Finding a solid dog crate does not mean emptying your wallet. After testing dozens of models, our team narrowed down the best dog crates under $120 that actually hold up to daily use, puppy chewing, and the occasional mess. Whether you need a wire crate for training, a soft-sided option for travel, or a furniture-style piece that blends into your living room, this guide covers eight options that earned their spot.
We spent weeks comparing construction quality, ease of assembly, and real owner feedback across thousands of reviews. The 2026 lineup includes everything from the number one best-selling MidWest iCrate to budget-friendly picks under $40 that surprised us with their build quality. Every crate on this list comes in under the $120 mark while still delivering the features that matter.
If your dog is on the larger side, you may also want to check our guide to dog crates for large breeds beyond this budget. For apartment dwellers, our roundup of space-saving dog crates covers compact options that fit tight floor plans. For now, let us start with our top three picks.
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Top 3 Picks for Best Dog Crates Under $120 in 2026
These three crates stood out across our testing for different reasons. The MidWest iCrate earned the top spot for its proven track record, while the Amazon Basics wire crate delivers exceptional value for the features. The Sweetcrispy rounds out the trio as the most affordable option that still checks the important boxes.
MidWest iCrate 42-Inch
- 42-inch folding crate
- Divider panel
- Leak-proof tray
- Slide-bolt latch
Amazon Basics Wire 36-Inch
- 36-inch double door
- Folding metal wire
- Removable tray
- Divider panel
Sweetcrispy 36-Inch Dog Crate
- Double door
- Sliding bolt locks
- ABS leak-proof tray
- Collapsible
Best Dog Crates Under $120 in 2026
Here is a side-by-side look at all eight crates we reviewed. Compare key features at a glance before diving into the individual reviews below.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| MidWest iCrate 42-Inch |
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| Amazon Basics Wire 36-Inch |
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| Sweetcrispy 36-Inch |
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 FDW Extra Large 48-Inch |
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 Yaheetech 42-Inch Double Door |
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 Amazon Basics Soft 30-Inch |
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 Hzuaneri Wooden Furniture Crate |
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 Petmate Sky Kennel 28-Inch |
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1. MidWest Homes for Pets 42-Inch iCrate — Best Overall for Large Breeds
- Sturdy metal wire construction
- Easy fold and unfold assembly
- Divider panel for crate training
- Leak-proof removable tray
- Protective e-coat finish prevents rust
- Some difficulty with initial assembly
- Divider panel may be too small for some puppies
The MidWest iCrate has been the go-to budget crate for dog owners since 2007, and after testing it ourselves, we understand why it sits at number one in Basic Dog Crates. Our team set this up for a 75-pound Labrador, and the 42-inch model gave him plenty of room to stand, turn, and stretch out. The folding design means you can collapse it flat in under two minutes without any tools.
What sets this crate apart is the included divider panel. If you are crate training a puppy, you can section off part of the crate so your pup has just enough room to lie down comfortably. This prevents them from using one end as a bathroom, which is one of the most common crate training mistakes new owners make.
The leak-proof plastic tray slides out from the bottom for easy cleaning. We spilled water and had a couple of accidents during testing, and the tray contained everything without any seepage onto the floor. The black e-coat finish on the wire has held up well against rust, even after our test dog drooled extensively on the bars.
The slide-bolt latch with Paw Block adds a layer of security that cheaper crates skip entirely. Our test dog pushed against the door repeatedly without budging it. After comparing this against other best dog crates under $120, the iCrate combination of over 111,000 reviews and a 4.7-star rating tells you everything about its long-term reliability.
What Dog Sizes Fit the 42-Inch iCrate
The 42-inch model is designed for dogs between 71 and 90 pounds, measuring 42.5 x 28.5 x 30.5 inches internally. Breeds like Labradors, German Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers fit comfortably with room to spare. If your dog is over 90 pounds, you will want to look at larger options outside this guide.
The divider panel makes this crate work for puppies too. Start with a small section and expand as your dog grows into their full size. This means one crate can last from puppyhood through adulthood, which adds serious long-term value.
Long-Term Durability and Maintenance
Forum users on r/dogs consistently name the MidWest iCrate as the crate they recommend most for budget buyers. Many owners report theirs lasting five-plus years with daily use without structural issues. The e-coat finish resists rust, and replacement trays are available separately if the original ever cracks.
Regular maintenance is simple and quick. Wipe down the wire with a damp cloth and slide out the tray for deeper cleaning. The rubber feet protect your floors from scratches, and the carry handle makes repositioning easy even when the crate is fully assembled.
2. Amazon Basics Portable Folding Metal Wire Dog Crate — Best Value
- Sturdy construction at good price
- Easy fold and unfold setup
- Double door for flexible placement
- Removable tray for easy cleaning
- 3-point door handle hard for dogs to open
- Not Prime eligible
- Some report bent wires on delivery
- Initial untangling can be difficult
The Amazon Basics 36-inch wire crate brings double-door convenience at a price that makes it one of the best values we tested. Our team set this up in a corner where a single-door crate would not have worked, and the side door made all the difference for easy access. The 36-inch size is ideal for medium breeds between 30 and 50 pounds.
Assembly takes about ten minutes the first time you do it. The crate ships flat and folds out into shape, though you may need to untangle some wires initially. Once set up, the construction feels solid for the price point with thick enough wire for everyday containment.
The removable plastic base tray is a nice touch at this price level. It slides out from the side for cleaning, and a metal hook keeps it from sliding around during use. We found the tray easy to hose down after accidents, and it dried quickly before reinserting.
The divider panel lets you adjust the interior space, which is helpful if you are working with a growing puppy. Our main gripe is that this crate is not Prime eligible, so shipping may take longer than some competitors on this list. A few buyers reported bent wires on arrival, though Amazon typically replaces damaged units without hassle.
Assembly Time and Storage
Plan for about ten minutes on your first setup. The crate folds out from its flat shipping position, and you secure it with a few attached clips. Once assembled, it folds back down flat for storage under a bed or in a closet.
No tools are required at any point during assembly or takedown. The folding mechanism uses the same hinges for both processes, so it becomes faster each time you set it up or pack it away.
Cleaning and Tray Replacement
The plastic tray pulls out from the side without removing your dog or disassembling the crate. We recommend wiping it down daily and doing a deeper wash weekly with mild soap. The smooth plastic surface resists staining from waste and food residue.
If the tray ever cracks or warps, replacement pans are widely available online in the 36-inch size. The metal hook that holds the tray in place is a small but thoughtful detail that stops the tray from shifting when your dog moves around inside.
3. Sweetcrispy 36-Inch Dog Crate — Best Budget Pick
Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate, Medium Dog Cage, Foldable Puppy Pet Kennel
- Enhanced security with rounded corners
- Double doors with sliding bolt locks
- Collapsible for travel
- ABS tray resists stains and odors
- Breathable design
- Best suited for medium-sized dogs
- Assembly may require some effort
The Sweetcrispy 36-inch crate is the most affordable option on our list, and it genuinely surprised us with its build quality. Launched in 2026, this crate brings features we usually only see at higher price points, including rounded safety corners and two heavy-duty sliding bolt locks per door. Our team tested it with a 40-pound Border Collie, and the crate held firm throughout.
The thick metal mesh construction feels sturdier than we expected at this price. The double-door design gives you placement flexibility, and each door locks with two sliding bolts that our test dog could not budge. The rounded edges are a nice safety touch that prevents both your dog and your hands from getting scratched during setup or cleaning.
The ABS composite tray is a step up from the basic plastic pans found on some budget crates. It resists stains and odors better than standard plastic, and it held up well during our spill tests without any cracking. The tray is leak-proof and slides out for cleaning without much effort.
This crate collapses flat for storage or transport, which makes it practical for trips or seasonal use. Among the best dog crates under $120, the Sweetcrispy stands out as the one that gives you the most features per dollar spent. It is best suited for medium dogs up to about 50 pounds.
Security Features for Active Dogs
The dual sliding bolt locks on each door provide more security than single-latch designs. Our Border Collie tested pawing and nosing at the door repeatedly, and the locks held firm throughout. The thick metal mesh also prevents determined dogs from bending the bars outward.
The rounded corner clips add structural rigidity while eliminating sharp edges. If your dog tends to bite at the crate when stressed, the smooth corners reduce the risk of mouth injuries significantly.
Indoor vs Outdoor Use
The black powder-coated finish handles indoor humidity well, though it is not designed for permanent outdoor exposure to rain. We recommend using it in covered areas like garages or screened patios if you need semi-outdoor containment.
The breathable mesh design promotes air circulation, which helps in warmer indoor spaces. For any outdoor use, always provide shade and never leave your dog in direct sunlight inside any wire crate.
4. FDW Extra Large 48-Inch Dog Crate — Best for Big Dogs
- Sturdy rust-resistant construction
- Double door for flexible entry
- Leak-proof removable tray
- Good for large dogs
- Easy assembly and storage
- May be heavy to move when assembled
- Some report missing hardware
The FDW 48-inch crate ranks number two in Basic Dog Crates, and it is built for dogs that need serious room. Our team tested this with an 85-pound German Shepherd who had plenty of space to stand at full height and turn around without hitting the walls. The 48 x 29 x 31-inch dimensions make this one of the largest crates you can find in this budget range.
The rust-resistant metal wire construction held up well during our testing period with no signs of corrosion. The double-door design means you can place this crate against a wall and still access your dog from the side. Assembly is tool-free and takes about 15 minutes for a crate of this size.
The leak-proof plastic tray has a textured surface that keeps food and water dishes from sliding around during mealtime. This was a small detail that our test dog appreciated at every feeding. The tray detaches easily for cleaning, though you will want to pull it out carefully to avoid spilling.
At 32 pounds, this crate is substantial and not something you move around casually. Plan your placement before setting it up. A few customers mentioned missing hardware on delivery, so check all parts when yours arrives. For large breeds, this ranks among the best dog crates under $120 we tested.
Sizing for Extra Large Breeds
The 48-inch size works for dogs up to about 90 to 100 pounds. Great Danes, Mastiffs, and Rottweilers in the lower weight ranges can fit, but measure your dog standing up before ordering. Your dog should have at least four inches of clearance above their head when standing.
The included divider panel lets you start with a smaller space for younger dogs. This is particularly useful if you are raising a large breed puppy and want one crate that grows with them through adulthood.
Portability Despite the Size
The crate folds flat for transport, which helps if you need to move it between homes or take it on extended trips. The folding mechanism is straightforward, but you will want two people to handle the collapsed crate given its weight and size.
The built-in carry handle helps with short-distance moves across a room. Once collapsed, the crate slides under a tall bed or stands against a wall without taking up much floor space.
5. Yaheetech 42-Inch Double Door Dog Crate — Best for Crate Training
- Suitable for medium to large dogs 70-90 lbs
- Double-door for easy access
- Adjustable divider for growing puppies
- Pull-out tray for easy cleaning
- Collapsible for travel
- May require two people to assemble larger sizes
- Divider may not suit all temperaments
The Yaheetech 42-inch crate earned its spot with a 4.6-star rating and thoughtful design touches that make crate training easier. Our team appreciated the 1.4-inch bar spacing, which is narrow enough to keep curious puppies from getting their paws stuck while still allowing good visibility and airflow. The powder-coated metal finish looks clean and resists everyday wear.
The double-lock double-door design adds a level of security we did not expect at this price. Each door uses a dual-locking mechanism that requires deliberate action to open, which keeps escape artists contained. Our test dog, a 65-pound mixed breed, pushed against both doors without any success.
The pull-out leak-proof tray features locking buckles that keep it securely in place. This is smarter than the friction-fit trays on some competitors, which can slide out when a restless dog pushes against them. We removed the tray for cleaning with one hand, then locked it back in seconds.
The adjustable interior divider makes this one of the best dog crates under $120 for puppy owners specifically. You can reduce the space for a young pup, then expand it as they grow into their adult size. The crate is designed for dogs between 70 and 90 pounds, so it works well for medium-to-large breeds.
Bar Spacing and Safety
The 1.4-inch bar spacing strikes a good balance between security and ventilation. Paws and toys stay inside the crate while air flows freely on all sides. This spacing also prevents smaller dogs from squeezing through or getting their heads stuck between bars.
The rounded edges on each wire prevent cuts and scrapes. If your dog likes to mouth the crate bars when anxious, the smooth coated surfaces reduce the risk of dental damage compared to unfinished wire.
Crate Training with the Divider
Start your puppy with about one-third of the crate space using the divider. This limits room enough that your dog will not want to soil their sleeping area, which accelerates house training. Move the divider back a few inches each week as your puppy grows.
Some dogs may resist the divider if they are used to full crate access. Introduce it gradually over a few days rather than all at once, and reward calm behavior near the divider with treats and praise.
6. Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate — Best for Travel
- Collapsible and portable for travel
- Sets up in seconds
- Good ventilation with mesh windows
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Removable bottom tray
- Soft-sided not for strong chewers
- Zipper security may not suffice for all dogs
The Amazon Basics soft crate is the travel companion in our lineup. At just 6.5 pounds, this crate is light enough to carry one-handed, and it sets up in seconds with no tools required. Our team took this on a weekend road trip with a 25-pound Beagle, and it performed exactly as intended as a portable den for hotel stays and campground stops.
The tan polyester fabric looks clean and professional, blending into home decor better than typical wire crates. Two doors, one on top and one on the front, give you flexible loading options. The top door is especially handy for placing a small or anxious dog inside without a struggle.
Mesh windows on all four sides provide excellent ventilation for your dog. Our test dog stayed comfortable even in warm conditions, and the airflow prevented the stuffy feeling that enclosed plastic carriers can create. The fastening straps keep the doors rolled up and out of the way when you want the crate open.
This soft crate is not designed for strong chewers or determined escape artists. The zipper closures are secure for calm dogs but will not stop a dog that is determined to chew through fabric. For well-behaved travel companions under 50 pounds, though, this is a convenient and portable option among the best dog crates under $120.
Travel and Portability
The entire crate folds flat and fits into a car trunk or closet shelf. At 6.5 pounds, it is one of the lightest containment options available anywhere. The setup is literally pop-and-go, with the frame springing into shape when you unzip the carrying case.
For road trips, this crate doubles as a safe resting spot at your destination. It is not a substitute for a crash-tested carrier in a moving vehicle, so if car safety is your priority, check our guide to crash-tested dog crates instead.
Which Dogs Should Avoid Soft Crates
Strong chewers, scratchers, and dogs with separation anxiety are poor candidates for soft-sided crates. A determined dog can chew through the polyester fabric or push out the mesh panels within minutes. Stick with wire or plastic crates for these dogs.
Soft crates work best for calm, crate-trained dogs who view the crate as a den rather than a cage to escape. Puppies who are still learning crate manners should start with a wire crate before graduating to soft-sided options.
7. Hzuaneri 31.5-Inch Wooden Dog Crate Furniture — Best Furniture-Style Crate
Hzuaneri 31.5” Dog Crate Furniture,Dog Kennel Indoor for Small/Medium Dogs
- Multi-functional doubles as furniture
- Anti-chew and anti-escape design
- 3-door for easy access
- Decorative arch door
- Suitable for small and medium dogs
- May be heavy to move
- Limited to small and medium dogs
The Hzuaneri wooden crate is the number one best seller in Furniture-Style Dog Crates, and it brings something different to this list. Instead of hiding your dog crate in a spare room, this piece doubles as a TV stand, side table, or nightstand that blends right into your living space. Our team placed it in a living room and it genuinely looked like a piece of furniture.
Do not let the wood exterior fool you into thinking it is flimsy. The frame uses 0.4-inch heavy-duty iron pipe with double welding points, making this one of the most chew-resistant crates we reviewed. The thickened engineered wood panels add structural support while the iron bars keep determined dogs contained without fail.
The 3-door design gives you access from the front and both sides, which is more flexibility than most furniture crates offer. Two locks per door add security for dogs that like to test boundaries. The arch door design gives it a modern look that works well with contemporary home decor.
With internal dimensions of 29.3 x 19.8 x 22.4 inches, this crate suits small to medium breeds. It is one of the best dog crates under $120 if you want containment that does not look like containment. Just keep in mind that at 39 pounds, it is not something you will want to move frequently.
Blending with Home Decor
The white and brown finish works with most color schemes, and the flat top can hold a moderate amount of decor, electronics, or books. We placed a lamp and a framed photo on ours without any wobbling. The arch door adds an architectural detail that draws the eye away from the crate function.
The wooden panels provide more visual privacy than wire crates, which some dogs prefer. If your dog likes a darker, more enclosed sleeping space, the wood construction creates a natural den atmosphere.
Weight Capacity as Furniture
The thickened engineered wood top supports typical end-table loads like lamps, books, and small speakers. We would not recommend using it as a standing desk or placing heavy aquariums on top. The internal structure is designed for dog containment first, with furniture function as a bonus.
The anti-chew iron frame means this crate can handle dogs that destroy softer wooden furniture. If your dog has a history of chewing through crate bars, the thick iron pipes will stop them cold.
8. Petmate Sky Kennel — Best for Air Travel
- IATA and airline compliant
- Made in USA from recycled materials
- 360-degree ventilation
- Includes food bowl and accessories
- Pre-drilled zip tie holes
- May need metal bolts for airline compliance
- Plastic can crack under extreme impact
The Petmate Sky Kennel is the only airline-compliant crate on our list, and it is the one we recommend for owners who fly with their dogs. IATA compliant and USDA approved, this 28-inch kennel is designed for dogs between 15 and 30 pounds. Our team tested it with a 22-pound French Bulldog, and the interior dimensions of 24.25 x 18.25 x 19.5 inches gave her comfortable room.
The 360-degree ventilation sets this apart from wire crates, which only allow airflow from the front and sides. Air moves through all four walls plus the top, which matters during air travel when crates are loaded into cargo holds. Made in the USA from EcoTEC plastic with 90 percent pre-consumer recycled material, the construction feels solid without being excessively heavy.
Petmate includes everything you need for travel preparation right in the box. The package comes with two Live Animal stickers, ID stickers, a food and water cup, and an absorbent pad. The easy-squeeze latch door with interlocks is designed for quick access, and the folding top handle makes carrying easier.
For full airline compliance, some carriers require metal bolts instead of the plastic clips that come standard. The pre-drilled zip tie holes let you add extra security for nervous dogs. While this is among the best dog crates under $120 for travel specifically, note that the plastic shell can crack under extreme impact, so it is not the best choice for destructive chewers.
Airline Requirements and Compliance
Each airline has specific crate requirements, but the Sky Kennel meets IATA standards that most carriers follow. Check with your airline before booking, as some require additional hardware like metal bolts or zip ties on the door. The pre-drilled holes accommodate these add-ons easily.
The included Live Animal stickers and food cups meet standard airline documentation requirements. You will still need to verify size requirements with your specific carrier, as some airlines have slightly different dimension limits for in-cabin versus cargo travel.
Car Travel vs Air Travel Use
For car travel, the Sky Kennel is a solid choice because the enclosed plastic shell contains messes and protects your car interior. The 12.5-pound weight makes it manageable to load and unload from a vehicle by yourself. It secures well with a seatbelt threaded through the handle.
For air travel, verify that your specific airline accepts this model before your flight. The sturdy plastic construction handles cargo handling better than soft crates, and the ventilation design meets cargo hold airflow requirements. Reddit users in r/dogs frequently recommend the Petmate Sky Kennel specifically for airline flights.
How to Choose the Right Dog Crate Under $120?
A few key factors separate a crate that lasts years from one you replace in months. Here is what our team looks for when shopping in this budget range, based on testing and owner feedback.
Size Selection Guide
Measure your dog from nose to tail base and from the floor to the top of their head while standing. Add four inches to each measurement to find the minimum crate dimensions. Your dog should be able to stand at full height, turn around comfortably, and lie down stretched out on their side.
When in doubt, size up rather than down. A crate that is too small causes discomfort and stress, while a slightly larger crate just means more room. For detailed sizing by specific dimensions, our 42-inch dog crate guide breaks down which breeds fit which sizes.
Wire vs Plastic vs Soft-Sided
Wire crates offer the best ventilation and visibility of the three types. They fold flat for storage and typically include divider panels for crate training. The trade-off is that they are open and exposed, which some dogs find less den-like and secure.
Plastic crates like the Petmate Sky Kennel provide more enclosed comfort and are required for air travel. They contain messes better but do not fold for storage. Soft-sided crates are the lightest and most portable but only work for calm, non-destructive dogs that will not chew through fabric.
Construction Quality at This Price Point
At the under $120 range, expect solid metal wire construction with 12 to 16 gauge thickness. Look for powder-coated or e-coat finishes that resist rust, especially if you live in a humid climate. The tray should be thick enough to resist cracking, and door latches should use metal rather than plastic components.
Forum users on r/puppy101 note that budget crates often need replacement after two to three years of heavy use. Spending closer to the top of your budget on a well-reviewed brand like MidWest typically extends that lifespan by several years compared to the cheapest options.
Portability and Storage
If you plan to travel or store the crate between uses, folding wire crates are your best bet. They collapse flat in minutes and slide under furniture. Soft-sided crates pack even smaller but sacrifice durability and security in exchange.
For permanent placement, heavier options like the FDW 48-inch or the Hzuaneri furniture crate stay put and feel more stable. Consider where the crate will live before prioritizing portability features that you may never use.
Crate Training Compatibility
Look for crates with included divider panels if you are training a puppy from scratch. The divider lets you start with a small space and expand it as your dog grows, which prevents the common problem of a puppy soiling in one corner of an oversized crate. Once you have the right crate, a well-fitted dog crate cover can help create that cozy den feeling that makes crate training stick.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Crates Under $120
What is the best dog crate for the money?
The MidWest iCrate is the best dog crate for the money, combining a 4.7-star rating from over 111,000 reviews with durable metal wire construction, a divider panel for crate training, and a leak-proof tray. It ranks number one in Basic Dog Crates and has been a trusted budget choice since 2007.
What size dog crate do I need?
Measure your dog from nose to tail base and from floor to the top of their head while standing, then add four inches to each measurement. Your dog should be able to stand at full height, turn around, and lie down stretched out. A 36-inch crate suits medium dogs weighing 30 to 50 pounds, a 42-inch crate fits large dogs weighing 71 to 90 pounds, and a 48-inch crate works for breeds up to 100 pounds.
Are wire crates better than plastic?
Wire crates offer better ventilation, fold flat for storage, and typically include divider panels for training. Plastic crates provide more enclosed comfort, contain messes better, and are required for airline travel. Choose wire crates for home training and everyday use, and plastic crates for travel or for dogs who prefer an enclosed den space.
How do I choose a dog crate?
Consider your dog’s adult size, temperament, and primary use. Measure your dog standing up and add four inches to find the right size. Choose wire crates for home training with ventilation, plastic crates for travel, and soft-sided crates for calm dogs on the go. Look for divider panels, leak-proof trays, and secure metal latches within your budget.
What is the best dog crate brand?
MidWest Homes for Pets is the most trusted budget crate brand, consistently recommended on Reddit communities like r/dogs and across review sites. Their iCrate series has dominated best-seller lists for years. Amazon Basics and Yaheetech also offer solid value in this price range, while Petmate leads specifically for airline-compliant travel crates.
Final Thoughts on the Best Dog Crates Under $120
After testing all eight crates, the MidWest iCrate remains our top recommendation for most dog owners. Its 111,000-plus reviews and number one best-seller ranking reflect years of proven performance at a price that fits this budget comfortably. For sheer value, the Amazon Basics wire crate is hard to beat, and the Sweetcrispy is the standout budget option that punches well above its price.
If you need a travel crate, the Petmate Sky Kennel is your best bet for air travel compliance. For dogs over 90 pounds, check our guide to crates for larger breeds that go beyond this budget range. Whatever you choose, the best dog crates under $120 in 2026 prove that you do not need to overspend to give your dog a safe, comfortable space of their own.