dog in a heavy duty dog crate

7 Best Heavy-Duty Dog Crates

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Dogs come armed with sharp claws and sharp teeth. They would never knowingly use them against you, but there are times when they can get a little excited and use them on their surroundings. That is where high-quality dog crates can be a lifesaver.

There comes a time in every dog’s life when they need to be transported. A dog crate is not only an easy way to do this but does so in a way that makes the dog feel safe. A dog crate surrounds and comforts your dog, especially when you are on a long car journey. It also helps to protect your belongings, especially when your dog is sick or agitated.

We have found some of the most heavy-duty and durable dog crates there are and have compiled them for selection. Check out which ones we liked best but, before that, let’s look at what influenced our choice.

Our Top Picks

Here are some of the most durable dog crates on the market that are going to protect your dog.

1. ProSelect Empire Dog Cage

Available Sizes: 37″, 42″

There are two sizes available here, so it is perfect for a medium or large dog, and you only need to take one look at it to see how durable it is. The cage is crafted from solid 20-gauge steel, and the bars have been made extra thick to prevent bending. There are also cross-sections, further reinforcing the cage, and your dog is not going to be able to bend the bars to escape. The half-inch steel bars are some of the strongest out there, and this is definitely a cage that will last.

The ProSelect Empire Dog Cage gives your dog enough space to move around in, and the cage, itself, can move around too, thanks to some casters, which are easily attached to the bottom corners. You can use the cage with or without the wheels, depending on your needs. Mobility is excellent with the wheels, and removing them adds extra stability to the cage.

No one likes to clean up after a pet in an indoor setting, but this heavy-duty dog crate takes the pain out of that by including a removable tray at the bottom. The dog can stand, sit, or lie on the metal grate (with bars spaced close enough for comfort), while any mess can move through the grate to the tray below. The tray can then be removed for easy clean-up.

A heavy-duty dog crate that will stand the test of time.

2. LUCKUP Heavy-Duty Dog Crate

Available Sizes: 38″, 42″, 46″

When it comes to durable dog crates, the material and construction better be solid and heavy-duty. With this dog crate, you get exactly that. The frame has been crafted from metal which is rust and corrosion-resistant. Great for use in the great outdoors, and will not be susceptible from any moisture (and you know the kind of moisture that I am talking about). The finish is non-toxic, keeping your dog safe, and is almost impossible to damage.

The LUCKUP Heavy-Duty Dog Crate is perfect for medium or large dogs, and the caster wheels on the bottom make moving even the heaviest dogs a breeze. The casters can move in 360-degree motion or lock for when you want the dog crate to be stationary. You will also like the additional safety features on the front door which will stop your pet from opening it (no matter how clever they are).

If anything is easy to clean, then we are on board. With a removable tray at the bottom of the dog crate, you can quickly clean even the messiest (and stinkiest) messes. Simply remove the crate without having to open the crate or even remove your dog.

This dog crate comes flat-packed for convenience and is extremely easy to put together (even a dog could do it. Well, hopefully not).

3. SMONTER Heavy-Duty Dog Crate

Available Sizes: 38″, 42″

Is your large dog constantly escaping from its dog crate? Well, this heavy-duty dog crate could be the one for you. The escape-proof design features a Y-pattern design on the cage walls to stop your dog from being able to get their teeth around the bars. Even the strongest dogs are not going to be able to chew through this cage. The metal also stops the dog from sticking its mouth out and through the bars, and there is a double lock with safety buckles to prevent escape.

The SMONTER Heavy-Duty Dog Crate is made from heavy-duty and non-toxic metal, keeping your dog safe when they are inside. The dog crate is indestructible, though your dog can try to get through it without the material being toxic to them. The double door makes it easy and efficient for your dog to get in and out of the crate.

When constructed, the crate measures in at 38” x 26” x 32”. It can handle large dogs as long as you have space. The 360-degree rotating wheels also give you a full range of motion, allowing you to easily and safely transport your pet. The removable plastic tray on the bottom makes it easy to clean. Simply slide it out, clean, and replace.

A large, durable dog crate for any owners who have escape-artist dogs.

4. Otaid Heavy Duty Indestructible Dog Crate

Available Sizes: 38″, 48″

The Otaid Heavy-Duty Indestructible Dog Crate is a 48-inch cage kennel with four 360° rolling caster wheels. Two of the casters are lockable for a secure hold when you need the crate still. This cage is built for the strongest and most nervous or aggressive of dogs, with sturdy, dual bolt locks and a 20-gauge alloy steel frame. Rather than wire mesh, the cage is built with 0.5-inch steel tubing in an updated, durable design.

The cage kennel features two doors for easy interaction with your dog, as well as easy entrance and egress. Removable trays that slide out from underneath the floor grate make cleaning quick and easy, and the multi-layer green coating and outer paint are weather, scratch, and scuff resistant, as well as non-toxic, to keep your pet safe.

The crate comes in two colors, black, and silver weighs 88 lbs and has a carrying capacity of up to 300 lbs, making it suitable for almost any size of a dog. The crate is very simple to put together in about 10 minutes and can be disassembled to pack away flat. Enjoy peace of mind with a 30-day returns policy for replacement or refund, and a 1-year warranty on parts.

5. COZIWOW Heavy-Duty Dog Crate

Available Sizes: 37″, 42.5″

You can order this dog crate with a flat roof or an angled one, and the letter allows for larger dogs to stand up in the crate without being cramped. This is a really nice looking crate with enough space for your pet to relax while you are out and still get up and stretch their legs when they want to.

The strong and durable metal bars on COZIWOW Heavy-Duty Dog Crate are rust- and corrosion-resistant. This is important for the structural integrity of the crate, and also for the safety of your dog, should they bite or lick the bars. The coating on the frame is non-toxic, and the smooth metal surface ensures that neither you nor your pet is harmed should it be rubbed against.

The front door locks with two sliding bolts to securely lock your dog safely in the crate, but there is another access point on the top, which can be used to comfort your dog or for easy cleaning of the crate. The removable tray under the bottom mesh of the crate collects any dirt and excrement and allows you to easily clean up after your dog.

360-degree caster wheels make for easy traveling. You can effortlessly wheel the dog crate to and from your destination even with the dog inside. You can also lock two of the casters to prevent the crate from rolling when on uneven surfaces.

A durable dog crate that is easy to use and clean.

6. ITORI Heavy-Duty Metal Dog Crate

Available Sizes: 38″, 48″

With premium materials and construction, this reinforced dog crate is going to keep your dog safe and secure. The crate is large and has been specially designed with aggressive dogs in mind. If you have a dog that is constantly chewing bars or escaping from less durable crates, then it is time to invest in this one.

A lot of thought has gone into how to ensure the structural integrity of the ITORI Heavy-Duty Metal Dog Crate while allowing maximum ventilation and visibility. The bars are spaced so that your dog cannot get out, but not so close that they cannot see out, or you cannot see in. If your dog likes to see you, or vice-versa, this a great crate for a more open feel.

The dog crate also comes with all the other features that you expect with a high-quality, durable dog crate. The doors are secure to prevent escape, the bars have a non-toxic finish, there is a tray underneath for easy cleaning, and there are wheels for effortless movement.

The multi-layer hammer-tone coating also holds up really well to rust, corrosion, scuffs, scratches, and almost any other damage, protecting the crate but, more importantly, protecting the precious cargo inside.

A great dog crate for the most aggressive dogs who are only like that because they want to see and be with you.

7. KELIXU Heavy-Duty Dog Crate

Available Sizes: 38″, 42″, 46″

This dog crate is perfectly sized for medium dogs, though large dogs can fit too, and there is an option to buy bigger for the biggest canines. It is also a sturdy crate. You only have to take one look at it to know that it is a durable and strong dog crate. The simple, rigid, square look brings confidence, and you can be assured that your dog is going to be safe and protected in this crate.

The steel bars on KELIXU Heavy-Duty Dog Crate are designed to stop dogs from escaping. Even the most aggressive dogs will not be able to chew or push their way through these metal bars. The secure lock has been upgraded to be even more durable, thicker than the original, and impossible to chew through.

The sturdy frame has enough room for your dog to see you, and for you to interact and calm your dog through the bars. The double door aids that, and you can move your pet in and out of the crate easily, or have room to comfort them when they are settling into the crate.

The crate is easy to clean and can be wiped down with a household cleaner. The removable plastic tray underneath is always a welcome addition, as are the maneuverable wheels.

An excellent dog crate for more aggressive dogs.

Why Should You Choose A Heavy-Duty Dog Crate?

Durability definitely matters when it comes to a dog crate, especially if you have a large dog, a dog with sharp teeth, or a smart dog. With a regular dog crate, your furry friend can find ways to escape. In fact, many dog crates provide the perfect environment for a jailbreak.

If your dog likes to chew, then they will easily find the weak spots to chew on. These points are usually where the door connects to the rest of the crate, and they are usually small pieces of metal. For a dog who likes to chew, getting through these connectors is no problem.

Dogs are smart animals; there is no doubt about that. Regular dog crates have regular latches. If a small child can open that latch, then a dog can too. Your dog may open it by accident the first time but, after that, they will be able to open it easily every time.

If trial and error or gnawing do not work, then most dogs can use their strength to burst from their cage. Even the smallest dogs are capable of immense strength. People have witnessed many dogs pushing their way through bars, bending them in the process, or forcing open weak points in a crate.

With a combination of these techniques, dogs can easily escape a prison.

A heavy-duty dog crate will be more effective in stopping them.

Examples Of Dogs Escaping From Their Crates

If you have watched any heist movies in your lifetime, you will know that there is always a way in or out of a locked room. People are smart, but so are dogs. If you could get in and out of the crate, then there is a good chance that your dog can too.

Here are three common ways that anxious or intelligent dogs can get out of their enclosure.

Opening The Latch

Practice makes perfect. They may struggle with the latch at first, but once they have opened it once (and they will), there will be no stopping them.

The more they practice, the better that will get and, while it is pretty amazing to watch them open a latch, it only adds to your frustration. Many heavy-duty dog crates replace the simple wire latch with a sliding design, and two latches are better than one.

Finding The Weak Points

While metal connectors are sturdy, thin connectors can be gnawed at until they give. If your dog targets the weak points of their cage, the sides or doors can pop right off.

Heavy-duty dog crates feature thicker steel bars in the frame, and the connectors are thicker metal too, preventing your dog from chewing them. Look for parts that do not stick out as this allows your dog to get hold of it and gnaw or chew on it.

Brute Force Escape

Sometimes it does not matter what the material or construction is, a dog can burst through it with sheer size and strength. This show of strength can be frustrating for you and dangerous for the dog. If a crate is ripped apart, the dog can become caught on parts or injure themself on sharp metal.

Solid steel frames, and heavy-duty construction, helps to protect the dog by not breaking apart, no matter how strong your animal is. The heaviest-duty crates will not only ease your frustration but they will also give you peace of mind too. A heavy-duty crate protects your beloved pet.

What To Know Before Buying a Heavy-Duty Dog Crate

If your dog has proven how much they want to be beside you at all times, by breaking out of their crate in the name of love, then it may be time to invest in a heavy-duty crate. It can be challenging to have a dog who will not stay in their crate, but there are times when you need them to, and there are many benefits that come with it.

Before you do, however, you should be aware that not all crates are created equally. No crate is 100% perfect, and even the ones that are marketed as ‘escape-proof’ can sometimes fail. The only sure-fire way to know what you are getting is to look at the features:

  • If you want a crate which is going to contain your dog, then you should be looking for a metal one. Stay away from plastic, which can be easily broken or chewed through, and invest in security. You should also bear in mind that not all metals are up to the task. Look for heavy-duty metal, and go thicker where you can.
  • When you are moving a large dog, you do not want to have to lift the entire crate with the dog inside. Wheels on the bottom of the crate are a nice addition that does not compromise the security of the crate. The wheels are on the outside so cannot be got at by the dog. They take the strain off of you when you are moving the dog crate with a dog inside and reduce the risk of drops and damage.
  • A removable pan may not increase the security and durability of your crate, but it will make cleanup a lot easier, and that can only be good for your crate, for you, and for your dog. A removable pan allows you to take the floor out of the crate without taking the crate apart. A clean crate is one that is going to be more comfortable for your dog and keep them happier.
  • Ventilation is an important part of your crate, and you should always ensure that your dog is comfortable. When we were looking at crates, we wanted ones which did not sacrifice security for ventilation. We wanted the crates to be the most durable we could find but also those which gave comfort to our furry friends.
  • When we looked at the latches and locking mechanisms for the crates, we focused on the crates that had latches which were inaccessible to the dog inside. If they cannot reach the latch, then they cannot open the crate, no matter how smart they are. Barrel latches can often be opened by your dog but slam latches cannot.

Choosing The Correct Crate Size

There is no point going out there are buying a dog crate without knowing what size you need. I mean, would you buy clothing in a random size and hope that it fits?

It is vital to know which size of dog crate you need.

Most of this will depend on the size of your dog, but you also need to know the amount of space that they need in the crate. Some dogs need more space, while others benefit from a tighter fit. They should also be able to get in and out of the crate with ease.

You should know the height, length, and weight of your dog before you set out to buy a crate. Thankfully, finding this information is pretty straightforward, just follow our tips:

  • When measuring the length of your dog, measure from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail.
  • You do not need to add the tail to the measurements unless it is especially large.
  • When measuring the height of your dog, measure from the floor to the top of its head, while your dog is in the sitting position.
  • If your dog’s ears stand up, add that to the measurement too.
  • When you have your measurements, add a couple of inches to each number.

If you cannot measure your dog, then try to use common sense in the matter. If you have a large dog, then you are going to need a large dog crate. If you have a small dog, then opt for a smaller crate.

Comfort

Nobody likes having to crate their dog, but when you need to, the least you can do is ensure your dog is comfortable. The best crates have close-set bars on the bottom to create a level surface for your dog to lay on. Make sure the bars are close enough your dog’s paws will not slip through.

While a well-designed crate has a comfortable metal bottom for your dog, a crate pad is even softer. Just be aware that the crate pad might not survive your dog’s chewing and clawing. A good dog crate will be able to accommodate pretty much any crate pad of the proper size.

Another important trick is to remove your dog’s collar and tags before you crate them. It is just more comfortable for them to not be wearing a collar all the time, but it can also prevent accidents. Swinging tags and fabric collars can easily get caught in the crate’s latches, hinges, or other wires.

Editorial Staff

The DM staff writers are often joined by topic experts, to bring you the most accurate, reliable and trustworthy content.

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