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10 Best Dog Crates For Separation Anxiety in 2024 – Reviews & Guide

Nicole Cosgrove Profile Picture

By Nicole Cosgrove

Golden retriever puppy in a crate

Nothing is more heart-wrenching than looking at those sad puppy eyes as you walk out the door without a leash. The situation is even worse when howling and crying accompany your walk to the car. Separation anxiety is a real issue for many pups and their owners.

Anxiety can cause your dog to bark excessively and tear up the furniture. That’s where a great dog crate comes in, serving as your pup’s haven.

As you can probably guess, there are an intimidating number of options available.  To help, we have reviews of the 10 best dog crates for separation anxiety. We will provide the stats on size, construction, durability, and all the extra features that matter. Browse the list below and check out the buyer’s guide at the end!

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A Glance at our Favorite Choices in 2024:

Rating Image Product Details
Best Overall
Winner
LUCKUP Heavy Duty LUCKUP Heavy Duty
  • Strong metal frame
  • Narrow bottom slats
  • Two steel locks
  • Best Value
    Second place
    Frisco Soft-Sided Frisco Soft-Sided
  • Warm and inviting
  • Sturdy steel frame
  • Lightweight and collapsible
  • Premium Choice
    Third place
    Sliverylake Double Door Sliverylake Double Door
  • Narrow slate bottom
  • Slide-out tray
  • Collapses down
  • unipaws End Table unipaws End Table
  • Bars are chew-proof
  • Attractive option
  • Built-in cushion at the base
  • ProSelect Empire ProSelect Empire
  • Steel frame and tubing
  • Detachable locking wheels
  • Sliding tray
  • The 10 Best Dog Crates For Separation Anxiety:

    1. LUCKUP Heavy Duty Dog Crate – Best Overall

    LUCKUP

    Check Price on Chewy

    The number one spot on our list goes to this durable metal crate that comes in either silver or black. The LUCKUP crate has a top door so you can easily interact with your pup and a wide front door, making it easy for your dog to enter and exit.

    The strong bottom grates are narrow, so you don’t have to worry about paws catching or getting stuck. It also has a sliding bottom tray for catching food and other “debris” that could fall through and two solid steel locks that are very durable.

    You can use this crate indoors or outdoors since the spray-painted exterior is rust-resistant. The crate is non-toxic, folds down easily for storage, and can be assembled in 3 to 5 minutes. Plus, it comes with four detachable locking wheels that rotate 360 degrees. Overall, the LUCKUP is the best crate for separation anxiety.

    Pros
    • Strong metal frame
    • Narrow bottom slats
    • Two doors
    • Two steel locks
    • Locking wheels
    • Sliding tray
    Cons
    • Your pup may never want to come out!

    2. Frisco Indoor & Outdoor 3-Door Soft Dog Crate — Best Value

    Frisco Soft-Sided Dog Crate

    The problem with using many of the top-selling crates to treat separation anxiety is that the manufacturers place a premium on sturdiness rather than making it seem like an inviting place to sleep. That’s not an issue with the Frisco 3-Door Collapsible, however.

    This crate is soft-sided, making it warm and inviting. Better yet, since it’s covered by fabric, you can make the inside incredibly dark. That makes it feel like a cave, which is wonderfully soothing for stressed dogs. However, that doesn’t mean that it’s flimsy. The fabric covers up a sturdy steel frame, ensuring your dog won’t crush it if they accidentally move the wrong way.

    It’s lightweight and collapsible and ideal for travel. If your dog doesn’t like new places, and you don’t like leaving your dog behind, the Frisco 3-Door can provide a welcome reminder of home.

    You can also zip your pet inside for extra security. The zippers have locking clips to keep them closed, so your pup won’t escape at an inopportune moment. Best of all, it’s reasonably priced. In fact, it’s our pick for the best dog crate for separation anxiety for the money.

    The Frisco 3-Door Collapsible is not quite perfect, however. A heavy chewer can destroy the fabric in a few hours, and while the fabric is washable, it also traps odors. However, you can’t ask for much more from a crate in this price range.

    Pros
    • Warm and inviting
    • Can make it extremely dark
    • Sturdy steel frame
    • Lightweight and collapsible
    • Good value for the price
    Cons
    • Heavy chewers can destroy fabric
    • Tends to trap odors

    3. Sliverylake Dog Cage Crate – Best Premium

    Sliverylake

    To have a diverse selection that will suit everyone’s needs, our second choice is a more affordable option. This model also has a top and front door for easy access. It comes in three sizes, and you can choose between brown and silver colors.

    This sturdy little option has a steel frame that is resistant to deformation. The collapsible frame is also equipped with locking wheels, though they do not have a 360-degree radius. The Sliverylake can be assembled quickly and easily, and the bottom grate and tray slide out for easy cleaning.

    The bottom grate also features narrow-spaced slates to keep all furry toes intact. The 61.2-pound weight is average, as well. The lock is one aspect of this crate that keeps it from the top spot. It is not as secure as our top pick.

    Pros
    • Top and front door
    • Steel frame
    • Locking wheel
    • Slide-out tray
    • Narrow slate bottom
    • Collapses down
    Cons
    • Locks are not as heavy-duty

    4. unipaws Pet Crate End Table With Cushion

    Unipaws End Table

    You don’t have to sacrifice the elegance of your décor to keep your dog happy, thanks to the unipaws End Table. This crate blends right in with the rest of your furniture while also providing your dog with a comfy space to hide out. There’s a built-in cushion at its base, giving your dog a safe space to rest, and the bars on the outside are chew-proof. It combines security and luxury without feeling intimidating.

    It’s also well-ventilated with plenty of sightlines, so your dog will have a clear view of everything happening around them. That makes it ideal for having company over, as you can put your pet in the cage while allowing them to feel like part of the conversation.

    The rear of the unit isn’t nearly as secure as the rest of it. It’s made with a cheap particle board cutout, so you’ll have to place it against something secure, like a wall. It’s only available in one color, so we hope it matches your existing furniture. Assembly is a pain as well. Overall, the unipaws End Table is an attractive, unorthodox option that your dog and your company should appreciate.

    Pros
    • Attractive option
    • Built-in cushion at the base
    • Bars are chew-proof
    • Offers plenty of sightlines
    Cons
    • Rear of unit isn’t secure
    • Only available in one color
    • Difficult to assemble

    5. ProSelect 37 Empire Dog Crate

    ProSelect

    Moving onto the flip side of the option above, this next pick is our premium choice. It features 20-gauge steel construction with reinforced 0.5-inch diameter steel tubes for extra durability. The black frame comes in medium or large sizes, so it is not recommended for smaller pups.

    Keeping this more costly unit out of the top spot is the fact that it only has front door access. On the other hand, it has removable locking wheels, a sliding bottom tray, and dual push-locking latches that are impossible to open even with your pup’s full force.

    Beyond that, the crate is a little heavier than the option above, but it is still not bad at approximately 75 pounds. The only other drawback that we can detect is the bottom grate slates are slightly wider, but if you line the bottom, there should not be a problem.

    Pros
    • Steel frame and tubing
    • Durable
    • Strong locks
    • Detachable locking wheels
    • Sliding tray
    Cons
    • Front door only
    • Slighter wider bottom slats

    Another useful product: Calming dog treats


    6. MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Collapsible

    MidWest iCrate Fold Wire Crate

    The MidWest iCrate is one of the easiest crates to set up, so you can use it anywhere, even when you’re on the road. It has two doors, making entry and exit a breeze for a scared or stubborn pup. This also makes it easy for you to get the dog in and out of a car, allowing you to transport nervous animals without issue.

    The plastic pan at the bottom is a cinch to clean if your dog has an accident. It also has raised edges to keep liquids from spilling onto your carpet. It’s made to roll around on the ground, but the casters didn’t get the memo since it’s a beast to move (especially on the carpet). It runs small, too, so it’s not the best choice for larger breeds.

    The worst thing about it is that the latches aren’t secure. It only takes a little bit of force for your dog to bust free. As long as your pup never realizes that, you should be okay, but you’ll need a new crate if they figure it out.

    It’s also prone to rusting, but given how inexpensive it is, you shouldn’t expect it to last forever. The MidWest iCrate is a good, cheap option that can get the job done but don’t expect it to perform nearly as well as its pricier counterparts.

    Pros
    • Simple to set up
    • Two doors for accessible entry
    • Easy-to-clean plastic pan catches liquids
    Cons
    • Hard to move on carpet
    • Latches can be busted open
    • Prone to rusting
    • Not ideal for larger dogs

    7. ITORI Heavy Duty

    ITORI

    The ITORI is an eco-friendly, rust-resistant crate with two anti-escape locks on the front door. It also has a top door, but the lock is not nearly as durable as the two on the front door. The frame, other the other hand, is steel with reinforced tubes. You can choose from a back or silver finish and a 42 or 48-inch size.

    Keep in mind that this model is recommended for medium/large breeds. It has a sliding tray for easy cleaning, and the four wheels can be locked on two sides. However, the wheels do not turn easily, and moving the 83-pound cage can be tough.

    Other than that, the assembly can be a bit harder than other brands, and you will need to line the coss bottom grate with something to keep your pup’s paws safe. All in all, it is a good, non-toxic option.

    Pros
    • Steel durable frame
    • Eco-friendly and non-toxic
    • Two doors
    • Secure front door locks
    Cons
    • Harder to assemble
    • Weaker top door locks
    • Heavy metal sliding tray

    8. Precision Pet Products 4-Door Collapsible

    Precision Pet Products 4-Door Crate

    While it’s designed for traveling, this model from Precision Pet Products can also come in handy for stopping separation anxiety. However, it’s not quite durable enough for long-term use. It’s easy to collapse when you’re not using it, and it becomes quite small when folded. The compact size also makes it possible to keep it in your car without sacrificing too much space.

    It’s water-resistant, ensuring that accidents won’t damage the fabric. There are also storage pockets in the back that can come in handy. The zippers are poor quality and won’t last long. You could say the same for the fabric, especially if you have a heavy chewer on your hands (or a dog that needs a nail trim).

    Unfortunately, even the larger sizes are too small for some dogs. Your dog won’t be able to stand up in it, and older pups or those suffering from arthritis may struggle to enter and exit.

    It can get fairly warm inside as well, so it’s probably not best for users without air conditioning. This carrier from Precision Pets certainly has its charms, but it also has too many flaws for us to consider ranking it any higher on this list.

    Pros
    • Easy to collapse and store
    • Water-resistant
    Cons
    • Poor-quality zippers
    • Fabric won’t withstand a heavy chewer
    • Not ideal for old or arthritic dogs
    • Gets warm inside

    9. JY QAQA Pet Heavy Duty Dog Crate

    JY QAQA

    The JY QAQA dog crate is made of durable steel and comes with four detachable wheels and two locking mechanisms to keep the cage in place. There are two doors at the top and front, but both locks are not secure. Also, the top door is very narrow. You cannot get your pup into the unit from that angle.

    However, the JY QAQA has a variety of sizes that will accommodate most size dogs. They range from 36 to 48 inches. However, it is not recommended for larger pups. Also, be aware that this model will require two people to assemble it, and although it is advertised to be rust-resistant, you should not use it outside.

    Besides those issues, the JY QAQA is another model that will require a bottom lining to keep your pet from getting their paws stuck. Also, though you can fold the crate down, it is not as easy as others. Finally, you will need a strong back for the 90-pound weight.

    Pros
    • Durable steel frame
    • Detachable locking wheel
    Cons
    • Not for big dogs
    • Locks are not secure
    • Top door is too small
    • Hard to assemble and fold down
    • Wide bottom slat gaps

    10. PARPET Heavy Duty Empire Dog Crate

    PARPET EV-301

    The last option on our list is the PARPET dog crate. The 20-gage steel is not very durable for a heavy-duty crate, and the sliding locks are easy to open from the inside. If your pup is good at escaping, they will figure out the locks quickly.

    The PARPET crate has four wheels that rotate 360 degrees and all four locks to keep the unit in place. Unfortunately, it only has one narrow front door and is difficult to assemble. Again, you will need two people, plus the bolts fall out easily with average movement from the dog.

    Also, you only have two options regarding the size, and it has a wide gap on the bottom grate, almost to the point your dog will be standing on the sliding tray. To add more bad news, the tray is steel and very heavy. Overall, the PARPET is our least favorite option, and you will have better luck with any of the previous models.

    Pros
    • Four locking wheels
    Cons
    • Not durable
    • Weak locks
    • Heavy sliding tray
    • Difficult to put together
    • Model falls apart
    • Wide bottom slat gaps

    Buyer’s Guide

    There are several aspects to consider when purchasing a dog crate for a pooch with high anxiety. The first factor to note is that separation anxiety for dogs can be very stressful and have physical side effects. A dog will do their best to get out of their crate and chew on anything available to relieve the stress. To keep your pal safe, ensure they are well-maintained in a comfortable and secure crate.

    Size

    To determine which size is ideal for your dog, measure your dog from the tip of the nose to the tip of the tail and then from the top of the nose down to the floor. Once you have those measurements, add three to four inches to the measurement to get the correct crate size. You want your pup to turn around in the space and stretch out comfortably.

    Durability

    Other factors you want to consider are the durability of the frame, the availability of the doors, and cleaning. Steel is the best type of material for these cages. It is very durable, and your pet cannot escape easily. If you have a smaller or older dog, you can also go for an aluminum model or another type of material.

    Doors

    Most models have a top door and a front door. A top door is great for interacting with your pet without them trying to escape. Regarding the front door, you want to ensure your puppy can easily walk in without hitting their back or crouching down. If they have to do so, it can make your dog feel like they are in an enclosed space. It will also make stress worse.

    a dog crate with toys
    Credit: Vellicos, Shutterstock

    Cleaning

    As we all know, your furry friend may have an accident from time to time. Also, if you are going to be away from home for an extended time, you may want to leave food and water in the crate. Most models come with a sliding tray that is easy to clean. Metal trays can be heavy and may not be suitable for every owner.

    Grate Design

    Finally, you want to inspect the bottom grate of the cage. The bottom slats that have more space between them will allow your pup to get their toes or paws stuck in the grate. This can cause a lot of harm and stress for your animal. Make sure that the slats are slim, or you can use a mat and a bed to ensure that no damage is done.

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    Final Verdict:

    Although our buyer’s guide covered the basics, several other factors to consider when purchasing a dog crate include ventilation, assembly, locking wheels, and secure latches. If you are still unsure which brand is best for you, go with our number one choice, the LUCKUP Heavy Duty Dog Crate. If you want a more affordable option, try the Frisco 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate.

    We hope this article will help you choose the best dog crate that will help with your dog’s separation anxiety.

    See Also:


    Featured Image Credit By: Parilov, Shutterstock

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