Ellie-Bo vs MidWest Dog Crates: How to Choose

Why this comparison matters

A crate is more than a confinement tool. It gives your dog a warm, quiet place to rest, away from drafts and off the floor. The ASPCA lists a training crate or dog bed as part of basic housing, with a clean blanket or pillow inside.

When you choose between Ellie-Bo and MidWest, start with the job the crate will do. A travel crate needs to fold and carry well. A home crate needs to fit the room and feel secure. A crate for a puppy needs a divider so it can grow. The brand matters less than the match.

Use the crate size chart as your starting point, then compare the designs of each brand on the features that matter for your routine.

Portability: folding, carrying, and travel

Portability usually comes down to whether a crate folds flat. Folding crates are easier to store, move between rooms, and take on trips. Non-folding crates are sturdier in place but harder to relocate.

Ellie-Bo's crate line is built around folding wire models, so it is a natural fit if you need a crate that can collapse for storage. MidWest also makes folding crates, but the family includes heavier, more rigid styles as well.

Check the folding mechanism, not just the brand name. Latches should stay tight, panels should line up, and the crate should not wobble when assembled. If you plan to carry it often, look at the handle design and overall weight and how the tray locks in.

For frequent trips, a folding crate that fits into the car matters more than a brand label. The crate should also stay stable once set up inside your home or vehicle.

Door access: front, side, and double doors

Door access changes where you can put the crate and how easy it is to get your dog in and out. A front door is standard on almost every crate. A side door gives you another way in, which helps when the crate sits against a wall or in a corner.

Many MidWest models are known for their double-door designs, with a front door and a side door. That can make cleanup and loading easier. Ellie-Bo concentrates on front-door designs in most of its lineup, with fewer side-opening options. Compare the door styles in the single vs double door guide before you settle on a model.

Think about your room. A crate with a side door can open into the room rather than into a wall. A front-door-only crate needs enough space in front for the door to swing fully. If you plan to use the crate as furniture, the door style matters even more.

Durability: frame, wire, and latches

Durability determines how long the crate lasts and how safe it is for an active dog. Look at the wire thickness, the coating on the metal, and the latch quality. A thin wire with a weak latch will not hold up to a strong chewer.

The ASPCA notes that dogs with separation anxiety may chew, dig, or attempt to escape from confinement. If your dog has any of those behaviors, choose a crate with a sturdy frame and a door latch that your dog cannot work loose. The heavy-duty crate guide is a good place to start.

Powder-coated wire is common on both Ellie-Bo and MidWest crates. The coating protects the metal and is easier to keep clean. Galvanized wire is another option, especially for outdoor use or humid climates.

Bar spacing also matters. A puppy can squeeze through spacing that is too wide, while a large dog can get its head stuck if the spacing is too narrow. Check the bar spacing and compare it to your dog's size.

Ellie-Bo and MidWest at a glance

The table below summarizes the design focus of each family. Individual models can vary, so use it as a starting point, not a substitute for reading the specs.

Safety, cleaning, and supervision

A crate is only as good as the habits around it. The CDC recommends supervising young children around dogs, even trusted family pets, and teaching children how to interact with animals safely.

Keep the crate clean and wash bedding often. The ASPCA advises washing dog bedding frequently and providing clean, fresh water. Remove waste from the yard promptly, and clean the tray when needed. Read through the dog crate safety checklist to catch small issues before they become bigger ones.

A well-matched crate will help your dog feel secure. A too-small crate is uncomfortable; a too-large crate can encourage soiling for a puppy. Check the size guidance before you buy.

How to decide

Choose Ellie-Bo if your priority is a portable, fold-flat crate for travel or occasional use. Its lineup emphasizes lightweight wire crates that are easy to collapse and move.

Choose MidWest if you want a proven, widely available crate with more door options. The double-door style gives you flexibility for room layout, and the brand has a long track record.

For a dog that chews or tries to escape, do not pick by brand alone. Focus on heavy-duty construction, secure latches, and the right size. No crate replaces supervision and training.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Which is better for travel, Ellie-Bo or MidWest?

Ellie-Bo specializes in folding wire crates, which makes it a strong choice for car trips and storage. MidWest also offers folding models, so compare the folded size and handle design if travel is your main use.

Do MidWest dog crates have two doors?

Many MidWest models include a front door and a side door. The side door gives you more placement options in a room. Check the specific model's door layout before ordering.

Are Ellie-Bo crates sturdy enough for chewers?

Chew resistance depends on wire thickness, coating, and latch strength, not the brand alone. If your dog is a determined chewer, look at heavy-duty models and secure latching systems from either family.

What size should I choose from either brand?

Measure your dog from nose to tail and while standing. The crate should let the dog stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Use the size chart and compare the listed dimensions for each brand.