A new wire crate runs $60 to $200 at Canadian pet stores, and most dogs outgrow or graduate out of theirs within a couple of years. That leaves a lot of barely-used crates sitting in garages, which is good news if you need one. Second hand dog crates, cages, and kennels routinely sell for a third of retail, and because they are bulky and awkward to ship, buying locally is the only approach that makes sense.
Every listing below comes from a local owner. There are no fees and no shipping: you message the seller through the site, agree on a price, and pick the crate up in your city. If nothing is listed near you right now, check the buying guide below, grab a new-crate alternative, or check back soon. Listings move quickly.
Nothing listed right now
Local inventory moves fast and new items are listed every week. Check the new-item picks below, or be the first to list in your city.
Have one collecting dust?
List it here free. No fees, no commission — buyers in your city message you through the site and pick up locally. Listings take about two minutes.
Prefer new? Our recommended picks
Vetted picks if nothing used fits — links go to Amazon.ca.
What to check before buying a used crate
Look at the door latches first: they take the most abuse and a latch that does not seat firmly is how dogs escape. Check the tray slides in and out without cracks, that no wires are bent inward (chew damage leaves sharp ends), and that the fold mechanism locks solid on collapsible crates. For plastic travel kennels, confirm the bolts are all present and the shell has no stress cracks. Surface rust wipes off; deep rust that flakes means pass.
Disinfect it properly before your dog goes in
This is the step people skip, and it matters. Canine parvovirus can survive on surfaces for months and standard household cleaners do not kill it. Wash the crate with soap and water first, then soak all surfaces with a 1:30 bleach solution (about half a cup of bleach in 7.5 litres of water), leave it wet for ten minutes, rinse thoroughly, and dry in the sun. If the previous dog was ever sick with parvo, do not buy the crate at all. Puppies who have not finished their vaccine series are the highest-risk group, so be extra careful buying used gear for a new puppy.
Getting the size right
Your dog should be able to stand up without crouching, turn around, and lie flat. Measure nose to tail base and add 5 to 10 cm for length. As a rough Canadian sizing guide: 24 inch for small breeds under 25 lbs, 30 to 36 inch for the 25 to 70 lb range, and 42 to 48 inch for large breeds. Buying for a puppy? Get the adult size with a divider panel instead of two crates.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I buy a second hand dog crate near me?+
Right here. LocalPetFinder’s marketplace lists used dog crates, cages, and kennels from owners in your city. Listings are local-pickup only, there are no fees, and you message the seller through the site. Inventory changes constantly as dogs get adopted and rehomed, so check back if your size is not listed today.
Are used dog cages safe?+
Yes, if you check two things. Mechanically: latches that seat firmly, no inward-bent or chewed wires, an intact tray, and a fold mechanism that locks. Hygienically: wash with soap and water, then disinfect with a 1:30 bleach solution and let it sit ten minutes before rinsing. Household sprays do not kill parvovirus; bleach does.
How much should a 2nd hand dog crate cost?+
Expect a third to half of retail. A 42 inch wire crate that sells new for $120 typically goes for $30 to $60 used. Plastic airline kennels hold value better because people need them last-minute for travel. Anything priced above 60% of new should come with a reason, like an included bed or a premium brand.
What is the difference between a crate, a cage, and a kennel?+
Mostly regional wording for the same thing. In Canada, "crate" usually means the folding wire box used indoors, "cage" is the same object, and "kennel" can mean either the plastic travel carrier or a large outdoor run. Sellers use all three words, so we group them together here.
Can I sell my old dog crate here?+
Yes, and it is free. Create a listing with one photo, set your price (or list it free), and buyers in your city message you through the site. No commission, no fees. Crates are one of the fastest-selling used pet items because everyone needs one and nobody wants to pay retail twice.