Last Updated on October, 2024
I saw how my dog escaped my previous cage, which startled me.
I was wondering what would happen to everything expensive in my house. It also got me worried about an upcoming trip — I had to cancel it.
Even if the reasons are different, I wanted what you want right now; a reliable inescapable, heavy-duty dog crate.
But why should you trust me?
Table of Contents
- Why Trust Me?
- 7 Best Heavy-Duty Dog Escape-Proof Dog Crates
- Buying Guide: Escape Proof & Heavy Duty Dog Crate
- Why Invest in an Escape-Proof, Heavy Duty Dog Crate?
- How to Measure Your Dog for Escape-Proof Heavy-Duty Dog Crates?
- Types of Escape-Proof Heavy-Duty Dog Crates
- Tips for Using Heavy Duty & Inescapable Dog Crates
- Things You Can Do to Make Your Crate Escape Proof
- How Dogs Escape the Conventional Dog Crate?
- Pro Tips to Train Your Dog for an Escape-Proof Dog Crate
- In Conclusion
- FAQs
Why Trust Me?
So, I did my research, found out about the 20 strongest crates, and slimmed down the list to the top 7.
I’m 200% confident that you’ll love what I discovered.
7 Best Heavy-Duty Dog Escape-Proof Dog Crates
1. IMPACT High Anxiety Crate
Impact is a recognized brand for creating resilient dog crates and only crates.
Their high anxiety crate well emphasizes the superiority of that specialization.
Let’s see why it is the best.
For starters, it is very thoughtfully engineered with strong 100% aluminum. It’s not even just regular aluminum; it’s over 62% thicker.
That’s merely the first telltale sign of a resilient crate that can safely contain a strong dog.
With a maximum weight of 79 lbs and dimensions 48.5L x 32.5W x 35.87H in inches for the largest size, this beast of a crate could comfortably hold a massive Tibetan Mastiff and any similar breed.
This strong crate features a zinc steel paddle latch with a robust mechanism. It’s built to hold large dogs with immense strength. This added layer of security can withstand high-stress horizontal forces.
If that’s the additional layer, what is the primary security layer? The butterfly door latches.
This is a completely escape-proof industrial crate designed to contain the escape-determined dog. That’s why there are not one but four butterfly latches.
These safety buckles are NOT seen in the standard crates, which makes it a little lion cage.
The escape-proof value further increases thanks to the placement of these locks. They are the opening side of the door where the maximum force will be experienced.
That’s why Impact’s high anxiety crate is the ultimate heavy-duty escape-proof crate.
What’s the point of a strong door if there’s a weak body?
Lucky for you, Impact’s design team already saw that coming. The crate’s body is thick enough to discourage even the strongest adult dogs from denting it. It’s a virtually indestructible dog crate.
But even with this entire espace-proof design details, the dog gets enough ventilation and light from the ventilation holes.
You’d initially worry if these holes are big enough for nails to go through — you know how that might make the dogs feel as if they could tear through the plate. However, they are just 0.05 inched and perfectly safe.
So far, we have resilient construction and several protection mechanisms that make it impossible for even the strongest dogs to escape Impact’s high-anxiety crate.
Is that all? No.
The entire is not only just welded but ALSO riveted together. The material is strong, and all the edges where it usually tends to be weak are extremely strong in this one.
This construction method ensures that the crate remains intact and stable under tremendous pressure. In other words, heavy-duty and escape-proof.
On top of all these features, the crate comes with military-grade handles. Even if you were strong, transporting this crate is much easier with these handles.
Although you presume a wheeled bottom would be better, it would cause accidental movements when your dog tries to escape.
There’s no chance for even the best escape artists.
As I said, the largest available size’s dimensions are 48.5 “L x 32.5 “W x 35.87 “, and it comes in five sizes. You can buy this escape-proof crate in three colors; I suggest grey or black.
With a lifetime warranty, assembled delivery, and free shipping, this made-in-US escape-proof heavy-duty crate is the BEST in the game, undoubtedly.
We got you covered with our honest impact dog crate review if you want to know more about this dog crate.
Pros
Cons
2. GUNNER G1
If not for Impact’s all-rounder crate, the Gunner G1 would have been the best. So many features make the G1 dependable, and let’s see what they are.
A dog needs a specific sense of discomfort or fear for them to attempt to escape. This can be averted if there’s space with a comfortable shape.
Weighing 72 lbs, the largest size of the four sizes has dimensions 40.25″ (L) x 28″ (W) x 33.25″ (H) / 34.5″ (H) with carry handles.
It’s comfortable and big enough.
The G1 heavy-duty crate’s material is high-quality, double-walled rotomolded plastic. Sure, it’s not as strong as Impact’s premium Alumunium, but it’s impressive. For starters, it offers two times more impact protection and a better guard against outside forces.
The crate is 12% cooler than other leading aluminum, and your dog will spend 20% less energy staying warm inside than other single-rotomolded or aluminum kennels — that’s sheer material quality.
The powerful frame system complements this material quality. The door system of the Gunner G1 is made with an aluminum frame.
According to Gunner, the design’s sole purpose is to contain a dog before, during, and after a wreck. That loosely translates that this is a heavy-duty crate by design.
But how does it become escape-proof?
In addition to the body’s strength and the strong door system, the Gunner G1 crate features top AND bottom locks added for extra backup. Quoting them, “Even Houdini couldn’t escape this crate,” I like that way of guaranteeing.
Even if it’s a great heavy-duty dog crate, the accessibility is easier for dog owners thanks to features such as the reversible door. It’s designed to open from either side. The cherry on top is the paddle latch that includes a key-in-the-hole lock.
So, the Gunner G1 is the stopping point for escape artists.
But more features make it valuable.
One such feature is the element-repelling windows. G1 doesn’t have ventilation holes, but these vents are engineered to limit the penetration of seasonal trouble like rain, snow, and sleet.
That’s more comfortable for your dog.
You’ll also notice how the bottom of the crate has drainage patterns. Cleaning up the Gunner G1 is easier, thanks to the removable drainage plug.
Being a fully American-made product, you get a lifetime warranty too.
With super strong carrying handles, built-in tie-down pins, and a wider base for utmost comfort, there’s no reason for your dog to escape this crate — they’ll love being inside.
Here’s our complete and honest gunner crate review.
Pros
Cons
3. Rock Creek Crates ALUMINUM DOG CRATE
It was nice seeing that I could get 15% off the order as long as I submitted my phone number and email — but before I do that, we need to see if Roch Creek’s aluminum crate is worth it.
This is an aluminum crate, a telltale sign of strength. The cuboidal shape helps, and it also looks a bit similar to Impact’s anxiety crate.
The Rock Creek crate comes in four sizes, whose largest size is 48 inches long, 32.25″ wide, with a height of 35″.
It’s a decently heavy crate with a weight of 79 lbs.
If you’re unsure about the right crate size, there’s a step-by-step size guide by Rock Creek.
The tall and buffy door is the first escape-proof feature I want to highlight. It is divided into two sections horizontally from the middle, so there’s no chance of bending the bars.
The door latch is lockable and very strong. So, your furry friend won’t be able to push it and get out.
There are two more butterfly latches on the opening side of the door to discourage your escape artists further from trying to escape.
The internal welded aluminum frame is a unique feature that makes this crate so valuable. Remember that it is present on top of the overall aluminum build. That’s why the company openly positions the product as escape-proof and indestructible.
On top of that, Rock Creek’s crate is the only dog crate with an internal welded frame.
What more can you ask for?
On top of all these heavy-duty escape-proof features, the upper half of the crate’s body has hexagonal ventilation holes. In addition to the ventilation, they provide extra light inside too.
You get ten years of warranty for this Rock Creek crate, and it comes fully assembled. But that makes you question if the assembling price is added to the final price.
Rock Creek crate is another excellent alternative to Impact’s crate, with recessed and easy-to-carry handles, stackable corner guards, and threaded inserts (compatible with seven new accessories).
You can buy this in six colors such as grey, blue, green, pink, yellow, and white.a
It’s an impressive set of features that makes your life and your dog’s lives easier.
Pros
Cons
4. ProSelect Empire Crate
If all hope is gone, and you can’t find an Impact crate or any, the best alternative is the ProSelect Empire dog cage.
Let’s see what makes it heavy-duty and escape-proof.
This is a 20-gauge steel cage made using thick steel tubing, paired door latches, and heavy-duty welds.
It comes in two sizes, medium and large, and I believe heavy-duty crates should be able to hold large dogs.
It shouldn’t be that hard with dimensions 41.25″ H x 42.25″ W x 30.75″ L.
Despite the high strength factor, it has two conventional yet strong locks. It’s their placement that makes these locks so unique. These locks are perfectly equidistant from the middle horizontal line, and that’s why they can absorb so much pressure.
In other words, your dog can’t escape this metal cage.
Usually, metal cages like these come with a bottom made of widely spaced bars, which is uncomfortable. After all, discomfort is a significant reason why your dog would want to try and escape the cage.
ProSelect Empire dog cage has a floor gratewith closely spaced bars and a removable tray underneath. This makes it super easy to clean.
But remember to be extra careful with the removable tray because you do not want to break it.
With the casters, anyone can effortlessly move the cage around. Although these wheels don’t have locks, you can remove these casters for added stability.
I know there aren’t many special features like the first few crates we discussed. Nonetheless, you can rely on this crate to keep your dog safe.
Pros
Cons
5. Lucky Dog® Dwell™ Series Crate
Next up is Lucky Dog’s Dwell series crate – bronze finish. I’ll call it the Dwell crate to make it easier for both of us. So, what makes the dwell crate so unique?
At first glance, this is a very spacious wire dog crate that comes in four sizes. Out of them, the biggest size has dimensions 48 “x30″ x33”, weighing 39.7 pounds.
I liked the balance between weight and dimensions, as it’s crucial.
But unlike the Impact’s crate, this is not a fully covered crate as it’s a cage. So, if your dog has separation anxiety, you might need to train them to be inside the cage better.
This wire crate has well-spaced wires, but it’s always better to double-check if your dog is attempting to bend the wires.
Nonetheless, there’s a dependable, secure door with latches that provide peace of mind. The most special design detail must be the door’s sliding nature. It’s so quiet and easy that it’s comfortable for you and your dog.
The rail system makes things easier, and there’s an extra easy-access front door for optimized space. That’s not all; this crate folds down flat, and transporting it is much easier. The only problem is the lack of handles.
You’ll love the patented, easy-snap corner stabilizers that strengthen and prevent collapsing of this durable frame. Why is it durable? It’s rust-resistant by design.
Although you must get bedding, at least Lucky Dog’s Dwell Seriest crate – the bronze finish is another good alternative. However, Ideally, this cage is not for heavy and stronger dogs.
The company lets you buy it in either a stylish brass finish or bronze finish, bringing more personalization to the product.
Pros
Cons
6. Confote Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Dog Crate
A resilient metal cage — that’s the best way to introduce Confote’s escape-proof heavy-duty dog crates.
But what makes it escape-proof and heavy-duty?
The starting factor is the material; it’s fully stainless steel and, thus, incredibly resilient and robust.
Similar to the last one, this has a grated floor, and you need bedding to provide better comfort.
But there’s a plus point; this is the biggest dog case to use encrypted thick steel pope(0.5mm) at the bottom.
These aren’t circular, so standing on their paws is more comfortable.
And there’s no way your dog can dig through that.
Just as strong as the bottom, the bars surrounding it are also equally strong. With ideal distance, and that’s why they can’t bend or squeeze through.
You’ll also love the double-door design. The Confote’s cage features a front door for your pet to go in and out. But the door on the top is most suitable for interacting with the dog ensuring one factor: not letting them escape the cage.
Confote has 360-degree rotatable and lockable casters too.
This cage has a tray bottom which makes it extra easy to clean food and excrement. As always, take great care of this tray, as it contains a lot of value and can’t be easily replaced.
Assembling this crate is claimed to be easy as it only takes 3-5 minutes. Don’t worry, all the locks are pre-assembled, and the Confote team is ready to assist you just in case.
In conclusion, the Confote stainless steel metal cage is another reliable alternative.
Pros
Cons
7. SMONTER Heavy Duty Dog Crate
I love how Smonter’s marketing strategy clearly indicates their priorities: “Don’t let pets become troubled.”
Essentially, that’s exactly what every dog parent looking for an escape-proof crate wants.
There are some advantages to Smonter pinpoints on why it should be chosen.
It’s not on the Impact-crate-supremacy level, but it’s good enough.
For starters, the crate is made out of a well-welded steel bar. The product features a sturdy metal frame that contains even the most aggressive canines from escaping by damaging the bars.
The cherry on top is the non-toxic surface finish. Your furry friends will chew on the bars; there’s no long-term risk. That’s how it should be.
Or, no chewing at all, like the Impact or Gunner G1.
Smonter ensures an escape-proof design with the special y-pattern at the top. This pattern is specifically chosen to prevent the dog’s mouth from sticking out, which might encourage them to misbehave. Additionally, it’s bite-proof as well.
Regardless of the resilient design, this is still a cage. If your dog has separation anxiety, it might trigger dogs and force them to try and escape.
This cage also features a strong lock with a single-door design. Its mid-placement ensures the pressure is ideally mitigated. But it would have been better to have a couple of more locks.
Even with a grate–bottom, you still get a tray, so it’s easier to clean.
Did I mention the casters? Smonter’s heavy-duty escape-proof cage also has 360 degrees rotatable wheels/casters. Since these can be locked, you don’t have to worry about accidental movement.
It’s a good alternative and can be the best last resort for a reliable escape-proof heavy-duty dog crate.
Pros
Cons
Now that we’re done with the heavy-duty dog crate list, let me brief the buying guide for escape-proof & heavy-duty dog crates.
Buying Guide: Escape Proof & Heavy Duty Dog Crate
There are several factors and tips to consider, but the following points cover all of them.
- Avoid getting standard & conventional crates
- Prioritize the walled crates for further discouraged escape attempts
- Get a crate with many locks with ideal placements
- It’s best to have a built-in cleaning convenience
- Avoid getting a too-big or (obviously) too-small size of a crate
- Do not buy any poorly ventilated crates
- The high brand value matters in terms of higher quality
- The holes/spacing of metal bars should not be dangerous to your dog
- Standard wire crates should NOT be used for heavy-duty needs
- Condition-specific crates for a dog suffers from separation anxiety are great
- Prioritize crates with single doors
- Welded is better than bolted, and both together are so much better
- Carrying handles must be there
- Pay attention to the overall interior shape
With that covered, let’s look at the list.
Why Invest in an Escape-Proof, Heavy Duty Dog Crate?
When pet parents are looking for an escape-proof dog crate, it doesn’t mean they want to imprison their dogs.
Although you’ll have your own reasons, here are ten solid reasons to invest in escape-proof heavy-duty dog crates.
- Provides a secure and safe living space for your dog
- Prevents your dog from injuring themselves or destroying your home while you’re away
- Helps with potty training and managing behavior
- Increases to tame aggressive dogs faster
- Gives you peace of mind when you’re away from home
- Easier to tame the more robust dogs with training
- Can be used for travel or outdoor activities
- Can help reduce anxiety and stress in your dog
- A tough crate lasts longer compared to any typical dog’s crate
- Helps prevent bad habits from developing, such as chewing or excessive barking
- Safeguard your dog from external factors such as snow, rain, temperature, etc
How to Measure Your Dog for Escape-Proof Heavy-Duty Dog Crates?
It is essential to measure your dog accurately to ensure that they have enough space.
To measure your dog, follow these simple steps:
- Step 1: measure the length of your dog from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail
- Step 2: measure the height of your dog from the floor to the top of its head or ears, depending on which is the highest
- Step 3: measure the width of your dog from shoulder to shoulder
- Step 4: add a few inches to each measurement to ensure your dog has enough space to move around comfortably.
You should note that this is a very generalized approach. Some crate companies have their own measurement methods, which are easily accessible via hyperlinks on product pages.
Types of Escape-Proof Heavy-Duty Dog Crates
Although there can be several deviations, below are some of the most common escape proof & heavy-duty crates in the market.
- The Metal heavy-duty dog crates: made of heavy-duty steel, these crates are durable and can withstand even the most persistent chewers and escape artists. Any wire crate also belongs in this category.
- The Aluminum heavy-duty crates: lightweight and durable, aluminum dog crates are perfect for travel and outdoor activities. The majority of crates are made from aluminum due to superior durability.
- The Plastic heavy-duty crates: plastic crates are ideal for dogs that suffer from anxiety and need a quieter and enclosed space.
- The Wooden heavy-duty cratess: these crates blend in with your home decor and provide your dog with a comfortable, safe space.
Tips for Using Heavy Duty & Inescapable Dog Crates
Sometimes, all it takes is having that extra wisdom, and that’s why I want to share that with you.
- You can always reinforce weak points by reinforcing the walls with zip ties in the corners or even drilling holes in the crate holes and fixing them.
- Using extra padlocks if needed is never a wrong choice, not when you have heavy and strong dogs.
- Remember that placement of the crate plays a big role, too; choose an area safe and comfortable for your dog.
- Double-check the locks before you walk away since you don’t want to make that mistake with escape-proof and heavy-duty dog crates.
- It’s always mindful of using comfy bedding and blankets long-term, lowering the dog’s need to damage the crate.
- Cleaning the crate on time is imperative.
- Removing your dog’s collar and harness before they get inside the crate is important as that’ll prevent when from getting caught on the crate bars.
- Remember never to hard-fix your crate anywhere, as almost all of these crates are travel friendly.
Although there are many more tips, I’m sure this gives you a clear idea.
Things You Can Do to Make Your Crate Escape Proof
Maybe you might like to convert your existing crate escape-proof even if you’re buying a brand new one. Whatever the reason it was, here are three sure-shot things to do.
- Use a padlock or carabiner to secure the crate door
- Cover the crate with a blanket or sheet to prevent your dog from seeing outside
- Use a bungee cord to secure the crate to a stationary object
I could tell you more, but I can’t guarantee how long it’ll last.
How Dogs Escape the Conventional Dog Crate?
It could be because you’re tired of seeing your dog always escape your crate that you want an escape-proof crate. But how do dogs usually escape typical dog crates?
Allow me to answer that.
They can always chew or bend the crate bars. This usually happens when the bar spacing is considerably high.
But it can be as simple as pushing the door open with enough force.
The reason for that could be that one lock is not enough; that’s why the best heavy-duty & inescapable crates have multiple secondary locks.
You’d be surprised to hear that some dogs could dig under the crate or even squeeze through the gaps.
If your dog escapes the crate by forcing apart the crate seams, it’s better to use metal carabiners to reinforce these places.
None of these risks would occur if you chose a dependable, escape-proof, heavy-duty dog crate.
Pro Tips to Train Your Dog for an Escape-Proof Dog Crate
Remember that this is not your average crate. So, training your dog takes effort and more strategic approaches.
Here are 5 of the best tips to do it like a pro.
- You MUST make the crate a positive experience
- Gradually increase the door shut time when they’re inside
- Ignore attention-seeking behavior that’ll get worse if you give them attention
- AVOID punishments at all times
- Observe your dog’s behavior when inside and act accordingly
I’m sure there are more sophisticated tips, but you can definitely work with these.
In Conclusion
If a dog parent requires escape-proof and heavy-duty qualities simultaneously, it’s a serious issue to resolve. On such occasions, you should not compromise the solution’s quality.
But upon evaluation, Impact’s high anxiety crate comes with ZERO quality comprises — it’s the ultimate heavy-duty and escape-proof dog crate. It ticks ALL the boxes and more.
I hope you make that one-time sensible investment and give the best life your best friend deserves.
See you in another review!
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