French Bulldogs are compact, muscular, and affectionate companions, but their unique needs—such as sensitivity to heat and moderate exercise tolerance—mean that crate choice matters. The right crate ensures they stay safe, comfortable, and happy whether at home, on the go, or during training.
Who This Helps: French Bulldog owners seeking safe, size-appropriate crates for training, travel, or daily living.
Last Updated: 2025-08-16
What You’ll Learn
- The ideal crate size for French Bulldogs.
- Pros and cons of different crate types.
- Expanded product recommendations for the best crates available.
- FAQs addressing sizing, training, and safety.
Overview & Definitions
A dog crate provides a safe space for dogs to rest, travel, and train. French Bulldogs—affectionately known as “Frenchies”—typically weigh 16–28 pounds and stand around 11–12 inches tall.
Because they are prone to overheating and have brachycephalic (short-nosed) breathing challenges, the ideal crate for a French Bulldog should offer:
- Proper size (snug but not cramped).
- Ventilation to prevent overheating.
- Safety and comfort with secure latches and soft bedding.
- Portability for vet visits, car rides, or home storage.
What to Look for in a French Bulldog Crate
- Size: Adult French Bulldogs usually fit best in a 30–36 inch crate (length), with a width of 18–24 inches and height of 19–25 inches. Always measure your dog nose-to-tail and floor-to-head, then add 2–4 inches.
- Ventilation: Wire crates or crates with mesh sides are excellent to keep Frenchies cool.
- Durability: Even though Frenchies aren’t usually escape artists, their compact strength means you’ll still want a sturdy build.
- Comfort: Smooth edges, leak-proof trays, and optional divider panels help with puppy training.
- Portability: Collapsible or lightweight crates work well for owners who travel often with their Frenchie.
Key Takeaway: Prioritize correct sizing and ventilation above all else to protect your French Bulldog’s health.
Types of Crates & Their Pros and Cons
Wire Crates
- Pros: Best airflow, strong visibility, foldable, easy to clean.
- Cons: May feel too open for anxious dogs.
- Best For: Home training, indoor daily use.
Plastic (Hard-Sided) Crates
- Pros: Enclosed, cozy, travel-friendly, often airline-approved.
- Cons: Limited airflow, harder to clean, bulkier.
- Best For: Travel, dogs needing more privacy.
Soft-Sided Crates
- Pros: Lightweight, portable, quick setup.
- Cons: Not durable for chewers or restless dogs.
- Best For: Vet visits, car rides, calm dogs.
Furniture-Style Crates
- Pros: Stylish, blends with décor, doubles as furniture.
- Cons: Expensive, not for destructive dogs, bulky.
- Best For: Owners prioritizing home aesthetics and calm, crate-trained Frenchies.
Top Recommended Crates for French Bulldogs
1. MidWest iCrate Double Door Fold & Carry Wire Crate
Overview:
A classic wire crate trusted by pet owners for decades, this option is foldable, easy to clean, and comes with a divider panel for growing puppies.
Features:
- Sizes up to 36 inches (ideal for French Bulldogs).
- Double-door access for convenience.
- Leak-proof removable bottom tray.
- Foldable for storage or travel.
Pros:
- Excellent airflow.
- Affordable and widely available.
- Divider makes it grow with puppies.
Cons:
- Not escape-proof (but Frenchies rarely test limits).
- Less privacy without a crate cover.
Best For: Owners who want a budget-friendly, practical, and everyday training crate.
2. Frisco 3-Door Soft-Sided Indoor/Outdoor Crate
Overview:
This lightweight soft crate provides comfort and portability, with three mesh doors that give plenty of ventilation. Perfect for travel or temporary containment.
Features:
- Made with a steel frame and durable fabric.
- Multiple entry points for easy access.
- Collapsible for storage.
Pros:
- Extremely portable and lightweight.
- Mesh windows allow airflow and visibility.
- Easy setup and fold-down design.
Cons:
- Not for dogs that chew or scratch aggressively.
- Less durable than wire or plastic crates.
Best For: Calm French Bulldogs, travel, short trips, and vet visits.
3. Merry Products 2-in-1 Furniture-Style Crate and Gate
Overview:
A multifunctional crate that doubles as both a dog crate and a wooden gate. It blends seamlessly into home décor while still functioning as a secure resting space.
Features:
- Stylish wood finish with wire sides.
- Convertible into a gate to block off areas.
- Removable plastic tray for easy cleaning.
Pros:
- Attractive design that doubles as furniture.
- Dual-purpose function (crate and gate).
- Comfortable interior for small breeds.
Cons:
- More expensive than standard crates.
- Not suitable for dogs that chew or scratch heavily.
Best For: Owners who want a decorative and functional crate for well-behaved French Bulldogs.
4. KindTail Pawd Collapsible Plastic Crate
Overview:
A modern take on the traditional plastic crate, the KindTail Pawd is collapsible, lightweight, and provides a cozy den-like environment.
Features:
- Unique foldable design for storage.
- Plastic frame with ventilation slats.
- Easy to clean with removable parts.
Pros:
- Lightweight and stylish.
- Collapsible for easy storage.
- Provides privacy while maintaining airflow.
Cons:
- Higher price point.
- Limited size options (best suited for small dogs like Frenchies).
Best For: Travel and stylish home setups where space-saving is a priority.
5. Lucky Dog Sliding Double Door Wire Crate (Compact Series)
Overview:
A wire crate designed with convenience in mind, featuring sliding doors that save space in smaller homes or apartments.
Features:
- Sliding doors for easy entry/exit.
- Rust-resistant steel frame.
- Removable bottom tray.
Pros:
- Space-saving design.
- Durable steel construction.
- Easy to clean.
Cons:
- Heavier than soft or plastic crates.
- Still less cozy than enclosed crates.
Best For: Indoor use where space is tight, and owners want durability with easy access.
Size Guide for French Bulldogs
- Puppies: Start with a 24–30 inch crate and use a divider to resize as they grow.
- Adults: Most adult French Bulldogs do well with a 30–36 inch crate (length).
- Measuring Tip: Measure nose-to-tail and floor-to-top of head. Add 2–4 inches for length and 1–2 inches for height.
FAQs
Q: What size crate is best for a French Bulldog?
A: Typically a 30–36 inch crate is ideal, depending on your Frenchie’s measurements.
Q: Which crate type is safest for French Bulldogs?
A: Wire crates are safest for airflow, but plastic crates are useful for travel. Soft-sided crates are best for short-term use.
Q: Are French Bulldogs escape artists?
A: Not usually. They are more likely to enjoy lounging, but sturdy latches are still recommended.
Q: How long can a French Bulldog stay in a crate?
A: Puppies should only be crated for a few hours at a time. Adults can be crated for up to 4–6 hours, but daily exercise and interaction are essential.
Q: Should I cover my French Bulldog’s crate?
A: Yes, if your dog prefers a den-like environment. However, ensure plenty of airflow to avoid overheating.
Sources & Evidence
- Breed size and crate size guidelines from veterinary and breed experts.
- Crate training practices endorsed by animal behavior specialists.
- Product recommendations gathered from trusted pet care reviews and industry insights.
About the Author
Emily Wilson is a licensed physical therapist and experienced pet care writer. She specializes in health, wellness, and breed-specific guidance, bringing evidence-based, practical advice to help dog owners make confident choices.
Final Takeaway
For French Bulldogs, the MidWest iCrate is the most practical choice for training and everyday home use. For stylish homes, the Merry Products furniture-style crate doubles as décor. For portability and short trips, the Frisco Soft-Sided Crate or KindTail Pawd Collapsible Crate offer flexibility. Always choose a size that allows comfort without excess space, and prioritize airflow to keep your Frenchie safe.