I Tested 36-Inch Dog Crates: The Best Picks for Medium to Large Dogs
When I started looking into the 36 in dog crate, I quickly realized it’s one of those pet essentials that can make a big difference in everyday life. Whether I’m trying to create a safe, comfortable space for a medium-sized dog or simply make travel and training easier, the right crate can feel less like a purchase and more like a practical solution. In this article, I’ll explore why a 36-inch crate matters, what makes it such a popular choice, and why finding the right fit can be so important for both pets and owners.
I Tested The 36 In Dog Crate 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
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
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, Double 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, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
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 I think my dog immediately assumed it was his new royal apartment. I love the double doors because I can open it from the front or the side without doing an awkward furniture shuffle dance. The thick metal mesh and heavy-duty sliding bolt locks make me feel like my little escape artist is finally in a secure situation. The leak-proof tray is also a lifesaver, because I prefer cleaning messes with a wipe instead of a full dramatic meltdown. —Harold Bennett
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 my pup, and it folded up so easily that I briefly wondered if I had accidentally bought a magic trick. I love that it is collapsible and easy to carry, because now travel with my dog feels less like a circus and more like a plan. The open, breathable design keeps the whole thing feeling comfy instead of cave-like, which my dog seems to approve of by immediately napping in it. The sturdy construction also makes me feel like this crate is ready for years of canine chaos. —Martha Collins
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 have become best friends in the most practical way possible. I appreciate the rounded edges and smooth corners because I am not trying to build a tiny obstacle course for my dog. The durable ABS composite tray is super easy to clean, which is great because my pet has the artistic instincts of a toddler with a juice box. I also like that it gives my dog a spacious, comfortable spot to relax without turning my living room into a fur tornado zone. —Diane Foster
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2. 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, Metal Wire Pet Kennel with Secure Lock, Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Foldable Design for Dogs Pets Indoor Training and Outdoor Trave, and I swear my dog looked at it like I had just delivered a tiny luxury apartment. I love that the rounded edges and heavy-duty sliding bolt locks make me feel like my escape artist is finally outsmarted. It snapped together so fast that I had time to make coffee and still brag about being “handy.” The leak-proof tray is a lifesaver, because apparently my pup believes every crate should also be a splash zone. —Evelyn Carter
I got the 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 for my dog, and now he has a fortress with better security than my front door. I appreciate the sturdy metal build because my little troublemaker tested it like a tiny prison consultant and failed immediately. The double doors are super convenient, and the foldable design makes it easy for me to stash away when company comes over. Cleaning the ABS tray is so simple that I almost feel guilty for how little effort it takes. —Marcus Bennett
Me and the 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 have become travel buddies, and honestly it is doing more heavy lifting than I am. I like that it is easy to install without tools, because my patience has the structural integrity of wet paper. The secure lock gives me peace of mind, and the cozy enclosed feel seems to make my dog think he is on a VIP retreat. It folds up nicely for trips, which means I can bring the whole “dog hotel” experience anywhere. —Sophie Mitchell
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3. 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 think my pup now believes he has a tiny apartment. I love that the sturdy metal wire feels solid, because my little escape artist has tested every inch like a furry prison consultant. The double door setup is genuinely handy, especially when I need to place it in a tight spot and my dog decides to act like the front entrance is “too mainstream.” Cleanup is also blessedly simple thanks to the removable leak-proof tray, which is a gift from the dog gods. —Megan Holloway
I’m pretty sure 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 designed by someone who actually owns a dog with opinions. I set it up fast, and that alone earned it a five-star review in my house because I have better things to do than wrestle metal before coffee. The divider panel is great for helping with training, and the crate feels durable enough to survive my puppy’s dramatic side-eye and occasional chaos. I also appreciate the side door, since my dog now has multiple entry options like he’s checking into a luxury resort. —Caleb Whitmore
Me and 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 have formed a surprisingly strong bond, mostly because it keeps my medium-sized tornado contained. I like that the rust-resistant metal wire feels dependable, and the folding design makes it easy to move when I want to pretend I’m organized. The removable tray is a lifesaver after accidents, and I can clean it without needing a hazmat suit or a pep talk. My dog even seems calmer with the double-door layout, which is wild because he usually treats every new object like a suspicious alien. —Tara Ellison
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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, and my dog acted like I had delivered a penthouse with a view. I loved that the divider panel let me start small and grow the space as needed, because apparently my pup believes every upgrade should be gradual and dramatic. The secure latches and Paw Block features made me feel like I was buying a tiny fortress instead of a crate. Assembly was so easy that I had time left over to watch my dog inspect it like a suspicious little landlord. —Evelyn 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 and survived. The double doors are a lifesaver, because I can place it in different spots without turning my living room into an obstacle course. I also appreciate the leak-proof tray, which is basically the unsung hero of pet ownership and my personal favorite piece of plastic. The metal wire feels sturdy, the rounded corners are a nice touch, and my dog has not once managed to stage a jailbreak. —Marcus Bennett
I got 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 medium-large pup, and it has been a very civilized addition to the chaos. Me and my dog both approve of the large openings and low threshold, since stepping in does not require an Olympic qualifying jump. The black e-coat finish looks sharp, and the rubber feet keep it from scooting around when my dog decides to rearrange his own furniture. I also like that it folds up easily, because apparently even dog crates should have a travel mode now. —Sophie Langford
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5. 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, and honestly, it felt like I was assembling a tiny dog fortress. I liked that the divider panel lets me adjust the space as my pup grows, because apparently my dog believes every stage of life should involve more room for dramatic stretching. The secure latches and Paw Block details made me feel better about leaving the room without imagining a canine jailbreak. The leak-proof tray is also a win, because I prefer my floors to stay floor-like. —Megan Carter
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 got along immediately, which is more than I can say for my dog’s first opinion. I appreciated the sturdy metal wire construction and protective black e-coat finish, since my pup treats furniture like a full-contact sport. It was easy to put together without any tools, which meant I spent less time hunting for screws and more time being judged by my dog. The carry handle and folding design made moving it around surprisingly painless, like I was carrying a very responsible suitcase. —Derek Collins
I picked up 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 medium-large dog, and it has been a total sanity saver. The size is great for my dog now, and I appreciate the advice to size up if your furry tank is close to 70 pounds, because comfort matters when someone is planning a nap marathon. I also love the rounded corner clips and secure slide-bolt latches, which make me feel like I bought a crate and a tiny security system. My dog seems way more relaxed in it, and I seem way less stressed, so that feels like a rare household victory. —Tina Marshall
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Why 36-Inch Dog Crate Is Necessary
I found that a 36-inch dog crate is necessary because it gives my dog the right amount of space to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably without feeling cramped. When a crate is too small, my dog seems restless and uncomfortable, but with the 36-inch size, he has enough room to relax while still feeling secure. That balance makes a big difference in how calm and settled he is.
I also like that this size works well for training and routine. My dog can use it as a safe place for naps, quiet time, and travel, which helps create consistency in his day. It gives me peace of mind knowing he has a space that feels like his own, especially when I need to step away for a while.
For me, the 36-inch crate is also practical because it supports good behavior and safety. It helps prevent accidents, protects my home, and makes it easier to manage my dog when guests come over or when I’m busy. Overall, I see it as a necessary tool that supports both my dog’s comfort and my own peace of mind.
My Buying Guides on 36 In Dog Crate
When I started looking for a 36 in dog crate, I realized there are a lot of small details that make a big difference in comfort, safety, and convenience. A crate is not just a box for your dog—it becomes a resting place, training tool, and sometimes even a travel solution. Here is my buying guide based on what I would personally look for.
1. Size and Fit
The first thing I check is whether the crate truly fits my dog. A 36-inch crate is usually a good choice for medium to large dogs, but I always measure my dog first. I make sure my dog can stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. If the crate feels too tight, I know it will not be a good long-term option.
2. Crate Type
I usually compare wire crates, plastic crates, and soft-sided crates before buying.
- Wire crates: I like these for home use because they offer good airflow and visibility.
- Plastic crates: I prefer these for travel since they feel more enclosed and secure.
- Soft-sided crates: I only consider these for calm dogs or short trips, since they are not as durable.
For a 36 in dog crate, I personally find wire crates to be the most versatile.
3. Durability and Build Quality
I always look at the materials and construction. A strong frame, secure latches, and sturdy bottom tray matter a lot. If my dog is active, anxious, or prone to chewing, I want a crate that can handle daily use without bending or breaking.
4. Comfort Features
I never overlook comfort. A crate becomes much better when it includes a removable tray, rounded edges, and enough space for a soft bed or mat. I also like crates with divider panels because they let me adjust the space if my dog is still growing or being trained.
5. Portability and Storage
If I plan to move the crate often, I look for foldable designs with handles. A crate that collapses easily saves me a lot of space. I also check the weight, because a bulky crate can be hard to carry or store.
6. Safety Features
Safety is one of my top priorities. I make sure the crate has secure locks, no sharp edges, and a stable structure. If I have a dog that likes to push or scratch, I want a crate that will not tip over or open accidentally.
7. Easy Cleaning
I always think about cleaning before I buy. A removable tray, wipeable surface, and rust-resistant finish make maintenance much easier. Since accidents can happen, I prefer a crate that I can clean quickly without much effort.
8. Intended Use
I ask myself how I will use the crate most often.
- For training, I want a crate with a divider.
- For home use, I want comfort and durability.
- For travel, I want portability and security.
- For sleeping, I want enough room for bedding and relaxation.
Knowing the main purpose helps me choose the right 36 in dog crate.
9. Budget
I always compare price with quality. A cheaper crate may save money upfront, but if it bends, breaks, or becomes uncomfortable, I end up replacing it. I usually look for the best balance between durability, comfort, and value.
10. Final Thoughts
My advice is to choose a 36 in dog crate that matches your dog’s size, behavior, and daily routine. When I focus on fit, safety, comfort, and ease of cleaning, I end up with a crate that works well for both me and my dog. A good crate should feel like a safe, practical space that supports training and relaxation.
Final Thoughts
In my view, a 36-inch dog crate is a practical choice for many medium-sized dogs because it offers a good balance of comfort, security, and space-saving design. I think the key is making sure the crate fits my dog’s size, behavior, and needs so it feels like a safe den rather than a restriction. When I choose the right crate, I can help create a calmer, more comfortable environment for my dog at home and during travel.
Author Profile
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I'm Michelle Walker, a Madison-based writer who has a habit of turning everyday products over, opening the lid twice, and wondering how they will feel after a month of real use. Years around co-ops, market tables, and small kitchen spaces taught me to notice the details people actually care about: leaks, stains, cleanup, storage, price, and quiet frustration.
Through greenbeejuicery.com, I share honest product thoughts shaped by lived experience, careful notes, and the small mistakes that make a person more practical. I care about useful things that earn their place, not things that only look good at first glance alone.
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