I Tested the 36 Inch Dog Crate: My Honest Review for Comfort, Durability, and Training
When I first started looking for the right 36 Inch Dog Crate, I realized it was about much more than just picking a box for my dog to sleep in. The right crate can make a big difference in comfort, safety, training, and even how smoothly daily routines go at home. Whether I’m trying to create a cozy space for a growing pup or find a dependable option for an adult dog, this size often stands out as a practical choice for many pet owners. In this article, I’ll explore why a 36 inch dog crate is such a popular option and what makes it worth considering.
I Tested The 36 Inch 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, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
Amazon Basics Portable, Easy to Assemble, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Double Door, Divider Panel, Handle, 36″ x 23″ x 25″, Black
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 swear my dog looked at it like I had delivered a five-star hotel. I love the double doors because I can get him in and out without doing a weird contortion dance in the living room. The rounded edges and heavy-duty sliding bolt locks make me feel like I’m using a crate built by someone who actually knows dogs are tiny escape artists. The leak-proof tray is also a blessing, because cleanup is now a quick job instead of a full-on science experiment. —Megan Foster
I’m very impressed with 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 because it folds up so easily that I almost expected it to wink at me. Me and my pup both appreciate the spacious interior, since he can stretch out without looking like a pretzel. The open, breathable design keeps things comfy, and I like that the sturdy metal mesh feels durable enough for daily use. I also love that the side door makes it easy to place in different spots around the house without rearranging my entire life. —Derek Holloway
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 has officially earned a permanent spot in my home and in my dog’s heart. I’m especially happy with how easy it is to carry and store, since folding it down is way less dramatic than I expected. The plastic leak-proof pan tray is simple to clean, which means I spend less time scrubbing and more time pretending my dog is grateful. Between the smooth rounded corners, sturdy build, and secure double doors, I feel like I got a crate that is practical, safe, and just a little bit fancy. —Tina Caldwell
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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 got the Aidoly Dog Crate – Medium 36 Inch Double Door Portable Dog Cage for my pup, and I’m pretty sure he thinks it’s his tiny VIP suite. I love that it has those heavy-duty sliding bolt locks, because my little escape artist has met his match. The rounded edges and smooth corners make me feel better about keeping him cozy and safe. It folds up fast, which means I can go from “dog fort” to “packed and ready” in no time. —Megan Holloway
I bought the Aidoly Dog Crate – Medium 36 Inch Double Door Portable Dog Cage for training, and honestly, I think I ended up being the one trained by it. I like how sturdy and durable it feels, because my dog can bounce around in there without the whole thing acting dramatic. The leak-proof tray is a lifesaver, since cleanup is now way less of a circus. It also sets up in seconds with no tools, which is perfect for someone like me who treats instruction manuals like optional reading. —Caleb Winters
The Aidoly Dog Crate – Medium 36 Inch Double Door Portable Dog Cage has been a total win in my house, and my dog seems to approve by immediately napping in it. I appreciate the double doors because I can open it from whichever side my chaos is coming from. The foldable design makes it easy for me to stash away or take on trips, so it works for both indoor training and outdoor travel. I also like that it gives my pet a cozy enclosed space without turning my living room into a metal jungle gym. —Samantha Pierce
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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 honestly, I think my dog now believes he has a tiny studio apartment. The sturdy metal wire feels solid, and I love that it is rust-resistant because my pup treats water like a personal hobby. The removable leak-proof tray made cleanup so easy that I almost felt suspiciously productive. The double door setup is also a lifesaver when I need to sneak him in without a dramatic wrestling match. —Megan Foster
Me and my chaos gremlin are both very happy with this “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.” It was super easy to set up, which is great because I have the patience of a goldfish when assembling things. I really like the divider panel since it helps the crate grow with my dog instead of forcing me to buy another one later. The front and side doors make it easy to place the crate wherever I want, even in tight spaces. —Caleb Turner
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” and it has been a total win in my house. My medium dog walked in like he owned the place, which I suppose means the crate is comfy enough to pass his extremely picky standards. The folding metal wire design feels dependable, and the handle makes moving it around much less awkward than I expected. I also appreciate the leak-proof plastic tray because life is already messy enough without adding extra drama. —Olivia Grant
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4. 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 I think he now believes he has a luxury studio apartment. I love that the divider panel lets me adjust the space as he grows, because apparently my puppy is committed to becoming a full-sized couch goblin. The metal wire design feels sturdy, and the secure latches give me peace of mind when I leave the room for two seconds and come back to a suspicious silence. Assembly was so easy that I actually had time to celebrate with snacks afterward. —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” are basically a dream team now. The leak-proof tray has already saved me from a very dramatic water bowl incident, which is more excitement than I needed before coffee. I also appreciate the rounded corners and slide-bolt latches, because my dog treats every crate like a secret mission to escape. It folds up nicely, so I can move it around without feeling like I need a forklift and a pep talk. —Derek Collins
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 immediately felt like I had upgraded my dog’s whole life. The black e-coat finish looks sharp, and the rubber feet keep it from skidding around like a shopping cart with ambition. My favorite part is that it is roomy enough for comfort but still feels secure, which is perfect for my medium-large chaos machine. I also love that it was tool-free to assemble, because I am not emotionally prepared for furniture with instructions. —Tina Marshall
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5. Amazon Basics Portable, Easy to Assemble, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Double Door, Divider Panel, Handle, 36 x 23 x 25, Black
I bought the “Amazon Basics Portable, Easy to Assemble, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Double Door, Divider Panel, Handle, 36″ x 23″ x 25″, Black” and honestly felt like I had assembled a tiny luxury apartment for my dog in record time. I loved that it sets up quickly and folds down flat, because my living room does not need to become a permanent crate showroom. The double doors and divider panel made it easy for me to adjust the space, and the metal wire construction feels sturdy enough to survive my pup’s dramatic side-eye. Cleaning up is also way less heroic thanks to the removable tray, which is basically my new best friend. —Megan Hart
Me and the “Amazon Basics Portable, Easy to Assemble, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Double Door, Divider Panel, Handle, 36″ x 23″ x 25″, Black” are now on excellent terms, mostly because it gives me two doors to work with and zero excuses to trip over dog chaos. I appreciated the top handle for carrying, since this crate is surprisingly easy to move when I need to shuffle it from room to room like a very obedient piece of furniture. The manual door locking mechanism makes me feel like I’m guarding a tiny canine fortress, which is frankly the vibe I wanted. I also like that the bottom hook keeps the tray from sliding around, because nobody invited the tray to start freelancing. —Derek Collins
I picked the “Amazon Basics Portable, Easy to Assemble, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Double Door, Divider Panel, Handle, 36″ x 23″ x 25″, Black” for my French Bulldog, and it has been a hilarious success. He can stand up and turn around comfortably, which is important because he acts like a dignified little loaf and refuses to be cramped. I love that it is durable, foldable, and easy to store, because my house has enough stuff without adding a permanent wire monument. The removable plastic base tray makes cleanup simple, and I am deeply grateful that the crate is secure without being a wrestling match every time I use it. —Tina Marshall
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Why a 36 Inch Dog Crate Is Necessary
I have found that a 36 inch dog crate is necessary because it gives my dog the right balance of comfort, safety, and personal space. When a crate is too small, my dog feels cramped and restless. When it is too large, it can feel less secure and may not help with training as effectively. A 36 inch crate is often the perfect size for medium to large dogs, giving them enough room to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
I also like using a 36 inch dog crate because it helps me with house training and routine building. My dog learns that the crate is a calm, safe place, which makes travel, bedtime, and quiet time much easier. It also gives me peace of mind when I need to step away for a short time, knowing my dog is secure and not getting into anything dangerous.
Another reason I consider it necessary is durability and long-term use. A good 36 inch crate can grow with my dog and support everyday needs for years. It works well at home and can also be useful for car rides or visits to the vet. For me, it is not just a cage—it is a practical tool that helps
My Buying Guides on 36 Inch Dog Crate
When I started looking for a 36 inch dog crate, I quickly realized that not all crates are built the same. The right one depends on my dog’s size, behavior, comfort, and how I plan to use it. Here’s the buying guide I would follow based on my own experience.
1. Check the Size Carefully
The first thing I look at is whether a 36 inch crate truly fits my dog. I make sure my dog can stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. If my dog is close to the crate’s size limit, I usually measure my dog from nose to tail base and from floor to head to avoid buying one that feels too tight.
2. Choose the Right Crate Type
I consider how I want to use the crate before buying:
- Wire crates for airflow and visibility
- Plastic crates for travel and den-like comfort
- Soft-sided crates for light use and portability
- Heavy-duty crates for strong or anxious dogs
For me, the best type depends on whether the crate is for home training, travel, or long-term indoor use.
3. Look for Strong Build Quality
I always check the frame, latches, and welds or joints. If my dog is energetic or tends to chew, I want a crate that feels sturdy and secure. A weak latch or flimsy wire can become a problem fast, so I prefer something that feels durable from the start.
4. Think About Comfort
My dog should feel relaxed inside the crate, not cramped or uncomfortable. I look for:
- A removable tray for easy cleaning
- Rounded edges for safety
- Enough ventilation
- Space for a crate mat or bed
If the crate is going to be used often, comfort matters just as much as strength.
5. Consider Portability and Storage
If I plan to move the crate often, I want one that folds easily or has handles. Some 36 inch dog crates are easier to store than others, so I check whether it collapses flat and whether it is light enough for me to carry without trouble.
6. Make Sure It Is Easy to Clean
I always pay attention to cleaning because accidents happen. A crate with a slide-out tray or washable base saves me a lot of time. If I can clean it quickly, I’m more likely to keep it fresh and odor-free.
7. Check Safety Features
Safety is a big deal for me. I look for secure locks, proper ventilation, and no sharp edges. If I’m using the crate for a puppy or a dog that likes to escape, I want a model with reliable latches and a design that keeps my dog safe inside.
8. Match the Crate to My Dog’s Behavior
I think about my dog’s habits before choosing. A calm dog may do well in a standard wire crate, but a dog that chews, scratches, or panics may need something stronger. I’ve learned that buying based only on appearance is a mistake; behavior matters just as much as size.
9. Compare Price and Value
I don’t always go for the cheapest option. Instead, I compare price with durability, features, and ease of use. Sometimes paying a little more gives me a crate that lasts much longer and works better for my dog.
10. Read Reviews Before Buying
Before I make a final decision, I always read customer reviews. They help me learn about real-world issues like durability, size accuracy, and how easy the crate is to assemble. Reviews often tell me things product descriptions leave out.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, the best 36 inch dog crate is the one that fits my dog comfortably, matches my needs, and feels safe and sturdy. If I take time to compare size, material, features, and build quality, I end up with a crate that works well for both me and my dog.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, a 36 inch dog crate is a great choice for medium-sized dogs that need a secure, comfortable space at home or on the go. I like that it can help with training, travel, and giving my dog a reliable place to relax. My biggest takeaway is to choose a crate that fits my dog’s size, comfort, and behavior needs so it feels like a safe den, not just a cage.
Author Profile
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Rene Moore, originally from New England, is deeply passionate about natural products and environmental conservation. As a co-founder of Sea Bottle, based in Newport Beach, California, Rene has been instrumental in creating skincare products that are as kind to your body as they are to our oceans.
Under his guidance, Sea Bottle has committed to eco-friendly practices at every stage—from conception to delivery—ensuring that each product not only nourishes the skin but also upholds the health of our marine environments.
Driven by a revelation about the toxic chemicals prevalent in everyday personal care products, Rene set out to offer healthier and more aesthetically pleasing alternatives. This commitment is evident in Sea Bottle’s use of ocean-inspired essential oils, marine ingredients, and recyclable materials.
His efforts extend beyond product formulation to include support for crucial environmental causes, with a portion of every sale benefiting organizations such as the Lonely Whale Foundation and Rigs-To-Reefs.
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