Glossary

Dog crate

A box or cage that provides a dog with a safe, enclosed space at home or in a car; it should be large enough to stand, turn and lie down in.

Also called: dog crate, kennel, wire crate, plastic crate, soft crate, crate size, den

A dog crate is an enclosed, den-like space for a dog, made of wire, plastic, fabric or wood. Owners use one to confine a dog safely at home, for sleeping, for travel and during recovery. A good crate lets the dog stand, turn around and lie down in a natural position.

Wire crates give ventilation and fold flat, plastic crates feel more enclosed, and soft crates are light but not suitable for dogs that chew. Puppies need a crate sized for their adult size, with a divider to reduce the space until they grow.

A crate is a tool and not a place for punishment or for very long hours of confinement. A dog needs exercise, company and toilet breaks. For larger spaces consider an exercise pen, and for cars or flights use a travel crate or an airline pet carrier that meets the rules.

Last reviewed November 8, 2026

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Related terms

Exercise pen A freestanding set of hinged panels that forms a portable fenced area for a dog, bigger than a crate and easy to fold away. Travel crate A sturdy, ventilated crate used to carry or secure a dog in a vehicle or for transport, built to stay closed in a collision. Airline pet carrier A carrier that meets an airline's size and construction rules for a dog travelling in the cabin under a seat, or in a larger hard crate in the hold. Dog car seat and restraint A booster seat, harness or secured crate that holds a dog in place in a vehicle, protecting both the dog and the people from injury in a sudden stop or crash.