Overview
The LifeStages is MidWest’s mid-range wire crate, and the 48-inch double-door model (1648DDU) is the size aimed at extra-large breeds. The Amazon listing says it is ideal for dogs of about 90 to 110 lb and names German Shepherds, Collies and Huskies as examples. Dimensions are listed at roughly 48 x 30 x 33 inches, although the same listing also gives 48.5 x 30.25 x 32 inches elsewhere, so allow a little margin.
It uses heavier wire than MidWest’s basic crates, and adds a Paw Block feature at the latches to make it harder for a dog to push a door open. Like most MidWest crates, it folds flat without tools, includes a divider panel and comes with a leak-proof plastic pan.
For an extra-large breed puppy, that divider is the main selling point. You can buy the crate once at adult size and keep the usable space small during house training, then open it up as the dog grows. The two doors, one on the end and one on the long side, also make it easier to fit the crate into a corner or along a wall in a busy room.
Key features
- Two doors with slide-bolt latches and Paw Block
- Heavier-gauge wire than MidWest’s standard crates
- Divider panel included
- Removable leak-proof pan
- Rubber feet and a carry handle
- Folds flat; tool-free setup
- Listing states a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty
Who it suits (and who should skip it)
This crate suits owners of big dogs who want a roomy, familiar wire crate without paying for a premium heavy-duty model. The divider makes it workable for an extra-large breed puppy, and two doors give you flexibility in where it sits.
If your dog is close to 110 lb or very tall, the listing itself suggests stepping up to MidWest’s 54-inch model. If your dog is strong and pushes hard at doors, the heavier MidWest Ultima Pro is the sturdier option. A few Chewy reviewers report rust on new crates and parts tangled in the box, and the crate is heavy at this size, so open and check it soon after delivery.
How it compares
The LifeStages is roomier than the 42-inch Ultima Pro and generally the easier to find in both countries, but its frame is lighter. For travel, it is not a substitute for a plastic kennel like the Petmate Sky Kennel. Pair it with a flat crate pad rather than a thick orthopedic bed, which will rarely fit inside. For accident clean-up while house training, see our guide to removing pet stains naturally.
In practice, most extra-large dogs spend their crate time lying flat and stretched out, so the extra floor length of the 48-inch size matters more than any single feature. Measure your dog before ordering and compare against the listed interior size in your store.
Pros and cons
What we like
- Roomy 48-inch size for extra-large breeds
- Divider, pan and two doors included
- Paw Block latches add a layer of security for doors
- Folds flat without tools
Watch out for
- Lighter frame than heavy-duty crates for strong dogs
- Some reviewers report rust or tangled parts on arrival
Our rating: 4.1/5
| Build quality | 3.8 |
|---|---|
| Ease of use | 4.3 |
| Safety & trust | 3.8 |
| Value | 4.3 |
| US & Canada availability | 4.5 |
Our rating is an editorial score based on the brand's published specs, independent reviews, safety and trust signals, value and availability in the US and Canada. It is not Amazon's customer rating, and brands do not pay for placement.
Frequently asked questions
What size dog fits the LifeStages 48-inch crate?
The listing says it is ideal for dogs around 90 to 110 lb, such as German Shepherds, Collies and Huskies. Measure your dog too: it should stand without ducking and turn around easily. For dogs near the top of that range, MidWest suggests its 54-inch crate.
What is Paw Block on the LifeStages crate?
Paw Block is MidWest's name for a latch design meant to stop a dog from pushing or pawing a door open. It makes the doors harder to work loose, but no wire crate is escape-proof, so check latches regularly and supervise if your dog tests them.
Does the LifeStages crate fold for travel?
Yes. It folds flat without tools and has a carry handle. At 48 inches it is still heavy and bulky, so it is better suited to moving between home and cottage than daily carrying. It is not designed for air travel.
Is there a warranty on the LifeStages crate?
The Amazon listing states a 1-year manufacturer's warranty. We could not find warranty terms on MidWest's own product pages, so keep your order details and the paperwork. Inspect the crate on arrival, since some reviewers report rust or tangled parts in the box.
This page is general information, not veterinary advice. Check with your vet before changing your pet's food or adding a supplement.
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