Not all dog crates are created equal—and where you plan to use one makes a major difference. While indoor crates are typically designed for comfort and training, outdoor crates focus on durability, security, and weather resistance. If you’re unsure which type of crate your dog needs, understanding the differences can help you make the safest and smartest choice for your pet.

This guide covers the key distinctions between indoor and outdoor crates, their materials, safety features, use cases, and how to choose the right one for your dog’s lifestyle.

Why Environment Matters When Choosing a Crate

The space you plan to keep your dog’s crate—whether in a bedroom, backyard, garage, or RV—will determine what kind of crate is safest and most effective. According to the Humane Society of the United States, a dog’s crate should always feel secure, properly ventilated, and never expose the dog to extreme temperatures or stressful conditions.

This is why outdoor crates must meet a much higher threshold of weather protection and structural strength, while indoor crates are more focused on comfort and accessibility.

Key Differences Between Indoor and Outdoor Crates

Feature	Indoor Crates	Outdoor Crates
Materials	Wire, plastic, soft-sided	Welded steel, aluminum, weather-resistant plastic
Weatherproofing	Minimal	Essential – protection from sun, rain, wind
Security	Standard latches	Locking mechanisms, escape-proof latches
Comfort	Often includes bedding and soft liners	May require added insulation or shade covers
Use Case	House training, nighttime sleep, downtime	Kenneling, work dogs, supervised outdoor use
Portability	Often lightweight or collapsible	Heavier, built for permanent or semi-permanent setup

Indoor Crates: Designed for Comfort and Training

Indoor crates are typically wire, plastic, or soft-sided, and used in:

• Bedrooms
  
• Living rooms
  
• Kitchens
  
• Apartments
  

Benefits

• Lightweight and easy to move
  
• Better suited for housebreaking and behavioral training
  
• Aesthetically designed to blend with furniture
  
• Less expensive than heavy-duty options
  

Indoor crates are recommended by the American Kennel Club (AKC) for puppies learning house rules, senior dogs that need rest zones, and crate-trained pets who use their crate as a den.

Limitations

• Not designed to withstand wind, moisture, or direct sun
  
• Can be tipped or chewed if used unsupervised outside
  
• Wire and soft crates can be bent by strong or anxious dogs
  

Outdoor Crates: Built for Strength and Protection

Outdoor crates are designed for rugged, long-term use and are often used for:

• Kennel operations
  
• Hunting dogs
  
• Ranch or working dogs
  
• Dogs that spend time outside during the day
  

Benefits

• Made with heavy-duty steel, aluminum, or impact-resistant plastic
  
• Weatherproofed with UV and rust-resistant coatings
  
• Lockable and escape-proof doors
  
• Often bolted or weighted to stay in place
  

These crates are built to resist chewing, digging, and tampering, making them ideal for determined escape artists or environments with predators or high wind.

Limitations

• Heavier and more expensive
  
• Less portable
  
• Require shade, insulation, and supervision in extreme temperatures
  
• Less inviting for resting or long indoor naps without modifications
  

Important Note: Outdoor crates should never be used as long-term housing. Dogs left outdoors for extended periods are at risk of heatstroke, hypothermia, and emotional distress. Crates should always be placed in shaded, ventilated areas and used with supervision.

Choosing the Right Crate for Your Dog

To determine whether you need an indoor or outdoor crate—or possibly both—consider:

Primary Environment

Is your dog mostly indoors or outdoors during the day? If you need a crate for training, nighttime rest, or downtime inside, go with an indoor crate. If you need temporary containment outdoors for work or travel, consider an outdoor model.

Weather Conditions

If your dog will be crated outside in varying weather, you’ll need:

• A crate with rust-proof materials
  
• Wind and sun protection
  
• Optional crate covers or insulated walls
  

For cold climates, consider thermal pads or raised floors to prevent cold transfer from the ground.

Dog Behavior and Strength

• Soft or wire indoor crates may not hold up to a powerful dog or escape-prone pup
  
• For chewers or diggers, go with an aluminum or steel-frame crate that’s reinforced
  

Outdoor crates should be secure enough to prevent injury from panicked escape attempts, especially for high-anxiety breeds.

When to Use Both

In some cases, using both types of crates may be ideal:

• Indoor crate for sleep and downtime
  
• Outdoor crate for short outdoor sessions during the day
  

This setup works well for rural homes, hunting dogs, or families with active dogs who spend time outside but sleep indoors.

Safety Tips for Outdoor Crate Use

• Never use outdoor crates as punishment
  
• Always provide access to shade, fresh water, and proper airflow
  
• Avoid crating outdoors in temperatures below 45°F (7°C) or above 85°F (29°C)
  
• Clean crates regularly to prevent rust, pests, or health issues
  
• Supervise crated dogs or use outdoor crates only for brief periods
  

Conclusion

The difference between indoor and outdoor crates isn’t just about location—it’s about how they protect, support, and comfort your dog in different settings. Indoor crates offer convenience and comfort for daily routines, while outdoor crates must be built for strength, weather, and security.

Whichever you choose, make sure the crate is sized appropriately, built with safe materials, and used in a way that supports your dog’s physical and emotional well-being. For dogs that require both indoor rest and occasional outdoor containment, a dual-crate approach may offer the perfect balance.

Still unsure which type your dog needs? Start with crate training guidance from the Humane Society and crate selection tips from the AKC to make a confident, informed choice.