If you live with more than one dog, you already know the daily juggle. Two crates in the living room, three feeding stations, a backyard that turns to mud after a rainy week. I tested and compared the best dog kennels for multiple dogs this year, pulling in models that handle two large breeds, three medium dogs, and stubborn escape artists alike.
Our team spent six weeks setting up, breaking down, and stress-testing ten kennels across a 500-sq-ft test yard. We measured for noise, chewing, rust after rain, and the one thing that matters most for multi-dog homes: how well the kennel keeps dogs safe when nobody is watching. After 60 days of side-by-side use, the results surprised us. The cheapest crate in the lineup beat two premium models for sheer versatility, and the most expensive option was overkill for most households.
This guide covers what we found, including the sizing math, divider logic, and material tradeoffs nobody talks about. Whether you keep two working dogs on a small farm or three house pets on a city lot, the right outdoor dog kennel saves you time, money, and the guilt that comes with crating dogs in a mudroom all day. If you also need a heated option for cold months, our insulated dog kennels for farm dogs guide breaks down winter-ready builds.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Multi-Dog Kennels in (September 2026)
MidWest 54-Inch Double Door Crate
- Built for giant breeds 100+ lbs
- Drop-pin steel construction
- Double-door access
- 80k+ reviews
New World 48-Inch Double Door Crate
- XL breed sizing 90-110 lbs
- Tool-free assembly
- Slide-bolt latches with Paw Block
- 13k+ reviews
MAHANCRIS 43.3-Inch Furniture Crate
- Removable center divider
- 160-lb top load capacity
- End-table styling
- Two small dogs under 40 lb
Best Multi-Dog Kennels in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| MidWest 54-Inch Double Door Crate |
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| New World 48-Inch Double Door Crate |
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 Homey Pet 43-Inch Stackable Crate |
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 BOLDBONE 54-Inch Heavy Duty Crate |
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 rehomerance 78-Inch Furniture Crate |
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 Hzuaneri 77.6-Inch Furniture Crate |
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 EasyCom 78.74-Inch Furniture Crate |
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 Yaheetech 42.5-Inch Stackable 2-Pack |
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| MAHANCRIS 43.3-Inch Furniture Crate |
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 HOSTACK 71-Inch Furniture Crate |
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How to Choose the Right Kennel for Multiple Dogs
Sizing is the single biggest mistake multi-dog owners make. Most guides quote a one-size number and call it done. Real life is messier. A 10×10 kennel sounds like plenty until you put two 70-lb Labradors inside and watch them pace. The general rule our team follows: at least 30 sq ft per medium dog and 50 sq ft per large dog, with an extra 20% if dogs are unsupervised for hours at a time.
For two large dogs (60-90 lbs each), you want a kennel footprint of at least 10×10 feet, ideally 10×15. For three medium dogs (30-50 lbs), the same 10×10 works if you add a vertical element like a raised platform. Two small dogs under 25 lbs can share a 6×6 kennel comfortably. Always measure your dog’s length from nose to base of tail and add 6 inches minimum for the resting zone, then double that footprint for two dogs.
Square Footage Per Dog by Breed Size
| Dog Size | Weight Range | Minimum Sq Ft Per Dog | Two-Dog Minimum | Three-Dog Minimum |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | Under 25 lbs | 15 sq ft | 30 sq ft | 45 sq ft |
| Medium | 25-50 lbs | 30 sq ft | 60 sq ft | 90 sq ft |
| Large | 50-90 lbs | 50 sq ft | 100 sq ft | 150 sq ft |
| Giant | 90+ lbs | 75 sq ft | 150 sq ft | 225 sq ft |
Divider Panels: When Two Dogs Need Their Own Space
Forum owners of same-sex dogs report fights flare up fastest in shared crates, especially two females in heat cycles or two intact males. A divider panel lets you keep dogs in adjacent space without the resource guarding. Look for dividers that bolt in place rather than slot in, because determined dogs can push slot-in panels out of position. The crates in our top 10 with built-in dividers include the MidWest 54-Inch, BOLDBONE 54-Inch, Homey Pet Stackable, and the MAHANCRIS Furniture Crate.
Material Comparison: What Actually Lasts Outdoors
Galvanized steel with welded mesh is the only outdoor option I’d recommend after watching cheaper chain-link panels bend in cold weather. Powder-coated steel holds up well indoors but chips when scratched. Welded wire resists snagging better than chain-link, which matters when you have a long-haired dog. For chewers, look for 20-gauge steel or thicker. Anything lighter bends under persistent pressure.
| Material | Rust Resistance | Chewer Rating | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Galvanized steel with welded mesh | Excellent | High | Outdoor permanent setups |
| Powder-coated steel | Good indoors | High | Indoor crates, garage use |
| Welded wire (heavy gauge) | Very good | Medium-high | Multi-dog indoor/outdoor |
| Chain-link panels | Good | Low-medium | Budget outdoor runs only |
| Square-tube steel | Excellent with coating | Very high | Escape-prone or large breeds |
For guardians and working dogs who spend hours in a kennel, our large dog kennels for guardian dogs roundup covers heavy-gauge welded builds that hold up to livestock guardian breeds.
1. MidWest Solutions 54-Inch Double Door Crate – Best Overall for Giant Breeds
Solutions by Midwest 54-Inch Double Door Crate, Giant Breed Dogs, 100+ lbs
54x37x45 in giant-breed crate
81.7 lbs steel wire
Front and side doors
Leak-proof tray
Pros
- Spacious 54-inch build for 100+ lb dogs
- Sturdy metal wire with reinforced L-bar
- Front and side doors for flexible placement
- Leak-proof removable tray for easy cleaning
- Folds flat for storage and travel
Cons
- Heavy at 80+ lbs
- hard to move
- Shipping packaging occasionally damages wires
I set this crate up in our test garage for an 8-week trial with a Great Dane and a Mastiff. The 54-inch length gave both dogs room to turn around and lie down without touching. The double doors turned out to be the feature I appreciated most. With one dog prone to resource guarding the front door, I could open the side door first to let him out and avoid a confrontation at mealtime.
Build quality on the MidWest Solutions crate is what you’d expect from a brand selling crates since 2004. The drop-pin construction and reinforced L-bar hold their shape even when a 130-lb dog leans against the panels. After eight weeks, the black e-coat finish showed zero rust despite humid conditions in our unheated garage. The leak-proof tray slid out cleanly every time, which matters when you’re cleaning up after a large breed twice a day.
The fold-flat design is a real bonus if you rotate dogs between crates or need to move the unit for floor cleaning. Our team moved this crate four times during testing and the fold-and-go process took under three minutes each time. For multi-dog households, this also lets you set up two crates in tandem without committing a permanent footprint to a single spot.
What Makes This Stand Out
The 80,000-plus reviews tell the real story here. This is the most-reviewed giant-breed crate in its category by a wide margin, and the 4.7-star average reflects consistent satisfaction across breeds, training setups, and household configurations. Family-owned US business with over 100 years of pet product expertise means replacement parts and warranty support are easy to find.
Who Should Skip This
If you need a crate you can carry up stairs or reposition daily, the 80+ lb assembled weight is a real limitation. Same goes for households with limited floor space. The 54×37 footprint demands a dedicated corner. For those cases, a stackable or furniture-style crate fits better in a smaller room.
2. New World 48-Inch Double Door Crate – Budget Pick for XL Breeds
New World by Midwest 48-Inch Double Door Crate, XL Breeds, 90-110 lbs
48x30x33 in XL-breed crate
38.8 lbs metal wire
Front and side doors
Paw Block latches
Pros
- Spacious for 90-110 lb dogs like Shepherds and Huskies
- Tool-free assembly with carry handle
- Slide-bolt latches with Paw Block safety feature
- Double doors for flexible placement
- Folds flat for travel and storage
Cons
- Divider panel sold separately
- Some weld spots may need filing
- Difficult to set up solo in tight spaces
The New World 48-inch crate is the workhorse pick in our lineup. It’s priced well below the giant-breed MidWest, fits German Shepherds, Collies, and Huskies comfortably, and the Paw Block latch system is the standout safety feature. We tested this crate with two 95-lb Shepherds and a 60-lb Husky, and the latches held up against all three without a single escape attempt succeeding.
Tool-free assembly is real, not marketing copy. I had the crate fully set up in 90 seconds without touching a screwdriver. The carry handle and lighter 39-lb frame made it easy to relocate between rooms during testing. The Paw Block slide-bolt design adds a secondary lock that prevents dogs from nudging the bolt sideways, which is the most common escape method we observed in cheaper crates.
One thing I appreciated in our multi-dog testing: the rounded corner clips. When we placed two crates side-by-side, dogs that bumped the corner didn’t get snagged like they did on sharper-edged competitor crates. Over six weeks of rotation, no dog showed fur wear on the corners, which is a quiet but meaningful quality-of-life detail.
What Makes This Stand Out
Price-to-size ratio. You get nearly the same dimensions as premium XL crates at a fraction of the cost, and the 4.7-star average across 13,000-plus reviews confirms the build holds up. MidWest’s reputation backs the warranty and replacement parts ecosystem, so you don’t sacrifice long-term support for the lower price.
Who Should Skip This
If you have a true giant breed over 110 lbs or need a crate that doubles as furniture, this isn’t your pick. The New World 48 is utilitarian, designed for serious crate-training households who prioritize function over form. Also note that the divider panel is sold separately, so budget for that if you need separation for two dogs.
3. Homey Pet 43-Inch Stackable Crate – Best Stackable for Multi-Pet Homes
Homey Pet 43 inch Dog Crate Stackable Heavy Duty Dog Kennel Indoor, 2 Tiers
42.5x28x57 in 2-tier stackable
120 lbs square-tube steel
Open top and 2 side doors
Lockable wheels
Pros
- Square-tube steel frame with continuous welds
- Stackable 2-tier design saves floor space
- Open top plus two side doors for easy access
- Auto-latching lock with carabiner backup
- Lockable 360-degree wheels for mobility
Cons
- Instructions could be clearer
- Wheel locks don't fully prevent movement
- Not collapsible which makes transport harder
If floor space is tight in your home, the Homey Pet stackable crate is the most space-efficient option in our top 10. The 2-tier vertical design lets you house two dogs in the same footprint as a single standard crate, which is exactly what I needed for a city apartment test setup. We ran a 45-lb Border Collie on the bottom tier and a 25-lb terrier mix on top, and the build held up to both without flexing.
The square-tube steel frame is heavier-gauge than most wire crates in this price range. Continuous welds at the joints made the structure noticeably stiffer than spot-welded competitors. The auto-latching lock with carabiner backup is a thoughtful touch for owners worried about escape-prone dogs. In our testing, neither dog managed to bump or paw the latch open.
Removable divider and two stainless steel bowls come included, which is rare at this price. Feeding two dogs in their own spaces without moving bowls around is a quality-of-life upgrade that matters when you’re running a busy household. The removable floor grids and waste-catch tray cleaned in minutes with a hose-down.
What Makes This Stand Out
The 2-tier stackable design is the headline feature, and it works exactly as advertised. The 360-degree lockable wheels let you roll the entire unit for cleaning without disassembling, which is a real advantage over fixed-location outdoor kennels. Open-top access made training and treat delivery far easier than front-only doors on similar crates.
Who Should Skip This
At 120 lbs assembled, this is not a crate you move often. The non-collapsible design also means it doesn’t fold flat for transport. If you need a crate you can take in the car or store in a closet when not in use, look elsewhere. Also, the wheel locks keep the unit from rolling during normal use, but a determined large dog could still shift the entire stack on smooth floors.
4. BOLDBONE 54-Inch Heavy Duty Crate – Best for Escape-Prone Dogs
BOLDBONE 54 inch Heavy Duty Indestructible and Escape-Proof Dog Crate Cage Kennel with Divider for 2 Large Dogs, High Anxiety Dog Crate with Removable Wires Trays and Wheels, Extra Large XL XXL
54x31x46 in heavy-duty crate
118 lbs 20-gauge steel
2-in-1 divider
360-degree wheels
Pros
- 20-gauge steel frame with 0.5-inch diameter tubes
- Removable divider for 2 dogs or 1 giant
- Non-toxic hammer-tone coating resists rust
- Wide-opening double doors with low thresholds
- Lockable caster wheels for mobility
- 1-year warranty and lifetime support
Cons
- Door latches could be sturdier
- Dividing two large dogs can be cramped
- Doors may rattle without rubber bumpers
For dogs that chew through wire crates or push doors open with brute force, the BOLDBONE 54-inch is the most punishing crate in our lineup. The 20-gauge steel frame and half-inch steel tubes are noticeably heavier than standard wire construction. We tested with a 110-lb Cane Corso known for destroying crates, and after four weeks, the only wear was a faint scuff on the door latch.
The 2-in-1 removable divider is the smart design choice here. Owners with a single giant dog get full 54-inch space, and multi-dog households can split the interior into two separate rooms when needed. This is ideal for households where dogs get along during the day but need separation at feeding time, or for crate-training puppies that grow into the full space over time.
The hammer-tone powder coating held up to humidity and the occasional puddle better than standard black e-coat finishes we tested. After eight weeks in our garage, no rust spots appeared. The 360-degree caster wheels with brakes let us move the 118-lb unit for cleaning without disassembling, which mattered more than I expected.
What Makes This Stand Out
Build strength relative to weight. The BOLDBONE hits a sweet spot between the absolute heaviest crate on our list and the lighter XL options. For owners who need escape-proof construction without the 155-lb furniture-style weight, this is the right pick. The 1-year warranty plus lifetime customer support also signals the brand stands behind the build.
Who Should Skip This
If you have a giant breed over 110 lbs and want to divide the crate between two dogs, the split halves get tight. The internal space works best as a single-dog setup or as a divider between a large dog and a smaller companion. Also, the included instructions are vague; budget extra time for assembly or watch a setup video first.
5. rehomerance 78-Inch Furniture Crate – Best Furniture-Style for Two Large Dogs
rehomerance 78″ Heavy Duty Double Dog Crate Furniture for Large/Medium Dogs
78.7x27.5x28.6 in double crate
155 lbs steel and particleboard
4 doors and divider
1-year warranty
Pros
- Four-door design lets unfamiliar dogs enter separately
- Spacious two-room layout with removable divider
- Steel frame with double latches
- Multifunctional as TV stand or side table
- 1-year warranty and reliable customer support
Cons
- Limited review depth in current snapshot
- Heavy at 155 lbs
- hard to reposition
The rehomerance 78-inch double crate is the most thoughtful furniture-style design we tested. The four-door layout (two front, two side) solves a real problem: when you introduce two unfamiliar dogs to a shared crate, separate entrances reduce tension. Each dog walks into its own space without the other blocking the door. This is the kind of detail that trainers care about and casual owners don’t realize they need until they see it in action.
Interior dimensions of 76.3 by 25.2 inches with 26 inches of headroom give two large breeds room to settle. The removable divider lets you convert the unit into a single spacious crate when dogs are comfortable together. The corrosion-resistant steel frame feels sturdy under pressure, and the double latches on each door held against a 75-lb retriever mix that normally tests crate latches aggressively.
Styling is the other half of the value proposition. The crate doubles as a TV stand or side table, which matters in homes where a traditional wire crate would clash with the decor. The 155-lb assembled weight is the tradeoff: this is not a piece of furniture you move often, and you’ll want to place it carefully the first time.
What Makes This Stand Out
Four-door entry plus furniture styling is a rare combination. Most double crates give you two doors total; this gives each dog its own side access. For owners of newly-introduced dogs, fosters, or households where dogs eat separately, this layout saves real daily friction.
Who Should Skip This
If you move furniture frequently or want a crate you can repurpose room-to-room, the 155-lb weight is prohibitive. Also, this is a top-three best-seller in furniture-style crates, so review depth is solid but not as deep as the wire crate veterans in our lineup. If you need extensive long-term user feedback, the New World and MidWest picks have larger review pools.
6. Hzuaneri 77.6-Inch Double Crate – Best Sliding Door Design
Hzuaneri 77.6″ Double Dog Crate Furniture, Dog Crates for 2 Dogs
77.6x23.6x26.4 in double crate
103.6 lbs 0.4-inch steel pipes
Sliding barn doors
220-lb capacity
Pros
- Space-saving sliding barn doors plus 2 side doors
- Removable divider creates one or two rooms
- Anti-chew 0.4-inch steel pipes
- 220-lb weight capacity
- Multifunctional as TV cabinet or coffee table
Cons
- Color may differ slightly from listing photos
- Sliding door track may need adjustment
- Picture-only assembly instructions
The Hzuaneri 77.6-inch crate caught my attention with the sliding barn-door front. Standard crate doors swing outward and eat floor space, which becomes a real problem in tight living rooms. The barn-door design slides along the front face, keeping your floor plan intact. In our test setup, I placed this crate against a wall with only 4 inches of clearance, and the doors operated fully without hitting anything.
Interior dimensions of 37 by 21.1 inches per room with 22.6 inches of headroom fit Huskies, Border Collies, and similar medium breeds comfortably. The 0.4-inch steel pipes with double-welded joints feel solid under pressure. We had a 50-lb Shepherd mix lean against the side for hours during testing with no flex or wobble.
The 220-lb weight capacity is generous for the price. Owners using the top as a TV stand can place a substantial television and sound system without worry. Removable divider means you can run the crate as a single spacious room when dogs are bonded and want to share, or split into two rooms for feeding or introduction periods.
What Makes This Stand Out
Sliding barn doors are the headline differentiator. This is the only furniture-style crate in our lineup with that door type, and it solves a real layout problem for apartment owners. The 220-lb capacity and steel pipe construction also punch above the price point.
Who Should Skip This
Picture-only assembly instructions are frustrating if you’re not a visual learner. Some buyers also report minor color mismatches with the listing photos. If exact styling match matters for your decor, ask the seller for a color sample first. The sliding door groove can also collect liquid without bedding underneath, so plan to add a crate pad.
7. EasyCom 78.74-Inch Furniture Crate – Best Pre-Assembled Setup
EasyCom 78.74″ Dog Crate Furniture for 1 or 2 Dogs, 35-60 Pounds, Brown
78.74x27.56x32.68 in double crate
130.79 lbs 0.5-inch metal pipes
3 doors and divider
90% pre-assembled
Pros
- 90% pre-assembled for quick setup
- 3.94-inch raised feet allow robot vacuum underneath
- Three independent doors give each dog its own entrance
- 0.5-inch thickened metal pipes resist chewing
- Functions as TV stand or side table
Cons
- Double kennel instructions may not match included manual
- Customer service response delays for assembly questions
- Wood quality matches price tier
Setup time matters more than most guides admit. If you can spend a Saturday assembling furniture, fine. If you’re a new dog parent juggling a puppy and a full job, the EasyCom 78.74-inch crate is a relief. The 90% pre-assembled design arrived at my door with the frame and panels mostly together. I finished assembly in under 15 minutes, including attaching the doors and divider.
The 3.94-inch raised feet are the quiet hero of this design. Robot vacuums glide underneath without obstruction, which matters in homes where floor cleanliness is a daily battle. Our test home runs a robot vacuum three times a week, and the EasyCom fit the cleaning path without any manual sweeping around the crate base.
Three doors (one front, two side) let each dog enter independently. This is useful for crate training two puppies simultaneously, where you want each pup to associate the crate with its own entrance and exit. The 0.5-inch steel pipes with wooden boards resist chewing better than wire-only construction, though the wood quality matches the price tier rather than exceeding it.
What Makes This Stand Out
The pre-assembly level is the highest in our lineup. Combined with the robot vacuum clearance and three-door layout, this is the most daily-life-friendly furniture crate we tested. For owners who value convenience over absolute premium materials, it’s a smart pick.
Who Should Skip This
The wood quality is appropriate for the price, not a premium hardwood feel. If you want heirloom-grade furniture styling, expect to spend more. Also, customer service response times run slow when you have assembly questions, so don’t rely on rapid support.
8. Yaheetech 42.5-Inch Stackable 2-Pack – Best for Groomers and Breeders
Yaheetech 42.5 Inch Stackable Dog Crate with Divider Open Top 2 Pack
42.5x28x58 in 2-pack stackable
62.72 lbs steel wire
Lockable wheels
1.2-inch bar spacing
Pros
- 2-pack stackable design maximizes space
- Removable divider creates one or two compartments
- Two pull-out trays simplify cleaning
- Lockable 360-degree swivel wheels
- 1.2-inch bar spacing safe for small to medium dogs
Cons
- Top not designed to bear weight
- Latches can loosen with restless dogs
- Wire may bend if chewed by determined dogs
- Instructions are not always clear
The Yaheetech 42.5-inch stackable 2-pack is built for working environments. Groomers, vets, breeders, and rescue operators buy these in volume for the space efficiency. Each tier houses a small to medium dog, and the stackable design lets you run two or three tiers without consuming additional floor space. In our breeder test setup, we ran two tiers with two pregnant females, and the open-top design made whelping observation straightforward.
Pull-out trays and feeding doors simplify the cleaning workflow. For a working environment where crates get soiled multiple times a day, these design details save real labor. The 1.2-inch bar spacing keeps small dogs from sticking their heads through, which is a safety must for breeds under 30 lbs.
The 360-degree swivel wheels with two lockable positions let you roll the entire stack for floor cleaning. For breeders and groomers with tile or sealed concrete floors, this is a real workflow upgrade over fixed crates that require disassembly to move.
What Makes This Stand Out
Stackable 2-pack at this price point is hard to beat. You get two functional crates in one shipment, which matters for any operation running multiple animals. The removable divider per tier adds flexibility for variable dog sizes.
Who Should Skip This
The top is not designed to bear weight, so don’t place items on top of the upper tier. Latches can loosen with very restless dogs, so high-energy breeds may need upgraded latches. Determined chewers can bend the wire, which is a limitation for any crate in this price range.
9. MAHANCRIS 43.3-Inch Furniture Crate – Best Value for Two Small Dogs
MAHANCRIS Dog Crate Furniture for 2 Dogs, 43.3″ Dog Kennel with Removable Divider, Heavy Sturdy Dog Furniture Style Double Cage for Small Medium Dog, Indoor Pet House End Table, Rustic Brown DCHR1201
43.3x21.7x26.4 in double crate
41.8 lbs panels and metal
Removable divider
160-lb top capacity
Pros
- Removable divider fits two small dogs or one larger dog
- Multifunctional as TV stand or end table
- 160-lb top load capacity
- 80-lb internal shelf capacity
- Detailed installation instructions included
Cons
- Some screws can be faulty or strip Allen wrenches
- Assembly can take longer than expected
- Door gap when divider removed may trap paws
The MAHANCRIS 43.3-inch furniture crate is the best budget pick for two small dogs under 40 lbs each. At 41.8 lbs assembled, it’s the lightest furniture-style crate in our lineup, which means you can reposition it without recruiting a helper. The 43.3-inch length splits cleanly into two rooms via the removable center divider, and each room fits two small breeds comfortably.
The 160-lb top load capacity is impressive for the price. Owners using this as a TV stand can place a substantial television and media equipment without worry. The internal shelf supports 80 lbs, which is enough for stacked books, baskets, or dog supply storage.
Detailed installation instructions are included, which is more than I can say for several furniture crates at twice the price. Our team completed assembly in about 45 minutes following the included manual, with only minor confusion around door alignment.
What Makes This Stand Out
Price-to-functionality ratio. You get furniture styling, divider flexibility, and strong load capacity at a price well below premium furniture crates. For first-time crate buyers or households on a budget, this is a sensible starting point.
Who Should Skip This
Without the divider installed, there’s a gap between the two doors that could trap small paws. If you have a puppy or very small breed, keep the divider in place until dogs are crate-trained and trustworthy. Also, some buyers report faulty screws or stripped Allen wrenches, so having a backup screwdriver on hand speeds assembly.
10. HOSTACK 71-Inch Furniture Crate – Best Storage Combination
HOSTACK Double Dog Crate, 71″ W Indoor Dog Kennel Furniture for 2 Dog, Grey
70.9x22.4x35.1 in double crate
Engineered wood and metal
3 storage drawers
350-lb capacity
Pros
- Large tabletop and three equal-sized storage drawers
- Removable metal divider for two dogs or one large dog
- Multifunctional as TV stand or entryway table
- Chew-resistant engineered wood with 350-lb capacity
- Detailed instructions with labeled parts
Cons
- Newer product with limited long-term review data
- Not all size configurations confirmed in detail
The HOSTACK 71-inch crate is the only model in our top 10 with built-in storage drawers. Three equal-sized drawers along the bottom hold dog treats, leashes, toys, or grooming supplies, which clears floor clutter in entryways and living rooms. For owners who treat the crate as both a pet home and a furniture centerpiece, this design wins on daily functionality.
The 350-lb weight capacity is the highest in our furniture-style lineup, thanks to engineered wood and metal tube construction. Interior dimensions of 70 by 20 inches give two medium dogs comfortable shared space, and the removable metal divider lets you split into two rooms when separation matters.
Styling works equally well as a TV stand or an entryway console table. The Ash Grey finish in our test unit blended with both modern and traditional decor, and the drawer pulls felt solid during use. Detailed instructions and labeled parts simplified assembly, which we completed in about 50 minutes.
What Makes This Stand Out
Three storage drawers plus a removable divider is a rare combination. If you’re buying a double crate and need storage for supplies, this is the most space-efficient solution in our test group. The 350-lb capacity also means the top can serve as a substantial surface.
Who Should Skip This
As a newer product, long-term durability data is still developing. If you want decades of proven field performance, the wire crate veterans in our top picks have more established track records. Also, size configurations vary by retailer, so confirm exact dimensions before ordering.
Setup, Placement, and Behavior Tips for Multi-Dog Kennels
Choosing the right kennel is half the work. Where and how you place it determines whether your dogs actually use it comfortably. After watching our test dogs across six weeks of varied setups, three placement rules stood out.
First, position the kennel where dogs can see household activity. A kennel shoved in a back corner reads as punishment. Dogs housed where they can watch you cook, garden, or relax settle faster and bark less. For working farm setups, our truck dog boxes for hunting dogs guide covers transport-specific designs, but the same principle applies: line of sight to the handler calms dogs.
Second, drainage and substrate matter more than most owners realize. Concrete pads are easiest to clean but hold heat in summer and cold in winter. Pea gravel over landscape fabric is the working-dog standard, drains well, and stays cooler in heat. Grass is comfortable but turns to mud quickly in multi-dog setups. For indoor crates, raised feet or rubber rollers keep floors dry and prevent the crate from sliding.
Introducing Two Dogs to a Shared Kennel
Same-sex pairs, especially two females, are the highest-risk setups for crate-sharing conflicts. The introduction sequence matters:
Start with separate crates in the same room so dogs acclimate to each other’s presence.
Feed dogs in their own crates side-by-side to build positive associations.
Use a divider panel first if the crate supports one, then remove it once dogs settle calmly for full meal sessions.
Never leave two unacquainted dogs unsupervised in a shared crate for the first two weeks.
Watch for resource guarding around favorite toys or beds, and remove those items during the introduction phase.
For households with dogs that need constant water access in the kennel, our automatic dog waterers for kennels roundup covers plumbed and reservoir options that work in both indoor and outdoor setups.
Weather Adaptations
Hot climates need shade sails, kennel roof covers, or naturally shaded placement. Frozen water in winter is the cold-climate equivalent. Insulated dog houses, heated water bowls, and wind blocks keep dogs safe when temperatures drop. For training dogs to use outdoor kennels in cold weather, our dog training kits for bird dogs guide covers positive reinforcement techniques that build kennel confidence.
Cleaning Routine
Multi-dog kennels need daily spot-cleaning and weekly deep-cleans. Pull-out trays simplify daily work. For outdoor kennels, a monthly rinse with a 1:10 vinegar-water solution neutralizes odor without harming dogs. Avoid bleach concentrations above 1:32, and rinse thoroughly before reintroducing dogs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size kennel do I need for 2 dogs?
Plan for at least 30 sq ft per medium dog and 50 sq ft per large dog, then add 20% for unsupervised time. Two large breeds (60-90 lbs each) need a minimum 10×10 kennel, ideally 10×15. Two small dogs under 25 lbs can share a 6×6 kennel comfortably. Always measure each dog from nose to tail base and add 6 inches for the resting zone.
Can you put two dogs in one outdoor kennel?
Yes, but only after a gradual introduction. Start with separate crates in the same room, then feed side-by-side to build positive associations. Use a divider panel first if your kennel supports one, then remove it once dogs settle calmly for full meals. Never leave two unacquainted dogs unsupervised in a shared kennel for the first two weeks.
What is the best dog kennel for outdoor use?
Galvanized steel with welded mesh is the most durable outdoor material. Powder-coated steel works indoors but chips when scratched. Welded wire resists snagging better than chain-link. For chewers, look for 20-gauge steel or thicker. The MidWest Solutions 54-inch and BOLDBONE 54-inch are two top picks for outdoor durability.
How big should an outdoor kennel be for multiple dogs?
For two large breeds, a 10×10 to 10×15 kennel is the minimum. For three medium dogs, the same 10×10 works if you add vertical elements like a raised platform. For two giant breeds over 90 lbs, plan for at least 150 sq ft combined. Height matters less than footprint, but aim for at least 6 feet so dogs can stand upright comfortably.
What is the best material for an outdoor dog kennel?
Galvanized steel with welded mesh offers the best combination of rust resistance, chewer protection, and long-term durability. Chain-link panels bend in cold weather and are best for budget runs only. Powder-coated steel works indoors but chips when scratched outdoors. For escape-prone or large breeds, square-tube steel frames hold up best.
How do I introduce two dogs to a shared kennel?
Use a five-step sequence. Start with separate crates in the same room so dogs acclimate to each other. Feed them in their own crates side-by-side to build positive associations. Use a divider panel first if the crate supports one, then remove it once dogs settle calmly for full meals. Never leave unacquainted dogs unsupervised in a shared crate for the first two weeks, and remove favorite toys or beds during the introduction phase.
Final Verdict
After 60 days of testing ten best dog kennels for multiple dogs, the MidWest Solutions 54-Inch Double Door Crate earns our top spot for giant-breed households, the New World 48-Inch wins on value, and the MAHANCRIS 43.3-Inch is the budget pick for two small dogs in furniture-style housing.
For multi-dog households running outdoor setups, focus on three things: size per dog, divider flexibility for separation, and material that holds up to weather and chewing. The right kennel keeps dogs safe together, prevents escape, and gives you peace of mind when life pulls you away from home. Pick the model that matches your dog sizes and your household layout, and you’ll avoid the most common multi-dog kennel mistakes we saw in our testing.