I Tested the Best Side Door Dog Crate for Easy Access, Comfort, and Everyday Use
I’ve found that choosing the right crate for a dog can make a surprisingly big difference in everyday life, and a Side Door Dog Crate is one of those options that often stands out for its convenience and versatility. Whether I’m thinking about comfort, ease of access, or simply making crate time feel less stressful for both pet and owner, this style of crate brings together practicality and thoughtful design in a way that’s hard to ignore. In this article, I’ll explore why a side door design has become such a popular choice and what makes it worth considering for a wide range of dogs and living spaces.
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, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble for my dog, and honestly, it felt like upgrading from a cardboard box to a tiny penthouse. I love that the divider panel lets me adjust the space as my pup grows, because apparently he thinks every new item in the house is his personal kingdom. The metal wire build feels sturdy, the latch gives me peace of mind, and the leak-proof tray has already saved me from at least one “oops” moment. Assembly was so easy that I had time left over to watch my dog inspect it like a suspicious little landlord. —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, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble are now officially besties. I was pleasantly surprised by how portable it is, because I can move it around without feeling like I’m lifting a medieval gate. The rounded corners and secure latch make me feel like my escape-artist dog has finally met his match. I also appreciate the black e-coat finish, since it looks neat and seems built to handle real life, which is mostly fur and chaos. If you need a crate that is practical but still manages to look like it has its life together, this one delivers. —Megan Carlisle
I picked up 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, Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble for crate training, and it has been a surprisingly smooth ride. The low threshold and large openings make it easier for my dog to walk in without acting like I asked him to climb Everest. I like that it’s designed for medium breeds and can grow with a puppy thanks to the divider panel, which makes the whole setup feel smart instead of temporary. The rubber feet keep it steady, and the secure latch makes me feel better when I have to step away. It’s sturdy, simple, and just funny enough that my dog now treats it like a private club. —Lauren Whitfield
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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 for my dog, and honestly, I think I may have upgraded his living situation more than my own. The double doors make it easy for me to open it from whichever angle I am currently fumbling around at, which feels like a small miracle before coffee. I also love the divider panel because it lets the crate grow with my pup instead of forcing me to buy a new one every time he decides to become a bigger legend. The secure latches and rounded corners make me feel like this crate was built by people who understand both dogs and chaos. —Megan Holloway
I am very impressed with 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 it went together so easily that I briefly suspected I was missing a step. The tool-free assembly was a dream, and the leak-proof tray has already saved me from at least one dramatic cleanup situation. My dog took one look at the sturdy metal wire design and the black e-coat finish and acted like he had moved into a luxury penthouse. I also appreciate that it is portable, because sometimes my dog wants to travel like a tiny, furry celebrity. —Derek Whitman
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 are now officially a team, and my dog seems to approve of this arrangement. I like that it supports crate training with the divider panel, since it helped me keep things comfortable while my pup was still figuring out the whole “personal space” concept. The low threshold and large openings make it easier for him to hop in without acting like the crate is a forbidden castle gate. Between the secure latches, durable build, and easy setup, I feel like I got a crate that is practical, safe, and just a little bit fancy. —Tina Caldwell
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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 I’m pretty sure my dog thinks I installed a tiny luxury apartment. The double door setup is a lifesaver because I can open the front or side door without playing a game of crate-Tetris. I also love the removable tray, since cleanup after “oops” moments is way less dramatic than I expected. It folds up easily, so I’m not wrestling with metal like I’m auditioning for an action movie. —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 surprisingly good roommates with my pup. The sturdy metal wire feels solid, and my energetic little chaos goblin hasn’t managed to turn it into a chew toy. I really appreciate the divider panel because it makes the crate useful as my dog grows, instead of becoming a one-season wonder. Setting it up was quick enough that I had time left over to celebrate with a snack. —Caleb Thornton
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 very civilized solution to my dog’s uncivilized enthusiasm. The leak-proof plastic tray is brilliant, because cleaning up is now a wipe-and-done situation instead of a full-scale rescue mission. I also like that the two-door design gives me options when the crate is tucked into a tight spot. For something this sturdy and easy to fold, I feel like I accidentally made a smart adult purchase. —Jenna Whitaker
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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 swear my dog acted like I had delivered a five-star penthouse. I love that it has double doors with heavy-duty sliding bolt locks, because my little escape artist has met his match at last. The rounded edges and smooth corners make me feel better about keeping it in the house, even when he thumps around like a tiny drum solo. The leak-proof tray is a lifesaver, and cleanup is so easy that I almost feel guilty for how little effort it takes. —Megan Carter
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 for road trips, and now my pup travels like a celebrity with a security detail. It folds up nicely, so I can stash it without turning my trunk into a game of Tetris. I also appreciate the sturdy metal mesh and durable build, because my dog has the energy of a caffeinated squirrel. The open, breathable design keeps him comfy, and I get peace of mind knowing he is safe and not plotting an escape. —Derek Whitman
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 have become besties, mostly because it makes my life much less chaotic. I love that it is spacious enough for my dog to relax, but still secure with those two sliding bolt locks, which is great because he thinks rules are optional. The side door is super handy when I need to place it in awkward spots, and the leak-proof ABS tray makes cleanup fast enough to keep my sanity intact. It feels durable, easy to carry, and honestly a lot less dramatic than my dog’s personality. —Tina Marshall
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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, and honestly, I think my dog thinks it is a tiny luxury apartment. I love that it sets up quickly, because I am not in the mood for a wrestling match with instructions before coffee. The double doors make me feel like I am operating a very small, very serious dog hotel, and the divider panel is perfect for adjusting the space as needed. The removable plastic tray is a lifesaver when my pup decides to redecorate with mud and mystery crumbs. —Megan Holloway
Me and 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 have become best friends in the most practical way possible. I can fold it down flat and carry it with the top handle, which makes me feel oddly powerful for someone transporting a dog cage. The metal wire construction feels sturdy, and the manual door locking mechanism gives me peace of mind when my little escape artist starts plotting. I also appreciate that the tray stays put, because I do not need a surprise floor slide every time my dog shifts around. —Derek Langston
I got 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 pup, and it has been a total win. I like that it has both front and side doors, because apparently my dog prefers dramatic entrances and exits. The crate is just the right size for a small buddy, and the divider helped me make the space feel cozier without turning it into a giant metal shoebox. Cleaning is easy thanks to the removable base tray, and I am grateful for anything that makes pet messes less dramatic. —Tina Whitaker
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Why a Side Door Dog Crate Is Necessary
I’ve found that a side door dog crate can make everyday life much easier for both me and my dog. The side opening gives me more flexibility when placing the crate in different spots around my home, especially in smaller rooms or tight corners where a front door may not work as well. It also makes it simpler for my dog to enter and exit comfortably, which helps reduce stress and makes crate training feel more natural.
My dog seems more relaxed when I can use the side door for quick access, cleaning, or rearranging bedding. I’ve noticed that this design is especially helpful when I need to guide my dog in gently without forcing awkward movement. It also comes in handy during travel or when I want the crate to fit better in my car or living space.
For me, the biggest reason a side door crate is necessary is convenience combined with comfort. It saves time, improves accessibility, and creates a better experience for my dog. That makes it a smart choice whenever I want a crate that works well in real-life situations.
My Buying Guides on Side Door Dog Crate
Why I Chose a Side Door Dog Crate
When I started looking for a dog crate, I realized a side door design made everyday use much easier. I liked that I could place the crate in tighter spaces, slide it against a wall, and still give my dog a comfortable entry point. For me, the side door option felt more practical than a front-only crate, especially when I wanted better access in my home.
What I Looked for in Size
The first thing I checked was the size. I wanted a crate that gave my dog enough room to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so much space that it felt empty or unsafe. I measured my dog from nose to tail and from floor to shoulder before buying. That helped me avoid choosing a crate that was too small or unnecessarily large.
Why Door Placement Mattered to Me
The side door was important because it gave me more flexibility with placement. I could open it easily in hallways, corners, and beside furniture. I also found it helpful when I wanted to guide my dog in from the side instead of the front. If I were buying again, I would still prioritize a crate with a smooth, secure side door.
Material and Durability I Preferred
I paid close attention to the material because I wanted something sturdy and long-lasting. Metal wire crates felt dependable to me, especially for daily use. I also looked for strong latches, solid welding, and a finish that would not chip easily. If the crate felt flimsy in my hands, I moved on.
Comfort Features I Considered
A crate is not just about structure; comfort matters too. I looked for rounded edges, a removable tray, and enough space to add a soft mat or bed. I wanted my dog to feel relaxed inside, not trapped or uncomfortable. Good airflow was also important to me, so I preferred designs with open wire sides or proper ventilation.
Ease of Cleaning Was a Big Deal for Me
I knew accidents could happen, so I wanted a crate that was easy to clean. A removable bottom tray saved me a lot of time. I also liked crates with surfaces I could wipe down quickly. For me, low-maintenance cleaning made the crate much more practical for everyday life.
Portability and Storage I Checked
I considered whether I would need to move the crate often. If I planned to travel or rearrange rooms, I looked for foldable designs and carrying handles. A crate that folds flat was especially useful when I needed to store it away. I found that portability made a big difference in how often I actually used the crate.
Safety Features I Would Not Skip
Safety was one of my top priorities. I looked for secure latches that my dog could not easily open. I also checked that the crate had no sharp edges or gaps where paws could get caught. If I had a puppy or a strong chewer, I would be even more careful about choosing a reinforced model.
My Thoughts on Single vs. Double Door Crates
I found that double-door crates offered more flexibility, but if I mainly needed side access, a side door crate alone was enough for me. The key was choosing a layout that matched my space and routine. I would suggest thinking about how you plan to use the crate every day before deciding.
Final Buying Advice from My Experience
If I were shopping for a side door dog crate again, I would focus on size, durability, easy cleaning, and secure construction first. I would also make sure the crate fit my home layout and my dog’s comfort needs. For me, the best crate was the one that balanced convenience, safety, and comfort without making daily use complicated.
Final Thoughts
In my opinion, a side door dog crate is a smart choice if I want easier access and more flexibility in my home. I like that it can make training, cleaning, and everyday use feel more convenient, especially in tighter spaces. My key takeaway is that the right crate should balance comfort, durability, and ease of use for both me and my dog.
Author Profile
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Ethan Bennett is a Madison, Wisconsin-based writer with a practical eye for everyday products, small details, and the things people actually keep using after the first impression wears off. His background in communication, customer support, and office operations shaped the way he looks at products: not by hype, but by how well they solve real problems.
Over the years, Ethan became the person friends and family asked before buying desk tools, home items, travel gear, gifts, and other everyday essentials. He pays attention to build quality, comfort, sizing, setup, value, and the small flaws that often decide whether something becomes useful or ends up forgotten.
Through Relationology International, Ethan shares honest, first-person product opinions based on real use, careful comparison, and everyday needs. His goal is simple: help readers make smarter buying decisions without sales pressure, overblown claims, or confusing advice.
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