Small dogs deserve big comfort, too! The best crates for small dogs give your pint-sized pup a secure, cozy space — whether you’re crate training at home, heading out for a road trip, or flying across the country. From soft-sided travel crates to sturdy everyday options, we’ve rounded up five crates that combine convenience, safety, and comfort for your little companion.
What to Look for in Small Dog Crates
Just because your dog is tiny doesn’t mean their crate needs are small! Here’s what to consider before you buy:
- Lightweight but sturdy: Look for durable materials that are easy to carry but strong enough to last.
- Safety first: Small dogs can be wiggly and sneaky — choose crates with secure latches or zippers.
- Cozy interior: Smaller crates should feel snug and den-like, not cramped. Add a soft pad or blanket for comfort.
- Portability: If you travel often, collapsible or soft-sided crates are ideal.
- Easy to clean: Accidents happen, especially with younger pups, so removable trays or washable fabric liners are a must.
Types of Small Dog Crates
- Wire Crates: Classic and reliable. Wire crates offer great airflow and visibility — perfect for everyday use and training.
- Plastic or Travel Crates: Lightweight and secure for flights or car trips. They offer privacy and protection for nervous travelers.
- Soft-Sided Crates: Perfect for car rides, vet visits, or overnight trips. They’re lightweight, easy to store, and comfy for calm pups.
- Heavy-Duty or Collapsible Metal Crates: Strong but portable — great for small dogs who still have big energy.
- Hybrid or Modular Crates: Modern, stylish, and flexible. These often blend form and function for home and travel use.
Our Top 5 Small Dog Crates
Now that you know what to look for, let’s check out the best of the best!
Petmate Sky Kennel
If your small dog is your favorite travel buddy, the Petmate Sky Kennel is the gold standard for keeping them safe and comfortable on the go. Whether you’re taking a quick road trip or flying across the country, this sturdy, airline-approved crate gives your pup a secure, cozy spot to rest while you travel worry-free.
Top Features
- Heavy-duty plastic shell with a secure steel wire door and ventilation openings on all sides
- Meets most airline cargo specifications (always check with your carrier before travel)
- Comes with “Live Animal” labels, clip-on food and water dishes, and ID stickers
- Vault-style latch keeps the door locked tight and easy to operate
- Available in multiple small-breed sizes
- Made in the USA with recycled materials
What We Love
The Sky Kennel is perfect for pet parents who want both strength and comfort in a travel crate. The durable plastic build keeps your small dog safely enclosed while protecting them from external bumps, drafts, and temperature changes. Inside, the crate feels cozy and den-like — ideal for helping nervous travelers feel secure in busy environments like airports or rest stops.
We also love that it’s ready to go right out of the box. Petmate includes airline-compliant labels and accessories, so you’re not scrambling for extra pieces before your trip. For car rides, it’s just as dependable — it fits easily into most back seats and can double as a safe resting spot in hotels or Airbnbs. It’s a solid, no-fuss option for small dogs who travel often or prefer the quiet security of a more enclosed crate.
Things to Consider
Because it’s a hard-sided plastic crate, it’s not the easiest to store between trips. However, for frequent travelers or anxious pups who need a more sheltered environment, the Sky Kennel is worth every penny for the peace of mind it provides.
Give your big dog the gift of safe, comfortable travel with the Petmate Sky Kennel. Airline-approved and built tough, this durable plastic crate keeps your pup secure whether you’re flying cross-country or heading out on a weekend road trip.
MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry
If you’re looking for a reliable everyday crate that’s perfect for small dogs, the MidWest iCrate is a tried-and-true classic. It’s lightweight, secure, and easy to assemble, making it one of the most convenient wire crates for crate training, traveling, or everyday use at home.
Top Features
- Durable yet lightweight wire construction
- Double-door design for flexible placement and easy access
- Secure slide-bolt latches to keep tiny escape artists safe
- Divider panel included — perfect for growing puppies
- Leakproof removable pan for easy cleanup
- Folds flat for storage and travel
What We Love
The MidWest iCrate is a fantastic option for small breeds because it combines comfort, safety, and portability in one simple package. The sturdy wire frame gives your dog plenty of ventilation and visibility, helping them feel connected to you while still having their own secure little den. The smaller models are especially easy to carry around the house, so your dog can nap safely nearby while you work or relax.
We also love how beginner-friendly it is. The double-door design offers flexibility for setup in any space, and the included divider panel makes it ideal for crate training puppies or adjusting the space for comfort. It’s simple to clean, easy to fold, and budget-friendly — making it one of the best all-around crates for small dogs and their humans.
Things to Consider
The iCrate is durable for everyday use but not designed for serious chewers or dogs prone to anxiety-driven escapes. Adding a soft crate pad or blanket can make it quieter and cozier for pups who like to move around or nest.
The Midwest iCrate features:
- Two Door Design provides flexibility in placement in the home
- Folding Crate with carry handle makes for easy movement, setup or storage with no tools required
- ABS plastic handles allow for easy carrying
- Divider panel lets you adjust the living area as your pet grows
- Composite pan makes cleaning up accidents easy
- Safe and secure slide bolt latch
Impact Collapsible Dog Crate
When you want heavy-duty protection in a travel-friendly package, the Impact Collapsible Dog Crate delivers big-time security for small dogs. Built from aircraft-grade aluminum, this crate is strong enough for professional handlers yet compact and lightweight enough for everyday pet parents who need durability without bulk.
Top Features
- 100% aluminum frame that’s ultra-durable but surprisingly light
- Folds flat in seconds — no tools needed
- Ventilated panels provide airflow without sacrificing safety
- Stackable design for multi-dog households
- Lockable latches for added security
- Made in the USA and airline-approved
What We Love
The Impact Collapsible Crate is perfect for small dogs who travel often or who need an extra-secure space while you’re away. It feels rock-solid — no rattling or bending — yet it’s easy to lift, unfold, and set up in seconds. Small dogs can sometimes slip through looser wire crates, but the tight ventilation holes and reinforced edges here eliminate that worry completely.
We also love how thoughtfully it’s engineered. The collapsible design means you can store it in a closet or trunk without eating up precious space, and the powder-coated aluminum resists scratches and odors. Whether you’re using it for car trips, hotel stays, or as a long-term crate at home, it’s a top-tier option that gives both you and your pup a sense of calm and safety.
Things to Consider
It’s definitely a premium investment, but the quality is unmatched — especially if you need something built to last through years of travel and use. Since it’s metal, adding a soft mat or blanket helps make it cozier for smaller breeds who like cushioned comfort.
The Impact Collapsible Dog Crate delivers unmatched strength in a lightweight, travel-ready design. Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, it folds flat in seconds for easy storage while keeping your small dog safe, secure, and comfortable wherever life takes you.
PetSafe Happy Ride Collapsible Travel Crate
For small dogs who love tagging along for every errand and adventure, the PetSafe Happy Ride Collapsible Travel Crate is a road-trip essential. It’s designed to keep your pup safe, comfy, and secure during car rides — without sacrificing convenience or style.
Top Features
- Soft-sided yet structured frame that holds its shape
- Mesh panels for maximum ventilation and visibility
- Built-in seat belt loops to anchor it securely in your vehicle
- Folds flat for quick storage in your trunk or closet
- Removable, washable liner for easy cleanup
- Available in multiple small-breed sizes
What We Love
This crate strikes the perfect balance between flexibility and comfort. The soft-sided design makes it lightweight and easy to carry, while the internal frame keeps it sturdy and upright — no sagging or collapsing when your dog shifts around. The mesh sides let your pup keep an eye on you (and the scenery), which helps reduce travel anxiety for dogs who like to see what’s going on.
We also love how car-friendly it is. The seatbelt loops make installation effortless and secure, so you don’t have to worry about it sliding around when you turn or brake. When you reach your destination, just unclip it, fold it down, and tuck it away in seconds. For small dogs who are calm travelers and for pet parents who are always on the go, the Happy Ride Collapsible Crate makes every journey smoother — from vet visits to weekend getaways.
Things to Consider
Soft-sided crates aren’t built for heavy chewers or escape artists, so this one’s best for dogs who already travel well. Adding a cozy blanket or cushion will make it even more inviting for your little co-pilot.
The PetSafe Happy Ride Collapsible Travel Crate offers a secure, comfortable space for your dog during car rides. Its lightweight, foldable design makes it easy to store, while mesh panels provide ventilation and visibility. With a sturdy frame and safety straps, it ensures a stress-free and safe travel experience!
Diggs Evolv Dog Crate
If you love modern design and smart functionality, the Diggs Evolv Dog Crate is a total win for small dog parents. Designed to adapt as your pup grows or your space changes, this crate combines sleek aesthetics with everyday practicality. It’s ideal for apartment living or anyone who wants a crate that looks great and functions even better.
Top Features
- Modular design with four possible configurations, including playpen mode
- Clear acrylic panels and aluminum frame for visibility and safety
- Two secure doors for easy access and flexible placement
- Divider included for puppies or smaller dogs
- Tool-free assembly and collapsible for quick storage
- Smooth, modern look that complements any home décor
What We Love
The Evolv is all about flexibility — and that’s a game-changer for small dogs. You can start with a fully enclosed crate while your pup is still learning, then open it up into a playpen-style space once they’re more comfortable. The clear panels help your dog feel connected to you (no “left out” anxiety here!) while maintaining a cozy, den-like vibe.
We also love how well it fits into smaller homes. It’s lightweight, easy to move, and stylish enough to sit in plain sight without screaming “dog crate.” Assembly takes minutes, cleanup is quick, and the overall feel is calm and open — perfect for small breeds who thrive when they can see what’s going on around them. It’s the kind of crate that looks like furniture but works like gear designed by someone who gets life with dogs.
Things to Consider
Like most hybrid or design-forward crates, the Evolv isn’t intended for strong chewers or escape-prone pups. It’s best for small dogs who are already crate-trained and just need a comfortable, beautiful space to call their own.
The Diggs Evolv grows with your dog — literally. Its modular aluminum and acrylic design lets you transform it from a secure crate to an open playpen. Chic, durable, and easy to assemble, it’s a modern take on large-dog comfort.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right small dog crate is all about balancing comfort, safety, and convenience — for both you and your pint-sized companion. Whether your pup is a frequent flyer, a snuggly homebody, or your everyday car co-pilot, there’s a perfect fit out there.
No matter which you choose, remember that a crate isn’t a cage — it’s a personal sanctuary for your dog. With the right introduction and a few cozy touches, it becomes their favorite place to relax, recharge, and feel safe.
