Release the Hound Smart Dog Crate Opener is the top pick for most buyers and the best automatic dog crate option when the main need is hands-free door release. This device focuses on one practical job: opening a compatible crate door without reaching inside or handling the latch each time. That focused design may suit owners who want scheduled access or easier daily routines without replacing an entire crate.
This guide is for dog owners comparing automated crate accessories and complete powered enclosures. The key factors are crate size, door compatibility, power source, battery life, setup, and the dog’s weight and behavior. A reliable opener also needs a secure mounting point and controls that are easy to understand. The five picks below are ranked with clear reasons, along with honest drawbacks for each, so you can match the right option to your dog, crate, and routine.
Quick Comparison
| # | Product | Best For | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Release the Hound Smart Dog Crate Opener | Remote crate access for busy owners | ~$130 | View → |
| 2 | Release the Hound! Smart Dog Crate Opener | App-controlled openings for multi-dog homes | ~$120 | View → |
| 3 | Amazon Basics Portable Metal Wire Dog Crate | Travel-friendly crate shoppers | ~$83 | View → |
| 4 | Asee'm 48-Inch Dog Crate | Large-breed indoor crate buyers | ~$150 | View → |
| 5 | Easy Out EOD1 Automated Pet Crate Opener | Hands-free crate release seekers | ~$130 | View → |
5 Top Automatic Dog Crates
This ranked list counts down from the fifth option to our top pick, with key features and limitations noted for each crate.
5. Easy Out EOD1 Automated Pet Crate Opener
Best for: Remote crate access during busy days
The Easy Out EOD1 is an automated opener for single-latch pet crates. It releases the door with the included remote control, so owners can decide when a pet exits instead of relying on a collar chip. The opener can also fit some gates, carriers, kennels, and other doors. Mounting is designed for common crate setups, but exact fit depends on the latch and door design.
The EOD1 costs around $130, though prices change. It includes remote control access but not Wi-Fi. That distinction matters. Smartphone control and scheduled releases require the PLUS version with a Wi-Fi smart plug, such as the EODP1. EOD2 and EODP2 models handle double-latch crates. Owners can set release times or open the crate remotely from work, provided the setup has Wi-Fi. The company says it has supported pet owners for over 20 years.
Pros
- Opens a single-latch crate without requiring the owner to reach the door.
- Included remote control works without buying a separate accessory.
- PLUS models can support phone access and scheduled daily releases through Wi-Fi.
Cons
- The EOD1 does not include the Wi-Fi smart plug, so phone control and schedules require a different model.
- Compatibility is not universal, especially for unusual crate latches, gates, or carrier doors.
4. Asee’m 48-Inch Dog Crate
Best for: Large dogs needing secure indoor housing
The Asee’m 48-inch heavy-duty crate is a large steel kennel for medium and large dogs. Its outside measures 47.2 by 28 by 31 inches, including the wheels. The usable interior measures 46 by 27 by 25 inches, giving a dog room to turn and lie down. Thick square steel tubing forms the frame, while six extra tubes reinforce the base. Welded joints add strength against pushing and chewing.
This kennel has a low front entry and two stainless steel locks. The design should make feeding and interaction easier while limiting door access. Four 360-degree swivel casters allow the crate to move around the home, and wheel locks help keep it in place. Most parts arrive assembled, so setup mainly involves tightening the remaining sections. Two pull-out trays sit beneath the grate and catch loose dirt or spills. At around $150, it costs more than basic wire crates, but offers a sturdier structure and better mobility.
Pros
- Reinforced steel frame and six base tubes provide stronger support than standard wire crates.
- Two stainless steel door locks add a useful barrier for dogs that push at doors.
- Locking swivel wheels and removable trays simplify repositioning and cleanup.
Cons
- The 25-inch interior height may feel restrictive for some tall large-breed dogs.
- Its 47-inch length and 28-inch width require substantial floor space, even when moved on casters.
3. Amazon Basics Portable Metal Wire Dog Crate
Best for: Large dogs needing adjustable indoor space
This 42-inch Amazon Basics wire crate is made for dogs measuring under 38 inches long and 26 inches high, including Poodles, Boxers, Huskies, and German Shepherds. Its metal-wire body folds flat for storage or transport, while the top handle makes carrying more practical. Assembly is designed to be quick, without a complicated setup.
Two doors provide front and side access, which helps when positioning the crate in a room or vehicle. A divider panel lets you reduce the usable area as needed, though the full interior may be too large for a young dog at first. The removable plastic tray catches messes and slides out for cleaning. A metal hook at the bottom helps keep the tray from shifting, but it must be locked properly after each installation. Manual door locks provide basic containment, yet they require deliberate closing and checking. At around $83, this crate offers useful flexibility, but buyers should confirm the dog’s measurements and available floor space before ordering.
Pros
- Two doors allow front or side entry, depending on placement.
- The divider adjusts the interior for a growing dog.
- A removable plastic tray simplifies routine cleanup.
Cons
- The 42-inch frame needs substantial floor space and does not become small when folded.
- Manual locks and the tray hook need checking every time, especially with dogs that push or paw at doors.
2. Release the Hound! Smart Dog Crate Opener
Best for: Scheduled crate release at home
Release the Hound! is a remote opener for metal dog crates. It lets you release the door through a phone app or compatible smart-home commands, instead of opening the crate by hand. Custom schedules can also open the door at set times, which may help create a consistent morning routine. The price is around $120, and it changes over time.
Its PETG polymer body offers a lighter alternative to bulky metal hardware, while the simple design should fit into most home spaces without drawing much attention. Compatibility covers most metal crates, but fit still depends on the crate’s door shape and latch placement. Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit support add control options for homes using those platforms. The product is designed and manufactured in North Carolina. Keep in mind that a smart plug is not included, so setup may require an additional purchase depending on your installation.
Pros
- Scheduled opening can create a hands-free release routine.
- App, Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit control offer several ways to operate the door.
- PETG construction and a compact design suit many indoor crate setups.
Cons
- It fits most metal crates, not every crate or door style.
- The smart plug is sold separately, which increases the total setup cost.
1. Release the Hound Smart Dog Crate Opener
Best for: Dog owners needing scheduled crate access
Release the Hound! is a remote opener for many metal dog crates. It lets you release the crate door through a phone app or voice commands, with support for Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit. The package includes a smart plug, so buyers do not need to purchase that part separately. At around $130, it costs more than a basic timer or manual crate latch.
The opener uses PETG polymer, a durable plastic suited to repeated household use. Its compact, minimalist design should draw less attention than bulkier crate accessories. You can set opening times for a daily routine, such as letting your dog out at a chosen morning hour. The product is designed and made in North Carolina, which may appeal to buyers who prefer domestic manufacturing. Compatibility is broad, but the listing only promises fitment for most metal crates, not every model or crate size.
Pros
- Supports Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit, and app control for remote release.
- Includes the smart plug, reducing the number of accessories needed for setup.
- Programmable schedules can automate a consistent morning crate routine.
Cons
- It is designed for most metal crates, so buyers should confirm the opener will fit their specific door and frame.
- Around $130, it is a costly upgrade compared with a standard crate latch or timer.
Buying Guide
The moving-door safety system matters most when choosing an automated kennel. Sensors, slow closing, and a manual release can prevent pinched paws, trapped collars, and panic during a power failure.
- Door safety: Choose a model with obstruction detection, a manual override, and a door that pauses when resistance appears. Avoid units that close without a visible safety release.
- Interior size: Measure your dog from nose to tail, then add 3–6 inches for length. Add 3–6 inches above the head when standing. Your dog should turn around without scraping the sides.
- Power backup: Look for battery backup lasting at least 8 hours. A standard wall cord, low-battery alert, and manual operation still matter during outages.
- Noise level: Prefer a motor rated below 50 decibels, especially for nervous dogs or nighttime use. Request a return option if the listing gives no noise information.
- Cleaning and cost: Select a removable tray, washable surfaces, and rust-resistant metal. Budget roughly $150–$500, then check the warranty, replacement parts, and app subscription fees.
If you cannot get everything, prioritize door safety and manual control before smart features, finishes, or app access.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best automatic dog crate for home use?
The best automatic dog crate for home use has a secure door, quiet controls, a manual release, and enough room for your dog to stand, turn, and lie flat. Choose a model using your dog’s adult measurements, not weight alone. A 30-inch crate may suit some medium dogs, but dimensions vary by design.
How do automatic dog crates work?
Automatic dog crates use a motor, timer, sensor, or remote control to open and close the door. Some connect to an app, while others use a keypad or scheduled control panel. Check the closing delay, manual override, and power backup before relying on one for a daily routine.
Can automatic dog crates be used overnight?
Yes, automatic dog crates can be used overnight when your dog is crate-trained, calm, and physically comfortable inside. Test the door during daytime first, and keep the manual release accessible. Puppies may need bathroom breaks every 1 to 3 hours, so an automated door does not replace supervision.
Are automatic dog crates safe for puppies?
Automatic dog crates can be safe for puppies when the door moves slowly, the mechanism stays enclosed, and an adult monitors early use. Select a crate with adjustable space or a divider, then check it before every session. Avoid automatic closure if your puppy chews wires or panics when confined.
Conclusion
Release the Hound Smart Dog Crate Opener is the top recommendation for owners who want scheduled, remote access to a compatible crate door. If your priority is lower cost and simpler setup, choose a manual or timer-based opener instead, since it uses fewer electronic features and may fit more crates. Before buying, double-check your dog’s size, the crate’s opener compatibility, the package quantity, and the current price, since listings and bundles can change. Read the setup instructions before ordering, especially if your crate has a sliding, folding, or unusually heavy door. A smart opener can add convenience, but only when its mechanism matches the crate and your dog’s daily routine.