Best Time to Buy Dog Crates (2026 Guide)
Save 30-50% on dog crates by timing your purchase right. Here's exactly when to buy.
Did you know that dog crate prices can swing 30-50% throughout the year? By strategically timing your purchase, you can save a significant amount of money. This guide will break down the best times to buy dog crates, month by month, so you can maximize your savings. Whether you need a small carrier for your puppy or a large, heavy-duty crate for your Great Dane, we'll help you decide when to pull the trigger and when to wait.
Executive Summary
The best time to buy dog crates is during Amazon Prime Day in July or Black Friday in November, with savings of 30-50% off regular prices. If you can't wait, look for deals during pet store sales events in January and August.
Why Timing Matters
Dog crate prices fluctuate significantly based on sales cycles and demand. For example, a mid-range crate that normally sells for $80 might drop to $40 during Prime Day. By waiting just a few weeks, you could pocket $40 or more. Manufacturers often release new models in spring and fall, prompting discounts on older versions. Understanding these patterns helps you avoid paying full price.
Best Time to Buy: Prime Day (July) and Black Friday (November)
Expected Savings: 30-50%
Amazon Prime Day in July is a massive sales event where dog crates often see deep discounts, sometimes up to 50% off. Black Friday and Cyber Monday in November are equally aggressive, with many retailers competing for your business. These two periods historically offer the lowest prices of the year on pet supplies, including crates. Stock up then and save big.
What to Expect:
- Lightning deals on popular crate brands like MidWest and Frisco
- Up to 50% off select dog crates
- Bundled deals (crate + bed + bowls)
- Free shipping on Prime Day (with Prime membership)
- Price matching by major retailers (PetSmart, Chewy)
- Limited stock on best-sellers, so act fast
- Crate accessories also on sale
Alternative: January Clearance and August Back-to-Pet Sales
In January, retailers clear out holiday inventory, often discounting dog crates by 20-40%. August sees promotions for back-to-school that include pet products as families prepare for new routines. While not as low as Prime Day, these are still solid savings.
Worst Time to Buy
Avoid buying dog crates in the weeks leading up to major pet adoption events like National Adopt a Dog Month (October) or during peak moving season (May-June). Prices are often at full retail. Also, avoid buying immediately before Prime Day or Black Friday when retailers may inflate prices to make discounts look bigger. Expect to pay 20-30% more during these periods.
Month-by-Month Breakdown
Recommended Products
1. MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Single Door & Double Door Folding Metal Dog Crate
The MidWest iCrate is the go-to choice for many dog owners. It features a durable, easy-to-assemble metal frame that folds flat for storage. The single door design has a patented slide-bolt latch for security. Perfect for house training and travel. This crate comes in multiple sizes for small to giant breeds. During Prime Day, it often drops to under $40.
Best Time to Buy: Best time to buy: Prime Day or Black Friday, save up to 50%.
2. Petmate Sky Kennel for Dogs and Cats
The Petmate Sky Kennel is the classic airline-compliant crate for pet travel. Made from durable, high-impact plastic, it meets most airline requirements. The wire door with strong latch ensures security, and the ventilation panels provide airflow. Perfect for flying with your pet. Sizes from small to extra-large.
Best Time to Buy: Look for deals during travel-focused sales or Prime Day.
3. Frisco Heavy Duty Dog Crate with Single Door, Fold & Carry
The Frisco Heavy Duty Crate is designed for dogs that are strong or anxious chewers. It features heavy-gauge steel bars, a reinforced door, and a secure locking system. The bottom pan is removable for easy cleaning. This crate is available in sizes for medium to large dogs. It's an excellent value for those needing extra strength without a premium price tag.
Best Time to Buy: Best during Black Friday or Chewy's holiday sales.
4. PawHut 36'' Wooden Dog Crate End Table with Door Lock
The PawHut Wooden Dog Crate is a beautiful piece of furniture that blends with your home decor. Made from solid wood, it features a top surface that can hold a lamp or books. The front door has a lock for safety, and the crate includes a removable, washable cushion. Ideal for dog owners who want a crate that doesn't look like a cage.
Best Time to Buy: Best time to buy: January clearance or Black Friday for up to 40% off.
5. EliteField 4-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate
The EliteField Soft Dog Crate is a lightweight, collapsible crate ideal for camping, road trips, and indoor use. It features four doors for easy access, mesh windows for ventilation, and a durable fabric construction. The crate folds flat for storage. Available in multiple sizes and colors. Perfect for calm dogs that don't chew.
Best Time to Buy: Great deal during summer travel sales or Prime Day.
6. Ruff 'n Ruffus 36" Double Door Metal Dog Crate
The Ruff 'n Ruffus Double Door Dog Crate is a sturdy metal crate with front and side doors. It includes a divider panel for growing puppies, a removable ABS plastic pan, and a secure locking system. The crate is easy to assemble and folds flat. Available in many sizes. A great mid-range option.
Best Time to Buy: Best time: Prime Day or Black Friday for 20-40% off.
7. Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel for Dogs and Cats
The Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel is a rugged, airline-approved plastic crate designed for high-traffic travel. It features reinforced steel wiring, a secure door latch, and ventilation slots. The two-piece design allows for easy storage. This kennel comes in sizes from small to giant. Ideal for both car and air travel.
Best Time to Buy: Check for discounts during travel deals or Prime Day.
8. Amazon Basics Double Door Dog Crate with Divider
The Amazon Basics Double Door Dog Crate offers a budget-friendly solution with front and side doors. It includes a divider panel for puppy training, a removable plastic pan, and a fold-flat design. Available in multiple sizes. This crate is a great entry-level choice for new dog owners.
Best Time to Buy: Best time: Prime Day or Cyber Monday for extra savings.
9. ProSelect Empire Dog Crate - Heavy Duty, Chrome
The ProSelect Empire Crate is built like a tank. Made from heavy-gauge chrome-plated steel, it features a reinforced door with a strong lock. It's designed for large, powerful, or aggressive dogs that can damage standard crates. The crate is welded at all joints for maximum strength. Not for the faint of wallet, but worth it for extreme cases.
Best Time to Buy: Rarely discounted; try Black Friday for up to 20% off.
10. Diggs Rev Crate - Modern Wooden Dog Crate
The Diggs Rev Crate is a premium, stylish crate that looks like a piece of furniture. It's made from engineered wood with a sleek design, featuring a hidden locking mechanism, a removable water dish, and a collapsible design for storage. This crate is ideal for design-conscious owners who want the best for their dog.
Best Time to Buy: Rarely discounted; best chance during Black Friday or direct sales.
11. Frisco Folding Metal Dog Crate with Single Door
The Frisco Single Door Metal Crate is a compact, foldable crate perfect for areas where a double door is unnecessary. It features a secure slide-bolt latch, a removable pan, and a divider panel for puppies. Available in multiple sizes. A solid choice for house training.
Best Time to Buy: Prime Day and Black Friday see significant discounts.
12. Merax 36'' Double Door Wire Dog Crate with Divider
The Merax Double Door Wire Crate is a sturdy alternative to the MidWest iCrate. It includes both front and side doors, a divider panel, and a removable plastic tray. The crate folds flat for storage. This is a well-reviewed option for those who want double doors at a slightly lower price.
Best Time to Buy: Watch for Lightning Deals during Prime Day.
Pricing Strategies
Wait for Prime Day/Black Friday
- Add desired crate to Amazon wishlist. 2. Set a price alert on CamelCamelCamel. 3. Check deals early on Prime Day/Black Friday. 4. Buy immediately if price drops to target.
Buy Last Year's Model
- Identify when new models are announced. 2. Check warehouse deals and clearance sections. 3. Compare specs to ensure compatibility.
Use Warehouse Deals
- Visit Amazon Warehouse Deals page. 2. Filter by 'Dog Crates'. 3. Examine condition notes. 4. Purchase with confidence (Amazon return policy applies).
Stack Coupons & Cashback
- Install browser extension like Honey or Rakuten. 2. Check for coupon codes. 3. Use a cashback credit card. 4. Combine with sale prices.
Buy Off-Season
- Wait until January or August. 2. Check major retailers. 3. Look for clearance items. 4. Buy immediately.
Subscribe & Save
- Set up Subscribe & Save on Amazon. 2. Combine with 5 or more items for 15% discount. 3. Pause or cancel after delivery.
If You Need It Now
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Bottom Line
The best time to buy a dog crate is during Amazon Prime Day (July) or Black Friday (November), with savings of 30-50%. If you miss those, aim for January clearance or August back-to-school sales. Avoid buying during peak demand periods like October (National Adopt a Dog Month) or before major sales. Use price tracking tools to ensure you're getting a true deal. With a little patience, you can save $20-100 on your next crate purchase.
FAQ
When is the absolute best time to buy dog crates?
Amazon Prime Day in July and Black Friday in November offer the deepest discounts, typically 30-50% off.
What's the worst time to buy dog crates?
The weeks leading up to Prime Day or Black Friday, and during peak adoption months like October, when prices are often at full retail.
How much can I save by waiting for Prime Day?
You can save $20-$50 on a standard crate, and up to $100 on premium models.
Are Black Friday deals on dog crates really that good?
Yes, many retailers offer 40-50% off select crates, often matching Prime Day prices.
Should I wait for Prime Day or Black Friday?
Both are excellent. Prime Day is better if you need the crate in summer, Black Friday for winter. Deals are comparable.
What if I need a dog crate right now?
Check Amazon Warehouse Deals for open-box savings, or buy used locally. Some retailers like PetSmart may price match if you find a lower price.
How do I track prices for dog crates?
Use CamelCamelCamel for Amazon price history and set alerts. Keepa is another great tool.
Are refurbished dog crates worth it?
Not common for crates, but open-box from Amazon can be a good value. Ensure all parts are included.
When do new dog crate models come out?
New models are often released in spring and fall, leading to discounts on older versions.
How much do dog crate prices vary throughout the year?
Prices can fluctuate 30-50%, with lows in July and November, and highs in pre-holiday periods.
Are there any specific pet store sales I should know about?
Chewy and PetSmart have regular sales, but their best discounts align with national sale events.
What size crate should I buy?
Measure your dog's length and height, and add 4-6 inches. Common sizes: 24'' for small breeds, 30'' for medium, 36'' for large, 42''+ for giant.
Can I use Subscribe & Save for dog crates?
Only for non-crate items like bedding or food. Crates are one-time purchases.
Do dog crates ever go on clearance after Christmas?
Yes, January clearance sales offer 20-40% off leftover stock.
Quick Summary
- 📦Category:
Dog Crates