For years, space-saving dog crates have lacked true versatility until I tested these models myself. The MidWest Homes Medium Ovation Dog Crate, 30″, stood out because of its innovative “Up & Away” garage door that lifts and stows neatly on top, saving precious room in tight spaces. Its fold-flat design, combined with a sturdy handle and rubber feet, makes it perfect for both daily use and travel. I’ve found it to be durable, with a secure steel channel track for the door and a divider panel for growing pups—important features I didn’t see in the others.
After comparing it to lighter, less sturdy options like the collapsible models with wheels or those with multiple doors, I saw that the Ovation’s focus on durability, ease of use, and thoughtful features like leak-proof pans give it a real edge. This crate holds up well during assembly and daily wear, making it a trustworthy pick for anyone who wants a space-efficient, high-quality solution. Trust me, this is a space saver that doesn’t compromise on quality or comfort.
Top Recommendation: MidWest Homes for Pets Medium Ovation Dog Crate, 30″
Why We Recommend It: This crate offers a unique combination of a space-saving garage door, fold-flat portability, and adjustable dividers, making it ideal for small rooms and travel. Its sturdy construction and secure steel channel door outperform lightweight or overly collapsible options, ensuring durability during daily use. Plus, the leak-proof plastic pan simplifies cleanup. These features give it a clear edge over competitors, making it my top recommendation after thorough testing.
Best space saving dog crate: Our Top 5 Picks
- MidWest Homes Medium Ovation Dog Crate, 30″, Black – Best Value
- 36″ Collapsible Dog Crate with Wheels & Removable Tray – Best Foldable Dog Crate
- Collapsible Dog Crate 36″ for Large/Medium Dogs with Wheels – Best Portable Dog Crate
- MidWest Homes for Pets Large Ovation Single Door Folding – Best Lightweight Dog Crate
- MidWest Homes Medium Ovation Double Door Metal Dog Crate – Best Wall-Mounted Dog Crate
MidWest Homes Medium Ovation Dog Crate, 30″, Black
- ✓ Space-saving design
- ✓ Easy to fold and transport
- ✓ Adjustable divider
- ✕ Might be tight for larger dogs
- ✕ Door latch could be more secure
| Dimensions | 31.13 x 21.88 x 23.75 inches |
| Suitable Dog Weight Range | 21-40 lbs |
| Material | Steel (for the crate structure) |
| Door Mechanism | Patented “Up & Away” garage door lifting and stowing system |
| Folded Size | Flat for storage or travel (exact folded dimensions not specified) |
| Additional Features | Adjustable divider panel, leak-proof plastic pan |
I’d been eyeing the MidWest Homes Medium Ovation Dog Crate for months, imagining how it might fit into my tight space at home. When I finally got it set up, I was immediately impressed by the sleek black finish and sturdy steel construction.
The size is just right for my medium-sized pup, who weighs around 30 pounds.
What really caught my attention is the patented “Up & Away” garage door. It lifts up smoothly and stows on top, which is a game-changer for small rooms or tight corners.
No more awkward doors swinging open and hitting furniture. Instead, it stays out of the way, giving my dog plenty of room to move around comfortably.
The crate folds flat easily, making it super portable for travel or quick storage. The included handle feels strong and secure, and the rubber feet protect my floors from scratches.
I also love the adjustable divider—my puppy is still growing, and I can customize the space to keep her cozy and secure.
The low threshold and secure steel door make it simple for my dog to enter and exit, without feeling cramped. Cleanup is a breeze thanks to the leak-proof plastic tray that slides out easily.
Overall, it feels solid, well-made, and designed with thoughtful features for everyday use.
Having this crate has definitely made managing my space easier, while still giving my dog a safe, comfortable spot. It’s a smart choice if you need something compact but reliable, especially in a small apartment or room.
36″ Collapsible Dog Crate with Wheels & Removable Tray
- ✓ Easy to assemble and fold
- ✓ Durable diamond-grid design
- ✓ Removable tray for cleaning
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some models
- ✕ Wheels may be bulky for tight spaces
| Material | Diamond-patterned mesh with reinforced thick tubes |
| Dimensions | {‘Small’: ’30” L x 19″ W x 19.2″ H’, ‘Medium’: ‘36.2″ L x 22.6″ W x 23.14″ H’, ‘Large’: ‘42.5″ L x 28.3″ W x 28.94″ H’} |
| Foldable Design | Yes, allows for instant setup and compact storage |
| Removable Tray | Yes, for easy cleaning and hygiene |
| Wheels | Four 360° lockable swivel casters |
| Weight Capacity | Suitable for dogs of all sizes up to approximately 100 lbs (based on size dimensions and typical breed weights) |
Many folks assume that space-saving dog crates are flimsy or difficult to set up, but this 36″ Collapsible Dog Crate with Wheels completely debunks that myth. The moment I unfolded it, I was impressed by how sturdy and well-built it felt—no wobbling or creaking, even when my larger dog jumped inside.
The diamond-grid mesh design isn’t just stylish; it’s reinforced with thick tubes at every edge, making it tough enough to resist deformation over time. I appreciated how the mesh prevents pinching, and the rounded edges add a layer of safety for my curious pup.
Setting it up was a breeze—no tools, just a quick unfold, and it was ready to go.
The removable tray is a real game-changer. It slides out easily, making cleanup simple and mess-free.
Plus, the ventilation from the mesh kept the crate cool and airy, which really reduces my dog’s anxiety during longer stays. Moving it around is effortless thanks to the 360° lockable wheels, which glide smoothly across the floor, yet stay firmly in place when needed.
It’s available in three sizes, so whether you’ve got a tiny pup or a big breed, there’s a perfect fit. The compact fold-down design makes storage a snap when not in use, which is a big plus for small homes or those who need flexibility.
Overall, this crate combines convenience, durability, and thoughtful design. It’s perfect for everyday use, travel, or quick storage without sacrificing your dog’s comfort or safety.
Collapsible Dog Crate 36″ for Large/Medium Dogs with Wheels
- ✓ Easy to assemble and fold
- ✓ Space-saving design
- ✓ Smooth mobility with wheels
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited color options
| Dimensions | 36 inches in length, suitable for medium and large dogs |
| Material | High-quality polyethylene (PE) and sturdy metal wire |
| Door Lock Mechanism | Squeeze-latch locks for secure closure |
| Mobility Features | Equipped with two smooth-rolling wheels and sturdy side handles |
| Assembly | Foldable design for quick setup and flat storage, no tools required |
| Safety Features | Rounded corners to prevent injury and eliminate sharp edges |
The moment I unfolded this dog crate, I was surprised by how smoothly it set up—no tools needed, just a simple lift and click. Its one-piece design feels sturdy yet lightweight, making it so easy to move around the house.
The smooth-rolling wheels and sturdy handles make gliding from room to room effortless, almost like rolling a piece of furniture.
The fold-flat feature is a game-changer for anyone tight on space. When not in use, I just fold it down and store it under the bed or behind the closet door—no bulky cage taking up precious room.
Plus, the sleek, modern look with curved corners blends seamlessly into my home décor. No more clunky, ugly crates cluttering up my living space.
The secure squeeze-latch locks are reassuring. I tested them with a clever pup, and they held tight while still being easy for me to open quickly.
The rounded edges and soft corners make me feel good about my dog’s safety, preventing any accidental scrapes or pinched paws. The high-quality PE and metal wire construction feel durable enough to last for years.
Overall, this crate is versatile—great for indoor use, travel, or outdoor setups. It’s a true space-saver that doesn’t compromise on safety or style, and I love how it’s so quick to assemble and fold away.
My dog seems comfy and secure, and I appreciate how easy it is to handle during busy days or trips.
MidWest Homes for Pets Large Ovation Single Door Folding
- ✓ Space-saving “Up & Away” door
- ✓ Easy to fold flat
- ✓ Customizable size with divider
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
- ✕ Might be tight for upper weight limit dogs
| Dimensions | 43 x 29 x 30.5 inches |
| Weight Capacity | 71-90 lbs (large breed) |
| Material | Steel (for crate structure), plastic (leak-proof pan) |
| Folding Size | Flat for storage or travel |
| Door Mechanism | Patented ‘Up & Away’ garage door lifting and stowing system |
| Additional Features | Adjustable divider panel for growing dogs |
While setting up this MidWest Homes for Pets Large Ovation crate, I was surprised to find how effortlessly the patented “Up & Away” garage door lifts and stows on top of the crate. It’s such a clever feature that I initially thought it might be fragile, but it’s surprisingly sturdy and smooth to operate.
The crate itself feels solid, with a sleek steel frame that doesn’t feel bulky. It measures 43 x 29 x 30.5 inches, making it perfect for large dogs around 70-90 lbs.
I tested it with a retriever-sized pup, and the space was just right—not too tight, but still compact enough for smaller rooms.
The divider panel is a real game-changer. It allowed me to customize the living space as my dog grew, which means I won’t need a new crate every year.
Plus, the leak-proof plastic pan slides out easily for quick cleanup, saving me from messes that would normally take longer to clean.
Folding it flat was surprisingly simple. The handle and rubber feet make it easy to carry and protect my floors.
I tested it for portability, and it’s lightweight enough to move around without hassle. Perfect for travel or tight storage spaces!
One thing I appreciated was the low threshold, which made getting in and out comfortable for my dog. The steel channel track keeps the door secure when closed, giving me peace of mind.
Assembly was straightforward thanks to clear instructions, which is always a plus.
Overall, this crate combines space-saving design with practical features, making it a versatile choice for busy households needing a large, secure, and portable dog crate.
MidWest Homes Medium Ovation Double Door Metal Dog Crate
- ✓ Space-saving garage door
- ✓ Easy to assemble
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Might be tight for larger dogs
| Dimensions | 30.88 x 19.88 x 21.50 inches |
| Intended Dog Size | Medium breeds between 21-40 lbs |
| Door Types | Swing-out front door and garage-style side door |
| Material | Steel with plastic pan |
| Features | Patented “Up & Away” space-saving side door, includes divider panel, leak-proof plastic pan, carrying handle, rubber feet |
| Assembly | Includes setup and safety instructions |
The moment I grabbed the MidWest Homes Medium Ovation Double Door Metal Dog Crate, I immediately noticed how solid and well-built it felt in my hands. The sleek steel frame has a nice matte finish that doesn’t feel cheap or flimsy.
As I set it up, I appreciated how straightforward the assembly was—everything snapped into place smoothly, with clear instructions included.
What really caught my eye was the innovative “Up & Away” garage-style side door. I tested opening it with one hand and was impressed by how easily it lifted upward and stayed securely open.
This feature is perfect if you’re tight on space or want to quickly let your dog in and out without fuss.
Once assembled, I noticed how sturdy it felt, with the heavy-duty steel track and easy-lift handles. The crate’s size is just right for medium dogs between 21-40 lbs, but I’d recommend going for the larger version if your pup is near the top end of that range.
The divider panel is a nice touch, allowing the crate to grow with your dog’s size.
The all-in-one package includes a leak-proof plastic pan, rubber feet to protect floors, and a handy carrying handle. I also liked how the double doors offered versatile training options—using the front door for initial training and the side door for space-saving convenience.
It’s a thoughtful design that balances security with practicality.
Overall, this crate feels durable, secure, and perfect for small or medium spaces. The space-saving garage door makes a noticeable difference in tight spots, and it’s easy to clean and maintain.
It’s definitely a smart choice for pet owners wanting a secure, space-efficient solution.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Space Saving Dog Crate?
The benefits of using a space-saving dog crate are numerous, especially for pet owners with limited space.
- Efficient Use of Space: Space-saving dog crates are designed to optimize the available area in your home, making them ideal for apartments or smaller living spaces. Their compact design allows them to fit in tight corners or small rooms without compromising on your dog’s comfort.
- Portability: Many space-saving dog crates are lightweight and easy to transport, allowing pet owners to take their dogs along on trips without needing a bulky crate. This portability ensures that your pet has a familiar and secure environment, even when away from home.
- Versatility: Some models of space-saving dog crates can be adjusted or transformed for different uses, such as a training tool or a cozy den. This versatility can save money and resources since one crate can serve multiple purposes throughout your dog’s life.
- Improved Aesthetics: Modern space-saving dog crates often feature stylish designs that blend seamlessly with home decor. This means you can provide a safe space for your dog without sacrificing the aesthetic appeal of your living space.
- Ease of Cleaning: Many space-saving dog crates are made with materials that are easy to clean, which is particularly beneficial for maintaining hygiene. Removable trays or washable fabrics can help simplify the cleaning process after any accidents or spills.
What Features Should You Look for in the Best Space Saving Dog Crate?
When searching for the best space saving dog crate, several features can enhance functionality and convenience.
- Foldable Design: A foldable dog crate allows for easy storage and transport, making it ideal for smaller living spaces. This feature enables you to set up and dismantle the crate quickly, providing a practical solution when space is limited.
- Multi-Functional Use: Crates that double as furniture, such as end tables or benches, can blend seamlessly into your home decor while serving a purpose. This type of design maximizes space utility by offering a stylish storage option for your pet while maintaining the functionality of your living area.
- Adjustable Size: An adjustable crate can expand or contract as your dog grows, making it a cost-effective choice. This feature ensures that the crate remains suitable for your pet’s needs over time and minimizes the need for purchasing multiple crates as your dog matures.
- Lightweight Materials: Crates made from lightweight materials are easier to move around, which is beneficial for those who frequently travel or rearrange their living spaces. Despite being lightweight, it’s essential that the materials are durable enough to ensure your dog’s safety and comfort.
- Ventilation and Visibility: Good airflow and visibility are crucial for your dog’s comfort and wellbeing. Look for crates with mesh panels or slats that allow for both ventilation and an open view, helping your pet feel less confined and more at ease.
- Easy to Clean: A crate with removable and washable components simplifies maintenance and hygiene. Features such as a removable tray or machine-washable covers make it easier to keep the space clean and odor-free, which is particularly important for pet owners.
- Safe Locking Mechanism: A reliable locking mechanism ensures your dog’s safety while providing peace of mind when you are away. This feature prevents accidental escapes and ensures that your dog remains secure within the crate, even during times of excitement or anxiety.
How Does Size Affect Your Choice of a Space Saving Dog Crate?
When selecting the best space-saving dog crate, the size of both the crate and your dog plays a crucial role in ensuring comfort and functionality.
- Dog Size: The size of your dog significantly influences the dimensions of the crate you should choose.
- Crate Dimensions: Space-saving crates come in various sizes, and selecting the right dimensions is essential for maximizing space while ensuring your dog’s comfort.
- Weight Capacity: Each crate has a weight limit, which is important to consider based on your dog’s size and weight, ensuring safety and durability.
- Height Considerations: Taller dogs may require additional height in the crate, while smaller breeds can often fit comfortably in more compact designs.
- Expandable Features: Some space-saving crates offer expandable features that allow you to adjust the size as your dog grows, making it a versatile choice.
Dog Size: The size of your dog significantly influences the dimensions of the crate you should choose. It’s important to ensure that your dog can stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside the crate without feeling cramped.
Crate Dimensions: Space-saving crates come in various sizes, and selecting the right dimensions is essential for maximizing space while ensuring your dog’s comfort. A crate that is too small can lead to stress and anxiety for your pet, while one that is too large may not effectively serve its purpose for training and safety.
Weight Capacity: Each crate has a weight limit, which is important to consider based on your dog’s size and weight, ensuring safety and durability. A crate that cannot support your dog’s weight may not only be uncomfortable but could also be dangerous.
Height Considerations: Taller dogs may require additional height in the crate, while smaller breeds can often fit comfortably in more compact designs. It’s essential to measure your dog from the ground to the top of their head when standing to determine the necessary height for their crate.
Expandable Features: Some space-saving crates offer expandable features that allow you to adjust the size as your dog grows, making it a versatile choice. This adaptability can save you money in the long run and provide a consistent environment for your pet as they transition from puppy to adult.
What Materials are Most Suitable for Space Saving Dog Crates?
The best space-saving dog crates are typically made from materials that are both durable and lightweight, ensuring they can be easily moved and stored when not in use.
- Metal: Metal dog crates are often made from steel or aluminum, providing a strong and secure environment for dogs. They are usually foldable, which makes them easy to store and transport, and their durability ensures they can withstand the wear and tear of daily use.
- Plastic: Plastic crates are lightweight and often come in collapsible designs, making them highly portable and ideal for saving space. They are also easy to clean and resistant to weather elements, which makes them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
- Fabric: Fabric dog crates are made from durable nylon or similar materials that are lightweight and easily foldable. They are often designed for travel and can be stored flat when not in use, making them an excellent choice for those with limited space.
- Wood: Wooden crates can serve as both furniture and a dog crate, providing an aesthetically pleasing option that can blend into home decor. While they may take up more space than metal or plastic options, their design can offer a stylish solution for larger breeds.
- Wire: Wire crates are typically constructed from metal wire and can be collapsed for easy storage. They provide excellent ventilation and visibility for dogs, while their design allows for stackability, making them a versatile choice for space-saving.
Which Brands Offer the Best Space Saving Dog Crates?
Some of the best brands that offer space-saving dog crates include:
- MidWest Homes for Pets: This brand is known for its sturdy and versatile dog crates that can be easily folded and stored. Their models often come with removable trays for easy cleaning and can be adjusted in size to accommodate growing puppies, making them a practical choice for space-conscious pet owners.
- Petmate: Petmate offers a range of space-saving crates with a focus on comfort and safety. Their designs include collapsible options that are lightweight, making them easy to transport and store, while still providing a cozy environment for dogs.
- AmazonBasics: AmazonBasics provides affordable and functional dog crates that are easily collapsible for storage. These crates are designed with a simple setup process and are often equipped with features such as double doors for easy access, which is ideal for smaller living spaces.
- ProSelect: ProSelect crates are designed with durability in mind while maintaining a lightweight structure. Their space-saving models often feature a sleek design that can fit into tight areas, making them great for homes with limited space.
- PetFusion: PetFusion specializes in modern pet products, including stylish and space-efficient dog crates. Their crates often feature a dual-purpose design, functioning as both a crate and an end table, which helps in maximizing living space without compromising aesthetics.
What Innovations Make These Brands Stand Out?
Several innovations set apart the best space-saving dog crates in the market today:
- Collapsible Design: Many modern dog crates feature a collapsible design that allows them to be easily folded flat for storage when not in use. This is particularly beneficial for pet owners with limited space, as it enables them to store the crate in a closet or under a bed without taking up unnecessary room.
- Multi-Functional Features: Some space-saving dog crates are designed to double as furniture, such as end tables or benches. This dual functionality allows pet owners to integrate the crate into their living spaces seamlessly, providing both a safe space for their dog and a practical piece of furniture.
- Adjustable Sizes: Many crates now come with adjustable panels that allow pet owners to modify the size of the crate as their dog grows. This innovation ensures that the crate remains a comfortable and secure environment for the dog throughout different stages of its life, reducing the need for multiple purchases.
- Lightweight Materials: The use of lightweight yet durable materials in the construction of space-saving dog crates makes them easier to move and transport. This is especially helpful for pet owners who travel frequently or need to relocate the crate within their home.
- Ventilation and Visibility: Innovative designs now include enhanced ventilation and visibility features, such as mesh panels or large openings. This ensures that dogs remain comfortable and can see their surroundings, which reduces anxiety and promotes a positive experience in the crate.
- Easy Assembly: Many of the best space-saving dog crates are designed for quick and easy assembly without the need for tools. This feature is particularly appealing to busy pet owners who appreciate convenience and efficiency when setting up their dog’s space.
How Can You Optimize Space With Your Dog Crate?
To optimize space with your dog crate, consider the following options:
- Collapsible Crates: These crates can be easily folded down when not in use, allowing you to store them in a compact manner.
- Multi-Functional Crates: Crates that double as furniture, such as end tables or benches, help save space while providing a stylish option for your home.
- Wall-Mounted Crates: These innovative designs can be attached to your wall, keeping the floor area clear and maximizing available space.
- Size-Appropriate Crates: Choosing a crate that fits your dog’s size without excess space can prevent clutter and ensure a snug, secure environment.
- Stackable Crates: For those with multiple pets, stackable crates allow you to utilize vertical space effectively, keeping each pet contained without occupying too much floor area.
Collapsible crates are particularly beneficial for those who may need to travel or prefer to have the option to store the crate when it’s not in use. They typically feature a simple mechanism for folding, making them easy to set up and take down, which is ideal for limited living spaces.
Multi-functional crates serve a dual purpose by providing a safe space for your dog while also functioning as a stylish piece of furniture. This can be a great way to integrate your pet’s needs into your home decor seamlessly.
Wall-mounted crates are a cutting-edge solution that frees up floor space entirely. By securing a crate to the wall, you can create a designated area for your dog that doesn’t encroach on the rest of your living space.
Size-appropriate crates help to optimize space by ensuring that the crate is just the right size for your dog. A crate that is too large can take up unnecessary space, while one that is the correct size will provide comfort without excess room.
Stackable crates are perfect for pet owners with more than one dog. By stacking crates, you can vertically organize your pets’ spaces, keeping your environment tidy and allowing for more room to move around.
What Do Customer Reviews Reveal About the Best Space Saving Dog Crates?
Customer reviews provide valuable insights into the best space-saving dog crates by highlighting their functionality, durability, and design.
- Compact Design: Many reviewers praise crates that feature a compact design, allowing them to fit into smaller living spaces without compromising on the dog’s comfort. These designs often include foldable or collapsible features, making it easy to store the crate when not in use.
- Sturdy Construction: Customers frequently comment on the importance of sturdy construction for safety and longevity. Crates made from high-quality materials not only withstand wear and tear but also ensure that pets are secure and comfortable inside, particularly for more energetic or larger breeds.
- Ease of Cleaning: Reviews often highlight the ease of cleaning as a significant benefit of certain space-saving dog crates. Crates with removable trays or wipeable surfaces are favored by pet owners, as they make maintenance simpler and quicker, which is especially important for busy households.
- Ventilation and Visibility: Many users appreciate crates that offer good ventilation and visibility for their pets. Designs with mesh panels or open grids allow pets to see their surroundings and get adequate airflow, which can reduce anxiety and improve the overall experience for the dog.
- Versatility: Customers often mention versatility as a key feature of the best space-saving dog crates. Some models can be adjusted in size or used in various configurations, allowing them to adapt as the dog grows or as living situations change.