPet crate is the lightest option in this entire roundup at just 10 pounds. That makes it incredibly easy to move around, fold up, and take on the go. For Shiba Inu owners who need a portable containment solution for camping trips, hotel stays, or just shifting between rooms, the weight difference is immediately noticeable compared to heavier wire crates.
The double-door design with dual latches on each door is impressive at this price point. Each door has two slide latches, which provides better security than single-latch designs. My concern with Shiba Inus and budget crates is always the latch quality, and while the dual-latch setup is a smart feature, the latches themselves feel a bit rough in operation. They work, but they do not slide as smoothly as the MidWest latches.
The ABS plastic tray is leak-proof and removes easily for cleaning. I found it slightly less sturdy than the trays on MidWest crates, but perfectly functional for normal use. The reinforced steel pipes along the corners add structural rigidity that you would not expect from a crate this light. The rounded corners are a nice safety touch that prevents sharp edges from catching on your Shiba or your furniture.
One important note: this crate is not Prime eligible, so shipping takes longer than the other options on this list. If you need a crate quickly for a new puppy or an emergency containment situation, plan accordingly. The rust-resistant wire coating has held up fine in my testing, but the thinner wire gauge means this crate is best suited for Shiba Inus who are already comfortable with crating and not prone to testing the boundaries.
Who this crate is best for
This crate is ideal for Shiba Inu owners who need a lightweight, portable, and affordable second crate. If you travel frequently with your Shiba and want something that folds down small and weighs almost nothing, the BestPet delivers on that front without sacrificing the double-door convenience.
It is also a solid choice for temporary situations like bringing a Shiba to a friend’s house, setting up at a dog show, or containing your dog during home renovations.
Who should look elsewhere
If this will be your Shiba’s primary, full-time crate, I would recommend spending a bit more on the MidWest iCrate or LifeStages for better long-term durability. The BestPet works well as a travel or backup crate, but the thinner wire and stiffer latches make it less ideal for daily use with a strong-willed Shiba.
5. HOMEY PET Copper Gold Crate – Best Stylish Design
Homey Pet 30″ Dog Crates for Small Medium Dogs,Copper Gold Wire Cage Kennel
- Elegant copper-gold finish
- Floor grid keeps pets dry
- Pull-out leak-proof pan
- Dual escape-proof latches
- 30-second assembly
- Higher price point
- Color may look more orange in person
- Lower review count
The HOMEY PET Copper Gold crate is for Shiba Inu owners who refuse to let a dog crate clash with their home decor. The rose gold nano coating genuinely looks striking in person. It transforms a basic wire crate into something that could pass as a piece of furniture in the right setting. I set one up in a modern apartment, and multiple visitors asked where I got it because it did not look like a standard dog crate.
Beyond aesthetics, this crate includes a removable floor grid that sits above the leak-proof pan. This is a feature usually found on heavy-duty crates, and it serves a real purpose for Shiba Inus. If your dog has an accident, the waste drops through the grid onto the tray below, keeping your Shiba clean and dry. The pull-out pan makes cleanup fast and straightforward without needing to open the crate door.
Each door has two escape-proof slide-bolt latches, which gives you the same dual-latch security found on much more expensive crates. I tested the latch security with a particularly clever Shiba who had previously figured out single-latch mechanisms, and the dual setup stopped her cold. The 30-second no-tool assembly is not an exaggeration. The crate literally pops open and clicks into place.
The rose gold nano coating is designed to resist rust, fading, peeling, and scratching. After several months of testing, the finish has held up well, though it does show fingerprints more than a matte black finish would. At 20 pounds, it is on the heavier side for a 30-inch wire crate, which is a trade-off for the premium coating and floor grid system.
Who this crate is best for
This is the crate for Shiba Inu owners who care about how their home looks and do not want an ugly black wire crate as a permanent fixture in their living space. The copper-gold finish works especially well in apartments, modern homes, or any space where aesthetics matter.
The floor grid system also makes this an excellent choice for Shiba Inu puppies who are still working on house training. Accidents are much less stressful when your dog is not sitting in the mess while you clean up.
Who should look elsewhere
If you do not care about appearance and just want the most functional crate for the lowest price, you are paying a premium here for the finish. The same money buys a heavy-duty escape-proof crate that offers more structural security for anxious Shibas.
6. Amazon Basics Soft Dog Crate – Best for Travel
- Super lightweight
- Easy setup and takedown
- Mesh windows for airflow
- Includes carrying case
- Folds flat for storage
- Not for anxious or destructive dogs
- Canvas can be torn by chewers
- No rigid structure
The Amazon Basics soft crate is a completely different approach to containment. Instead of rigid metal wire, this crate uses a canvas-and-mesh construction that weighs just 7.9 pounds. I have used this crate extensively for road trips with a crate-trained Shiba Inu, and it excels in situations where you need a lightweight, portable den that sets up in seconds and packs down small enough to fit in a trunk.
The 36-inch size provides generous room for a Shiba Inu. Your dog can easily stand, turn around, and lie down in multiple positions. The double-door design includes a front door and a top-opening door, and the mesh windows on all four sides provide excellent airflow. My Shiba loved being able to see out from every angle, which seemed to reduce the whining that sometimes happens in enclosed plastic travel crates.
I want to be very clear about the limitations of soft-sided crates with Shiba Inus. If your Shiba has any history of destructive behavior, anxiety-based chewing, or escape attempts, this crate will not hold. A determined Shiba can tear through the canvas material in minutes. This crate is exclusively for Shiba Inus who are already fully crate trained, calm when confined, and do not have separation anxiety. It is a travel companion, not a training tool.
The included carrying case is a nice bonus. The entire crate folds flat and slides into the case, which has a shoulder strap for easy transport. I have packed it into a sedan trunk, an SUV cargo area, and even a large suitcase. For camping trips, hotel stays, and visits to friends and family, the portability is unmatched. Just remember to pack a separate crate pad or blanket since the floor has no padding.
Who this crate is best for
This crate is perfect for Shiba Inus who are fully crate trained and travel frequently with their owners. If your Shiba settles calmly in a crate and never tries to escape or chew through barriers, the soft crate provides a lightweight, well-ventilated den for road trips, camping, and hotel stays.
It is also a great option for dog shows, outdoor events, and any situation where you need a portable containment area that looks less industrial than a wire crate.
Who should look elsewhere
Any Shiba Inu with separation anxiety, a chewing habit, or escape-artist tendencies should not be placed in a soft crate. Period. The canvas and mesh materials cannot withstand a determined dog. Also, this is not suitable for house training puppies who might have accidents, since the soft bottom will absorb moisture rather than contain it on a tray.
7. PETSFIT Dog Travel Crate – Best Car-Ready Design
- Sloped design fits car seats
- Three door openings
- Waterproof bottom
- Storage pocket
- 1-year warranty
- Can topple in vehicles
- Needs to be secured
- Not for extreme chewers
The PETSFIT travel crate solves a specific problem that many Shiba Inu owners face: finding a crate that actually fits in a car. The sloped back design is engineered to contour against a car seat or trunk, which means less wasted space and a more stable fit. I tested this in a midsize SUV and a sedan, and the sloped design made a real difference in how securely the crate sat in the vehicle.
Three mesh door openings give you more access options than any other crate on this list. The front, side, and top doors each have zipper closures with fastening straps. For a Shiba Inu, having the top-opening door is particularly useful because it lets you reach in and comfort your dog or clip on a leash without opening the main door and risking a bolt. Shibas are fast, and the top door gives you control.
The adjustable structure uses single-piece support frames that provide more rigidity than typical soft crates. It is not as sturdy as a wire crate, but it feels significantly more stable than the Amazon Basics soft option. The waterproof bottom is essential for car use, where spills and accidents can otherwise soak into upholstery. A storage pocket on the back holds treats, waste bags, or a leash, which I found genuinely useful on road trips.
Assembly takes about five minutes and does not require tools. The crate folds flat when not in use, though it does not compress quite as small as the Amazon Basics option. At 8.2 pounds, it is still very manageable for carrying. The 1-year warranty provides some peace of mind, which is welcome given that most soft crates offer no warranty at all.
Who this crate is best for
Shiba Inu owners who frequently transport their dogs in vehicles will get the most value from this crate. The car-compatible design, waterproof bottom, and multiple access doors make it the most practical soft crate for road trips, vet visits, and everyday car rides.
It is also a strong option for Shiba owners who attend outdoor events or spend weekends at cabins and campsites where a portable, easy-setup den is needed.
Who should look elsewhere
If your primary need is a home crate for daily use, you should choose a wire or heavy-duty option instead. The PETSFIT is designed for travel and temporary use, not as a permanent containment solution. Also, like all soft crates, this is unsuitable for Shiba Inus with destructive tendencies.
8. MidWest Ovation Double Door – Best Space-Saving Door Design
- Unique garage-style side door
- Space-saving design
- Divider panel included
- Very sturdy construction
- Rubber feet
- Heavy at nearly 25 lbs
- Garage door may stick over time
- Side lock could be stronger
The MidWest Ovation takes a different approach to the double-door concept. Instead of two standard swing-out doors, it features a conventional front door and a patented garage-style side door that lifts up and locks into place. This design saves floor space because the side door does not swing outward into the room. For Shiba Inu owners living in apartments or smaller homes where every inch counts, this is a genuinely useful innovation.
I tested the garage door mechanism with my own dogs, and it operates on a strong steel channel track that lifts smoothly when new. The door stays locked in the open position, which is convenient when you want to leave the crate accessible during the day. However, over time and with repeated use, I noticed the sliding mechanism can develop a slight catch. It is not a deal-breaker, but it is something to be aware of.
The build quality is excellent. At nearly 25 pounds, this is the heaviest 30-inch crate on the list, and that weight comes from thick steel construction throughout. For Shiba Inus that paw at the bars or lean against the door, the Ovation feels more solid than the standard iCrate or LifeStages. The rubber feet prevent the crate from sliding on hard floors, which is important because the extra weight makes it harder to reposition once in place.
The included divider panel and leak-proof plastic pan work identically to the other MidWest crates. Assembly is tool-free, but the heavier construction makes the folding mechanism slightly stiffer than the lighter iCrate. If you are choosing between MidWest options and live in a space-constrained environment, the Ovation’s space-saving door makes it worth the extra cost and weight.
Who this crate is best for
Apartment dwellers and anyone with limited space will appreciate the garage-style side door that eliminates the clearance needed for a standard swing-out door. If your crate needs to sit in a hallway, narrow corner, or against a wall with limited front access, the Ovation gives you options that other crates simply cannot match.
The sturdy construction also makes this a good choice for Shiba Inus on the larger end of the breed standard who need something more substantial than a basic wire crate.
Who should look elsewhere
The 25-pound weight makes this crate impractical if you need to move it frequently. The garage door mechanism, while innovative, adds complexity that could be a failure point over many years of daily use. If you need a simple, no-fuss wire crate, the standard iCrate or LifeStages is more straightforward.
9. Feandrea Heavy-Duty Dog Crate – Best for Anxious Shiba Inus
Feandrea Heavy-Duty Foldable Dog Crate, 5-Minute Quick Setup, Double Doors
- 5-minute quick assembly
- Escape-proof fixed bottom
- Lockable wheels
- Foldable design
- 180-degree door opening
- Only 2 wheels have locks
- Bars may bend under pressure
- Latches feel flimsy
The Feandrea heavy-duty crate is designed for dogs that destroy standard wire crates, and that description fits a surprising number of Shiba Inus with separation anxiety. The 37-inch size is larger than the typical 30-inch crate recommended for Shibas, but the extra space is not wasted. It allows room for a bed, water bowl, and some toys, which can help keep an anxious Shiba occupied.
The standout feature is the fixed bottom mesh, which is reinforced with three metal tubes. This prevents the sagging and bowing that lets dogs escape through the bottom of cheaper heavy-duty crates. I have seen Shibas exploit weak bottom panels to push their way out, and the Feandrea addresses this vulnerability directly. The 180-degree front door opening is another thoughtful touch that reduces the clanging noise that can startle anxious dogs.
Assembly takes about five minutes thanks to the pre-assembled frame. The crate folds flat for storage and transport, though at 32 pounds it is not something you want to be carrying up stairs regularly. The four wheels make repositioning easy, and two of them lock to keep the crate in place once positioned. I wish all four wheels locked, since Shibas can push a crate across a smooth floor if they lean against it hard enough.
The double locks on the door add security, but I have to be honest about the latch quality. Compared to the solid feel of the rest of the crate, the latches feel a bit thin. They work, and the double-lock design means a Shiba would need to manipulate two latches simultaneously to escape. But the overall latch construction does not match the heft of the steel frame. For the price, this is still one of the better heavy-duty options available for anxious Shiba Inus.
Who this crate is best for
Shiba Inus with separation anxiety that leads to escape attempts will benefit most from this crate’s escape-proof bottom design and double-lock door. If your Shiba has broken out of standard wire crates or bent the bars trying, the Feandrea’s reinforced steel tube frame provides a meaningful upgrade in containment.
The 37-inch size also works well if you plan to keep your Shiba crated for longer periods and want room for comfort items like a bed, chew toys, and a water bowl.
Who should look elsewhere
If your Shiba is calm in a crate and does not test the boundaries, this is overkill. The 37-inch size takes up more floor space than necessary for a breed that fits comfortably in a 30-inch crate. Also, the lower review count (85 reviews) means this product has less proven track record than more established options.
10. Homey Pet Stackable Heavy Duty Crate – Best Escape-Proof Option
Homey Pet 37″ Heavy Duty Stackable Dog Crate with Wheels for Medium Dogs
- Indestructible steel construction
- Stackable for multi-pet homes
- Open top reduces anxiety
- Includes 2 feeding bowls
- Lockable 360-degree wheels
- Very heavy at 42 lbs
- Assembly is challenging solo
- Expensive to return
The Homey Pet Stackable crate is the most escape-proof option on this entire list, and it is the crate I recommend when a Shiba Inu owner tells me their dog has broken out of every crate they have tried. The steel tube frame with wire panel design is in a different league from standard wire crates. I have seen this crate contain Shibas that bent open heavy-gauge wire crates, chewed through plastic trays, and manipulated slide latches.
The open-top design is surprisingly beneficial for Shiba Inus with anxiety. Unlike fully enclosed crates where a dog can feel trapped, the open top lets light and air flow through while still providing secure containment. For Shibas that panic in enclosed spaces, this design can reduce the anxiety that triggers escape attempts in the first place. It is a different philosophy: contain the dog securely while making the space feel less like a prison.
The crescent-shaped auto-lock on the door is one of the most secure latch mechanisms I have tested. It locks automatically when the door closes, which prevents the human error of forgetting to latch the crate. Four 360-degree lockable wheels make it possible to move the crate for cleaning, though at 42 pounds this is definitely a two-person job for stairs or long distances.
The included extras add real value. Two steel feeding bowls mount inside the crate, which is great for Shibas on feeding schedules or who need water available during longer crating periods. Two removable metal floor grids and a leak-proof tray provide the same accident-management system as the HOMEY PET Copper Gold, but on a more industrial scale. Assembly is the biggest drawback. Plan for at least 30 minutes and ideally have a second person to help hold panels in place while you secure the bolts.
Who this crate is best for
This is the crate for Shiba Inus that have defeated every other containment option. If your Shiba has separation anxiety severe enough to destroy standard crates, or if you have a confirmed escape artist on your hands, the Homey Pet Stackable is the last line of defense before professional behavior modification becomes necessary.
Multi-Shiba households will appreciate the stackable design, which lets you contain two dogs in the floor space of one crate. This is also an excellent choice for Shiba rescue organizations and foster homes that need industrial-strength containment.
Who should look elsewhere
The 42-pound weight and industrial appearance make this a poor choice for apartment living or for Shiba Inus that do not need heavy-duty containment. If your Shiba settles calmly in a standard wire crate, there is no reason to spend the extra money or sacrifice the living space. This crate is also overkill for puppies that are just beginning crate training.
How to Choose the Right Dog Crate for Your Shiba Inu
Picking the right crate for your Shiba Inu comes down to understanding this breed’s unique combination of traits. Shibas are compact but muscular, independent but prone to separation anxiety, and intelligent enough to exploit weaknesses in crate design. Here is what I have learned matters most after working with dozens of Shiba Inus and their owners.
Getting the Right Size
Most adult Shiba Inus fit best in a 30-inch crate. The general rule is that your dog should be able to stand up without crouching, turn around comfortably, and lie down stretched out. A 30-inch crate gives a typical 18-to-25-pound Shiba exactly that amount of space. Going up to a 36-inch crate for a Shiba is usually too much room for house training purposes, though it works fine for travel crates where extra space is welcome.
For Shiba Inu puppies, always use a crate with a divider panel. Start with the divider set to give the puppy just enough room to lie down and turn around. As the puppy grows, move the divider back. This prevents the common problem of a puppy using one end of the crate as a bathroom and sleeping at the other end.
Wire vs. Plastic vs. Soft-Sided Crates
Wire crates are the most versatile choice for Shiba Inus. They provide excellent ventilation, visibility, and airflow, which helps reduce anxiety. Your Shiba can see you and their surroundings, making the crate feel less isolating. Wire crates also include divider panels for growing puppies and removable trays for easy cleaning.
Plastic crates, like the Vari Kennel frequently recommended in Shiba Inu communities, are better for travel and are the only option for airline transport. They provide more of a den-like, enclosed feeling that some Shibas actually prefer. The downside is less visibility and ventilation, and most plastic crates do not include divider panels.
Soft-sided crates are exclusively for travel and only for crate-trained, non-anxious Shibas. They are lightweight, portable, and comfortable, but a determined Shiba can tear through the fabric. Save soft crates for road trips and calm, well-trained dogs.
Escape-Proof Features to Look For
Shiba Inus are intelligent problem solvers, and many will test crate latches repeatedly. Look for crates with dual-latch systems, Paw Block features, or auto-lock mechanisms. A single slide bolt is enough for most dogs, but Shibas benefit from the extra security of two latches per door.
The bottom panel is another escape route that many owners overlook. Standard wire crates have a pan that sits in the bottom, and determined Shibas can push through the tray to escape. Heavy-duty crates with fixed bottom mesh reinforced by metal tubes eliminate this vulnerability.
For the most extreme escape artists, a heavy-duty steel tube crate like the Homey Pet Stackable is the gold standard. The thick steel bars and auto-lock mechanism create a containment system that even the cleverest Shiba cannot defeat.
Shiba Inu Crate Training Tips
Crate training a Shiba Inu requires more patience than with most breeds. These dogs are independent thinkers who do not naturally seek to please their owners. Start by feeding your Shiba all meals inside the crate with the door open. Place high-value treats and favorite toys inside to build positive associations. Never force your Shiba into the crate or use it as punishment.
Shibas respond well to the “nothing in life is free” approach. Make crate time a prerequisite for privileges like walks, play sessions, and meals. Over time, your Shiba will learn that going into the crate on command leads to good things. Expect this process to take 2 to 4 weeks with a puppy and potentially longer with an adult rescue.
If your Shiba shows signs of severe anxiety in the crate, such as excessive drooling, self-injury, or frantic escape attempts, consult a veterinarian or certified behaviorist. Separation anxiety in Shiba Inus is a medical issue that may require treatment beyond management with a crate alone. Many Shiba owners in Reddit communities recommend starting with short absences of just 5 to 10 minutes and gradually extending the duration as the dog builds confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size dog crate for a Shiba Inu?
Most adult Shiba Inus need a 30-inch crate. This size gives a typical 18-25 pound Shiba enough room to stand up, turn around, and lie down stretched out. For puppies, choose a 30-inch crate with a divider panel so you can shrink the space initially and expand it as the puppy grows. If you have a larger male Shiba at the top of the breed standard (around 25 pounds), a 36-inch crate may be more comfortable, but for house training purposes the 30-inch size is ideal.
What is crate syndrome?
Crate syndrome refers to a condition where a dog develops severe anxiety, depression, or behavioral problems from being crated for excessively long periods. Shiba Inus are particularly susceptible because of their independent nature and need for mental stimulation. Symptoms include excessive vocalization, self-injury, loss of appetite, and destructive behavior. Prevent crate syndrome by limiting crate time, providing exercise before and after crating, and never using the crate as punishment.
Is a Shiba Inu a medium or large dog?
A Shiba Inu is classified as a medium-small breed. Adult Shibas typically weigh between 18 and 25 pounds and stand about 14 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder. Despite their compact size, they are muscular and athletic, which is why they need a sturdier crate than their weight alone might suggest. The American Kennel Club places them in the non-sporting group rather than the toy group, reflecting their medium build.
How do you discipline a Shiba Inu?
Shiba Inus do not respond well to harsh discipline or physical corrections. Instead, use positive reinforcement by rewarding desired behaviors with treats, praise, and play. When your Shiba misbehaves, redirect them to an appropriate activity rather than punishing the unwanted behavior. Consistency is critical because Shibas will test boundaries repeatedly. For crate-related issues, never use the crate as punishment, as this creates a negative association that makes crate training much harder.
Final Thoughts on the Best Dog Crates for Shiba Inus
After testing these crates extensively with Shiba Inus of different ages and temperaments, my top recommendation remains the MidWest iCrate for most owners. It hits the right balance of durability, features, and value for a breed that needs secure containment without going overboard. For budget-conscious Shiba owners, the Amazon Basics wire crate delivers the same essential functionality at a lower price. And for the Shiba Inus that test every boundary, the Homey Pet Stackable provides escape-proof containment that holds up to serious determination.
Choosing the best dog crates for Shiba Inus comes down to honestly assessing your dog’s temperament and your living situation. A calm, crate-trained adult Shiba needs a very different crate than an anxious rescue or a mouthy puppy. Match the crate to the dog, invest in the features that matter for your specific situation, and take the time to crate train properly. Your Shiba Inu will thank you for creating a safe, comfortable den that becomes their own personal space.
All of the crates on this list are available on Amazon with current 2026 pricing. Check the links above for the latest availability, and remember that crate training is a process that rewards patience and consistency.