How To Fold A Dog Crate (3 Steps)

Quick Summary

• To fold a wire dog crate, close all the doors then allow it to collapse inside once you release the tabs. Repeat the process on the other side, then fold both sides of the crate and allow them to rest on top of one another. Finally, secure the wire crate by using the hook located at the very bottom. 
• Make sure there is nothing inside the crate when you fold it.
• It is also important to clean the dog crate first before folding it.

Most people, I included, consider dog crates essential in their arsenal of tools to take care of their dogs. Dog crates are convenient at home and can even be used on the go as you travel. 

I travel a lot with my dogs, so knowing exactly how to fold a dog crate for my trunk is certainly helpful. If want to know how, you’ve come to the right place. My guide will help you understand how to fold a dog crate with ease. I will give you all the steps for each type of dog crate so you are informed. 

Collapsible Dog Crates Are Convenient

If you travel regularly with your pooch, a collapsible dog crate is going to be highly convenient. These dog crates allow you to take your dog on the road safely. A folded crate is also easier to carry around than a bulky cage that cannot be collapsed. Whether it’s an impromptu road trip or a family vacation, knowing how to fold a dog crate is important for you and your furry friend. 

In this article, I will teach you how to fold the two most common types of dog crates. You will learn how to fold the wired and soft-sided dog crates. So, without further ado, let’s get started. 

Easy Step-By-Step Guide to Folding a Dog Crate

There are a few different ways you can fold a dog crate, depending on the type. I will try to address all the different ways so you will have the information you need for choosing the easiest method for you. The following steps will help you fold a dog crate without any trouble. 

Step One: What Kind of Dog Crate Do You Own?

Before you can learn how to fold your dog crate, you need to know what type you have. There are five types of kennels, but the best dog crate is the one that suits your dog perfectly. Some of them can be folded and some cannot. The following offers a description of each type. 

Folding Wire Dog Crates

This is one of the most common types of dog crates. Just about everyone has owned one of these at one time in their lives. 

Many owners like this style of dog crate because it offers an unobstructed view, plenty of airflows, and is available in multiple sizes. Folding wire crates is also very easy. 

Plastic Dog Crates

You may also own a plastic dog crate. These crates are typically made of thick and durable plastic, but they are not for very large dogs. Most plastic crates are meant to hold small to medium-sized dogs. 

This type of dog crate does not have the airflow value a wire crate offers, but some dogs prefer feeling secluded when they are sleeping. 

Soft-Sided Dog Crates

If you own a soft-sided dog crate, you likely know it is not for newly trained dogs. These crates are typically made of Nylon and mesh, and dogs can easily chew through them if they want out badly enough. 

Soft crates are a type of dog crate best suited for small or medium dogs. You will find a soft dog crate easy to fold and lightweight which is perfect for travel. 

Heavy-Duty Dog Crates

If you have a big dog, you are going to need a big crate. A heavy-duty dog crate is in order for any larger dog. These crates are made of the most durable of materials. They can hold massive dogs, but they are on the more expensive side. 

Furniture Dog Crates

Finally, we have come to the furniture dog crate. These are also sometimes referred to as fashion dog crates. They are meant to blend in well with your home’s decor so the dog crate looks like a part of the design instead of standing out like a sore thumb. 

These dog crates are typically made of wood or rattan, and they are used as side tables or accent tables in a home. This type of dog crate is one of the most expensive. 

Step Two: Clean the Dog Crate

No matter which type of dog crate you own, you are going to need to learn to clean it correctly before you attempt to fold it up for travel or storage. Here are the steps for cleaning your dog crate. 

Remove Everything

Remove all the toys, blankets, food and water bowls, and bedding. The dog crate should be entirely empty. 

Wash the Bedding

If your dog crate has bedding or soft stuffed toys, this is a great time to throw them in the wash for a good cleaning. It’s a good idea to use a pet bedding wash to ensure no soaps irritate your dog. 

Elbow Grease

You are going to need to put in a little bit of elbow grease to scrub your dog crate clean. I take my dog’s crate outside in the sun while I am cleaning it. Fresh air gets rid of those doggy odors and helps with the sanitizing process. 

No matter what type of cleaning solution you choose, make sure it does not contain ammonia. Ammonia is toxic to dogs. This chemical will affect your dog’s respiratory system and can irritate his eyes and nose. 

I have found plain dish soap, like Dawn, to be the best for scrubbing dog crates. You can also use a cup of white vinegar mixed with four liters of water. 

Step Three: Fold Your Dog Crate

Once your dog crate is cleaned, refreshed, and dry, it is time to learn how to fold it correctly. As I mentioned, there are three ways you can fold a dog crate. 

How to Fold a Wired Dog Crate

Folding a wired dog crate is not overly difficult as long as you follow the steps below in order. As always, refer to your specific manufacturer’s instructions before attempting to fold a dog crate. 

• Close all the doors on your dog crate, including the front and sides. 
• Find the tabs that secure the sides of your dog crate. 
• Press down on the tabs so they release. 
• Once you release the tabs, allow the dog crate to begin to collapse inside. 
• Make sure to repeat that process on the other side. 
• Fold both sides of the crate and allow them to rest on top of one another. 
• Make sure to secure the wire crate by using the hook located at the very bottom. 

How to Fold Soft-Sided Dog Crates

Soft-sided dog crates are extremely easy to collapse. If you have never tried to collapse one, follow these steps. 

• Find the collapsible points on the dog crate and push in on them so they start to collapse. 
• Push on both sides until they are resting together. 
• After collapsing the sides of the dog crate, use the straps to secure the crate in a folded position. 

How to Disassemble a Plastic Dog Crate

Although plastic dog crates do not fold like the other two types, they can be disassembled. You will need to unlock the latches on either side of the dog crate. Once you have unlocked both sides, the top can be separated from the bottom. You can stack these two pieces together to travel. 

What About Furniture Dog Crates?

Unfortunately, you cannot collapse or disassemble a furniture dog crate. These are typically solid wood furniture pieces that double as dog crates. If you need a portable dog crate, you would be wise to purchase a wired, soft-sided, or plastic dog crate. 

Tips For Getting Your Dog Accustomed to a Dog Crate

When you bring a new dog home, getting him accustomed to the proper bathroom and sleep habits often means having access to a dog crate. With a dog crate, you can confine your dog and keep him safe when you cannot be there to watch over him.

Crate training is not always easy [1]. I offer you the following tips to help ensure you prepare you and your dog for the process. 

• Make sure to start slowly. This is not a training process you can rush. 
• During your dog’s practice periods, make sure to give him a few treats here and there to show him your appreciation for his good behavior. 
• Make the dog crate as comfortable as possible for your dog. 
• Make sure to add your dog’s favorite toy. A familiar item, like his favorite toy, will make him feel more at home in his crate. 
• Put a blanket over the crate to remove any distractions that would make your dog want to get out. 
• Play a radio softly in the background to relax your dog. 
• NEVER use a dog crate as a form of punishment. 
• Unless you plan on leaving or putting your dog up for the night, never shut the door of his dog crate. Leave it open at all times to give him free access.

Be patient with your dog when he is learning to be in his crate. Some dogs take to dog crate training right away while others may not be so happy at first. The more comfortable and inviting you to make the crate, the better your dog will respond. A crate trained pup is a happy pup. Learn how to crate train a puppy properly!

FAQ Questions About How to Fold a Dog Crate

Although most dog crates come with instructions for folding them, you may no longer have the instructions. You may have never tried to fold your dog crate. You may also have questions about folding your dog crate. I am here to offer some of the most frequently asked questions and answers. 

1. How do you fold down a dog crate?

The way to fold a dog crate depends on the type. For wired dog crates, you will need to release the tabs on the sides and fold them in until the entire unit collapses. Sof-sided dog crates are easy to fold. Simply find the collapsible points and push them in. If you need to disassemble a plastic dog crate, undo the tabs on the sides and remove the top. Stack the two pieces together for travel. 

2. How do you fold a metal pet crate?

If you have a heavy-duty metal dog crate, I am sorry to say it is not foldable. If you have a metal wired dog crate, you will just need to find the tab on either side and release them both. Fold in the sides until the full unit collapses. You can collapse these for travel or for putting them away for storage. 

3. How do you disassemble an Amazon dog crate?

If you own an Amazon Basic soft-sided dog crate, it is simple to fold. All you need to do is push in on the collapsible corners. When you push in on these areas, the unit will immediately begin to collapse in on itself. You can then fold the sides in and strap them together for storage or for travel. 

4. How do you fold a canvas dog crate?

Canvas dog crates are one of the easiest types to fold. Because they are made of fabric, all you have to do is push in on the corners or sides and the dog crate will begin to collapse. Once collapsed, all you have to do is fold the unit. 

Is Your Dog Crate Foldable?

As I’ve said, all dog crates are not foldable. Heavy-duty dog crates and furniture models remain stationary. If you want a foldable dog crate, choose a wired or soft-sided model. Plastic dog crates will not fold, but you can disassemble them and stack the two pieces for easy travel. Check to see which dog crate you have. If it’s not foldable, you may want to consider purchasing one that offers this option.