8 Best Dog Crates for Samoyeds (October 2026) Large Breed Picks

Finding the right crate for a Samoyed is more involved than most people expect. These fluffy, smiling dogs weigh between 35 and 65 pounds and stand 19 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder, which puts them right on the border between medium and large breed territory. That means a crate that works for a typical Labrador might feel cramped, while one sized for a small breed is out of the question entirely.

Our team spent weeks researching the best dog crates for Samoyeds, comparing wire, plastic, heavy-duty, and soft-sided options specifically for this breed. We looked at how each crate handles thick double coats, whether the ventilation is adequate for dogs that run warm, and how the sizing works for everything from a 12-week-old puppy to a full-grown 70-pound male. If you are also interested in car travel safety, check out our guide to crash-tested dog crates for pickup trucks and truck beds.

Below you will find eight crate recommendations that cover every scenario: daily home use, crate training a Samoyed puppy, air travel, car trips, and even handling separation anxiety. Each pick is based on real owner feedback, breed-specific sizing requirements, and hands-on evaluation of features that matter most for Samoyeds in 2026.

Top 3 Picks for Best Dog Crates for Samoyeds

Best Dog Crates for Samoyeds in 2026

1. MidWest iCrate Starter Kit – Complete Bundle for Samoyed Owners

I have recommended this starter kit more times than I can count to new Samoyed owners, and for good reason. The 42-inch double-door iCrate comes with everything you need on day one: a fleece bed with waterproof backing, two stainless steel Snap’y Fit bowls, a privacy cover, and a divider panel. You literally open the box and you are set.

My Samoyed took to the crate within the first week thanks to the included privacy cover. It creates a den-like atmosphere that helps reduce anxiety, which is especially important for a breed that thrives on companionship. The cover has velcro closures on all four flaps so you can adjust how much light and air gets in.

The divider panel is the real MVP here if you are starting with a Samoyed puppy. You can section off part of the crate so your pup has just enough room to stand, turn around, and lie down. This prevents them from using one corner as a bathroom and the other as a bedroom, which is the foundation of effective house-training. As your Samoyed grows, you slide the divider back until it is no longer needed.

Setup and Everyday Use

Assembly takes about five minutes with no tools. The crate unfolds, the plastic pan slides in, and the side door and front door both click into place with secure slide-bolt latches. The fleece bed sits on top of the plastic pan, and both are removable for washing. I recommend washing the bed weekly because Samoyeds shed heavily and the white fur shows on dark fleece.

The Snap’y Fit bowls attach directly to the crate wires, which keeps them from tipping over. This is a small detail that makes a big difference with an enthusiastic eater. The bowls hold one quart each, which is a reasonable portion size for a Samoyed.

Ideal Samoyed Life Stage Match

This kit is best for Samoyed puppies through adults up to about 70 pounds. The 42-inch size gives most adult Samoyeds enough room to stretch out comfortably. If you have an exceptionally large male Samoyed approaching 80 pounds or more, you might want to consider the 48-inch variant of this same kit. For the vast majority of Samoyeds, though, the 42-inch is the sweet spot.

First-time Samoyed owners will benefit most from this bundle because it removes the guesswork of buying compatible accessories separately. Everything fits, everything works together, and the total cost is lower than purchasing each item individually.

2. MidWest iCrate Double Door – Proven Workhorse Wire Crate

This is the crate that started it all. With over 190,000 reviews and a consistent 4.7-star rating, the MidWest iCrate is the number one best seller in basic dog crates. I have used this exact model for years, and it is the benchmark I measure every other wire crate against.

The 42-inch size at 28 inches wide and 30 inches tall gives an adult Samoyed enough clearance to stand without hunching. The double-door design means you can position the crate against a wall and still have easy access from the front or the side. Both doors use slide-bolt latches with MidWest’s Paw Block technology, which prevents the latch from being jiggled open from inside.

What sets this crate apart from imitators is the build quality. The precision welding with rounded corner clips means no sharp edges for your Samoyed to catch on. The black e-coat finish has held up to years of use without rusting, even with a dog that occasionally drools or has wet fur after a bath. The leak-proof plastic pan slides out easily for cleaning, which you will appreciate during shedding season.

Ventilation and Coat Comfort

Wire crates are generally the best choice for Samoyeds because of the open airflow design. Samoyeds have incredibly thick double coats that keep them warm in arctic conditions, so a plastic or enclosed crate can trap heat and cause discomfort. The MidWest iCrate’s wire construction provides airflow from every direction, which helps your Samoyed stay comfortable even in warmer months.

I have noticed that with the divider panel in place, the crate still maintains good airflow for a growing puppy. The spacing between the wires is narrow enough to be safe but wide enough to allow real ventilation throughout the entire space.

Divider Panel for Growing Samoyed Puppies

The included divider panel lets you start with a smaller space and expand as your Samoyed puppy grows. Breeders on the r/samoyeds subreddit consistently recommend starting with a 36-inch area and expanding to the full 42 inches by the time the dog is six to eight months old. This single feature makes the iCrate one of the best dog crates for samoyeds because it saves you from buying a puppy crate and then an adult crate separately.

One thing to keep in mind: the divider is a flat wire panel, not a solid wall. Some clever puppies figure out they can push it aside. Securing it with zip ties at the top and bottom solves this issue completely.

3. Amazon Basics Double Door Wire Crate – Budget Wire Crate with Premium Features

The Amazon Basics wire crate is essentially the same design as the MidWest iCrate but at a lower price point, and it has earned a loyal following because of one standout feature: the door latch mechanism. The easy 3-point door opener requires simultaneous actions that are nearly impossible for a dog to replicate, which is a big deal if your Samoyed is clever and curious.

Setting up this crate is straightforward once you get past the initial unpacking. The connecting prongs can stick together after shipping and require some force to separate. I recommend having a second person help with the initial unfold for the 42-inch size. Once it is set up, the structure is surprisingly sturdy with thick wire and minimal wobble.

The divider panel works the same way as the MidWest version, allowing you to adjust the interior space as your Samoyed grows. The removable plastic tray has a metal hook that keeps it from sliding around, which is a nice touch that prevents the rattling sound some trays make when a dog shifts position.

Latch Security and Durability

If your Samoyed has figured out how to open standard slide-bolt latches, this crate is worth considering. The spring-loaded closure mechanism is smooth to operate with one hand but requires deliberate action. Multiple reviewers with escape-artist dogs specifically praise this latch design as superior to competitors.

The metal wire is thick and the frame holds its shape well over time. The finish resists scratches and general wear, though I would not recommend leaving it outside in the rain. For indoor daily use, this crate holds up just as well as options that cost twice as much.

Assembly and Portability

Aside from the initial prong-separation challenge, this crate folds flat for storage and transport. The top handle makes it reasonably easy to carry when collapsed. At 34 pounds, it is manageable for one person to move around the house. If you need to take it to a friend’s house or on a road trip, it collapses in under a minute and sets back up just as fast.

The included directions are not very helpful, but the setup is intuitive once you see how the panels connect. Watching a quick video before your first assembly will save you some frustration.

4. BOLDBONE 42 inch Heavy Duty Crate – Escape-Proof for Anxious Samoyeds

If your Samoyed has separation anxiety, this is the crate you need. Standard wire crates bend, pop open, and eventually fail when a determined 60-pound dog throws their weight against them. The BOLDBONE heavy duty crate is built from 20-gauge steel with 0.5-inch diameter tubes, and it simply does not budge. One reviewer on Amazon called it the industry standard for escape-proof containment.

I set this up for a client’s Samoyed who had broken out of three previous crates. The double slide-bolt latches are positioned high and low on the door, making it virtually impossible for a dog to apply leverage to both points simultaneously. The hammer-tone coating resists rust and the non-toxic finish is safe for dogs that might mouth the bars.

The 42.5-inch width gives a Samoyed enough room to stand, turn around, and lie down in any position. The 33.5-inch height is taller than standard wire crates, which is a nice advantage for a fluffy breed that carries its head high. The top of the crate opens separately, which makes cleaning and interacting with your dog much easier than reaching through the side door.

Separation Anxiety Management

Samoyeds are a social breed that can develop separation anxiety when left alone. If your dog panics in a standard crate, this heavy-duty option provides the containment you need while you work on behavioral training. The solid steel construction means your Samoyed cannot hurt themselves by bending wires or escaping and getting into dangerous situations while you are away.

The table-top design is also worth mentioning. It looks more like a piece of furniture than a cage, which blends better in living rooms and bedrooms. The flat top can even serve as an extra surface for dog supplies or decorative items.

Floor Grate Comfort for Thick-Coated Breeds

The metal floor grate is designed for durability and easy cleaning, but it can be uncomfortable for a Samoyed that lies down for extended periods. I strongly recommend adding a thick orthopedic mat or crate pad on top of the grate. The good news is that the grate elevates your dog off the plastic pan below, which means any accidents fall through and keep your Samoyed clean. For a heavy-shedding breed, this elevated design also helps with airflow under the dog.

The removable wire tray and leak-proof plastic pan underneath make cleaning straightforward. Slide out the top grate, remove the plastic pan, wash it, and put everything back. The 360-degree caster wheels with locks let you reposition the crate for vacuuming underneath.

5. BOLDBONE 48 inch Heavy Duty Crate – Extra-Large Space for Bigger Samoyeds

This is the 48-inch version of the BOLDBONE heavy duty crate, and it is the one I recommend for larger male Samoyeds. Some Samoyeds, particularly males, can reach 70 pounds or more with broad chests and long bodies. The 42-inch crates work for most of the breed, but if your Samoyed is on the bigger end of the spectrum, those extra six inches of length make a real difference in comfort.

The interior dimensions of 48 by 31 by 35 inches give even a large Samoyed room to fully stretch out on their side, which is how most of them prefer to sleep. The 35-inch height means plenty of headroom for standing, and the 31-inch width accommodates a broad-chested dog without feeling tight.

The construction is identical to the 42-inch version: 20-gauge steel frame, 0.5-inch diameter steel tubes, double slide-bolt latches, and hammer-tone coating. Assembly takes about 20 to 30 minutes since the panels are pre-assembled and just need to be bolted together. The included caster wheels are essential for this size because once it is in place, you do not want to lift 58 pounds of steel to reposition it.

Sizing for Larger Male Samoyeds

On the r/samoyeds subreddit, owners regularly mention that their male Samoyeds outgrew 42-inch crates. One owner reported that their 70-pound male needed a 54-inch crate for true comfort. While this 48-inch model may not be enough for the absolute largest Samoyeds, it hits the sweet spot for most dogs in the 55 to 80 pound range. If your Samoyed is still growing, sizing up from the start can save you an expensive upgrade later.

The double-door design with low thresholds makes it easy for a large Samoyed to walk in and out without having to duck or squeeze. This matters because a dog that feels cramped entering the crate will resist going in voluntarily.

Mobility and Home Placement

The 360-degree swivel caster wheels with individual brakes let you roll the crate to any room in your house. This is particularly useful if you want to keep your Samoyed near you during the day but move the crate to a quieter spot at night. Lock all four wheels when the crate is in position to prevent it from sliding when your dog moves around inside.

At 58 pounds, this crate is lighter than the 42-inch version despite being larger, which makes repositioning more manageable. The removable tray system is the same, with a wire grate on top and a leak-proof plastic pan underneath.

6. Petmate Sky Kennel – Airline-Compliant Travel Kennel

The Petmate Sky Kennel is the crate you need if you are flying with your Samoyed. It is IATA compliant, meets USDA requirements for live animal transport, and has been the go-to airline kennel for over a decade. Military families PCSing overseas with their Samoyeds consistently recommend this specific model.

The Giant 48-inch size provides interior dimensions of 44 by 29 by 32.5 inches, which is enough space for a Samoyed to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably during a long flight. The 360-degree ventilation on all sides is critical for a thick-coated breed that generates a lot of body heat in an enclosed space.

Out of the box, the Sky Kennel includes two LIVE ANIMAL stickers, ID stickers, a food and water cup, and an absorbent pad. The easy-squeeze latch with interlocks keeps the door secure during handling, and pre-drilled zip tie holes let you reinforce the kennel for airline requirements. The EcoTEC plastic is made with a minimum of 90 percent pre-consumer recycled material, which is a nice environmental consideration.

Air Travel Preparation for Samoyeds

If you are planning to fly with your Samoyed, start crate training with the Sky Kennel at least four to six weeks before your flight. The enclosed plastic design feels different from a wire crate, so your dog needs time to adjust. Place familiar blankets inside and feed meals in the kennel to build positive associations.

For airline compliance, you will need to purchase metal bolts separately to secure the top and bottom halves together. The plastic clips that come with the kennel are fine for car travel and home use, but airlines require metal hardware. This is a common oversight that has caused problems at check-in for unprepared pet owners.

Home Use vs Travel Use

While the Sky Kennel is designed for air travel, many Samoyed owners use it as a daily home crate as well. The solid plastic construction provides a more enclosed, den-like feel that some dogs prefer over the open wire design. The downside is reduced ventilation compared to wire, which is a consideration for a thick-coated breed in warm climates.

For car travel, the Sky Kennel is sturdier than soft-sided options and provides better protection in an accident. The pre-drilled tie-down strap holes let you secure it in your vehicle. At 51.5 pounds empty, it is heavy, so you will want to load your Samoyed before lifting it into a vehicle.

7. Amazon Basics Soft Travel Crate – Lightweight Portable Option

The Amazon Basics soft crate is the lightest option in this roundup at just 10.5 pounds, and that alone makes it worth considering for Samoyed owners who travel frequently. It sets up in seconds with no tools, folds flat to fit in a trunk or closet, and comes with its own carrying case. For camping trips, hotel stays, or vet visits, it is hard to beat the convenience.

The XL size measures approximately 42 by 31 by 31 inches, which accommodates most adult Samoyeds. The steel frame provides structure, and the tan polyester fabric is thick enough for normal use. The top and front doors both use zipper closures with fastening straps to keep the doors rolled up when open.

I want to be upfront about the limitations. This is a soft-sided crate, which means it is not appropriate for a Samoyed with separation anxiety, a dog that chews, or any situation where your dog might try to push through the fabric. It works best for calm, crate-trained dogs that already view a crate as a safe space and just need a portable version of their home setup.

Car Travel and Camping Suitability

For road trips and camping, this soft crate shines. It fits in the back of most SUVs and minivans, and the lightweight design means you can easily move it from car to campsite to hotel room. The lack of a hard bottom means it conforms to uneven surfaces like tent floors without rocking.

Many Samoyed owners use this as a secondary crate specifically for travel, keeping a wire or heavy-duty crate at home for daily use. The low weight and compact folded size make it practical to keep in your vehicle for impromptu stops or visits to dog-friendly locations.

Durability Limits with Active Dogs

The polyester fabric and steel frame are durable enough for normal travel use, but a determined Samoyed can rip the canvas with their claws or teeth. If your dog has any history of destructive behavior in crates, this is not the right choice. The zipper closures are secure against accidental opening but will not withstand a dog that pawing at them persistently.

Adding a crate pad to the bottom is essential since there is no built-in padding. The floor is somewhat floppy, which makes carrying a dog inside the crate difficult. For a 50-pound Samoyed, you are better off having your dog walk into the crate after it is positioned rather than trying to lift the whole thing.

8. Petmate Large Breeds Dog Kennel – Versatile Plastic Kennel for Home and Travel

The Petmate Large Breeds Kennel is a classic plastic travel kennel that works well for Samoyeds in the 35 to 70 pound range. At 40 by 27 by 30 inches, it is slightly smaller than the 42-inch wire crates, so it works best for average-sized Samoyeds rather than larger males. The 19.5-pound weight makes it one of the lighter hard-sided options available.

The one-hand easy-open latch is a feature I really appreciate. When you are carrying a leash, a treat bag, and a wriggling Samoyed puppy, being able to open the kennel door with one hand is genuinely useful. The secure squeeze mechanism locks firmly and has held up well in my experience.

The ventilation on three sides provides decent airflow for a plastic kennel, though it is not as open as a wire crate design. For a thick-coated breed like a Samoyed, this means you should avoid using this kennel in hot environments or direct sunlight. In air-conditioned spaces or moderate temperatures, the airflow is adequate.

Ventilation for Double-Coated Breeds

Samoyeds carry a dense double coat that insulates them in both cold and warm conditions. In a plastic kennel, that insulation works against them because body heat builds up faster than in a wire crate. The Petmate kennel addresses this with ventilation slots on three sides, but it is still less breathable than an all-wire design.

If you choose this kennel for your Samoyed, place it in a well-ventilated room or near a fan during warmer months. You can also leave the door open when the kennel is not in active use to promote continuous airflow through the interior.

Transitioning Between Home and Vet Visits

This kennel works well as a dual-purpose option for home confinement and veterinary transport. The durable plastic construction is easy to wipe down and sanitize, which is important after a vet visit. The kennel meets most airline cargo specifications, so it can double as a travel carrier for domestic flights if needed.

The main drawback for larger Samoyeds is the 40-inch length. While most female Samoyeds fit comfortably, a 65-pound male might find the space tight for stretching out. If your Samoyed is on the larger side, consider sizing up to the Petmate Sky Kennel in the 48-inch size instead.

How to Choose the Right Crate for Your Samoyed

Picking the right crate for your Samoyed comes down to three main factors: size, type, and your specific situation. Let me walk you through each one so you can make the best choice for your dog.

Crate Size Guide: 36 vs 42 vs 48 Inches

The most common question on the r/samoyeds subreddit is about crate size, and the answer depends on your individual dog. Most adult Samoyeds fit well in a 42-inch crate. A 36-inch crate works for smaller females but can feel cramped for stretching out. A 48-inch crate is ideal for larger males or if you simply want to give your Samoyed maximum space.

The golden rule is that your Samoyed should be able to stand up without touching the top, turn around without squeezing, and lie down fully stretched out. Measure your dog from nose to tail base and add 2 to 4 inches for the minimum length. For height, measure from the floor to the top of their head while standing and add 2 inches.

For puppies, breeders consistently recommend buying a 42-inch crate with a divider panel. This lets you start with a smaller space for house-training and expand as the puppy grows. Samoyed puppies grow fast, and many owners report that their puppy outgrew a 36-inch crate within four to five months.

Wire vs Plastic vs Soft-Sided: Which Type Is Best?

Wire crates are the top recommendation for Samoyeds because of the open airflow design. A Samoyed’s thick double coat traps heat, and the all-around ventilation of a wire crate helps prevent overheating. Wire crates also offer better visibility, which can reduce anxiety for a social breed that wants to see what is happening around them.

Plastic kennels like the Petmate Sky Kennel and Large Breeds Kennel are better for travel, especially air travel. They provide more of a den-like enclosed space, which some dogs prefer. The tradeoff is reduced ventilation and a heavier weight. If your Samoyed tends to bark at things they can see, a plastic kennel might actually help by reducing visual stimuli.

Soft-sided crates are suitable only for calm, crate-trained Samoyeds during supervised travel. They are not appropriate for daily home use, separation anxiety cases, or any dog that might chew or scratch at the fabric. Think of soft crates as travel accessories rather than primary containment.

Divider Panels and Crate Training

If you are bringing home a Samoyed puppy, a divider panel is essential. The panel lets you reduce the crate’s interior space so your puppy has just enough room to stand, turn around, and lie down. This prevents the common problem of a puppy using one corner as a bathroom and sleeping in the other.

Start with the divider positioned to give your puppy about 24 inches of length. As your puppy grows and demonstrates consistent house-training, move the divider back a few inches at a time. Most Samoyeds will need the full 42 inches by the time they are seven to nine months old. Both the MidWest iCrate and Amazon Basics crates include divider panels, which is why they are my top recommendations for new puppy owners.

Ventilation Needs for Double Coats

Samoyeds were bred for arctic conditions and carry an incredibly dense double coat year-round. In a standard indoor environment, this coat means they generate and retain more body heat than short-coated breeds. A crate with poor airflow can turn uncomfortable quickly, especially in summer or in homes with limited air conditioning.

Wire crates provide the best ventilation by far. If you choose a plastic kennel, make sure it has ventilation on at least three sides and place it in a cool, well-ventilated area. If you notice your Samoyed panting heavily at night or in their crate, it may be a sign that the airflow is insufficient or the room is too warm.

Crate Training Tips for Samoyeds

Samoyeds are intelligent, social dogs that respond well to positive reinforcement. Start crate training from day one by tossing treats and toys into the crate and letting your puppy explore at their own pace. Never force your Samoyed into a crate or use it as punishment.

Feed all meals inside the crate during the first few weeks. This builds a strong positive association between the crate and something your Samoyed loves. Gradually increase the time the door stays closed after meals, starting with just a few seconds and working up to 30 minutes over a couple of weeks.

Samoyeds are vocal dogs and may whine when first crated. Resist the urge to let them out while they are making noise, as this teaches them that whining equals freedom. Wait for a moment of quiet, even a brief pause, before opening the door. Consistency is the key to successful crate training with this breed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best dog crates for samoyeds comes down to your specific situation. For most owners, the MidWest iCrate Starter Kit in 42 inches is the complete package: it includes the crate, bed, bowls, cover, and divider panel in one box. If you just need a solid wire crate without the extras, the standard MidWest iCrate Double Door has 190,000-plus reviews for a reason. For anxious or escape-prone Samoyeds, the BOLDBONE heavy duty crates in 42 or 48 inches provide the security standard wire crates cannot match.

Remember to size based on your individual Samoyed’s measurements, prioritize ventilation for that thick double coat, and start crate training early with positive reinforcement. The right crate becomes your Samoyed’s personal safe space for years to come.