Introduction: Why Two Doors Matter More Than You Think
A dog crate isn’t just a metal box — it’s your pup’s safe haven, training space, and travel home. Yet one simple design feature can dramatically change how useful that crate is: the number of doors.
If you’ve ever wondered why many modern dog crates have two doors instead of one, you’re about to find out why this small upgrade makes a huge difference — for your dog’s comfort, your convenience, and your home’s layout.
Whether you’re a first-time pet parent or a long-time dog lover upgrading your setup, this guide breaks down 7 advanced reasons why double-door dog crates are superior — plus practical tips to choose, place, and use them the right way.
🦴 Why Do Dog Crates Have Two Doors?
A double-door dog crate features one door at the front and another on the side.
While it might sound like a minor change, it actually transforms how you — and your dog — interact with the crate.
Think of it this way: your home has multiple entry points to make movement easier. The same logic applies here — two doors give flexibility, accessibility, and safety that a single-door crate just can’t match.
Let’s explore the top 7 reasons.
🐾 1. Better Access — For You and Your Dog
One of the biggest frustrations with a single-door crate is positioning.
If the door faces a wall or furniture, you have to awkwardly turn it or move things around just to let your dog in or out.
A two-door crate eliminates that problem completely.
With doors on both sides, you can place the crate in any corner or wall space, and still have full access.
That means less bending, dragging, or rotating heavy crates — and a happier dog who can enter or exit naturally.
💡 Pro Tip:
If your dog is shy or nervous, position one door to face a quieter area of the room. They’ll feel secure knowing they can retreat or exit easily.
🧼 2. Easier to Clean and Maintain
Let’s be honest — cleaning a crate can be a chore.
When there’s only one door, you might have to crawl halfway inside to reach corners, wipe accidents, or remove bedding.
But with two doors, maintenance becomes effortless.
You can open both ends for cross-access, pull out trays, and disinfect the interior thoroughly without contorting your body or stressing your pet.
🧴 Cleaning Advantage:
- Double-door crates allow better airflow, so moisture and odor dry faster.
- You can remove toys, bowls, or mats from either side.
- Older or disabled owners find them easier to sanitize safely.
Regular cleaning not only improves hygiene but also helps your dog associate their crate with a clean, positive environment.
🎓 3. Smoother Crate Training Experience
Crate training is one of the most powerful tools for raising a calm, house-trained dog.
However, if your crate setup is restrictive, the process can feel frustrating — for both of you.
A two-door crate makes training easier because:
- You can guide your dog in from one door and let them exit from the other, teaching them direction and boundaries.
- It prevents them from feeling “trapped,” reducing anxiety.
- You can switch doors depending on where you’re training (living room, kitchen, or bedroom).
According to certified dog trainers, ease of access reduces stress during early crate introduction, which can significantly shorten training time.
🐕 Trainer Insight:
“Dogs learn faster when they feel they have options. A second exit makes the crate feel less like confinement and more like comfort.”
— Dr. Amanda Kerr, Certified Canine Behavior Specialist
🚪 4. Easier Entry and Exit — Especially for Older or Injured Dogs
Not all dogs can twist and turn easily inside a crate.
Senior dogs, large breeds, or pups recovering from injury may find one narrow doorway difficult to maneuver.
Two doors make movement smoother and safer:
- You can choose the door that provides the straightest path for your dog to walk in.
- If your pet is resting on one side, you can open the opposite door without disturbing them.
- Feeding, grooming, or vet-related crate use becomes less stressful.
❤️ Bonus Benefit:
For anxious dogs who hide at the back of the crate, an extra door gives you gentle access — no pulling or dragging required.
🐕🦺 5. Larger Side Door for Big Breeds and Easy Feeding
Front doors are usually narrower; side doors tend to be wider and lower.
That makes a big difference for bigger or rounder dogs like Labradors, Bulldogs, or Huskies who need space to walk in naturally.
A larger door also makes feeding and watering easier — you can place bowls or toys inside without opening the entire crate or waking a sleeping pup.
🍖 Feeding Tip:
If you use a crate for meal times, open the side door to slide food and water in. It prevents spillage and keeps your dog relaxed.
This feature also benefits dogs who dislike being approached head-on; the side door gives you a non-confrontational angle, ideal for shy or rescued dogs.
🏡 6. Flexible Placement Anywhere in Your Home
A single-door crate limits where you can place it.
But a double-door design gives you freedom to fit it into almost any room layout — against walls, under tables, or next to furniture — without blocking access.
You can even switch door usage seasonally or when rearranging furniture.
That makes the crate blend better with your home’s design and keeps your dog part of the family environment rather than tucked away.
🏠 Placement Tips:
- Avoid direct sunlight or cold drafts.
- Keep at least one door open during the day so your dog can enter voluntarily.
- If you live in an apartment, side-door crates fit well in narrow hallways or under desks.
🐩 7. Perfect for Multi-Dog Homes
If you own more than one dog, you know the morning chaos when both try to exit through the same opening.
Two doors solve that instantly.
Each dog can enter and exit independently, reducing conflict and improving flow.
It also helps when temporarily sharing a crate (e.g., during travel or emergencies).
Even if you crate them separately, having identical double-door crates simplifies your home setup and gives each dog equal comfort.
⚖️ Are Double-Door Crates Better Than Single-Door Ones?
In most situations, yes — double-door crates are the superior choice.
They offer:
- Greater convenience and accessibility
- Better hygiene and airflow
- Easier crate training
- More flexibility in room placement
- Enhanced safety and comfort for older or large dogs
The only exception is if you:
- Have very limited space, or
- Are on a tight budget and only need a small puppy crate for short-term use.
Otherwise, the investment in a double-door model pays off long-term — in ease, safety, and happiness.
⚠️ Are There Any Downsides?
A few, though they’re minor compared to the benefits:
- Slightly higher cost: Double-door crates may cost 10–20% more than single-door versions.
- Extra escape points: Anxious or destructive dogs have two doors to test.
- More latches to secure: You must ensure both doors are properly locked during travel or crate time.
That said, most high-quality crates use dual locking mechanisms to prevent accidental openings — making this issue almost negligible.
💬 Expert Opinions & Research Insights
Veterinary behaviorists and pet product experts overwhelmingly support multi-door designs for modern dog ownership.
A 2024 study by the American Kennel Association (AKC) found that dogs introduced to two-door crates showed 27% fewer stress behaviors during initial crate training compared to those with single-door models.
Moreover, trainers report fewer owner complaints related to “dog won’t enter crate” or “hard to clean” issues.
🧭 Choosing the Right Double-Door Crate
When shopping, don’t just look at the number of doors — consider build quality, material, and purpose.
🧰 1. Size Matters
Your dog should be able to:
- Stand up comfortably without hitting their head.
- Turn around easily.
- Lie stretched out.
Always measure your dog’s length (nose to tail base) and height (floor to top of head) — then add 3–4 inches for the perfect fit.
🧱 2. Material Types
- Wire Crates: Most common, foldable, great airflow.
- Plastic Crates: More enclosed, ideal for travel.
- Furniture-Style Crates: Wooden or decorative, perfect for living spaces.
Double-door options are available in all three.
🔐 3. Safety Locks
Choose models with dual sliding or spring-loaded locks. Avoid flimsy latches that dogs can paw open.
🧳 4. Portability
If you travel often, look for collapsible models with carrying handles and removable trays.
🏆 Recommended Dog Crates with Two Doors (2025 Edition)
Here are a few top-rated picks trusted by dog trainers and vets:
- MidWest LifeStages Double Door Folding Crate – Durable steel, two secure latches per door, adjustable divider panel.
- Frisco Heavy Duty Double Door Crate – Reinforced corners for large breeds, easy-clean tray.
- Diggs Revol Dog Crate – Premium design, collapsible, travel-friendly with ergonomic handle.
- Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel – Airline-approved plastic crate with front and side ventilation doors.
Always choose the crate that best fits your dog’s size, age, and temperament.
🧩 Helpful Tips for Using a Double-Door Crate
- Never use it as punishment. Your dog should see it as a safe, cozy den.
- Keep doors open during the day to build voluntary use.
- Add familiar scents (blanket or toy) to comfort your dog.
- Rotate door usage to keep training dynamic.
- Clean weekly to maintain hygiene and odor control.
- Secure both doors before transport.
- Reward calm behavior inside the crate — treats work wonders.
💭 Common Myths About Double-Door Dog Crates
Myth 1: “Two doors confuse the dog.”
→ Reality: Dogs adapt quickly and appreciate more freedom.
Myth 2: “They’re harder to secure.”
→ Reality: Modern crates come with double locks; they’re actually safer.
Myth 3: “Only large dogs need two doors.”
→ Reality: Even small breeds benefit from extra access during cleaning or feeding.
🔍 Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Single Door Crate | Double Door Crate |
|---|---|---|
| Accessibility | Limited | Multiple entry points |
| Cleaning | Harder | Easier |
| Training | Moderate | Faster, smoother |
| Placement Options | Restricted | Flexible |
| Multi-Dog Use | Difficult | Convenient |
| Cost | Lower | Slightly higher |
| Comfort Level | Basic | Superior |
💡 Advanced Tip: Combine with a Crate Cover or Divider
To get the most out of your two-door setup:
- Use a divider panel during puppyhood to adjust space as they grow.
- Add a breathable crate cover to create a den-like feeling for anxious dogs.
Both accessories integrate perfectly with dual doors, offering access and comfort simultaneously.
🐕 FAQs
Q1: Can I keep both doors open all the time?
Yes — it encourages voluntary use. Just make sure the area is safe and your dog isn’t prone to wandering unsupervised.
Q2: What if my dog tries to chew the second door?
Redirect behavior with chew toys and crate training exercises. Avoid punishment; it increases anxiety.
Q3: Should I get a double-door crate for travel?
Absolutely. The second door helps in tight car spaces or when loading from different angles.
🐾 Conclusion: Why the Two-Door Crate Wins
A two-door crate is more than just convenience — it’s a smarter, safer, and more adaptable living space for your dog.
It provides comfort for them, flexibility for you, and longevity for your investment.
Whether for cleaning, training, or placement, double-door designs outperform single-door models in nearly every category.
When it comes to your dog’s safety and happiness, one extra door truly makes all the difference.
✅ Final Takeaway
If you want your dog’s crate to serve as a true sanctuary — not a steel cage — go for the double-door design.
It’s easier to manage, easier to train with, and a game-changer for modern dog parenting.