I still remember the day I brought my beagle, Cooper, home and realized I did not have a crate yet. The pet store wanted a premium price for a basic wire model, and I could not justify that expense on top of adoption fees, food, and vaccines. So I started hunting for the best dog crates under $60, and what I learned after testing more than a dozen budget options surprised me.
Three months later, I had ordered, assembled, and lived with ten of the most popular crates on Amazon, Chewy, and Walmart, all priced below the $60 mark. Some failed within days. A few are still in daily rotation at my house and at my sister’s grooming shop. This guide shares exactly which cheap dog crates held up, which ones have flimsy latches, and how to match the right size and style to your dog without overspending.
If you are crate training a puppy, need a safe spot for an anxious rescue, or just want a reliable travel kennel, this list covers the best affordable dog crate picks for 2026. Every product here costs less than $60, ships with a divider or tray, and has been rated by at least a thousand real owners. Let’s get your dog settled.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for the Best Dog Crates Under $60 in 2026
Before the full reviews, here are the three crates I would buy again without hesitation. These picks are based on durability, ease of setup, real owner ratings, and how well each held up during my testing window.
MidWest iCrate 30-Inch Folding Crate
- Wire crate with divider panel
- Leak-proof tray
- Slide-bolt latch
- 111k+ reviews
Amazon Basics 22-Inch Foldable Crate
- Under 10 lbs
- Divider included
- Prime shipping
- 17k+ reviews
BestPet 24-Inch Double Door Crate
- Double door design
- Leak-proof ABS tray
- Rust-resistant wire
- No-tools assembly
Best Dog Crates Under $60 in 2026: Quick Comparison
Below is a side-by-side comparison of every crate in this guide. Sizes, weights, door counts, and key features are pulled directly from current Amazon listings. Use this table to scan the field fast before diving into the detailed reviews.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| MidWest iCrate 30-Inch Folding Crate |
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| Amazon Basics 22-Inch Foldable Crate |
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| BestPet 24-Inch Double Door Crate |
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 MidWest LifeStages 24-Inch Crate |
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 FDW 24-Inch Double Door Folding Crate |
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 Precision Pet Provalue Two-Door Crate |
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 Internet’s Best Double Door Steel Crate |
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 DONORO Double Door Crate Kit |
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 PayLessHere 24-Inch Folding Crate |
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 CAPHAUS 24-Inch Foldable Crate |
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1. MidWest iCrate 30-Inch Folding Crate — Editor’s Choice
- 111k+ reviews with 4.7 stars
- Heavy-duty wire with e-coat finish
- Secure slide-bolt latch with Paw Block
- Divider panel perfect for crate training
- Leak-proof plastic tray
- Heavier than some at 17 lbs
- Tray can shift during transport
The MidWest iCrate is the gold standard for budget dog crates, and after three months of daily use with Cooper, I understand why it has 111k+ reviews. The wire feels substantial, the corners are rounded to prevent snags, and the slide-bolt latch includes a small plastic Paw Block that stops clever dogs from nudging the door open. Setup took me under five minutes with no tools at all.
This 30-inch model is rated for dogs between 21 and 40 pounds, which covers most French Bulldogs, Welsh Terriers, and Dachshunds. Cooper fit comfortably with room to turn around and lie down. The included divider panel is what makes this crate special for puppy owners. I can move the panel as a puppy grows, so I do not have to buy a new crate every few months.
The leak-proof tray sits in the bottom and slides out cleanly for spot cleaning. I wiped it down twice a week with mild soap and water, and it still looks new after three months of use. The rubber feet kept the crate from sliding across our hardwood floors when Cooper shifted around inside.
I tested this crate alongside several cheaper models, and the build quality gap is obvious. The wire gauge is heavier, the welds are cleaner, and the e-coat finish has not shown a single rust spot even after a damp basement storage period. For anyone searching for the best dog crates under $60 that still feel premium, this is the one I keep recommending.
Setup and everyday use
Out of the box, the crate folds flat and weighs 17 pounds. I carry it one-handed using the built-in handle when moving it between rooms. The assembly is genuinely tool-free. You unfold the sides, drop in the tray, slide in the divider, and snap the top.
For daily life, the single front door swings open smoothly and latches with a satisfying click. Cooper learned to push the door with his nose when he wanted out, and the Paw Block prevented any accidental escapes during the first week of crate training. Cleaning is quick. The tray pulls forward, the divider lifts out, and a damp cloth handles the rest.
Best for crate training puppies
The divider panel is the secret weapon here. Puppies should have just enough room to stand, turn around, and lie down, not enough extra space to use one corner as a bathroom. I set the divider tight at eight weeks and expanded it every three weeks as Cooper grew. By six months, I removed the divider entirely.
Owners on the r/puppy101 subreddit repeatedly recommend the iCrate as the top budget crate for new puppy owners. One user with a Golden Retriever noted that they used the same crate for the first 14 months of their dog’s life simply by adjusting the divider. That kind of longevity at the under $60 price point is rare in this category.
2. Amazon Basics 22-Inch Foldable Wire Crate — Best Value
- Excellent value well below the $60 ceiling
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Removable tray for cleaning
- Top handle for transport
- 17k+ reviews at 4.7 stars
- Wire gauge thinner than premium brands
- Latch can be stiff at first
The Amazon Basics 22-inch crate is what I bought for my sister’s Yorkie, Biscuit, and it has performed like a crate costing twice as much. With Prime shipping included, this is the cheapest dog crate on this list that I would still trust for daily use. It weighs just 9.88 pounds, which means even a child can carry it from room to room.
This size works for toy and small breeds under about 12 pounds. Biscuit stands 9 inches tall and 14 inches long, and she had plenty of room to turn around inside. The single front door has a simple slide-bolt latch, and the top handle makes it genuinely portable. I have folded it down and back up at least 30 times without any loose joints.
The removable plastic tray in the bottom slides out for cleaning. It locks in place with a small metal hook so it does not slide around when the dog moves. I appreciated that detail because Biscuit tends to pace when nervous, and shifting trays can be unsettling for anxious dogs.
Where this crate falls short is the wire gauge. It is thinner than the MidWest iCrate, and an aggressive chewer or escape artist might bend it. For calm toy breeds and puppies who are not yet determined Houdinis, it is a fantastic budget dog crate pick that holds up to daily life.
Who this crate fits
Toy Poodles, Yorkshire Terriers, Maltese, and small Chihuahua mixes all fit comfortably in the 22-inch model. The internal dimensions are roughly 21 by 14 by 14 inches, so measure your dog from nose to tail base and from floor to top of head before ordering. Your dog should be able to stand without crouching.
If your dog is between sizes, size up. A crate that feels slightly too large at first is easier to manage with a divider than a crate that is too small and causes stress. The Amazon Basics line also offers 24, 30, 36, and 42-inch versions at similar value tiers if you need to upgrade later.
Trade-offs to consider
The thinner wire means this is not the crate I would pick for a known chewer or for a dog in the middle of separation anxiety training. Heavy paw strikes can dent the mesh, and a determined dog can bend the door frame. For calm dogs who see the crate as a safe den, it is more than enough.
The latch also feels stiffer than the MidWest iCrate out of the box. After a week of use, the mechanism loosened up and now operates smoothly. If you have arthritis or limited hand strength, test the latch in person if possible before committing.
3. BestPet 24-Inch Double Door Crate — Budget Pick
BestPet | Dog Crate | 24″ | Black | Foldable Metal Kennel with Double Doors
- Double doors for flexible access
- Leak-proof ABS tray
- Rust-resistant for outdoor use
- No-tools assembly
- 15k+ reviews at 4.5 stars
- Not Prime eligible
- Thinner wire than premium brands
- Latches can feel stiff
The BestPet 24-inch crate is the best cheap dog crate with double doors I tested in this price range. It undercuts most competitors and still ships with two full-sized doors, a leak-proof tray, and the no-tools assembly I want from a travel kennel. I used this crate for a friend’s Corgi during a weekend road trip.
The double door design is more useful than I expected. The front door lets the dog walk in and out, while the side door lets me slide the tray out for cleaning without moving the entire crate. If you place the crate against a wall or in a corner, the side door is a real convenience.
The ABS composite tray resists staining and warping better than standard plastic trays. After a muddy-paw incident, I hosed it off in the yard and it came clean in seconds. The rust-resistant finish held up through a humid garage weekend without any oxidation spots.
The main downside is shipping. BestPet does not offer Prime, so delivery took four days instead of two. For someone who needs a crate today, that matters. For someone planning ahead, the savings make it worth the wait.
Where this crate shines
The dual slide-bolt latches feel more secure than I expected for the price. Each door has its own latch, and both need to be opened to release the dog. For foster dogs or new rescues who might try to bolt, that extra step is meaningful. The corners are rounded to prevent snags, and the wire spacing is tight enough that small paws cannot slip through.
I also liked the no-tools assembly. The whole crate unfolded and locked into shape in under two minutes. When we hit the road, I folded it down flat, slid it in the trunk next to the luggage, and reassembled it at the cabin in five minutes. That portability makes it one of the best portable dog crates under $60 for travel.
Limits to know before buying
The wire gauge is on the thinner side, so I would not recommend this crate for large breeds, strong chewers, or known escape artists. The 24-inch size is rated for small breeds up to about 20 pounds, which fits most Dachshunds, Pugs, and small Beagles, but excludes any medium or large dog.
Some users report tray cracking after a year of heavy use. I did not see this in my two-month test window, but it is worth inspecting the tray periodically. If you spot a crack, replace the tray rather than risk leakage onto your floors.
4. MidWest LifeStages 24-Inch Heavy-Duty Crate — Best for Anxious Small Dogs
- Heavy-gauge wire for stronger dogs
- Reinforced slide-bolt latch with Paw Block
- Family-owned brand with 100+ years
- Divider panel for growing puppies
- 11k+ reviews at 4.7 stars
- Only 1 left in stock
- Single door only
- Heavier at 14.3 lbs
The MidWest LifeStages 24-inch crate is the heavy-duty sibling to the iCrate, and it is the budget dog crate I trust most for anxious small dogs. The wire gauge is noticeably thicker than standard crates, which means it can take a paw strike, a body slam, or a determined push without bending. I tested it with a friend’s Jack Russell Terrier who chews through everything.
This crate is rated for dogs between 12 and 20 pounds, covering Pugs, Fox Terriers, and smaller Chihuahuas. The reinforced slide-bolt latch with the Paw Block security feature is the same one MidWest uses on its premium crates. Clever dogs who have figured out standard latches struggle with this design.
The leak-proof tray fits snugly in the bottom, and the rubber feet keep the crate from sliding when the dog moves. The divider panel is included, which makes it a strong pick for crate training a small-breed puppy. I appreciated that the crate folds flat for storage but still feels solid when assembled.
The biggest caveat is stock. As of writing, Amazon shows only one unit left in inventory. If you want this crate, do not wait. MidWest restocks regularly, but the smaller sizes do go in and out of availability.
What heavy-gauge wire actually does
Wire gauge numbers sound counterintuitive. Lower numbers mean thicker wire, and thicker wire resists bending. The LifeStages crate uses a heavier gauge than most crates in this price range, which translates to real-world durability. Anxious dogs who push against the door during thunderstorms or fireworks will not bend the mesh.
That extra strength comes with extra weight. At 14.3 pounds, this crate is heavier than most 24-inch models. If you need a crate you can grab and go frequently, that weight matters. For stationary home use, the durability is worth every extra pound.
Best use cases
This crate is ideal for crate training a small-breed puppy who will grow into the divider space. It is also a strong choice for adult small dogs who show anxiety behaviors like crate destruction or escape attempts. The thick wire and Paw Block latch give you a real fighting chance against a determined small dog.
For calm seniors who just want a quiet den, this crate is overkill. Save the money and go with the lighter Amazon Basics or FDW option.
5. FDW 24-Inch Double Door Folding Crate — Cheapest Double-Door Option
- Lowest price tier in this guide
- Double door for flexible access
- Best seller #2 in Basic Dog Crates
- Epoxy coating resists rust
- Collapses to under 3 inches thick
- Newer brand with less track record
- Some reports of latch wear
- Divider can be flimsy
The FDW 24-inch crate is the cheapest double-door option on this entire list, and it ranks #2 in Amazon’s Basic Dog Crates category. That combination of price and sales rank caught my attention, so I ordered one to test with my sister’s second dog, a Mini Pinscher named Piper.
The crate has two doors, a removable carrying handle, and collapses to under three inches thick for storage. I stored it behind the couch for two weeks without anyone noticing it was there. The epoxy coating resists rust, which I confirmed by leaving the crate in a damp garage for a weekend.
Piper weighs 11 pounds and had plenty of room inside. The dual latches on each door feel solid for the price, though I would not trust them against a determined chewer. For a calm small dog, they are more than enough.
The main thing to know is that FDW is a newer brand. The crate was first available in May 2023, which means there is less long-term track record than the MidWest options. For the value, the proposition is undeniable.
Setup and durability
Setup is genuinely tool-free. The crate unfolded and locked into shape in about 90 seconds. The divider panel slipped into place without tools, and the tray slid in cleanly. When I was done testing, I collapsed it back to flat in under a minute.
Durability is the wildcard. With 6,400+ reviews averaging 4.5 stars, the consensus is that this crate holds up well for typical small dogs. The wire is on the thinner side, so I would not recommend it for aggressive chewers or large breeds. For calm small dogs and puppies, it is a strong cheap dog crate pick.
Where to save vs. spend
The value position on the FDW crate is hard to beat. You give up the brand reputation of MidWest and the slightly thicker wire gauge of the LifeStages. What you gain is a perfectly functional double-door crate with the same general feature set as options costing more within the under-$60 bracket.
If budget is the top priority and your dog is calm, this is the best budget crate at the lowest end of this guide. Spend more only if you have an anxious dog, a known chewer, or a strong puller who needs the heaviest gauge wire available.
6. Precision Pet Provalue 24-Inch Two-Door Crate — Most Secure Locking System
- 5-point locking system for escape artists
- Two doors for flexible placement
- Rust-resistant finish
- Removable shatter-resistant pan
- Includes divider for puppy training
- Standard duty not for large powerful breeds
- Single latch point per door
The Precision Pet Provalue crate has the most secure locking system on any crate in this price range. The 5-point locking mechanism uses a single latch arm that engages five different contact points on the door frame simultaneously. That sounds like marketing until you watch a smart dog fail to open it.
I tested this crate with a 22-pound Beagle mix named Rusty who had previously escaped three different crate brands. The Provalue held him for the full test window with zero breakouts. The two-door design also lets you place the crate in a corner or against furniture without trapping the dog inside.
The 24-inch size is rated for pets between 15 and 30 pounds, which covers small to lower-medium breeds. The rust-resistant finish holds up to occasional outdoor use, and the removable shatter-resistant pan slides out for easy cleanup. Non-skid rubber feet protect floors and keep the crate from drifting.
Precision Pet has been making crates since 2005, so the brand has two decades of track record. That longevity matters at the budget price point, where newer brands come and go.
The 5-point locking system
Most budget crates use a single slide-bolt latch that engages at one point on the door frame. A determined dog can push the door against the bolt and gradually bend the frame until the bolt slips free. The 5-point system locks the door at the top, bottom, and three side points at once.
The trade-off is convenience. Opening and closing the crate takes a few extra seconds because the latch has to disengage all five points. For owners who value security over speed, that trade is worth it. For owners who open and close the crate many times a day, the simpler latches on other crates may be easier to live with.
Best fit for small breeds
This crate is purpose-built for small to medium breeds under 30 pounds. If you have a Pug, a French Bulldog, or a small Border Collie mix, the Provalue is an excellent fit. If your dog is larger or stronger, look at heavy-gauge options from MidWest or upgrade to a heavy-duty crate above the $60 budget.
The divider panel is included, which makes it a strong pick for crate training puppies. I would adjust the divider weekly during the early growth phase and remove it entirely once the dog reaches adult size.
7. Internet’s Best 24-Inch Double Door Steel Crate — Best Lightweight Travel Crate
- Double door for convenient access
- Detachable carrying handle
- Non-stick coated tray
- Collapses flat for storage
- 4.6 stars across 2
- 700+ reviews
- Not for large or powerful breeds
- Carry handle can break if pet moves suddenly
The Internet’s Best 24-inch crate is the travel crate I keep in my car for vet trips and weekend visits to my parents’ house. The double door design, detachable carry handle, and lightweight build make it the easiest crate to grab and go in this price range.
The non-stick coated tray is a thoughtful detail. It wipes clean in seconds and does not absorb odors the way standard plastic trays can. After transporting Cooper to the vet during a bout of car sickness, I had the tray clean in under a minute.
The two-side bolt latches keep the doors secure during car rides. I drove 90 minutes with Cooper in this crate and never worried about a door popping open. The crate sits flat on the back seat without sliding, which is more than I can say for some competitors.
Where this crate falls short is strength. It is rated for small dogs between 11 and 25 pounds, and the wire gauge is on the lighter side. Strong pullers or anxious dogs may damage the frame. For calm travelers, it is an excellent portable dog crate within the under-$60 category.
Travel and storage
The crate folds flat in under a minute, and the detachable handle clips onto the side for transport. I slide it behind the back seat when not in use, and it takes up about the same space as a folded stroller. Setting it back up at the destination takes another minute.
For air travel, this crate is not airline approved. Most airlines require hard-sided plastic kennels for cargo travel. Wire crates like this one work for car travel, hotel stays, and visits to family, but you will need a different crate for flying.
What this crate is not for
This is not the crate for a known chewer, an aggressive escape artist, or a large breed. The wire is lighter gauge, the handle is rated for the crate weight but not for sudden impacts, and the overall construction prioritizes portability over heavy-duty strength.
For a calm small dog who travels occasionally, this crate is genuinely one of the best within the under-$60 budget. For a high-anxiety dog or a strong chewer, save your money for a heavy-gauge option.
8. DONORO 24-Inch Double Door Crate Kit — Best Crate Kit with Cover
- Comes with waterproof crate cover
- Detachable carrying handle
- Leak-proof tray included
- Two heavy-duty slide-bolt latches per door
- 1-year manufacturer warranty
- Cover requires hand washing only
- Heavier at 15 lbs
The DONORO 24-inch crate is the only kit on this list that ships with a waterproof cover, a carrying handle, and a leak-proof tray together. It is also one of the more expensive options here, but the bundled accessories justify the cost for owners who want everything in one box.
The 600D Oxford fabric cover is the standout accessory. It slips over the crate to create a den-like environment, which calms anxious dogs. I tested the cover with a friend’s rescue who panicked in open wire crates, and she settled within minutes once the cover was on. The cover is hand-wash only, but it cleans up easily in the sink.
The double doors each have two heavy-duty slide-bolt latches, which is more locking hardware than most crates at this price. For dogs who have figured out single-latch systems, the extra bolts are a real upgrade. The carry handle detaches when not in use.
The 1-year manufacturer warranty is rare in this price range and signals confidence in the build. Most budget crates offer 30 or 90 days.
What’s in the kit
The kit includes the wire crate, the waterproof cover, the leak-proof plastic tray, the detachable carry handle, and the dual-latch hardware. Everything arrives in one box, which is convenient compared to brands that sell the cover as a separate accessory at a markup.
The cover has zippers on the front and side so you can roll up the panels depending on which door you want to access. That is a thoughtful touch that makes daily use easier than fully removing the cover each time.
Who benefits most from the cover
Dogs with separation anxiety, rescue dogs adjusting to a new home, and noise-sensitive dogs all benefit from a covered crate. The cover blocks visual stimuli that can trigger barking or pacing, and it creates a den-like environment that mimics a small, secure space.
If your dog is calm and confident in an open crate, you do not need the cover and can save money with a cheaper option. If your dog shows any sign of crate anxiety, the DONORO kit is the best budget dog crate with cover that I tested.
9. PayLessHere 24-Inch Folding Travel Crate — Best for Two-Pet Households
PayLessHere | 24 Inch Dog Crate for Small Dogs | Black
- Split divider for two small pets
- Leak-proof tray with integrated lip
- Collapses to under 3 inches thick
- No-tools assembly
- Heavy-duty dual latches
- Not Prime eligible
- Newer brand with limited track record
The PayLessHere 24-inch crate includes a portable split divider that lets you house two small dogs in one crate without them sharing space. I tested this with two of my sister’s foster Chihuahuas, each weighing about 6 pounds, and the divider kept them comfortable on either side.
The split divider is the unique feature here. Most budget crates either include a single full-width divider or no divider at all. The PayLessHere divider creates two separate but connected spaces, which is useful for bonded pairs who need their own den corners.
The leak-proof tray has an integrated lip that prevents spills from seeping onto your floors. After one of the fosters had an accident, the tray contained the mess completely. I wiped it clean with paper towels and the floor underneath stayed dry.
The dual latches on each door feel solid, and the epoxy-coated wire resists rust. The crate folds flat to under three inches thick, which makes it easy to store when not in use.
The split divider advantage
For two-pet households, the split divider solves a real problem. Crate training two dogs separately requires two crates, two trays, and double the floor space. The split divider lets you use one crate for short periods, which is handy for car rides, vet visits, or emergency containment.
The divider does not make the crate suitable for long-term housing of two dogs. They each need their own space for daily crate use. For travel and short-term containment, though, it is a clever feature at a budget price.
Setting up and folding down
Setup is genuinely tool-free. The crate unfolded and locked into shape in about 90 seconds. The split divider clipped into place without any hardware. When I was done testing, I collapsed the crate back to flat in under a minute.
The removable carrying handle makes transport easier. I carried the folded crate with one hand while holding the tray in the other. At 8 pounds total, the crate is light enough for most adults to manage comfortably.
10. CAPHAUS 24-Inch Foldable Wire Crate — Lowest-Price Crate That Actually Works
- Lowest price tier on this list
- Upgraded designed locks
- Floor protective feet included
- Divider panel for housebreaking
- Sets up in seconds
- Single door only
- Carrying handle may scratch wire if changed often
The CAPHAUS 24-inch crate sits at the lowest price tier in this entire guide. That price point made me skeptical, so I tested it for a full month before including it. It held up. The wire is thin but functional, the upgraded locks actually feel sturdier than the standard slide-bolts on competing cheap crates, and the floor feet protect hardwood from scratches.
This crate is rated for dogs under 20 inches long and 15.2 inches tall, which covers toy and small breeds. I tested it with a friend’s Pomeranian, and she fit comfortably with room to spare.
The leak-proof pan has a small stop that prevents it from sliding out when the crate is moved. The divider panel is included, which is a pleasant surprise at this price point. The folding design collapses to about 3.5 inches thick for storage.
For owners on a very tight budget who need a functional crate today, the CAPHAUS is the cheapest dog crate on Amazon that I would actually recommend. It is not the strongest or the prettiest, but it does the job.
Where the price shows
The wire is noticeably thinner than the MidWest options. A determined chewer or an anxious dog would likely damage this crate within weeks. The carrying handle works but feels flimsy compared to the molded handles on more expensive models.
For calm toy breeds, the wire is sufficient. For anything beyond that, you are gambling with durability. The CAPHAUS is a starter crate, not a forever crate.
Best uses for this crate
This crate is ideal as a temporary or backup crate. Foster networks, pet-sitters, and owners who need a short-term containment solution will get good value here. It is also a great pick for crate training very young puppies who will outgrow a small crate in a few months anyway.
If you have a long-term crate need or a dog who will use the crate daily for years, spend more on the MidWest iCrate or the Precision Pet Provalue. For everyone else, the CAPHAUS proves that a low-cost crate can actually work.
How to Pick the Best Dog Crate Under $60?
Once you have a shortlist of crates, the real decision comes down to three factors. I learned this from years of fostering dogs and talking to trainers at our local shelter. The cheapest crate that fits your dog’s size and temperament will outlast an expensive crate that does not.
How to size your dog for a crate
Measure your dog from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, and from the floor to the top of the head while sitting. Add two to four inches to each measurement, and you have the minimum internal dimensions your dog needs. The crate should be tall enough for your dog to sit without crouching, and long enough to lie down flat.
If your dog is between sizes or still growing, choose the next size up and use the included divider panel to shrink the interior space. Crates that are too large can undo housebreaking because dogs tend to soil one end and sleep in the other. Crates that are too small cause stress and can lead to crate aversion.
For most adult dogs, here is a quick size guide based on weight: dogs under 10 pounds need an 18 to 22-inch crate. Dogs between 10 and 25 pounds need a 24 to 30-inch crate. Dogs between 25 and 50 pounds need a 36 to 42-inch crate. Anything above 50 pounds typically falls outside the under-$60 budget.
Wire vs plastic crate under $60
Wire crates dominate the under-$60 segment because they cost less to manufacture. They fold flat, they ventilate well, and they let your dog see the room, which can calm some dogs and stress others. Almost every crate in this guide is a wire crate for that reason.
Plastic kennels at this price point tend to be smaller and harder to find. They offer more den-like privacy, which helps anxious dogs, but they are heavier, harder to clean, and trap heat in warm weather. For car travel and air travel, plastic kennels are sometimes required, but for everyday home use, wire crates win on value.
Soft-sided fabric crates exist under the $60 mark but are not on this list because they do not hold up to determined dogs and are not safe for crate training. Save those for calm senior dogs and short supervised outings.
What to skip at this price point
At the under-$60 budget, skip heavy-duty crates marketed to escape artists. The Impact High Anxiety crate and the Gunner G1 Kennel both cost well beyond this guide’s scope. If you have a serious escape artist, you will need to increase your budget.
Skip crates without a divider if you are crate training a puppy. The divider is essential for adjusting space as the puppy grows. Every crate on this list except a few includes a divider panel, which is why I prioritized those models.
Skip used crates from unknown sources. Dogs can carry disease, and used wire crates may have bent frames or worn latches that compromise safety. Buy new from a reputable seller with a return policy.
Crate training basics for new dog owners
Crate training works because dogs instinctively avoid soiling their sleeping area. Start by feeding your dog meals inside the crate with the door open. Once your dog enters voluntarily, close the door for short periods while you are in the room. Gradually increase the time the door stays closed.
Never use the crate as punishment. The crate should be a positive space associated with food, treats, and rest. If your dog panics in the crate, slow down the training and consult a professional trainer.
For the first night home, place the crate in your bedroom so your new dog can hear your breathing. This mimics the comfort of sleeping near littermates and reduces whining. Within a week or two, you can gradually move the crate to its permanent location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has the cheapest dog crates?
Walmart and Amazon both offer crates at the lowest price tier in this guide, including the CAPHAUS 24-inch and the FDW 24-inch. Budget retailers like Tractor Supply and Coastal Farm also carry Main St. Pet and KennelMaster crates at modest price points. For the absolute cheapest crates, watch for MidWest iCrate sales on Amazon, which frequently drop the price to half off.
What are the best rated dog crates?
The best rated dog crates under $60 are the MidWest iCrate series with 4.7 stars across 111k+ reviews, the MidWest LifeStages at 4.7 stars across 11k+ reviews, and the DONORO Double Door kit at 4.7 stars across 1,100+ reviews. The Amazon Basics 22-inch also scores 4.7 stars across 17k+ reviews. These four consistently rank at the top of owner satisfaction surveys and forum recommendations on r/dogs.
Where should a new dog sleep the first night?
Place the crate in your bedroom for the first few nights so your new dog can hear your breathing and feel secure. This mimics the comfort of sleeping near littermates and reduces whining. Once your dog settles into a routine, gradually move the crate to its permanent location over a week or two. Avoid placing the crate in isolated areas like basements or garages during the adjustment period.
What is the most durable dog crate?
Among crates under $60, the MidWest LifeStages and MidWest iCrate are the most durable thanks to heavier gauge wire and reinforced slide-bolt latches with Paw Block security. The Precision Pet Provalue is also exceptionally durable due to its 5-point locking system. For truly escape-proof durability above this budget, the Impact High Anxiety crate and Gunner G1 Kennel are industry standards, but they cost well beyond this guide’s scope.
What size dog crate do I need?
Measure your dog from nose to tail base and from floor to top of head while sitting. Add 2 to 4 inches to each measurement for the minimum internal crate dimensions. Dogs under 10 pounds need an 18 to 22-inch crate, dogs between 10 and 25 pounds need a 24 to 30-inch crate, and dogs between 25 and 50 pounds need a 36 to 42-inch crate. For puppies, choose the next size up and use the divider panel to adjust the space as they grow.
Final Verdict on the Best Dog Crates Under $60
After three months of testing, the MidWest iCrate 30-Inch is still my top pick for the best dog crates under $60 in 2026. It is sturdy, easy to assemble, ships with a divider panel, and has the longest track record of any crate in this price range. For under the $60 ceiling, you would be hard pressed to find a more reliable wire crate.
If budget is the priority, the Amazon Basics 22-inch delivers exceptional value at the lowest tier, and the FDW 24-inch undercuts the field at the cheapest double-door position. For anxious dogs, the MidWest LifeStages and DONORO kit both offer extra security at slightly higher prices. For escape artists, the Precision Pet Provalue’s 5-point lock is worth the upgrade.
Whatever crate you choose, measure your dog carefully, use the divider panel during crate training, and give your new companion a few weeks to adjust. The best dog crates under $60 will serve your dog for years, and the right one is the one that matches your dog’s size, temperament, and your daily routine. Pick the crate that fits your life, and your dog will thank you for the safe space.