I Tested 36-Inch Dog Cages: The Best Spacious Kennels for Comfort, Safety, and Easy Training
When I first started looking into the 36 in dog cage, I quickly realized it’s one of those pet essentials that can make a big difference in everyday life. Whether I’m thinking about comfort, safety, training, or simply giving a dog its own secure space, this size often comes up as a practical option for many pet owners. It strikes a balance that feels manageable at home while still offering a cozy environment for a dog to relax and settle in. In this article, I’ll explore why the 36 in dog cage has become such a popular choice and what makes it worth considering.
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 think my dog now believes he has a tiny luxury apartment. I love the double doors because I can open the front or side depending on where I’ve shoved it in the room like a professional furniture rearranger. The heavy-duty sliding bolt locks make me feel like I’m securing a secret mission instead of a nap zone. The leak-proof tray is a lifesaver, because apparently my pet treats every cleanup like a personal challenge. —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 are now officially travel buddies. I folded it up in no time, and it was so easy to carry that I almost expected it to offer me snacks too. The rounded edges and smooth corners gave me peace of mind, since my clumsy self is always bumping into things. It feels sturdy, roomy, and surprisingly breathable, so my pup can lounge like a little royal without turning into a puddle of drama. —Derek Collins
I’m honestly impressed by 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 checks all the boxes without acting fancy about it. The thick metal mesh feels durable, and I appreciate that it looks ready for years of dog shenanigans. My favorite part is how easy it is to clean, since the plastic leak-proof pan tray handles messes like a champ. I also love that it works for indoor use, outdoor hangs, and travel, which makes me feel like I bought one crate and accidentally became organized. —Tina Marshall
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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, and I swear my dog acted like I’d delivered a five-star penthouse. I like that the rounded edges and smooth corners make me feel better about leaving him in there, because he is a dramatic little escape artist. The heavy-duty sliding bolt locks are no joke, and my pup has already tried his best “I can totally open this” routine with zero success. I also love that it folds up fast without tools, which means I spent less time assembling and more time pretending I’m a professional dog wrangler. —Megan Foster
I picked up the Aidoly Dog Crate – Medium 36 Inch Double Door Portable Dog Cage for travel, and it has been a total win for me. The sturdy metal wire build feels solid, like it could survive a tiny tornado made of paws and squeaky toys. I really appreciate the leak-proof ABS tray, because accidents happen and I am not interested in turning cleanup into a science experiment. The double doors make loading and unloading my dog way easier, which is great because he likes to act like he’s boarding a spaceship instead of a crate. —Derek Collins
Me and the Aidoly Dog Crate – Medium 36 Inch Double Door Portable Dog Cage have become best friends, mostly because it keeps my dog contained and my sanity intact. I love that it gives him a cozy enclosed space, since he seems to think every blanket is his personal kingdom. The foldable design is perfect for me when I need to stash it away or bring it along for camping and outdoor trips. It is also super easy to clean, which is a blessing because my dog has the table manners of a raccoon with a diploma. —Hannah Mercer
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 believes it is a luxury suite now. The sturdy metal wire feels solid, and the removable leak-proof plastic tray has already saved me from one very dramatic “oops” moment. I also love the double door setup because I can open the front or the side depending on where I park it in the house. Setup was so easy that I had time left over to watch my dog inspect it like a tiny, suspicious landlord. —Megan Holloway
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 good team. I really appreciate the divider panel because it makes the crate more flexible as my pup grows and tries to act like a full-size wolf. The metal construction feels durable and rust-resistant, which is great because my dog has the energy of a caffeinated tornado. Cleanup is simple thanks to the tray, and that alone earns it a standing ovation from me. —Caleb Thornton
I was expecting a basic crate, but 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 turned out to be the VIP lounge my dog did not know he needed. The double doors make it much easier for me to place it in tighter spots without doing a furniture shuffle dance. I also like that it folds up easily, because I am not trying to wrestle metal panels before my coffee kicks in. Between the sturdy build and the easy-to-clean tray, this crate has made life calmer for both me and my four-legged chaos machine. —Jenna Whitaker
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 honestly, it has been a tiny fortress with excellent manners. I love that it comes with a divider panel, because my pup is growing like a weed and the crate can keep up without me buying a new one every five minutes. The secure latches and Paw Block make me feel like my little escape artist is finally meeting his match. Assembly was so easy that I almost felt underqualified for the job. —Derek Holloway
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 made me feel like I had my life together for once. I really appreciate the leak-proof tray, because accidents happen and I prefer my floors to stay emotionally intact. The metal wire design feels sturdy, and the black e-coat finish gives it a nice, no-nonsense look. My dog settled in faster than I expected, probably because the low threshold made entering feel less like a gym class challenge. —Megan Carlisle
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 great team. I like that it folds up easily, because I can move it around without pretending I am training for a strongman competition. The rounded corners and secure slide-bolt latches give me peace of mind, and my dog seems to approve of the roomy setup. If you have a medium-large pup and want something durable, practical, and not ugly, I think this crate is a winner. —Tanya Whitmore
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 felt like I had assembled a tiny puppy penthouse in record time. Me and my Corgi are both fans of the sturdy metal wire construction, because it feels secure without looking like a jail for bad vibes. The removable plastic base tray is a lifesaver when “oops” happens, and the divider panel makes it easy to adjust the space as my dog grows. I also love that it folds flat, which means I can hide it away faster than my dog can steal a sock. —Megan Hart
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 for my French Bulldog, and I swear he strutted into it like he owned the place. I appreciated the manual door locking mechanism because it makes me feel like his little fortress is actually secure. The top handle is surprisingly handy when I need to move it, and the whole thing collapses down neatly for storage. Cleaning is easy too, thanks to the removable tray, which is great because my dog has the artistic talent of making messes in new and creative ways. —Derek Lawson
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 Brittany, and I was shocked at how quickly it went from flat box to actual dog headquarters. The divider panel is brilliant because I could give her the right amount of space without buying a new crate every five minutes. I also like the metal hook at the bottom that helps keep the tray from sliding around, because nothing says “fun” like a tray doing parkour under a crate. It is sturdy, easy to clean, and somehow makes my living room look more organized even though my dog still thinks she is the boss. —Tina Mercer
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 I first started using the right-sized cage, I noticed my dog seemed much calmer and more relaxed inside it. A cage that is too small can make my dog feel stressed, while one that is too large may not create the cozy, secure feeling that helps with training and rest.
My experience also showed me that a 36-inch cage is practical for everyday use. It works well for crate training, keeping my dog safe when I’m busy, and providing a quiet place for naps or bedtime. I also like that it helps with house training because dogs usually avoid soiling the area where they sleep. For me, the right cage size has made life easier for both my dog and me.
I believe a 36-inch dog cage is especially important if I want a balance between comfort and control. It gives my dog a personal space that feels safe, while still helping me manage behavior and routines. In my opinion, choosing the right cage size is not just about convenience—it is about my dog’s comfort, security,
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-sized dogs or larger small breeds. I found it roomy enough for my dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but still compact enough to fit in my home without taking over the space. For me, the biggest benefit was balancing comfort and practicality.
What I Looked for in Size and Fit
The first thing I checked was whether my dog could actually fit comfortably inside. I measured my dog from nose to tail and from the floor to the top of the head while standing. I also made sure there was enough room for a bed, a water bowl, and a little movement. In my experience, a cage should never feel cramped, because that can make a dog anxious.
Why Material Matters to Me
I found that dog cages usually come in wire, plastic, or heavy-duty metal. For everyday home use, I preferred a wire cage because it gave my dog better airflow and visibility. If I wanted something more enclosed for travel or a dog that feels nervous, I would consider a plastic crate. I also paid attention to build quality, because a sturdy frame makes a big difference in safety and durability.
The Door Design I Prefer
I learned quickly that the door design matters more than I expected. I liked cages with secure latches, because my dog was curious and sometimes tried to nudge the door open. A front door is useful for daily use, and a second side door can make placement easier in tighter spaces. For me, smooth door operation and strong locking mechanisms were must-haves.
Comfort and Ventilation Are Important
My dog stayed calmer in a cage that had good airflow and open visibility. I noticed that wire cages worked well because they let my dog see what was happening around the room. I also added a soft crate mat to make the space more inviting. In my opinion, comfort is not just about softness—it is also about making the cage feel safe and breathable.
Ease of Cleaning Was a Big Factor
I always considered how easy the cage would be to clean. A removable tray at the bottom made my life much easier, especially after accidents or muddy paws. I preferred cages with smooth surfaces and simple assembly, since that saved me time. From my experience, a cage that is hard to clean becomes frustrating very quickly.
Portability and Storage
I also looked at whether the cage could fold flat or be moved easily. Since I sometimes needed to rearrange furniture or take the crate on short trips, portability mattered to me. A foldable design made storage much easier when I wasn’t using it. If I had to move the cage often, I would definitely choose one with carrying handles or wheels.
Safety Features I Never Ignore
Safety was one of my top priorities. I checked for rounded edges, strong welds, and secure locks so my dog wouldn’t get hurt or escape. I also made sure the cage was the right size, because a crate that is too large can sometimes encourage accidents, while one that is too small can cause stress. For me, safety and comfort always go hand in hand.
My Final Tips Before Buying
Before I bought my 36-inch dog cage, I compared a few options and read customer reviews carefully. I looked for a crate that matched my dog’s size, my home space, and my cleaning routine. My best advice is to think about how your dog behaves, where the cage will be used, and how often you’ll move it. When I focused on those things, I ended up with a cage that worked well for both me and my dog.
Final Thoughts
I think a 36-inch dog cage is a great option for many medium-sized dogs because it offers a good balance of comfort, security, and portability. My main takeaway is to choose a crate that fits your dog’s size, needs, and daily routine so it feels like a safe space rather than a restriction. I also believe that the right cage can make training, travel, and home life much easier for both me and my dog.
Author Profile
-
I’m Emily Carter, a Philadelphia-based writer with a soft spot for useful objects, neighborhood places, and small details that make daily routines easier. Years spent supporting library programs and community arts events taught me that comfort often comes down to practical choices: a reliable bag, a good light, a simple tool, or something that does its job without demanding attention.
I started Open Culture Works to share honest thoughts on products that earn their place at home, at work, or on the go. I like clear answers, lived-in spaces, used bookstores, and purchases that keep helpful after the novelty fades.
Latest entries
- June 28, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Ameda Mya Joy Breast Pump with Large Tote: My Honest Review and Why I Loved It
- June 28, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the GE RPWF Water Filter: My Honest Review of Its Performance and Water Quality
- June 28, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Organic Snow Cone Syrup: The Best Natural Flavors for a Refreshing Summer Treat
- June 28, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Western Slip On Shoes and Found the Perfect Blend of Comfort, Style, and Durability