Looking for a dog crate with an Up & Away door design that saves space and stays secure? This guide highlights five top MidWest Homes for Pets crates featuring the patented Up & Away mechanism or similar space-saving doors. The selections are tailored for common buyer needs: extra-large breeds, medium-to-large dogs, and compact rooms. Each option balances ease of use, portability, and safety, helping you choose the best fit for your living space and your dog’s size.
The following quick-reference table compares key traits to help you decide at a glance. For each product, you’ll find the best-suited dog size, door design, portability features, and a note on any limitations.
| Product | Best For | Door Type | Key Benefit | Limitations to Consider |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MidWest Large Ovation 42″ | Large dogs (71-90 lbs) | Up & Away door on top | Space-saving, flat fold for storage | Upper size near limit may need larger model |
| MidWest Medium Ovation 30″ | Medium dogs (21-40 lbs) | Up & Away door on top | Compact and portable | Not ideal for very large breeds |
| MidWest iCrate 36″ (Medium-Large) | Medium to large dogs (41-70 lbs) | Single door (with optional features) | Durable construction, secure latches | Requires careful sizing for extreme comfort |
| MidWest Ovation 36″ Intermediate | Medium to large breeds (41-70 lbs) | Up & Away door on top | Space-saving and versatile in small rooms | Size may feel tight for the upper end of range |
| MidWest iCrate 48″ Extra-Large | Large to giant breeds (90-110 lbs) | Single door with secure latches | Great for roomier comfort and durability | Heavier and less portable due to size |
MidWest Large Ovation 42-Inch Door Crate
Best for: Large breeds nearing the upper 90-pound range or dogs that benefit from a roomy interior. This crate uses the patented Up & Away door to store the door above the crate, freeing floor space in tight rooms. It includes a leak-proof pan and a divider panel for adjustable living space as your dog grows or for crate training. Its fold-flat design aids portability and storage, making it a strong pick for households with limited space or frequent travel needs.
Why selected: The 42-inch size is purpose-built for large dogs who still need a compact footprint when space is at a premium. The space-saving Up & Away door design is a standout feature for rooms that can feel crowded with a traditional crate. The rugged construction and easy assembly add practical value for busy households.
Caution: For dogs close to the 90 lb limit, verify internal dimensions to ensure comfortable standing and turning space. If you expect growth or a taller frame, consider stepping up to a larger model to avoid a cramped feel.
MidWest Medium Ovation 30-Inch Crate
Best for: Medium-sized dogs up to about 40 pounds who benefit from a compact, space-saving crate. The Up & Away door folds neatly on top, keeping the room clear for furniture or pathways. It’s a practical choice for apartment living or small offices where a larger crate would feel intrusive.
Why selected: This model combines essential crate training features with a highly portable footprint. The top-stowed door design reduces clutter and makes setup and breakdown quick for households that move crates between rooms or travel with pets.
Caution: If your dog is near the upper end of the weight range or tends to push on the doors, ensure the door is securely engaged and consider a larger option to avoid cramping your dog’s movement.
MidWest iCrate 36-Inch for 41-70 Lb Dogs
Best for: Dogs in the 41-70 lb range, such as bulldogs and similar breeds that require sturdy construction with reliable latches. The crate is designed for reliability, featuring rounded corner clips and paw block latches to minimize snags or escapes. The included divider and leak-proof tray add practical value for long-term use.
Why selected: The iCrate’s robust build quality and secure latching system make it a dependable option for dogs that test crate boundaries. It is also easy to assemble and resistant to rust, supporting years of regular use in a busy home.
Caution: If your dog is just above 70 lbs or grows quickly, sizing up to a 42-inch model may offer more comfortable space and reduce re-crating frequency.
MidWest Intermediate Ovation 36-Inch Crate
Best for: Medium-to-large breeds that need a compact unit with space-saving features. The Up & Away door lifts and stores on top, which helps in small rooms or apartments. The 36-inch interior dimensions provide a comfortable zone for dogs in the 41-70 lb range while maintaining travel-friendly portability.
Why selected: This size balances interior volume with room-defining exterior dimensions, making it a versatile choice for multi-room homes or where a door swing could obstruct a walkway. The configuration supports effective crate training with a secure latch system.
Caution: If you have very tall or long dogs, verify that the interior height and length align with your dog’s actual measurements to avoid cramped posture in the crate.
MidWest iCrate 48-Inch Extra-Large
Best for: Large to giant breeds around 90-110 pounds, such as German Shepherds or Huskies, that require substantial interior space. The crate includes a divider panel and a leak-proof tray, supporting long-term housing and crate training plans in larger homes or shared living spaces.
Why selected: The 48-inch configuration provides ample room for roomier dogs while maintaining a robust build with durable e-coat finish. The secure latching system and portability features make it a practical option for households that occasionally move the crate or relocate within the home.
Caution: This crate is heavy and less portable than smaller models. Ensure it fits your room layout and consider helper assistance during setup or relocation.
Buying Guide: How To Choose The Right Up & Away Door Crate
- Space considerations: If you have a small room, prioritize crates with the Up & Away door to free floor space. Measure your doorway clearance and ceiling height before selecting a model.
- Dog size and growth: Choose a crate that offers a comfortable interior height, length, and width for your dog now, with a divider panel to adapt as they grow. Avoid crates that feel cramped at the highest end of the dog’s weight range.
- Door design and security: Up & Away doors are convenient in tight spaces, but ensure the mechanism stays secure and easy to operate for daily use and travel. Always check latches and any paw-block features for durability.
- Portability vs. durability: If you travel frequently or move the crate between rooms, look for fold-flat designs, light handles, and a sturdy carrying option. Heavier models offer greater stability for anxious or powerful dogs.
- Ease of cleaning: A leak-proof tray simplifies maintenance. Ensure the tray slides out easily and the crate interior resists rust and wear with a protective coating.
- Placement and training use: For households using crates for training, two-door or multiple-door options can aid in door training and flexible crate placement. Consider whether you need a single-door model or a double-door setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Up & Away door and how does it save space?
– The Up & Away door lifts and stores on top of the crate, reducing the need for swing clearance and freeing floor space in small rooms. - Which crate size is best for a growing puppy?
– Start with a size that accommodates current weight and consider a model with a divider panel so you can resize the interior as your puppy grows. - Are these crates suitable for training?
– Yes. Many models include secure latches and divider panels, which support standard crate training practices and reduce the need to swap crates as a dog grows. - Do heavier crates affect room layout?
– Heavier crates are typically more stable but less portable. Plan placement first, then decide if you need occasional relocation capabilities. - Should I choose a double-door crate for training?
– A double-door design can enhance placement flexibility and early training scenarios, but a single-door crate with a robust door may be sufficient for many dogs. - Is a larger crate always better for big dogs?
– Not necessarily. The interior dimensions should allow comfortable turning, standing, and lying down without excess space that can lead to anxiety. Choose the size that matches your dog’s measurements and activity level.