10 Best 36 Inch Dog Crates (October 2026) Top Picks for Medium-Large Breeds

Choosing the right crate for your medium or large breed dog is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a pet owner. A 36-inch dog crate provides the ideal balance of space and security for breeds like Bulldogs, Beagles, Border Collies, and Australian Shepherds — dogs that have outgrown puppy-sized enclosures but aren’t quite ready for the largest crate sizes available. After researching dozens of options, analyzing thousands of customer reviews, and comparing features across every price point, we’ve curated the definitive guide to the best 36 inch dog crates on the market in 2026.

Whether you’re crate training a new puppy, providing a safe haven for an anxious rescue, or simply looking for a sturdy, portable enclosure for your four-legged companion, the right 36-inch crate can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll walk you through our top picks, explain what makes each one stand out, and help you find the perfect fit for your dog — and your home.

Top 3 Picks for Best 36 Inch Dog Crates in 2026

Best 36 Inch Dog Crates in 2026

1. MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate Double Door — Editor’s Choice

The MidWest iCrate 36-inch Double Door model is the gold standard that countless dog owners have trusted for over a decade. As the #1 best seller in Basic Dog Crates on Amazon with more than 114,000 reviews and a 4.7-star average rating, it has earned its reputation through sheer reliability. I’ve seen this crate recommended by trainers and veterinarians alike, and for good reason — it checks every box most dog owners need.

The double-door design is genuinely useful in real homes. Whether you need to place the crate against a wall or in a corner, having a front and side door gives you flexibility that single-door crates simply can’t match. The slide-bolt latches with the patented Paw Block ensure your dog stays secure, and the included divider panel is a game-changer for anyone crate training a growing puppy. Instead of buying multiple crates as your pup matures, you simply adjust the divider to gradually increase the space.

What sets the iCrate apart from the competition is its build quality. The durable metal wire construction with a black e-coat finish resists rust and corrosion, meaning this crate will last through years of daily use. The leak-proof plastic tray is easy to slide out and clean — a feature you’ll appreciate more with every passing month of ownership. Setup requires no tools; the crate arrives pre-assembled and unfolds in seconds.

Is the MidWest iCrate right for your dog?

If you have a medium to large breed dog in the 41-70 pound range — think Bulldogs, Beagles, Whippets, Cocker Spaniels, or similar-sized breeds — this crate is purpose-built for your companion. The 36-inch dimensions give these dogs enough room to stand up, turn around, and stretch out comfortably without wasting money on a crate designed for breeds twice their size.

What to consider before buying

The iCrate is currently showing as temporarily out of stock on Amazon. If your dog needs a crate immediately, our Best Value pick (the Amazon Basics model) offers nearly identical features at a lower price point. For most situations though, the iCrate’s proven track record and massive review base make it worth the wait.

2. Midwest Homes for Pets 36-Inch New World Crate Double Door

The New World Crate from MidWest fills a specific niche that the iCrate doesn’t — it offers the same double-door convenience and quality construction but in a slightly more refined package. With over 56,000 customer reviews backing its 4.7-star average, this crate has won the loyalty of dog owners who appreciate its thoughtful design details.

The front and side door configuration is identical to the iCrate, which means the same placement flexibility. Where the New World Crate differentiates itself is in its ventilation design — the four-sided airflow keeps your dog comfortable in warmer climates or during summer months. The precision welding and rounded corner clips are small touches that make a real difference in daily use and safety.

One consideration worth noting: the divider panel is sold separately for the New World Crate. If you’re purchasing this crate for a growing puppy, budget an extra $10-15 for the divider panel. For adult dogs who have reached their full size, this isn’t a concern at all.

Best for dog owners who…

The New World Crate is an excellent choice if you have an adult dog at its full size and appreciate the extra ventilation and refined corner details. It’s also a solid option if the iCrate is out of stock and you want a MidWest product with the same quality pedigree.

How it compares to the iCrate

These two MidWest crates share 95% of their DNA. The deciding factors come down to price, availability, and whether you need the included divider panel. If you need a crate now and the iCrate is unavailable, the New World Crate is a perfectly equivalent substitute.

3. Amazon Basics Portable, Easy to Assemble, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate — 36 inch Double Door

Amazon Basics has built a reputation for delivering reliable products at accessible price points, and this double-door dog crate is no exception. Ranking as the #2 best seller in Basic Dog Crates with over 11,000 reviews, it offers nearly everything the premium MidWest models deliver at a significantly lower price.

The double-door design gives you placement flexibility that single-door competitors simply can’t match. The divider panel is included in the box — no separate purchase required — which makes this an even better value proposition. For puppy owners, being able to start with a smaller space and gradually expand as your pup grows is an essential feature that saves money long-term.

The removable plastic base tray with its metal hook securing system is well-designed. It stays in place during cleaning but lifts out easily when you need to swap it. The top handle makes carrying the folded crate manageable, though at 22 pounds it’s not exactly featherweight.

Who should buy the Amazon Basics double-door crate

If you’re budget-conscious but don’t want to compromise on essential features, this is the crate for you. The #2 best seller ranking means thousands of other dog owners have taken the leap before you — and the review count speaks for itself. It’s particularly well-suited for dog owners who need a crate for a growing puppy (thanks to the included divider) or who want the flexibility of double-door access without the premium price tag.

A note on first-time setup

Several reviewers mentioned that initial setup required some patience as the wire connections can be slightly stiff coming out of the box. This is normal for most wire crates and resolves after the first few assembly cycles. Don’t let this dissuade you — it’s a minor inconvenience for a crate that performs this well at this price.

4. MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate Single Door

The single-door variant of the iconic MidWest iCrate strips away the double-door convenience in favor of a lower price point. If your crate placement doesn’t require side access, this model delivers the same legendary MidWest quality at the most accessible price in the iCrate family.

With over 17,000 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, this crate has accumulated an impressive body of evidence that it performs reliably in real homes across the country. The divider panel is included — the same high-quality panel that puppy owners love about the iCrate line — making this an excellent crate training solution even at the single-door price point.

The e-coat finish, leak-proof tray, and rubber feet are all present and accounted for. The slide-bolt latches with Paw Block provide secure closure. The carry handle makes transport manageable despite the 22-pound weight. The one concession to the lower price is the door design — straight sliding bars instead of the more refined latches on some premium models — but this is a minor detail that doesn’t affect daily use for most dogs.

Best when budget is the primary concern

If you’re outfitting multiple crates for a breeding program, a boarding facility, or simply need to stretch your budget as far as possible, the single-door iCrate is the workhorse choice. It delivers 90% of the double-door iCrate experience at a meaningfully lower price.

Placement considerations

Before choosing this model, visualize where your crate will live. If the crate will sit flush against a wall or in a corner with one side inaccessible, the single-door design is perfectly adequate. If you want the flexibility to access the crate from multiple angles, the double-door model is worth the modest price difference.

5. Amazon Basics Portable Metal Wire Dog Crate — 36 inch Single Door

At under $50, the Amazon Basics single-door 36-inch crate represents the absolute best value in our roundup. It undercuts most of the competition by $15-25 while delivering the same core feature set: sturdy metal wire construction, a divider panel for growing puppies, a removable leak-proof tray, and a collapsible folding design.

The #2 best seller ranking in Basic Dog Crates (shared with its double-door sibling) tells you that thousands of price-conscious dog owners have made this their crate of choice. The 4.7-star average from over 17,500 reviews confirms that the lower price hasn’t come at the cost of quality.

The single-door design and secure locking mechanism are identical to the double-door version. The metal hook that secures the removable plastic tray to the crate base works as intended and prevents the tray from sliding around during active puppy moments or excited greetings. The top handle makes folded transport manageable.

Why it earns Best Value

When a crate under $50 includes the divider panel, folds flat for storage, and has over 17,000 verified reviews with a 4.7-star rating, it’s impossible to argue against recommending it as the best value option in the 36-inch category. If you need a crate for a full-grown medium breed or a growing puppy, this model covers both bases without straining your budget.

A flooring tip

Several reviewers noted that this crate can shift on hardwood or tile floors. A simple rubber non-slip mat underneath solves this issue affordably and effectively.

6. MidWest Homes for Pets Intermediate LifeStages Double Door 36-Inch Folding Dog Crate

The MidWest LifeStages crate occupies a unique position in the MidWest lineup — it’s designed for Intermediate dogs (41-70 lbs) with enhanced security features that go beyond the standard iCrate. The slide-bolt latches include patented Paw Block technology and locking tips that make escape even more difficult for determined dogs who have figured out simpler latch mechanisms.

Ranking at #35 in Basic Dog Crates with nearly 18,000 reviews, the LifeStages has built a loyal following among owners of intelligent, curious breeds who have demonstrated a talent for crate evasion. Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, and other smart breeds that have learned to operate simple latches often do better with the enhanced Paw Block system.

The all-inclusive approach is appreciated — divider panel, leak-proof plastic pan, rubber floor-protecting feet, and a carrying handle are all included in the box. The rounded corners and proper ventilation are essential safety features that MidWest has refined over decades of crate manufacturing. Assembly takes seconds with no tools required.

Best for smart and escape-artist breeds

If you have a breed known for intelligence and problem-solving — or if you’ve had a dog who has figured out how to open crates in the past — the LifeStages enhanced security features are worth the modest price premium. The Paw Block latches are a meaningful upgrade over the standard slide-bolt design.

Quality control note

A small number of reviewers reported sharp wire ends on initial delivery. While this appears to be an isolated quality control issue rather than a systemic design flaw, it’s worth checking all wire ends and applying a quick file or sandpaper touch-up if needed for your puppy’s safety.

7. MidWest Homes for Pets Ultima Pro Heavy-Duty 36-Inch Dog Crate

The Ultima Pro represents MidWest’s pinnacle of crate engineering. If you have an anxious dog who scratches at standard wire crates, a powerful chewer who has destroyed lesser enclosures, or a large dog who needs maximum containment, this is the crate built for exactly those situations. Professional-grade steel construction with the thickest wire gauge MidWest produces sets this model apart from every other crate in their lineup.

The extra height in the medium 36-inch size is a meaningful differentiator for owners of taller breeds. Standard 36-inch crates often feel claustrophobic for dogs with long legs. The Ultima Pro’s additional vertical space accommodates taller dogs more comfortably, making it a better fit for breeds like Dalmatians, Doberman Pinschers in the lower weight range, or any medium dog with a more athletic frame.

The dual door access and secure slide-bolt latches provide the same placement flexibility as the rest of the MidWest line. The carrying handle and fold-flat design mean that despite the heavy 34-pound weight, the crate remains portable for occasional transport. The complete kit includes the divider panel and leak-proof pan — no additional purchases needed.

Who needs the Ultima Pro

This crate is purpose-built for specific situations: anxious dogs who scratch at standard wire, powerful dogs who have destroyed cheaper crates, tall dogs who need extra vertical space, or owners who simply want the most durable option available. For ordinary use with a well-behaved medium breed dog, the standard iCrate provides equivalent value at a fraction of the price and weight.

Consider the weight

At 34 pounds, the Ultima Pro is significantly heavier than standard wire crates (typically 20-27 pounds). If you need to move the crate regularly, travel with it frequently, or have mobility limitations, factor this into your decision. The extra weight contributes to its stability and durability, but it’s a real-world consideration for daily use.

8. FDW Dog Crate 36 Inch Double Door

The FDW crate delivers the core features most dog owners need at the lowest price point in our roundup — consistently available under $40. The #3 best seller ranking in Basic Dog Crates on Amazon speaks to its popularity among value-conscious dog owners who don’t need premium features.

The 20-second assembly is one of the FDW’s standout claims, and based on the pattern of reviews, it appears to be accurate for most users. The pre-attached parts design means less fumbling with loose components compared to some competitors. The double-door design provides the same placement flexibility as premium models at a fraction of the cost.

The divider panel for growing puppies and the leak-proof removable tray are both included — the same features that justify the higher prices on MidWest models. The rust-resistant metal wire construction holds up well under normal use conditions. At 22 pounds, the weight is manageable for most dog owners.

Best for well-behaved dogs on a budget

The FDW crate is best suited for calm, well-trained dogs who won’t test the limits of their enclosure. It’s not designed for aggressive chewers, anxious dogs who scratch at crate walls, or dogs with a history of crate destruction. For ordinary companion dogs who simply need a secure space, this crate delivers exceptional value.

Quality considerations

Several reviewers noted that the door latch mechanism can feel less refined than the MidWest equivalent. This is a trade-off that’s expected at this price point. For most dogs, the latch provides adequate security. For determined escape artists, upgrading to the MidWest LifeStages or Ultima Pro is worthwhile.

9. Petmate Vari Dog Kennel 36 Inch — Travel & Airline Friendly

The Petmate Vari Kennel is a fundamentally different product category from the wire crates in our roundup — it’s a hard-sided plastic kennel designed for both home use and travel. The #6 best seller ranking in Dog Hard-Sided Carriers reflects its strong reputation among dog owners who travel with their pets by air.

Unlike wire crates that collapse flat for storage, the Petmate Vari is a permanent plastic shell. This makes it better suited as a primary home crate for dogs who benefit from the enclosed den-like feel of solid walls, rather than as a portable option for frequent travelers who need fold-flat convenience.

The four-sided ventilation and stay-dry moat are standout features. The stay-dry moat is particularly useful for housebreaking puppies — it directs accidents away from the dog and contains them in a moat at the crate’s edge for easy cleanup. The two-piece plastic design assembles in seconds without tools.

When to choose a plastic kennel over wire

Some dogs — particularly anxious rescues or dogs coming from shelter environments — feel more secure in the enclosed plastic shell compared to wire crates. The solid walls create a den-like atmosphere that mimics the natural confinement instincts dogs evolved with. If your dog shows signs of crate anxiety or stress in a wire crate, the Petmate Vari’s enclosed design may be the solution.

Airline travel considerations

The Petmate Vari meets most airline cargo specifications for pets 50-70 pounds, making it the go-to choice for owners who travel by air with medium-large breeds. The tamper-proof zip tie holes are included for airline compliance. Before booking airline travel, always verify current airline-specific requirements — these change periodically.

10. Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate 36 Inch

The Amazon Basics soft-sided crate is in a category entirely separate from every other product in our roundup. Where the wire and plastic crates we’ve reviewed are permanent or semi-permanent enclosures, the soft crate is a travel accessory designed for use in vehicles, hotel rooms, camping situations, and other temporary environments where a rigid crate would be impractical.

Weighing just 7.89 pounds and folding flat with the included carrying case, this crate transforms from a compact package into a functional enclosure in seconds. The #8 best seller ranking in Dog Crates reflects its popularity among dog owners who travel regularly with their companions.

The mesh ventilation on all four sides keeps your dog comfortable in warmer temperatures, and the secure zipper closures with fastening straps provide peace of mind during travel. The two doors — one on top and one on the front — make loading and accessing your dog straightforward from multiple angles.

Who should buy the soft crate

This crate is ideal for well-behaved, crate-trained dogs who travel regularly. Road trips, camping vacations, hotel stays, and visits to dog-friendly relatives’ homes are all scenarios where the soft crate shines. If your dog is calm in a crate and doesn’t suffer from anxiety or destructive tendencies, the portability of this crate is genuinely useful.

Critical limitations

This is not a crate for anxious dogs, destructive dogs, or dogs who scratch at fabric. The soft material will not withstand a determined dog who decides to test the limits of their enclosure. Additionally, the base has no padding — adding a crate pad or dog bed is strongly recommended for comfort during extended use.

What to Look for in a 36-Inch Dog Crate

Choosing the right 36-inch dog crate involves weighing several factors that go beyond simple price comparisons. Here’s what experienced dog owners and trainers recommend considering before making your purchase:

Crate sizing and breed fit

A 36-inch crate is designed for medium-large breed dogs in the 41-70 pound range. Breeds that typically fit well in a 36-inch crate include Bulldogs, Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, Whippets, Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, and similar-sized dogs. Your dog should be able to stand up without hunching over, turn around comfortably, and stretch out fully when lying down.

If you’re between sizes — your dog is at the upper end of the 36-inch range or you want extra space — consider the 42-inch crate instead. A crate that’s too small causes stress and behavioral issues, while one that’s appropriately sized becomes a safe haven rather than a source of discomfort.

Door configuration: single vs. double

Double-door crates offer meaningful placement flexibility that single-door crates cannot match. If your crate will sit in a corner, against a wall, or in any position where one side is inaccessible, a double-door crate lets you position it optimally without compromising access. The price premium for double-door models is typically $10-20, and for most owners, this investment is worthwhile.

The divider panel: essential for puppies

If you’re purchasing a crate for a growing puppy, the divider panel is one of the most important features to evaluate. Most quality wire crates include a divider panel that lets you start with a smaller space and expand as your puppy grows. This single feature can save you $50-100 by eliminating the need to purchase multiple crates during your puppy’s first year.

When evaluating divider panels, check that the panel is included in the box price (some brands sell it separately) and that the adjustment system is intuitive and secure.

Material and durability

Standard wire crates use metal wire with an e-coat (electroplating) finish that resists rust and corrosion. The quality of this finish varies between manufacturers — MidWest’s e-coat is considered the industry standard. Budget crates may use thinner wire or lower-quality coatings that can flex, bend, or show rust earlier in the crate’s lifespan.

For most dogs, standard wire crate construction is entirely adequate. For aggressive chewers, anxious dogs who scratch at crate walls, or particularly powerful breeds, consider upgrading to the MidWest LifeStages or Ultima Pro models with enhanced security features.

Leak-proof trays

Every wire crate in our roundup includes a leak-proof plastic tray. The quality of these trays varies in two key ways: how securely they attach to the crate base, and how well they contain liquids. Look for trays with metal hook securing systems or similar retention mechanisms that prevent the tray from sliding or being pushed out of position by an active puppy.

Portability and storage

All wire crates in our roundup fold flat for storage and transport. The weight of the folded crate varies from about 20 pounds (Amazon Basics single door) to 34 pounds (MidWest Ultima Pro). If you need to move the crate frequently, factor this into your decision — the heavier models are more stable but less convenient for regular transport.

Final Verdict: Best 36 Inch Dog Crate in 2026

After analyzing every major option in the 36-inch dog crate category, our top recommendation remains the MidWest iCrate 36-Inch Double Door. With over 114,000 customer reviews, a 4.7-star rating, and the #1 best seller ranking in Basic Dog Crates, it’s the most trusted crate in its category — and for good reason. The double-door design, included divider panel, and proven MidWest build quality make it the crate we’d recommend to friends and family without hesitation.

If budget is your primary concern, the Amazon Basics Single Door Dog Crate delivers exceptional value under $50 with nearly all the same features. For owners of escape-artist or anxious dogs, the MidWest Ultima Pro provides professional-grade durability at the cost of added weight. And for dog owners who travel with their companions, the Amazon Basics Soft Dog Crate is the only collapsible travel option that belongs in this conversation.

Whatever crate you choose, investing in a quality 36-inch enclosure is one of the best decisions you can make for your medium-large breed dog’s safety, comfort, and development. A well-chosen crate becomes a trusted space your dog looks forward to retreating to — not a punishment or a place of stress.

Ready to find the perfect crate for your dog? Use our comparison table above to evaluate your options, and check the latest prices directly on Amazon for the most up-to-date availability and pricing information.