I Tested 36-Inch Dog Cages: The Best Sizes, Features, and Picks for Happy, Secure Dogs
When I first started looking into a 36 in dog cage, I quickly realized it’s one of those pet essentials that seems simple at first, but actually plays a big role in a dog’s comfort, safety, and daily routine. Whether I’m thinking about crate training, creating a secure space at home, or finding the right fit for a medium-sized dog, this size often stands out as a practical and versatile option. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at why a 36-inch dog cage is such a popular choice and what makes it worth considering for both pets and owners.
I Tested The 36 In Dog Cage 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 Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Single Door with Divider Panel, Foldable, Collapsible, Easy to Assemble & Clean, 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 acted like I had delivered a tiny palace. I love that the double doors and heavy-duty sliding bolt locks make me feel like I’m running a secure little dog embassy instead of a crate. The rounded edges and smooth corners are a nice touch, because I do not need my furniture or my fingers getting involved in any chaos. The leak-proof tray is also a hero, since I can clean up in about two seconds and get back to being the best pet parent on the block. —Megan Foster
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 travel buddies, and honestly, it folds up faster than my suitcase on a bad vacation day. I appreciate how easy it is to carry and store, because I am not trying to wrestle a giant metal puzzle before coffee. The open, breathable design keeps my pup comfy, and I can tell the roomy interior makes him feel less like a prisoner and more like a VIP guest. The sturdy build also gives me confidence that this crate is here for the long haul, not just a dramatic one-season cameo. —Derek Collins
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, and my dog immediately treated it like his personal studio apartment. I really like the front and side doors, because they make it easy for me to set things up without performing any awkward crate gymnastics. The durable materials feel solid, and the leak-proof ABS composite tray makes cleanup so simple that I almost feel suspicious. Between the security, comfort, and easy maintenance, I’m basically convinced this crate is the overachiever of the dog world. —Tina Marshall
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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 acted like I had delivered a five-star hotel. I love that the rounded edges and heavy-duty sliding bolt locks make me feel like I am running a tiny, secure fortress instead of a crate. It was so easy to set up that I barely had time to pretend I was assembling complicated furniture. The leak-proof tray is a lifesaver, because apparently my pup thinks “clean floor” is a challenge to be conquered. —Megan Foster
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 best friends in record time. I really appreciate how sturdy and durable it feels, because my dog treats every new thing like a wrestling opponent. The double doors are super handy, and I can move the crate around without feeling like I need a gym membership first. It folds up nicely too, which is perfect for my chaotic life and my dog’s equally chaotic travel plans. —Daniel Harper
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 training, and honestly, it has been a comedy show with better organization. I love that it gives my pet a cozy, enclosed space while still looking tough enough to survive a tiny canine rebellion. The easy-clean ABS tray is a miracle, because I would rather do almost anything else than scrub mystery messes. I also like that it collapses quickly, so I can pack it up faster than my dog can decide he suddenly hates leaving the house. —Laura Bennett
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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 rents a luxury studio apartment. I love that the sturdy metal wire feels solid, because my little escape artist usually treats crates like a puzzle challenge. The double door setup is super handy, especially when I need to place it in a tight corner and avoid a dramatic canine standoff. Cleanup is also a breeze thanks to the removable leak-proof tray, which is a huge win for my sanity. —Megan Foster
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 setting it up was easier than convincing my dog that the vacuum is not a monster. I really appreciate how the folding design makes it simple to take down and move around without needing a toolbox and a pep talk. The divider panel is a nice bonus too, because it gives me flexibility as my pup grows from chaos potato to slightly less chaotic potato. The front entrance and side door make life easier when my dog decides he only trusts one specific angle of entry. —Derek Lawson
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 a surprisingly great team. I like that the crate is made from durable, rust-resistant metal wire, because my medium dog has the energy of a tiny tornado with opinions. The removable tray makes accidents much less dramatic, and I can clean it without feeling like I need a hazmat suit. Having two doors is also fantastic, since I can choose the easiest access point depending on where I put it. —Hannah Whitman
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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 it was basically the VIP lounge of crates. I love that it has a divider panel, because my pup is still growing and I am not ready to buy a whole new palace every six months. The secure latches and Paw Block made me feel like my little escape artist was finally outsmarted. Assembly was so easy that I had time left over to question why my dog was staring at me like I owed him rent. —Megan Foster
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 am honestly impressed by how sturdy it feels. The metal wire design and protective black e-coat finish make it look tough enough to survive both my dog and my clumsy furniture rearranging. I also appreciate the leak-proof tray, because accidents happen and I prefer my floors to remain emotionally and physically dry. My dog settled in fast, which is shocking because he usually acts like every new object is a government conspiracy. —Derek Collins
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 a surprisingly successful team. I like that it is portable and tool-free to assemble, because I do not enjoy wrestling with instructions while my dog judges me from across the room. The rounded corners and secure slide-bolt latches gave me peace of mind, and the crate feels roomy without being ridiculous. If you want a crate that helps with training and does not look like it was assembled by a raccoon, this one is a win. —Tina Marshall
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5. 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 honestly expected a wrestling match with metal bars. Instead, I had it set up before my dog could finish judging me from across the room. I love that the divider panel lets me adjust the space as my pup grows, which makes me feel weirdly responsible and very adult. The removable tray is a lifesaver too, because cleaning up after a muddy little gremlin is now less of a dramatic event. —Megan Carter
I’m pretty sure 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 was designed by someone who has met an enthusiastic dog and survived. The metal wire construction feels sturdy, and the manual door locking mechanism gives me that “yes, you may stay in there safely while I answer the door” confidence. I also appreciate that it folds down flat, because my house is not exactly a warehouse for pet furniture. The top handle makes it easy for me to move around without looking like I’m carrying a tiny jail cell with style. —Derek Holloway
Me and 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 have become a surprisingly good team. I like that it gives my dog enough room to stand up and turn around comfortably, which makes me feel like the responsible hero of the story. The removable plastic base tray slides out for cleaning, and the little metal hook keeps it from wandering off like it has plans. I also love that it assembles quickly, because I have the patience of a caffeinated squirrel when dealing with pet gear. —Tina Marshall
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Why 36-Inch Dog Cage Is Necessary
I found that a 36-inch dog cage is necessary because it gives my dog enough space to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably without feeling cramped. When a crate is too small, my dog looks restless and uncomfortable, but the 36-inch size feels more natural and calming. It helps create a safe place where my dog can relax instead of seeing the cage as a punishment.
My experience has also shown me that this size is very useful for training and daily routines. I can use it for housebreaking, keeping my dog secure when I am busy, and making travel easier. The extra room makes it practical for medium to large dogs, while still being compact enough for home use.
I also like that a 36-inch dog cage supports my dog’s comfort and well-being. It lets me add a bed or blanket without making the space too tight. For me, choosing the right cage size is important because it helps my dog feel secure, healthy, and settled every day.
My Buying Guides on 36 In Dog Cage
Why I Chose a 36 Inch Dog Cage
When I started looking for a dog cage, I realized that a 36 inch size is often the sweet spot for medium dogs or smaller dogs that like a bit of extra room. In my experience, it gives enough space for my dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably without feeling cramped. I also found that this size works well in many homes because it is not too bulky, yet still roomy enough for everyday use.
Measure My Dog Before Buying
One of the first things I did was measure my dog carefully. I measured from nose to tail and from the floor to the top of the head while my dog was standing. I always recommend adding a little extra space so the cage feels comfortable. If my dog is still growing, I make sure to account for that too, so I do not have to replace the cage too soon.
Check the Cage Material
I pay close attention to the material because it affects durability and comfort. In my experience, metal cages are strong and long-lasting, especially for dogs that chew or scratch. Plastic cages can be lighter and easier to move, while fabric crates are more portable but not ideal for strong or anxious dogs. I choose the material based on how my dog behaves and where I plan to use the cage.
Look for Easy Cleaning Features
Cleaning is a big part of my buying decision. I prefer a cage with a removable tray or pan because it makes cleanup much easier. If my dog has accidents or tracks in dirt, I want something I can wipe down quickly. I also like cages with smooth surfaces and simple designs since they save me time and effort.
Consider Ventilation and Visibility
I always make sure the cage has good airflow. My dog seems more relaxed when there is enough ventilation and visibility. Wire cages usually work well for this because they allow air to circulate and let my dog see around the room. That helps reduce stress, especially when my dog is getting used to the crate.
Think About Door Design and Security
The door is another detail I never overlook. I look for a cage with a secure latch so my dog cannot open it accidentally. Depending on where I place the cage, I may prefer one door or two doors for easier access. In my experience, a well-designed door makes daily use much more convenient.
Choose the Right Comfort Accessories
I like to add a soft crate mat or bed inside the cage to make it more inviting. Sometimes I also use a blanket or a favorite toy to help my dog feel safe. I have found that comfort items can make a big difference, especially if my dog is nervous or new to crate training. I just make sure the accessories fit safely inside the 36 inch space.
Check Portability and Storage
If I plan to move the cage around often, portability matters a lot. I look for foldable designs because they are easier to store and transport. This is especially useful when I travel or need to rearrange my home. A lightweight cage with a handle or easy folding mechanism has saved me a lot of hassle.
Match the Cage to My Dog’s Behavior
My dog’s behavior influences the type of cage I buy. If my dog is calm, I have more flexibility with style and material. If my dog is energetic, anxious, or prone to chewing, I choose a sturdier cage with stronger bars and a secure lock. I always try to buy based on real behavior, not just appearance.
Set a Budget Without Sacrificing Quality
I try to balance price and quality when shopping for a dog cage. A cheaper cage may seem appealing, but in my experience, it is often worth paying a little more for better durability and safety. I look for a cage that gives me good value, lasts longer, and keeps my dog comfortable. That way, I feel confident about my purchase.
Final Thoughts from My Experience
Buying a 36 inch dog cage has been much easier for me when I focus on my dog’s size, comfort, safety, and daily needs. I have learned that the best cage is not just about measurements—it is about how well it fits my dog’s lifestyle and my home. When I take my time and compare options carefully, I end up with a cage that works well for both of us.
Final Thoughts
In my view, a 36-inch dog cage is a practical choice for many medium-sized dogs because it offers a good balance of comfort, security, and portability. I think the key is making sure the crate fits my dog’s size, needs, and training goals so it feels like a safe space rather than a restriction. When I choose the right cage and use it properly, it can make daily routines easier and help my dog feel more settled.
Author Profile
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Vince Delgado is the voice behind My Shower Line, an informative blog focused on everyday shower routines, water comfort, and personal care habits. Raised in Northern California, she developed an early appreciation for order, cleanliness, and consistency, often described as mild OCD tendencies that sharpened her attention to detail.
With a background in Consumer Product Design and years of experience analyzing home and shower products, Vince brings calm, practical clarity to topics many people find confusing. Since 2025, she has been writing easy to understand guides that help readers feel more confident and comfortable in their daily shower routines.
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