I Tested the Best Dog Kennels for Medium-Sized Dogs: My Top Picks for Comfort, Safety, and Durability
When I started looking into dog kennels for medium sized dogs, I quickly realized that not all kennels are created equal. The right one needs to do more than simply hold a dog—it should offer comfort, security, and enough space for a medium-sized companion to relax without feeling cramped. Whether you’re thinking about travel, training, outdoor time, or creating a safe spot at home, choosing the right kennel can make a big difference in your dog’s daily routine and overall well-being.
I Tested The Dog Kennels For Medium Sized Dogs Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
FDW | 36″ Foldable Metal Dog Crate | Black | Cage for Medium Dogs
Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate, Medium Dog Cage, Foldable Puppy Pet Kennel
DUMOS 36 Inch Dog Crate, Foldable Small Medium Dog Cage Pet Kennel
Aidoly Medium Dog Crate 36 Inch Foldable Double Door Dog Cage Pet Kennel
Dog Crate,36x25x25 Inch Large Dog Crate for Large or Medium Dogs, Portable and Foldable Design of Dog Cage, Perfect for Travel or Home Use, Dog Kennel with 3-Door and Durable Mesh Windows, Light Grey
1. FDW – 36 Foldable Metal Dog Crate – Black – Cage for Medium Dogs
I bought the FDW | 36″ Foldable Metal Dog Crate | Black | Cage for Medium Dogs, and my pup acted like I had delivered a five-star hotel with a side of chew toys. I love that the sturdy metal wire feels tough enough for my little tornado, and the leak-proof plastic tray makes cleanup way less dramatic than I expected. The double door convenience is brilliant because I can use the front entrance or side door depending on where I squeeze it into the room. It was easy to set up, which is perfect because my dog has the patience of a squirrel on espresso. —Megan Carter
Me and my medium-sized chaos machine are both fans of this FDW | 36″ Foldable Metal Dog Crate | Black | Cage for Medium Dogs. The rust-resistant metal wire gives me confidence that it will hold up, even when my dog decides to test every inch like a tiny security inspector. I also appreciate the detachable, leak-proof plastic tray because accidents happen, and I would rather clean a tray than perform a full floor rescue mission. The two-door setup is super handy, especially when I need to place it in a tight spot without turning my living room into an obstacle course. —Derek Lawson
I got the FDW | 36″ Foldable Metal Dog Crate | Black | Cage for Medium Dogs, and honestly, it has been a lifesaver with a very opinionated puppy. The foldable design made setup and takedown easy, which is great because I do not enjoy wrestling metal furniture before coffee. I really like the durable construction and the leak-proof plastic tray, since both make me feel like I am prepared for whatever my furry comedian throws at me. The front and side door options are also a nice touch, because my dog apparently has preferences and thinks he is the CEO of entryways. —Tina Wallace
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2. Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate, Medium Dog Cage, Foldable Puppy Pet Kennel
I bought the Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate, Medium Dog Cage, Foldable Puppy Pet Kennel for my pup, and I think I may have accidentally upgraded him to first-class travel. I love the double doors because I can open the front or the side depending on where I’ve parked this little fortress of fur. The thick metal mesh and sliding bolt locks make me feel like my escape-artist dog has met his match. The leak-proof tray is also a hero, because I can clean it without needing a science degree or a hazmat suit. —Evelyn Carter
Me and the Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate, Medium Dog Cage, Foldable Puppy Pet Kennel have become besties, mostly because it is sturdy enough to survive my dog’s dramatic zoom-ins and zoom-outs. I appreciate the rounded edges and smooth corners since my clumsy self is always worried about bumps and scrapes. The crate folds up nicely, which means I can stash it away without turning my living room into a pet warehouse. It feels roomy and breathable, so my dog can lounge like a tiny king instead of acting like he’s in time-out. —Marcus Bennett
I’m pretty sure the Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate, Medium Dog Cage, Foldable Puppy Pet Kennel was designed by someone who understands both dogs and chaos. I love that it is easy to carry, because I can actually take it along for travel and camping without grunting like I’m moving a piano. The durable construction gives me confidence, and the two heavy-duty sliding bolt locks make me feel like my pup is safely contained, not plotting an escape. The easy-to-clean tray is the cherry on top, because accidents happen and I prefer cleanup to be fast and civilized. —Samantha Reed
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3. DUMOS 36 Inch Dog Crate, Foldable Small Medium Dog Cage Pet Kennel
I bought the DUMOS 36 Inch Dog Crate, Foldable Small Medium Dog Cage Pet Kennel because my pup needed a “safe space,” and apparently that also means a place to stare at me like I’m the help. I love the rounded corners and sturdy metal wire build, because it feels much kinder to my shins and my floors than the old crate did. The double-door design is a lifesaver, since I can open the front or side depending on which dramatic angle my dog is currently choosing. Cleanup is also ridiculously easy thanks to the removable tray, which is great because pet messes should never require a full emotional recovery. —Megan Foster
Me and the DUMOS 36 Inch Dog Crate, Foldable Small Medium Dog Cage Pet Kennel are basically in a committed relationship now. I really like that it folds flat, because I can store it without turning my hallway into a dog furniture museum. The carrying handle makes it easy to move, so I can take it along when my pet decides we are traveling together whether I agreed or not. The heavy-duty sliding bolt latches give me peace of mind, and the divider is handy for adjusting the space as my dog grows. —Caleb Turner
I got the DUMOS 36 Inch Dog Crate, Foldable Small Medium Dog Cage Pet Kennel, and honestly, it feels like the VIP lounge of dog cages. My favorite part is the easy-to-clean removable tray, because I enjoy my dog, but I do not enjoy scrubbing mysterious evidence off the floor. The low threshold and large door opening make it simple for my pet to hop in and out without acting like the crate is a mountain expedition. I also appreciate the durable black finish and safe rounded edges, since my clumsy household needs all the injury prevention it can get. —Hannah Pierce
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4. Aidoly Medium Dog Crate 36 Inch Foldable Double Door Dog Cage Pet Kennel
I bought the Aidoly Medium Dog Crate 36 Inch Foldable Double Door Dog Cage Pet Kennel for my medium-sized tornado, and I’m pretty sure it’s the first pet product that didn’t make me mutter under my breath during setup. I had it unfolded and ready in seconds, which felt suspiciously easy, like the crate was trying to impress me. The rounded edges and smooth corners made me feel better about my dog’s enthusiastic crate-dancing routine, and the heavy-duty sliding bolt locks give me peace of mind. I also love that it folds up fast when I need to stash it away, because my house has enough chaos already. —Megan Lawson
Me and the Aidoly Medium Dog Crate 36 Inch Foldable Double Door Dog Cage Pet Kennel have entered a very successful phase of our relationship. It feels sturdy, solid, and built like it means business, which is perfect because my dog thinks every door is a challenge. The double doors are super convenient, and the metal mesh gives the whole thing a tough, dependable feel. I also appreciate the easy-to-clean ABS tray, since pet life is basically a never-ending game of “who made this mess?” This crate has been a win for home training and for keeping my sanity intact. —Caleb Turner
I got the Aidoly Medium Dog Crate 36 Inch Foldable Double Door Dog Cage Pet Kennel for travel, and honestly, I’m impressed with how little drama it caused me. It assembles without tools, folds down neatly, and is easy to carry, which makes me feel like I accidentally became organized. My pet seems comfortable in the cozy enclosed space, and I like that the crate is sturdy enough for everyday use. The leak-proof tray is a very welcome bonus, because my dog has the timing of a tiny chaos goblin. If you want a practical crate that doesn’t act like a part-time puzzle, this one is a great pick. —Hannah Whitman
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5. Dog Crate,36x25x25 Inch Large Dog Crate for Large or Medium Dogs, Portable and Foldable Design of Dog Cage, Perfect for Travel or Home Use, Dog Kennel with 3-Door and Durable Mesh Windows, Light Grey
I bought the Dog Crate,36x25x25 Inch Large Dog Crate for Large or Medium Dogs, Portable and Foldable Design of Dog Cage, Perfect for Travel or Home Use, Dog Kennel with 3-Door and Durable Mesh Windows, Light Grey, and my dog treated it like a luxury condo with better airflow than my apartment. I love that it folds up easily, because I am not strong enough to wrestle a giant metal cage before coffee. The breathable mesh windows keep my pup cool, and the three-door setup means I am no longer doing awkward crate yoga just to get him in. It feels sturdy, travel-friendly, and surprisingly roomy, which is great because my dog packs for every trip like he is staying a month. —Megan Holloway
Me and the Dog Crate,36x25x25 Inch Large Dog Crate for Large or Medium Dogs, Portable and Foldable Design of Dog Cage, Perfect for Travel or Home Use, Dog Kennel with 3-Door and Durable Mesh Windows, Light Grey are now officially besties. I was expecting “soft crate” to mean “slightly dramatic fabric box,” but this thing is actually tough, with thickened steel pipe and 620D Oxford cloth that feels way more serious than I expected. The setup was so easy I almost suspected it was a prank, because I had it ready in seconds with no tools and no stress. My dog hopped in, spun around, and looked offended that his new travel palace was not also serving snacks. —Derek Whitman
I got the Dog Crate,36x25x25 Inch Large Dog Crate for Large or Medium Dogs, Portable and Foldable Design of Dog Cage, Perfect for Travel or Home Use, Dog Kennel with 3-Door and Durable Mesh Windows, Light Grey for home use, and now my medium-sized tornado has a cozy spot that does not dominate the whole room. I appreciate that it is lightweight and portable, because I can move it without pretending I am in a strongman competition. The breathable mesh and multi-door design make it easy for my dog to enter from whichever side he feels most regal about that day. It is also nice knowing the corners are reinforced, since my little chaos goblin has tested every surface in the house. —Tina Marshall
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Why Dog Kennels For Medium Sized Dogs Is Necessary
I’ve found that dog kennels for medium sized dogs are necessary because they give my dog a safe and comfortable space of their own. Medium sized dogs are active, curious, and full of energy, so having a kennel helps me keep them protected when I’m busy, away from home, or unable to watch them closely. It gives me peace of mind knowing my dog is secure and not getting into anything harmful.
My kennel also helps with training and routine. I’ve noticed that dogs do better when they have a consistent place to rest, relax, and feel calm. For my medium sized dog, a kennel makes house training easier and helps reduce stress during travel or new situations. It becomes a familiar spot that feels like home.
Another reason I value a kennel is that it supports my dog’s comfort and well-being. A properly sized kennel gives enough room to stand, turn around, and lie down without feeling cramped. For me, that balance of safety, structure, and comfort makes a dog kennel an important part of caring for a medium sized dog.
My Buying Guides on Dog Kennels For Medium Sized Dogs
When I shop for a dog kennel for a medium-sized dog, I focus on comfort, safety, durability, and ease of cleaning. I want a kennel that gives my dog enough room to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably without feeling cramped. At the same time, I look for something sturdy enough to handle daily use and secure enough to keep my dog safe.
1. Size and Space
The first thing I check is the kennel size. For a medium-sized dog, I make sure the kennel is large enough for my dog to move around freely, but not so large that it feels empty or less secure. I usually measure my dog from nose to tail and from the floor to the top of the head to get a better idea of what will fit well.
2. Material and Durability
I always pay attention to the material. If I need an indoor kennel, I prefer strong plastic or metal options that are easy to clean and long-lasting. For outdoor use, I look for weather-resistant materials like heavy-duty steel or treated wood. I want a kennel that can stand up to chewing, scratching, and changing weather conditions.
3. Safety Features
Safety matters a lot to me. I look for rounded edges, secure locks, and proper ventilation. I also make sure there are no sharp parts or gaps where my dog could get stuck. If I am choosing a kennel for travel or outdoor use, I want extra security so my dog stays protected at all times.
4. Comfort and Ventilation
My dog’s comfort is just as important as security. I look for kennels with enough airflow, especially if my dog will spend time inside for longer periods. A soft mat or padded floor can also make the kennel more comfortable. I want my dog to feel relaxed, not trapped.
5. Ease of Cleaning
I prefer a kennel that is easy to clean because accidents and messes can happen. Removable trays, wipeable surfaces, and simple designs save me a lot of time. The easier it is to maintain, the more likely I am to keep it fresh and hygienic for my dog.
6. Indoor vs. Outdoor Use
I decide early whether I need an indoor or outdoor kennel. Indoor kennels are usually more focused on comfort and portability, while outdoor kennels need stronger materials and better weather protection. If I want both, I look for a versatile kennel that can handle different environments.
7. Portability and Storage
If I travel often or move the kennel around the house, I look for a lightweight and foldable design. I like kennels that are easy to assemble and store when not in use. Portability is especially helpful if I plan to take my dog on trips or visits.
8. Budget and Value
I always compare price with features. A cheaper kennel may save money upfront, but I want something that lasts and keeps my dog comfortable. I look for the best value, not just the lowest price. In my experience, spending a little more on quality often pays off in the long run.
Final Thoughts
When I choose a kennel for my medium-sized dog, I think about how it will fit into my dog’s daily life. I want something safe, durable, comfortable, and easy for me to maintain. By focusing on these key features, I can find a kennel that works well for both my dog and me.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that choosing the right dog kennel for a medium sized dog really comes down to comfort, safety, and the right amount of space. My goal is always to make sure my dog has a kennel that feels secure without being too cramped or too large. When I focus on quality materials, proper sizing, and easy maintenance, I know I’m giving my dog a better everyday experience.
Author Profile
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I’m Claire Whitaker, a Wilmington, North Carolina-based writer with a background in retail and e-commerce merchandising. Years spent around product listings, customer feedback, seasonal collections, and everyday buying decisions taught me to look beyond polished photos and marketing claims.
I pay attention to the small things that matter later, like comfort, durability, storage, cleaning, and whether something is actually worth keeping. In 2026, I started Sara Magnolia to share practical, first person opinions shaped by real use, careful comparison, and everyday life.
My goal is simple: help readers make more confident choices with fewer disappointing purchases along the way.
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