What are the best crates for pit bulls?
What size should I get for my dog?
Do I need to buy a pit bull puppy crate first and upgrade later?
We’ll dive into all of these questions and find the answers below, so let’s get started!
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Table of Contents
Our Top Pick
If you want to skip ahead and grab my top pick, go with the AmazonBasics model, but only if you have a pit that likes the crate.
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How to choose the best crate for your pit bull
So, here’s the thing about finding the best crate for pit bulls- it’s not really as cut and dry as, say, the best Husky crate.
Since “pit bull” is a catchall name for multiple different types of dogs, I can’t even definitively tell you what size to get.
That said, I’ll try to break it down a bit for you based on the measurements of the most common types of pits.
Then, we’ll talk about whether you really need an indestructible crate before I give you my top five picks.
What is the right dog crate size for pit bull?
Pits can range anywhere from around 30 lbs all the way up to 60+ and stand anywhere between 17-21″ tall.
Depending on your pit’s size, you’ll likely either need a 30″ or a 36″ crate. Some pit mixes may even be more comfy in a 42″ model.
I highly recommend watching the video below to learn how to pick the right crate size.
As far as the best crates for pit bull puppies goes, honestly, I’d just get the full-size crate right off the bat and save yourself some cash.
Most crates come with dividers, so you can make it smaller at first, then open it up for your adult pit.
Do I need an indestructible dog crate?
There’s this common misconception that pits will destroy anything but the toughest Fort Knox of dog crates.
That’s simply not true. Well, no more true than it is with any strong dog breed.
I’ve known a lot of pit bulls throughout my life. Not a single one destroyed their crate in a fit of rage, I assure you.
In fact, they actually loved their little den and viewed it as a sanctuary.
Of course, if your pit does happen to hate being penned up, then yeah, you’ll want to go with a super tough crate.
For the most part, though, if you focus on creating a comfortable den & train your pit to love his personal space, he’ll happily stay put
It’s common sense, really. If I was locked in a room that made me feel scared or uncomfortable, I’d break down the door to escape, too!
Okay, now that we have an (albeit vague) idea of what to look for in a crate, let’s check out my top five picks (including two super tough options, just in case you need one).
Top 5 Best Crates for Pit Bulls
To keep things simple and make price comparisons easier for you, I’ve chosen the 36″ model for all of the crates below.
Remember, though, you may need a 30″ or even a 42″ depending on your pit’s size.
Take a look at the table for a quick glance, then read on for more details.
1. AmazonBasics Single-Door 36″ Crate
With a 4.5 star rating across over 31,000 reviews, it’s safe to say that the AmazonBasics crate one of the most beloved options among shoppers.
But is it the best one for pits? Let’s look at the pros and cons to find out.
Features & Pros
- Multiple sizes, including a 30″ and a 42″ model
- Single door or double door options
- Relatively sturdy metal.
- Folds down almost flat
- Comes with a divider so you can downsize it for puppies
Cons
- Slider bolt lock is fairly easy for smart pits to open
- A challenge to assemble (for me, anyway)
- WILL NOT hold a pit that’s determined to escape.
RecommendationÂ
This is not the best option if your pit is an escape artist or totally despises his crate.
It’s strong enough for mellow dogs, but definitely not a pit bull proof crate by a long shot if that pit is determined to get loose.
It is a fantastic option for well-trained dogs who view their crate as a personal little den, though.
2. MidWest Homes for Pets Dog Crate
Another 4.5-star option with just a smidge fewer reviews than the AmazonBasics above, MidWest Homes is pretty much the name in dog crates.
Features & Pros
- Multiple sizes, including a 30″ and a 42″ model
- Comes in both single or double door models
- Made with strong metal
- Roller feet on the bottom to protect your floor
- Folds for storage
- 1 year warranty
- Includes free divider panel
Cons
- Not strong enough for determined-to-escape pits
- The lock is even less secure than AmazonBasics’
- A few complaints about sharp edges (a defect, but you need to watch out for it)
RecommendationÂ
While the vast majority of owners love this crate, there are some alarming issues to watch out for.
Quite a few of the 1-star reviewers pointed out the sharp edges and corners. This is a defect, not a standard.
You’ll want to run your hands over the entire thing carefully before using it. As a matter of fact, do that regardless of which crate you get!
Again, this isn’t good for pits who hate the crate, but it’s a solid choice for those who are happy to hang in their sanctuary.
- Newly enhanced with added security features to keep your pet safe | Slide-bolt door latches now feature patented Paw Block and locking tips to create a safer, more secure home for your pet
- iCrate double door dog crate measures 35.6L x 21.9 x 24.5 inches and is suitable for intermediate dog breeds with an adult weight of 40 to 70 pounds. If your dog’s weight or measurements are on the higher side for this crate, we recommend buying the next crate size up
- Dog crate includes a divider panel, durable & leak-proof plastic pan, protective rubber feet, carrying handle, and customer support team based in Indiana
- Easy to assemble & portable | Dog crate sets up in seconds with no tools required and conveniently folds flat for travel
- Durable & strong, quality construction creates a secure place for your dog to fulfill their natural instinct to den. Proper ventilation, large door openings with low thresholds, and rounded corner clips make iCrate a safer crate experience for your dog
Either of these two options work perfect for mellow dogs.
I could keep listing out similar crates, but there’s really nothing to differentiate one from the next.
So, for now, I’m going to switch gears and assume that you really do need a heavy duty dog crate for a heavy duty pit!
These next three aren’t pretty, but they’re strong!
3. LUCKUP HEAVY DUTY DOG CRATE
LUCKUP doesn’t have a 36″ option, so we’ll be looking at their smallest model, the 38-incher.
This one earns 4 stars among its 289-ish ratings, making it one of the best tough dog crates on Amazon.
Features & Pros
- Strong and durable rust-resistant steel construction
- Nontoxic finish (no crate should be toxic, though!)
- Two locks with safety buckles
- Top opens up, too
- It’s on wheels
Cons
- More like a cage than a crate
- Some complaints about weak latches
- Pricey (although not the priciest)
RecommendationÂ
While the LUCKUP looks super strong, there are a few complaints that very determined dogs managed to escape.
I’d say it’s a good option for pits who don’t love the crate, but also aren’t going to totally spazz out in one.
Basically, he’ll paw and chew at the door a bit, but otherwise won’t really put his whole heart into getting loose.
- Heavy duty frame: made from industrial corrosion-resistant steel, indestructible and durable, hard to be damaged, nontoxic finished surface keep your dog health, suitable for most medium and large dogs, two locks with the safety buckles to prevent the high anxiety dogs from opening the door and escaping.
- Double door & locking caster design: The front door is suitable for pet in and out for you interacting with your dog. 360 degree rotated locking casters can help you to move crate anywhere easily and lock the wheels to keep the crate in place.
- Easy to assemble:All hardware pack included,just need to fit it with four wheels and eight screw bolts, locks were pre-assembled,Just takes 3-5 minutes to complete.
- Easy to clean:Removable (slide-out) plastic tray helps you to catch the fallen dog food and excrement,and allows you to wipe and clean easily.
- Overall Dimensions: 37.5"L X 25.5"W X 32"H; Internal height of the dog cage : 27"H; Metal pipe spacing:2"; Metal"slat-like" floor spacing:1" Color: Black.
4. ProSelect Empire Dog Cage
Another durable option, the ProSelect has a 4.5 star rating across just over 850 reviews.
Features & Pros
- Made with 20-Gauge Steel and reinforced 0.5-inch diameter steel tubes
- Interior dimensions on the medium is just under 36″
- Larger size available, too
- Grated floor with removable tray
- Removable casters on the bottom for rolling it
- Welded a stress points
- Strong dual latches on the door
Cons
- Quite pricey
- Not escape-proof (smart dogs can open the latches)
- Some complaints about customer service
RecommendationÂ
Another one that’s more cage than crate, I do kind of like the overall appearance of this one a bit more than the other two strong crates here.
I feel like it has a more crate-like appearance, albeit a crate with stronger bars.
There are a few complaints about how smart dogs can figure out the latches, so be warned.
I’ve also read a few complaints about less than stellar customer service, which can cause problems if you have to return it.
That said, it’s stronger than the LUCKUP, so if you have the cash and need a super strong crate, it’s a good choice.
- Dimensions: 33.75" H x 37" W x 25.13" L | Bar Spacing: 2.25''. Inside dimensions-35¾ L x 23½ W x 24½ H inches
- 20-Gauge Steel Cage – This ProSelect Empire dog cage is extremely strong with reinforced 0.5-inch diameter steel tubes and 20-gauge steel
- Medium-Sized Cage – (26 - 40 lbs)
- Floor Grate With Tray – Cleanup is easy with this ProSelect dog cage because of its grated floor with tray
- Removable Casters – You can attach casters to the bottom of the cage to allow for easily rolling the cage to other locations or leave the casters off for added stability.Durable Dog Cage – The Empire cage will stand up to the toughest abuse from the largest dogs with strong latches and thick steel construction
5. Zinger Winger Dog Crate
I’ll be honest, I like nothing about the Zinger except for one thing- it’s a virtually indestructible dog crate.
Let’s look at the pros and cons to decide if that’s enough to make it worth the investment (and an investment it is!).
Features & Pros
- Zinger Winger is a trusted name in super tough dog crates.
- Made with aircraft grade aluminum
- Reinforced door with extra bar welds.
- Secondary keyed lock on the door.
- Door is reversible
- Despite the appearance, it’s fully vented on all sides
Cons
- It’s expensive (holy cow, is it expensive!)
- Style makes it look like you’re transporting Hannibal Lector!
- No dimensions on Amazon listing (I had to look elsewhere for this pertinent information)
- No reviews on Amazon (again, I had to look elsewhere).
RecommendationÂ
I don’t know a whole lot about this brand personally.
I do know owners of pits who “hate the crate” that say it’s as close to escape proof as you can get without encasing your dog in concrete.
Honestly, though, with a $1K+ price tag, I think I’d exhaust all other options (possibly including that concrete one) before investing in the Zinger.
They do have different options on their website, so you may actually want to buy this one directly through the brand.
- Aluminum dog crates offer incredible strength at one third the weight of steel, light enough for
- A flush mounted slam latch which is keyed for added security while you are away from the crate. Rest
- Crate is fully vented down each side and along the back wall to provide maximum comfort for your dog.
- All crates can be coupled side by side or stacked atop one another to form multiple dog crate systems
- Crates are finished in a durable silver hammertone powder coat both inside and out. The secret to
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