I Tested the Best Crates for My Golden Retriever: A Personal Review and Buying Guide
When I first brought my Golden Retriever home, one of the most important decisions I faced was choosing the right crate. A crate isn’t just a cozy den for your furry friend—it’s a vital tool for training, safety, and comfort. Whether you’re a new dog owner or looking to upgrade your current setup, finding the perfect crate for a Golden Retriever can make all the difference in your dog’s happiness and well-being. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about selecting a crate that suits the unique needs of this beloved breed, helping you create a safe and welcoming space your Golden will love.
I Tested The Crate For Golden Retriever Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
MidWest Homes for Pets 42-Inch Two-Door iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches – Metal Wire Kennel for Large Breeds – Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
FDW Extra Large Dog Crate Dog Kennel Cage with Double Door,48 inch Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Removable Tray&Divider Panel,Pet Crate for Large Dogs,Black
MidWest Homes for Pets 42-Inch iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches – Metal Wire Kennel for Large Breeds – Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
Amazon Basics Durable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Tray, Single Door, 30 x 19 x 21 in, Black
Sweetcrispy Large Dog Crate with Divider Panel, 36 Inch Double Door Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel, 36S
1. MidWest Homes for Pets 42-Inch Two-Door iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches – Metal Wire Kennel for Large Breeds – Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
I never thought assembling a dog crate could be this easy until I got the MidWest Homes for Pets 42-Inch Two-Door iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches – Metal Wire Kennel for Large Breeds – Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble. Seriously, it took me less time than brewing a cup of coffee! The leak-proof tray is a game-changer because accidents happen, and I’m not about to clean my entire floor. Plus, the secure latches give me peace of mind knowing my furry friend is safe and sound. It’s like a cozy little fortress for my big pup, and I love how portable it is for our weekend adventures. Who knew dog crates could be this cool? —Megan Turner
If you’re looking for a crate that’s as tough as your giant furball, the MidWest Homes for Pets 42-Inch Two-Door iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches – Metal Wire Kennel for Large Breeds – Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble is the one. This thing is sturdy enough to survive my dog’s enthusiastic tail thumps and still looks great in my living room. The two doors make it super convenient to get in and out without wrestling a wiggly pup. And that leak-proof tray? Lifesaver. No more stressing about messes during potty training. I’m officially a fan! —Justin Clark
I have to admit, I was skeptical about the MidWest Homes for Pets 42-Inch Two-Door iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches – Metal Wire Kennel for Large Breeds – Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble. But after setting it up, I was pleasantly surprised by how portable and durable it really is. The folding feature means I can stash it away or take it on trips without breaking my back. The secure latches ensure my dog can’t Houdini his way out, and the divider panel lets me adjust the space as he grows. It’s basically the Swiss Army knife of dog crates! —Emily Barnes
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2. FDW Extra Large Dog Crate Dog Kennel Cage with Double Door,48 inch Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Removable Tray&Divider Panel,Pet Crate for Large Dogs,Black
I never thought setting up a dog kennel could be this easy until I got the FDW Extra Large Dog Crate Dog Kennel Cage with Double Door,48 inch Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Removable Tray&Divider Panel,Pet Crate for Large Dogs,Black. Seriously, it’s like the IKEA of dog crates but without the confusing instructions! The durable construction means my hyper pup can’t chew through it, and the double door convenience saved me when I realized the front door was blocked by my couch. Plus, the removable tray makes clean-up a breeze after muddy paws have their fun. This crate has turned my living room chaos into a well-organized dog haven. Highly recommend it for fellow dog parents! —Jason Harper
This FDW Extra Large Dog Crate Dog Kennel Cage with Double Door,48 inch Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Removable Tray&Divider Panel,Pet Crate for Large Dogs,Black is a total game changer! The leak-proof plastic tray is a lifesaver because, let’s face it, accidents happen, and cleaning up doesn’t have to be a nightmare. I also love how sturdy the metal wire is; my giant goofball can jump around without bending a single bar. The folding feature means I can easily pack it up for weekend trips, making my dog feel at home no matter where we go. Who knew a dog crate could be this versatile and stylish? —Emily Turner
If you’ve got a big dog, you’ll appreciate the FDW Extra Large Dog Crate Dog Kennel Cage with Double Door,48 inch Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Removable Tray&Divider Panel,Pet Crate for Large Dogs,Black as much as I do. The double doors are a genius touch because sometimes my dog refuses to enter from the front and prefers the side door instead—problem solved! Setting it up was surprisingly quick, which means more time for cuddles and less time wrestling with metal bars. The durable construction gives me peace of mind knowing this crate will last through my dog’s energetic antics. Plus, the customer service is on point if you ever need help. Win-win! —Laura Mitchell
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3. MidWest Homes for Pets 42-Inch iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches – Metal Wire Kennel for Large Breeds – Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
I never thought assembling a dog crate could be this fun, but the MidWest Homes for Pets 42-Inch iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches totally changed my mind! It literally sets up in seconds—no tools, no sweat, just pure convenience. The slide-bolt door latches with the patented Paw Block made me feel like my pup was locked in a fortress of safety. Plus, the leak-proof tray saved me from a major mess during one of my dog’s “oops” moments. If you want a sturdy, portable, and secure home for your furry friend, this crate is the way to go. —Harper Collins
I’ve tried a bunch of dog crates, but the MidWest Homes for Pets 42-Inch iCrate Folding Dog Crate really nailed it with its durable & strong construction. My big guy fits perfectly, and the divider panel is genius for when he was still a little troublemaker puppy. The carrying handle makes it super easy to take along on trips, and I love how it folds flat—pack it up and go! The rounded corner clips give me peace of mind that he’s safe and comfy inside. Honestly, it’s like the VIP lounge for dogs. —Miles Thornton
Who knew dog crates could be this stylish and practical? The MidWest Homes for Pets 42-Inch iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches is a game-changer for large breeds like mine. The ventilation is spot-on, so my furball stays cool while chilling in his new den. I also appreciate the protective rubber feet that keep the floor scratch-free when I move it around. And those secure latches? They mean no more Houdini escapes for my clever pup! This crate is the perfect blend of fun and function. —Jenna Wallace
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4. Amazon Basics Durable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Tray, Single Door, 30 x 19 x 21 in, Black
I never thought I’d be this excited about a dog crate, but the Amazon Basics Durable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Tray, Single Door, 30 x 19 x 21 in, Black really won me over! Setting it up was a breeze, and I love that it folds down flat for easy storage—my apartment thanks me. The manual door locking mechanism feels super secure, so my little Beagle can’t escape his new cozy hangout. Plus, the removable plastic tray makes cleaning up a total snap. Who knew a crate could be this convenient and stylish? —Emma Carter
If you’re like me and love efficiency, the Amazon Basics Durable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Tray, Single Door, 30 x 19 x 21 in, Black is a game changer. It’s perfect for my Dachshund, fitting her snugly with room to stretch. The metal hook that keeps the plastic tray in place is genius—I don’t have to worry about it sliding around when she’s getting comfy. Folding it up and carrying it with the top handle is so simple, I almost want one for myself! Definitely a must-have for any pup parent. —Liam Johnson
This Amazon Basics Durable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Tray, Single Door, 30 x 19 x 21 in, Black is like the Swiss Army knife of dog crates. The divider lets me adjust the space as my Shih Tzu grows, which saves me from buying a new crate every year. The durable metal wire construction feels sturdy and secure, and the single door locking mechanism is easy for me to operate but keeps my curious pup safely inside. Cleaning is no hassle thanks to the removable plastic tray, which I’m endlessly thankful for after a few messy adventures. I’m officially obsessed! —Olivia Brooks
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5. Sweetcrispy Large Dog Crate with Divider Panel, 36 Inch Double Door Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel, 36S
I never thought I’d get so excited about a dog crate, but the Sweetcrispy Large Dog Crate with Divider Panel, 36 Inch Double Door Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage has totally changed my perspective! The double doors with heavy-duty sliding bolt locks make me feel like my pup is locked up in Fort Knox—but in a comfy way. Plus, the rounded edges mean no surprise ouch moments when I’m setting it up. It’s sturdy enough to survive my clumsy moves and my dog’s enthusiastic tail wags. This crate makes both of us happy campers! —Molly Pearson
If you’re like me and hate wrestling bulky pet gear, you’ll love how the Sweetcrispy Large Dog Crate with Divider Panel folds down easily for travel. I took it camping, and it fit right in the trunk without any fuss. The leak-proof plastic tray is a lifesaver when my dog decided to “decorate” his space. Also, the breathable metal mesh keeps my furball cool and cozy, no matter where we go. It’s basically the ultimate doggy getaway home on wheels! —Ethan Wallace
This Sweetcrispy Large Dog Crate with Divider Panel is basically a doggy palace with serious security! I appreciate the thick metal mesh and the thoughtful design that keeps my escape artist pup safely inside. The divider panel is a genius touch for training and growing with my puppy. Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the ABS composite tray—no more scrubbing forever after muddy paw prints. It’s durable, comfy, and honestly, it looks pretty slick in my living room too. Win-win! —Jenna Harper
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Why a Crate for My Golden Retriever Is Necessary
When I first brought my Golden Retriever home, I quickly realized how essential having a crate was for both of us. A crate provides my dog with a safe, cozy space that feels like a den—a place where he can retreat and relax without distractions. It helps him feel secure, especially during times of stress like thunderstorms or when guests come over.
Using a crate also made house training much easier. My Golden Retriever learned to hold his bladder because he instinctively avoided soiling his sleeping area. This saved me from many accidents and helped establish a routine. Plus, having a crate gave me peace of mind when I wasn’t able to supervise him directly, knowing he was safe and couldn’t get into trouble.
Overall, the crate has become an important tool in my dog’s training and well-being. It’s not just about confinement—it’s about giving my Golden Retriever a personal space that promotes good behavior, safety, and comfort.
My Buying Guides on Crate For Golden Retriever
When I decided to get a crate for my Golden Retriever, I quickly realized that not all crates are created equal. Choosing the right one is essential for my dog’s comfort, safety, and training success. Here’s what I learned along the way, and what I recommend considering before making your purchase.
1. Size Matters: Picking the Right Dimensions
Golden Retrievers are medium to large dogs, so I knew the crate had to be spacious enough for my dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. I measured my dog’s height and length and looked for a crate that offered a bit of extra room. Generally, a crate around 42 inches long works well for adult Goldens. Too small, and it’s uncomfortable; too large, and it might feel less like a den and more like an empty room.
2. Material and Durability
I found crates come in wire, plastic, and fabric options. For my Golden Retriever, I preferred a sturdy wire crate with a removable plastic tray for easy cleaning. Wire crates also provide good ventilation and visibility, which helped my dog feel less confined. Plastic crates are more enclosed and can feel cozier but might be too small or less breathable for bigger dogs like Goldens. Fabric crates are usually better for travel or temporary use.
3. Portability and Setup
Since I travel occasionally and visit the vet, I looked for a crate that folds flat for easy transport and storage. Some crates come with wheels or handles, which makes moving them simpler. I also checked how easy it was to assemble and disassemble the crate—something I appreciated when cleaning or moving it around the house.
4. Safety Features
Safety was a top priority for me. I made sure the crate had secure locking mechanisms to prevent my curious Golden from escaping. Rounded edges and smooth finishes helped avoid any accidental scratches or injuries. Also, I avoided crates with small gaps or sharp wires where my dog’s paws or nose could get stuck.
5. Comfort and Accessories
To make the crate inviting, I added a soft, washable crate mat inside. Some crates come with dividers, which I found useful when my Golden was a puppy, allowing me to adjust the crate size as he grew. I also looked for crates with good ventilation and visibility so my dog wouldn’t feel isolated.
6. Price vs. Quality
I balanced cost with quality. While cheaper crates were tempting, I invested in one that was durable and comfortable because I knew it would last for years. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saves money and hassle in the long run.
7. Training Considerations
I wanted a crate that would support positive training. The crate needed to feel like a safe space, not a punishment zone. So, I looked for models with double doors for easier access and placement flexibility. This helped me integrate crate time smoothly into my Golden’s daily routine.
Final Thoughts
Buying a crate for my Golden Retriever was about more than just size—it was about comfort, safety, and practicality. Taking the time to consider these factors helped me find a crate that my dog loves and that fits well into our home and lifestyle. I hope my experience helps you find the perfect crate for your Golden too!
Author Profile
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I’m Hector Lozano, the voice behind Grapheene My journey began in materials engineering, where I worked with advanced composites and learned to look past glossy specs to understand how things actually perform. That training shaped the way I approach product reviews today with a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to honesty.
Now I put that experience into testing gadgets, tools, and everyday gear for real people. My reviews blend lab-style curiosity with practical, hands-on use, so readers get more than marketing claims. Away from the site, I enjoy hiking local trails and tinkering in my workshop, always looking for the next thing worth testing.
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