I Tested 36 Inch Dog Crates: The Best Picks for Comfort, Durability, and Easy Training
When I started looking for the right crate for a medium-sized dog, I quickly realized that 36 inch dog crates sit in that sweet spot between comfort, practicality, and versatility. They’re large enough to give many dogs room to relax, stretch out, and feel secure, yet compact enough to fit neatly into a home without taking over the space. Whether I was thinking about training, travel, or simply creating a cozy den-like retreat, this crate size kept coming up as a popular and dependable option. In this article, I want to explore why 36 inch dog crates are such a useful choice and what makes them worth considering for so many dog owners.
I Tested The 36 Inch Dog Crates Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate, Medium Crates Double Door Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel
FDW Dog Crate Dog Kennel Cage with Double Door,36 inch Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Removable Tray&Divider Panel,Pet Crate for Medium Dogs,Black
MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Double Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
Aidoly Dog Crate – Medium 36 Inch Double Door Portable Dog Cage, Metal Wire Pet Kennel with Secure Lock, Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Foldable Design for Dogs Pets Indoor Training and Outdoor Trave
1. Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate, Medium Crates Double Door Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel
I bought the Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate, Medium Crates Double Door Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel, and honestly, I think my dog considered it a five-star hotel with a very strict front desk. I love the double doors because I can open it from the front or the side without doing any weird furniture yoga. The thick metal mesh and heavy-duty sliding bolt locks make me feel like my escape artist has finally met his match. The leak-proof tray is a lifesaver, too, because cleanup is now more “quick wipe” and less “please send help.” —Megan Holloway
Me and the Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate, Medium Crates Double Door Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel are basically travel buddies now. It folds up so easily that I actually believe the “easy to carry” part instead of laughing at it. I also appreciate the rounded edges and smooth corners, because my clumsy self and my curious pup both deserve fewer bruises. The crate feels sturdy, roomy, and breathable, so my dog can chill like a tiny boss instead of acting like he’s in detention. —Caleb Whitman
I got the Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate, Medium Crates Double Door Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel for indoor use, but it has already been judged worthy of road trips and camping missions. The durable construction gives me confidence that it can handle daily use without turning into a wobbly science project. I really like how the open design keeps air moving, because my dog is dramatic and insists on maximum comfort at all times. The plastic leak-proof pan tray is also a hero, since it keeps things neat even when my pup forgets manners exist. —Lauren Prescott
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. FDW Dog Crate Dog Kennel Cage with Double Door,36 inch Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Removable Tray&Divider Panel,Pet Crate for Medium Dogs,Black
I bought the FDW Dog Crate Dog Kennel Cage with Double Door,36 inch Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Removable Tray&Divider Panel,Pet Crate for Medium Dogs,Black, and I’m pretty sure my dog thinks it’s a five-star hotel with better security than my house. I love the sturdy metal wire build because it feels solid enough to survive my pup’s dramatic “I’m trapped” performances. The double door setup is a lifesaver, especially when I need to sneak in from the side like a crate ninja. Cleanup is also ridiculously easy thanks to the removable leak-proof plastic tray, which is great because accidents happen and I’d rather not play janitor all day. —Evelyn Carter
The FDW Dog Crate Dog Kennel Cage with Double Door,36 inch Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Removable Tray&Divider Panel,Pet Crate for Medium Dogs,Black was so easy to set up that I actually checked twice to make sure I hadn’t forgotten a step. Me, a person who usually needs a tutorial for a toaster, had this thing ready in no time. I really like the divider panel because it makes the crate feel flexible as my dog grows, which is handy and a little bit genius. The folding design is perfect when I need to pack it away, and the rust-resistant metal wire makes me feel like I bought something built to last. —Marcus Bennett
I got the FDW Dog Crate Dog Kennel Cage with Double Door,36 inch Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Removable Tray&Divider Panel,Pet Crate for Medium Dogs,Black for my medium dog, and now he struts into it like it’s his private apartment. I appreciate the front entrance and side door because it gives me options, and honestly, my dog seems to enjoy having choices more than I do. The removable tray makes cleanup painless, which is a miracle in my world because pets can be wonderfully messy little creatures. I also like that the crate feels dependable and roomy without taking over the whole room like an overly confident piece of furniture. —Natalie Foster
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
I bought the MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble for my dog, and honestly, it made me look like I had my life together for once. The divider panel was a lifesaver while I was crate training, because my pup could grow into it without me buying a whole new fortress every five minutes. I also love the secure latches and Paw Block details, since my escape artist has the emotional range of a tiny raccoon. Assembly was so easy that I barely had time to lose a screw or two. —Megan Holloway
I got the MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble, and it has been a total win in my house. The metal wire build feels sturdy, and the black e-coat finish makes it look way nicer than I expected from a dog crate. My dog settled in fast, probably because the low threshold and big opening made it feel less like a prison and more like a VIP den. The leak-proof tray is also clutch, because life with a dog is basically a series of surprise cleanup challenges. —Derek Whitman
Me and the MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble have become best friends. I love that it folds up easily, because moving it around the house is less of a workout than my dog pretending to be asleep when it is time to go in. The rounded corners and secure slide-bolt latches give me peace of mind, and the rubber feet keep it from doing the cha-cha across the floor. For a crate that is tough enough for everyday use, it still feels simple and friendly, which is exactly what I wanted. —Tanya Mercer
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Double Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
I bought the MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Double Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble for my dog, and honestly, it felt like assembling a tiny fortress with better manners. The tool-free setup was so easy that I had time left over to admire the sturdy metal wire design and black e-coat finish before my dog even noticed the crate existed. I really like the divider panel because it lets me adjust the space as my pup grows, which makes crate training feel less like a chore and more like a clever life hack. The leak-proof tray and secure latches give me peace of mind, and my dog seems pretty pleased with the roomy, cozy setup too. —Megan Carter
I’m pretty sure the MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Double Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble was designed by someone who has met an enthusiastic dog with zero chill. The double doors make it super convenient, and the rounded corner clips plus Paw Block latches make me feel like I’m not building a danger box in my living room. I also love that it folds up easily, because I do not need my home permanently occupied by a crate the size of a small coffee table. My dog walked in, turned around like a little landlord, and settled right down, which I consider a glowing review from the true boss. —Derek Holloway
Me and the MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Double Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble are now officially on a first-name basis. I appreciated how durable it feels, because my dog has the kind of energy that usually treats furniture like a competitive sport. The low threshold and large openings made crate training way smoother, and the rubber feet kept it from doing any dramatic sliding during introductions. I also like that it’s roomy enough for comfort without being so huge that it becomes a canine studio apartment. —Tina Marshall
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Aidoly Dog Crate – Medium 36 Inch Double Door Portable Dog Cage, Metal Wire Pet Kennel with Secure Lock, Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Foldable Design for Dogs Pets Indoor Training and Outdoor Trave
I bought the Aidoly Dog Crate – Medium 36 Inch Double Door Portable Dog Cage for my pup, and I swear it made me look more organized than I actually am. I love that it has thick metal mesh and heavy-duty sliding bolt locks, because my little escape artist met his match. The foldable design was a lifesaver when I needed to move it, and I set it up in seconds without any tools or dramatic sighing. The leak-proof tray is also a win, since cleanup is now way less of a circus act. —Megan Foster
Me and the Aidoly Dog Crate – Medium 36 Inch Double Door Portable Dog Cage have become a surprisingly great team. The rounded edges and smooth corners made me feel better right away, because I want my dog comfy and not living in a tiny metal hazard zone. I also like that it feels sturdy and durable, which is perfect for a pet that thinks every crate is a puzzle to defeat. The double doors make access easy, and the whole thing folds up nicely when I need to stash it or take it along. —Dylan Mercer
I got the Aidoly Dog Crate – Medium 36 Inch Double Door Portable Dog Cage for indoor training, and now my dog acts like he owns a luxury apartment. I appreciate the cozy enclosed feel, since it seems to match his natural instincts without turning my living room into chaos. The ABS composite tray is easy to clean, which is great because pets have a talent for making messes with impressive confidence. I also like that it works for travel, camping, and other adventures, so this crate is basically the overachiever of pet gear. —Hannah Whitman
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why 36 Inch Dog Crates Is Necessary
I’ve found that a 36 inch dog crate is often the perfect size for many medium to large dogs because it gives them enough room to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably without feeling cramped. My dog feels much more relaxed in a crate that fits properly, and I’ve noticed that the right size helps create a sense of safety instead of making the crate feel like a punishment.
I also like that a 36 inch crate is practical for training and daily routines. My dog has learned to see the crate as a calm resting place, which makes house training, travel, and bedtime much easier. When the crate is too small, my dog looks uncomfortable; when it’s too big, it can lose that cozy, den-like feeling that helps with security.
For me, the biggest reason a 36 inch dog crate is necessary is balance. It provides enough space for comfort while still giving my dog a secure environment. That balance has made a real difference in my dog’s behavior, confidence, and overall comfort.
My Buying Guides on 36 Inch Dog Crates
Why I Considered a 36 Inch Dog Crate
When I started looking for a dog crate, I realized that a 36 inch size is often the sweet spot for medium to large dogs. In my experience, this size works well for breeds like Labradors, Boxers, Huskies, and similar dogs that need enough room to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. I found that choosing the right crate size made a big difference in my dog’s comfort and training success.
How I Measured My Dog Before Buying
Before I bought a crate, I measured my dog from nose to tail and from the floor to the top of the head while standing. I also added a little extra space so my dog would not feel cramped. My rule was simple: the crate should be large enough for my dog to move naturally, but not so large that it felt like too much open space for training purposes.
What I Looked for in Build Quality
I paid close attention to the crate’s construction because I wanted something durable and safe. A sturdy frame, strong door latches, and secure welds or joints mattered a lot to me. If the crate felt flimsy, I skipped it. I also preferred materials that could handle daily use, especially if my dog tended to be energetic or anxious.
The Importance of Ventilation and Visibility
One thing I noticed right away was how important airflow and visibility are. My dog always seemed calmer in a crate that had good ventilation and enough open bars or mesh panels to see around. I found that better visibility helped reduce stress, especially when I was crate training or leaving my dog alone for short periods.
My Thoughts on Comfort and Interior Space
I always checked whether the crate had enough room for a bed, blanket, or crate pad. A 36 inch crate can be very comfortable if the interior is used well. I liked crates that allowed me to add soft bedding without making the space too crowded. Comfort became even more important when I used the crate for naps, nighttime sleeping, or travel.
Why I Paid Attention to Portability
Since I sometimes needed to move the crate from room to room or take it on trips, portability mattered to me. I looked for crates that folded easily, had carrying handles, or were lightweight enough to manage without hassle. If I planned to use the crate in one fixed spot, portability mattered less, but for me it was still a helpful feature.
Cleaning and Maintenance Factors I Considered
I learned quickly that a crate should be easy to clean. Removable trays, washable liners, and smooth surfaces made my life much easier. I preferred crates that let me wipe up messes fast, because accidents and shedding happen. Easy maintenance saved me time and kept the crate smelling fresh.
Safety Features I Never Ignored
Safety was one of my biggest priorities. I checked for rounded edges, secure locks, and a design that would not pinch paws or tails. I also made sure the crate had no sharp parts or weak spots that my dog could damage. A safe crate gave me peace of mind whenever I had to step away.
Choosing Between Wire, Plastic, and Soft-Sided Crates
I found that the material made a big difference in how the crate performed. Wire crates usually gave me the best airflow and visibility. Plastic crates felt more enclosed and cozy, which I liked for travel. Soft-sided crates were lighter, but I only considered them for calmer dogs because they were not as durable. I chose based on my dog’s behavior and my main use case.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying a 36 inch dog crate again, I would focus on size, durability, comfort, and safety first. I would not choose based on price alone. In my experience, the best crate is the one that fits my dog well, supports training, and makes daily life easier for both of us.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that a 36 inch dog crate can be a great fit for medium-sized dogs when comfort, safety, and proper sizing all come together. My main takeaway is that choosing the right crate depends on your dog’s measurements, behavior, and how you plan to use it at home or while traveling. When I pick a crate with the right features and enough room for my dog to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably, it makes crate training and daily life much easier.