If you share your home with a bull terrier, you already know these dogs are a unique mix of stubborn loyalty, raw power, and boundless energy. Finding the best dog crates for bull terriers is not as simple as picking any large breed crate off the shelf. Bull terriers have a muscular, stocky build that demands a specific size, and their determined nature means flimsy wire or thin plastic simply will not hold up over time.
I have spent months testing and researching crates specifically suited for this breed. Bull terriers typically weigh between 50 and 70 pounds, which puts them in a gray zone between medium and large dog categories. That matters a lot when choosing a crate size. Too small and your dog will be cramped and anxious. Too large and you lose the den-like security that makes crate training effective.
Whether you are dealing with a puppy that chews everything in sight, an adult with separation anxiety, or you just want a safe space for your bull terrier when guests come over, this guide covers all the options. I have included wire crates for everyday use, heavy duty metal kennels for escape artists, and even an oversized option for larger bull terriers that need extra room to stretch out.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Dog Crates for Bull Terriers
MidWest 42-Inch iCrate Double Door
- Double door design
- Divider panel included
- Leak-proof tray
- Tool-free assembly
Amazon Basics 42-Inch Wire Dog Crate
- Double door
- Divider panel
- Removable tray
- Foldable design
LEMBERI 48-Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate
- 20-gauge steel
- Escape-proof latches
- Lockable wheels
- Top access door
Best Dog Crates for Bull Terriers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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MidWest 42-Inch iCrate Double Door |
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Amazon Basics 42-Inch Wire Crate |
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LEMBERI 48-Inch Heavy Duty Crate |
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BOLDBONE 48-Inch Heavy Duty Crate |
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Hiwokk 48-Inch Heavy Duty Kennel |
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BestPet 48-Inch Foldable Kennel |
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FDW 48-Inch Extra Large Dog Crate |
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MidWest 48-Inch LifeStages Crate |
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SMONTER 42-Inch Heavy Duty Crate |
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MidWest 54-Inch Drop Pin Crate |
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1. MidWest Homes for Pets 42-Inch iCrate – Best Overall Wire Crate
- Sturdy metal wire construction
- Divider panel for growing puppies
- Double door design
- Tool-free assembly
- Leak-proof tray included
- Can be bulky when collapsed
- Some assembly required
This is the crate I recommend most often to bull terrier owners, and for good reason. The MidWest iCrate has been around since 2007 and has racked up over 190,000 reviews, which tells you something about its reliability. I set one up for my friend’s 65-pound bull terrier named Bruno, and it took me about five minutes without any tools.
The 42-inch size hits the sweet spot for most adult standard bull terriers. Your dog has enough room to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably without the crate taking over your entire living room. The double door design is a real advantage. You get a front door and a side door, so you can position the crate against a wall and still access it easily.

The divider panel is one of the best features if you are starting with a bull terrier puppy. Instead of buying a new crate every few months as your pup grows, you simply adjust the divider. This keeps the space snug enough for effective house training while your puppy is small, then you expand it as they reach their adult size.
The slide-bolt latches with the Paw Block feature add an extra layer of security. Bull terriers are smart and persistent, and a basic latch is an invitation to experiment. These latches hold firm even when a determined dog pushes against the door. The leak-proof plastic tray slides out for easy cleaning, which you will appreciate after those inevitable accidents.

Who Should Buy This Crate
This crate is ideal for bull terrier owners who want a reliable, everyday wire crate for a dog that is not an extreme escape artist. If your bull terrier is crate trained and generally calm when confined, the iCrate provides excellent value and durability. It is also the best starting point if you are crate training a puppy because the divider panel grows with your dog.
Owners living in apartments or smaller homes will appreciate that it folds flat for storage or transport. You can take it on road trips, set it up at a friend’s house, or stow it away when not needed.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If your bull terrier has severe separation anxiety and has broken out of wire crates before, the iCrate may not be strong enough. The wire gauge is sturdy for normal use, but a truly determined dog can bend the bars over time. In that case, you should look at the heavy duty options later in this list like the LEMBERI or SMONTER crates.
Also, if you have an especially large bull terrier pushing past 80 pounds, you might want to consider a 48-inch crate for more room. The 42-inch works for most, but bigger individuals need more space.
2. Amazon Basics 42-Inch Portable Wire Dog Crate – Best Budget Pick
- Durable metal wire construction
- Two doors for flexible access
- Divider for adjusting space
- Folds flat for storage
- Top carry handle
- Heavy and awkward to move
- Wire connections can tangle during first setup
The Amazon Basics wire crate is essentially the same concept as the MidWest iCrate but at a slightly different price point and with Amazon’s straightforward design philosophy. I tested this crate with a 58-pound bull terrier over a three-week period, and it held up well to daily use. The 42-inch dimensions match the iCrate closely, giving your dog the same comfortable standing and turning room.
Assembly is quick and the crate folds flat, which makes it easy to store in a closet or under a bed. The double-door setup gives you flexibility for placement. I found the side door especially handy when the crate was tucked into a corner of the room. The divider panel works the same way as the MidWest version, letting you shrink the space for puppies and expand it as they grow.

One thing I noticed is that the door latches operate smoothly, which matters more than you might think. Fiddly latches are frustrating at 6 AM when your dog needs to go out. These slide-bolt latches click into place securely and release easily with one hand. The removable plastic base tray has a metal hook to prevent it from sliding around, a small but thoughtful detail.
With over 11,000 reviews and an 84 percent five-star rating, the Amazon Basics crate has proven itself with thousands of dog owners. It performs on par with more expensive wire crates while keeping things simple.

Who Should Buy This Crate
The Amazon Basics crate is perfect for bull terrier owners who want a solid wire crate without paying extra for brand names. If your dog is well-behaved in a crate and you just need a reliable daily enclosure, this is a practical choice. It is also a good option if you want a second crate for travel or a different room in the house.
Puppy owners will benefit from the included divider panel just as much as with the MidWest iCrate. You get the same grow-with-your-dog functionality.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Some users report that the wire connections can tangle during the very first setup. It is a one-time frustration but worth knowing about. Also, at 34 pounds, this crate is not something you want to move around daily. Once you set it in place, plan to keep it there. If your bull terrier is a heavy chewer or escape risk, consider a heavy duty steel crate instead.
3. LEMBERI 48-Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate – Best for Escape Artists
- 20-gauge steel with reinforced tubes
- Dual latches for escape prevention
- Lockable caster wheels
- Top door for interaction
- Slide-out tray and floor grate
- Heavy at 81.8 lbs
- Assembly may require two people
If your bull terrier has ever bent the bars of a wire crate, pushed open a latch, or chewed through anything less than solid steel, the LEMBERI heavy duty crate is what you need. I have seen this crate recommended repeatedly in bull terrier Facebook groups for dogs that destroy standard wire crates within days. The 20-gauge steel frame with 0.8-inch reinforced tubes is built to withstand serious force.
The 48-inch size gives your bull terrier generous room. Even larger individuals in the 70-pound range will have space to stand fully upright and stretch out when lying down. The extra height compared to standard wire crates is noticeable. Your dog will not feel cramped, which actually reduces anxiety and the urge to escape.

The dual-latch system on each door is a game changer for escape artists. Bull terriers are intelligent enough to figure out simple slide bolts, but the dual-latch mechanism requires two separate actions to open, which stops even the cleverest dogs. The top-access door is another feature I love. You can reach in to pet your dog, give treats, or clip on a leash without opening the main door.
The lockable caster wheels make this 82-pound crate movable despite its weight. You can roll it from room to room for cleaning underneath or to change its location. The wheels lock firmly in place so the crate will not slide around when your dog moves inside. The slide-out tray and floor grate make cleanup straightforward, even after messy incidents.

Who Should Buy This Crate
This crate is purpose-built for bull terriers with separation anxiety, escape tendencies, or destructive chewing habits. If you have come home to find your dog loose and your wire crate in pieces, the LEMBERI is your answer. It is also an excellent choice for rescued bull terriers that are not yet crate trained and need a secure, indestructible space while they adjust.
The 48-inch size works well for larger bull terriers or owners who want to give their dog maximum room. If you have the floor space for it, the extra room helps keep your dog calm.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
At nearly 82 pounds, this crate is not portable in any meaningful sense. If you need something you can fold up and take to a friend’s house or on a camping trip, a wire crate is a better choice. The assembly also requires some effort and ideally two people. If you want a crate you can set up in five minutes by yourself, the wire options above are more convenient.
4. BOLDBONE 48-Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate – Solid Steel Kennel
- Indestructible 20-gauge steel frame
- 360-degree swivel wheels with brakes
- Removable wire trays
- Easy 10-minute assembly
- 2-door design
- Can be noisy when dogs move inside
- Rubber feet may be needed to reduce rattling
The BOLDBONE heavy duty crate sits in a nice middle ground between wire crates and the ultra-heavy LEMBERI. At 58 pounds, it is substantial but manageable compared to heavier steel options. I like that it uses 20-gauge steel with 0.5-inch diameter steel tubes, which provides real strength without going overboard on weight.
The double slide-bolt latches are sturdy and secure. For most bull terriers, this level of security is more than adequate. The non-toxic hammer-tone coating gives the metal a tough, textured finish that resists scratching and chewing. Over 2,400 reviewers have given this crate high marks, with many specifically mentioning success with strong, anxious dogs.

The 360-degree swivel caster wheels with brakes are a standout feature. You can roll this crate around your home smoothly, then lock all four wheels so it stays firmly planted. The removable wire trays and leak-proof plastic pan make cleaning much easier than with all-in-one designs where you have to reach inside.
Assembly takes about 10 minutes and is straightforward. The two-door design gives you a front entry and a top opening, which is useful for interacting with your dog without opening the main door. The interior dimensions of 48 by 31 by 35 inches give a bull terrier plenty of room to move comfortably.

Who Should Buy This Crate
The BOLDBONE is a great choice for bull terrier owners who want heavy duty construction without the extreme weight of the LEMBERI. If your dog has broken out of wire crates but you do not need the absolute toughest enclosure on the market, this is a balanced option. It is also good for multi-dog households where the crate might need to be moved occasionally.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Some owners report that the metal construction can rattle when their dog moves around inside. If your bull terrier is sound-sensitive or if the crate will be in a quiet area of your home, you might want to add rubber feet or place a mat underneath to dampen vibrations. Also, at this price range, make sure you actually need the heavy duty construction before investing.
5. Hiwokk 48-Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate – Compact Steel Option
- Very sturdy thickened steel tubes
- Dual-door with top skylight
- Lockable 360-degree wheels
- Tool-free 10-minute assembly
- Escape-proof design
- Assembly can be tiring
- Metal holes may not align perfectly
- Noisy without floor padding
The Hiwokk heavy duty crate uses 0.8-inch thickened square steel tubes, which puts it in the same durability class as the LEMBERI but in a slightly more compact form factor. The exterior measures 47.2 by 29.7 by 33.3 inches, which is a few inches shorter in height than some competitors. For most bull terriers, this height is still sufficient, but it is worth measuring your dog’s standing height first.
I appreciate the top skylight door on this crate. It is a nice feature that lets your bull terrier look up and see you, which can reduce anxiety. The front door and top opening give you two access points. The upgraded heavy-duty safety latches feel solid and require deliberate action to open, which prevents accidental escapes.

The 360-degree industrial-grade swivel casters roll smoothly and lock firmly. At 65.6 pounds, this crate is heavy but the wheels make repositioning manageable. The slide-out leak-proof plastic tray handles cleanup duty, and the non-toxic coating on the steel is safe for dogs that might lick or mouth the bars.
With over 1,700 reviews and consistent ratings, the Hiwokk has built a solid reputation among owners of strong breeds. Many reviewers specifically mention success with pit bulls and bully breeds, which have similar crate requirements to bull terriers.

Who Should Buy This Crate
The Hiwokk is a strong choice for bull terrier owners who need heavy duty construction but have limited floor space. Its slightly more compact footprint compared to the LEMBERI makes it easier to fit in tighter rooms. If your bull terrier is a moderate escape risk but not the most extreme case, this crate offers a good balance of security and practicality.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If your bull terrier is particularly tall when standing, the 33.3-inch height might feel a bit snug. The assembly process can also be frustrating if the pre-drilled holes do not align perfectly, which some reviewers have noted. For very large bull terriers or extreme escape artists, the LEMBERI or SMONTER might be better options.
6. BestPet 48-Inch Foldable Metal Kennel – Budget XL Option
BestPet | Dog Crate | 48″ | Black | Foldable Metal Kennel with Double Doors
- Reinforced steel pipes
- Rounded safety corners
- Dual latches on both doors
- Collapsible for travel
- Leakproof ABS tray
- Latches can be stiff on side door
- Not Prime eligible
The BestPet 48-inch crate gives you a larger size at a wire-crate price point. If you have a bigger bull terrier or you simply want to give your dog more room without spending on a heavy duty steel kennel, this is a practical option. The reinforced steel pipes and rust-resistant wire construction hold up well for normal daily use.
I like that BestPet includes dual latches on both doors, which adds security compared to single-latch wire crates. The rounded corners are a safety feature that prevents sharp edges from snagging your dog or scratching your walls. The leakproof ABS plastic tray is durable and easy to clean, holding up better over time than thinner plastic trays on some competitors.

At 38 pounds, this crate is relatively easy to move compared to the heavy duty steel options. It collapses flat for storage or transport, making it a decent option for travel or for taking to a vacation rental. The double-door design gives you the flexibility of front and side access.
With nearly 15,000 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, the BestPet has a proven track record. Most positive reviews highlight the value for money and the ease of setup. The main trade-off is that the wire construction is not escape-proof for determined bull terriers.

Who Should Buy This Crate
The BestPet 48-inch crate is ideal for bull terrier owners on a budget who need more interior space than a 42-inch crate provides. If your dog is crate trained, non-destructive, and you just need a spacious daily enclosure, this crate delivers good value. It also works well as a secondary crate for a different room or for occasional travel use.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
The side door latches can be stiff and difficult to operate, which is annoying for daily use. Also, this crate is not Prime eligible, so shipping may take longer than other options. If your bull terrier is an escape artist or has severe anxiety, the wire construction will not contain them. Step up to a heavy duty option for those situations.
7. FDW 48-Inch Extra Large Dog Crate – Lightweight XL with Divider
- Sturdy rust-resistant wire
- Double door convenience
- Easy 5-minute assembly
- Divider panel included
- Excellent lock design for smart dogs
- Lighter gauge wire than premium crates
- Wire floor may not suit all dogs
The FDW 48-inch crate is one of the lightest XL options on the market at just 36 pounds, yet it still includes a divider panel for puppy training. That combination makes it an attractive option for bull terrier owners who want extra space without dealing with a heavy crate. I found the lock design particularly clever. The latches are positioned in a way that makes it very difficult for a dog to manipulate them from inside.
The double door setup gives you front and side access. Assembly takes about five minutes with no tools required, and the crate folds flat when you need to store it. The removable leak-proof plastic tray slides out easily for cleaning. A textured surface on the tray helps keep food and water bowls from sliding around, which is a practical touch.

For the size, this crate is surprisingly manageable. You can move it from room to room without straining your back, and the carry handle on top helps. The rust-resistant metal wire holds up well in normal indoor conditions. Over 6,000 reviewers rate this crate at 4.5 stars, with many praising the quick assembly and the secure locking mechanism.
The divider panel is the real selling point for puppy owners. You get 48 inches of total length, which you can section off to whatever size your growing bull terrier needs. Start small for a 12-week-old puppy and gradually expand the space as your dog reaches adult size.

Who Should Buy This Crate
The FDW is perfect for bull terrier puppy owners who want a crate that will last from puppyhood through adulthood. The 48-inch size combined with the divider panel means you buy once and adjust as your dog grows. It is also a great choice for anyone who needs a larger crate but wants to avoid heavy, hard-to-move options.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
The wire gauge on the FDW is lighter than on premium brands like MidWest’s LifeStages line. If your bull terrier is a heavy chewer or has a history of bending wire crates, this one may not hold up. The wire floor under the tray can also be uncomfortable for some dogs without proper bedding. Always use a crate pad or blanket with this type of floor.
8. MidWest Homes for Pets 48-Inch LifeStages Crate – Best XL Wire Crate
- Heavier gauge wire than standard crates
- Divider panel for growing puppies
- Leak-proof tray
- Tool-free assembly
- Rounded safety clips
- Single door only
- Divider can be difficult to install
The MidWest LifeStages 48-inch crate is the big brother to the iCrate at the top of this list. The key difference is that this crate uses a heavier gauge wire, making it more resistant to bending and chewing. For a bull terrier in the 65 to 80-pound range, this 48-inch size provides generous room and the stronger wire adds a meaningful layer of durability.
MidWest Homes for Pets is a family-owned business with over 100 years of pet product experience, and it shows in the details. The precision welding, rounded corner clips, and slide-bolt latch with Paw Block all add up to a crate that feels more solid than typical wire options. The leak-proof tray slides out for cleaning, and rubber feet protect your floors from scratches.

With over 12,000 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, the LifeStages crate has earned its reputation. Many reviewers note that this crate lasts for years, even with strong, active dogs. The single door design is simpler than double-door models, which some owners actually prefer because there are fewer latches to worry about.
The tool-free assembly means you can set this up in minutes straight out of the box. The folding design allows for flat storage when the crate is not in use. At 47.6 pounds, it is heavier than basic wire crates but still manageable for one person to move.

Who Should Buy This Crate
The LifeStages 48-inch crate is ideal for larger bull terriers that need more space than a 42-inch crate provides but do not require a heavy duty steel enclosure. If your dog is well-behaved in a crate and you want something that will last for years, the heavier wire gauge on this model adds real longevity. It is also a solid choice for older bull terriers that just need a comfortable, familiar space.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
The single door design limits placement flexibility compared to double-door models. If you need to position the crate in a tight corner, you might find the access angle awkward. Also, while the heavier wire is stronger than standard crates, it is still wire. For extreme escape artists, a steel-framed heavy duty crate is the safer choice.
9. SMONTER 42-Inch Heavy Duty Dog Crate – Y-Pattern Anti-Escape Kennel
- Y-pattern design prevents biting and escape
- Upgraded anti-escape plug lock
- 360-degree rotating locking casters
- Top opening for easy access
- 3-year warranty
- Pin locks may not align perfectly
- Holes large enough for paws to stick through
- Heavy and hard to assemble alone
The SMONTER crate stands out because of its unique Y-pattern steel bar design. This is not just an aesthetic choice. The Y-pattern makes it extremely difficult for a bull terrier to get their jaws around the bars to chew or bend them. For dogs that bite and pull at crate bars, this design effectively neutralizes that behavior.
The upgraded anti-escape plug lock system is more secure than standard slide bolts. It requires a specific motion to release, which dogs cannot replicate. At 82 pounds, this is one of the heavier crates in the roundup, but the 360-degree rotating locking casters make it possible to roll it around for cleaning or repositioning.

The top opening door is generous and allows you to reach in comfortably to interact with your bull terrier. The removable slide-out plastic tray handles cleanup, though some owners note that the tray only covers about half the crate floor. The non-toxic finished surface is safe for dogs and resists rust over time.
SMONTER backs this crate with a 3-year warranty, which is longer than most competitors offer. That warranty speaks to their confidence in the construction. Over 3,300 reviewers have rated this crate, with many specifically mentioning success with pit bulls, mastiffs, and other strong breeds.

Who Should Buy This Crate
The SMONTER is the right choice for bull terrier owners dealing with a dog that chews on crate bars. The Y-pattern design specifically addresses this behavior in a way that no other crate on this list does. If you have tried heavy duty crates but your dog still damages the bars, the Y-pattern is your next logical step.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
The gaps between the Y-pattern bars are large enough for paws and snouts to poke through. While this provides ventilation, it can be a concern if your bull terrier is the type to stick paws out and scratch at surrounding surfaces. The assembly can also be challenging if the pin locks do not align perfectly, so having a second person to help is recommended.
10. MidWest Solutions 54-Inch Drop Pin Crate – Best for Extra Space
Solutions by Midwest 54-Inch Single Door Crate, Giant Breed Dogs, 100+ lbs
- Massive 54-inch size for largest dogs
- Drop-pin construction for maximum stability
- Reinforced L-bar support
- Protective e-coat finish
- Open wire for ventilation
- Divider panel not included
- Very heavy and bulky
- Requires significant floor space
The MidWest Solutions 54-inch crate is the largest option in this roundup, and it is designed for giant breeds. While most bull terriers do not need a crate this big, there are scenarios where it makes sense. If you have an exceptionally large bull terrier, if you want to fit a large orthopedic bed inside, or if you plan to use the crate for multiple dogs, the 54 by 37 by 45 inch dimensions give you room to work with.
The drop-pin construction is different from the folding wire crate design. Drop-pin crates use metal pins to connect the panels, creating a more rigid and stable structure. The reinforced L-bar adds structural integrity that folding crates simply cannot match. This crate does not fold down, so it is a permanent fixture in whatever room you place it.

The protective black e-coat finish resists rust and corrosion, which helps the crate maintain its appearance over years of use. The rubber roller feet protect your floors and keep the crate from sliding. The open wire design provides excellent ventilation and visibility, so your bull terrier never feels isolated or confined in a dark space.
As the number one best seller in its category, this crate has been tested by thousands of owners of giant breeds including Great Danes, Mastiffs, and Saint Bernards. The build quality is proven at a scale far beyond what a bull terrier can dish out.

Who Should Buy This Crate
The 54-inch crate is for bull terrier owners who have the floor space and want to give their dog maximum room. If your bull terrier will be spending extended periods in the crate during the day, the extra space helps reduce stress. It is also a good option if you want to use the crate as a combined sleeping and feeding station with room for a bed, water bowl, and toys.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
This crate does not include a divider panel, so it is not ideal for puppy training unless you buy a separate divider. The lack of a folding mechanism means once it is assembled, it stays assembled. At nearly 82 pounds and 54 inches long, this is a serious piece of furniture that dominates any room. Most bull terriers will be perfectly comfortable in a 42 or 48-inch crate, making this overkill for many owners.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Crate for Your Bull Terrier
Choosing a crate for a bull terrier involves more than just picking a size. This breed has specific needs that make some crates far more suitable than others. Here is what I have learned from testing these crates and talking to bull terrier owners.
Crate Size Requirements for Bull Terriers
Most adult standard bull terriers weigh between 50 and 70 pounds and measure about 22 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder. A 42-inch crate works well for the majority of standard bull terriers, giving them room to stand, turn, and lie down. Larger individuals in the 70 to 85-pound range will be more comfortable in a 48-inch crate. Staffordshire bull terriers, which are smaller at 24 to 38 pounds, can use a 36-inch crate.
To measure your bull terrier for a crate, measure from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail while standing, then add 2 to 4 inches. For height, measure from the floor to the top of their head while standing and add 2 to 4 inches. Your dog should be able to stand fully upright without touching the top and lie down fully stretched out.
Wire Crates vs. Heavy Duty Steel Crates
Wire crates like the MidWest iCrate and Amazon Basics are great for most bull terriers that accept crating without a fight. They are lighter, more affordable, and fold flat for storage. The open wire design provides ventilation and lets your dog see their surroundings, which reduces anxiety. However, a determined bull terrier can bend wire bars and manipulate simple latches.
Heavy duty steel crates like the LEMBERI, BOLDBONE, and SMONTER are built from thick steel tubing with advanced latch systems. They cost more and weigh significantly more, but they will contain almost any bull terrier. If your dog has separation anxiety, is an escape artist, or chews on crate bars, the extra investment in a heavy duty crate saves money in the long run because you will not be replacing destroyed wire crates.
Key Features to Look For
Divider panels are essential if you are crate training a bull terrier puppy. They let you shrink the interior space so the puppy does not use one end as a bathroom and the other as a bedroom. As your puppy grows, you expand the space gradually. Most wire crates in this roundup include dividers, but heavy duty models often do not.
Double-door designs give you more placement options. With both a front and side door, you can tuck the crate into a corner and still access it easily. Removable trays are standard across all these crates, but look for ones that slide out rather than lift out, as they are easier to clean.
For heavy duty crates, lockable caster wheels are a valuable feature. These crates weigh 60 to 82 pounds, so being able to roll them makes a real difference when you need to clean underneath or rearrange your space.
Understanding Your Bull Terrier’s Behavior
Bull terriers are strong-willed, energetic, and incredibly loyal. They form deep attachments to their owners, which can manifest as separation anxiety when left alone. This is one of the main reasons bull terrier owners need crates. A crate provides a safe, enclosed space that can actually reduce anxiety when introduced properly.
The breed also has powerful jaws and a tendency to chew, especially when bored or anxious. A bull terrier can destroy a fabric or thin plastic crate in minutes. Even standard wire crates can fall victim to a determined chewer. This is why I have included multiple heavy duty options in this roundup. Matching the crate’s durability to your dog’s behavior is critical.
Bull terrier puppies benefit enormously from crate training. The crate becomes their personal den, a place where they feel safe and secure. Start crate training as early as possible, ideally at 8 to 10 weeks of age. Use positive reinforcement with treats and meals inside the crate, and never use the crate as punishment.
FAQs
What size crate does a Bull Terrier need?
Most standard Bull Terriers need a 42-inch crate, which provides enough room to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Larger Bull Terriers in the 70-85 pound range should use a 48-inch crate. Staffordshire Bull Terriers, which are smaller at 24-38 pounds, do well in 36-inch crates. Always measure your individual dog from nose to tail base and add 2-4 inches to determine the ideal length.
How to crate train a Bull Terrier?
Start crate training your Bull Terrier puppy at 8-10 weeks old. Begin by placing treats and meals inside the crate with the door open. Gradually increase the time the door stays closed, starting with just a few minutes. Use a divider panel to keep the space small for puppies. Never use the crate as punishment. Be patient and consistent. Bull Terriers can be stubborn, so positive reinforcement with high-value treats works best. Most puppies adjust within 1-2 weeks with daily short sessions.
Is a Bull Terrier a medium or large dog?
A standard Bull Terrier is considered a medium-to-large dog. They typically weigh 50-70 pounds and stand about 21-22 inches tall at the shoulder. This puts them between medium and large categories, which is why crate sizing can be tricky. Miniature Bull Terriers are smaller at 18-28 pounds and are classified as medium dogs. For crate purposes, treat standard Bull Terriers as large dogs and size up if your individual dog is on the bigger side.
What is crate syndrome?
Crate syndrome refers to a condition where a dog develops physical or behavioral problems from being crated for too long. Symptoms include muscle atrophy, anxiety, depression, and destructive behavior. Bull Terriers are active dogs that need daily exercise and should not be crated for more than 4-6 hours at a time during the day. Puppies under 6 months should not be crated for more than 2-3 hours. Always ensure your dog gets plenty of exercise and social time outside the crate.
Is a 36 inch crate big enough for a Bull Terrier?
A 36-inch crate is generally too small for a standard adult Bull Terrier. Standard Bull Terriers weigh 50-70 pounds and need at least a 42-inch crate to stand and turn comfortably. However, a 36-inch crate works well for Staffordshire Bull Terriers and Bull Terrier puppies under 6 months. If you are buying a crate for a puppy, choose a 42-inch crate with a divider panel so it can grow with your dog rather than buying a smaller crate you will need to replace.
Final Thoughts on Dog Crates for Bull Terriers
Finding the right crate for your bull terrier comes down to understanding your individual dog’s behavior and needs. For most standard bull terriers that accept crating without issues, the MidWest 42-inch iCrate offers the best combination of size, features, and value. If you are on a tighter budget, the Amazon Basics 42-inch crate performs almost identically for less.
For bull terriers with separation anxiety or escape tendencies, investing in a heavy duty crate like the LEMBERI or BOLDBONE will save you money and stress in the long run. These steel-framed kennels are virtually indestructible and feature advanced latching systems that outsmart even the most determined dogs. The SMONTER’s Y-pattern design is specifically worth considering if your dog chews on crate bars.
Whichever crate you choose, remember that successful crate training depends on patience and positive reinforcement. Start slow, use high-value treats, and make the crate a positive space your bull terrier actually wants to enter. With the right crate and consistent training, your bull terrier will have a safe, comfortable den that keeps them secure when you cannot be right by their side.






