The Best Dog Cages
The word "cage" makes many people uncomfortable, but in reality, they're one of the best tools we have for keeping our pets safe when we can't supervise them. They're especially helpful during the puppy stage and for dogs who tend to get into things when nobody's looking. A high-quality crate gives dogs a den-like home to retreat to when they're overwhelmed or anxious, and playpens are awesome for letting puppies run around and play without getting themselves into trouble. Those are just two of the many different types of cages available. Picking the right one is important, and we want to make sure every pup has exactly what they need. That's why we did the research and created this list of the best dog cages available today.
Meow&Woof Pet Playpen
Perfect for puppies
Whether you have a new puppy or an old dog that needs some boundaries when you can’t watch them, this sturdy playpen-style dog cage from Meow&Woof has you covered. The sturdy wooden frame and connecting ports come together to create a strong foundation, while the fabric cover keeps your dog safely inside. In addition, there’s plenty of space inside for a potty pad and bed, making it perfect when you’ll be away for a few hours.
Pros:
- There are two sizes available to make it easier to find the right one to fit your space
- An included carrying case makes traveling with your pet a breeze
- Mesh sides maintain visibility so that your dogs don’t feel trapped inside
Cons:
- Not a good fit for large-breed dogs
- Assembly takes a while
Pupzo Heavy-Duty Dog Cage
Convenient construction
Some dogs need more than the usual plastic or fabric-based cages. Between social anxiety, aggression, and pure stubbornness, some dogs just can’t be held in by the standard options. That’s where this heavy-duty dog cage from Pupzo comes in handy. It’s made of solid carbon steel and has a latch lock to ensure your pup can’t get out until you open it up. The base has locking casters, as well, so you can quickly move it around as needed and then lock them up to keep it right where you want it.
Pros:
- It’s easy to clean and sanitize
- There are several size options available
- Each of the two built-in doors has a lock for extra security
Cons:
- It will rust if you don’t dry it right away when it gets wet
- This is much more expensive than most crates or cages
Aleko Heavy-Duty Pet Playpen
Versatile option
If versatility is your jam, Aleko’s pet playpen may be just what you’ve been looking for. It’s made of large panels that can be configured in any way you’d like. That means you can create an octagonal area in the middle of a room or attach it to a wall and make one big fenced space. It’s a fantastic choice for dogs of any size, and it gives you an excellent way to keep your puppy contained when you can’t keep your eyes on them. Use it inside or out, and move it around as needed. It’s one of the most versatile cages out there.
Pros:
- The panels are separate, so you can use as many or as few as you’d like
- It’s very strong, so as long as you secure it properly, it will even keep strong dogs inside
- When you consider the versatility, it’s very affordable
Cons:
- It won’t work if your dog likes to climb
- Although assembly is easy, the weight makes it a bit hard to move around
Raresy Pet Playpen
Fold and go
Being an on-the-go family is lots of fun, but sometimes taking your pup along can be tricky. For example, when you visit friends, family, or the park and you’re ready to sit and eat, you’ll need a safe place for your pooch to hang out while you’re busy. This pet playpen from Raresy is an excellent way to handle that. It’s available in several colors and sizes to make sure you can find the right one for you and your pet, and popping it up is nearly effortless. And when you’re ready to go, simply place it back in the included bag.
Pros:
- Dogs love the den-like feeling of this pet tent
- It is so lightweight and compact that you can take it hiking or camping without it weighing you down
- Washable, waterproof fabric makes it easy to clean
Cons:
- Can be chewed through
- The tent can blow away in the wind if it isn’t weighed down
New Age Pet ecoFLEX End Table Crate
Multi-functional design
Why do so many crates and cages look so industrial? Those interested in an alternative style would be wise to check out New Age Pet’s ecoFLEX crate. It comes in several sizes and finishes, so finding one to match your home decor is a simple task. Even better? Assembly requires no tools, and it only takes a few minutes. Once it’s up, two latches make it a secure place for your pup, and the top works as a convenient place to set your coffee or a lamp.
Pros:
- This crate looks much better in your living space than most other options
- It’s versatile and doubles as a table, so it won’t just get in the way like other crates
- Cleaning is a breeze
Cons:
- Chewers can damage it in no time
- It’s not as sturdy as it could be with metal screws
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a cage for my dog?
Although none of us like the thought of putting our dogs in cages, crate training is an essential part of pet ownership. Even if you train your dog as a puppy and never use the crate again, it’s necessary to have the foundation. In addition, if you ever have an emergency, such as a fire, flood, or other problem, it will give you a fast and safe way to keep them nearby and secure. Many dogs love their crates because it gives them a nice and cozy way to feel like they’re in their own little den.
How do I know which cage is best for my pet?
Choosing a cage isn’t as hard as you may think. There are several styles, and they all have their pros and cons. For example, playpens are ideal for puppies and small dogs who need a secure place to hang out when you’re busy, but they aren’t great for big dogs or those who tend to try and escape. Heavy-duty crates are the opposite: they keep your dogs safe and prevent them from breaking out. They’re perfect for large dogs.
Paneled sections offer the best of both worlds. They can create a fenced-in area that will contain dogs while providing a ton of space for them to play and relax.
About the Author
Why Trust Us
Since 2008, DogTime has served as a leading resource for millions of dog owners and pet lovers alike. Our goal is to give every dog and pet a happy, healthy home by providing owners with all the information they need to be the best pet parents possible. Our experts share their insights and recommendations to make caring for your beloved pets a breeze.