Jessica
At WeLovePetz, we are dedicated to providing you with the best pet care tips.
Introduction: The Gold Standard or Just Popular?
When you adopt a new puppy, the first piece of advice you usually receive is “get a crate.” And if you walk into any pet store or search online, the MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate is almost certainly the first option you will see. It is the ubiquitous standard for wire crates. But popularity doesn’t always equal performance.
For owners of small breeds or puppies weighing between 12 to 25 pounds, the 24-inch iCrate promises a safe den, easy portability, and secure containment. Recently, MidWest updated this classic model with new security features, specifically the “Paw Block” latch. Is this a meaningful upgrade or just marketing jargon? In this review, we analyze whether the iCrate remains the go-to solution for crate training or if it has been surpassed by modern competitors.
Core Features and Safety Upgrades
The 24-inch iCrate is designed specifically for small dogs. Its dimensions (24L x 18W x 19H inches) create a cozy environment that mimics a natural den. However, the standout features of this generation are centered around safety and adaptability.
The “Paw Block” Security System
One of the historical weaknesses of wire crates is the slide-bolt latch. Clever dogs quickly learn they can nudge the bolt up and slide it open from the inside. MidWest has addressed this with the “Paw Block,” a patented L-shaped locking tip. This forces the user (or the dog) to perform a specific motion to unlock it, making accidental or forced openings significantly harder for a pet to achieve.
Double Door Versatility
This model features two doors: one on the front and one on the side. This might seem like a minor detail, but in a small apartment or a crowded car, it is a lifesaver. It allows you to position the crate lengthwise or widthwise without blocking the entry, giving you far more flexibility in how you arrange your space.
The Divider Panel Advantage
Included in the box is a divider panel, which is essential for puppy owners. A crate that is too large allows a puppy to sleep in one corner and soil the other, defeating the purpose of house training. The divider lets you shrink the living space to match the puppy’s size, moving it back as they grow. This feature essentially gives you two crates for the price of one.
Hands-On Experience: Setup and Daily Use
The “no tools required” claim is accurate. The iCrate arrives folded flat and can be set up in under 60 seconds. You simply unhook the side clips, unfold the front and back panels, and snap the top bracing into place. It feels intuitive, though the metal-on-metal sound during setup can be startling to a timid pet.
Durability and Flooring
The wire gauge is sufficient for small breeds like Terriers, Frenchies, or Pugs. However, it is not “heavy duty.” If you have a dog with severe separation anxiety that bites bars, they could potentially bend this wire. For the average dog, it is perfectly adequate. The crate also includes rubber roller feet on the bottom corners, a thoughtful addition that prevents the metal frame from gouging hardwood or vinyl floors.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Accidents happen. The iCrate uses a leak-proof ABS plastic pan that slides out from the bottom without opening the door. This makes cleanup incredibly easy. The pan is durable, though users should be careful not to drop it on hard concrete in freezing temperatures, as plastic can become brittle.
Pros and Cons Analysis
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Divider Included: Saves money by allowing the crate to grow with your puppy. | Wire Gauge: Not suitable for high-anxiety dogs or aggressive chewers who can bend standard wire. |
| Paw Block Latch: enhanced security prevents smart dogs from jiggling the latch open. | Noise: Metal crates can rattle when the dog moves; requires a blanket to dampen sound. |
| Double Doors: Offers flexible placement options in tight rooms or vehicles. | Aesthetics: It looks like a cage; lacks the style of wooden furniture crates. |
| Easy Cleaning: Slide-out plastic tray makes cleaning accidents hassle-free. | Sharp Edges: While mostly rounded, occasional rough spots on wire ends can occur (inspect before use). |
Market Comparison
The iCrate is the market leader, but how does it stack up against budget knock-offs and premium alternatives?
| Feature | MidWest iCrate 24″ | Amazon Basics Folding Crate | Diggs Revol (Premium) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price Tier | 💰 Affordable | 💰 Budget | 💰💰💰 Luxury |
| Security | 🔒 Paw Block Latch | 🔓 Standard Slide Bolt | 🔒🔒 High-Tech Latch |
| Versatility | 🚪 Double Door + Divider | 🚪 Double Door options | 🚪 Side/Top/Front |
| Portability | 🚗 High (Folds Flat) | 🚗 High (Folds Flat) | 🚗 Medium (Collapsible) |
| Durability | 🛡️ Standard Wire | 🛡️ Standard Wire | 🛡️🛡️ Reinforced Mesh |
Verdict: Still the King of Crates?
The MidWest Homes for Pets 24-Inch iCrate remains the best value-for-money option for most pet owners. It hits the perfect balance between affordability, functionality, and safety.
The inclusion of the divider panel makes it a no-brainer for puppy parents, as it eliminates the need to buy multiple crates as the dog grows. While it isn’t indestructible and won’t hold a 100lb dog with separation anxiety, it is perfectly engineered for its intended purpose: housing small breeds (12-25 lbs) for sleep, travel, and training. The updated “Paw Block” latch adds a necessary layer of security that elevates it above generic competitors. For 90% of dog owners, this is the only crate you will ever need.
