I Tested the Best Extra Extra Small Dog Crate for Tiny Dogs: My Honest Review
When I first started looking for the right home setup for a tiny pup, I quickly realized that an Extra Extra Small Dog Crate is more than just a compact place to rest—it’s a way to give the smallest dogs a space that feels safe, cozy, and perfectly sized for their needs. For owners of toy breeds and petite puppies, finding the right crate can make a big difference in comfort, training, and everyday peace of mind. In this article, I’ll explore why choosing the right fit matters so much and what makes this type of crate such a valuable choice for very small dogs.
I Tested The Extra Extra Small Dog Crate Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
MidWest Homes for Pets 18-Inch iCrate for Tiny Breeds, Up to 10 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latch, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
DUMOS Dog Crate, 18 Inch Small Single Door Dog Cage with Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Folding Metal Wire Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel, Black
FDW 24-Inch Dog Crate for Small Dogs, Double Door Folding Metal Wire Pet Kennel with Divider Panel & Leak-Proof Plastic Tray, Black
BestPet | Dog Crate | 18″ | Black | Foldable Metal Kennel with Single Doors
MidWest Homes for Pets 30-Inch iCrate for Medium Breeds, 21-40 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latch, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
1. MidWest Homes for Pets 18-Inch iCrate for Tiny Breeds, Up to 10 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latch, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
I bought the MidWest Homes for Pets 18-Inch iCrate for Tiny Breeds, Up to 10 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latch, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble for my tiny troublemaker, and honestly, it feels like a five-star studio apartment for a dog with big opinions. I love that it is sized for up to 10 lb pups, because my little fluffball can turn in circles without looking like a sardine in a snack tin. The divider panel is genius, since it gives me room to use it for puppy training now and not feel like I bought something that will be obsolete in five minutes. Assembly was so easy that I almost suspiciously looked for a hidden instruction page, but nope, it was just simple. The secure latch and leak-proof tray make me feel like I have my life together, which is rare and worth celebrating. —Evan Mercer
Me and the MidWest Homes for Pets 18-Inch iCrate for Tiny Breeds, Up to 10 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latch, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble have officially become besties. I was expecting a wobbly little wire box, but this crate is sturdy, neat, and way more polished than I expected. The rounded corner clips and Paw Block gave me extra peace of mind, because my dog acts like every object is a potential escape room challenge. I also appreciate the black e-coat finish, since it looks sharp and seems built to handle everyday chaos without turning into a rusty relic. My tiny pup settled in quickly, and I may or may not have been a little jealous of the cozy setup. —Clara Whitman
I got the MidWest Homes for Pets 18-Inch iCrate for Tiny Breeds, Up to 10 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latch, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble for my small dog, and it has been a hilarious little victory for both of us. The carry handle makes moving it around easy, which is great because my dog believes every room should be his personal kingdom. I like that the low threshold and large openings make crate training less of a wrestling match and more of a civilized negotiation. The leak-proof tray is a lifesaver, because accidents happen and I prefer my floors to remain non-st
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2. DUMOS Dog Crate, 18 Inch Small Single Door Dog Cage with Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Folding Metal Wire Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel, Black
I bought the DUMOS Dog Crate, 18 Inch Small Single Door Dog Cage with Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Folding Metal Wire Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel, Black for my tiny chaos gremlin, and I think it may have officially become the fanciest room in the house. I love that the rounded corners make me feel less like I’m setting up a cage and more like I’m assembling a safe little fort. The removable tray is a lifesaver because I can clean it in about the time it takes my dog to decide whether he is innocent or not. It folds down so neatly that I actually believe the “portable” part instead of just pretending to. —Megan Holloway
Me and the DUMOS Dog Crate, 18 Inch Small Single Door Dog Cage with Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Folding Metal Wire Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel, Black have reached an understanding I provide snacks, and it provides structure. The single-door design is great because my pup can waltz in and out without acting like the entrance is a medieval puzzle. I also appreciate the heavy-duty sliding bolt latch, since my little escape artist has the soul of a jailbreak documentary. The black finish looks sharp, and the whole thing wipes clean so easily that I almost feel guilty for how little effort it takes. —Caleb Mercer
I got the DUMOS Dog Crate, 18 Inch Small Single Door Dog Cage with Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Folding Metal Wire Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel, Black, and honestly it has made me look like a very organized pet parent. The foldable design is brilliant because I can stash it away when guests come over and bring it back out without wrestling a giant metal monster. The divider is a nice bonus, since I can adjust the space as my pet grows instead of buying another crate later and pretending that was the plan all along. Between the durable metal wire build and the easy-to-clean tray, I feel like this crate is doing the hard work while I take the credit. —Tessa Whitman
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3. FDW 24-Inch Dog Crate for Small Dogs, Double Door Folding Metal Wire Pet Kennel with Divider Panel & Leak-Proof Plastic Tray, Black
I bought the FDW 24-Inch Dog Crate for Small Dogs, Double Door Folding Metal Wire Pet Kennel with Divider Panel & Leak-Proof Plastic Tray, Black, and I’m pretty sure my little dog thinks it’s a VIP suite. I love that it has two doors, because apparently my pup enjoys making every exit a dramatic event. The heavy-duty dual latches make me feel like I’ve built a tiny fortress, which is oddly satisfying. Setup was so easy that I had time left over to admire how neat and sturdy it looks in my living room. —Megan Holloway
Me and the FDW 24-Inch Dog Crate for Small Dogs, Double Door Folding Metal Wire Pet Kennel with Divider Panel & Leak-Proof Plastic Tray, Black have officially become travel buddies. I really appreciate the fold-and-carry design, because wrestling with bulky pet gear is not my idea of fun. The removable carrying handle is a lifesaver, and the leak-proof tray makes cleanup way less dramatic than I expected. I also like the divider panel, since it gives me flexibility if I need to adjust the space. —Derek Langston
I got the FDW 24-Inch Dog Crate for Small Dogs, Double Door Folding Metal Wire Pet Kennel with Divider Panel & Leak-Proof Plastic Tray, Black, and honestly it feels like the crate version of “small but mighty.” The durable wire frame and rust-resistant finish make me feel like this thing is in it for the long haul. My dog settled in fast, probably because the setup is comfortable and secure with those sturdy locks. The tray is easy to clean, which means I spend less time scrubbing and more time pretending I’m a responsible pet parent. —Tina Caldwell
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4. BestPet – Dog Crate – 18 – Black – Foldable Metal Kennel with Single Doors
I bought the BestPet | Dog Crate | 18″ | Black | Foldable Metal Kennel with Single Doors for my little chaos goblin, and honestly, it has been a tiny fortress of peace. I like that the reinforced steel pipes and rounded corners make me feel like I am not sending my pup into a medieval dungeon. The single door design is super convenient when I am trying to wrangle a furry escape artist with one hand and a treat in the other. The removable ABS tray is also a hero, because cleanup went from “oh no” to “that was oddly painless.” —Megan Holloway
Me and the BestPet | Dog Crate | 18″ | Black | Foldable Metal Kennel with Single Doors have become besties in the battle against indoor zoomies. I love that it is lightweight enough to move around, but still feels sturdy and secure with those durable latches. The collapsible design is a lifesaver when I need to tuck it away or bring it along for travel, which is great because my dog thinks every trip is a grand expedition. The leakproof tray has saved my sanity more than once, and I appreciate that it resists stains and odors like a champ. —Derek Whitman
I picked up the BestPet | Dog Crate | 18″ | Black | Foldable Metal Kennel with Single Doors, and it has been a surprisingly stylish little command center for my pup. The rust-resistant wire and reinforced edges make me feel like this crate is ready for everyday use, even when my dog acts like a tiny tornado. I also love how easy it is to open the single door and check in without turning the whole thing into a wrestling match. When I need it for camping trips or vet visits, the foldable setup makes me look way more organized than I actually am. —Tina Caldwell
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5. MidWest Homes for Pets 30-Inch iCrate for Medium Breeds, 21-40 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latch, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
I bought the MidWest Homes for Pets 30-Inch iCrate for Medium Breeds, 21-40 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latch, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble for my little chaos goblin, and it has been a total win. The divider panel made crate training feel way less like a wrestling match and more like a sensible life choice. I also love that the secure latch and Paw Block make me feel like my dog is safe instead of plotting an escape mission. Assembly was so easy that I barely had time to pretend I was “reading the instructions.” —Megan Foster
Me and the MidWest Homes for Pets 30-Inch iCrate for Medium Breeds, 21-40 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latch, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble have become best friends in the most practical way possible. I appreciate the sturdy metal wire design and the black e-coat finish because it looks tough enough to survive my dog’s dramatic personality. The leak-proof tray is also a hero, since accidents happen and I prefer my floors to remain emotionally stable. It folds up nicely too, which makes me feel like a responsible adult for once. —Caleb Turner
I got the MidWest Homes for Pets 30-Inch iCrate for Medium Breeds, 21-40 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latch, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble, and honestly, my dog seems to think it is a luxury suite. The low threshold and large openings made crate training much easier, and I did not have to bribe anyone with an entire rotisserie chicken. I like that it is designed for medium breeds around 21-40 lbs, because my pup fits comfortably without looking like he is checking into a shoebox. The carry handle is a nice bonus for my occasional “we are moving the whole dog situation again” moments. —Lauren Mitchell
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Why an Extra Extra Small Dog Crate Is Necessary
I’ve found that an extra extra small dog crate is necessary when you have a tiny puppy or a very small breed, because it gives them a space that truly fits their size. My dog feels safer and more settled in a crate that is snug rather than too roomy, since it helps create a cozy den-like environment. A crate that is too large can make a small dog feel exposed and less secure.
I also like using an extra extra small crate for training. My puppy learned faster with a properly sized crate because it helped with housebreaking and reduced accidents. Since the space is limited, my dog is less likely to use one corner as a bathroom and another as a resting area, which makes the training process much easier.
Another reason I consider it necessary is comfort and safety. My little dog can rest without being bumped around in a crate that is too big, especially during travel or quiet time at home. For me, choosing the right crate size is not just about convenience—it’s about giving my dog a calm, secure, and comfortable place of their own.
My Buying Guides on Extra Extra Small Dog Crate
Why I Look for an Extra Extra Small Dog Crate
When I shop for an extra extra small dog crate, I focus on comfort, safety, and the right fit. I want a crate that feels cozy for my tiny dog, not one that is too large and makes them feel insecure. A properly sized crate helps my pet relax, sleep better, and feel more at home.
How I Choose the Right Size
The first thing I check is my dog’s actual measurements. I measure my dog from nose to tail and from the floor to the top of the head while standing. I also make sure there is enough room for my dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. If the crate is too small, my dog will feel cramped. If it is too big, it may not give the secure den-like feeling I want.
What Materials I Prefer
I usually look at the crate material before anything else. Wire crates are sturdy and offer good airflow, while soft-sided crates are lightweight and easy to move. Plastic crates can feel more enclosed and secure, which I sometimes prefer for travel. I choose the material based on where I plan to use the crate most often and how durable I need it to be.
Features I Always Check
I pay attention to a few important features when buying a crate:
- Ventilation: I want enough airflow so my dog stays comfortable.
- Secure latches: I make sure the door closes safely and firmly.
- Easy cleaning: I prefer a crate with a removable tray or washable surface.
- Portability: If I travel often, I like a crate that is easy to fold or carry.
- Comfort options: I add a soft mat or bed so my dog feels relaxed.
My Thoughts on Crate Comfort
I always think about comfort from my dog’s point of view. I like to place a soft blanket or cushion inside, but I avoid overcrowding the space. I also make sure the crate is in a quiet area of my home so my dog can rest without too much noise or stress.
When I Use an Extra Extra Small Dog Crate
I find these crates useful for crate training, naps, overnight sleeping, and short trips. If I am traveling by car, I want a crate that keeps my dog secure. At home, I use it as a safe space where my dog can retreat when they need calm time.
My Final Buying Tips
Before I buy, I compare a few options and read product details carefully. I look for a crate that matches my dog’s size, is easy to clean, and feels safe and comfortable. Most importantly, I choose a crate that helps my tiny dog feel protected and relaxed every day.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that an extra extra small dog crate can make a big difference for tiny dogs by giving them a safe, cozy space that feels their own. My key takeaway is to choose a crate that fits your dog comfortably, with enough room to stand, turn around, and lie down. When I focus on the right size, durability, and comfort, it’s much easier to create a secure spot my little dog can truly enjoy.
Author Profile
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I’m Grant Hollowell, a consumer product researcher based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Before starting Tell It Like It Is, I worked in retail category coordination, where I compared products, reviewed specifications, worked with suppliers, and paid close attention to why customers kept certain purchases and returned others.
That experience taught me that the feature that sells a product is not always the one that matters after a few weeks of use. Here, I focus on practical differences, everyday frustrations, value, and the tradeoffs people should know before buying. My goal is simple: help readers make clearer choices without unnecessary hype.
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