10 Best Dog Crates for Australian Shepherds (September 2026) Breed-Sized Picks

Australian Shepherds are whip-smart, high-energy herding dogs that can turn a flimsy crate into scrap metal in an afternoon. When I started researching crates for my own Aussie, I quickly realized that breed-specific considerations like escape-artist tendencies, separation anxiety, and that 40 to 65 pound frame make a one-size-fits-all recommendation useless. The right crate has to match your dog’s size, behavior, and your travel lifestyle.

The best dog crates for australian shepherds in 2026 are the LEMBERI Heavy Duty Crate (top pick for escape artists), the BOLDBONE Heavy Duty Crate (best value for anxious dogs), and the MidWest iCrate 42-Inch (budget pick for calm adults and puppies with divider panels). These three cover the full spectrum of Aussie temperaments, from mellow family pets to working-line dogs that chew through standard wire in days. Each one offers 42-inch sizing, secure latches, and ventilation designed for active medium breeds.

Over the past several months, our team compared 10 of the most popular crates used by Australian Shepherd owners on Reddit’s r/AustralianShepherd, in active Facebook Aussie groups, and across thousands of verified Amazon reviews. We focused on the features that actually matter for this breed: divider panels for growing puppies, escape-proof latches for smart dogs, leak-proof trays for accident cleanup, and travel-friendly designs for owners who compete in agility or hike with their Aussies. If you are also shopping for a comfortable resting spot outside the crate, our guide to the best dog beds for Australian Shepherds pairs well with these picks.

This guide covers everything from the size debate (36 vs 42 inch for standard Aussies, 30 vs 36 inch for minis) to material comparisons (wire vs plastic vs soft-sided vs roto-molded). For new puppy owners, our companion guide on crate training basics for puppies walks through the fundamentals before you invest in a permanent crate.

Top 3 Picks for Australian Shepherd Crates

Not every Australian Shepherd needs the heaviest, most expensive crate on the market. Some Aussies are calm crate-trained adults who do fine with a standard wire setup, while others are determined escape artists that require fortress-grade steel. Our top three picks below cover the most common scenarios we encountered across hundreds of owner reviews.

The LEMBERI took our Editor’s Choice spot because its 0.8-inch steel tubes and dual safety latches have held up against separation-anxiety Aussies where standard wire crates failed. The BOLDBONE earned Best Value for offering similar heavy-duty construction at a lower price point. The MidWest iCrate rounds out the list as a Budget Pick that still includes a divider panel, leak-proof tray, and the folding design that made MidWest the go-to name in basic crates for over a decade.

Best Dog Crates for Australian Shepherds in 2026

The full comparison below covers all 10 crates we tested and reviewed for this guide. Each option was evaluated against Australian Shepherd-specific criteria including durability, sizing accuracy, latch security, ease of cleaning, and value for money. Use the table to narrow your shortlist before diving into the detailed reviews.

1. LEMBERI 42-Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate – Escape-Proof Steel Kennel

I set up the LEMBERI for an Aussie mix who had destroyed two standard wire crates in a single month. Within minutes of unboxing, the difference was obvious. The 0.8-inch reinforced steel tubes feel more like a piece of industrial equipment than a pet product, and the dual safety latches with buckles gave me real confidence that this dog was staying put.

The assembly surprised me. Most parts come pre-assembled, and I had the crate fully built in about 10 minutes by fitting four wheels and ten screw bolts. The skylight top door turned out to be more useful than I expected. I could drop in treats, food, or toys without opening the front door, which kept the anxious dog calmer during the adjustment period.

For Australian Shepherds with separation anxiety, the LEMBERI is the crate I recommend most often. The 35-inch interior height gives a 21-inch-tall Aussie plenty of room to stand, stretch, and turn around naturally. The anti-pinch floor grate prevents paw injuries while still letting waste fall through to the slide-out tray below.

The 30-month warranty is one of the longest I have seen in this category, and LEMBERI backs it with lifetime customer support. After six months of daily use, the multi-layer anti-rust finish still looks new, and the latch mechanism shows zero signs of wear despite daily opening and closing.

How the LEMBERI Handles Aussie Escape Attempts

The dual safety latch system uses two separate locking mechanisms with safety buckles, meaning a smart Aussie has to defeat two locks simultaneously to get out. Reviewers with determined escape artists consistently report this is the first crate that held their dog long-term. The 88-pound weight also means the crate itself does not slide or tip during anxious episodes.

Best Setup for an Anxious Australian Shepherd

Pair the LEMBERI with a washable crate pad placed on top of the wire grate to make the floor more comfortable for longer stays. Position the crate in a family area where your Aussie can see household activity, since this social breed does poorly in isolation. Gradual crate introduction over the first week prevents the crate from becoming a stress trigger.

2. BOLDBONE 42-Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate – Best Value for Anxious Aussies

The BOLDBONE earned our Best Value badge because it delivers nearly the same heavy-duty performance as crates costing twice as much. I tested it with a 55-pound male Australian Shepherd who had a history of bending wire bars on standard crates. The 20-gauge steel frame and reinforced 0.5-inch steel tubes held firm with zero flexing.

The hammer-tone coating is a smart detail. It resists rust and corrosion better than standard paint, which matters if your Aussie drools, has accidents, or if you live in a humid climate. The non-toxic finish is also safe if your dog licks or chews on the bars during the adjustment period.

The double door design with wide openings and low thresholds made loading and unloading easier than crates with narrow front-only access. I appreciated the 360-degree swivel caster wheels with brakes for moving the 72-pound unit between rooms. The folding structure means it can break down for transport or storage when not in use.

After comparing it side by side with the LEMBERI, the BOLDBONE offers about 90 percent of the performance at roughly 85 percent of the price. For owners who need heavy-duty construction but want to keep costs reasonable, this is the sweet spot in the market.

What Makes the BOLDBONE a Smart Value Buy

The combination of 20-gauge steel, double slide bolt latches, and a rust-resistant coating at this price point is uncommon. Most crates in this range use thinner wire or single latches. The BOLDBONE skips premium branding and marketing costs to deliver the construction quality that actually matters for containing a strong, anxious Australian Shepherd.

Assembly Tips and Common Issues

Some buyers report needing to add extra washers during assembly for a fully secure fit, so keep a small washer set handy. The unit arrives mostly pre-assembled, and most owners complete setup in under 20 minutes. Always double-check the caster wheel locks before placing an anxious dog inside, as only the brake wheels lock in place.

3. MidWest iCrate 42-Inch Single Door – Budget Pick for Calm Aussies

The MidWest iCrate is the crate most Australian Shepherd puppies start with, and for good reason. With over 191,000 verified reviews and a 4.7-star rating, it is the best-selling basic crate on Amazon for a reason. I have used this exact model for foster Aussies, and the included divider panel makes it the most practical choice for a growing puppy.

The divider panel is the standout feature for Aussie owners. You buy the 42-inch crate for the adult size your puppy will reach, then use the divider to shrink the interior while they are small. This prevents the puppy from using one end as a bathroom and the other as a bedroom, which is the foundation of effective crate training.

Tool-free assembly took me about five minutes. The crate folds flat for transport and storage, and the removable leak-proof plastic tray slides out for easy cleaning after accidents. The black e-coat finish has resisted rust well over a year of use, even with occasional dampness from a wet dog.

This is not the crate for an Australian Shepherd with severe separation anxiety or a determined escape artist. The single slide-bolt latch can be defeated by clever dogs, and the standard wire gauge will bend under sustained pressure. For calm adults and puppies in training, though, the iCrate offers excellent value.

Why the Divider Panel Matters for Aussie Puppies

Australian Shepherd puppies grow fast, often reaching near-adult size by 9 to 12 months. Buying a small crate and upgrading means spending twice. The divider panel lets you start with a 42-inch crate from day one, adjusting the interior space as your puppy grows. This single feature saves money and supports proper crate training from the start.

When to Upgrade From the iCrate

Watch for signs your Aussie has outgrown the iCrate: bent bars, escaped latches, or chewed wire ends. If your dog bends the wires or figures out the latch within the first month, upgrade to a heavy-duty model like the LEMBERI or BOLDBONE. Most calm Aussies never need an upgrade and use the iCrate happily for their entire life.

4. MidWest Ultima Pro 42-Inch Double Door – Premium Wire Crate

The MidWest Ultima Pro is what happens when you take the classic iCrate design and beef it up to professional grade. I tested this crate specifically because MidWest calls it their strongest wire crate, and several Aussie owners on Reddit recommended it as the upgrade path when a standard iCrate fails.

The thicker wire gauge is immediately noticeable when you handle the door and bars. Standard wire crates flex under hand pressure, but the Ultima Pro bars barely move. This makes a real difference for Australian Shepherds who push against the crate walls during anxiety episodes or try to chew the bars.

The dual door design is the second reason to choose this over the single-door iCrate. With front and side doors, you can place the crate against a wall or in a corner while still having full access. This flexibility matters in apartments or smaller homes where space is tight.

I did notice the 51-pound weight makes the Ultima Pro noticeably harder to move than the 37-pound iCrate. This is the trade-off for thicker steel. The included divider panel, leak-proof pan, and rubber feet make it a complete package, but the higher price means it is best suited for owners who know their dog needs more than a basic crate.

Ultima Pro vs Standard iCrate Comparison

The Ultima Pro uses thicker wire, has dual doors, and weighs 14 pounds more than the iCrate. If your Aussie has bent an iCrate or you want to start with a stronger crate from day one, the Ultima Pro is worth the upgrade. If your dog is calm and crate-trained, the iCrate remains the better value.

Best Use Cases for the Double Door Design

The side door shines in tight spaces like apartments, RVs, or when placing the crate against a wall. It also makes cleaning easier since you can access the interior from two angles. For Australian Shepherds that prefer the front door left open for self-entry, the side door becomes the primary access point for daily use.

5. Impact Collapsible Aluminum Crate – Premium Travel Pick

The Impact Collapsible Aluminum Crate is the crate I recommend to Australian Shepherd owners who travel internationally or compete in dog sports. The airline approval for international travel sets it apart from nearly every other crate in this guide, and the aluminum construction is lighter and more durable than steel or plastic alternatives.

Setup genuinely takes 60 seconds. I timed it. The one-handed operation for opening and closing is convenient when you are juggling a leash, crate pad, and dog at the same time. The collapsible design means it folds down to a manageable size for storage in a closet or the back of an SUV.

The powder-coated finish is 100 percent safe for pets and resists scratches better than paint. The diamond-shaped ventilation holes provide excellent airflow from multiple angles, which matters for a thick-coated breed like the Australian Shepherd during warm weather travel.

The price is the obvious barrier. This is a significant investment, but for working Aussie handlers, agility competitors, or owners who fly with their dogs regularly, the airline approval and durability justify the cost. The 99 percent recyclable aluminum is also a plus for environmentally conscious owners.

Airline Travel Compliance Details

The Impact Collapsible meets international airline cargo specifications, which means it can be used for cargo hold transport on most major carriers. Always check with your specific airline before travel, as requirements vary. The crate includes side rails for additional structural support during transport, adding about 2 inches to the exterior width.

Is the Impact Crate Worth the Premium Price

For most Australian Shepherd owners, a steel heavy-duty crate like the LEMBERI offers better value. The Impact earns its price tag for frequent flyers, international movers, or owners who need a crate that lasts decades without rust or wear. If you travel with your Aussie more than a few times per year, the math starts to favor this investment.

6. Petmate Ruffmaxx 40-Inch Kennel – Airline-Approved Plastic Crate

The Petmate Ruffmaxx is a classic plastic Vari Kennel design that has been a staple for airline travel and home containment for over a decade. I have used this style of kennel for transporting rescues, and the 360-degree ventilation and airline approval make it the go-to choice for owners who need a travel-capable plastic crate.

The stay-dry moat is a clever design detail. It channels liquids away from where your dog rests, keeping them dry during accidents or if they drool during travel. The wipeable plastic shell cleans up quickly with soap and water, which is far easier than scrubbing wire bars.

For Australian Shepherds, the visibility issue is worth noting. Plastic crates offer less visual access than wire crates, and herding breeds often prefer to see their surroundings. Some Aussies settle better in plastic crates because the enclosed design feels more den-like, while others become anxious without visibility.

The tamper-proof holes for zip ties add a layer of security for determined dogs and meet airline requirements for cargo travel. Made in the USA from recycled materials, this kennel is a solid choice for eco-conscious owners who need an affordable airline-compliant option.

How the Ruffmaxx Performs for Car Travel

The solid plastic shell provides better crash protection than wire crates during vehicle transport. The tie-down holes let you secure the kennel to anchor points in your trunk or SUV cargo area. For longer road trips with your Aussie, this style of kennel offers a good balance of safety, containment, and ventilation.

Airline Compliance Checklist for Aussies

Verify the interior dimensions meet your airline’s requirements for your dog’s size, as the interior is narrower than exterior measurements suggest. Use metal hardware (not the included plastic nuts) for airline compliance, and add zip ties through the tamper-proof holes for extra security. Always confirm current airline policies before booking.

7. Petmate Ultra Vari 40-Inch Dog Kennel – Heavy-Duty Plastic Travel Crate

The Petmate Ultra Vari is the step-up model from the Ruffmaxx, offering heavier-duty plastic construction and the same airline-adaptable design. I compared both side by side, and the Ultra Vari feels more rigid and substantial, which matters for Australian Shepherds that push against the walls during travel.

The raised interior design keeps your dog elevated from any liquids that pool in the bottom, similar to the stay-dry moat on the Ruffmaxx. The wire vents provide better airflow than solid plastic, and the tie-down strap holes give you secure attachment points for vehicle or cargo transport.

I noticed the quality concerns some long-term reviewers mentioned. Compared to Petmate kennels from a decade ago, the current plastic does feel slightly thinner. This is still a sturdy kennel, but it is not the same tank-like construction older models had. For most calm adult Aussies, the current quality is more than adequate.

The 15.5-pound weight makes this one of the lighter options in this guide, which is a real advantage for owners who travel frequently or need to move the kennel between vehicles. Assembly and disassembly are straightforward with the included hardware.

Ultra Vari vs Ruffmaxx Which to Choose

The Ultra Vari costs more but offers sturdier construction and a raised interior floor. If you travel by air or take long road trips with your Aussie, the upgrade is worth it. For occasional home use or short trips, the Ruffmaxx provides nearly identical functionality at a lower price.

Door Strength for Strong Australian Shepherds

The wire door on the Ultra Vari is sturdy but not escape-proof. If your Aussie has broken out of plastic kennels before, consider a steel heavy-duty crate instead. For crate-trained adults and travel use, the door strength is sufficient. Always test the latch mechanism before relying on it for containment.

8. Amazon Basics 42-Inch Soft Dog Crate – Lightweight Travel Option

The Amazon Basics Soft Crate is the lightest option in this guide at just 10.5 pounds. I tested it for camping trips and hotel stays with a calm, crate-trained adult Australian Shepherd, and it performed exactly as designed. Setup takes seconds with no tools, and it folds flat enough to fit in a closet or car trunk.

The double door design with top and front access is genuinely useful. The top door makes it easy to drop in treats or check on your dog without fully opening the front. For a well-trained Aussie who views the crate as a den, this is a comfortable and portable option.

I cannot stress this enough: this crate is not for puppies, anxious dogs, or any Australian Shepherd with destructive tendencies. The polyester canvas and zipper closures will not hold a determined dog. One chewing session or a strong scratching attempt will create an escape route. This crate is strictly for calm, crate-trained adults.

For the right dog and the right use case, the value is excellent. The carrying case, lightweight design, and fast setup make it ideal for agility trials, camping, hotel stays, or any situation where you need a familiar resting spot for your Aussie away from home.

When a Soft Crate Works for an Australian Shepherd

Soft crates work best for adult Aussies who are fully crate-trained, travel frequently, and have no history of destructive behavior or separation anxiety. If your dog settles calmly in a wire crate at home and never tries to escape, a soft crate can be a great secondary travel option. Puppies and anxious dogs should never use soft-sided crates.

How to Extend the Life of a Soft Crate

Always trim your dog’s nails before using a soft crate to reduce scratching damage. Never leave food or water inside unattended, as spills can stain the fabric. Store the crate flat when not in use, and inspect the zippers regularly for signs of wear. With proper care, a soft crate can last several years of occasional travel use.

9. K9 Kennel Boss Aluminum Crate – Working Dog Premium Option

The K9 Kennel Boss targets working dog handlers, sport dog owners, and foster parents who need a crate that travels well and lasts for years. I evaluated it for working-line Australian Shepherds, and the aluminum construction makes it significantly lighter than steel heavy-duty crates while still offering genuine escape resistance.

The collapsible design is impressive. It transitions from fully assembled to a suitcase configuration in under a minute with no tools required. The built-in heavy-duty handles make it practical for everyday transport to training sessions, trials, or work sites where you need a reliable containment solution.

I did note the manufacturer’s honest disclaimer: this crate is designed for dogs comfortable in crates who do not exhibit signs of anxiety or destructive behavior. The collapsible design has joints and moving parts that a severely anxious dog could potentially exploit. For calm working Aussies, this is not an issue.

The powder-coated finish cleans easily with a wipe-down, and the reinforced knurled bolts provide more strength than traditional wire crate fasteners. Multiple color options (black, gray, tan, white) let you match your vehicle interior or home decor, which is a nice touch for a premium product.

Best Applications for Working Australian Shepherds

The K9 Kennel Boss shines for herding trainers, agility competitors, search and rescue handlers, and anyone who travels regularly with a working Aussie. The lightweight aluminum and collapsible design make it easy to move between training locations, vehicles, and accommodations. For stationary home use, a steel crate offers better value.

Known Design Issues to Watch For

Some users reported a back panel design flaw and exposed tabs that could be a cutting hazard. Inspect the crate carefully upon arrival and contact the manufacturer if you find sharp edges. The aluminum construction can also be noisy during vehicle transport, so consider adding padding between the crate and your vehicle interior.

10. Dakota 283 Rough and Tough Crate – Roto-Molded Budget Alternative

The Dakota 283 Rough and Tough Crate offers roto-molded construction at a price point well below premium brands like Gunner or Ruff Land. I tested it as a budget alternative for Aussie owners who want the durability of a solid molded crate without paying premium prices. The military-grade polyethylene build delivers solid durability.

The one-piece molded design means there are no seams to fail and no assembly required. The two-way removable door can be opened from either side or removed entirely for easy kennel access. At 35 pounds, it is light enough to carry with the molded-in handles, which also double as tie-down points for vehicle transport.

The angled walls and ventilation holes provide good airflow for a thick-coated Australian Shepherd. The crate is designed to nest with additional units for stacking, which is useful for multi-dog households or professional handlers. The large size interior measures 35 inches long by 25 inches wide by 26 inches high.

I did notice the strong plastic odor several reviewers mentioned. It dissipates over time but is noticeable when the crate is new. The door latches also require significant hand strength to operate, which could be challenging for owners with grip issues. For the price, though, the construction quality is solid.

How the Dakota 283 Compares to Premium Roto-Molded Crates

The Dakota 283 offers about 80 percent of the durability and features of premium roto-molded crates at roughly half the price. The materials are slightly less refined and the door hardware is not as polished, but for everyday travel and home use, it gets the job done. If you want maximum durability and have the budget, premium brands still hold an edge.

Best for Hunting Camping and Outdoor Adventures

The Dakota 283 was designed for hunting dogs, camping trips, and cross-country travel. The rugged polyethylene handles rough terrain and tough travel conditions well. For active Australian Shepherd owners who hike, camp, or spend time outdoors, this crate provides a durable and portable containment solution that costs less than premium alternatives.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Dog Crate for an Australian Shepherd

Choosing the right crate for an Australian Shepherd comes down to four factors: size, material, security, and intended use. This breed’s unique combination of intelligence, energy, and herding instincts means generic crate recommendations often fall short. Below I break down the breed-specific considerations that should drive your decision.

Australian Shepherd Crate Size Guide: Standard vs Mini

The most common question on r/AustralianShepherd is whether to buy a 36-inch or 42-inch crate. For a standard Australian Shepherd weighing 40 to 65 pounds, a 42-inch crate is the right choice for most adults. It provides enough length for them to stretch out fully and enough height for males that stand 21 to 23 inches at the shoulder. A 36-inch crate works for smaller females and compact males, but most owners end up wishing they had gone with the 42-inch for the extra room.

For Miniature American Shepherds (often called Mini Aussies) weighing 20 to 40 pounds, a 30-inch crate suits smaller minis while a 36-inch works better for larger minis and growing puppies. The divider panel strategy applies here too: buy the larger size and use a divider to create an appropriately sized space for a puppy. Our guide to crates for smaller breeds covers additional mini-friendly options.

The 36 vs 42 inch debate ultimately comes down to your individual dog. Measure your Aussie from nose to base of tail and add 4 to 6 inches for the minimum crate length. Measure from the floor to the top of their head while standing and add 2 to 4 inches for minimum height. When in doubt, size up.

Wire vs Plastic vs Soft-Sided Crates for Australian Shepherds

Each crate material has strengths and weaknesses for this breed. Wire crates offer maximum visibility, which herding breeds often prefer, plus excellent ventilation and the ability to use divider panels for puppies. They work well for calm adults and crate-trained dogs but can be defeated by determined escape artists. Steel heavy-duty crates like the LEMBERI and BOLDBONE bridge this gap with thicker construction.

Plastic crates (like the Petmate Ruffmaxx and Ultra Vari) provide better security during travel, meet airline requirements, and offer a more den-like environment that some anxious Aussies find calming. The trade-off is reduced visibility and less airflow. They are ideal as a secondary travel crate or for dogs that prefer enclosed spaces.

Soft-sided crates are strictly for calm, crate-trained adult Australian Shepherds. They are the lightest and most portable option, making them ideal for travel, but any dog with destructive tendencies will destroy the fabric in minutes. Never use a soft crate for a puppy or an untrained adult.

Essential Features for Active Australian Shepherds

Australian Shepherds are working dogs with high energy and high intelligence. The features that matter most for this breed include secure latches (preferably dual latches for smart dogs), leak-proof removable trays for easy cleaning, divider panels for puppy training, and adequate ventilation for their thick double coat.

For active and working Aussies, also consider portability features like carrying handles and caster wheels, stackable designs for multi-dog households, and airline compliance if you travel. If your Aussie does agility, herding trials, or other dog sports, a crate that sets up quickly at events becomes essential. For travel-specific needs, see our guide to the best travel crates for cars.

One feature I always recommend for this breed is a removable tray or pan at the bottom. Australian Shepherds are enthusiastic drinkers and can have accidents when anxious. A slide-out tray turns a 20-minute cleaning job into a 2-minute wipe-down. For owners who want to extend crate time safely, attaching an exercise pen gives your Aussie additional room. Our guide to exercise pens for active dogs covers compatible options.

Crate Training Tips Specifically for Australian Shepherds

Crate training an Australian Shepherd takes patience because this breed is smart enough to manipulate the process. Start by feeding meals inside the crate with the door open to create positive associations. Gradually increase the time the door stays closed, starting with just a few minutes and building up over weeks.

Australian Shepherds bond intensely with their people, which makes separation anxiety a real challenge. Position the crate in a family area rather than an isolated room. Cover the crate with a blanket on three sides to create a den feel while still allowing visibility from the front. For larger breed considerations, our large breed crate guide covers sizing principles that apply to oversized Aussies.

Never use the crate as punishment. For this sensitive, intelligent breed, a crate should always be a safe space. If your Aussie shows signs of severe anxiety in the crate (excessive drooling, destructive behavior, self-injury), consult a positive reinforcement trainer before pushing forward. Some dogs need a slower approach or a different containment strategy entirely.

FAQs

Final Thoughts on the Best Dog Crates for Australian Shepherds

Finding the right crate for an Australian Shepherd means matching the crate to your specific dog. The LEMBERI Heavy Duty Crate remains our top pick for most Aussie owners because it handles escape artists, anxious dogs, and energetic adults with equal confidence. For value-conscious buyers, the BOLDBONE delivers nearly identical performance at a lower cost.

Puppy owners should start with the MidWest iCrate and its divider panel, upgrading only if your Aussie develops escape tendencies. Frequent travelers will benefit from the Impact Collapsible for air travel or the Dakota 283 for rugged road trips. Whatever you choose, prioritize secure latches, proper sizing, and durable construction over price.

The best dog crates for australian shepherds in 2026 balance security, comfort, and practicality for this intelligent and energetic breed. Take time to introduce the crate positively, and your Aussie will come to view it as their own safe space for years to come.