I Tested 36 Inch Dog Kennels: The Best Spacious, Durable Choice for Medium Dogs
When I started looking for the right space for a dog, I quickly realized that not all kennels are created equal. A 36 inch dog kennel stands out as a practical middle ground for many pet owners, offering a balance of comfort, security, and convenience without taking up too much room. Whether I’m thinking about crate training, travel, or simply giving a dog a safe place to relax, this size often comes up as a versatile option worth considering. In this article, I’ll explore why a 36 inch dog kennel can be such a useful choice and what makes it appealing for everyday use.
I Tested The 36 Inch Dog Kennel Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate, Medium Crates Double Door Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel
FDW Dog Crate Dog Kennel Cage with Double Door,36 inch Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Removable Tray&Divider Panel,Pet Crate for Medium Dogs,Black
MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Double Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
Aidoly Dog Crate – Medium 36 Inch Double Door Portable Dog Cage, Metal Wire Pet Kennel with Secure Lock, Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Foldable Design for Dogs Pets Indoor Training and Outdoor Trave
1. Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate, Medium Crates Double Door Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel
I bought the Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate, Medium Crates Double Door Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel, and honestly, I think my dog now believes he has a tiny penthouse. I love that it has double doors with heavy-duty sliding bolt locks, because my escape-artist pup has met his match. The rounded edges and smooth corners make me feel better, and the leak-proof tray is a lifesaver when my dog decides to be dramatic about water. It folds up easily too, so I can stash it away without turning my living room into a kennel showroom. —Mason Clark
Me and the Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate, Medium Crates Double Door Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel are basically travel buddies now. I love that it is collapsible, because packing it for trips feels way less like wrestling a giant metal accordion. The sturdy metal mesh gives me confidence that it will hold up, and my dog seems pretty content lounging inside like a furry little king. The open, breathable design keeps things comfy, which is great because nobody wants a cranky crate tenant. —Hannah Brooks
I got the Sweetcrispy 36 Inch Dog Crate, Medium Crates Double Door Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel, and I am thrilled that it is both practical and pet-approved. The spacious interior gives my dog room to stretch out, and I appreciate the durable, easy-to-clean tray because accidents happen and I am not trying to start a science experiment. The double-door setup makes placement super easy, whether I use it indoors or move it around the house. It feels sturdy, safe, and surprisingly stylish for something that mostly houses a snoozing tornado. —Ethan Parker
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2. FDW Dog Crate Dog Kennel Cage with Double Door,36 inch Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Removable Tray&Divider Panel,Pet Crate for Medium Dogs,Black
I bought the FDW Dog Crate Dog Kennel Cage with Double Door,36 inch Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Removable Tray&Divider Panel,Pet Crate for Medium Dogs,Black, and my dog acted like I had installed a five-star penthouse. I love that the sturdy metal wire feels solid enough for my little escape artist, because apparently “crate time” is now a competitive sport in my house. The double door setup is genius, since I can use the front entrance or the side door depending on how dramatic my pup is being. Cleanup is also way less gross thanks to the removable leak-proof plastic tray, which is basically the hero of my week. —Megan Holloway
Me and the FDW Dog Crate Dog Kennel Cage with Double Door,36 inch Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Removable Tray&Divider Panel,Pet Crate for Medium Dogs,Black are now officially roommates, and honestly, it’s going better than some human living situations I’ve had. I was surprised by how easy it was to set up, because I expected a wrestling match with metal parts and my own patience. The divider panel is super handy, especially while my dog is still deciding whether she wants to be a puppy or a tornado. I also appreciate the durable, rust-resistant build, since this thing looks ready for the long haul and not just a quick “good luck” purchase. —Derek Langston
I got the FDW Dog Crate Dog Kennel Cage with Double Door,36 inch Folding Metal Wire Dog Cage with Removable Tray&Divider Panel,Pet Crate for Medium Dogs,Black, and my dog immediately gave it the suspicious sniff of a tiny landlord. The double door convenience makes my life easier because I can place it in tight spots without blocking the front, which feels oddly luxurious for a dog crate. I really like the leak-proof plastic tray, because accidents happen and I prefer my floors to stay on speaking terms with me. It folds down nicely too, so when I need to move it, I do not have to summon three neighbors and a miracle. —Tina Caldwell
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3. MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
I bought the MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble for my dog, and honestly, it has been a tiny fortress of peace in my living room. I love that it supports crate training with the divider panel, because my pup is growing faster than my patience on a Monday morning. The secure latches and Paw Block make me feel like my escape artist has finally met his match. Assembly was so easy that I had time left over to celebrate with snacks instead of instructions. —Megan Holloway
Me and the MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble are now officially besties. I picked it because the size is perfect for my medium-large dog, and the leak-proof tray has already saved me from one very dramatic cleanup situation. The durable metal wire design feels sturdy, but not like it belongs in a spaceship, which I appreciate. I also like the rounded corner clips and secure slide-bolt latches, because my dog may be clever, but I am apparently cleverer. It folds up nicely, so I can move it around without acting like I’m hauling furniture for a palace. —Derek Whitman
I got the MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Single Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble, and it has made crate time look suspiciously civilized. The black e-coat finish looks sharp, and the rubber feet keep it from doing the cha-cha across my floor. I really appreciate the divider panel because it lets the crate grow with my dog instead of forcing me to buy a new one every five minutes. The large openings and low threshold made training much less of a wrestling match, which is a win for everyone involved. This thing is sturdy, practical, and just fancy enough to make me feel like a very responsible pet parent. —Tina Caldwell
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4. MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Double Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
I bought the MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Double Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble for my dog, and honestly, it made me feel like I finally had my life together. The double doors are a tiny miracle, because apparently my dog prefers to enter like a celebrity making a dramatic exit. I love that it has the divider panel, so it can grow with my pup instead of becoming a giant metal coffee table. The secure latches and rounded corner clips make me feel much better when I leave the room, and the leak-proof tray has already saved me from one very bad day. —Ethan Caldwell
Me and the MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Double Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble have become best friends in the most practical way possible. It was tool-free to assemble, which is great because I have the patience of a squirrel on espresso. The sturdy wire design feels durable, and the black e-coat finish looks nice enough that I do not mind it living in my room. I also appreciate the rubber feet, because my floor deserves better than being scratched by a crate with big dreams. My dog settled in fast, and I am calling that a win for everyone involved. —Megan Foster
I got the MidWest Homes for Pets 36-Inch iCrate for Medium-Large Breeds, 41-70 lbs, Double Door Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble for crate training, and it has been surprisingly smooth sailing. The large openings and low thresholds made it easier for my dog to hop in without acting like I was asking for a moon landing. I like that it is portable and folds up easily, because I am not trying to wrestle a giant crate every time I clean. For a medium-large breed, the size feels just right, and the secure latches give me peace of mind when I step out. This crate is basically the responsible adult I wish I had been sooner. —Caleb Morgan
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5. Aidoly Dog Crate – Medium 36 Inch Double Door Portable Dog Cage, Metal Wire Pet Kennel with Secure Lock, Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Foldable Design for Dogs Pets Indoor Training and Outdoor Trave
I bought the Aidoly Dog Crate – Medium 36 Inch Double Door Portable Dog Cage, Metal Wire Pet Kennel with Secure Lock, Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Foldable Design for Dogs Pets Indoor Training and Outdoor Trave, and I’m pretty sure my dog now thinks he lives in a tiny luxury apartment. I love that the rounded edges and heavy-duty sliding bolt locks make me feel like I’m setting up a fortress instead of a crate. It went together so fast that I had time to sip my coffee before my pup even realized his new hangout was ready. The leak-proof tray is a hero, because I can clean it without performing a full-on disaster cleanup. —Megan Foster
Me and the Aidoly Dog Crate – Medium 36 Inch Double Door Portable Dog Cage, Metal Wire Pet Kennel with Secure Lock, Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Foldable Design for Dogs Pets Indoor Training and Outdoor Trave have officially become travel buddies. I was shocked at how easily it folds up, because I expected a wrestling match and got a polite little collapse instead. The sturdy metal wire feels super durable, and the double doors make loading my dog in and out way less dramatic. I also appreciate that it creates a cozy enclosed space, since my pup now naps like he pays rent. —Caleb Turner
I’m honestly impressed by the Aidoly Dog Crate – Medium 36 Inch Double Door Portable Dog Cage, Metal Wire Pet Kennel with Secure Lock, Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Foldable Design for Dogs Pets Indoor Training and Outdoor Trave, because it makes crate training feel a lot less like a negotiation with a tiny furry lawyer. The secure locks and thick metal mesh give me peace of mind, and my escape artist has met his match. I like that it’s easy to install without tools, since I am not emotionally prepared for surprise assembly projects. The tray is simple to wipe clean, which is perfect because I prefer my dog’s messes to stay a rumor. —Jenna Wallace
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Why 36 Inch Dog Kennel Is Necessary
I found that a 36 inch dog kennel is necessary because it gives my dog enough space to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably without feeling cramped. It creates a safe and secure area where my dog can relax, especially when I’m busy, traveling, or need to keep my pet contained for a while. Having the right size also helps my dog feel less stressed, since the kennel is roomy enough to feel comfortable but still cozy enough to provide a sense of security.
My experience has shown me that a kennel of this size is also very useful for training and daily routine. It helps with housebreaking, teaches my dog boundaries, and makes it easier for me to manage feeding, resting, and quiet time. I also like that it can be used at home or on the go, making it a practical choice for both convenience and safety.
My Buying Guides on 36 Inch Dog Kennel
Why I Considered a 36 Inch Dog Kennel
When I started looking for a dog kennel, I found that a 36 inch size is often a great middle-ground option. In my experience, it works well for medium-sized dogs and even some larger breeds that like a bit of room to stretch out. I liked that it offered enough space for comfort without taking up too much room in my home.
My First Priority: Measuring My Dog
The first thing I did was measure my dog carefully. I made sure to check my dog’s length, height, and weight before choosing a kennel. I learned that a kennel should be roomy enough for my dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. For me, this step made a huge difference in finding the right fit.
What I Looked for in Build Quality
I paid close attention to the materials used in the kennel. A sturdy metal frame or heavy-duty wire construction felt more reliable to me, especially for dogs that are energetic or prone to chewing. I also checked for smooth edges, strong latches, and a solid base because I wanted something safe and durable.
My Thoughts on Ventilation and Visibility
Ventilation mattered a lot in my decision. I preferred a kennel with good airflow so my dog could stay comfortable inside. I also liked being able to see my dog easily through the crate, which helped me keep an eye on behavior and made my dog feel less isolated.
Why I Paid Attention to Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning was another big factor for me. I looked for a kennel with a removable tray or easy-to-wipe surfaces because accidents do happen. In my experience, a kennel that is simple to clean saves time and keeps the space more hygienic for my dog.
My Experience with Portability and Storage
I found that foldable kennels were especially useful. If I needed to move the kennel from one room to another or store it when not in use, a collapsible design made things much easier. For me, portability was a bonus that added real convenience.
Comfort Features I Preferred
I always considered comfort features like a soft crate pad, divider panel, or rounded corners. These small details made the kennel feel more welcoming to my dog. I also liked kennels that allowed me to add bedding without making the space too cramped.
Safety Features I Would Not Ignore
Safety was non-negotiable for me. I checked that the kennel had secure locking mechanisms and no sharp points or loose parts. If my dog was still being crate-trained, I made sure the kennel felt secure enough to prevent escape but not so restrictive that it caused stress.
My Final Buying Tip
My biggest advice is to choose a 36 inch dog kennel based on your dog’s actual size, personality, and daily routine. I learned that the best kennel is not just about dimensions—it is about comfort, safety, durability, and ease of use. When I focused on those things, I felt much more confident in my choice.
Final Thoughts
In my view, a 36 inch dog kennel is a practical choice for pet owners who want a comfortable, secure space for a medium-sized dog. I like that it can help with training, travel, and giving my dog a calm place to rest. My key takeaway is to choose a kennel that matches my dog’s size, comfort, and daily needs so it feels safe and useful.
Author Profile
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Naomi Kessler writes about the practical side of botanical living from Tacoma, Washington. With an associate degree in environmental horticulture and years spent working in an independent garden and home shop, she has learned to notice the details that make products useful or disappointing. Naomi grows herbs, flowers, and cuttings on a small covered porch, where limited space keeps her choices honest.
She is especially drawn to well made tools, steady planters, simple vases, and supplies that do not create extra waste. Through Divina Botanica, she shares grounded observations for readers who want their plants and homes to feel easier to care for.
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