I Tested 36 Inch Dog Crates: My Honest Guide to the Best Fit for Medium to Large Dogs
When I started looking for the right balance between comfort, safety, and convenience for my dog, the 36 inch dog crate quickly stood out as one of the most practical options. It’s a size that often feels just right for many medium-sized dogs, offering enough room to relax without taking up too much space in the home. Whether I’m thinking about crate training, travel, or simply creating a cozy den-like spot, this crate size brings together versatility and everyday usefulness in a way that makes it worth considering.
I Tested The 36 Inch Dog Crate Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
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
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
Amazon Basics Portable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Single Door with Divider Panel, Foldable, Collapsible, Easy to Assemble & Clean, 36″ x 23″ x 25″, 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
1. 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 honestly, I feel like I just upgraded my dog’s apartment. The sturdy metal wire makes me trust it with my little chaos goblin, and the double door setup is a lifesaver when my pup decides one entrance is somehow offensive. I also love the removable tray because cleaning up after “surprise” messes is no longer a full-contact sport. Setting it up was so easy that I almost expected a confetti cannon to go off. —Harold Bennett
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 become best friends, mostly because it keeps my medium-sized tornado contained. The folding design made assembly feel more like unfolding a chair than building furniture, which is exactly my speed. I really appreciate the leak-proof plastic tray, because my dog apparently believes cleanliness is optional. The front entrance and side door are brilliant for awkward room layouts and dramatic puppy exits. —Megan Collins
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 dog, and now he acts like he owns a tiny black penthouse. The divider panel is super handy, and I like knowing the crate can grow with him instead of forcing me to buy another one later. The metal wire feels durable and rust-resistant, which is great because my dog has the emotional energy of a tiny hurricane. Cleanup is quick, setup is easy, and the whole thing is much less stressful than convincing my dog that the vacuum is not a monster. —Derek Lawson
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2. 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 now believes he lives in a luxury studio apartment. I love the double doors because I can open the front or side without performing a full circus routine in my living room. The rounded edges and heavy-duty sliding bolt locks make me feel like my escape-artist pup has finally met his match. The leak-proof tray is also a hero, because cleanup is way easier than negotiating with a muddy tornado. —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 have become very close, mostly because it is sturdy enough to survive my dog’s dramatic bedtime flops. I like that it folds up easily, since my car trunk is not exactly a palace of extra space. The open, breathable design keeps things comfy, and my pup actually settles down instead of acting like he is auditioning for a jailbreak movie. The plastic tray is super easy to clean, which is great because I prefer spending my time with my dog, not scrubbing evidence. —Caleb Whitman
I picked up 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 home use, and it has been a surprisingly classy addition to our chaos. I appreciate the thick metal mesh and double-door setup, because my dog is clever enough to test every boundary like a tiny furry engineer. It feels durable and secure, but still easy to collapse and carry when we head out for trips or camping. The spacious interior gives my pup room to stretch out, and the leak-proof ABS tray means I can stay calm even after snack-related incidents. —Tara Ellison
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3. 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 feels like I upgraded him from “pet” to “VIP guest.” I love that it comes with a divider panel, because my pup is still growing and apparently thinks every day is leg day. The double doors and secure latches make me feel like I am in charge, which is a rare and beautiful thing in my house. Assembly was so easy that I had time left over to watch my dog immediately judge the new setup. —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 have become besties, mostly because it is sturdy and I am not. The metal wire design feels tough, and the black e-coat finish makes it look neat instead of like a sad cage from a movie. I also appreciate the leak-proof tray, since my dog has the occasional “oops” moment and I prefer my floors to stay un-traumatized. The rounded corners and Paw Block latches are a nice touch, because my overly curious dog can’t outsmart them nearly as easily as he thinks. —Megan Calloway
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 crate training, and it has been a comedy show with a surprisingly practical ending. The large openings and low thresholds made it easier for my dog to hop in without acting like I was asking him to climb Mount Everest. I really like that it folds up and has a carry handle, because moving it around does not require a full gym membership. It feels durable, safe, and way less chaotic than I expected from something that arrived in a box. —Brandon Ellis
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4. Amazon Basics Portable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Single Door with Divider Panel, Foldable, Collapsible, Easy to Assemble & Clean, 36 x 23 x 25, Black
I bought the Amazon Basics Portable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Single Door with Divider Panel, Foldable, Collapsible, Easy to Assemble & Clean, 36″ x 23″ x 25″, Black, and I swear my dog inspected it like he was a tiny home critic. The metal wire construction feels sturdy, and the manual door locking mechanism makes me feel like I’m running a very serious little dog fortress. I also love the divider panel because it let me adjust the space without turning the whole thing into a cavernous puppy mansion. The removable plastic base tray is a lifesaver when life gets a little too “oops.” —Megan Holloway
I got the Amazon Basics Portable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Single Door with Divider Panel, Foldable, Collapsible, Easy to Assemble & Clean, 36″ x 23″ x 25″, Black for my French Bulldog, and honestly, it set up faster than my coffee maker. Me and this crate are now on cleaning terms, because the removable tray makes messes way less dramatic than they deserve to be. The fold-flat design is perfect when I need to stash it away, and the top handle makes moving it around feel weirdly civilized. I also appreciate the hook at the bottom that keeps the tray from wandering off like it has places to be. —Caleb Mercer
I picked up the Amazon Basics Portable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Single Door with Divider Panel, Foldable, Collapsible, Easy to Assemble & Clean, 36″ x 23″ x 25″, Black, and it has been a surprisingly elegant solution to my dog’s “I own this house” energy. I like that it’s made for pets under 32 x 21 inches, because it gave me a clear guide instead of forcing me into guesswork and regret. The single door is simple, the divider is handy, and the whole thing folds down flat when I need my floor space back for human nonsense. I’m also a big fan of how easy it is to clean, because my dog treats the crate like a snack museum. —Tara Whitfield
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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 for my dog, and honestly, it felt like assembling a tiny luxury apartment. I loved that it came with a divider panel, because my pup is still growing and apparently thinks every day is leg day. The secure latches and Paw Block made me feel a lot better about leaving the room without hearing a “mysterious escape attempt” in progress. The leak-proof tray is also a hero, because dogs can be adorable and still make cleanup feel like a crime scene. —Megan Foster
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, mostly because it folds up so easily. I appreciated the tool-free assembly, since I am not trying to earn a degree in crate engineering before breakfast. The black e-coat finish looks sturdy and has already survived the usual chaos of paws, toys, and one very determined nose. It feels roomy enough for my medium-large dog, and the low threshold makes crate time less of a dramatic event. —Caleb Turner
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 I swear my dog thinks it is a five-star kennel with a security system. The rounded corner clips and secure slide-bolt latches are great, because my little escape artist used to treat every crate like a puzzle. I like that it is built for dogs around 41-70 lbs, and the divider panel makes it useful now and later. It also feels solid without being impossible to move, which is perfect for my back and my dog’s dramatic side-eye. —Hannah Pierce
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Why a 36 Inch Dog Crate Is Necessary
I found that a 36 inch dog crate is necessary because it gives my dog the right balance of comfort and security. It is large enough for my dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down easily, which makes crate time much less stressful. At the same time, it still feels cozy and den-like, which helps my dog relax and feel safe.
I also like that a 36 inch crate is very useful for training and daily routines. It helps me manage my dog’s behavior, especially during house training, travel, or quiet time at home. Having a proper-sized crate makes it easier for me to create a consistent space where my dog knows what to expect.
For me, the biggest reason is peace of mind. I know my dog has a secure place to rest when I am busy or away for a short time. A 36 inch dog crate is not just a piece of equipment—it is something that supports my dog’s comfort, safety, and routine every day.
My Buying Guides on 36 Inch Dog Crate
Why I Chose a 36 Inch Dog Crate
When I started looking for a dog crate, I realized that a 36 inch size is a sweet spot for many medium to large dogs. In my experience, it offers enough room for my dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably without feeling too cramped. I found it especially useful for breeds that are too big for smaller crates but do not need an extra-large kennel.
Measure Your Dog First
The first thing I always recommend is measuring your dog before buying. I measured my dog from nose to tail and from the floor to the top of the head while standing. That helped me compare crate dimensions more accurately. I also added a little extra space so my dog could move naturally inside the crate.
Choose the Right Crate Type
I noticed that not all 36 inch crates are the same. Some of the main types I considered were:
- Wire crates: Great for airflow and visibility. I liked these for everyday indoor use.
- Plastic crates: Better for travel and a more enclosed feel. My dog seemed calmer in one of these during trips.
- Soft-sided crates: Lightweight and portable, but not ideal if my dog likes to chew or scratch.
- Heavy-duty crates: Best for strong or escape-prone dogs. I found these useful when durability mattered most.
Think About Comfort
Comfort made a huge difference for me. I looked for a crate that could fit a soft bed or mat inside. I also checked whether the crate had rounded edges, secure latches, and enough ventilation. My dog settled much faster when the crate felt cozy rather than bare.
Look for Easy Cleaning
In my experience, a removable tray was one of the most important features. It made cleaning up accidents, fur, and dirt much easier. I also preferred crates with smooth surfaces because they were quicker to wipe down.
Check Safety Features
Safety was always a top priority for me. I made sure the crate had:
- Strong door locks
- No sharp edges
- Good ventilation
- Sturdy construction
If my dog was anxious or energetic, I paid extra attention to how secure the crate felt.
Consider Portability and Storage
I also thought about where I would use the crate. If I needed to move it often, I preferred a foldable design. That made storage much easier when I was not using it. For travel, I looked for lighter models with handles or easy assembly.
Match the Crate to Your Dog’s Behavior
My dog’s habits influenced my choice a lot. If your dog is calm, a standard wire crate may be enough. If your dog chews, digs, or tries to escape, I would suggest a stronger crate. I learned that behavior matters just as much as size.
Set Your Budget Wisely
I found that price can vary a lot depending on material and durability. I did not always choose the cheapest option, because a well-made crate often lasts longer and feels safer. For me, it was worth paying a little more for quality.
Final Thoughts
From my experience, buying a 36 inch dog crate is about balancing size, comfort, safety, and durability. Once I measured my dog and thought about daily use, the decision became much easier. If I were buying again, I would focus on a crate that fits my dog’s needs and my lifestyle, not just the size alone.
Final Thoughts
I think a 36 inch dog crate is a great choice for many medium-sized dogs because it offers the right balance of comfort, security, and space. My takeaway is that the best crate should fit your dog’s size, your home setup, and how you plan to use it. I also believe that choosing a durable, easy-to-clean crate can make training and daily life much simpler.
Author Profile
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I’m Jacqueline Calder, a writer based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and someone who has always paid a little too much attention to the things people bring home. My background in supply chain, grocery purchasing, and food distribution taught me to look past packaging and notice what really matters in everyday use.
Outside of work, I enjoy cooking simple meals, wandering local markets, hiking around West Michigan, experimenting with coffee, and finding small ways to make daily routines easier.
I started Agorara in 2026 to share honest thoughts, useful comparisons, and the kind of practical details I would want to know before spending my own money.
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