The Shih Tzu is perhaps one of the most loveable toy dogs around.
Standing between eight and eleven inches tall, don’t let their small demeanor fool you, these little dogs have big hearts!
With lusciously long locks and quiet nature, when finding a crate for your best friend – it’s important to make sure that it ticks all of the boxes.
Best Dog Crates for Shih Tzus
We’ll be judging each crate on criteria that will be especially important to owners of this longhaired breed, and announcing a winner at the very end!
1. MidWest iCrate
MidWest iCrate
3 used from $25.88
Features
- ICrate the 'All Inclusive Dog Crate' includes free divider panel, durable dog tray, carrying handle, 4 'roller' feet to protect floors & the Midwest quality guarantee 1 year warranty
- Small double door folding dog crate ideal for dog breeds w/ adult weight of 11 to 25 pounds | Convenient divider panel allows crate to expand as your dog grows | iCrate measures 24 length x 18 width x 19 height inches
- Your dog's home while you're away from home. Durable design creates a safe place for your pet while you're away & caters to your dog’s natural “den” instincts
- Safe & Secure Home: Heavy duty slide bolt latch firmly locks dog crate door in place, keeping your dog safely inside their dog crate. Wire spacing - 1.5 x 5 inches
- Easy assembly & Portable Design: Sets up in seconds w/ no tools required for assembly & folds flat for convenient storage or travel; Roller feet protect hardwoods, make repositioning easy
The Midwest iCrate was designed with safety in mind; this two-door crate features secure slide-bolt latches to keep your four-legged-friend as safe as can be
Made from durable, fully waterproof materials, you can use this foldable dog crate inside or out.
With a lipped slide-out tray for easy cleaning that also sits flush to the edges, you don’t have to worry about little paws, or long hair getting trapped.
One of our favorite features of this crate is the removable dividing partition.
When it comes down to choosing the best size crate for your Shih Tzu, this can be difficult when they’re still growing.
Ensuring that your dog is in a correctly sized crate not only increases their comfort, it also aids you with housetraining, and doesn’t take up too much space in your home.
When you first welcome your Shih Tzu puppy home, you can simply put the divider in place to create a space that is the perfect size, and as he grows – simply move it over bit by bit!
A great addition that will save dog owners the expense of having to buy multiple crates as their dog grows.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Foldable
- Lightweight
- Quick Assembly
- Multi-door option
Cons
- Not durable enough for dogs that really try to escape their crate for Shih Tzu
- Determined escape artists can open latch
- Metal can bend
Why We Recommend
We love the removable divider of the MidWest iCrate!
2. 2PET Foldable
Features
- ALL-IN-ONE FOLDABLE DOG CRATE – If you’re looking to buy a foldable dog crate that combines all the functionality with a touch of class & innovation, 2PET Fold-A-Crate is the perfect choice – All-in-One dog crate for indoor, outdoor, training & travel purposes – Refer to the size chart for size details
- STRONG STEEL TUBE DESIGN – Unlike many other flimsy & makeshift dog crates out there, Fold-A-Crate uses a strong yet lightweight steel tube design that can be folded/unfolded in a jiffy – Includes a top handle to convert it into a fully-functional pet carrier
- WASHABLE SOFT FABRIC COVER – The steel frame is covered with a water resistant, soft Oxford 600D fabric cover (a nylon variant) that is fully removable & machine washable – The new & improved design includes full frontal zipper that dogs can’t easily chew to bits
- PERFECT VENTILATION, MESH PANEL WINDOWS – Thanks to the well-designed bone-shaped windows & mesh panels, this foldable dog crate maintains perfect natural ventilation – This kennel comes with a waterproof mat for the floor of the crate reversible washable fleece cushion pad
- DOING THE RIGHT THING – Being absolute pet lovers, we donate a portion of sales to various pet shelters & charities – With a 1-year warranty against manufacturing faults in place, your orders are safe & secure – Click ‘Add to Cart’ & order the best, multipurpose foldable dog crate right away
The 2PET Foldable provides the strength of a metal crate and the comfort of a fabric one!
A nice cozy spot for your Shih Tzu, and compared to many ugly dog crates – this one looks perfectly smart.
This aesthetically pleasing doggy crate will fit in with most home decors and has the added benefit of being suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
Pack it up for Christmas visits to the family as a great way to keep Fido safe from the many little kids who are desperate to pet him!
Or just pop it in the car ready for a picnic at the park this weekend for a shady spot for your Shih Tzu to nap in comfort.
Your dog will love the included fleece cushion, and you’ll love the fact that it’s machine washable.
Pros
- Steel tube frame
- Machine washable fabric cover
- Washable fleece cushion included
- Comes with an easy-clean waterproof pad
Cons
- Not durable enough for incredibly exuberant canines
- Sizes can vary slightly from measurements
- Takes a bit of wiggling to assemble the very first time
Why We Recommend
The 2Pet Foldable combines security and comfort.
3. ProValu
Features
- Designed for fashion forward small dog breeds and puppies with a long lasting, rust-resistant, baby pink electro-coat finish
- Included divider panel changes crate according to a puppy's changing size and removable slide-out plastic pan makes cleanups easier
- Easy carrying handle and foldable design makes crate easy to store and transport
- Added safety latches, Hartco clips, and rounded corners keep pets safely contained
- Dimensions: 24"(Length) x 18"(Width) x 19"(Height) + Free removable plastic pan + Easy carrying handle + Free adjustable divider panel
The ProValu is the cutest on our list!
It comes in baby pink and baby blue for your little Shih Tzu to stand out from the crowd.
We especially love the idea of dog show parents having this colorful crate!
No longer will you run the risk of losing your crate, or getting confused as to which is yours – with these brightly colored creations!
More than just something pretty to look at, this crate is made of a robust metal with long-lasting rust-resistant finish.
Easy to move and clean with easy-grip handles, and slide-out plastic tray!
This crate is ideal for younger dogs as it features a removable divider panel to use while your dog grows into the crate.
Really easy to put up, and put away, taking only a minute or two for one person!
Pros
- Easy and quick assembly
- Waterproof
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Cute design, stand out from the crowd
- Two way opening for easier positioning in your home
Cons
- Not the strongest metal so not ideal for larger than Toy breeds
- Doors can stick and fall out of alignment
Why We Recommend
Unique colors, never lose your crate again.
4. ToysOpoly
Features
- ✅ SUPERIOR VALUE: 1 Large Pet Playpen + Removable Top Zipper + Waterproof Bottom Zipper + Manual/instruction + BONUS: 4 Stainless Steel Anchors.
- ✅ YOUR PET’S SECOND HOME - Your pets will fall in love with this large, spacious tent! They will grow accustomed to it and even treat it as their second home! You can really personalize your pet’s tents by adding in blankets, comforters, and chew toys!
- ✅ NO ASSEMBLY REQUIRED, EASY STORAGE- Pops up in seconds with no need for any assembly. Folds flat when not in use for easy carrying and storing.
- ✅ NEWLY DESIGN MODEL 2018: Roomy 8-Panel design with protected seams and reinforced corners. Made from durable water-resistant materials. Removable zippered top can be removed easily removed for indoor use & closed for outdoor use to provide shade. Zippered door provides easy in/out access for your pet. Close the door to keep your pet safely inside.
- ✅ YOUR PET’S SAFETY IS IMPORTANT TO US. All products are exhaustively and Independently Third-Party Lab Tested. Certified Non-Toxic our Engineering Learning Set is BPA-Safe, Lead-Safe and Phthalates-Safe. They also come with a 100% Money Back Guarantee.
The ToysOpoly makes a nice change from the regular crates we see.
Amazingly spacious for the more playful pups out there, this crate is ideal for multi Shih Tzu households.
This quirky dog pen can not only be used in the house but outside in the yard too.
With four ground stakes for additional stability against the elements!
With a waterproof floor panel, it’s perfect for putting on wet grass, or saving your hardwood floors from any little accidents!
This crate size-wise is one of the best crates for Shih Tzu’s that like to play a lot, but also – it’s surprisingly light and easy to travel with.
Pop-up assembly takes seconds, and it even comes with its own travel bag.
For owners that love hitting the road in their RV, this is our favorite option; the ToysOpoly can create additional weatherproof space for your pets, with plenty of airflow, shade, and rain protection.
Pros
- Almost instant assembly
- Waterproof floor protection
- Spacious design
- Lightweight
- Suitable for multiple dogs
- Ground stakes for outdoor use
Cons
- Difficult to fit back into the storage bag
- Not as strong as metal crates
- This wouldn’t be ideal for constant outdoor use in cold climates
Why We Recommend
Ideal for playful pets, and frequent travel.
5. Mr. Peanut’s
Mr. Peanut's
Features
- PLEASE NOTE INTERIOR SIZING & PET MEASURING GUIDELINES BEFORE PURCHASE - Best Fits Pets up to 16"Lx9"H and up to 15lbs. Airline capable carriers are designed for pets lying down, so your pet may not be able to stand. It is best to measure your pet while comfortably laying down, as that is the typical position during flight
- PLEASE KEEP IN MIND that we show the exterior dimensions as well as approximate interior dimensions to best portray the usable interior space for your pet. The interior space will be less than exterior due to the fabric thickness and plush faux fleece padding. The rounded contours of the tote design means interior dimensions are approximate and shown at their maximum measured points
- AIRLINE REQUIREMENTS - Always keep in mind each airline sets their own specific requirements, and they can even vary from their domestic, international, and shuttle services so it is always advised to check with your airline of choice. All will require your pet to be comfortable in the carrier, and to remain under the seat in front of you. All prefer a soft sided carrier for its adjustability and we have designed our carrier to comply with major airline configurations
- STRONG & WATERPROOF - Weighing in at only 2.7 lbs, Designed with Breathable Mesh on all Sides for Proper Ventilation * Removable Fleece Travel Bed with Plywood Base for Additional Support * Padded Shoulder Strap * Name Tag * Zippered Mesh Storage for Treats, Meds Papers * Seatbelt Attachments * Included Mr. Peanut's Cool Logo Storage Pouch, Folds to 3" for storage
- DESIGNED WITH with a Ventilated Top to meet all airline regulations of under forward seat compatibility including Delta, Southwest, United, American, Virgin and others
This easy carry dog travel pod is one of our top picks in our best crate for Shih Tzu list!
Approved by most airlines for in-cabin travel, this lightweight, wipe clean crate features not one, but two fleece linings – ideal for long air journeys when accidents might be inevitable!
With multiple mesh panels, your dog will be well ventilated.
But, if he gets nervous, you can simply pop the roof closed with the smart magnet panel to help him feel safe and cozy!
Made from Oxford fabric, this crate is built to last, with a handy storage pocket for easy carrying of treats, poop bags, and leads.
Not only is this crate great for on the go, but it folds down to pack flat when not in use.
Perfect for apartments, or for keeping in the trunk of the car.
Pros
- Two x removable fleece bed inserts
- Multiple mesh windows for superior ventilation
- Waterproof outer
- Wipe clean
- Durable Oxford fabric
- Storage pocket
- Locks with strong plastic buckles
- Magnetic roof panel
- Removable shoulder strap with padding
Cons
- No option to leave the doors open
- Might not be the most calming for nosy pups who like to peek out the mesh constantly
- The mesh can be bitten through and scratched if you have a determined dog
Why We Recommend
Easy carry, and cozy for your pooch.
Bottom Line
Our stand out winner was the 2Pet Foldable Carrier With a unique design, strong, durable structure, and easy access – this is bound to be a winner with your Shih Tzu!
Coming in a small size, this is the perfect size for your adult Shih Tzu, and by adding the divider panel, can also be the ideal size for your Shih Tzu puppy!
![5 Best Dog Crates for Shih Tzus in [2021]](https://dogstruggles.com/wp-content/uploads/thumbs_dir/nail_clippers_poodles_dogstruggles-orwa7mlx81kdan0c6trbmpjycz0xohkryv5ztihyrg.jpg)
![5 Best Dog Crates for Shih Tzus in [2021]](https://dogstruggles.com/wp-content/uploads/thumbs_dir/shampoo_for_french_bulldog_dogstruggles-orwa7mlx81kdan0c6trbmpjycz0xohkryv5ztihyrg.jpg)
Sarah Robinson
Dr Sarah Robinson attended veterinary school at Oklahoma State University receiving a D.V.M. in 2008. Sarah’s longtime interest is to help people to better communicate with their pet companions, and in doing so, to help them to strengthen their relationships with their dogs and cats. Sarah has published numerous articles on canine feeding in pet related magazines, veterinary journals and leading natural health web sites.
