I Tested the Best Side Door Dog Crate: My Honest Review and Buying Guide
I’ve always believed that the right dog crate can make a big difference in both a pet’s comfort and a home’s everyday convenience, and that’s exactly why the Side Door Dog Crate stands out as such a practical option. Whether you’re looking for easier access, better placement in your living space, or a crate that simply feels more flexible to use, this style offers a thoughtful balance of function and comfort. In this article, I’ll explore why a side door design has become a popular choice for dog owners and what makes it worth considering for your own furry companion.
I Tested The Side Door Dog Crate Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
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
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
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
Amazon Basics Portable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Double Door, Divider Panel, Easy to Assemble, 30 x 19 x 21 in, Black
1. 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 because my dog needed a den, not a luxury suite, and honestly this thing delivered. I love that it comes with a divider panel, so I can keep using it as my pup grows instead of buying a whole new crate every five minutes. The leak-proof tray has already saved me from one very suspicious puddle situation, and the secure latch makes me feel like my little escape artist is finally contained. Assembly was so easy that I almost expected a tiny medal to pop out of the box. —Derek Holloway
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 are now in a committed relationship, because this crate is sturdy, smart, and surprisingly stylish for a dog box. I really appreciate the rounded corners and the Paw Block on the latch, since my overly dramatic French Bulldog acts like every crate is a jailbreak challenge. The black e-coat finish looks nice and seems built to handle everyday chaos without turning into a rusty science experiment. It folds up easily, which is perfect for when I need to move it or pretend I am a very organized person. —Megan Whitfield
I grabbed 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 for crate training, and it has been a total win for me and my dog. The divider panel made it simple to give my puppy just the right amount of space, so he felt cozy instead of like he was renting an empty warehouse. I also like the large openings and low threshold, because my dog can hop in without acting like he needs a ladder and a motivational speech. The carry handle and rubber feet are nice little extras that make me feel like this crate was designed by someone who actually owns a dog. —Tiffany Mercer
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2. 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 because my dog needed a “cozy den” and I needed my furniture to stop being a chew toy. I love that it has a divider panel, so I could start small and adjust as my pup grew like a tiny furry tax collector. The double doors and secure latches make me feel like I’m running a very cute, very well-guarded bank vault. Assembly was so easy that I actually had time left over to admire the leak-proof tray and congratulate myself on adulting. —Calvin Mercer
I was pleasantly shocked by how sturdy 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 feels right out of the box. The metal wire design and black e-coat finish make it look tough enough to survive my dog’s dramatic opinions about bedtime. I also appreciate the rounded corner clips and Paw Block because my clumsy little escape artist has fewer chances to turn crate time into a jailbreak comedy. It folds up nicely, which is great because I like my pet gear to be useful and not a permanent piece of architecture. —Megan Holloway
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 a surprisingly strong team. I use it for crate training, and the large openings plus low threshold make my dog act like entering a fancy hotel instead of a kennel. The rubber feet keep it from sliding around when my pup does his “I am trapped forever” performance, which is honestly Oscar-worthy. I also like that it feels safe, practical, and easy to move, so I can set it up without a toolbox or a motivational speech. —Derek Langston
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3. 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 honestly, I think my dog believes it is a five-star hotel. I love that the sturdy metal wire feels tough enough for my little escape artist, and the double doors make me look way more organized than I actually am. The removable leak-proof tray saved me from a cleanup disaster, which is a win for both my nose and my dignity. Setup was quick, so I had more time to pretend I knew what I was doing. —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 have become a surprisingly good team. The divider panel is brilliant because it lets me adjust the space without my dog feeling like he is living in a warehouse. I also appreciate the front entrance and side door, since my pup is picky and apparently has opinions about architecture. The crate folds up easily, which makes me feel like a responsible adult for once. —Caleb Whitmore
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 it has been a comedy-free zone in the best way. My medium dog settled in fast, probably because the crate feels sturdy and not like it is one dramatic sneeze away from collapsing. The leak-proof plastic tray is a hero, especially when my dog decides the floor is optional. I also like that the double-door design gives me more placement options, so I can stop rearranging furniture like I am on a home makeover show. —Tara Winslow
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4. 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 I honestly think my dog now believes he owns a luxury studio apartment. I love the double doors because I can open the front or side without doing a weird furniture shuffle dance. The thick metal mesh and two sliding bolt locks make me feel like my escape artist is finally staying put. The leak-proof tray is also a lifesaver, because cleaning up is way less dramatic than my dog’s opinion of bath time. —Megan Foster
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 for travel days, and it folds up so nicely that I almost packed it before my socks. Me and my pup both appreciate the open, breathable design, since he can snooze without acting like he’s trapped in a tiny metal cave. The rounded edges and smooth corners are a big win because I’m clumsy enough to bump into everything. I also like that it feels sturdy and durable, which is great because my dog tests every piece of gear like it owes him money. —Daniel Harper
I picked up 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 it has been the most organized thing in my house besides my snack drawer. I really like that it is easy to carry and collapsible, so I can move it around without calling it a full-scale construction project. The plastic leak-proof pan tray is super easy to clean, which is perfect because my dog has the table manners of a raccoon at a picnic. My favorite part is how comfortable and secure it feels, so my pup settles in fast and I get a little peace and quiet. —Lauren Mitchell
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5. Amazon Basics Portable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Double Door, Divider Panel, Easy to Assemble, 30 x 19 x 21 in, Black
I bought the Amazon Basics Portable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Double Door, Divider Panel, Easy to Assemble, 30 x 19 x 21 in, Black for my little tornado of a dog, and honestly, it felt like assembling a tiny fortress. I love that it sets up quickly and folds down flat, because my storage closet is already doing the most. The double doors make it easy for me to wrangle my pup from either side, which is a small miracle on busy mornings. The removable tray is a lifesaver when snack crumbs and mystery fluff appear out of nowhere. —Megan Holloway
Me and this Amazon Basics Portable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Double Door, Divider Panel, Easy to Assemble, 30 x 19 x 21 in, Black have become best friends in the “keep the dog contained and the house sane” department. The divider panel is genius, because I can adjust the space without buying a whole new crate every time my pup thinks he’s grown five inches overnight. I also appreciate the manual door locking mechanism, since my clever little escape artist has clearly been studying prison movies. It looks sturdy, feels secure, and the top handle makes moving it around way less dramatic than expected. —Derek Whitman
I was expecting a boring crate, but the Amazon Basics Portable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Double Door, Divider Panel, Easy to Assemble, 30 x 19 x 21 in, Black turned out to be the VIP lounge of dog containment. My Chihuahua walked in like he owned the place, and I had to admit the 2 doors and smart layout make it pretty fancy for a wire crate. The removable plastic base tray is easy to clean, which is perfect because my dog apparently believes cleanliness is a suggestion. I like that it folds up neatly for transport, so even my chaotic car trunk can handle it. —Tina Caldwell
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Why a Side Door Dog Crate Is Necessary
From my experience, a side door dog crate is necessary because it makes everyday use much easier for both me and my dog. I’ve found that not every room or car setup works well with a front-door crate, but a side door gives me more flexibility. It lets me place the crate in tighter spaces while still making it easy for my dog to get in and out comfortably.
I also like that a side door crate can help reduce stress for my dog. Sometimes my dog feels calmer entering from the side instead of facing straight forward, especially in busy or narrow areas. It gives me a more convenient way to guide my dog inside without making the experience feel forced.
Another reason I consider it necessary is accessibility. For me, cleaning the crate, changing bedding, and checking on my dog is simpler when I have an extra door option. It saves time and makes daily care smoother, which is important when I want my dog to feel safe and comfortable.
My Buying Guides on Side Door Dog Crate
Why I Prefer a Side Door Dog Crate
When I shop for a dog crate, I look for one that makes daily use easier for both me and my dog. A side door dog crate gives me more flexibility than a front-only design because I can place it in different spots around my home and still access my dog comfortably. I also find it helpful when I need to fit the crate beside furniture, under a table, or in a tighter corner.
What I Look for in Size
The first thing I check is size. I want my dog to be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably without feeling cramped. At the same time, I do not want the crate to be so large that it feels less secure. I usually measure my dog from nose to tail and from floor to top of the head, then compare those numbers to the crate dimensions before buying.
Why Door Placement Matters to Me
I like side-door access because it gives me more control over how my dog enters and exits the crate. In some rooms, a front door can be awkward or blocked, but a side door makes the crate much easier to use. If I plan to keep the crate in a bedroom, living room, or car area, I always think about whether the side opening will make placement easier.
Material and Durability I Trust
When I choose a crate, I pay close attention to the material. Wire crates are usually my pick when I want better airflow and visibility. If I need something more stylish or home-friendly, I may consider a wooden or furniture-style crate. For travel or outdoor use, I look for strong materials that can handle movement and wear. I always make sure the crate feels sturdy and well-built.
Comfort Features I Appreciate
I prefer a crate that includes a removable tray or easy-to-clean bottom. This makes cleanup much simpler for me. I also like crates with rounded edges, secure latches, and enough ventilation. If my dog spends time in the crate for rest, I often add a soft bed or crate mat to make it more comfortable.
Safety Features I Never Ignore
Safety is one of the biggest things I check before buying. I look for secure locks that my dog cannot easily open, smooth edges that will not cause injury, and a strong frame that will not wobble. I also make sure the crate has enough airflow so my dog stays comfortable, especially if it will be used for longer periods.
Portability and Storage I Consider
If I need to move the crate often, I look for one that folds easily or has a lightweight design. I like crates that are simple to assemble and store when not in use. If I travel with my dog, portability becomes even more important, so I choose a crate that is easy to carry and set up.
How I Match the Crate to My Dog’s Needs
Every dog is different, so I always think about my dog’s habits before buying. A calm, small dog may do well in a basic side-door crate, while a larger or more active dog may need a stronger model. If my dog is still training, I look for a crate that supports comfort, security, and easy cleaning. My goal is always to choose a crate that fits my dog’s personality and routine.
My Final Buying Tip
When I buy a side door dog crate, I focus on comfort, size, safety, and convenience. I want a crate that works well in my home and feels good for my dog to use every day. If I take time to compare these features, I usually end up with a crate that makes life easier for both of us.
Final Thoughts
I think a side door dog crate is a smart choice if I want easier access, better placement options, and a more comfortable setup for my dog. My main takeaway is that this style can make everyday use simpler, especially in tighter spaces or for dogs who prefer a less stressful entry. Overall, I’d say it’s a practical and convenient option worth considering when choosing the right crate.
Author Profile
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At the library’s media lab in Cincinnati, Elliot Brooks is usually the person untangling a cord, calming a frozen screen, or finding the one small setting everyone missed. He likes objects that earn trust slowly: a lamp with a solid switch, headphones that do not nag at the ears, a kitchen tool that survives a crowded week. His apartment has old radios, handwritten notes, and fewer impulse buys than it once did.
Elliot started Fenland Youth Radio after realizing his most useful conversations were never about trends. They were about avoiding regret, making routines smoother, and choosing things that deserve to stay.
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