Welcome to the Golden Retriever puppy club. You’re about to go on a wild ride full of cuddles, kisses, and puppy breaths.
There is so much to consider at the start of your puppy journey it can get a little overwhelming.
That’s where we come in.
We’ve compiled a guide of the best dog crates for Golden Retriever puppies so you can learn what works, what doesn’t, and what might work best for you.
So, grab your Golden Retriever and settle in. Let’s get going!
Best Golden Retriever Dog Crate Overall: MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate
The MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate is the best crate for a Goldie puppy on our list. We’re looking at the 42-inch wire crate with a divider because the size is just right. But we’ll get into sizing your container a little later.
The dog crate comes with different size options:
18 inch.
22 inch.
24 inch.
30 inch.
36 inch.
42 inch.
48 inch.
This is a great variety and means no pup gets left behind. Whether you’ve got a mini-me or a gorgeous giant, the MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate has got you covered.
You can also select between a single or double door which is super convenient. It’s all about finding what works for your puppy.
The wire crate features a slide-bolt that will keep your dog safe. Even those little ninjas that always manage to find a way out won’t get through the Paw Block latch.
Looking at the dimensions for this specific dog crate, it stands at 42L x 28W x 31H inches. So it is more for a larger dog.
You might be wondering how your puppy will fit. That’s where the divide comes in. You can adjust the size of the holding area by moving the divider further forward.
After all, we don’t want little Golden fluff balls flying around the crate!
The MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate has a weight limit between 70-90 lbs, not that your puppy will be anywhere near that. But it’s nice to know they can grow into the wire crates rather than needing to buy a new one at every milestone.
The good news? The wire crate has a plastic pan at the bottom for easy cleanup. Plus, the rubber feet ensure the dog crate won’t fly across the floor.
With the carrier handle, you can easily get your Golden Retriever from point A to point B.
Knowing all this, you might be concerned with how much of your Saturday you’ll need to give up for the setup. Don’t worry; the iCrate takes seconds to assemble and doesn’t require any tools.
If you’re a traveling family, this dog crate is perfect. It can easily fold flat to take your fur buddy along on your adventures.
Design-wise, the electro-coat finish will suit most decor. It is satin black with durable wire to keep your pup safe and happy.
Overall, the MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate is top of our list of the best dog crates. It is sturdy, safe, durable, and made with your furry friends in mind.
Compared with the Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate, the MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate uses thicker wire that will last for years.
We won’t go in-depth into the Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate because it is very similar to the iCrate. The only difference is the slightly higher price with Amazon and the quality of the wire crates.
Pros
Safe: It features unique patented technology to ensure your pup can’t escape.
Durable: The crate is made from strong wire.
Easy to set up: You don’t need tools; simply pop the pieces together.
Various sizes available: The different sizes mean nobody gets left behind. All pups are in safe hands.
Cons
There are some complaints about the sharp edges, but the company has rectified this in the new model.
Price: $89.99
Best Travel Crate for a Golden Retriever: Petmate Vari Dog Kennel
If you’re a traveler and want to take your little Golden Retriever along, the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel is your best bet.
There are a few size options:
Up to 10 lbs.
24 inches.
28 inches.
32 inches.
36 inches.
40 inches.
The size of the dog crate you choose on should be based on the size of your Golden Retriever. 28 inches is a good option for smaller puppies. In contrast, 40 inches is suitable for a fully-grown adult.
When traveling, you don’t want your pup sliding around. So, it’s best to go with a smaller plastic crate. They can move around a little and get cozy.
That’s one thing we love about the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel. They’re durable plastic crates, allowing puppies a warm and cozy spot.
There are wire ventilation holes, and the tie-down strap holes will keep your doggo safe and happy throughout the journey.
The best part is that the kennel is air travel safe. It meets most cargo specifications but always check before traveling.
Safety-wise there is an easily accessible front latch that allows you to get to your pets quickly if you need to. Plus, the handle means easy transportation.
Our favorite thing about the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel is that it is made using eco-friendly materials. We all must do our part to keep our planet clean for our furry friends.
Pros
Varying sizes: The dog crates come in varying sizes to help your dog throughout its life stages.
Eco-friendly materials: The plastic containers are made with recycled materials.
Suitable for travel: The dog crate meets most airport guidelines.
Easy to reach lock: The front lock is easy to use and reach.
Cons
You’ll need to replace the crate as your dog gets older.
Price: $144.95.
Best Soft Crate for a Golden Retriever: Amazon Basics 2-Door Collapsible Soft Travel Crate
The Amazon Basics 2-Door Collapsible Soft Travel Crate will become your four-legged friend’s new bestie if you’re into the outdoors. So move aside, humans.
Yes, it’s that good!
The dog crate comes in four sizes:
Small—26 inches.
Medium—30 inches.
Large—36 inches.
Extra large—62 inches.
The sizing is up to you, but we highly recommend the XL as it means your little Golden Retrievers have some space to move around.
This isn’t the dog crate to take on a long road trip or plane. It’s not safe because of the soft materials. If you want something durable, look at the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel.
The Amazon Basics 2-Door Collapsible Soft Travel Crate is made from a polyester fabric that holds onto a PVC frame. It’s like a travel crib for babies, just with a top.
The material is super airy, which is why we recommend it for outdoor activities. It folds away, meaning easy transportation to the park or in the car for a camping trip.
Small Golden Retrievers will have a nice view with mesh ventilation. These are perfect for a hot summer’s day when they need a rest in the shade after the zoomies.
There are zips on the front and top to help get Golden Retrievers in and out. The top zip comes in super handy for little pups.
This is a brilliant option for outdoor activities. Wire crates like the MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate aren’t really the right thing to take on camping trips.
In comparison, the Amazon Basics 2-Door Collapsible Soft Travel Crate has everything to keep Golden Retrievers enjoying the outdoors.
Foldable: The dog crate folds to be super compact and travel-friendly.
Breathable: The light materials allow pups to breathe freely and enjoy the fresh air.
Varying sizes: The range of dog crates are perfect for all stages of life.
Easy to secure: The zips on the front and top quickly get little Golden Retrievers in and out safely.
Cons
Keep an eye out for teething pups. Those little teeth love soft materials.
Price: $107.99
Best Design-Friendly Golden Retriever Dog Crate: Alloswell Wooden Dog Crate Furniture
If you heard the words “dog crate” and immediately began to panic about your home’s aesthetic, don’t worry. You aren’t the first, and that’s why products like the Alloswell Wooden Dog Crate Furniture exist to begin with.
These crates for Golden Retrievers not only keep your dogs safe but also act as usable pieces of furniture for the house.
The cage lies underneath; you can use the top as a side table, shelf, or storage – basically for anything as long as it’s under 134 lbs.
The dark wood shelf on top of the black cage is gorgeous. It’s aesthetically pleasing and will go with just about any color scheme. If you do have a lighter aesthetic, then the Greige color might be better. It’s lighter on top but still matches the black cage.
The dog crate comes in various sizes:
25.2″L x 18.3″W x 21.9″H (small).
31.5″L x 21.7″W x 25.1″H (medium).
37.8″L x 25.4″W x 28.9″H (large).
In terms of getting in and out, your Golden Retriever has two options. There is a front and side entrance. You can put the side panel on the left or right when assembling.
When it’s time to clean up, the removable tray comes in handy. Simply remove, clean, and put it back.
The cage aspect is nice because your pup isn’t closed off from everything. The puppy can still interact with you and snoop at what’s happening.
Golden Retrievers love to see what their dog owners are doing. So, we don’t recommend having them closed off.
The large Alloswell Wooden Dog Crate Furniture is about $100 more expensive than the MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate. But this is to be expected because it doubles up as furniture.
Pros
Great design: The crate uses solid wood and black metal to achieve a beautiful look that fits all aesthetics.
Dual usage: It serves as a heavy-duty dog crate and a piece of furniture.
Varying sizes: The range of dog crates is a good option for all stages of life.
Easy to construct: The container comes with easy instructions.
Cons
More expensive than the other dog crates on our list.
Price: $189.99
Crates For Golden Retrievers—Buying Guide
Types of dog cages
Wire crates: This is a traditional cage. Many move away from the term cage because of the negative connotation of trapping your animal. But this heavy-duty dog crate is a humane way to keep Golden Retrievers safe. It has a lot of ventilation and is super sturdy.
Soft crates: These look a little like a travel baby cot and are made with soft materials like polyester. These are great for camping trips where you want to take your four-legged pals along but don’t want to compromise on safety.
Travel crates: Also known as plastic crates, these are what you’re looking for if you plan to take your Golden Retriever on a road trip or a plane. They are usually made from rigid plastic and contain all the necessary parts to secure the crate in place. They are stable and keep doggos safe while in transit. Be sure to look at the cargo requirements before flying.
Crate training your Golden Retriever
Golden Retriever owners, it’s time to listen up. Crate training is one of the most important things we ever do as dog owners.
Dog crates are an essential part of ensuring our Golden Retrievers are safe. Unfortunately, to give you an example, we have to think of one of the worst things.
Imagine your house is on fire, and think of how you will panic. Now imagine what your dog will feel like, not understanding what it is and how to get out.
This is an extreme example, but it’s a good one. In any unfortunate event you want to know, you can tell your Golden Retriever to get in, and they’ll listen.
It allows you to get them out of an emergency quickly. The same goes for a medical emergency.
If your little Golden Retriever gets hurt, they need to be comfortable getting into its crate. It helps them remain calm and have a sense of certainty in a scary situation.
Now that we know why it’s important, let’s look at what you can do to crate train Golden Retrievers.
Pick the right spot: We recommend a quiet room where your dog can sleep and relax. Maybe the lounge where they can chill with the family. Dogs need their own space, so a crate is something they naturally seek out. Like us, they also need some alone time in the quiet.
Make the crate comfortable: If your dog feels relaxed and calm in the crate from the start, it will likely instinctively go to the container on its own. Dogs look for a space to nest, and an excellent fluffy blanky in the crate will help.
Treats, treats, and more treats: If your dog doesn’t go into the crate, don’t panic, they will sense it. You can lure your pup in with treats, throw the treat, and see what happens. Some Golden Retrievers take a little longer, but generally, anything with goodies and the Golden Retriever is putty in your hands.
Leave the door open: You can leave the door open and see if your Golden Retriever goes to the crate. You can reinforce the behavior with treats if your dog doesn’t stay put. Trust us; they’ll stay there as long as there’s a treat.
Get moving: Keep the door open, gradually moving away from the crate. As your Golden Retriever gets used to it, they won’t need to follow you all over the place. Your dog should be comfortable staying in the crate alone without you there with the treats.
Time to close the door: This takes the most time for doggos to get used to. Follow the steps above with the treats to get your dog comfortable. If they panic when you close the door, open it. It’s a gradual process, so don’t push them in at the deep end. Negative emotions around a crate are a nightmare to get rid of.
It’s vital to start crate training your puppy as early as possible. Yes, it’s super cute when puppers come to lie in bed with us and snuggle up, but it’s not the best option when they get big.
Start crate training as soon as you get your puppy. They will have time to get used to it and get comfortable with having their own space.
What size crate is right for a Golden puppy?
This can get complicated. You might think your dog is small, so surely it needs a small crate. But it’s not that simple.
Remember, your little Golden is going to become an adult dog. As amazing as the puppy phase is, it doesn’t last forever.
Your small fluff ball could grow into an 85 lbs cuddle machine. When that happens, that once beloved crate goes straight into the bin.
This causes two issues. Firstly it’s wasteful; you want to save money and avoid buying unnecessary products. Secondly, stick with one crate if you can. Golden Retrievers generally get attached to their dog crates. Changing things halfway through might be an issue for training.
So, with that in mind, what size crate should you get for your Golden Retriever?
If the crate is for the home, you can go with one of at least 40 inches. This gives your Golden Retriever enough space to get up and turn. We don’t want anything too cramped; otherwise, they aren’t going to like it.
This changes if you’re planning to travel with your Golden Retriever. A small puppy will need a smaller crate, and if it’s too big, it becomes unsafe. Flying puppies might sound cute, but it’s not something we want to try.
If you’re traveling with your puppy, you might have to bite the bullet and get smaller dog crates for Golden Retrievers. But if you want to travel when they’re bigger, it’ll have to be something suitable for their size again.
FAQs
What kind of dog crate should I buy my Goldie puppy?
This depends on what you plan to do with it. For in-house dog crates for Golden Retrievers, we recommend wire crates. They are sturdy and reliable. A soft dog crate is suitable for outdoor activities like camping and the park. Plastic crates are an excellent option for traveling as they are safe and durable.
Are dog crates good for a Retriever puppy?
Yes, crate training your puppy from a young age is vital to being responsible Golden Retriever owners. Crates allow your pup to have its own space and provide a way for you to get your Golden Retriever best friend out in an emergency.
Is it okay for Golden Retriever puppies to sleep in dog crates?
Absolutely. It is one of the best options for sleeping. Putting your puppy in bed with you can lead to issues later on. Your puppy should have an area to sleep in with their own bed.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, dog crate training is essential to owning Golden Retrievers. We always want to do the best for our dogs, and this is part of it.
A dog crate during an emergency can be the difference between life and death. We mean that quite literally.
With that in mind, the top pick on our list of the best dog crates for Golden Retriever puppies is the MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate.
It comes in various sizes to see your dog through all life stages. It is sturdy, well-made, and very safe. But those are just a few reasons. Please scroll up to read our full review.
If you’re looking for more info on everything pets, BarksInThePark has got you covered. We hope this article helps you find the perfect crate.
