6 Best Dog Crates for Mastiffs in 2024

Kate Barrington

Researched & Written by

Kate Barrington


At Pawster, we are committed to presenting the most accurate and up-to-date information to assist you in your pet care journey. When appropriate, we consult licensed and practicing veterinarians to fact-check our professionally written articles.

Although mastiffs look large in pictures, it takes a face-to-face encounter with one of these giants to grasp just how large this breed is. Some mastiffs, especially the males, may be able to outweigh a full-grown adult.

While mastiffs originally got their start on the front lines of battle, it’s been hundreds of years since these dogs have fought any wars. Nowadays, most mastiffs prefer to take casual strolls around town with their owners or lounge around the house.

Anyone who’s ever owned a mastiff knows that, among other things, you’ll need a crate for your dog to sleep in. Unfortunately, finding a crate that’s big enough to accommodate the mastiff’s large size can be tricky. Many crates end up making sizes just shy of the mastiff’s average measurements. Even harder is finding a crate that’s both big enough and comfortable can be even harder.

The good news is you don’t need to try and do it alone—we’ve already gathered a list of the best mastiff crates of 2024 as well as useful information about sizing, crate types, and frequently asked questions.

What is a Good Crate Size for Mastiffs?

While it can vary from dog to dog, most full-grown mastiffs require a cage that’s around fifty-four inches. Some female mastiffs may only need crates that are around forty-eight inches, but you’ll need to measure your dog to be sure.

If you haven’t already, you should measure both the height and width of your mastiff (and then add three inches to whatever you get). While your measurements may not add up fifty-four inches, you’ll want the closest size you can find (that’s still bigger than your dog).

The trickiest part can be finding a brand that includes a fifty-four inch (or extra-large) size. Some products only include medium or large sizes, so you’ll want to make sure the crate will fit your mastiff before you buy it.

What to Look for in a Good Crate for Mastiffs

It’s important to know what to look for before you buy anything. Unless you know what features make up a good crate, you could end up wasting your money on a product that isn’t right for your mastiff.

One of the first things to consider when purchasing a crate is your mastiff’s personality. If your dog frequently gets anxious in enclosed spaces, a plastic kennel may be a bad choice (and a wire cage may be a better option). However, other mastiffs may find security in enclosed spaces—meaning a plastic crate would be ideal.

How easy the crate is to clean is another concern. If you’ve never owned a dog crate before, you might not realize how often these kennels need to be scrubbed down. Without regular cleanings, a cage can start to smell. It’s important to look for crates that go out of their way to make the cleaning process a little easier.

Where you plan to put the cage is something else to think about. Wooden crates don’t typically do well outdoors, but wire cages may be the best option for hot and humid climates. If you’re thinking about traveling, a plastic crate can help keep your mastiff secure (and not overexposed).

Different Types of Dog Crates for Mastiffs

When it comes to picking out a type of crate for your mastiff, this breed is pretty flexible. While many owners who like to travel choose to use plastic crates, chances are that you aren’t going to be hauling your fully-grown mastiff around in trains or airplanes. That being said, plastic crates can offer other advantages: if you need to place the crate outside for any length of time, a plastic crate tends to hold up better than some other options.

Some owners may hesitate to use a wire cage since it resembles a cage, but this may be your most humane choice. Not only will a wire cage provide your mastiff with all the airflow they need, but wire kennels also tend to be the easiest to clean too.

Most of the time, all you need to do is take out the removable tray. If your mastiff happens to be an aggressive chewer, the sturdy construction of a wire cage can stop them from doing any permanent damage to the structure.

Wooden crates are a popular option for mastiff owners. Since wooden crates often come in a variety of different sizes and styles, finding one that fits a mastiff’s hulking form can be a little easier. The major disadvantages you may find with a wooden kennel is that not only are they unsuited for the outdoors, but they’re also heavier than plastic or wire crates too.

Overall Best Dog Crates for Mastiffs

Now that you understand how to measure your dog and what to look for, it’s time to talk about the best mastiff crates currently on the market.

Midwest iCrate Double Door Fold & Carry Dog Crate

Best Overall

For a crate that prioritizes your mastiff’s safety and security, there’s no need to look any further than the MidWest iCrate Double Door Fold & Carry Dog Crate. With an easy set-up that won’t take hours, this kennel includes two doors for your mastiff to use. When you need to transport the crate from place to place, there are also two plastic carrying handles that you can use.

If your mastiff has an accident, there’s a removable plastic pan inside that you can take for easy cleaning and then replace. What many owners also appreciate is that, unlike some other choices, this crate includes a divider panel so that you can section off areas until your mastiff is fully-grown.

5 More Highly Rated Dog Crates for Mastiffs

We’ve already shown you the best of the best, but everybody has different preferences—which is why we’ve added five more of the best mastiff crates below.

Petmate Navigator Plastic Kennel

For a crate that doesn’t take hours to assemble, the Petmate Navigator Plastic Kennel might be your best option. With a two-way door that allows your mastiff to walk in or out (when they’re open), you can always take the top off the carrier if you choose to. If your mastiff is relaxing at home, there may be no reason to keep the top on (but you can easily snap it back on if the kennel is going in the car).

To prevent odors and bacteria build-up, this crate also includes Microban technology. Unlike some other crates, which can become dirty within a few days, this kennel is designed to resist bacteria and grime.

Frisco Indoor & Outdoor Soft Dog Crate

Although it may not accommodate a full-grown mastiff, the Frisco Indoor & Outdoor Soft Dog Crate can be the perfect way to haul your mastiff puppy back and forth from the vet or wherever else you may go. Not only can you easily set it up without having to bring all your tools out, but you can ensure your mastiff stays secure by zipping up the three doors and locking them shut.

Although this is a soft kennel, that doesn’t mean a playful mastiff will be able to destroy it. Since it includes a steel frame, chances are that your pup won’t be able to tear it apart anytime soon.

New Age Pet ecoFLEX Crate & End Table

Although wooden crates may be stylish and good in-home crates, it can be difficult to find one that fits large breeds like mastiffs. Fortunately, the New Age Pet ecoFLEX Crate & End Table might be able to do the impossible.

With eco-friendly wood and a recycled-plastic construction, purchasing this product means you’ll be supporting the environment too.  If your mastiff is an escape artist, you might be relieved to know that this crate includes a secure latch door so that your pup won’t be able to pull a disappearing act.

While not recommended as a training kennel, this crate can be the perfect place for your mastiff to unwind after a long day.

Carlson Pet Products Secure & Compact Double Door Wire Dog Crate

For a dog that weighs as much as a full-grown adult, your mastiff needs something secure like the Carlson Pet Products Secure & Compact Double Wire Dog Crate. This sturdy kennel includes two doors for your mastiff to use as well as a double-bolt locking system so that your mastiff won’t be able to easily escape.

When you need to store it or put it away, you can fold the wire cage in half and stick in smaller spaces. If your mastiff happens to have an accident, it’s not the end of the world: the black composite pan slides out for easy cleaning.

Precision Pet Products Double-Door Dog Crate 

Given their large size, it can be difficult to find a crate that fits a mastiff correctly. Luckily, the Precision Pets Double-Door Dog Crate may do exactly that: not only is it big enough to fit large breeds like the mastiff, but it’s also designed to be heavy-duty as well. The metal wires on the side of the cage are thicker and more durable than some other choices.

Since it has a leak-proof plastic pan, you don’t need to worry about your pup’s accidents causing any long-term damage to the crate.

Tips for Crate Training Mastiffs

Now that you know what to look for and which crates may work best for your mastiff, it’s time to talk about the do’s (and the don’ts) of crate training:

  1. Never use the crate as a way to punish your mastiff. Using the crate as a “time out” will only teach your mastiff that going in the crate is something they should avoid. If you ever want your pup to use the kennel voluntarily, you’ll avoid making it a punishment.
  2. When your mastiff voluntarily goes inside their crate, don’t forget to reward them with a treat. Positive reinforcement can go a long way in helping your mastiff realize that the crate is a good thing. By giving them a treat when they go inside, your mastiff will be more likely to go voluntarily when you ask.
  3. Mastiff puppies should never be left inside their crate longer than three or four hours. Not only can long periods in a crate result in an accident, but puppies and full-grown dogs alike need exercise and social stimulation. You wouldn’t want to be trapped in an enclosed space for hours and your mastiff wouldn’t want to be either.
  4. Once you know your mastiff won’t rip your house apart when you’re gone, you should let your mastiff pick and choose when they want to go inside their kennel.
  5. Try putting the kennel in an area of the house that’s populated. Common areas like the living room or kitchen are great places to store your mastiff’s crate since he won’t feel isolated or alone.
  6. Don’t forget to add plenty of pillows and bedding to the crate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can my mastiff be in the crate?

Mastiffs that are younger than six months should never be left inside their crates for longer than three or four hours at the most. Leaving your dog inside a kennel with limited room to move around can not only result in an accident but also make them anxious.

Is it cruel to crate train a mastiff?

Crate training isn’t cruel and it can prevent you from having to clean up plenty of messes. Keep in mind, however, that you should make sure you’re crate training your mastiff correctly.

Why should I crate train my mastiff?

Crate training can help your mastiff view the kennel as a safe spot to lie down or relax and also stop a hyperactive mastiff puppy from destroying your home while you’re gone. Some owners may place their mastiffs in a crate when they have guests over or they need their dog to calm down.

How do I know if the crate is too big?

Although it may be easy to tell if a crate is too small, figuring out if it’s too big can be a challenge. While it’s unlikely you’ll ever find one that’s just too large for an adult mastiff, crates that are too large can encourage your mastiff to use the bathroom inside. If your pup is able to comfortably lie in one corner without touching the other at all, it may be a sign that the crate is too big.

When do I need to put my mastiff in his crate?

For mastiff puppies, crate time might be anytime that you’re out running errands. While involuntary crate time should never extend more than a few hours, it’s not unreasonable to put your mastiff in his crate for an hour or two if you’re worried that he’ll tear the house apart. Some people may put their mastiff in a crate or cage while they have important guests over as well.

Conclusion

Now that you’re equipped with all the information you need to make a smart choice, it may be time to start searching for the right crate. If you’re still feeling a little confused about what to buy, feel free to try one of the top-rated best mastiff crates above.

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