MidWest iCrate 24-Inch Blue Small Dog Crate Starter Kit Review

MidWest iCrate 24-Inch Blue Starter Kit

MidWest iCrate 24-Inch Blue Starter Kit
Complete Kit for Small Dogs
This single-door blue wire crate kit includes a bed, cover, and bowls for training small breeds. Perfect for new puppy owners.
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Why Pet Owners Love It

Here’s why the MidWest iCrate 24-Inch Blue Starter Kit is a hit with small dog owners:

• All-in-One Solution: Includes crate, bed, cover, and bowls in one box. A user said, “Everything a new pup needs.”
• Quick Assembly: Sets up in seconds without tools. A reviewer noted, “Ready in 15 seconds.”
• Calming Cover: Blue polyester cover creates a den-like space. A Shih Tzu owner said their pup “settled quickly.”
• Secure Bowls: Stainless steel bowls snap onto bars, preventing spills. A Jack Russell owner praised their “sturdy fit.”
• Adjustable Divider: Grows with puppies. A user loved it for “potty training success.”
• Portable Design: Folds flat with a handle. A user called it “great for travel.”

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Where It Falls Short

The MidWest iCrate 24-Inch Blue Starter Kit has limitations:

• Not Chew-Proof: Wire crate is vulnerable to chewers. A user reported their puppy “bent bars during teething.”
• Thin Bed Material: Fleece bed may stain or tear. A reviewer noted, “Not ideal for accidents.”
• Sharp Edges: Some wires have rough ends. A user advised checking to avoid scratches.
• Flimsy Cover: Polyester cover may wear out. A user said it “feels thin after washing.”
• Not Airline-Approved for Cargo: Lacks IATA compliance for cargo hold travel.
• Single Door: Less flexible than double-door models for tight spaces.

Pros & Cons

What Are Others Saying?

Customer Feedback

Positive Reviews: Users praise its convenience and design. A Shih Tzu owner called it “perfect for training,” noting the cover’s calming effect. A Jack Russell owner loved the secure bowls, saying they “don’t tip over.” The easy setup and divider are also popular, with one user saying, “Ideal for my growing pup.”

Critiques: Some report durability issues. A user with a teething puppy noted bent wires, unsuitable for chewers. Others mentioned the bed staining during accidents and sharp edges needing filing.

Expert Insights

• The Spruce Pets: Names the MidWest iCrate the best overall for puppies, praising its easy assembly and divider, key features of the starter kit for training small dogs.
• Wirecutter: Recommends the MidWest iCrate for its sturdy, simple setup and durable wire frame, core components of this kit, ideal for home use.

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MidWest iCrate 24-Inch Blue Starter Kit

MidWest iCrate 24-Inch Blue Starter Kit
Complete Kit for Small Dogs
This single-door blue wire crate kit includes a bed, cover, and bowls for training small breeds. Perfect for new puppy owners.
Check Price on Amazon

How It Compares

We’ve compared the MidWest iCrate 24-Inch Blue Starter Kit to similar products:

• Amazon Basics Foldable Crate: More affordable but lacks the bed, cover, and bowls included in MidWest’s kit.
• BOWHAUS 30-Inch Crate Kit: Similar bundle but single-door and larger, less suited for small spaces.
• MidWest New World Crate Kit: Comparable accessories but fewer color options and less robust latches, per user feedback.
• FLARUZIY 24-Inch Crate: Double-door crate but no extras, less comprehensive than MidWest’s kit.

Who Is It For?

• Small Dog Owners: Ideal for Shih Tzus, Jack Russell Terriers, or breeds 13–25 pounds.
• New Puppy Owners: Perfect for first-time owners needing a complete training setup.
• Indoor Users: Suits home crate training with its calming cover.
• Budget-Conscious Buyers: Appeals to those wanting a value-packed kit.
• Not for Chewers: Unsuitable for aggressive dogs who bend wires.
• Not for Cargo Travel: Not IATA-compliant for airline cargo holds.

Tips for Using the MidWest iCrate 24-Inch Blue Starter Kit

• Assembly: Unfold the crate and secure the latch, attaching bowls with wing nuts for stability.
• Training: Introduce with treats and a command like “Crate.” Use the divider to limit space for potty training.
• Comfort: Secure the blue fleece bed with its elastic straps. Add a waterproof pad (e.g., INVENHO Washable Pee Pad) for accidents.
• Privacy: Use the blue cover on three sides for a den-like feel, adjusting flaps for ventilation.
• Maintenance: Wash the bed and cover monthly; clean the tray and bowls weekly with mild soap.
• Safety: File down sharp wires with a metal file to avoid scratches, per user advice.

The Bottom Line

The MidWest iCrate 24-Inch Blue Dog Crate Starter Kit is a convenient, value-packed solution for small dog owners and new puppy parents. Its single-door crate, blue fleece bed, privacy cover, and secure bowls make it ideal for training Shih Tzus or Jack Russell Terriers, earning expert praise for ease and durability. While not suited for chewers or airline cargo, it’s perfect for indoor use. Need a complete crate kit for your small pup?

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Explore More

Need a cleanup solution after crate training? Check out our Pogi’s Grooming Wipes Review for gentle, effective wipes to keep your pup fresh.