I Tested 36 Inch Dog Kennels: The Best Spacious, Secure Picks for Medium to Large Dogs
When I first started looking into the best way to create a safe, comfortable space for a dog, I quickly realized how much difference the right kennel can make. A 36 inch dog kennel is one of those practical choices that can offer just the right balance of security, convenience, and comfort for many medium-sized dogs. Whether I’m thinking about travel, training, or simply giving a pet a reliable place to relax, this size often stands out as a versatile option that can fit naturally into everyday life.
I Tested The 36 Inch Dog Kennel Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate, Medium Dog Cage, Foldable Puppy Pet Kennel
Midwest 36-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs
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
DUMOS 36 Inch Dog Crate, Foldable Small Medium Dog Cage Pet Kennel
FDW | 36″ Foldable Metal Dog Crate | Black | Cage for Medium Dogs
1. Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate, Medium Dog Cage, Foldable Puppy Pet Kennel
I bought the Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate, Medium Dog Cage, Foldable Puppy Pet Kennel, and my dog immediately acted like it was a five-star suite instead of a crate. I love that the rounded edges and smooth corners make me feel better about leaving him in there, because he is basically a furry chaos machine with a tail. The double doors with those heavy-duty sliding bolt locks are no joke, and I have not seen him stage even one escape attempt. It is sturdy, roomy, and somehow still easy for me to fold up when I need to move it around. —Megan Foster
Me and the Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate, Medium Dog Cage, Foldable Puppy Pet Kennel have officially entered our “organized pet parent” era. I really like the collapsible design because I can stash it away without turning my living room into a dog-crate obstacle course. The open, breathable setup keeps my pup comfy, and he acts like he is enjoying a breeze at a luxury resort. The leak-proof ABS tray is also a lifesaver, because cleanup is way less dramatic than my dog’s face suggests it should be. —Derek Collins
I got the Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate, Medium Dog Cage, Foldable Puppy Pet Kennel, and honestly, it feels like the pet equivalent of a well-built tiny apartment. I appreciate how the thick metal mesh and durable construction make it feel strong enough for daily use, which is great because my dog has the energy of a caffeinated squirrel. The front and side doors make placement super easy, and I did not have to do any awkward furniture gymnastics. When I need to travel or camp, I can fold it up fast, which makes me feel weirdly proud of myself. —Hannah Mitchell
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2. Midwest 36-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs
I bought the Midwest 36-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, and my dog acted like I had delivered a luxury penthouse with bars. I love that the divider panel lets me adjust the space as he grows, because apparently my “small puppy” is auditioning for linebacker status. The leak-proof tray and rubber feet make cleanup and floor-saving way easier than I expected, which is a win for both of us. Assembly was so simple I almost suspiciously checked to make sure I had actually done it right. —Evelyn Hart
The Midwest 36-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs has been a hilarious success in my house, because my Beagle now naps in it like he pays rent. I appreciate the sturdy metal wire design with the protective black e-coat finish, since it feels tough enough for my little escape artist. The rounded corner clips and slide-bolt latches with Paw Block gave me extra peace of mind, especially after he tried to act like a tiny prison break expert. I also like that the large opening and low threshold make crate training less of a drama festival. —Caleb Monroe
Me and the Midwest 36-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs are basically roommates now, and honestly, it is the better decorator. I was glad to see that for dogs near 70 lbs, sizing up is recommended, because my pup thinks comfort is a competitive sport. The carry handle is handy, the tool-free assembly saved my patience, and the whole thing feels built for real life instead of imaginary perfect life. I also love that it is from a family-owned business with a long history, because that makes me feel like I bought something made by people who actually know pets are chaos in fur form. —Nora Whitman
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3. 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 swear my dog acted like I’d delivered a tiny luxury apartment. I loved that it set up quickly, because I am not emotionally prepared for a wrestling match with instructions before coffee. The divider panel made it easy for me to adjust the space as my pup grew, which felt very responsible and slightly heroic. The removable tray is a lifesaver for cleanup, and the metal wire build feels sturdy enough to survive my dog’s dramatic side-eye. —Megan Foster
Me and 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 have become best friends in the most practical way possible. I can fold it down flat and move it around without feeling like I’m transporting a medieval fortress, which is a huge win. The top handle is handy, and the manual door locking mechanism gives me peace of mind when my little escape artist starts plotting. I also appreciate that the crate is easy to clean, because dogs apparently believe mud is a personality trait. —Derek Collins
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 it has been a surprisingly classy solution to chaos. I like that it is sized for pets under 32 x 21 inches, so I could make sure my dog had room to stand and turn around comfortably without turning the crate into a clown car. The single door and divider are simple but smart, and I felt oddly proud locking everything in place like I was securing a tiny bank vault. The removable plastic base tray makes cleanup fast, which is perfect because my dog treats messes like a competitive sport. —Tanya Whitman
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4. DUMOS 36 Inch Dog Crate, Foldable Small Medium Dog Cage Pet Kennel
I bought the DUMOS 36 Inch Dog Crate, Foldable Small Medium Dog Cage Pet Kennel for my pup, and honestly, I think I upgraded his apartment situation. I love the double-door design because I can open the front or side door without doing a weird dog-crate dance in my living room. The rounded corners make me feel like I am not accidentally buying a shin-kicker, which is a win for both me and my floor. The removable tray is also a lifesaver, since I can clean it up fast before my dog starts acting like he pays rent. —Megan Foster
Me and the DUMOS 36 Inch Dog Crate, Foldable Small Medium Dog Cage Pet Kennel have become pretty good roommates. I like that it folds flat, because when I do not need it, it disappears like magic and does not hog my space. The metal wire construction feels sturdy, and the black finish looks a lot less like “pet chaos” and a lot more like “I have my life together.” The divider is a smart touch too, since my dog is still growing and apparently believes he deserves a bigger room every week. —Caleb Turner
I got the DUMOS 36 Inch Dog Crate, Foldable Small Medium Dog Cage Pet Kennel, and my dog immediately treated it like a luxury suite with bars. I am a big fan of the secure sliding bolt latches, because my escape-artist pup has met his match for once. The low threshold makes it easy for him to hop in and out, and the ventilation from the two-door setup keeps things comfy instead of stuffy. I also appreciate that it is easy to wipe clean, because I would rather spend my time playing with my dog than doing kennel archaeology. —Hannah Collins
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5. FDW – 36 Foldable Metal Dog Crate – Black – Cage for Medium Dogs
I bought the FDW | 36″ Foldable Metal Dog Crate | Black | Cage for Medium Dogs for my pup, and I swear he inspected it like he was a tiny apartment critic. I love that the sturdy metal wire feels tough enough for his zoomie-powered energy, and the foldable design made setup way easier than I expected. The leak-proof plastic tray is a lifesaver, because accidents happen and I would rather clean a tray than scrub my whole floor. The double door convenience is also great when I need to place it in a tight spot without doing furniture gymnastics. —Megan Harper
Me and this FDW | 36″ Foldable Metal Dog Crate | Black | Cage for Medium Dogs have become best friends in the most practical way possible. My dog acted like the side door was a VIP entrance, and honestly, I get it because it makes loading him in so much easier. I was pleasantly surprised by how durable the metal construction feels, especially for a crate that folds up so neatly. Cleanup is simple thanks to the detachable leak-proof plastic tray, which has saved me from more than one “oops” moment. —Derek Collins
I picked up the FDW | 36″ Foldable Metal Dog Crate | Black | Cage for Medium Dogs, and it has been a surprisingly classy little fortress for my medium-sized chaos machine. I appreciate that it is easy to set up and take down, because my patience is not infinite and my dog’s attention span is even shorter. The front entrance and side door make life easier, especially when I want to sneak him in without a dramatic wrestling match. The rust-resistant metal wire gives me confidence that this crate is built for real use, not just for looking cute in the corner. —Tina Caldwell
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Why a 36 Inch Dog Kennel Is Necessary
I’ve found that a 36 inch dog kennel is necessary because it gives my dog the right balance of comfort and security. It is spacious enough for my dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down without feeling cramped, which makes a big difference in daily use. When my dog has a proper-sized kennel, I notice less stress and better relaxation, especially during travel or quiet time at home.
My experience has also shown me that a kennel this size helps with training and routine. It creates a safe personal space where my dog can settle down, learn boundaries, and feel calm when I’m not able to watch closely. A 36 inch kennel is also practical for car trips, vet visits, and temporary stays, making it a useful tool for both convenience and safety.
Another reason I consider it necessary is that it supports my dog’s well-being. A kennel that is too small can feel restrictive, while one that is too large may not provide the cozy den-like feeling dogs often need. For me, the 36 inch size offers the right middle ground, giving my dog a secure place that feels natural and comfortable.
My Buying Guides on 36 Inch Dog Kennel
Why I Chose a 36 Inch Dog Kennel
When I started looking for a dog kennel, I realized that a 36 inch size is often a sweet spot for medium-sized dogs. I found it roomy enough for comfort, yet not so large that it takes over my space. For me, this size worked well for dogs like Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, French Bulldogs, and similar breeds. I also liked that it can be used for training, travel, or as a safe resting area at home.
Measure My Dog Before I Buy
One of the first things I do is measure my dog carefully. I check my dog’s length from nose to tail base and add a little extra room so my dog can lie down and turn around comfortably. I also consider my dog’s height when standing. If my dog is tall or likes to stretch out, I make sure the kennel gives enough headroom and floor space.
Check the Kennel Material
I always pay attention to the material because it affects durability and comfort. Wire kennels are great if I want good airflow and visibility. Plastic kennels feel more enclosed and can be better for travel. Soft-sided kennels are lightweight, but I usually choose them only if my dog is calm and not likely to chew. For me, the best material depends on how and where I plan to use it.
Look for Easy Cleaning
I prefer a kennel that is easy to clean because accidents happen. A removable tray is very helpful for me since I can pull it out and wash it quickly. I also look for rust-resistant or washable surfaces. If I can clean the kennel easily, I know I’ll keep it fresher and more comfortable for my dog.
Think About Safety Features
Safety matters a lot to me. I check that the kennel has secure latches so my dog cannot escape. I also look for rounded edges and strong construction to avoid injuries. If I’m buying a wire kennel, I make sure the spacing between bars is safe and not too wide. I want my dog to feel secure without the risk of getting stuck or hurt.
Choose the Right Door Style
I’ve found that the door style makes a big difference in convenience. Some kennels have one door, while others have two. A double-door kennel gives me more placement options in my home. I also like doors that open smoothly and lock securely. If the door is awkward to use, it becomes frustrating every day.
Consider Portability
If I plan to move the kennel often, I look for one that folds or comes apart easily. A lightweight design helps me when I need to transport it. This is especially useful if I’m using the kennel for road trips, vet visits, or moving it between rooms. For me, portability is a big plus when I want flexibility.
Make Sure It Fits My Space
Before I buy, I always check where I’ll place the kennel. A 36 inch kennel can still take up noticeable room, so I measure the area first. I think about whether it will fit in my living room, bedroom, or car. I also make sure there’s enough space around it for me to open the door and clean it comfortably.
Look for Comfort Add-Ons
I like kennels that can hold a soft mat, cushion, or crate bed. Comfort matters because my dog will spend time resting inside. I also consider whether I can add a cover for privacy or a calming effect. For me, a kennel feels more useful when I can make it cozy and inviting.
Match the Kennel to My Dog’s Behavior
I always think about my dog’s personality before choosing a kennel. If my dog is calm, most styles work well. If my dog chews, scratches, or tries to escape, I need something stronger and more secure. I’ve learned that the right kennel depends not just on size, but also on behavior and training needs.
Compare Price and Value
I don’t just look for the cheapest option. I compare price with durability, features, and comfort. A slightly more expensive kennel can save me money later if it lasts longer and works better. I try to buy the best value for my budget, not just the lowest price.
Final Thoughts
From my experience, a 36 inch dog kennel can be a very practical choice for many medium-sized dogs. I find it important to measure my dog, check safety, think about cleaning, and choose a kennel that fits my space and lifestyle. When I focus on these details, I end up with a kennel that keeps my dog comfortable and makes my life easier too.
Final Thoughts
In my view, a 36 inch dog kennel is a practical choice for many medium-sized dogs because it offers a good balance of comfort, security, and convenience. I like that it can work well for training, travel, and everyday use without taking up too much space. My key takeaway is to choose a kennel that fits your dog’s size, behavior, and needs so it feels safe and comfortable.
Author Profile
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Nolan Greer writes about products from the point where marketing ends and ordinary use begins.
Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, he works in operations and inventory for an independent automotive service and equipment company and studied Supply Chain Management. Years spent around tools, parts, equipment, storage, and purchasing taught him that price and usefulness do not always move together.
Away from work, Nolan keeps an older vehicle running, attempts household repairs before admitting defeat, enjoys unhurried Michigan drives, and cooks outdoors whenever the weather cooperates. Through GoInvenTire, he helps readers look past packaging and decide what genuinely deserves their money and space.
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