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10 Best Travel Crates for Dogs in 2022

Last updated July 5, 2022 | Follow us on Facebook Here

Packing up the car and taking a road trip with your best (dog) friend can seem like a great idea. But there are a lot of places dogs aren’t allowed, and that’s where a travel crate can come into play, especially if you’re staying in hotels.

I personally have taken 5-6 trips across the United States with two dogs. We’ve used multiple types of crates, starting with the traditional house crate (hard wired metal) and finally settling on a foldable soft crate.

Noz2Noz Soft-Krater Indoor and Outdoor Crate

With a great ease of use and ability to be easily cleaned, this water resistant crate is a perfect option. It offers a variety of sizes and is very easy to assemble and use.

2Pet Foldable Dog Crate

This crate features a waterproof base and a portion of the proceeds go to a great animal cause. A washable fleece pad is the icing on the cake with this one.

Soft Crate vs. Hard Crate

You could not pay me to take a road trip with a metal crate, with one exception: I was driving a truck and the dog was comfortable or preferred the bed of the truck as opposed to the inside floor. Other than that I’m taking a soft crate every single time.

The primary reason is weight. Lugging in 1, 2, 3 or more hard crates into a hotel room is pure torture, especially if you have large dogs, which means large crates.

It’s true that hard crates are easier to clean up, so if you have an older dog or a younger dog prone to accidents then a hard crate may be worth it, but even then it’s a close call.

Travel Crate

While cars are made for human safety, they are not always the safest for pups, especially because they cannot wear a traditional seat-belt ( although there are dog specific seat-belts and harnesses ) as we can. Some (not all) travel crates make sure that your dog is secure and in the event of a crash, they stay inside the vehicle instead of being ejected.

However, most travel crates are simply meant for hotels or overnight stays where you can’t leave the dog in the room to roam about. We almost never use crates inside cars (occasionally in a truck bed). Instead we’ll set up our soft crates in the hotel room so we can visit a local museum, restaurant, or another attraction where dogs aren’t allowed.

10 Best Travel Crates for Dogs

1. noz2noz soft-krater indoor and outdoor crate.

This model also comes in 5 different sizes for dogs weighing up to 70 pounds. The crate is made of a tight-weave mesh fabric that is heavy-duty for pet wear and tear durability. The soft crate is ideal for long trips as it is well ventilated and it sets up in a very short amount of time.

The Noz2Noz model has a water resistant base for accidents and easy cleaning and the entire cover surrounding the steel frame is washable in your washing machine.

Pros: Comes in a variety of sizes, washable, water resistant

Cons: More expensive than other brands

2. 2Pet Foldable Dog Crate

This crate features a steel frame design covered with a water resistant nylon variant over. It has mesh panel windows and a waterproof mat for the flooring of the crate. It also comes with a washable fleece cushion pad.

A portion of the sales also goes to pet shelters and charities, which is a great perk! The crate also comes with a 1 year warranty.

The crate has installed carrying handles and is foldable and lightweight.

Pros: A portion of the proceeds goes to charity, waterproof, and lightweight

3. AmazonBasics Portable Folding Travel Kennel

amazon-basics-portable-folding-soft-dog-travel-crate

A soft crate, this product comes in five different sizes to accommodate many different sizes of dogs, weighing up to 70 pounds. Featuring two doors on the front and the top, this crate makes for easy access and entry and has ventilation for your pooch on all four sides of the kennel.

With zippers to close the doors and straps to help to fasten unzipped doors, the mechanism is easy to use and provides for ultimate assurance that your dog is fastened in.

The kennel folds up flat for storage and transport and sets up quickly without any tools. The rounded corners of this kennel make sure not to damage the interior of your vehicle during travel.

Pros: Easy set up, folds up, zipper closures

Cons: No carry handles

4. Diggs Revol Small Dog Crate

This particular crate is made of high-grade aluminum, steel mesh wire, and reinforced plastic, all of which are non-toxic and safe for your dog. The crate is collapsible, easy to transport and has three carrying handles. This crate comes with wheels and a large garage-style door.

This crate fits any breed up to 30 pounds and has a puppy divider, a removable tray and a ceiling hatch. The dimensions of this kennel are 25x17x19.

Pros: Easy to clean, collapsible, non-toxic

Cons: comes in one size

5. Aspen Pet Porter Heavy-Duty Pet Porter

With eight size choices, this model dog crate packs a punch! One perk about this kennel is that with an easy-open latch, you can open the crate with one hand. This specific crate meets most airline cargo specifications and regulations.

It is made up of a heavy-duty plastic shell and metal screws and features a lightweight design.

Pros: Airline cargo certified, 8 size choices

Cons: Does not fold down

6. AmazonBasics Two-Door Top-Load Kennel

You have two size options with this particular crate. It is a hard-shell, two-door top-load model. The top door is able to open up to the left or the right. While the exterior is made of plastic, the front door is comprised of a steel wire to safely secure your pup.

The price point is very reasonable and is easy to clean. If simplicity is your goal, this is a great option.

Pros: Simplicity and price

7. EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate

The EliteField model comes in 5 size options to accommodate your dog and over 10 color options! Although this is a soft crate, the frame is a strong steel tube and the crate cover is made out of a durable fabric.

This kennel has a total of three doors: one on the top, one on the front and one on the side. It comes with a carrying bag and fleece bed for free! Also, it should be noted that a 2 year warranty comes along with this product.

Pros: 2 year warranty, free carrying bag and fleece bed, many color choices

Cons: Higher price point

8. Guardian Gear Collapsible Dog Crate

This crate features 4 different sizes and is able to accompany large dogs such as Great Danes, Great Pyrenees, Greyhounds, and St. Bernards. It is quick and simple to assemble and to take apart and has mesh windows on all four sides for ventilation and visibility.

This model has a machine-washable sheepskin mat, along with a carrying handle.

Pros: Has a very large size option, Quick Assembly

9. New World Folding Metal Dog Crate

This brand offers options! You can choose from 5 different sizes and a single or double door. It is a folding metal crate with two heavy duty slide-bolt latches. The New World crate has a leak-proof plastic pan for accidents. No tools are needed to assemble this kennel and it fits easily in the back of a vehicle.

Although it does not come with any soft bedding, your dog’s bed can be added for extra comfort.

Pros: A great price point, many customizable options

Cons: No soft bedding included

10. LUCKUP Heavy Duty Dog Crate

The Luckup crate is very heavy-duty and the frame is made of steel for durability. The finish on it is nontoxic for your pup’s safety. It has a double door and a locking caster. The bottom of the crate is made to easily be able to slide out for cleaning. You can choose from 3 different size options for this crate.

Unique to others, the bars are much thicker and appear to be more sturdy. It can fit in the back of a vehicle for easy transport.

Pros: Durability, Non-toxic

Cons: No carrying handles

My detailed travel crate setup

For the past several years we’ve used the same two Noz2Noz Soft-Krater without a single issue.

Unfortunately we didn’t start out using soft crates. We started with the traditional metal crates (that way a ton!).

Our first road trip was about 3 weeks across the U.S. and I will never, ever, ever again use metal crates. Holy cow was that a pain.

Our car is packed exactly the same, except we now use soft crates, which pack down even smaller than the picture below. Once we reach the hotel, if we need to leave the dogs for an excursion or something, we’ll unpack the crates and set them up like below.

You can see the 2 soft crates setup in the hotel room, and I also left the laptop in the picture because we use a program called iCam that streams the laptop camera to our phone. That way we can check on the dogs while we’re out.

The crates break down super quick, and we pack up the following day (or whenever we’re done at that hotel).

We don’t even own the metal crates anymore. We used to keep them around in case we needed to crate them in the house, but now we just use the soft crates for that as well.

Let me know in the comments which option you end up going with!

August 14, 2022 at 7:29 pm

Nice info … however, never leave your dog unattended in a hotel room. In fact, in most places it’s a policy and in some municipalities, it’s against the law.

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The 10 Best Dog Crates & Carriers For Car Travel: Keeping Spot Safe!

Dog Crates & Carriers

WRITTEN BY:

April 23, 2024

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K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. Here’s how it works .

Dogs love the open road as much as we do!

But while most humans remember to buckle up before leaving the driveway, your fur baby doesn’t really have a say in the matter.

Many owners let their dog roam free in the car, which can be a deadly mistake.

Even owners who opt for using a dog carrier or crate designed for car travel will likely be shocked to discover that the vast majority of mainstream car carriers aren’t designed to keep your pooch safe in the event of an accident .

But don’t worry — we’re here to help!

Below, we’ll explain everything you need to know about dog carriers and car travel . We’ll outline the reasons why securing your dog is important, and share some of the best crates and carriers that are made from durable materials and designed to keep your pooch safe and secure in the car.

In some cases, harnesses can be the better option for car-riding canines. We break down some of the situations in which this is the case and list some of our favorites in our guide to crash-tested dog car harnesses.

Safest Dog Crates & Carriers for the Car

Below, we’ll share some of the crates and carriers that passed the CPS 2015 Crates and Carrier Crash Worthiness Study , complimented with additional CPS tests performed in 2016. We’ll be continuing to update this article each year when new crash test reports are released.

We’ve updated our recommendations below to include new products to the market and reflect new tests conducted by CPS.

Unfortunately, CPS hasn’t yet published an overview of their recent testing (which is understandable — they are a non-profit organization), but we’ve linked to the individual product test results and videos when available.

Also, we’ve included a few products below that have passed the safety testing conducted by other organizations, such as the Technical Research Institute of Sweden .

1. Diggs Passenger Carrier

A high-quality, tote-style carrier with a 5-star safety rating and an innovative canine-hygiene setup.

About : The Diggs Passenger Carrier is a must-have for travelers with small canines thanks to its cushy interior pad, three accessory pockets, and top-notch safety marks. Also featuring a detachable crossbody strap, sturdy base, custom seat belt clips, and a buckle strap, it helps you safely (and comfortably) tote your pooch from point A to B in cars, planes, and more.

Fabric crate made from fuss-free durable nylon and mesh air vents
Smart setup for easy pee pad changing
Available in Charcoal, Grey, Blush, and Navy color options
Meets most airlines’ specifications for cabin travel

Size & Dimensions :

Available in one size for dogs up to 18 pounds
Measures 20” x 10.8” x 11.5”
5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for pets up to 18 pounds
High safety rating from the Center for Pet Safety
Innovative pee pad setup makes traveling with accident-prone pups a breeze
Chic styling that’s eons beyond most canine carriers
More size options would be ideal
Accessory pockets mean there’s little extra space inside

2. Gunner G1

A tough-as-nails carrier featuring multiple locks, a stainless steel door, and dual-wall construction for impact protection.

About : The American-made Gunner G1 takes safety and quality seriously with its aluminum-framed lockable door (featuring multiple latches), durable plastic shell, and stainless steel hardware. Built-in tiedown pins allow for a snug fit in the car, while a recessed bottom with a drainage system ensures easy cleaning.

Double-wall construction provides maximum impact protection
Non-slip rubberized base prevents dangerous sliding
Water-repelling windows allow air circulation while keeping rain out
Available in 3 colors: Tan, Gunmetal, and Mossy Oak Greenleaf

Size & Dimensions : The G1 comes in four sizes, and the manufacturer recommends using their Kennel Fit Finder on their product page to determine the best one for your pooch.

Small (Measures 24.5” x 18.6” x 20.5”)
Medium (Measures 29.5” x 20.5” x 25”)
Intermediate (Measures 34” x 23” x 30”)
Large (Measures 40.25” x 28” x 34.5”)

Safety:

Gunner Kennel G1 Small : 5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 30 pounds when used with G1 tiedown straps
Gunner Kennel G1 Medium : 5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 45 pounds when used with G1 tiedown straps
Gunner Kennel G1 Intermediate : 5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 75 pounds when used with G1 tiedown straps
Gunner Kennel G1 Large : Currently unrated
Quality and durable plastic construction earned high marks from pet parents
Comes with an impressive lifetime manufacturer’s warranty
Excellent choice for traveling with a Houndini escape artist
Not as portable as other options (it’s quite heavy)
Quality comes at a cost, and these crates are expensive

3. Sleepypod Atom

A wallet-friendly bag that transforms from a crash-rated canine car seat to a stylish messenger tote with ease.

About : The Sleepypod Atom safely cradles your small dog for travel, whether you’re riding in the car, flying high, or buzzing through the subway on official pupper business. Built-in seatbelt straps hold your canine snug in her seat, while the sturdy base and plush interior keeps her cozy (you can even remove it for easy cleanup).

A well-built fabric crate with luggage-grade nylon exterior
3 mesh panels provide excellent ventilation
Padded shoulder strap and 3 pockets for toting your pup and her accessories comfortably
Available in 9 colors, including Robin Egg Blue, Jet Black, and Olive
Single size option measures 10.5” x 8.5” x 17”
Suits dogs up to 12 pounds
5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 12 pounds
Quality and lightweight design earn high marks from owners
Dual zipper entries allow for top or side access
Removable privacy panel can help reduce travel anxieties
Lack of size options is a bummer
Only suitable for tiny toy breeds

4. Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed

A canine carrier that mimics your four-footer’s bed with its soft, fuzzy interior and rounded shape.

About : The Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed doesn’t sacrifice your pet’s comfort in the name of portability, allowing for less stressful travel in its bed-like, lightweight design. Best suited for dogs who sleep in a curled-up position , the round carrier features shearling bedding that can be removed for washing as needed.

Luggage-grade durable nylon shell stands up to the rigors of travel
Removable dome-style mesh topper contains pets while allowing airflow
Adjustable, padded shoulder strap for your comfort
Available in 5 colors: Arctic White, Dark Chocolate, Olive Green, Robin Egg Blue, and Strawberry Red
Single size option measures 17” x 17” x 6.5”
Recommended for pets under 15 pounds
5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 15 pounds
Comfort gets a paw’s up from most doggy travelers
Pet parents loved the carrier’s quality
Bed-like design can ease travel anxiety
Pricey compared to other carriers
A tad bulky to carry

5. Sleepypod Air

A favorite for woofs with wanderlust featuring a 4-star crash rating and an airline-friendly shape.

About : The Sleepypod Air is a fabric crate that’s made for safe, comfortable canine travel with two zippered entries, a sturdy base, and a low-profile design. The soft, machine-washable bedding inside keeps your canine cozy, while the breathable mesh dome and durable nylon shell exterior protect her from harm.

Luggage-grade super-durable nylon outer shell
Removable padded strap and dual storage pockets
Water-repelling interior liner
Offered in 8 eye-pleasing colors, including Orange Dream, Charcoal, and Glacier Silver
Single size option suitable for pets up to 18 pounds
Measures 17” x 17” x 13”
4-Star Rating by the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 18 pounds
Works great for traveling in cars and planes
Pet parents raved about the quality
Owners report doggos love this carrier and even sleep in it at home
Storage pockets can bulge into canine space
Not as fashion-forward as other carriers

6. Sleepypod Mini

A luggage-grade, dome-style travel crate that earned a 5-star crash rating for dogs under 7 pounds.

About : The Sleepypod Mini protects your most petite precious cargo from harm, securing to your car’s seat belt with the PPRS Handilock. Made to mimic your best buddy’s bed, this fabric crate features a rounded shape and a removable plush interior for cozier travel and a water-resistant foam liner in case of accidents.

Made with a supremely durable nylon shell with mesh windows for ventilation
Built-in safety tether prevents bolting when opening
Available in 8 colors, including Blossom Pink, Dark Chocolate, and Jet Black
Two zippered entries for versatile use
Single size option best for dogs 7 pounds and under
Measures 13” x 13” x 5”
5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 7 pounds
It earned top-notch safety accolades for toy breed dogs
Rounded design mimics your pup’s bed
It’s quite durable despite featuring a lightweight design
Only fits the tiniest of dogs (it’s not even ideal for leggier toy breeds)
Can feel a bit clunky to carry

7. Away Pet Carrier

Forget the frump with this fashionable nylon bag featuring slip pockets and dual tote-style handles.

About : Away’s Pet Carrier doesn’t look like your run-of-the-mill dog bag with its tailored design. It performs as great as it looks, boasting a 5-star crash rating and a collar clip for added safety.

Constructed of nylon with a water-resistant liner
Interior sherpa bedding is removable and washable
Custom embroidery option for an additional fee
Available in 2 colors: Black and Coast (a medium blue hue)
Single size option measures 18.7”x 10.8” x 10.7”
Suitable for dogs up to 18 pounds
5-star Rating for dogs up to 18 pounds by the Center for Pet Safety
Design gets a thumb’s up from fashionista fur parents
Sturdy construction holds its shape
Comes with a 100-day satisfaction guarantee
One of the pricier carriers available
Only available in one size

8. Lucky Duck Kennel

A locking, hard-sided crate that’s earned a 5-star rating and is available in sizes suitable for dogs up to 110 pounds.

About : The Lucky Duck Kennel allows for safe car travels with big dogs as it is one of the few large-breed carriers crash-rated by the Center for Pet Safety. The rubberized bottom prevents slippage, as do the built-in tiedown points, which are designed for use with Lucky’s ratchet strap kit for maximum protection.

One-piece rotomolded durable plastic shell design in Gunmetal (Gray)
Ventilation slots for airflow
Pitched floor features a recessed channel to capture liquids away from canines and drain holes for easy cleanup
Reversible door with locking pins for added security
Lucky Duck Kennel Intermediate (Measures 32.5” x 22.5” x 24.5”)
Lucky Duck Kennel Large (Measures 38” x 24” x 29”)
Lucky Duck Kennel Intermediate : 5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 75 pounds when used with Lucky strength-rated anchor straps
Lucky Duck Kennel Large : 5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 110 pounds when used with Lucky strength-rated anchor straps
Largest travel kennel that’s earned 5 stars from the Center for Pet Safety
Secure enough to handle anxious travelers and escape artists
Comes with a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty against defects
Height can be an issue for taller canines
On the pricier side

9. MIM Variocage Single

A stainless steel kennel crash-rated for various accident scenarios, including front, rear, and rollover collisions.

About : The MIM Variocage Single offers supreme safety, as it’s manufactured by a company specializing in automotive safety products. Featuring a built-in crumple zone for shock absorption and a rear emergency escape hatch, this super durable option is made to protect your pooch in multiple situations.

Made with a powder-coated steel frame in a charcoal finish
Locking door with key for additional security
Barred design allows for maximum airflow and visibility
Mounting tabs for tiedown straps

Size & Dimensions : The manufacturer strongly advises consulting their measuring guide and speaking with customer support to ensure a proper fit. Each kennel size features an adjustable length for a customized fit for your dog and vehicle.

Extra Small (Measures 28.7” to 38.9” x 21.8” x 23.2”)
Large (Measures 29.9” to 40.5” x 21.8” x 25.5”)
Large + (Measures 31.8” to 40.5” x 27.5” x 27.1”)
Extra Large (Measures 31.8” to 40.5” x 27.5” x 28.1”)
XXL+ (Measures 32.2” to 41.7” x 27.5” x 30.7”)
Max (Measures 36.2” to 45.6” x 27.5” x 33.2”)

Safety Reports:

All models pass Sweden’s Safe Pet Crate Test that covers front, rear, and rollover accidents
While the crate meets Sweden’s standards, the cargo connection points failed a 2015 Center for Pet Safety’s test in the U.S.
Crash-certified for multiple accident scenarios
MIM offers a free kennel replacement in the event of an accident
Adjustable length is highly convenient
The rear escape hatch is an uncommon feature
Design allows curious paws (and possibly teeth) to slip out during travel
No U.S. crash certifications
One of the priciest canine carriers

10. Ruff Land Kennel

A rugged canine carrier whose angled back was designed with SUV and crossover cargo areas in mind.

About : The Ruff Land Kennel allows for a snug vehicle fit with its special line of SUV-friendly designs featuring an angled back to accommodate your vehicle’s cargo area. Its rust-proof composite door opens both ways, while built-in handles make for easy hauling.

A durable option made from rotomolded polyethylene plastic
Lightweight, stackable design allows for versatile use beyond the car
Includes top and bottom ventilation holes
Available in 3 colors: Whitestone, Rockstone, and Millstone

Size & Dimensions : Consult the manufacturer’s sizing guide to select the best fit for your dog.

Intermediate SUV (Measures 20″ x 31″ x 23″)
Large SUV ( Measures 21″ x 33.5″ x 27″)
Previously tested under the Ruff Tuff brand label with the Center for Pet Safety
First test using a 75-pound dummy failed due to tie-down bracket failures
Second test using a 75-pound dummy with new tiedown straps yielded no such failure, though the test dummy did impact the door
Made specifically with SUVs in mind, ensuring a good fit
More affordable than most large-breed travel crates
Comes with a 1-year comprehensive warranty
No current test star ratings
Ventilation holes are on the smaller side

Why Dogs Need to Be Secured in the Car

Whether you opt to use a dog car crate, or some other kind of canine car restraint, your dog needs to be secure while you’re driving.

Many owners opt to let their dog have free reign in the car, but this can be very dangerous for both owners and pets. For one, in the event of an accident, your dog will become an instant projectile, flying through the windshield and injuring you, other passengers, and himself.

Unrestrained dogs are also a common cause of distracted driving. Author Stephen King famously got into a horrific, nearly-fatal car accident when the other driver took his eyes off the road to correct his misbehaving dog.

Having an unrestrained dog in your car often results in distracted driving — using a restraint will keep both you and your dog safer.

This infographic from CarRentals.com shows how dogs often cause distracted driving!

Even though it’s fun to have your pup by your side as a copilot, the distraction of your dog can be deadly for you both. It’s just not worth the risk!

The Search For A Safe Dog Car Crate

There are a number of things you’ll want to look for (as well as things you’ll want to avoid) when picking a safe dog car crate.

Starting with the things you DO want in a car crate, be sure to look for a crate that is:

Of Sufficient and Suitable Size. Pay attention to the size of your dog, compared to the size of the crate or carrier. A dog car crate should never be 6 inches longer than your dog. This is because the snugness is actually part of what is keeping your dog safe — providing too much excess space means increased momentum and force on impact, resulting in a more dangerous crash for your dog.

Built with High-Quality Connection Points. If your crate’s connectors aren’t strong and up to snuff, the crate will go flying in an accident. And that kind of defeats the whole points of having a sturdy dog car crate! In many dog crash tests, connector safety straps were a key point of failure.

On the flip side, you’ll want to avoid car carriers and crates featuring the following characteristics:

Wire Construction. Wire dog crates can be quite useful in many scenarios, but the car is not one of them. Wire crates just won’t do a ton to protect your fur baby in a car accident. While they are suitable for stopping your dog from distracting you while driving, a wire crate may collapse upon impact.

Soft-Sided Crates. Soft-sided carriers and soft crates are fine enclosures for general use (especially if they’re made from something like durable nylon), and they work great as airline approved in-cabin carriers . However, a fabric crate will do little-to-nothing when it comes to protecting your pooch in a car accident. Since the carriers are soft, most will immediately collapse on impact.

Plastic. The majority of plastic crates have been reported to fracture and break upon impact, leaving your dog unsecure. Most traditional plastic crates simply aren’t sturdy enough to be crash-proof. Nevertheless, a few crash-tested crates are made from very durable plastic, so just be sure to dig in and do your homework before making a choice.

So what does that leave? Well…not much. The dog crates and carriers that have been deemed crash safe are few and far between. However, there are a few that are will work, and we’ll share them below.

The terms “dog crate” and “dog carrier” are often used interchangeably. In fact, we do so all the time.

However, some manufacturers and safety organizations — including the Center for Pet Safety (CPS) — make a pretty clear distinction between the two.

In these cases, the term “crates” is reserved for relatively large containment devices, which are typically meant to be placed in the cargo area of a truck, van, or SUV. By contrast, “carriers” are usually for smaller pets, and they’re designed to ride in the back seat.

CPS Study Reveals That the Majority of Dog Crates Aren’t Safe

The CPS (Center for Pet Safety) is a non-profit research and advocacy organization that conducts crash tests for various dog safety products. The organization was established in 2011 after realizing the disturbing fact that there are no performance standards or test protocols for testing pet safety devices.

Key Lesson: Don’t Believe The Marketing

The truth is that manufacturers of canine car crates and carriers aren’t even required to test their products . Many crates and carriers that market themselves as “crash tested” and safe fail to provide substantial protection in the event of an accident.

Most crates or harnesses that claim to be “crash tested” were only evaluated, at the manufacturer’s discretion, for one size . This means that a crate might pass for a very small dog, but lacks the stability and security for a medium or large sized dog.

It is quite shocking that dog car crates and carriers aren’t held to the same rigorous government safety standards that child car seats and other vehicle safety devices are — especially considering that a compromised crate can injure both pets and humans. Car crates with connector safety straps that fail under stress means that your dog crate could go flying, hurting any passengers in the way (as well as your canine).

CPS Crash Worthiness Study & Testing Plan

After realizing the horrifying gaps in dog car crate and carrier testing, the CPS organization began conducting rigorous testing through the use of specially designed fake crash test dogs.

The CPS teamed up with Subaru to do an objective study in an independent, third-party testing facility in Virginia . A startling number of car crates and dog car carriers failed, but thankfully, a few performed well and are now being recognized as the life-saving devices that they are!

This video explains a bit about the testing and highlights the three winners. We go into more detail about the winning crates below, but this video offers a nice quick overview:

How The CPS Testing Works

In the CPS (Center for Pet Safety) Crash Worthiness Study , two tests were performed.

One was completed with a crate placed in the back cargo area of a vehicle, with the back seats folded downwards , and the crate being secured through connector straps. The vast majority of crates failed in this scenario.

In the second test, dog car crates were again placed in the cargo area, this time with one side of the crate resting against the back side section of the back seats (which were kept in the upright position, rather than folded down flat). This allowed the crates to have additional support through the seatback, and many more crates were able to pass this test.

However, the problem is that if the crate relies on the car’s seatback for support, there is an increased risk of a seatback failure in the event of a front impact if the dog and crate have a combined weight that exceeds 40 pounds.

This wouldn’t just put your dog at risk, but your passengers too . So, in many cases, using the seatback support for your dog’s crate is not safe or recommended.

Let’s take a look at the top winners for the most secure and safe dog car carriers and crates!

Give Careful Consideration to Where the Crate Goes

Many owners place their dog’s car crate or pet kennel in the back of the car — the traditional cargo area. But unfortunately, this isn’t always a safe area for your pooch to be .

In many cars, the front and back sections are designed to be “crumple zones” when involved in accidents. The idea is that, by allowing certain sections of the car to crumple on impact, passengers in the interior of the car may remain safe.

This can be life-saving technology — so long as your loved ones aren’t stuck in one of those crumple zones.

Crumple zones can vary, especially when it comes to larger cars and SUVs that use more of the back car space for seating (making those areas unsafe to be designed as crumple zones, therefore making them safe areas to keep your dog).

Back crumple zones may not be a threat with all cars, but we recommend consulting with your car dealership to determine what the crumple zones of your car are . And then, make sure to place your dog’s pet kennel away from that dangerous crumple zone.

Placing your dog in the front seat isn’t a viable option either, as that exposes your dog to front passenger airbags, which are designed to save a human’s life — not your dog’s. Similar to how you shouldn’t place a child in the passenger seat, due to their size in relation to the airbag trajectory, dogs also can’t safely be placed in the passenger seat.

Usually, the back seat is the best place to install your dog’s car travel crate.

This is also the position where your dog will likely be the most comfortable. One study revealed that dogs exhibit less stress in the car when they are positioned closer to their humans, and can visually see them from where they are positioned. This can be key in helping reduce a dog’s anxiety in the car .

For Larger Dogs, Security Is Even More Important

While dog car safety is important for all canines, special care needs to be given to big dogs. Simply put, big dogs need a super durable crate.

Large dogs are even more of a dangerous projectile than small dogs, as a 70-pound canine body hurtling through your car at 70 miles per hour is going to be a whole lot more dangerous than a 10-pound dog .

However, even a small dog can exert a tremendous amount of force at high speeds.

On top of that, larger dogs will experience more force on impact. Unfortunately, this collision force is so strong that very few dog crates can hold up — the list of car-safe dog crates for big dogs is a very short one.

Additional Things to Seek in a Car Carrier for Dogs

Aside from the characteristics we’ve already discussed, you should also look for a few other things in any car carrier — whether it is crash-tested car crate or not.

Soft material on the inside : In addition to keeping your fur baby safe, you’ll want to look for a carrier that’s also comfy!
Keep the crate’s weight in mind : Generally speaking, you’ll want to look for the lightest crate you can find that still provides the safety and security your doggo deserves.
A water-resistant base : Even the best-trained pooches can have the occasional accident, so always try to stick to carriers with a water-resistant base.
Portability : Because of the very nature of car crates, you’ll want to ensure you select one that is as easy as possible to move around. That doesn’t necessarily mean you need to pick a collapsible dog crate, but it should be one you can move around easily.

How Do I Measure My Dog For a Car Carrier?

Whether you use a soft- or hard-sided crate, you must keep your canine’s comfort in mind and make sure your fur baby gets the right size crate. Essentially, this means that you need a car carrier that is large enough that your doggo can stand up in it and lie down comfortably.

Measure from your dog’s neck (aka where the collar sits) to the base of the tail. Then, add a few inches. That’s the length you want to shoot for.

For height, measure from the top of your dog’s shoulders to the ground. If you’re buying a soft-sided crate or soft-sided carrier (or any kind of soft crate in general), you should add 2 to 3 inches to the height measurement. For hard carriers, add 3 to 5 inches.

Also, make sure to keep weight recommendations in mind when trying to pick the perfect size crate for your fur baby — pet owners with dogs falling between two sizes should probably opt for the larger size!

Distraction Prevention Vs Crash-Proof Power

It’s worth noting that while the majority of budget-friendly and popular consumer crates and carriers failed the safety test, most of these failed crash products do help substantially at least when it comes to distraction prevention.

Having your dog secured in the back seat, away from the driver, means a safer driving experience and, as a result, puts the entire car at lower risk for an accident.

So while the vast majority of crates will not protect your dog in an accident, even a poorly cash-tested device will likely be better than none at all. This holds true for many dog booster car seats and dog seat belts as well — most provide virtually no protection in an accident, but they will keep your pup from pestering you while you drive.

Still, we want to prevent distractions and keep our dogs safe, so we’d certainly suggest opting for a dog car crate or carrier that is capable of doing both!

What to Do If You and Your Dog Are in a Car Accident

Unfortunately, no matter how safe we try to be, accidents happen.

If you and your pup are in a car accident, your utmost priority is safety, so now more than ever, keep a level head and assess the situation.

Follow basic safety steps to ensure you and your four-footer’s well-being:

Pull into a safe area, if you can. If you’re involved in a minor fender-bender on a busy roadway, it’s best for all parties to move to the shoulder, if possible, to avoid another collision (some states even have “If you can steer it; clear it” laws in place). It’s all too common for a two-vehicle crash to worsen.
Assess the vehicle’s safety. Are there any fluids or smoke being released into or out of the vehicle? Can you smell gas or chemicals? Are there downed live wires outside? The answers to these questions greatly affect your next actions. Downed wires outside of the car mean staying inside, while smoke, gas, or chemical leaks require you to grab your pooch and get out of the car pronto .
Check yourself. Glance over yourself for signs of injury. We know your first instinct is to check on your pooch, but if you hurt yourself further, you won’t be able to help your fur baby. Adrenaline can make it hard to pinpoint any pain, but a quick once-over can usually spot any bleeding or serious injury that you need to address.
Check your pet. In most cases, pet carriers protect your dog from serious harm but you’ll still need to check her for injuries when it’s safe to do so. Keep the car door closed behind you if possible, as a frightened pup is prone to bolting after an accident. Look for signs of obvious pain like a stiff posture, whimpering, or limping. You also want to check for blood or a misaligned limb. Dogs who aren’t properly secured in a carrier or with a harness are more susceptible to severe injury.
Use caution. A dog in pain may act aggressively, so don’t feel offended if your best friend is snappy or fearful of you. Your feelings need to take a backseat, but your safety shouldn’t so use caution when handling an injured dog.
Render emergency aid . If your dog is bleeding, apply pressure with a clean towel or clothing item. If she isn’t responsive and appears not to be breathing, proceed with dog CPR .
Secure your pet. Make sure your dog is properly leashed before exiting the vehicle. This is critical, as even dogs with the best recall may run away after an accident.
Call the police. Report the accident to proper authorities as soon as you’re sure you and your dog are OK and secured. If you or your dog are injured, relay this information as well. This ensures the proper help arrives informed of the situation.
Seek veterinary care. Bleeding, fractures, or signs of pain require emergency treatment by a vet. If you need care and can’t go with your dog, emergency professionals will likely be able to transport your canine to receive treatment. We’d also recommend getting your doggy copilot checked over by your vet from head to tail even after a minor accident.
Contact your insurance company. Pet injuries suffered during a car accident are covered by some insurance companies. It’s worth giving your insurer a call to check on your status. This is a good feature for all pet owners to look for while insurance shopping.

Automobile accidents are traumatic for both humans and dogs. What once was a safe space suddenly isn’t, so you both may have residual anxieties about riding in the car. A good way to overcome this is by having driveway hangouts, where you reintroduce sitting in the car in a fun, stress-free way. Bring treats and offer praise as you relax in the backseat. Over time, you can work up to turning on the car and driving around the block, making the car fun again.

If you haven’t already, it’s also a good time to introduce a travel dog crate to ensure your pupper’s safety for future car adventures.

Do you use a crate or carrier in the car with your fur baby? Are you surprised to hear about the CPS’s study and the lackluster safety of most car crates? Have you found a supremely durable option with a sturdy base that’s made from high-quality materials yet not listed above? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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The 10 Best Dog Crates of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

In This Article

Our Top Picks
How We Tested
What to Look For

Standout Features

Why Trust The Spruce Pets

The Spruce / Tamara Staples

The right dog crate offers a comfortable den-like space where a dog can go to feel safe. It should also be easy for you to clean and make it easy for you to access your dog. If you have a puppy, a crate is a valuable tool for potty training because dogs instinctually do not want to soil their home.

We conducted hands-on testing of 20 dog crates in our New York lab to find the best options, evaluating different styles of crates, including traditional wireframes, foldable soft-sided models, and hybrid crates that serve as functional side tables.

Our overall favorite is the MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Single Door and Double Door Dog Crate , which is large enough to support a growing puppy and includes a crate cover, dog bed, and two detachable food bowls.

Best Overall

Midwest homes for pets icrate single door & double door dog crates.

Ease of Setup 5 /5
Ease of Use 5 /5
Durability 4 /5
Ease of Cleaning 5 /5

Thoughtful, simple design

Easy to clean

Useful double doors

Door bent under pressure

Our best overall pick is the MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Single Door and Double Door Dog Crate because of its easy assembly, thorough features, and easy-to-clean tray. While many of the other crates that we tested also scored well for their easy-to-clean surfaces, the additional divider in this crate kit set it apart from the rest. Plus, this crate’s plastic tray slides out easily, making it simple to clean if any major accidents happen. We also love that this crate has rubberized rolling buffers to protect hardwood, vinyl, or tile flooring.

This crate from MidWest Homes for Pets passed our lab tests with perfect scores in ease of setup, use, and cleaning. Its basic aesthetic may not win any beauty contests, but it's certainly functional. We especially love the double door model, which makes it a cinch to access the crate from the front or side, adding significantly to the iCrate's flexibility.

The practicality of this crate coupled with its easy-to-collapse and easy-to-clean design can't be beat. The setup is as simple as pulling the top of the crate up and snapping the hooks into place. Removing the plastic tray is also easy, as there is a slot for it to slide out from the bottom of the crate. A security hook also ensures that the tray stays in its place when your pup is on top of it.

The only downside we found is the door does bend slightly when it’s pulled on, not significant enough for a dog to bust through the door, but it’s still a worthy concern for any owners with especially excitable or high-strung pooches . Despite this one design concern, we’d still recommend this crate as a reliable and basic option that’s sure to last you multiple years and withstand pet wear and tear over time.

Dimensions: 22 x 13 x 16 inches (extra-small), 24 x 18 x 19 inches (small), 30 x 19 x 21 inches (medium), 36 x 23 x 25 inches (medium/large), 42 x 28 x 31 inches (large), 48 x 30 x 33 inches (extra-large) | Material: Metal, plastic | Attributes: Collapsible, divider included, double door, removable pan, carry handle, water-resistant

The Spruce Pets / Tamara Staples

The Spruce Pets / Jessica Juliao

Best Budget

Amazon basics soft dog travel crate.

Durability 5 /5
Ease of Cleaning 4.8 /5

Durable construction

Foldable, streamlined design

Mesh windows

Some nooks and crannies might be difficult to clean

Finding a dog crate that doesn’t break the bank but still does its job well can be challenging, but we were very impressed with this crate from Amazon Basics, which has a PVC frame with polyester and mesh fabric cover, all for a very affordable price.

This crate has three openings (one at either end of the crate and one on the top) that are secured by zippers. They can also be rolled up and fastened to the top of the crate. This crate is super lightweight, making it a great option for travel, but it doesn’t have a carrying handle.

Overall the crate is very durable and designed to endure—it didn’t budge or break when a sandbag was thrown on top of it and at the front of it. Long term maintenance and cleaning will likely require the use of a handheld vacuum to target the smaller nooks and crannies within the crate’s frame.

Dimensions: 25.98 x 18.11 x 18.11 inches (small), 21.3 x 29.9 x 21.3 (medium), 36 x 24 x 24 (large), 42 x 31 x 31 inches (extra-large) | Material: PVC frame, polyester, mesh | Attributes: Folds flat, mesh windows, zippered entry

The Spruce / Jessica Juliao

What Our Testers Say

"We threw a sandbag at the front of it and on the top, and it was totally fine! Nothing broke or scratched."— Maria Bouselli, product tester

Best Splurge

Diggs revol dog crate.

Ease of Use 4.8 /5
Value 4.5 /5

User-friendly design and durable construction

Removable tray included

Easy to clean and set up

Not very compact when collapsed

If you’re looking for a luxurious and incredibly durable dog crate, we recommend the Diggs Revol Collapsible Dog Crate. This crate collapses when you twist the top handle, and the sides lift up, offering multiple access points for your pet.

We like the intuitive design and the heavy-duty crate is hard to budge once in place, even with 45 pounds of force directed at the door in our lab testing environment. Throwing multiple sandbags at the crate also did not impact its structure or appearance.

This crate’s tray is removable so that you can easily clean it, and it has a raised edge to prevent any leakage if accidents do happen while your pet is inside the crate. The crate’s door is secured by a latch that's released by pressing a button, so it’s much more secure than other crates that only have a sliding bolt. But the crate is not very compact , even when it’s collapsed, so it may not be easily stored under certain pieces of furniture or in small closets. While the price point on this crate is certainly a splurge in anyone’s budget, we do believe the price fairly reflects this crate’s high quality and unique design.

Dimensions: 25 x 17 x 19 (small), 32 x 20 x 22 inches (medium), 39 x 25 x 28 (intermediate), 44 x 28 x 30 (large) | Material: High grade aluminum, steel mesh wire, reinforced plastic | Attributes: Collapsible, removable tray

Best for Small Dogs

Fable pets crate.

Ease of Setup 4 /5
Ease of Use 4 /5
Durability 4.5 /5
Ease of Cleaning 4 /5

Doubles as side table

Metal or acrylic door option

Two wood finishes to choose from

No removable tray

Door jiggles when closed

The overall design of the Fable Pets Crate easily double as a bedside table or end table in a family room. The dual function crate is relatively easy to put together out of the box, similar to the labor intensity of Ikea furniture.

The crate is made out of bentwood and comes in two wood finishes, signature (lighter) or walnut (darker), with the choice of a clear acrylic door or white metal door. Both door options have square-shaped cut-outs for visibility and airflow. If your dog tends to paw at the door of their crate, you might find the metal door option to be more durable.

This crate has rubber pads that prevent it from scratching hardwood and vinyl floors , but there is no carrying handle, which could make it difficult to move from room to room. That said, we recommend finding a designated spot and sticking with it to make it feel more den-like for your dog. This crate also does not have a removable tray, so you must crouch down to reach inside for any cleaning needs.

Overall, this crate is a great option for anyone looking for lockable crate blends into decor while still being very functional.

Dimensions: 26 x 20 x 23 inches (extra-small/small), 34 x 24 x 25 inches (medium), 42 x 29.5 x 34.4 inches (large) | Material: Bent wood, metal or acrylic door | Attributes: Windows, side table

Best for Travel

Petmate pet kennel.

Performance 4.5 /5
Portability 5 /5
Quality 4.5 /5

Lightweight

Secure latch

Easy to assemble and use

Does not support dogs over 15 pounds

If you like to take your dog on road trips , you should check out the Petmate Two Door Pet Kennel. It’s easy to attach the top and bottom pieces together, and the door is incredibly secure. Plus, the front and top openings allow for easy cleaning and access to your pet. In our lab testing, this crate’s door did not budge when pulled with 33 pounds of force and was not affected by the impact of a sandbag.

The top carrying handle also makes this crate a great option for city dwellers who commute to their vet's office or groomers. While we love how convenient this crate would be for extra-small to small dog breeds, we wish it was just slightly bigger to accommodate dogs within the 20-pound range. Nonetheless, this crate is a great, lightweight option for any travel situation for owners of small dogs.

Dimensions: 24.05 x 16.8 x 14.5 inches | Material: Recycled plastic | Attributes: Top handle, two doors with secure latches

"The crate is super simple to use! The door opens easily, and it even has a top part that comes off as well to check in on your dog. The latches definitely lock in but open easily by squeezing. And it's very easy to pick up and carry! I think a 15-pound dog would be very happy in this crate!"— Maria Bouselli, product tester

Best for Flights

Petmate aspen pet porter dog kennel.

ID tags and detachable bowls included

Secure door latch

Meets most airline standards

Not portable with large dogs

If your dog is a frequent flier with you, then you’ll want a crate with a reliable closure and durable frame. The Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier offers crate sizes for all dogs up to 120 pounds, and it comes with two “live animal stickers,” ID tags, and detachable food bowls.

The intuitively designed crate has a secure latch that's virtually impossible for a dog to open, even if you have a Houdini-like pup in your home. This kennel also meets most airlines’ standards for pet carriers, but be sure to consult with your preferred airline before making any flight plans with your pup.

If you have an especially reactive pup , keep in mind that the door to this crate may bend slightly with excessive force. While testing with roughly 68 pounds of force pulled against it, the door showed a slight bend, but overall we were impressed by the door’s durability and latch strength. This crate does not have a removable tray, but its plastic interior still make it relatively easy to clean, except for a few tight corners.

While Petmate does offer carriers with handles for their two smallest sizes (21-inch and 28-inch crates), the larger kennels may be more difficult to carry and maneuver through an airport, especially with a larger dog inside.

Dimensions: 24.5 x 18.25 x 19.5 inches; 32 x 22.5 x 24 inches; 36 x 25 x 27 inches; 40 x 27 x 30 inches | Material: Plastic, steel wire | Attributes: Side vents, wire door with latch, top handle (small sizes only)

Note About Airline Travel

If your dog is too large to fly in-cabin, you will need a crate that meets your airline's requirements. In general, the crate should be lockable from the outside (escape-proof), structured, ventilated, and sized appropriately for your dog.

Best Soft Crate

Elitefield soft folding dog crate.

Dual zipper flaps on sides and top

Removable, machine washable bed included

Easy to carry with side pockets for storage of small accessories

Fabric is not chew proof

For overnight stays outside of your home, the EliteField Soft Folding Dog Crate is lightweight and easy to fold.

The alloy steel frame is covered in breathable nylon that is available in various colors. Three dual zipper flaps, one on top and two on each side, enable flexibility and convenience for checking on your dog and getting them safely inside. There are also two storage pockets on the exterior for small accessories, like a leash and a collapsible bowl. Inside you'll find a removable, machine-washable bed. The crate is durable, but not chew-proof so we do not recommend it for a teething puppy. Spills and accidents can be spot cleaned as needed.

Dimensions: 20 x 14 x 14 inches (extra-small), 24 x 18 x 21 inches (small), 30 x 21 x 24 inches (medium), 36 x 24 x 28 inches (medium/large), 42 x 28 x 32 inches (large) | Material: Alloy steel, nylon | Attributes: Mesh windows, top handles, carrying bag, three zippered doors

Tamara Staples

Best Hybrid

Casual home pet crate end table.

Durability 4.8 /5
Ease of Cleaning 3.7 /5

Four wood finishes: white, espresso, black, and walnut

Space to place a padded mat

Latch on door keeps it securely shut

Top surface used as end table can support up to 120 pounds

Not chew proof

Latch can be tricky to maneuver and secure

Crate pan and dog bed sold separately

The Casual Home Pet Crate End Table is available in four wood finishes to complement your home decor while providing a cozy den for your dog. The smallest size of this crate can accommodate dogs up to 18 pounds inside and the top surface, used as an end table, can support up to 120 pounds. The extra-large version can fit dogs up to 90 pounds and support 200 pounds on top.

To secure the door shut, the latch has a three-step process: pull out, move up, and then push down into place. We found it a little difficult to maneuver which then made it easier for our dog to get out. If you have a dog that is determined to get out, this crate is not the right choice, but if you have a dog that enjoys their den space, then this is a suitable option.

The crate pan and dog bed designed for the crate are sold separately, but you can also put a blanket or mat that your dog already loves inside to help them feel comfortable in their new space. Assembly is required, but it comes together easily with clear instructions provided.

Dimensions: 20 x 27.5 x 24 inches (small), 36.5 x 24 x 29.25 inches (medium) | Material: Wood | Attributes: Lockable door, windows

Best Budget, Metal Wire

Amazon basics metal wire dog crate.

Ease of Use 3 /5
Ease of Cleaning 3.5 /5

The crate maintained shape when picked up via handle on top with a 70-pound dog inside

Durable plastic tray is easy to remove for cleaning

Two doors and an optional divider

Door latches can be difficult to maneuver

The Amazon Basics Foldable Crate Metal Wire Dog Crate is sturdy and low maintenance. We tested the two-door style with one door on the short side of the rectangular shape and the other on the long side. The door latches are difficult to maneuver at first but loosen over time with use. If you are buying this crate for a puppy, a dividing gate is provided which gives you the option to expand the interior space they have access to as they grow. A durable plastic tray sized proportionally for each crate is easy to remove for cleaning with soap and water and dries quickly.

We placed our 70-pound dog inside the largest size of this crate (48 inches) and they had sufficient space to lay down. Using the handle on top, we were able to pick up the crate for a moment. The structure remained intact and supported our dog's weight.

Dimensions: 22 x 13 x 16 inches; 24 x 18 x 20 inches; 30 x 19 x 21 inches; 36 x 23 x 25 inches; 42 x 28 x 30 inches; 48 x 30 x 32.5 inches | Material: Metal, plastic | Attributes: Double door, foldable, removable tray

Best Heavy Duty

Rock creek crates stationary dog crate.

Security 4 /5

Crash-tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety

Appropriate for daily crate use and airline travel

Soft, removable pad included

10-year guarantee from manufacturer

Does not fit in all cars

The Stationary Dog Crate from Rock Creek Crates is designed to keep a dog secure and calm, even while in motion. The aluminum dog crate earned a five-star rating from the Center for Pet Safety (CPS) , a non-profit organization based in the United States that conducts automobile crash tests on travel products designed for dogs. We also tested this crate with a real dog in a real life setting, and our participating canine quickly felt at ease using the crate as their main den. The crate was also used to transport our participant dog more safely in an SUV.

The crate arrives fully assembled with a removable pad inside. It's easy to wipe clean inside and out, and has non-slip feet. The front door has a lock and key and butterfly latches to securely lock your dog safely inside for roadtrips and flights. It comes in a variety of colors and four sizes: medium (30), large (36), x-large (42), and xx-large (48). To find the right size for your dog, you should measure your dog's height and length while standing on all four paws. The medium size (30) is recommended for dogs up to 22 inches tall, and the xx-large (48) is recommended for dogs under 32 inches in height.

Depending on which crate size works for your dog, you should also double check that it will fit in your car. We found the crate to be too large to fit in a smaller hatchback, but it was easy to fit in a standard sized SUV. In addition to size, the crate on its own is heavy, so you'll need at least two adults to lift and carry. It's also more expensive than other crates on our list, but it comes with a 10-year guarantee from the manufacturer.

Dimensions: 30.5 x 20 x 22.5 inches (30/medium); 36.5 x 23.5 x 27.75 inches (36/large); 42.5 x 28.5 x 32.5 inches (42/x-large); 48 x 32.25 x 35 inches (48/xx-large) | Material: Aluminum | Attributes: Lockable door, windows

The Spruce Pets / Riddley Gemperlein-Schirm

Final Verdict

For a dependable dog crate that accommodates dogs of all shapes and sizes, we recommend the MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Single Door and Double Door Dog Crate . It's lightweight yet durable and folds down for easy transport and storage. If you're looking to splurge on a crate with more features, check out the Diggs Revol Dog Crate . Designed with safety in mind, it has an open, inviting feel that your pup will love.

How We Tested the Dog Crates

We tested 20 dog crates in The Lab in Industry City, Brooklyn. After setting up each crate, we conducted multiple strength tests on the crates to rate their durability. We asked each tester to place a 25- and 10-pound sandbag inside the dog crate and then apply 40 pounds of pulling pressure onto the door of the crate with a luggage scale. Testers then rated (out of 5) the crates on whether the door popped open, warped, or broke from the pressure of the scale. We also asked testers to throw a 25-pound sandbag at the side of each crate (this test was skipped for soft-sided crates) and rate its appearance and durability after the impact of the sandbag.

In addition to these strength tests, our testers also made judgments on each crate’s overall appearance, ease of use, and ease of cleaning. We also asked our testers to consider which categories or scenarios each crate would be best suited for and, finally, asked them to consider the crate’s overall value.

What to Look for in Dog Crates

Types of crates.

Wireframe Crate: Versatile style is easy to clean, collapsible, and often includes a divider to grow along with a puppy.

Carrier Crate: A structured kennel equipped with a handle is ideal for travel and may also function as the main den for a puppy or foster dog.

Foldable Crate: Easy to fold and to setup making this style amendable to travel and temporary extended stays.

Side Table Crate: The top external surface of the crate is functional for use as a side table or end table allowing the crate to blend into a room.

Aluminum Crate: Heavy-duty structured space provides lockable gate and maximum protection for travel at high speeds.

Safety is arguably the most important factor to consider when purchasing a dog crate, but the level of safety depends on the life stage and temperament of your pup. For example, a wooden crate might be safe for more mellow dogs who don't chew, but those with puppies or chewers will want to avoid this type.

Generally speaking, you’ll want to make sure that the crate has a stable frame that won't flip over or let your dog escape. Wire mesh options can pose more safety concerns , so you'll want to go for a durable, high-gauge metal option. This will minimize any possible injuries, like getting paws stuck in the wire or breaking out of the crate entirely, and give you greater peace of mind. Plastic options generally come with fewer safety risks, but you'll still want to make sure that the crate is chew-resistant, with no detachable pieces that can be swallowed or eaten.

The ideal crate size allows your pup to fully stand up and lie down, with room to stretch to his full body length without being constrained. But dogs still like a den-like experience, so make sure that the crate isn’t too big (for example, a smaller breed shouldn’t be housed in a crate intended for larger breeds).

So, when shopping for a crate, you’ll want to consult a dog crate size chart , considering your dog’s shape and size. Those needing crates for puppies might opt for a model that comes with divider panels, which allow the crate to grow with your pooch (and also come in handy for training).

Apart from practical design elements like a removable tray—more on that below—you’ll also want to consider the overall look of your potential crate. Your dog’s crate is most likely something you and your family will be seeing often, after all.

While a traditional wire mesh crate is neutral enough, if you’re looking for something that will either blend in or stand out a bit more, there are plenty of options. Those with wooden furniture might opt for a wooden crate, which is perfectly suited for the living room area (though those with puppies or chewers should opt for a more durable option). And if you want something a bit more Instagram-worthy, opt for something like the Diggs Revol Dog Crate, which is just as practical as it is easy on the eyes.

Dividers are a great way for your crate to grow with your dog, reducing the need to buy a new crate several times a year. As your puppy grows, you can adjust the amount of living space to suit her needs. Additionally, if you have two dogs that don’t get along, you can use a divider to split up their crate. Just make sure that each pup has enough space to do its thing.

Removable Tray

Ideally, your pup won’t be in a crate long enough to have to “do their business.” But accidents again, and when they do, you’ll be glad to have a tray that you can remove for cleaning. Luckily, most crates come with this feature; if not, you can purchase a separate fabric pad that will absorb any urine or other messes.

Casters can prove super useful for at-home crate use, as they allow you to more easily move your pup’s crate from one room to another. This is particularly great for puppies; when they’re still young and potty training, you can keep the crate in your bedroom or hallway (as you would a baby), and as they get older, you can move it to your living room or kitchen area. Just make sure to lock the casters in place every time to minimize accidents or tip-overs.

Measure your dog's height (top of head to front paws) and length (nose to tail) while they are standing on all four paws. Then add 2 to 4 inches on each measurement to help guide your sizing choice. Your dog should be able to stand up, sit, lay down, stretch, and spin around, but they shouldn't have too much extra space.

For most, a wireframe crate is sufficient for home use. It can serve as your dog's main den and help with potty training. You might need more than one crate depending on your lifestyle, whether you plan to travel with your dog, and the size of your dog.

Why Trust The Spruce Pets?

This article was originally written by dog expert Christina Donnelly , who is a writer and animal welfare advocate. When researching products to add to this article, we read dozens of customer and third-party-site reviews, keeping safety, style, and comfort in mind.

Emma Phelps , an updates writer for The Spruce, offered additional assistance in updating this article with our latest testing insights from The Lab. After reviewing our testers’ feedback on all 20 crates that were tested, Phelps and senior editors compiled the final list of crates in this roundup. She then converted our testing insights into digestible product descriptions to inform readers about the user experience with each crate and its overall value.

Best Dog Crates of 2024

A three year-old female golden retriever retreats to her crate near the window for a rest from family activity.

Imitating a denlike environment, dog crates will keep your pet safe, secure, and content while resting or unsupervised. Dog crates are available to suit any age or breed of dog and are often used at home or while traveling.

The needs of your dog and where you plan to use the crate will determine the best dog crate to buy. For instance, metal wire dog crates are common and affordable but may not be durable enough for very large or active dogs or suit your aesthetic preferences, and a dog crate for puppies should address the rapidly changing needs of a young dog while creating positive associations during the crate-training process. A quality dog crate can provide peace of mind for you and your pup at any life stage, and we've selected the best dog crates for dogs both large and small.

Table of Contents

Best Dog Crates
Things To Consider When Buying
How We Chose

MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Dog Crate »

Single- or double-door design

Tamper-resistant lock

Seven sizes available

Removable plastic pan

Divider can be a challenge to adjust

Hard to fold and unfold

The MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Dog Crate includes the most essential features for safely crating your dog, like a tamper-resistant lock that makes it harder for your pet to use a nose or paw to jiggle the lock loose and a removable plastic pan for quick cleanup of messes. Plus, it’s available in a range of sizes to ensure that toy to giant dog breeds will feel comfortable and secure.

We recommend this wire crate as the best option for most dogs. There’s plenty of visibility for your dog while crated, and the crate can fold flat for storage and includes a divider. However, the divider is sometimes tricky to move, and the entire crate can be difficult to fold flat and set up again. For that reason, it may be best to leave the crate set up once it's assembled.

The iCrate is available in a single- or double-door configuration. In an open space without any hindrances, the single-door option may be sufficient. If you need to move the crate frequently, having a front door and a side door gives you more flexibility on where to place the crate while still having easy access to and for your pet.

Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate »

Available in single- or double-door configurations

Folds flat for storage

Features secure, easy-to-use lock

Divider doesn’t go to the floor

Heavy to move

You don’t have to spring for a puppy palace to ensure that your dog is safe while unsupervised. You can spend less by opting for a frills-free wire dog crate, like this version from Amazon Basics. The budget-friendly price is the biggest advantage of this dog crate: A 22-inch crate for toy breeds starts at less than $30, and even the largest 48-inch crate is less than $100.

Despite an emphasis on affordability, this budget dog crate doesn’t cut corners on functionality. It has a manual lock mechanism to keep the door securely closed, which is frequently mentioned as a highlight of this crate by pet owners, who find it easy to use. You can also opt for a double-door crate design if having access from the front and side is necessary for your situation. A removable pan slides out from underneath the crate so that you can tidy up without needing to reach inside the crate.

There’s a removable divider panel inside the crate. It can be used to make the space smaller while your puppy is growing or during crate training, but it should be noted that it doesn’t extend to the floor like the divider panels of some other popular dog crates. The wire crate folds flat when not in use, although the metal construction makes it a bit heavy to move when compared to dog crates made of plastic. But for an affordable pick to keep your pooch safe at home, we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate.

Diggs Revol Dog Crate »

Front, side, and ceiling access points

Removable tray for easier cleanup

Training divider

Collapsible frame for transport

Can’t use side door with divider in place

To pick the right dog crate for your new puppy, you should consider your puppy’s current needs without overlooking how fast they’ll grow. An essential feature in a puppy crate is a removable divider, which allows you to give your puppy more room within the space as they grow and discourages them from using the extra space as a potty spot. In addition, pet expert Shaina Denny offers this advice: “Prioritize crates with rounded edges and no sharp points that could potentially harm your pet.”

With those factors in mind, we recommend the Diggs Revol Dog Crate. It includes a removable divider so that you can increase the available interior space as your puppy grows, and the floor of the crate functions as a removable tray for simple cleanup if your furry friend makes a mess. And, in line with Denny’s advice, this crate has rounded corners and no sharp edges that can harm you or your puppy. It’s not designed as a travel dog crate, but it does quickly fold flat and includes integrated wheels so you can easily pack it in your car if you take your puppy to a dog sitter or on vacation. The collapsible design also makes it easier to store the crate when not in use.

Although it’s more expensive than a basic metal dog crate, the Diggs Revol Dog Crate possesses more functionality and offers an appealing modern design aesthetic. Two doors are included: a front-opening swing door and a garage-style door on the side of the crate. (Just keep in mind that you can’t use the garage-style door while the divider panel is in place.) There’s also a top hatch opening so you can offer treats or pets to your puppy inside the crate without opening the door. The aluminum metal frame is available in three different colors and features diamond-shaped steel mesh to prevent your puppy's jaw or paws from becoming trapped. Rather than vertical metal bars that your dog may not be able to retract from if the paw or jaw is turned, the larger center opening of the diamond means that your pet has more room to pull back.

KindTail Pawd Modern Collapsible Plastic Dog & Pet Crate »

Two sizes to fit pets up to 25 pounds

Collapsible design for travel

Door stays open when unlocked

Available in multiple colors

Some guessing required to pick the right size

Although you might think that you’re doing your pet a favor, upgrading your pint-size pup to a large kennel can work to their disadvantage. In fact, a crate that’s too large can reduce the cozy, denlike environment of the space and encourage bad habits, like soiling in the crate. Instead, the best dog crate for small breeds should be small enough to comfortably fit your pet without giving them a lot of excess space. That’s exactly what you’ll find with the KindTail Pawd Modern Collapsible Plastic Dog & Pet Crate, which comes in two sizes.

The small Pawd is best for dogs that weigh approximately 4 to 12 pounds, while the medium version of the crate accommodates dogs between 7 and 25 pounds. The company points out that the sizing recommendations aren’t set in stone. For example, petite but tall breeds, like Italian greyhounds, might need to size up to the larger Pawd crate despite fitting the weight requirement for the small version, or compact breeds, like French bulldogs, might weigh more than the medium crate’s 25-pound weight limit but fit fine inside it. Carefully consult the size chart to pick the right crate for your small breed, but fortunately, KindTail does offer a 30-day window to return the crate if it’s not the right fit. (You’ll just have to pay for return shipping.)

Other features that make this small breed dog crate so convenient and appealing are the range of pretty pastel colors to choose from, a door that stays open when unlocked – many dogs like free access to their crate for napping or resting – and a collapsible design for the sake of portability. Unfortunately, there’s no handle on the top of the crate, but the fact that it’s lightweight – the small crate weighs 7 pounds and the medium weighs 12 pounds – means it’s not too much of a burden to lift the crate into your car or onto a shelf when not in use.

MidWest Homes for Pets Solutions XX-Large Heavy Duty Double Door Dog Crate »

Fits dogs up to 40 inches tall

Available in single- and double-door configuration

Design ensures structural stability

Assembly can be challenging

Pet parents of large or giant breed dogs face a special challenge when it comes to buying a dog crate. While most options are available in a range of sizes, not every option addresses the extra height or weight requirements of large breeds like mastiffs, Great Danes, or Newfoundlands. Keeping in mind Denny’s advice that the crate you choose should be “spacious enough for your dog to comfortably stand, turn around, and lie down,” we recommend the MidWest Homes for Pets Solutions XX-Large Heavy Duty Double Door Dog Crate because it’s specifically designed with large breeds in mind, as indicated by its supersized dimensions: 54 inches long, 37 inches wide, and 45 inches high.

In addition, the crate is reinforced in several ways to minimize the chance that your big dog will do damage to the cage’s structure. It has four drop-pins, which are rods that you insert through metal holes at each corner to keep the adjoining crate panels aligned and in place. In addition, L-shaped hooks along the top panel of the crate keep the sides erect and not bowed in. Three latches ensure that the door stays closed from top to bottom, and you can pick between single- and double-door styles.

Not surprisingly, this large breed dog crate is very heavy, and it doesn’t have any wheels to assist in repositioning the crate. However, portability isn’t usually a top concern when purchasing a crate of this size. Instead, this crate excels at what it’s designed to do: provide your big dog with the space necessary to be comfortable and safe when unsupervised.

Frisco Ultimate Heavy Duty Steel Metal Single Door Dog Crate »

Heavy-duty, 1/2-inch steel bars

Caster wheels with brake

Removable, slide-out metal tray for easy cleanup

Grated floor can be uncomfortable

No double-door option

The most durable dog crates are constructed of heavy-duty steel with secure locking mechanisms to keep your dog safe and minimize the chances of escape or damage to the crate. The Frisco Ultimate Heavy Duty Steel Metal Single Door Dog Crate stands out as a worthy option because it’s built with 22-gauge, 1/2-inch steel tubes rather than thin metal wire that can be chewed or bent by bored or anxious dogs. The solid steel tubes are powder-coated to resist rust and reinforced with welds at all stress points (where the metal bars intersect) to ensure structural stability.

The grated floor of this heavy-duty dog crate allows for any stray food or pet hair to fall through, but some pet owners prefer to use a crate mat or a bed to cushion the bottom of the crate. Underneath the grated floor of the crate is a removable metal tray. It has a front handle so you can slide the tray out and clean up any messes that accumulate.

A single door opens at the front of the crate but stays shut with the help of two sliding latches that are simple but sturdy. Four caster wheels make it easier to reposition the crate as needed, but a foot brake keeps the wheels locked in place when your dog is inside the crate. This heavy-duty dog crate is available in two sizes and accommodates dogs up to 37 inches tall.

Impact High Anxiety Crate »

Thick metal sides

Steel lock and four latches to securely hold door

10-year warranty

Interior finish shows scratches

The best chew-proof dog crate will be made of metal rather than plastic since metal is a more durable pick and is recommended as the best option for dogs who like to chew. The Impact High Anxiety Crate is an excellent pick for dogs who have previously damaged or escaped from their crates because of chewing.

Most notably, this crate features thick metal sides with plentiful but small (0.5-inch) ventilation holes that are designed to facilitate good airflow and provide visibility without being large enough for your dog to chew on. Dog owners frequently report that the Impact High Anxiety Crate is truly chew-proof and also seems to lower their dog’s stress level when they’re crated.

For even more peace of mind, this dog crate has a zinc-plated steel paddle latch that’s designed to withstand heavy force, like if your dog pushes up against the door of the crate. There are also four butterfly latches – a more secure form of a twist latch – around the door’s perimeter that provide reinforcement if your dog attempts to break out. A long-lasting 10-year warranty covers replacement parts or replacement of the entire crate if your dog does damage the crate or their own safety is compromised in some way. Aside from its steep price, a downside to this heavy-duty crate is that if your dog paws at the door, the finish is likely to become scratched.

SportPet Multifunctional Carrier »

International Air Transport Association (IATA) approved

Removable wheels

Extendable pull handle

Can fit up to two small dogs

Won’t fit large breed dogs

No removable tray for cleanup

When traveling with your dog by plane or car, you’ll want to ensure that you have a secure and comfortable crate for your pet. The SportPet Multifunctional Carrier is a standout choice because it’s equipped with four removable caster wheels and a telescoping handle so you can push or pull rather than carry the kennel over long distances.

The crate’s plastic housing requires no tools for assembly, but it’s reinforced with metal hardware for the sake of durability. The wheels are also easy to add or remove as needed, and they can be stored in a cubbyhole located on top of the kennel. This travel dog crate is approved by the IATA , although if you’re planning to use it for air travel, you should still check with the specific airline for any unique regulations for pet carriers.

SportPet makes a few popular travel crates, but this model is unique because of its double-door design. A removable, folding divider can be inserted to separate the crate space for two small dogs with a single door giving access to each side of the crate. However, this travel kennel is only suitable for pets measuring less than 19 inches tall and 31 inches long, so it’s not a good match for large breed dogs. It’s also worth noting that the crate floor has a recessed “gutter” to contain any messes, but, unlike dog crates for at-home use, there’s no removable tray to give you a quick way to clean up accidents.

Fable Crate »

Handcrafted wood exterior

Sliding door in acrylic or metal finish

Functions as a side table

Lacks removable floor pan

For a dog crate that doubles as decor, we recommend this wooden version from Fable. The Fable Crate is handcrafted from bentwood and available in a light natural look or a dark walnut finish. You can further customize this stylish dog crate by picking between a clear acrylic door or a white metal door, which reduces outward visibility for a more denlike environment.

The Fable Crate is designed to double as a side table in your living space or bedroom and has a furniture-grade appearance without sacrificing pet-friendly qualities, like visibility and ventilation. However, it’s a better pick for pooches past the puppy stage since there’s no divider to adjust the crate’s interior size as your puppy grows and it lacks a removable plastic floor tray for cleaning up any accidents. That being said, you can use a damp cloth to wipe the solid wooden floor clean.

There are three different crate sizes, and you’ll want to choose wisely since Fable doesn’t accept any returns on its crates. It’s also one of the more expensive dog crates to consider, but its high-quality materials, stylish design, and functionality as a side table have convinced many pet parents that it’s worth the spend.

The Bottom Line

The most important factors when choosing a dog crate are that it’s the right size for your pet and has sufficient ventilation and a secure lock. For the sake of hygiene and to keep odors away, it should be easy to clean, too. With those criteria in mind, we’ve chosen the iCrate Dog Crate by MidWest Homes for Pets as the best dog crate for most pets. Whether you have a large breed dog or a petite pup, it comes in seven sizes to match your pet’s needs. It also has a tamper-resistant lock, which is an important safety measure if you have a dog that’s known to play with the latch in an effort to escape.

Things To Consider When Buying Dog Crates

Size and Weight Capacity: Size is one of the most important factors to consider when deciding on the best dog crate for your situation. “To select the right size crate, measure your dog's height, length, and weight,” says Denny. “This helps ensure the crate provides ample space without being too confining.” Your pet should have enough space to easily stand up, lie down, and turn around within the crate. Keep in mind that there’s also such a thing as too much space. For some dogs, especially puppies, too much space within the crate can encourage the dog to relieve themselves and then move away from the mess rather than holding it until the next opportunity for a potty break.

Weight capacity is closely related to size. While it’s not always listed, larger crate sizes generally offer increased weight capacity. Keep in mind that, unless a crate is designated as safe for travel, it’s likely not meant to be transported with the weight of your dog inside. Doing so might compromise the integrity of the crate.

Durability and Materials: To ensure that a crate will keep your dog safe and secure, you should assess the crate's construction materials and examine its overall sturdiness. That’s especially true if your dog is a tough chewer. In that case, a crate with steel bars is likely to be a more durable option than plastic housing or even wire metal crates that can sometimes be damaged by persistent biting.

Denny suggests that pet parents ”Look for strong welds, well-made hinges, or locking mechanisms” as indicators of longevity and quality construction. Keep in mind that anxious, bored, or hyperactive dogs may require a heavy-duty dog crate. Don’t leave your dog unsupervised in a crate until you’ve been able to properly assess if the crate can contain your dog safely and securely.

Safety Features: A key aspect of a crate’s safety is its locking mechanism. The door of the crate should be securely held shut by a lock that’s simple for you to use but “nothing that the dog can figure out how to unlock or bypass,” says dog groomer Molly Bissantz. Some dog crates have been designed with latches that are difficult (if not impossible) for your dog to reach with a paw or nose. This prevents the dog from jiggling the latch into a position where it opens the door. That being said, some dogs are excellent escape artists, so you should initially observe your dog while locked in the crate to make sure that they aren’t able to open the latch. Other safety features that help to prevent escape include heavy-duty bars for the crate that aren’t easily bent or broken and reinforcements that keep the walls and roof securely connected.

Wire dog crates are popular and affordable, but be sure to inspect the crate for sharp edges or pinch points. In addition, plenty of airflow is a must, according to Denny: “Adequate ventilation is crucial for airflow, especially during warmer weather, ensuring your pet remains comfortable and safe.”

Cleaning and Maintenance: For the health and safety of your dog, you should regularly clean the crate and inspect it for any damage. Most dog crates can easily be wiped down with a soft, damp cloth and a nontoxic cleaning formula. The easiest dog crates to clean include a removable tray that catches pet hair, food, or other messes. Rather than reaching into the crate to collect debris and clean the floor, you can slide out the tray and wipe, rinse, and dry it without the hindrance of the crate in the way.

Portability and Storage: Regardless of whether or not you plan to travel, there might be times when you need to store the dog crate. Some crates are designed with portability in mind and have a frame that quickly collapses. A collapsible crate takes up less space and will be easier to store in a closet or under the bed . These crates can be set up in a matter of minutes without any tools and are a good solution if you frequently bring your dog to a friend or family member’s house and want your dog to have a familiar, safe space to rest.

If you’re looking for a travel dog crate, you should consider how easy it is to maneuver the crate and store it when not in use. Some of the best dog crates for travel have wheels and a handle, saving you from carrying the crate with your furry friend inside. That’s especially important if you need a travel crate for a large breed dog. If you’ll be traveling on a plane, be sure that you choose a crate that’s approved for air travel and meets the specific requirements of the airline.

Design and Aesthetics: While your dog’s needs and well-being should be the priority when comparing dog crates, there are plenty of choices that appeal to the design preferences of pet parents. You might especially be concerned with aesthetics if you’re shopping for a dog crate that’ll be on display in your living room or bedroom. Dog crates are typically made from metal, plastic, or wood. The overall design can be influenced by the color or finish of the crate. In addition, some crates — especially those made of wood — might be designed like furniture and will more seamlessly blend in next to your sofa or bed.

How We Chose the Best Dog Crates

At U.S. News 360 Reviews, we know that a crate is an essential item for most dog owners and can contribute to your dog’s safety and well-being. With that in mind, we consulted pet professionals to learn more about the most important features to consider for various scenarios and dogs with different needs, including puppies and large breeds. For this article, our contributing writer gathered tips from Shaina Denny, co-founder and CEO of Dogdrop , about the features that will make your dog feel safe and comfortable in a crate. She also interviewed Molly Bissantz, the owner of Grooming by Molly , to learn more about how to choose the proper size and what to consider in terms of durability. Based on their expert insights and our own experience shopping for and using dog crates, we’ve selected the safest and sturdiest options available for the best price.

WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?

Erica Puisis , the author of this piece, has been researching, testing, and writing about the best home and lifestyle products to buy since 2017. For U.S. News 360 Reviews, she’s covered a range of the best products for pet owners from dog dental chews to retractable dog leashes and cat carriers . She has also compiled dozens of cat and dog breed profiles and has a background working for a veterinary practice, plus experience training and caring for pets of her own. For this article, Erica referenced her experience shopping for a dog crate for her miniature dachshund. In addition to U.S. News 360 Reviews, Erica has contributed to The Spruce Pets and Forbes Vetted.

Picking the right size dog crate is essential for your dog’s comfort. Dog groomer Bissantz offers this advice: Measure the dog's length and height, adding at least 6 inches to each measurement. This will help to ensure that your dog has enough space to stand, turn, and lie down.

Regarding style, Denny, the CEO of Dogdrop, points out that different types of crates have unique advantages, as “wire crates offer excellent ventilation, wood ones can be more aesthetically pleasing, [and] plastic ones create a cozy denlike environment.”

Since durability is a crucial aspect of a crate’s safety and longevity, it’s one of the most important features to assess when comparing options. Denny, a co-founder of Dogdrop, suggests ”Reading reviews or seeking recommendations from other pet parents” to gain insight regarding how durable a crate may be in the long run.

A dog crate constructed of quality materials with plenty of ventilation and a sturdy locking mechanism is going to be the safest choice for your pet. Inspect the crate for any broken components or sharp points and edges. Observe your dog in the crate for a while before leaving your pet alone to ensure that you haven’t overlooked any safety hazards.

Proper training and plenty of exercise are key to ensuring that your dog is content when crated, according to Bissantz, a dog groomer. A dog that isn’t properly trained or doesn’t receive sufficient exercise can become overly anxious, fearful, or destructive while crated.

Along with properly crate training your dog, you can make sure that your dog feels comfortable in the crate by adding soft bedding, like a crate mat or blanket , says Denny of Dogdrop. She also suggests that you “Keep the crate in a quiet, comfortable location and avoid using it as punishment to foster positive associations.”

About Our Team

Erica Puisis

Contributor

Kayla Randolph

Associate Editor

U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

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The 15 Best Travel Dog Crates & Carriers [2023]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

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Editor-in-Chief

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The 15 Best Travel Dog Crates & Carriers [2023]

Things To Consider With Travel Dog Crates

1. luxury carrier for high-flying pooches, 2. superstrong pet carrier for use on the plane, 3. multi-purpose crate for adventurous dogs, 4. rolling dog carrier for longer journeys, 5. 2-in-1 carrier and rolling kennel, 6. fuss-free travel kennel for everyday use, 7. lightweight pet carrier for easy transportation, 1. basic dog crate that can fold down for easy storage, 2. soft dog crate for smaller breeds, 3. plastic carry crate for the trunk of your car, 4. multi-purpose crate for bigger pooches, 5. heavy-duty crate for dogs who like their own personal space, 6. excellent pop-up-style dog crate, 7. collapsible crate for use in your vehicle, 8. for dogs who like to be close by you, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Keep your dog safe and calm with a dedicated doggie travel crate or carrier. Made from strong and durable materials, they are comfortable, secure, and an absolute must-have for dog lovers who never want to leave their furry friends behind.

Not all dog crates are suitable for every size of dog or type of journey. Consider the following before you buy:

There are 2 main types of crates and carriers to choose from, with both styles being better suited to different situations and doggie personalities:

Hard-sided Crates and Carriers — These are an excellent choice for long road trips and can be used as a secure spot for your dog to sleep in when you reach your destination.

Strong and sturdy, they are also an excellent choice for dogs who like to chew, and the molded plastic construction is easy to clean between uses.

Soft-sided Crates and Carriers — These are good for dogs who are used to traveling, and the lightweight design makes them more suitable for use on airplanes and shorter journeys.

As long as you choose the right size to suit your dog, these flexible carriers are easy for you to carry and come with additional features, such as padded shoulder straps and handy storage pockets.

While you may be restricted by airline regulations or the physical size of your cargo area, it is super important that the dog crate or carrier that you choose has enough space for your dog to travel comfortably in.

It should be big enough for your pooch to sit, stand, sleep and turn around in while still being compact enough to keep them feeling safe and secure. As a general rule, the crate or carrier you choose should be no more than 6 inches longer than your dog.

Crates and carriers are usually available in different sizes to suit a wide variety of breeds. Measure your dog from his neck to his rear legs and again from his shoulders to the ground to get a good idea of which size crate or carrier will suit him best.

Most manufacturers will also recommend a maximum weight for their crates and carriers . This is particularly important if you are planning on carrying your dog around in it.

If your dog is between weights or sizes, always choose the crate or carrier that can offer the greatest capacity to ensure that it is strong enough and roomy enough for them to feel comfortable in.

The crate or carrier you choose should be strong and sturdy enough to secure your 4-legged friend in transit without making them feel scared or uncomfortable.

Look for crates and carriers that have strong zippers or clasps on the doors to stop your dog from making an escape, and only ever choose a model that offers mesh sides or ventilation slots to ensure that your dog can breathe easily.

If you are traveling in your vehicle, the crate or carrier should be kept secure using the seat belt or shoulder harness to stop your dog from being thrown around on the road.

Some dogs get very nervous when traveling, and others really don’t like being confined in a crate or carrier.

Try and make them feel more comfortable by looking for options that offer soft and cozy seating areas that can be washed between uses , and maybe throw their favorite toy or blanket in there with them.

Bottom Line: Mesh sides are not only useful for ventilation, but they also let your dog see out, which may help them to feel more relaxed if they have eyes on their favorite humans at all times.

The 7 Best Travel Dog Crates for Airlines

Sherpa travel original deluxe airline approved pet carrier.

Take your 4-legged friend away with you in this awesome lightweight pet carrier. Suitable for medium-sized dogs, this carrier measures 17 x 11 x 10.5 inches and can hold up to 16 pounds in weight. With a patented spring wire frame, it can be pushed down to ensure that it fits neatly under your seat in transit.

Perfect for use while you fly, your dog will love the comfortable faux lambskin liner , and with a nonslip carrying handle and useful rear pocket for treats and poop bags, owners will love the convenience that this brilliant travel crate offers.

Available in a choice of colors for stylish doggos and their owners, this portable pet carrier can be folded up small for easy storage when not in use. Also available in a choice of small or large sizes, the Sherpa carry-on for your pooch is ready and waiting for your next adventure.

What We Like

This bag is super sturdy and incredibly comfortable

What We Don’t Like

The carrier is not as luxurious as some other models out there

Hot Tip: For all of your pet’s accessories, check out our guide to the best dog travel bags , including totes and backpacks.

Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier

This hardside pet crate offers increased security for your furry friend while also being lightweight and travel-friendly.

Made from durable plastic materials, it has been constructed using non-corrodible wing nuts , extra-strong steel wire, and an interlocking door to enhance protection and ensure that your dog will never escape or be injured during transit.

Available in a choice of sizes, you can choose from the 21-, 28-, 32-, 36-, 40-, and 48-inch options to ensure that your dog has enough space to suit its size, and with vented openings all around it, this crate will ensure that your dog stays safe and healthy.

The carrier has super-tough construction and additional safety features
This crate can feel heavy when your dog is in it

Petmate Vari Kennel Heavy-Duty Dog Travel Crate

Comfortable and incredibly secure, this awesome travel crate is suitable for use both on the airplane and as a comfortable kennel space when you reach your destination.

With tie-down strap holds and wire vents for ventilation, your pooch will stay safely in place during your flight, and with an easy-open front latch, you can quickly release your dog for much-needed cuddles when you arrive.

The raised interior is perfect for letting them sleep on their favorite blanket, and suitable for dogs weighing up to 70 pounds, this travel crate lets your best friend travel everywhere with you.

Designed to meet most airline cargo specifications, this super-secure travel crate will help to keep your dog calm and relaxed as they fly. Also available in a range of smaller sizes, there is a Petmate Vari Travel Kennel to suit all breeds of dogs.

This travel kennel is practical, durable, and pleasingly affordable
There is no carry handle

Coopeter Airline Dog Carrier

Unique and highly portable, this rolling dog carrier makes light work of long journeys for you and your 4-legged friend.

Made from superstrong materials, it comes with a detachable 4-wheel platform and a longer-length handle that lets you pull the carrier along behind you.

With additional nonslip grab handles and an adjustable shoulder strap , you can also use it without the wheels when you want to. With mesh sides, your pooch will be able to breathe well and keep its eye on you at all times, and the soft-sided interior provides a warm and cozy space for naps.

Measuring up at 19.7 x 12.2 x 11.8 inches, this pet carrier is suitable for small-breed dogs, and when not in use, it can be folded up compact for easy storage. Comfortable, cozy, and incredibly cool, your dog will love traveling around in this innovative dog carrier.

The wheeled base and extendable handle are convenient to use
It is quite small, so check the measurements

SportPet Designs Rolling Plastic Kennel

This portable kennel has a spacious interior and a sturdy build, and your pooch will quickly grow to love it almost as much as you do.

The convenient removable wheels make it a breeze to glide through the airport, and with 2 dishes, 4 live animal stickers, tie-down bungee straps, and metal bolts and nuts included, this carrier meets all the IATA airline requirements for dogs in transit .

Available in a selection of sizes from S through to 3XL, this rolling pet kennel can accommodate all breeds of dog, and with superfast assembly, it is perfect for use both while traveling and back at home.

For added security, this crate also comes with locking snaps on the sides and a strong metal door with an easy-to-grasp latch to ensure that your best friend is safely tucked away during the journey.

This is a good-sized, very secure travel kennel
It is quite heavy when your dog is in it

Aspen Pet Traditional Kennel

With sturdy plastic construction, this traditional-style dog carrier is an excellent choice for pets weighing between 20 and 30 pounds.

Offering a simple, fuss-free design, your furry best friend can enjoy 360-degree ventilation to feel cool and comfortable , and the easy-to-open squeeze latch door is perfect for superfast loading and unloading.

In addition, the raised interior is a safe and comfortable space for your dog, and the secure tie-down holes will ensure that your best bud doesn’t slide around in transit.

Easy to carry using the top handle, this travel kennel also comes in smaller 20- and 25-inch versions for smaller breeds. The functional design makes this suitable for use as a training kennel at home and a secure and safe space for traveling.

The design is fuss-free and easy to use
It doesn’t feel quite as high quality as some of its competitors

Petsfit Airline Approved Dog Carrier

Lightweight and easy to carry, this travel dog carrier comes with a nonslip shoulder strap and grab handles, making it easy to take your best friend with you while you travel.

The mesh sides help to keep your dog cool, and the wire frame ensures that this carrier keeps its shape in transit.

Designed to conform perfectly with the under-seat dimensions of most airlines, your 4-legged friend can stay by your side as you fly, and the built-in safety tether on the inside will ensure that your pet is safely secured at all times .

For increased comfort, this brilliant carrier comes with a soft fleece mat that will help your pooch feel at home along the way, and with an additional backstrap, you can fasten the carrier to your luggage for seamless transportation around the airport.

The carrier can be folded up when not in use
It doesn’t feel substantial enough to hold heavier dogs

The 8 Best Travel Dog Crates for Cars

Amazon basics portable folding soft dog travel crate.

This soft-sided and easy-to-fold 36-inch dog crate is perfect for road trips and overnight stays and offers plenty of comfort and security for even the most nervous of 4-legged travelers.

With 2 separate doors, it is easy to load and unload your pet for their next big adventure, and with ventilation on all 4 sides, your dog will be able to breathe easily along the way.

The secure zipper closures keep the crate secure, and with roll up and down doors, you can let your dog see out or roll them back down when it’s time to snooze.

Made from strong and durable polyester material, this crate comes with a PVC frame that can be set up and folded back down in an instant , and with the ability to hold up to 90 pounds in weight, this is an excellent option for larger breeds.

The crate is spacious and highly durable
It doesn’t come with carrying handles

EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate

This 24-inch dog crate is also available in larger 20-, 30-, 36-, and 42-inch versions, and the soft-sided design offers incredible versatility and comfort for your furry friend.

With a strong steel frame, it is sturdy enough to handle your pup’s weight, and the highly durable 600D fabric and hex mesh fabric will keep your dog well-ventilated in transit .

Designed to be wider and higher than most standard dog crates, your dog will have plenty of space to move around, and with 2 accessory pockets on the outside, you can keep their treats, leashes and other essentials close at hand.

As an added bonus, this model also comes with a free fleece bed included, as well as a carry bag, giving you and your pooch everything you need to stay safe, comfortable, and most of all calm on long car journeys or back at home.

This soft crate offers stress-free transportation
The zippers don’t feel secure enough for dogs that push against them

Ferplast Atlas Scenic SUV & Car Dog Crate

Suitable for medium-size breeds, this crate measures 39 x 26 x 26 inches, making it suitable for use in the cargo area of most SUVs and hatchbacks.

Strong enough to comfortably hold dogs weighing as much as 60 pounds, this crate comes with super-sturdy molded handles that let you lift the crate (and dog) in and out of the vehicle when you need to.

Offering vented panels all the way along the sides , this model offers excellent ventilation to keep your dog comfortable and relaxed along the way, and the tough plastic and metal mesh is designed to withstand even the most enthusiastic of 4-legged friends.

With a convenient locking system built into the front door and a sliding opening, this crate will keep your dog safely contained while also helping to save space in your cargo area, and the versatile design can be completely dismantled for easy storage when not in use.

This crate fits most vehicles
It doesn’t feel that it would be able to stand up to escape artists

Noz2Noz Soft-Krater Indoor and Outdoor Crate for Pets

This soft-sided crate lets you take your best friend on long road trips with you, and the versatile and highly portable design is comfortable and convenient for your dog.

Made with a water-resistant base, it is perfect for nervous pooches as it can be cleaned up very easily , and the fully washable cover can be thrown into the machine between uses.

With a sturdy steel frame, it is designed to be strong and durable, and the novel design can be set up and folded down in an instant.

With mesh panels for increased ventilation and a better view for your 4-legged friend, this crate comes with rounded corners to prevent scratches. Available in a selection of sizes, this model can fit pets weighing up to 100 pounds.

The crate can easily be cleaned between uses
The zipper closure feels a bit flimsy

Petsfit Portable Soft Collapsible Dog Crate

This 30-inch foldable dog crate is strong enough to comfortably carry dogs weighing up to 88 pounds, and the spacious interior has been designed to keep your pooch feeling calm and comfortable.

Made from high-quality materials, it comes with grid doors on the front, top, and side for easier loading and unloading, and the pocket on the back is a handy space to hold treats, snacks, leashes, and other doggie travel accessories.

Featuring an upgraded hexagonal structure grid, this crate is incredibly sturdy , and with Velcro-zippered doors, your dog will stay safely housed at all times.

With rounded corners on the top, this crate will slip neatly into your vehicle without causing any damage to the interior, and the foldable steel frame has a washable soft cover and can be folded down quickly for convenient storage when not in use.

The spacious interior is perfect for larger dogs
The mesh doesn’t feel particularly strong

Petsfit Collapsible Soft Dog Crate

Perfect for small and medium breeds, this pop-up style dog crate measures 30 x 20 x 19 inches and has 2 doors for easier loading and unloading.

Both doors can be rolled up so your dog can see out, and the mesh panels allow for increased ventilation along the way.

Lightweight while still being incredibly sturdy , this dog crate can also be used as an open bed, giving your dog their own space — both in transit and when you reach your destination.

With a removable and washable soft pad, this is a super-comfy base for your best friend while you are away from home.

With a patented screw-in design that lets you set the crate up in seconds, this is an awesome travel crate that can easily be dismantled and stored between uses.

The crate sets up superfast
There are more sturdy dog crates out there

Amazon Basics Folding Soft Dog Crate

This awesome soft-sided dog crate is anything but basic and offers a cost-effective way to transport your best friend from A to B.

Measuring 26 x 18 x 18 inches, this model is suitable for small breeds weighing between 12 and 25 pounds, but it also comes in 21- , 30-, 36-, and 42-inch versions for dogs of varying sizes . Made from durable polyester and PVC materials, it collapses down for quick and easy storage.

For added convenience, it also features accessory pockets on the top and the side for storing treats and other essentials, and with a top handle and shoulder strap, it is easy to carry your dog around in.

On the inside, the plush fleece-covered pet bed offers superior comfort on the road, and the multiple screened panels offer increased ventilation and an excellent opportunity for your pooch to keep a watchful eye on you.

The crate is comfy, practical, and easy to use
The mesh isn’t strong enough to handle dogs that like to chew

SlowTon Dog Booster Car Seat

If your dog thinks it’s human, this convenient and comfortable doggie car seat might be just the thing for it to enjoy.

Made with a reinforced metal frame, this crate provides a safe and comfy shelter for dogs who like to ride in cars, and the quick and easy installation makes it easy to fit and remove from your car seat as often as necessary.

The nonslip rubber bottom won’t slide around on the back seat of your car , and the seat belt tether will keep your dog secure. With mesh windows on 3 sides, this model offers excellent ventilation, and the front and top zipper doors let you load and unload your dog without a fuss.

With a washable and reusable pet pee pad on the bottom, your seats will stay clean and dry, even with the most anxious of doggies, and with the ability to fold up flat when not in use, this is a super-fancy and incredibly safe way for your dog to travel around with you.

Pets are easy to secure and buckle in
The locking system could be sturdier

Whether you are looking for an airplane carrier for your bichon frise or a cargo crate for your husky, there are lots of safe and comfortable ways to keep your best friend by your side.

From hard-sided crates to soft and flexible carriers, finding the right model for you and your dog will let you both enjoy many miles of adventures together.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i get my dog used to a travel crate.

Start slowly and be patient when getting your dog used to a travel crate. Leave the door open and line the crate with your dog’s favorite blanket and even an item of your clothing, so they feel comfortable. Use lots of treats and positive reinforcement to create a positive association.

Is it safe for a dog to travel in a crate?

Crates are an excellent and safe way to transport your dog in cars or while flying. Look for crates that have strong zippers, clasps, and sturdy doors.

What size travel crate does my dog need?

Measure your dog’s length from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail. Your travel dog crate should be no more than their length plus 6 inches. Also, make sure that your dog has enough room to sit, lie down, and turn around comfortably.

How do I choose a travel crate for my dog?

There are several things to consider when choosing a travel crate for your dog. Safety and comfort will be high on your list of criteria. It’s also important to get the correct size for your dog, and the weight will also be a key consideration, especially for air travel.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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The Best Dog Crate

By Kaitlyn Wells

No dog owner wants to come home to overturned trash cans or a pile of poo on the floor. A good dog crate is an essential to allay such mishaps—and help your pet thrive. This crate is a cozy and safe resting place that keeps even the most curious pooches contained while their humans are out of the house. Enlisting area rescue pooches and our own escape-artist dogs, we put 17 crates to the test. And we found the MidWest Ultima Pro Double Door Folding Dog Crate to be the best all-around crate. It’s sturdy and secure, and it comes in five sizes, each designed to last a lifetime: This crate adapts with your puppy as they grow, thanks to removable dividers.

Everything we recommend

MidWest Ultima Pro Double Door Folding Dog Crate

The best dog crate.

This crate is the sturdiest and most escape-resistant, and it folds up and transports easily. Also, it will last for the lifetime of your pet.

Buying Options

MidWest LifeStages Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate

Almost as tough and secure.

This crate often costs 30% less than our top pick, but it’s made with slightly thinner wire. It’s lighter, but it might not last as long.

Budget pick

Frisco Heavy Duty Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate

Durable but heavy to carry.

This dog crate, often available at half the price of our main pick, is sturdy and secure. But the larger design makes it more awkward to carry.

Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel

For more security or regular air travel.

With its sturdy plastic shell and secure door latch, this model is great for use at home or on a plane. But its smaller windows provide less of a view for your pup.

The MidWest Ultima Pro Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate has a tight grid of thick wire that makes it resistant to escape and damage. Its bottom pan won’t give in to claws and can’t be pushed out by paws, unlike the flimsier pans included with cheaper models. It folds up securely into a briefcase-style rectangle with solid clip-on handles, and it won’t come undone in a cacophonous crash if you grab the wrong part. Even if you are certain your dog doesn’t suffer from separation anxiety and won’t work to escape a crate, the Ultima Pro represents a sound investment in a safe space for your dog—and for future dogs as well.

The MidWest LifeStages Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate is designed with a slightly looser grid and thinner wire than other crates we tested, so it’s lighter and easier to carry. This crate is often 30% cheaper than the Ultima Pro. So if money is tight and you’re fairly certain your dog will stay calm in a crate, the LifeStages will do. However, that lighter design makes the LifeStages crate less likely to withstand long-term wear from a more-destructive dog.

The Frisco Heavy Duty Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate features thick wire that’s just as durable as that of our main pick, but this crate often costs half the price. The locking mechanism keeps dogs securely inside, and the removable tray doesn’t warp or slide out of the base after a dog has used it. But this wire crate is sold in slightly larger dimensions across sizes than other crates we tested. Overall, the Frisco dog crates are about 2 inches bigger, making them slightly heavier and more cumbersome to carry when folded up than the MidWest models we recommend.

If you need a crate that you can use to occasionally fly with a dog, or you want something that a tenacious dog is less likely to escape from at home, a solid plastic crate (sometimes called a “sky kennel”) is a good bet. Petmate’s Ultra Vari Kennel is the go-to among the dog trainers we interviewed, and it’s the best travel-friendly pick for most dogs. This crate is easy to assemble and simple to latch shut, and it has proper tie-downs for safer airline travel in a plane’s belly. (This model is not specifically designed for in-car use, though, so consider a restraint harness instead). The Ultra Vari’s secure design features only one door, rather than two on adjacent sides like on our other picks. That leaves fewer ways for your pup to escape. But if you’re using this crate at home, in a crowded room it may be harder to find a spot for it where your dog gets a good view. The crate’s narrow windows also restrict the view, which might be a concern if you’ve got a particularly curious pup—or one with FOMO.

The research

Why you should trust us, who needs a dog crate, what size dog crate should i buy, how we picked, how we tested, our pick: midwest ultima pro double door collapsible wire dog crate, runner-up: midwest lifestages double door collapsible wire dog crate, budget pick: frisco heavy duty fold & carry double door collapsible wire dog crate, also great: petmate ultra vari kennel, the competition, frequently asked questions.

As Wirecutter’s pets writer, I’ve covered everything from dog harnesses and GPS pet trackers to pet separation anxiety and training basics. I’m also a pet owner and experienced animal shelter volunteer who’s dealt with her fair share of both problematic and exceptional dog crates.

This guide builds on reporting by Kevin Purdy, a journalist and dog owner who has crate-trained his puggle Howard using a variety of crates. He’s also written earlier versions of Wirecutter’s guides to standing desks and bed frames, among others.

For this guide, we interviewed an expert dog-behavior trainer, a veterinary technician, and two of the manufacturers of crates we tested. We also read many relevant books and posts on dog training and behavior, to get input on what makes a good dog crate. 2 And we partnered with Friends with Four Paws , an Oklahoma-based pet rescue, to test out our crates with its dogs, both at home and during cross-country trips to meet their new families.

Not everyone buys or uses a dog crate, but they probably should. Everybody should at least consider a dog crate when they first bring home a dog, whether they’re puppy or full-grown, purebred or rescue. Veteran dog trainer Tyler Muto recommends a crate for each and every dog owner he works with. “If you talk to two dog trainers, the only thing you can get them to agree on is that the third dog trainer is wrong,” Muto said. “Other than that, almost every dog trainer will tell you that a crate is an essential tool for dog owners.”

At the least, crates help prevent accidents while dogs are being housebroken , and they keep dogs from accessing dangerous or unhealthy foods or objects when the owners are absent. Keeping a dog in a crate can halt the pet’s tough-to-break habit of destroying household items and furniture while an owner is away, Muto said. 1 Crates also provide a space where your dog feels safe and at home, and they allow owners to separate a dog from guests, contractors, or temptations when necessary.

Not everybody needs the same crate, however. For people who have dogs with significant separation anxiety or escape-artist tendencies, or for those who have to travel often with their dogs, a solid plastic crate may be needed. For those with dogs who fare better in a crate, or for people who need a crate only occasionally, it’s fine to use a wire crate that easily folds into a suitcase-style rectangle with handles.

People who want to use a crate regularly in a common area of the house—and who have a very crate-friendly dog with no separation anxiety—might prefer a furniture-style crate that blends in with their decor or can be used as an end table. However, over the years we’ve yet to find a model that meets our criteria for safety and security at a reasonable price, so we don’t recommend them . And though it might seem like a nice idea to use your dog’s chic crate as an end table—topped with books or a snazzy lamp—placing items on top of any crate can be dangerous should an accident occur.

Lastly, a wire crate isn’t ideal for owners who don’t plan on removing their dog’s collar each time they crate them. For a dog, wearing a collar in a crate introduces a risk of entanglement , which can result in injury or strangulation . As a result, many veterinary clinics and boarding facilities have strict collar-removal policies for dogs in their care. At the very least, collared dogs should wear break-away or similar safety collars without tags that can get caught on the crate.

All of our dog-crate picks come in multiple sizes, so whether you’ve got a Cockapoo or a Chow Chow, you’ll likely be able to find a crate that’s the right size for your dog.

Get the most bang for your buck by choosing a crate with dimensions based on your dog’s adult size or projected adult size (if they’re still a puppy). All of our wire-crate picks have plastic dividers, to help adjust the crate space as puppies grow.

According to the Association of Professional Dog Trainers , a dog’s crate should be big enough for them to stretch out and stand to turn around without bumping their head. To find the right-size crate for your dog, note your dog’s weight, and measure their height and length from nose to tail. Manufacturers often share weight ranges or recommendations for their crates along with the dimensions. And though weight is important in gauging crate size, the measurements are key to ensuring the dog has enough room to be comfortable in the space.

For adult dogs, the APDT advises owners to add 4 inches of extra room to their measurements, and to select a crate with dimensions that size, scaling up if needed (a bigger crate is better than a smaller one). For puppies, add 12 inches to their height measurement to account for their potential adult size. Be sure to use the included dividers found in our wire-crate picks to block off the unused area, since puppies are prone to soiling in their crate if there’s a lot of extra space. (You can read more potty-training basics in How to Potty Train Your Puppy .)

The APDT has a handy chart to help guide you on which crate size might be right for your breed. If you need to buy a plastic travel crate for a puppy, keep in mind that those don’t come with dividers. In that case, it’s best to opt for a crate that fits your dog now, and then size up to a new crate as they grow.

Our four picks for the best dog crate, three of them with wire sides and one with plastic sides.

We read up on crate training from trusted sources like the Animal Humane Society , American Kennel Club , Association of Professional Dog Trainers , and Humane Society of the United States . We also assembled a panel of Wirecutter pet owners to chat about their expectations for dog crates. Then we interviewed credentialed dog behaviorists about the role of a good dog crate. Those we spoke with included Tyler Muto, a dog trainer at K9 Connection in Buffalo, New York, who has also served as president of the International Association of Canine Professionals , and Judi Bunge, a veterinary technician at McClelland Small Animal Hospital in Buffalo.

We then sifted through hundreds of internet listings and dozens of options from our local pet stores. We learned that every crate—no matter how high its ratings or expert recommendations—was the subject of at least one review story about a dog escaping or, worse, injuring themself trying to escape. Still, at the time of our research, some crates had attracted a number of complaints about specific flaws: doors that easily bent, latches that popped open with the bump of a nose, or trays that dogs could slide out through the bottom.

A screenshot of a zoom chat window with six Wirecutter staffers and their pets.

We eliminated wire crates that did not come with a removable divider because this inexpensive addition makes a crate resizable as your puppy grows. We also favored wire crates that had two doors, since that design allows for more-convenient placement, especially in smaller or irregularly shaped rooms. The plastic crates we reviewed were the exception to these rules because they can be used for air travel.

With these findings, the advice of our experts, and the input of a panel of dog-loving Wirecutter staffers, we identified a small set of contenders, ranging from $60 to $250, in wire, plastic, and furniture-style crates.

A person with a beard and ball cap kneels on the floor to examine the bottom of a dog crate we tested.

In 2022, we enlisted the volunteers at Friends with Four Paws , a rescue group in Oklahoma. Prior to joining Wirecutter, I adopted my dog Sutton from this rescue, and I also consulted the group for Wirecutter’s dog beds guide . Friends with Four Paws rescues animals from municipal shelters and owner surrenders, and the group transports many of them from Oklahoma to New York for adoption. So these dogs are well suited for testing out dozens of crates that need to withstand wear and tear, and we tested the crates with dogs weighing from 12 pounds to 80 pounds.

Dog trainer Tyler Muto was a key part of our original testing for this guide. He inspected each crate and considered each for its structural strength, tamper-resistant locks, and the quality of the lining tray. He also considered how easy each crate was to collapse, set up, and clean.

Overall, a quality wire dog crate should be easy to carry in one secure bundle, and, if necessary, sturdy enough to last through multiple dogs. A good plastic crate should be much the same (though it isn’t broken down often), and it should provide the necessary security and tie-downs for air travel. A furniture crate drops most pretenses of damage resistance, but it should still be sturdy, and its looks and convenience are far more important than with wire or plastic crates.

Along with Muto’s examination, we examined and tested the crates ourselves. To verify each crate’s strength against pulling teeth or forceful paws, we used a luggage scale to apply roughly 50 pounds of pulling pressure to each cage’s door, at the center and then at a looser corner away from the latch. We set up and broke down each wire crate at least a dozen times. After latching each crate shut and attaching its plastic handle, we carried each crate to three locations to see how well it stayed together (not all of the crates did so). We pulled the plastic tray out from each crate to see how easy it was to remove and whether cleaning involved any tricks or problems. Finally, we ran our hands around the corners and edges of each crate, looking for sharp wire, plastic edges, or unfinished corners that could injure a dog or a human.

A small dog sitting in our pick for the best dog crate, the MidWest Ultima Pro Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate.

The MidWest Ultima Pro Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate is the crate to get if you want one that will last for the lifetime of your dog, and if you’re likely to have another dog (or many more) in the future. This crate comes in five sizes, the smallest being 24 inches long; the largest clocks in at 48 inches long and can suit many large breeds.

Ultimately, our testers favored this crate over all others. Friends with Four Paws secretary Kim Crawford said that the Ultima Pro “definitely felt the most reliable and heavy enough to withstand even the toughest dogs,” and Kim noted that the rescue has always liked the brand.

This crate’s wire was thicker and its grid tighter than any other reasonably priced crate we tested, and 50 pounds of pulling pressure didn’t affect it at all. Our testers said the lock remained secure and was easy for them to latch and unlatch. The crate also folded fluidly down into a “suitcase” for carrying and was easy to set up again.

The Ultima Pro’s tray is removable, but only by humans, and it’s easy to clean and tough. Available in five sizes, this crate comes with a divider for use with growing puppies, and it has rubber feet to prevent scratched floors—a hidden-gem feature of the Ultima Pro. It comes with a one-year warranty for manufacturing defects from MidWest , which has been in business since 1921 and making dog crates since the 1960s.

This crate is made of thicker wire than most crates in its price range, and it’s noticeably heavier. The Ultima Pro model that measures 36 inches on its longest side weighs 38 pounds. Other best-selling double-door crates of the same size weigh 18 to 20 pounds. But unless you’d be moving your crate often and would have trouble with that weight, we think the durability of the Ultima Pro is worth it.

Close view of the locking mechanism on the MidWest Ultima Pro Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate.

There’s also simply more wire on the Ultima Pro, with five crossbeams, instead of the typical three, on its shorter side. This heavier, denser grid of wire means smaller lengths of wire between joints, so the wire is harder to bend. Wire that doesn’t easily bend means the crate stays in its cube shape, and all of its latches and hooks line up as they should. Every corner and clasp on the Ultima Pro is rounded, so as to prevent injury from escape efforts. The wire has a powder-coated finish that makes it more attractive-looking than the slick, glossy wire on cheaper crates.

The lock on the Ultima Pro is not complicated, but it is reliable and difficult for dogs to manipulate. The looped-handle locking mechanism is common on wire crates, but the Ultima Pro’s thicker wire makes the closing mechanism on this crate feel satisfying and secure. And in the event of an emergency, it’s easier to get your dog out of a crate with a smooth-acting lock that’s in its proper place.

Our top pick for the best dog crate, collapsed down to fold flat.

Folding up the Ultima Pro to move it is much the same as with other wire crates. Yet the crate’s sturdy nature makes this an easier task than with crates prone to bending. The collapsed crate holds together with small C-shaped clamps, and you can transport it with thick, plastic detachable handles. You need to fold the Ultima Pro in one direction in order to clamp it shut for carrying, but once it’s in its “suitcase” shape, it stays together.

The plastic tray on the bottom of the Ultima Pro is thick but not heavy, and our trainer expert thought it seemed the most likely to last. The included tray latch keeps a rambunctious dog inside the crate from sliding the tray out. In our tests, the latch remained steady when we pushed against the tray from inside the crate. That vulnerability exposes floors and carpets to damage, and a dog could get injured if they try to escape through that gap. As for cleaning, the Ultima Pro’s tray cleaned up fine with enzyme spray and dish detergent.

The MidWest Ultima Pro Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate with the black plastic base pan pulled partially out.

An included divider allows you to choose the Ultima Pro model that’s appropriately sized for the eventual full size of your dog. As your puppy grows, you move the divider to give your dog enough space to turn around but enough enclosure to deter them from using the crate as a toilet. The divider is notably thinner than the crate, though, and only rounded hooks keep it in place. If your puppy is already exhibiting anxiety or escape tendencies, you may need to obtain a more secure crate that fits their current size.

One small detail on MidWest crates, the no-scratch rubber feet on the corners, could save you a lot of heartache someday if you have hard floors. First-time dog-crate owners might not know that the plastic tray sits on top of the wire on the bottom, so the crate itself rests on its wire grid. If your dog bumps the crate around, or if you move it often, these rubber feet are a small grace you’ll hardly notice, and that’s a good thing.

The Ultima Pro’s five sizes are available on both Amazon and Chewy, and on the authorized online retailer MidWestPetProducts.com . You can also find it at many brick-and-mortar pet stores. This crate comes with a one-year warranty and a DVD on crate training (which you can watch on YouTube ). MidWest is very clear and helpful on which crate size works for which dogs, offering a useful breed/size/weight chart ; many other crate makers offer only a single weight estimate.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

The flaws of this crate are directly related to its strengths. It is heavier than other crates we tested—the largest crate size is nearly 50 pounds. So if you’ve got a large dog, or you’re planning to move the crate around often, keep that in mind.

A small dog sitting in our runner up pick for best dog crate, the MidWest LifeStages Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate.

MidWest’s LifeStages Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate has the same design and company support as our top pick , the Ultima Pro. And the LifeStages crate is available in the same sizes (and one additional, slightly smaller size), from 22 inches long to 48 inches long. The only real differences, as stated by MidWest: This crate’s wire is slightly thinner, and the grid is a bit wider, with three crossbars instead of five, so the LifeStages crate weighs and costs less. Our expert trainer said that if you can find the LifeStages crate at a lower price than the Ultima Pro, he’d recommend it to most dog owners. We’ve seen the price of LifeStages crates fluctuate significantly on Amazon, sometimes costing more than the corresponding Ultima Pro size. If the Ultima Pro is out of stock in the size you need, or if the LifeStages crate is notably lower in price, it’s a solid choice.

A small dog sitting in our budget pick, the Frisco Heavy Duty Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate.

The Frisco Heavy Duty Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate packs most of the durability of our main pick but is usually about half the price. The Frisco wire dog crate features what our testers describe as a “super solid” locking mechanism that slides nicely and remains secure when locked. The tray is easy to remove and clean, and it didn’t slide out by mistake during testing. Like the LifeStages model, the Frisco features a wider grid with three crossbars instead of the five found on the Ultima Pro. Having just three bars doesn’t mean that this crate is substantially less durable: It’s got a strong, coated steel frame. But, as our testers noted, each size of the Frisco is proportionally slightly wider and taller than the MidWest models, making the Frisco heavier and more cumbersome to carry. This wire dog crate is sold in six sizes, from 22 inches long to 49 inches long.

A small dog sitting in our also great pick for the best dog crate, the Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel.

Not every dog thrives in a wire crate. Some dogs prefer a more-enclosed space, or they need more deterrence from attempting to escape. Some dog owners may prefer a much lighter crate, or one with added protection against accidents and wayward paws. And if you’re planning to do any air travel with your dog, an enclosed crate, or “sky kennel,” is required by the federal Animal Welfare Act and enforced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and airline carriers for any pet traveling as cargo (small pets can fly in-cabin in airline-friendly travel carriers ). Petmate’s Ultra Vari Kennel is a tough crate that will defeat most attempted escapes and contain accidents. It also meets most airline requirements, and it’s easy to put together, shut securely, and move around. This crate comes in six sizes, ranging from 21 inches long to 48 inches long, but only the two smallest sizes have carry handles.

Among the experienced dog handlers we spoke to for this guide, many recommended Vari Kennels by name. The metal-grated windows on these crates are tougher and more paw-resistant than the oblong holes you typically find punched into the sides of plastic crates, and their door design stands up to a lot of pressure. The interior has a groove on the floor to catch liquid, making most accidents easy to clean up. The Ultra Vari Kennel has tie-down holes, which allow owners to secure the crate in a plane’s cargo area or to loop with zip ties as needed. However, the experts we spoke to said that no crate is really safe in a car , and a restraint harness, like the Sleepypod Clickit Sport , is the safer choice.

The Ultra Vari Kennel isn’t foolproof, though. With enough force, a dog could pull inward on the door, bending it back far enough that the door’s two latching bits pop out of their plastic sockets (our expert trainer called this “taco-ing the door”). If you need the most secure crate for your dog, especially if you’re flying with it, the Petmate’s Sky Kennel model we tested has a door made of stronger metal, with a four-point lock that requires two steps to undo. However, we don’t recommend it because the crate’s shell isn’t as durable overall.

Our three wire-style top picks for the best dog crate, folded flat and set side by side.

Wire crates

As stated in How we picked , we limited our search to crates that had a number of reviews, enjoyed wide availability, and offered certain features we consider to be key, such as a divider, two doors, and a slide-out tray.

We like that the Diggs Revol Dog Crate has a wide plastic frame that’s easier to set up and collapse than most of the crates we tested (so your fingers are less likely to get pinched in the steel mesh wire corners). A former Kickstarter, the Diggs Revol launched in 2018 and at the time of writing is available only in size small (for pets up to 30 pounds). It also starts at about $245 at the time of writing, so it’s three times more expensive than our current pick, the MidWest Ultima Pro Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate .

The Frisco Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate is easy to assemble, but the locking mechanism was flimsy, and our testers said a “pushy” dog could escape.

The Pet Gear The Other Door Steel Crate has a plastic frame similar to that of the Diggs Revol. It’s sold in a narrow range of sizes (27, 36, and 42 inches) and is expensive.

MidWest’s iCrate Folding Metal Dog Crate has the same design, features, and warranty as its respective “better” and “best” siblings, the LifeStages and the Ultima Pro crates, but has thinner wire. It’s not a bad crate if you’re certain your dog is calm and crate-comfortable, and it’s available in eight sizes, covering more small breeds. But it’s less resistant to bending and escape. Most people should spend a little more and get the LifeStages , unless you need your crate to weigh 20 pounds instead of 30.

The AmazonBasics Folding Metal Dog Crate (discontinued) fared well in our examination and stress testing, as well as in ease of fold-down and raise-up, and carrying stability. It’s not a bad crate in any real way. But for the extra $15 or $25 (at the time of writing), we think the stronger wire and bend resistance of the LifeStages or Ultima Pro (respectively) are worth it. And the AmazonBasics crate lacks rubber feet.

Our expert trainer said a determined dog could partly raise the garage-style door of the Kong-branded Space Saving Double-Door Pet Crate (no longer available) before the safety latch could catch, which is a safety concern.

OxGord crates are popular on Amazon, sometimes holding the best-seller slot in certain subcategories. They are popular because they are inexpensive, and they are inexpensive because their wire is thin. We pulled open the door of a 36-inch double-door OxGord crate using less than 50 pounds of pressure in less than a minute. And we pushed out its bottom tray with just the pressure of our hands.

Plastic/airline kennels

The Kennel Direct Pet Crate (no longer available) costs as much as the Ultra Vari Kennel , but its door is less secure than our pick.

The lock on the Frisco Plastic Dog & Cat Kennel easily slides open with one hand, and our testers worried a determined dog could slip the lock.

Our testers said the Petmate Sky Dog Kennel features a sturdy design best suited for air travel, but it isn’t ideal for moving from room to room when at home. It wasn’t as durable as our airline pick, either.

Grreat Choice Dog Carriers (now unavailable) are a PetSmart exclusive. These plastic carriers—which are designed with a sturdy metal door, fastened together with bolts, and equipped with tie-down holes—will keep most dogs inside. We saw nothing particularly wrong with them, but they don’t have the reputation of the Ultra Vari Kennel models. And the color combination of accident-ready brown and medical-waiting-room beige doesn’t do much for whatever room you have to store your crate in.

Furniture crates

We limited our search for furniture crates to models priced $500 and less. Although we didn’t make security and strength a deciding factor for this category, we did avoid crates whose reviews contained a number of escape or dog-injury stories, and we favored crates made of solid woods rather than fiberboard.

Casual Home’s Pet Crate End Table is very cheap for this category, and you’ll probably find out why halfway through building it. If it’s solid wood, it’s very thin solid wood, especially the bars on the door and sides. One Amazon review relates how a 10-pound puppy chewed a way out . In our tests, the top of the crate developed a deep gouge during assembly. A couple of the pre-drilled holes seemed off-center, too, and after assembly the crate was uneven and prone to wobbling on two diagonal corners.

The Richell Wooden End-Table Crate comes in one color (dark brown) and two broad sizes (“up to 44 pounds” and 88 pounds). We could list many things to critique with this crate, but the dealbreaker is that it has no bottom. The manufacturer doesn’t make this clear, but the crate has only three sides, a top, and a door; you slide in a plastic tray for the bottom. The design leaves definite gaps between the tray and the walls, and the tray is flimsy enough that a dog could bend it upward.

This article was edited by Catherine Kast and Jennifer Hunter.

In particular, we read these guides from the Humane Society of the United States and the Animal Humane Society .

Dog-behavior problems like digging, chewing, and improper elimination are self-reinforcing because they feel good and soothing to the dog, but the owner is not around to correct them. Believe the authors of this guide: Out-of-crate behaviors can be very tough to modify.

What brand of dog crate is best?

In our testing, the best overall dog crate is the MidWest Ultima Pro Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate . It has a tight grid of thick wire that makes it resistant to escape and damage. Its bottom pan can’t be pushed out by paws, unlike the flimsier plastic pans included with cheaper models. And the crate folds up securely into a briefcase-style rectangle with solid clip-on handles that won’t come undone if you grab it from the wrong end. The MidWest LifeStages Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate is slightly less tough, but it’s still more resilient than most other dog crates we found. And it’s lighter than the Ultima version, so it’s easier to move around.

Are wire or plastic dog crates better?

The two materials excel at different uses. Metal crates are tougher and more paw-resistant than plastic crates, and their doors tend to stand up to more pressure. They’ll hold up well against a puppy who’ll fling their body around or a dog who may gnaw at the door. But a light plastic crate, like the Petmate’s Ultra Vari Kennel , is better suited to traveling and is also extremely hard for a pet to break out of. But it’s a bit more expensive, and it has enclosed sides, which not all dogs love.

What should I look for in a dog crate?

A crate should be durable and resistant to bending. Look for a size that’s large enough for your pet to move around in (the manufacturer will have a sizing guide you can reference). Since buying multiple crates as your dog grows can get expensive, opt for one with a removable divider so it’s adaptable from puppyhood to full-grown. Crates with two doors are also useful because they can be more conveniently placed in smaller or irregularly shaped rooms.

What is the best dog crate for a car?

An important note: We did not test for car safety. For one thing, you should never put your dog in a wire crate in the car. Every book we read and every expert we talked to reinforced this advice, sometimes without our asking. Even the strongest wire crates fared extremely poorly in the 2015 Center for Pet Safety/Subaru crash tests of travel crates . Those tests (and earlier 2013 tests) also confirmed that almost no crate under $150 will pass a crash test, and some will make a crash worse for a dog. A failing crate not only imperils your pet but also could release the pet as a projectile, potentially injuring you, as well. If you plan to travel with your dog in the car often, consider buying a Sleepypod Clickit Sport or Terrain restraint harness or upgrading to a Gunner Kennel , both of which are CPS Certified . The Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel , our recommendation for a hardshell crate for home and flying, is better than a wire crate for car trips—but it's still not as safe as either a harness or a car-specific crate.

Meet your guide

Kaitlyn Wells

Kaitlyn Wells is a senior staff writer who advocates for greater work flexibility by showing you how to work smarter remotely without losing yourself. Previously, she covered pets and style for Wirecutter. She's never met a pet she didn’t like, although she can’t say the same thing about productivity apps. Her first picture book, A Family Looks Like Love , follows a pup who learns that love, rather than how you look, is what makes a family.

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10 Best Travel Crates for Dogs – 2024 Reviews & Top Picks

By Nicole Cosgrove

Updated on Mar 1, 2024

Vet approved

Reviewed & Fact-Checked By

Dr. Lorna Whittemore

MRCVS (Veterinarian)

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

Traveling with your pet can be stressful, whether it’s a trip to the vet or a week-long camping trip. It’s important to find a way to keep your pet safe and contained when driving while also providing your dog a place to sleep at night. However, no two crates are the same, and it’s crucial to research and find the right option. Thankfully, we did the hard work for you and found ten awesome travel crates based on customer reviews. If you’re looking for a travel carrier, read on to see which of the 10 Travel Crates for Dogs are the best option for you:

(Dimensions are for medium-sized crates. Each model on our list has other size options.)

A Quick Glance at Our Favorites of 2024

The 10 best travel crates for dogs, 1. frisco indoor & outdoor collapsible soft-sided crate – best overall.

The Frisco Indoor & Outdoor Soft-Sided Dog Crate is a soft-style popup crate that stands out amongst the others as the best overall travel dog crate. The main part of the crate is a lightweight canvas material, which is water-resistant and easy to carry. It folds up easily and can fit just about anywhere, whether you’re packing it in a trunk or storing it in a closet.

Another great feature of the Frisco Soft-Sided Crate is the outer pocket, which can store your dog’s food, treats, and other dog essentials. There are three zip-up mesh doors that roll up with clips to keep the doors open, giving your dog more ventilation and access points. The best part of the Frisco Soft-Sided crate is its inclusivity, available in multiple sizes to accommodate small and large dogs.

While we really like the quality and design of this crate, there’s no padding on the bottom, so you’ll need to bring a crate pad if you’re traveling. It’s also not the best choice if you have a particularly destructive dog, so extreme chewers and diggers may ruin the crate within a few uses.

Lightweight canvas material
Folds easily for traveling
Outer pocket for extra storage
3 separate roll-up doors with clips
Available in multiple sizes
No padding for the bottom
Not durable enough for some dogs

2. SP Travel Kennel Dog Carrier – Best Value

The SP Travel Kennel Dog Carrier is a traditional hard-sided travel carrier for those on a budget and looking for the best carrier for the money. The plastic and metal are of great quality for the price, so you won’t have to worry about the integrity of the crate. The hard plastic shell is easy to clean and comes with a handle on top, making it easy to carry your dog while on the go. The SP Travel Carrier features a metal bar door with a latch-type lock, securing your dog as you’re traveling. It’s also IATA-Airline approved, so the carrier should pass most airline specifications for flying.

While we love the SP Travel Kennel Dog Carrier, it’s only available in three sizes that may not work for your dog. The sizes also run on the smaller side, which can be frustrating if you have a larger dog. However, for owners of medium sized dogs looking for a good quality hard-shell carrier without the premium price tag, the SP Travel Dog Carrier is a great option.

Great quality for the price
Hard plastic shell with handle
Metal door with latch
IATA-Airline approved carrier
Only available in three sizes
Runs on the smaller side

3. MidWest Canine Camper Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate – Premium Choice

The MidWest Canine Camper Single Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate is a premium canvas-type soft crate for camping and traveling. It’s a lightweight design with a metal frame, which is easy to assemble and disassemble after use. The soft nylon canvas is water-resistant, so it’s a great choice for indoor and outdoor use. The MidWest Soft-Sided Crate collapses and folds down easily, making it easy to carry and store away after traveling. It also comes with a soft faux sheepskin pad for the bottom, giving your dog that extra comfort and padding while you’re on the go. The MidWest Soft-Sided crate is a premium-grade travel crate, so it tends to be more on the expensive side. It’s also not suitable for destructive dogs, especially dogs that like to claw, scratch, and chew at their enclosures. Otherwise, the MidWest Soft-Sided Crate is our premium choice pick and can be a great addition to your travel essentials.

Lightweight with a metal frame
Water-resistant nylon canvas
Folds down for easy carrying
Includes a faux sheepskin pad
On the expensive size
Not suitable for destructive dogs

4. Frisco Plastic Dog & Cat Kennel – Best for Puppies

The Frisco Plastic Dog & Cat Kennel is a hard-sided travel pet carrier that is a great option for puppies and adult dogs. The main component of the crate uses damage-resistant hard plastic, so it can withstand scratching and clawing from within. The Frisco Plastic Kennel uses a metal door with latch-type locks, which is easy to open yet secure enough to keep your pet inside. It comes in a few different sizes for more options, so it’s not as limiting as other travel carriers. The best part is that it’s easy to clean and disinfect, which is incredibly important with puppies and dogs that aren’t yet housebroken.

However, the Frisco Plastic Kennel is on the expensive side, so it’s a bit of an investment to purchase one. The kennels also run on the smaller side, so they won’t work for dogs of all sizes. Aside from those potential issues, the Frisco is a great crate and a great option for puppies and small dogs.

Damage-resistant hard plastic
Multiple size options
Easy to clean and disinfect
On the expensive side

5. Precision Pet Products Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate

The Precision Pet Products 4-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate is a collapsible popup crate for lightweight and convenient traveling. The outer material is a water-resistant canvas with mesh, so it provides protection for your dog and ventilation to prevent overheating. There are four separate doors with zippers on this model, which roll up and clip in place when not in use. It folds down easily for transportation, so it won’t take up a lot of space in your car or bags. It also has a big storage pocket on the outside, where you can put your dog’s food and treats while camping.

While there are some great features on the Precision Pet Collapsible crate, it’s not durable enough for dogs that like to chew and dig. The zippers on this model are a bit tough and may jam easily, so it does have a bit of a learning curve. Otherwise, this is a great collapsible soft-sided crate that could be a good option for you and your dog.

Water-resistant canvas with mesh
Four separate doors with zippers
Folds easily for easy transportation
Storage pocket on the outside
Not suitable for dogs that dig and chew
Zippers may jam easily

6. Petmate Compass Dog Kennel

The Petmate Compass Dog Kennel is a hard-shell dog travel carrier for dogs that need a hard-sided crate. This model features a durable hard plastic outer shell, which is easy to clean and care for in case of accidents. One great feature is the wide-mouth entrance, making it easy for your dog to go in and out with ease. It also features a double-lock setup that allows the door to open left or right in case space is limited, and you can’t open it in one direction. However, the Petmate Compass Dog Kennel has no handle or grips for carrying, so you’ll have to find a way to carry your pet safely. It’s on the expensive side compared to other carriers, especially for bigger sizes. It also may not fit extra-large or giant-sized dogs, which may make this option not suitable for you. Otherwise, this is a good hard carrier and may be a good option for you and your dog.

Easy to clean hard plastic
Wide-mouth entrance
Double-lock opens left or right
No handle or grips for carrying
Expensive, especially for bigger sizes
May not fit XL or Giant dogs

7. MidWest iCrate Fold and Carry Wire Dog Crate

The MidWest iCrate Fold and Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate is a great alternative to soft and hard plastic carriers. The crate features a coated metal structure with a durable plastic leak proof tray. This is the heaviest of the crates and will likely need two people to maneuver it, but the set up and take down are relatively quick and simple. This crate is very robust and a good option for dogs who dig and chew. It has great ventilation and all round visibility of your pet. Wire crates are especially useful for setting up a safe space for puppies and adult dogs, those that need restricting after surgery and for travel to pet friendly accommodation. This model comes with two possible access points, the front and side panels, a handle for carrying, 4 wheels to protect wooden floors and a divider panel. The MidWest iCrate comes in 6 sizes from xs to XL giving plenty of options. A replacement liner can be purchased if needed. On the down side if your pet prefers to be more private you would need to buy a separate cover and you may want to provide some comfy bedding too. Some reviewers noted quality control issues such as latches not aligned properly.

Durable wire construction
Roller feet
Included divider
Great for post op recovery, crate training and travel
More expensive than some other types
Some reviewers reported latches not aligned

8. PetAmi Premium Airline Approved Soft-Sided Travel Carrier

The PetAmi Premium Airline Approved Soft-Sided Dog and Cat Travel Carrier is a carry-on style bag for flying and other types of travel. It features a duffel-bag style for easy carrying, as well as easy placement under your airplane seat. This duffel-bag carrier by PetAmi is a lightweight bag that is budget-friendly, as well as an alternative to other types of carriers. It also complies with most airline rules and regulations, so you can travel with your dog just about anywhere.

While the PetAmi is a great alternative to other carriers, it’s only suitable for toy and small-sized dogs. Another problem is with the plastic clips on the carry strap, which are not the best quality and may not be strong enough for heavier small breeds. It’s also not a durable material when it comes to extreme chewing and scratching, so we recommend trying other carriers for energetic or destructive dogs.

Duffel-style pet carrier
Budget-friendly alternative
Complies with most airlines
For toy and small dogs only
Average-quality strap clips
Not durable for dogs that dig/scratch

9. MidWest Spree Hard-Sided Dog & Cat Kennel

The MidWest Spree Hard-Sided Dog & Cat Kennel is a hard-sided type of dog carrier for traveling and on-the-go transportation. It has a hard-plastic shell, which is easy to clean and lightweight enough to carry. It’s a budget-friendly hard-sided carrier, so it could possibly save you money. However, you get what you pay for with the MidWest Spree Kennel, which has hard plastic that feels and looks cheap. The locks also feature the same average-quality plastic, so they may end up breaking or snapping after a while.

Another issue with this carrier is that it’s only suitable for small dogs, so it’s not an option for dogs bigger than 18 pounds. Lastly, the carrying handle is fixed into the crate, so it can be really uncomfortable to carry heavier dogs. Although we recommend trying other models first, the MidWest Spree could be an option if you have a toy-sized dog.

Budget-friendly hard carrier
Lightweight hard-shell plastic
Lower quality plastic
Plastic locks may break easily
Only suitable for small dogs
Carry-handle is fixed

10. Petmate Two Door Top Load Plastic Carrier – Best for Small Dogs

The Petmate Two Door Top Load Plastic Dog Carrier is a hard-shell type of travel carrier . The outer shell is hard plastic, which is easy to clean and maintain if your dog has an accident. Coated steel wire doors offer good security for escape artists. It also comes with an ergonomic top handle, making it easy and comfortable to transport your dog to and from places. With the option of loading pets from the top or front door this can make it easier to get reluctant pets in. This is one of the most economical carriers on our list. This model is approved for use on most airlines making it useful for trips further away. It does require some assembly and some reviewers struggled with this.

Choice of colours
Use on airlines
Only for toy and small dogs

When it comes to acquiring travel essentials for your dog, it’s important to find a travel carrier that fits your needs. It’s important to buy the right type of crate, whether it’s a collapsible soft-sided crate, hard plastic or wire crate. For the best overall travel crate, Frisco Indoor & Outdoor 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog & Small Pet Crate exceeds expectations with high-quality material and features. For best value, the SP Travel Kennel Dog Carrier is our pick because it’s both affordable and durable. We hope our guide will help you find the best crate for you and your dog, so traveling will be as stress-free as possible.

See Also: Best Dog Crates for RVs: Reviews & Top Picks

Featured Image Credit: JakubD, Shutterstock

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11 best travel carriers for dogs

The size, material and safety certifications can all determine which travel carrier is right for your dog.

We all want our dogs by our side as much as possible, and that might include them tagging along on vacations and holiday trips. But traveling with a pet usually involves a range of safety considerations, including gathering the right health paperwork , keeping treats and water on hand and making sure they’re as comfortable as possible on a flight, train or car ride. Since most airlines and other transportation methods will require taking your dog in some type of enclosure, the pet carrier you choose is very important to keep your dog safe and comfortable.

We spoke to veterinarians, vet technicians and travel safety experts about what to look for in a travel carrier for your dog and how to shop for one that’s both comfortable and safe. We also listed expert-recommended carriers and Select staff favorites.

SKIP AHEAD Best dog travel carriers | How to shop for a dog travel carrier | What size carrier is allowed on a plane? | What is the pet weight limit for air travel? | What's the difference between a carrier and crate? | Is it safe to travel with a pet in the cargo area? | How to help your dog feel calm in a travel carrier

Our top picks

Best overall dog carrier: Away The Pet Carrier
Best airline-approved carrier: Sherpa Pet Carrier
Best tote carrier: Wild One Everyday Carrier
Best travel crate: Gunner Kennel G1

select How to drive safely with a dog

How we picked the best dog travel carriers.

When shopping for the best travel carrier for your dog, our experts recommend considering the following factors:

Size: Pick a carrier that’s big enough for your pet to comfortably stand, sit, lie down and turn around in. The carrier should be as long as the tip of the dog’s nose to the base of the tail, according to veterinarian Dr. Kristen L. Nelson . Carriers will usually come in a variety of sizes to fit different breed types (though keep in mind that airline-approved carriers have very specific dimension requirements that will usually only fit small dogs under 20 pounds, according to our experts).
Materials and build: Carriers are usually soft-sided and made of polyester or nylon, which are easy to clean and water- and tear-resistant, according to our experts. Choose a carrier with mesh sides to provide a good amount of ventilation. Most importantly, you should opt for a carrier that can stand up on its own and not collapse around your pet or deform easily, says Dr. Christina Carlo , a veterinarian and medical director at VCA Avondale Veterinary Hospital. Hard plastic carriers are usually designed for airplane cargo holds, but they’re a safe and durable option for car rides, too, according to Carlo.
Airline requirements: Commercial airlines will usually have certain dimension requirements for carriers that go in the plane’s cabin (with the passenger) and crates that travel in the cargo area of the plane. Most airlines like United Airlines , Jetblue and American Airlines have varying dimension requirements, so be sure to visit their site before traveling.
Crash testing: Look for carriers and crates that have undergone independent crash testing by the Center for Pet Safety , which gives your pet the best possible chance of survival if a crash occurs, says Dr. Wendy Hauser , a veterinarian and special advisor to ASPCA Pet Health Insurance.

Best dog travel carriers to shop right now

Below, we gathered the best travel carriers for your dog based on experts’ guidance and Select staff experience. We also included top-rated options with a 4-star average rating or higher. We list key factors to consider, including the carrier’s material, weight capacity and dimensions.

Best overall travel carrier: Away

Away the pet carrier.

This Away travel carrier is designed for both car and airline travel and won a Select Best for Your Pet award for best overall travel carrier. It has zip openings on the top and front with fully see-through mesh to help your pet see out of the carrier (if you prefer to avoid this, there’s a piece of fabric that rolls down to cover their view).

I use this carrier to fly with my 16-pound havachon, Bella, because it’s sturdy and makes her feel safe and supported thanks to its durable nylon and leather construction. The mesh gives her enough visibility to know what’s going on outside and helps me keep tabs on her, too. It also comes with machine-washable bedding on the inside that’s soft to the touch, and multiple pockets that keep my belongings and pet essentials accessible during the whole flight. If you’re traveling by car, the carrier has latches on one side that securely fasten to a car’s seat belt system. The Away carrier comes in black and blue colors and you can also personalize it with your initials for an additional $35.

Pet weight: Up to 18 lbs | Dimensions (LxWxH): 18.7 x 10.8 x 10.75 in. | Material: Water-resistant nylon

Away Pet Carrier

Best airline-approved carrier: sherpa, sherpa pet carrier.

Another Best for Your Pet award winner, this Sherpa carrier is a favorite of CPS founder Lindsey Wolko, who has used it for years to travel with her own pets. She specifically recommends it for traveling on the plane because it fits under the passenger seat (it meets the dimensions for most airlines, but always check your specific airline’s requirements before traveling) and has a large zip pocket to store pet supplies like water bowls, leashes and treats. However, it’s not the best pick for car travel because you can’t strap it in using your vehicle’s seat belt system — you’re better off placing it on the floor behind the driver’s seat for safety and to avoid the stitching or zippers to fail, says Wolko.

NBC Select manager of editorial operations Shari Uyehara uses this carrier to take her 20-pound cavalier King Charles spaniel, Loki, on the plane and says it’s a great affordable option for travel. Loki can comfortably shift positions during the flight, and the carrier itself is structured enough to maintain its shape while under the seat, says Uyehara. The sides are made of see-through mesh that allows your pet to easily see out of it. Available in medium and large sizes, the carrier also has shorter top handles and a longer shoulder strap to fit your carrying preferences.

Pet weight: Up to 16 lbs | Dimensions: 17 x 11 x 10.5 in. (medium size) | Material: Polyester and mesh

Best hard-sided carrier for cargo: Gunner

Gunner kennel g1.

This crate earned a 5-star safety rating from the CPS in both the crate and carrier class (the only product to earn a dual certification), and it’s a favorite among our experts. The crate has a thick exterior layer for impact protection, which keeps your pet safe if there’s a crash or a fall, according to the brand. It also has a reversible door design that lets you open the crate from either side. The door also has an aluminum frame that won’t pop open in the middle of a flight, according to the brand. It comes in four sizes — small, medium, intermediate and large — and Gunner offers a size guide that gives recommendations based on your dog’s weight and length.

Pet weight: Up to 30 lbs for small, up to 45 lbs for medium, up to 75 lbs for intermediate and up to 110 lbs for large size | Dimensions: 24.5 x 18.625 x 19 in. (small), 29.5 x 20.5 x 23.5 in. (medium), 34 x 23 x 28.5 in. (intermediate), 40.25 x 28 x 33.25 in. (large) | Material: Reinforced aluminum frame

Gunner G1 Kennel

Best soft-sided carrier: elitefield, elitefield soft-sided dog & cat carrier bag.

This pet carrier weighs just over 2 pounds and is the most lightweight soft-sided option on this list. The carrier is recommended by Dr. Amber Karwacki , a veterinarian and partner doctor at Heart + Paw in Callowhill, Pennsylvania, because it has mesh panels on both sides and the front to let air in and prevent your pet from getting too hot, according to the brand. It also comes with removable and machine-washable bedding and has a back sleeve that attaches to your suitcase, as well as loops that latch onto your car’s seat belt system. The polyester and synthetic build is water-resistant and available in six colors to fit your personal style.

Pet weight: Up to 18 lbs | Dimensions: 19 x 10 x 13 in. | Material: Polyester

EliteField Soft-Sided Dog & Cat Carrier Bag

Best tote carrier: wild one, wild one everyday carrier.

If you’re looking for a tote to carry your dog around town or on the train, consider this Wild One carrier. This Select staff-favorite option has a small dip in its design, which allows your dog to peek their head out while you carry them around. Uyehara particularly loves how stable the tote is. “I love that Loki’s weight remains balanced in the carrier, but he still has room to move around,” she says. It also includes a safety clip that attaches to your dog’s harness, which ensures your dog is secure and won’t jump out at a bad time, according to Karwacki (but be sure to never connect this clip to their collar since it poses a choking hazard). It also comes with carrying straps of two different lengths — one length to carry it like a shoulder bag, and shorter straps to carry it by hand. There is a machine washable mat on the inside and three exterior pockets to hold all your pet’s essentials like bags, treats and toys.

Pet weight: Up to 20 lbs | Dimensions: 21.5 x 7.5 x 14.25 in. | Material: Recycled polyester outer, cotton interior

Best collapsible carrier: Roverlund

Roverlund out-of-office pet carrier.

Another Select Best for Your Pet award winner, the small version of this Roverlund carrier is an airline-approved option for both dogs and cats because it’s less than 18 inches long. The straps are all ropes, which our staff found to be more comfortable and supportive than other carrier straps made from typical polyester or fabric. The interior lining is machine-washable and you can also shop the larger version of this carrier for dogs up to 25 pounds.

Pet weight: Up to 20 lbs | Dimensions: 17 x 11 x 10.5 in. (small size) | Material: Water-resistant polyester, mountain climbing rope

Roverlund Pet Carrier

Best backpack carrier: apollo walker, apollo walker pet carrier backpack.

This highly rated backpack carrier, which earned a 4.6-star average rating from over 4,500 reviews on Amazon, has shoulder straps and two separate straps that buckle around your sternum and waist to help evenly distribute the weight of your pet, according to the brand. It has mesh panels on all sides to let your pet see out and comes with removable fleece bedding to keep them comfortable while creating a sturdy base that can hold their weight, according to Apollo. It also comes with a clip that attaches to your pet’s harness to prevent them from escaping or falling out.

Pet weight: N/A | Dimensions: 12.6 x 11.4 x 16.8 in. | Material: Polyester

Best expandable carrier: Midwest

Midwest duffy dog & cat carrier.

This Midwest Duffy carrier is recommended by Karwacki because it’s expandable — the mesh sides open up to give your pet more room to move around and stretch their legs. It has two zippered side openings, as well as one on top to make it easier to take your dog in and out of the carrier, according to the brand. It also folds completely flat, so you can store it away when it’s not in use. It comes in three colors and sizes small, medium and large.

Pet weight: Up to 15 lbs | Dimensions: 16.3 x 10.1 x 9.3 in. (small), 18.3 x 11.3 x 11.1 in. (medium) and 19.3 x 12.2 x 12.2 in. (large) | Material: Polyester

MidWest Duffy Dog & Cat Carrier

Best carrier for medium-sized dogs: Arlo Skye

Arlo skye the pet carrier.

This Arlo Skye pet carrier has mesh panels on all sides, making it a well-ventilated option for your pup. It comes with memory foam bedding on the inside that’s both removable and machine-washable, as well as a foldable design to help you pack it easily in your suitcase or travel bag, according to the brand. It has dual openings on both ends and a back pocket sleeve to place it over your carry-on . The carrier is also highly rated with a 4.9-star average rating from over 60 reviews at Arlo Skye.

Pet weight: Up to 25 lbs | Dimensions: 17.5 x 11 x 10 in. | Material: Poly-mesh and nylon

Best carrier for small dogs: Sleepypod

Sleepypod mobile pet bed.

The Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed is an expert-recommended and CPS-certified option that has breathable mesh and a machine-washable interior — it’s built for plane travel for dogs under 15 pounds. Nelson recommends the Sleepypod because it’s easy to carry and gives the pet privacy while traveling since it’s fully enclosed with a mesh panel at the top.

Like several other carriers on this list, the Sleepypod doesn’t just limit itself to airline travel: It straps into a vehicle’s seat belt system, so you can comfortably take road trips with your pet. You can also separate the bottom of the carrier to transform it into a bed for your pet, which makes training easier since they can form a positive association with it, says Lindsey Wolko, founder of the Center for Pet Safety. The brand’s Sleepypod Atom is another CPS-certified carrier that’s crash-tested for even smaller dogs up to 12 pounds, the lowest weight requirement on this list.

Pet weight: Up to 15 lbs | Dimensions: 17 in. (D) x 6.5 in. | Material: Polyester

Best sling carrier: Tomkas

Tomkas dog sling carrier.

Designed for small dogs up to 10 pounds, this sling carrier crosses over your body so you can take your dog around town hands-free. The base has a built-in drawstring that adjusts the size of the opening to fit different sized dogs, and the crossbody strap length is also adjustable to fit your comfort level. The carrier includes a safety buckle inside that connects to your dog’s harness to prevent them from falling out, according to the brand. I purchased this carrier for my havachon, Bella, when she was a puppy weighing under 10 pounds, and I was able to comfortably carry her around when she got tired of walking. It held her weight well without tearing or damaging the fabric, and the crossbody strap caused less strain on my back.

Pet weight: Up to 10 lbs | Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 3 in. | Material: Polyester

TOMKAS Dog Sling Carrier

select 19 best pet products for dogs and cats, according to Select staff pet owners

How to shop for a dog travel carrier.

Carriers and crates are the most secure type of enclosure when traveling with your dog because they prevent them from escaping and minimize distraction while you’re traveling (especially while driving), according to Wolko. But the right carrier for your dog will depend on what type of trip you’re taking, your method of transportation and their temperament.. When shopping for the right carrier for your dog, our experts recommend considering the size and fit of the enclosure, whether it’s crash-tested, if it meets airline requirements and more.

Your dog or cat should be able to easily stand up, turn around and lay comfortably in their carrier. That means the length of your carrier from front to back should measure about the same, or one or two inches more than the tip of your dog’s nose to the base of their tail, according to Nelson. You should add a few more inches for brachycephalic breeds like pugs, pekingese and French bulldogs, though experts don’t recommend taking these breeds on flights because their shorter noses increase the risk of overheating and oxygen deprivation, says Nelson (some airlines even ban this breed from flying in the cargo hold , according to the American Veterinary Medical Association). To determine the right height of your carrier, make sure it measures the same or larger than the height of your pet from the floor to the top of their shoulders, says Carlo.

Place a mat or bed in the carrier to make the space more comfortable for your pet, says Carlo (though you should avoid this if your dog usually destroys their bedding because they might eat the pieces and cause intestinal obstruction). Putting soft blankets or their favorite toy in the carrier can also help promote familiarity and make them feel safe, according to our experts.

Whether your dog can see out of their carrier is a matter of personal preference, though our experts recommend mesh so the outside is visible, which helps avoid your dog feeling threatened or confused while they’re traveling, says Wolko.

Materials and structure

Most carriers are soft-sided and made from materials like polyester, mesh and nylon fabric. Consider whether the carrier has structure, meaning it can stand up on its own and won’t automatically collapse around your pet, according to Carlo. You should also look for carriers that have pockets, so you have room for your pet supplies.

You can take a hard-sided, non-collapsible crate or kennel on an airplane, but they must be able to fit under the passenger’s seat, according to Hauser (this might be harder to do compared to soft-sided carriers since they don’t mold to a different size). Plastic hard-sided crates are usually good for transporting your pet in an airplane cargo hold and the cargo area of a car — they’re considered to be the safest option since they won’t lose their shape and provide impact protection in case of a crash, turbulence or hard fall, according to our experts. However, you should avoid metal wire crates because pets might be able to stick their feet or limbs out, which can be a safety hazard while traveling, says Karwacki.

Safety considerations

For car travel, look for carriers and crates that have undergone crash testing by the Center for Pet Safety, a registered nonprofit and advocacy organization that crash tests car restraints and containment devices. This provides an extra layer of safety when traveling with your pet, our experts say.

“Most carriers on the market only prevent distractions [for the driver], which is important, but in a crash, they may not perform as you would expect them to,” says Wolko. The CPS certification tests carriers as an unaffiliated third party. This is important when considering that many brands subjectively “pass” their carriers if they test them in their own labs, which can ultimately give pet owners a false sense of security, according to Wolko.

Though the CPS does not specifically test carriers and crates for airline travel, you can use most carriers that meet the airline’s size requirements and have ample ventilation, according to Wolko.

A CPS-certified crate usually has backup door latches and locking mechanisms to prevent your pet from escaping, which is especially useful if they travel in the aircraft’s cargo hold. “So, if something tumbles, the kennel is so robust that the pet is not getting out,” says Wolko. Most airlines have certain regulations for what carriers to use when transporting an animal in the cargo area of a plane. The International Air Transport Association, a globally recognized trade association for the world’s airlines, details specific requirements for crates to transport animals in the cargo hold, including construction and adequate ventilation (more on that below).

What size pet carrier is allowed on a plane?

For air travel, always check with your airline to see what type and size of carrier it allows. The approved dimensions of your carrier vary from airline to airline but, in most cases, carriers can’t exceed 11 inches in height, which allows it to fit under the seat in front of the passenger, according to Hauser. Also, the carrier will likely count as your carry-on luggage on most airlines, and in-cabin travel will usually require you to make a reservation or reserve a seat specifically for your dog.

What is the pet weight limit for air travel?

Certain airlines might also have specific pet size and weight requirements for in-cabin travel. Typically, pets must weigh 20 pounds or less, though this varies by airline, and most larger dogs can’t ride in-cabin unless they’re a trained service animal, according to Wolko. If your pet exceeds that limit, they’ll need to travel in the cargo area of the plane.

Most airlines will allow trained service dogs on board at no cost. However, several airlines like Delta Air Lines, Southwest, American Airlines and Alaska Air are no longer accepting emotional support animals on board.

What is the difference between a carrier and a crate?

Carriers and crates for dogs are usually used interchangeably, but there are a few key differences. The CPS defines crates as enclosures that are secured in the cargo area of a plane or tethered securely to the floor of a vehicle like a van or SUV. They’re usually constructed of thick molded plastic or metal and designed for larger dogs, according to our experts.

Carriers, on the other hand, are usually designed for smaller dogs and made of a soft-sided fabric (though some are constructed of a harder plastic or nylon to prevent them from collapsing on your pet). When traveling in a car, the carrier usually goes in the backseat and is strapped in using the seatbelt system of your vehicle.

Is it safe to travel with a pet in the cargo area?

Yes, it is generally safe and common to travel with your dog in the cargo hold (also known as the lower deck) of an airplane, which also holds baggage. However, experts recommend only flying your pet in the cargo hold when it’s absolutely necessary because it can be a very stressful experience for them.

“There’s a lot of weird noises, not much light down there — it’d be scary for anyone to go in the [cargo hold], ” says Karwacki. And, most handling risks come before they even board the plane: Dogs usually endure the most force when being transported across the rough, uneven tarmac to get to the plane, says Wolko.

The IATA lists specific requirements for crates, including construction and ventilation, to keep your pet safe when flying in the cargo hold. For example, the trade association specifies that crates must be sturdy and inescapable and adequately ventilated on three sides, with the majority of the ventilation being provided on the upper part of the container.

Most aircraft cargo holds are temperature-controlled and pressurized, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture . Animals can’t be exposed to temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit or below 45 degrees Fahrenheit for more than 4 hours, per the USDA’s website. Most airlines won’t transport dogs altogether if ground temperatures reach those extremes.

How to help your dog feel calm in a travel carrier

Your pet’s comfort level in their carrier can determine how smooth your travels are. Below, we list a few expert tips about how to get your dog adjusted to their carrier and how to keep them comfortable during long trips.

Know your dog’s safety and security preferences. Some dogs prefer more open-sided kennels with better airflow and visibility, while others feel safer with the cave-like security of a molded plastic carrier with smaller windows, says Hauser.
Make the carrier or crate their “happy spot.” Allowing your pet to build a positive association with their carrier helps them feel calm and safe while traveling, according to our experts. In your home and before traveling, leave the door open so that your pup can explore the enclosure on their own terms, which demystifies it, says Hauser. After some time, it isn’t uncommon to find pets that preferentially sleep in their enclosures,” she says. Once they get acclimated to the crate or carrier at home, you can then graduate to car trips and, later on, plane rides. Start off with brief trips that increase in duration over time.
Make the carrier feel familiar. As we mentioned, putting their favorite bed, blankets or toys in the carrier can help make them feel more comfortable.
Avoid any safety risks while on the plane. For example, if you’re traveling with your pet in-cabin, never put the carrier in the overhead compartment of the plane with your pet inside because it poses a suffocation risk, says Wolko. Also, feed your pet before you get on the plane — if they choke or get something lodged in their throat while you’re in the air, they likely won’t get help in time, according to Wolko.

Meet our experts

At Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

Dr. Kristen L. Nelson is a veterinarian and author of “Coated With Fur: A Vet’s Life.”
Dr. Christina Carlo is a veterinarian and medical director at VCA Avondale Veterinary Hospital.
Dr. Wendy Hauser is a veterinarian and special advisor to ASPCA Pet Health Insurance.
Lindsey Wolko is the founder of the Center for Pet Safety , a registered nonprofit and advocacy organization that crash-tests car restraints and containment devices for pets.
Dr. Amber Karwacki is a veterinarian and partner doctor at Heart + Paw in Callowhill, Pennsylvania.

Why trust Select?

Mili Godio is an editor at Select who covers a variety of pet topics, including dog food , beds , treats and toys . For this article, Godio spoke to five veterinarians and pet safety experts about the best carriers for your dog and how to safely travel with them. She also compiled their recommendations for the best travel carriers to consider and researched dozens of options on the market based on expert guidance.

Catch up on Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

Mili Godio is an updates editor for Select on NBC News.

The Best Dog Crates for Car Travel 2024

Categories Dog Gear , Gear Guide , Travel with a Dog

Like many unknowing dog owners, I used to allow my dogs to ride in the back seat or hitch of the car without worrying about their safety. They lay down and were calm, so I never saw a need to use a dog crate for car travel.

When I got Sitka, however, there was no sitting calmly in the car while I drove.

Sitka is anxious in the car, and after the first ride involved him lunging at trucks and motorcycles, pacing back and forth, and whining the entire time, I knew I needed a solution to keep us safe and sane.

Initially, I secured him using a harness system from Kurgo that is crash-tested and kept him from pacing, but he’d spin and tangle himself in the straps resulting in needing to pull over to untangle his legs periodically.

From there, I decided to look into a kennel and began intense research to find the best dog crates for car travel. I asked friends, polled my Instagram audience, read reviews, and emailed brands to create a list of potential candidates.

In this post, I feature the dog crates that I considered purchasing, which means they met the criteria I will explain below. I explain why I chose the one that I did and provide suggestions for why other brands might work best for your car situation and dog.

My pick for best dog crate for the car

Don’t feel like reading all the research and just want to know my top pick? My dogs ride in GUNNER Kennels. They’re one of the more expensive dog crates on the market, but it is worth every penny because I fully believe they will survive in an accident.

Click here to buy a GUNNER Kennel now >>

Why Should a Dog be in a Crate in the Car?

Even if your dog was like my first dogs and settled calmly in the car, it’s a good idea to secure them in a dog kennel in the event of a car accident.

Here are the three main reasons:

Think about it, we buckle up every time we get into the car, but many dog owners don’t often consider securing their dog. In a crash, unsecured dogs will become projectiles and can result in serious injuries and death.

If you are injured in a car accident, your dog will be in a safe and secure spot where they cannot run away or bite anyone.

When I drove with Sitka the first time, I was certain we would get into an accident. His movement and whining was so distracting that I couldn’t concentrate on driving.

In 2019, Volvo conducted a safety study that determined that unrestrained dogs led to significantly more unsafe driving behaviors, distracted driving, and increased stress for both the human and the dog.

Best dog travel crate for safety

GUNNER Kennel

√ Safest dog travel crate on the market

√ Dual locking system for additional safety

Best dog travel crate for larger vehicles

√ military-strength grade materials

√ Locking system for additional safety

Best dog travel crate budget pick

√ very affordable price

√ Available in a variety of sizes to accommodate most vehicles

In the Event of a Car Accident

In the unfortunate case that you are in a car accident, there are a few preparation steps to take to ensure the utmost safety for your pet.

This is especially important if you are injured and unable to tend to your dog after a crash.

Secure a laminated form on top of or inside of the kennel with the following information:

Your first and last name
Phone number
Emergency contact for your dog who is authorized to make choices on your behalf
Veterinarian
Any allergies your dog may have
Other pertinent information about your dog

Keep a spare leash and a muzzle in the car and include instructions about how to remove your dog from the kennel and where to take them until you are able to pick them up (i.e. with a friend or e nearest veterinarian).

When working with emergency personnel, if you are able to, communicate to them that you will be the one to remove your dog from the kennel.

I once saw a video posted on Instagram where a dog jumped out and started to run away when the firefighters removed him from his crate. Thankfully, he had his e-collar on and was able to be recalled back.

In stressful situations, dogs can bite or run away. Do as much as possible to prevent that from happening by communicating as best you can with emergency crews and in writing.

What to Look for In a Dog Crate for Car Travel

When deciding on the right dog crate for your needs, there are several factors to take into consideration that will ensure the best fit for your dog and car, and still meet safety requirements.

Size and Fit

When you measure your dog for the crate, you want a snug fit. Too much excess space means that they can become injured due to increased impact from a crash.

You also don’t want it too snug because then your dog won’t be able to move around to get comfortable.

Since most of the kennels in this article are not available to purchase in stores, testing fit is not an option. The best plan is to provide your dog and car’s measurements and dog’s weight to the manufacturer and work with them to determine best fit.

To best protect your dog in the car, look for a dog crate that is made from a single piece of molded polyethylene. A single piece means that there are no weak points in the kennel that can fail in an impact.

Materials to avoid include:

Folding crates
Traditional plastic “clamshell” dog crates.

Crash-testing

The Center for Pet Safety (CPS) conducted a series of crash tests for dog crates in partnership with Subaru of America in 2015. CPS evaluated crates that cost between $150 and $1000 and put them to a series of tests, including:

The use of dummy dogs weighing 75 lbs
Conducted two different crash test with rear seat folded in one and up in the second
Simulated crashes at speeds of 30 mph

You can see the test results from the report here .

There are many dog crates out there that claim to be crash-tested, but because there is not the same requirement for testing the safety of dog crates as there is for cars or child seats, purchasers need to do their homework.

Since the most recent CPS test was performed in 2015, there are likely suitable kennels that didn’t make the list or new additions to the market that weren’t tested.

Email the manufacturer to ask about their crash testing protocols and read reviews from people whose dogs were in car crashes to validate the claims.

Strap Loops

Some dog crates come with strap loops that allow you to secure the kennel into your car. This is especially important for those whose dogs will ride in open bed trucks.

Different manufacturers may recommend different types of straps to tie down the kennel. Check in with them before purchasing if you plan to secure the kennel in your car.

Ventilation

It can get hot and stuffy inside of a plastic box, so when you’re looking for a crate for your dog for the car, make sure that it has good ventilation.

This means there are plenty of air holes on the sides that provide cross breezes.

Sizing Your Dog Crate for the Car

Depending on the kind of car you have and your dog’s size, different crates will fit differently. Further, placement depends on where your car’s crumple zones are located.

For example, the front and rear of many cars feature a crumple zone, designed to protect passengers, but that’s not where you want the kennel to sit.

You’ll want to check with your car’s manufacturer to determine where the crumple zones in your specific car are located. Next, measure to ensure the kennel will fit in the designated safe location.

Best dog crates for car travel Pinterest Image

Comparison of the best dog crates for car travel

The best dog crates for car travel.

I conducted deep research on several dog crates for car travel before making a decision. I visited several different websites and combed through reviews and talked to my community on Instagram to get their take on different kennels.

Some key features to look for include:

carrying handles
stackability for multiple dogs
tie down options

A quality dog kennel that will protect your dog in the event of an accent is not cheap and you get what you pay for in most cases.

The typical wire cages or clamshell airline kennels are not suitable for safety in the event of a car crash. They will not protect your dog.

After all of my research, these are the brands that I considered, including the one I ultimately chose.

Top Pick for Dog Crate for Car Travel – Gunner Kennels

Gunner is an industry leader when it comes to dog crates the car. They are the only crate that passed in the 2015 CPS study and have a 5-Star Crash Test Rated designation from the organization.

Practically indestructible, Gunner tested the kennels by tossing the crate off a 200-foot cliff, dropping a 630-lb sled on it, shot it with a shotgun, and applying 4,000 lbs of pressure to it. All tests resulted in very little damage.

This is the kennel I use for both of my dogs. Two Mediums fit perfectly in the back of my Forester. Read my Gunner Dog Crate review here .

The Dakota 283 is my pick as the runner up for best dog crate for car travel.

If you can’t afford a Gunner – Dakota 283

When I was fiRst looking into purchasing a dog crate for the car, I initially went with the Dakota G3 Medium . Although it’s not crash test rated, by CPS, the company has don extensive testing on the kennel.

Here’s what they said when I reached out to ask:

“We have done internal testing of our kennels through a variety of impact tests including 25 ft drop testing for impact and durability. Our testing drives us to test to failure on most tests so that we know limitations and strengths.

Additionally, and most important (sic) is that our kennels have been involved in several rollover accidents with the dog surviving uninjured. This is the ultimate test and testimonial to our design and performance.”

It’s important to consider that Dakota Kennels came out after CPS conducted the safety studies.

I chose the the Dakota G3 medium because it seemed like a good mix of the Ruffland and the Gunner Kennel, with a mid-range price tag. The military strength crate is made from a single piece of rotomolded Polyethylene that resists extreme impact.

I did like this kennel and felt very confident that it would protect my dog in the event of an accident. It was roomier than the Gunner, which isn’t ideal for car travel. It’s also taller, so blocked my rear vision more than the Gunner.

Dakota 283 generously provided a discount code for Long Haul Trekkers followers. Get 10% off your order with code SITKA10 at checkout.

The RuffLand Kennel is the best budget dog crate for car travel.

Best Budget Pick – RuffLand

RuffLand Kenne ls (formerly known as Ruff Tuff Kennels) are the one of the most popular kennels for car travel. They’re very affordable and made from a durable one-piece roto-molded construction that can withstand heavy impact.

They were tested in the CPS crash test and performed well when placed in the rear cargo area against the rear seatback, however in the test without the seatback for reinforcement, the door completely separated from the crate and the dummy dog was not retained.

You can read more about the testing here .

RuffLand kennels are tapered to ensure full breathability, even with gear stacked right up against the crate. The brand also makes tie downs specifically for their kennels to ensure further security in the car.

And there you have it! It’s a small list of kennels, but they are all crates that I would trust my dog’s life with.

Do you use a dog crate for car travel?

Have you been in a car accident with your dog and have any tips to share.

Sunday 5th of November 2023

I am searching for a dog crate for a 10 lb adult dog. Presently I use a hard plastic, 2 door one and place on back seat behind passenger side. I do place the seat belt around it and it is entirely snug and does not move. I am not sure it if that is the best solution but it’s the best I have come up with for her. It fits in an Acura SUV and also Audi 8 SUV but it takes some work to get it cinched in tightly. Any suggestions? Thank you for any help you can give me. Beth

Jen Sotolongo

Wednesday 8th of November 2023

It sounds like to me that your set up is pretty good, actually! What specifically are you looking to improve?

Monday 18th of September 2023

I found your website while trying to find a kennel that would fit my dog and my car...apparently, I adopted a dog too large for my car! Some of these kennels will fit my cargo area sideways, but then I don't have access to the door. Most of the ones that fit my car are too small for my dog. The only one that might possibly maybe could fit the cargo space and be large enough for my long and lanky pup is the RuffLand with 2 doors. Do you have any thoughts on that second door being added to the side of the kennel? Their website states that they've made some changes to the design recently and reinforced a few things. I need a better setup for my girl because I want to start competing with her, which means she'll need a crate for traveling as well as a comfortable place to relax between runs.

Side note: I appreciate the way you answered certain questions/comments that maybe shouldn't have been posted on a public forum. :)

I think the Ruffland is a great option! I'm considering getting one with a side door for my car as I'm about to get a second dog and am debating if I want any trunk space at all or if I'll put it in front of my other kennel in the back seat area. And I appreciate your side note. 😉

Wednesday 26th of April 2023

I am trying to find a double crate so both of my dogs can ride in it in the car. Any thoughts?

Monday 1st of May 2023

I personally wouldn't recommend that. I'm just not a fan of having two dogs in a very small enclosed space where I can't attend to them easily. Unless you have a divider that can go between them, I would get separate crates. The Variocage might have a divider option!

Monday 20th of March 2023

The Lucky Duck Premium Kennel is 5 star crash test certified. It is also pricey, but worth the cost. It has a locking door and holding mechanism at the top and bottom of the door, to insure the corners don't separate from the door opening. It is what I use for my performance dog. I am curious as to why it wasn't included in your review (I thought you had it included in a prior review). Thank you for your research into car travel safety, it is very helpful!

Tuesday 21st of March 2023

You know, I looked into the Lucky Duck, but didn't add them to this list for whatever reason, but I remember that I did like them. I'll have to go back and evaluate-thanks for the prompt!

Tuesday 14th of February 2023

I just wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for the insightful blog post you shared. Your writing style is engaging and your knowledge of the subject matter is impressive. The information you provided was both helpful and thought-provoking, and I am grateful to have come across your blog. Thank you for sharing your expertise and for your contributions to the online community! Krishna Rajbhar

Saturday 18th of February 2023

Thanks so much for the kind words, Krishna!

12 Best Pet Carriers to Keep Dogs and Cats Comfortable and Safe in Transit

By Madison Roberts and Madison Flager

12 Best Pet Carriers 2023 for Traveling With Furry Friends

Traveling with a pet requires sorting out a whole lot of logistics—beyond making sure your own packing list has been properly ticked off, you’ll need to factor in the food, toys, and gear your pet will need on the road and wherever you’re headed. But even before that’s been mapped out, you’ll want to find a trustworthy pet carrier. Reliable, comfortable, and sturdy pet carriers to throw over your shoulder or on your back when your hands are full make navigating the airport a more streamlined experience, and keep your pet comfortable while in transit.

Whether you’re traveling with your furry friend on a month-long vacation to another state, heading to a rental house for a week or two, or just setting out on a quick weekend getaway, these airline-approved carriers will keep your pet safe on the go. Scroll down for a dozen great pet carriers for dogs and cats, including a space-age pod that's perfect for naps and an Arlo Skye carrier that attaches to your favorite carry-on—but first, a few tips to keep in mind while you shop and plan.

What size pet carrier will fit under an airline seat?

Size requirements vary by airline, so always double check with the one you’re flying for the latest pet guidelines before departure. Here are size and weight specifications for JetBlue (17" x 12.5" x 8.5"), American Airlines (18” x 11” x 11” for soft-sided bags, 19” x 13” x 9” for hard-sided kennels), and Delta and United (both 18” x 11” x 11”). Make sure your pet has room to stand up and turn around while inside.

Does a dog carrier count as a carry-on?

Pet carriers must fit under the seat in front of you. However, they can effect your luggage allotment. On JetBlue, for fares above Blue Basic, a carry-on suitcase, backpack, or duffel is allowed so long as it fits in the overhead compartment. However, on other airlines, like American and Delta, your pet carrier replaces your carry-on bag, and your second item is limited to a personal item.

What type of carrier should I get?

It depends on what size pet you have and how you travel. A soft side carrier or backpack carrier is easiest to fit under an airplane seat, and may be more comfortable and breathable for your pet.

Think through your typical (non-pet) travel routine and how you’ll need to adjust it when your personal item is dedicated to your pet. If you often travel with another person, that person can store things you’ll want accessible during the flight in their personal item, but if you’re traveling solo, you’ll probably want to pick a carrier with additional storage for your boarding pass, earphones, and other small essentials. Backpack carriers are best for smaller dogs or cats, though all come with weight guidelines to help you determine whether it'll fit your pet.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Paravel Cabana Pet Carrier

Dimensions: 11"L x 20.5"W x 11"H
Weight maximum: 20 pounds

One of the chicest new additions to the pet carrier world is Paravel's latest ideation, which is largely inspired by their wildly popular Cabana Tote (yes, the one that’s sold out seven times). The design team has resized it to fit a pet up to 20 pounds and added comfortable elements like a washable liner and mesh panels for airflow, all while maintaining the sustainability that the brand is known for by constructing it out of 38 upcycled plastic water bottles. It folds down to be completely flat for easy storage, even if you live in a tiny Upper West Side apartment like me. But the best part? The ability to embroider your pet's name or initials on the side of the carrier. Traveling with your pet has never been more fashionable—or sustainable. — Scott Bay, associate editor

Wild One Travel Carrier

Dimensions: 17.5"L x 11"W x 10"H
Weight maximum: 16 pounds

Tested by Traveler contributor Lauren Dana Ellman, Wild One’s design-friendly pet carrier comes in tan, spruce green, and black, and fits dogs that are 16 pounds and under. “It’s clear this carrier was designed with versatility, durability, and functionality in mind,” Ellman wrote. "There are mesh walls for added breathability, a built-in collar clip, a detachable shoulder strap that pulls double duty as a leash, and a cushion that can be rolled out to use as a plush dog bed or travel mat when you get to your destination.” That interior mat is machine washable, too.

Read a full review here .

Sherpa Original Deluxe pet carrier

Dimensions (for medium size bag): 17"L x 11"W x 10.5"H

A tried and true favorite, this carrier is just about perfect. The Sherpa Original comes equipped with non-slip shoulder straps for easy carrying, locking zippers, and a store pocket for those very important treats. While the design comes airline-approved, its special spring wire frame allows for the carrier to keep its shape, while still being flexible enough to conform to multiple under-seat dimensions.

Away pet carrier

Dimensions: 18.7"L x 10.8"W x 10.75"H
Weight maximum: 18 pounds

It should be no surprise that Away’s pet carrier is just as streamlined and chic as their hit luggage. The bag, which fits pets up to 18 pounds and comes in standard black or an au courant gray-blue, is incredibly thoughtfully designed. Standout features include plush, removable sherpa bedding, plenty of pockets for you to store travel documents, and a side pocket with drainage holes (so you can store your included collapsible water bowl inside). Plus, wide openings on both the side and top for easy access, mesh panels on three sides for maximum ventilation, and a roll-up screen so your pet can see what's going on outside. As for safety: Innovative exterior latches can fasten the carrier to a car seat belt, and an interior safety-collar clip prevents adventurous pets from scampering out as soon as you unzip the carrier, And, of course, it’s designed to strap onto any type of Away luggage, making toting this carrier a breeze, even through a crowded terminal. — Juliet Izon

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Texsens innovative traveler bubble backpack

Dimensions: 12.6"L x 11.4"W x 16.5"H

If you’re looking for a bag for road trips or other non-plane travel (it can lay sideways under some airplane seats, but is a little large), this budget-friendly backpack carrier from Amazon is a solid option. Cat mom Becca Guthrie says her pet, Joe, likes to be able to see out from nearly every direction, and she likes that the sides unzip, making it easier to get him inside. It fits dogs up to 15 pounds or cats up to 18 pounds, and comes in a half dozen colors and patterns, with two side pockets to store treats, a leash, or personal items.

Image may contain Luggage Animal Dog Canine Mammal and Pet

Arlo Skye Pet Carrier

Dimensions (for medium size bag): 17.5"L x 11"W x 10"H
Weight maximum: 25 pounds

Obsessed with your silver Arlo Skye suitcase? Well, now you can pair it with the brand's very own pet carrier, which manages to be totally practical while still looking chic (not an easy feat). With 360-degree ventilation, your travel buddy will be safe and secure nestled on top of the aluminum or polycarbonate Carry-On or Check-In suitcase, and the carrier includes a memory foam mattress so they'll feel like they're flying first class (even when you're not). When it's not in use, the foldable design makes it easy to pack.

Image may contain Bag Accessories Handbag and Accessory

Mark & Graham Buddy pet carrier

Dimensions: 18"L x 11.5"W x 11"H
Weight maximum: 50 pounds

If you're the type of shopper who puts a monogram on everything your pet owns, this is the carrier for you. The nylon bag comes in two neutral colors (ivory or navy) that'll match most any travel gear, and can be customized with your pet’s name embroidered on top for an additional $12. Inside, the carrier features a removable fleece lining for comfort, a built-in leash for security, and netted sides that can be rolled down if your pooch gets hot.

Image may contain Clothing Apparel Footwear Shoe Animal Cat Mammal Pet and Sneaker

Sleepypod mobile pet bed

Dimensions: 17"L x 17"W x 13"H
Weight maximum: 15 pounds

Multi-use functionality is key, and this pet carrier triples as a carrier, car seat, and mobile sleep solution. The design is perfect to help your pet cope with long road trips, plus it works as a super-cozy bed once you reach your destination. Ready to hit the road again? Zip the bed up its sides to transform it into a portable carrier.

Petsfit double sided expandable carrier

Dimensions (for large size bag): 19"L x 12"W X 12"H (not expanded)

This carrier is basically the animal world equivalent of a lie-flat seat on an overseas flight. The Petsfit Double Sided Carrier comes in standard, airline-approved sizing with machine-washable fleece bedding, padded shoulder straps, and a side strap for securing to the top of your suitcase handle. In the event that no one takes up the middle seat next to you, it also has two expandable compartments so your pet can stretch its legs out.

Natuvalle 6-in-1 pet carrier backpack

Dimensions (for XXS bag): 14"L x 8.3"W x 8.3"H
Weight maximum: 8 pounds

This multi-use 6-in-1 pet carrier is for travelers who love having a ton of options: It can be worn as a backpack, front pack, shoulder bag, hand bag, two-position carrier, or used as a car seat crate. Plus, the flexible frame helps keep its shape no matter which way you're carrying it, leaving your pet with plenty of room to lounge in. It comes in three sizes based on weight, with the largest made for pets up to 19 pounds.

Image may contain Accessories Handbag Accessory Bag and Purse

Mr. Peanut Gold-Series Dog & Cat carrier

Dimensions: 18"L x 10.5"W x 11"H

When traveling with a pet, safety is key, and this carry-on pet bag is built with that in mind. It’s designed with self-locking zippers that don’t slide up or down, so you won’t have any worries about chasing your pet down the jetbridge. The bag also includes an ID tag holder, an interior leash attachment, and a safety seat belt in case your flight encounters unexpected rough air. Just as stylish as it is practical, the carrier features a fabric rollaway cover, faux fleece bedding, mesh windows on the top and sides, and an extra pocket. (If you often fly first or business and have slightly more room at your feet, spring for the expandable option .)

Snoozer Pet Products Roll Around 4-in-1 pet carrier

Dimensions (for medium size bag): 14"L x 11"W x 20"H

Thankfully, there are plenty of pet carriers out there with wheels, too. This one will let you roll through the airport with ease and comes equipped with side storage pockets, as well as a seat-belt loop to keep your pet safe—and the 4-in-1 design means it can also be carried as a backpack. A carry-on that only holds a puppy? Now that's our idea of "packing light."

The Best Soft-Sided Dog Crates 2024 Review

Breed Advisor is reader supported! This page contains affiliate links, that at no additional cost to you, may earn a small commission. Find out more here .

Written by: Ann-Marie Sharpe

Crate training has so many benefits for your dog, and you!

However, some owners feel that a wire crate isn’t suitable for their furbaby or don’t fit in with their lifestyle.

With all the choices on the market today, you can find something that works for you and your best pal.

Best Soft dog crates can provide the comfort and easy portability that many dog owners are seeking for their dogs.

In this guide, we’ve thoroughly reviewed the best soft-sided dog crates on the market.

Our top choice is the Frisco Indoor & Outdoor 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate . It’s lightweight, calming for your dog, and affordable too.

The Best Soft-Sided Dog Crates

Firstrax Noz2Noz Sof-Krate N2 Series 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate

Editor's Choice

Best overall
Quality, durable construction
3 doors for easy access

EliteField 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate

Best for color choice
Range of colors available
High-quality construction

MidWest Canine Camper Single Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate

Best for active dogs
Water resistant for outdoor use
Easy-to-clean material

1. Firstrax Noz2Noz Sof-Krate N2 Series 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate [ CHECK PRICE ]

2. elitefield 3-door collapsible soft-sided dog crate [ check price ], 3. midwest canine camper single door collapsible soft-sided dog crate [ check price ], 4. go pet club double door collapsible soft-sided dog crate [ check price ], 5. frisco indoor & outdoor 3-door collapsible soft-sided dog crate [ check price ], 6. midwest canine camper single door collapsible soft-sided dog crate [ check price ], 7. etna pop-open single door collapsible soft-sided dog crate, black & white, 33 inch [ check price ], more detailed soft-sided dog crate reviews, best soft-sided dog crates.

Firstrax Noz2Noz Sof-Krate N2 Series 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate Check Price
EliteField 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate Check Price
MidWest Canine Camper Single Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate Check Price
Go Pet Club Double Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate Check Price
Frisco Indoor & Outdoor 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate Check Price
Etna Pop-Open Single Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate, Black & White, 33 inch Check Price

Firstrax Noz2Noz Sof-Krate N2 Series 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate

Firstrax noz2noz sof-krate n2 series 3-door collapsible soft-sided dog crate review.

If you’re looking for the best folding soft dog crate, the Firstrax Noz2Noz Sof-Krate N2 Series 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate is well worth considering.

This crate is lightweight and assembles in seconds, making it perfect for travel. Mesh sides provide plenty of ventilation, even in summer temperatures.

I loved that despite being soft-sided, this crate was still highly durable. With a strong steel frame and a water-resistant base, this crate is designed to last.

There are 3 doors for easy access and heavy-duty zippers on the doors for security. It even comes in a choice of sizes to suit most breeds!

Owners loved that it was so lightweight, making it easy to carry
Most owners felt this crate was comfortable for their dog
Many said it was sturdy and highly durable for a soft crate
Folds flat which is convenient for storage and transport
Multiple doors allow easy access at all times
Zippers can be prone to sticking or breaking
Not designed to stand up to chewing or digging

EliteField 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate

Elitefield 3-door collapsible soft-sided dog crate review.

The EliteField 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate is a high-quality, durable option if you’re looking for the best soft-sided crate.

It’s available in a wide range of color and size choices so you can find something that suits your dog.

There are 3 mesh doors for easy access and to provide ventilation. Made from steel tubing and polyester fabric, this crate is durable and designed to stand up to wear over time.

It’s easy to assemble and folds down quickly for storage or transport. It’s also very lightweight!

I particularly liked that this crate came with a carry case for easy transportation. There’s even a fleece bed included for your dog’s comfort.

Owners felt this crate was comfortable for their dog to rest or travel in
Assembles quickly and easily without the use of tools
Many said it was sturdy for a soft-sided crate
Owners liked the choice of colors, in particular mentioning it was nice to have the option of a bright color
Owners liked that the crate was lightweight and came with a carry bag for convenience
Not designed to stand up to biting, chewing, or destructive behavior
Zippers pose a weak point and can break easily if chewed

MidWest Canine Camper Single Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate

Midwest canine camper single door collapsible soft-sided dog crate review.

If you have a very sporty, active dog, the MidWest Canine Camper Single Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate could be the ideal choice for you.

It’s made from water-resistant material which makes it perfect for outdoor use and means it’s easy to clean after an adventure!

It assembles and folds down easily to take with you traveling, and it’s lightweight. Mesh doors and little mesh windows allow your dog to see what’s happening around them, as well as provide ventilation.

The frame is made from steel to ensure durability, designed to wear well over time. I liked that this crate came with a sheepskin pad for the bottom, providing the ultimate comfort for your dog.

Owners felt this crate was very high quality and well made
Many said their dog was comfortable in this crate, even when they hadn’t liked other crates
Easy to fold down and put back up in seconds with no tools required
Mesh windows allow dogs to watch what’s going on during travel
Durable, water-resistant fabric stands up to wear
Not designed to stand up to chewing or other destructive behavior
Zippers can be prone to breakage if not handled carefully

Go Pet Club Double Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate

Go Pet Club Double Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate review

Best carrier crate
Cozy and comfortable for small dogs
Doubles as soft crate and carrier

The Go Pet Club Double Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate is an amazing option for small and toy breeds, especially if you want both a soft crate and a carrier in 1.

The crate is lightweight and can fold down for easy portability. It has 2 handles when fully assembled, which I found handy for carrying my small breed dog around.

The crate is cozy and comfortable for your precious pooch, with plenty of ventilation and a removable fleece floor pad.

The crate has both a top and front door, giving you 2 ways to access your dog. Best of all, this crate comes at an amazingly low price.

Many owners found the crate was suitable for car travel, fitting easily in the car and helping to keep their dogs calm
Lightweight as well as easy to fold down and reassemble, making it handy for travel or storage if you aren’t using the crate all the time
Some found that being able to carry their dog while in the crate was very helpful, especially for vet visits
Mesh provides ventilation and lets your pup peep out at the world, which many owners enjoyed
Lots of owners felt this crate was wonderful for puppies and smaller breed dogs
Owners felt that the soft mat at the bottom of the crate provided extra comfort, as well as being easy to remove and clean
Not strong enough for dogs who are escape artists
Some found that the mesh was not strong enough for big dogs or playful puppies, and was prone to breakage
Safety attachment to clip dog inside the crate during travel can be easily chewed by mischievous dogs
Not suitable for dogs who are prone to chewing

Frisco Indoor & Outdoor 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate

frisco-indoor-outdoor-3-door-collapsible-soft-sided-dog-small-pet-crate

Frisco Indoor & Outdoor 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate review

Best 3-door crate
3 mesh doors for easy access
Comfortable and portable

The Frisco Indoor & Outdoor 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate is 1 of the best soft-sided dog crates, with 3 mesh doors providing easy access for your pup.

The mesh doors also provide excellent ventilation for your dog, as well as letting them look out at the world. I found that my chihuahua in particular prefers the option of being able to look at what’s going on around her.

The high-quality materials are both durable and comfortable for your best friend. This crate folds down easily and features a carrying handle for convenient portability and storage.

The crate comes in a range of sizes to suit all breeds and comes at a great mid-range price.

Lightweight, easily folded and reassembled, making it very convenient for travel
Owners found the 3 doors provided easy access for themselves and their dog
Most owners felt this crate was good value for money and was affordable
Some felt that the crate was cozy and comfortable, creating a calming den-like space for their dog with plenty of ventilation
Handle and straps on smaller sizes are helpful during travel
Not sturdy enough for dogs who are destructive or try to escape
Some felt that the material was not as durable as they expected
Some owners found that the crate was too hot for their dogs during warmer weather

Best for outdoor adventure
Sturdy and portable
High-quality, water-resistant material

The MidWest Canine Camper Single Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate is a fantastic choice for adventurous pups.

This crate is designed for travel with sturdy, water-resistant material and a steel frame that is easy to set up and fold down. The crate has good ventilation with 1 door and meshed windows on each side.

The crate is not only sturdy but also comfortable, with a synthetic sheepskin pad for your pal to snuggle up on (my chihuahua loves these soft faux sheepskin pads).

Available in a range of sizes, this crate is suitable for all breeds and comes at a very reasonable price.

Easy to take down and assemble, with clear instructions included which owners found helpful
Spacious and comfortable, even for bigger dogs whose owners said sometimes feel cramped in other crates
Even bigger sizes are fairly lightweight, yet heavy enough to make them sturdy, making them great for travel
Some owners stated that the mesh provided great ventilation and was sturdier than in other soft crates they had tried
Owners found that the pad inside was very comfortable for their dogs, as well as easy to clean with a removable cover
Not suitable for power chewers or those determined to escape their crate
Some found that this crate was heavier than other soft-sided crates they had tried
Some owners found that the zippers and mesh doors were easy for their dogs to break

Etna Pop-Open Single Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate, Black & White, 33 inch

Etna Pop-Open Single Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate, Black & White, 33 inch review

Best on a budget
Low price, simple option
Well ventilation and lightweight

The Etna Pop-Open Single Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate provides a simple pop-up, mesh-sided crate for your dog to rest in.

It’s well-ventilated, cozy, and cute with a paw-print design. This crate has 1 door and is a very lightweight option, making it portable.

I found that this created a lovely den for my small dog to lounge in, particularly while sitting outside. This crate is suitable for small dogs and is a great budget option, as it has an exceptionally low price.

Very lightweight, making it easy to carry even for those who have mobility issues or struggle with heavier crates
Useful for travel in the car, keeping your dog cool and comfortable
Mesh windows provide excellent ventilation as well as allow your dog to see out from all angles, unlike some other crates which restrict their view
Some owners really enjoyed the pawprint design on the crate, feeling it was stylish and cute for their dog
The pop-up aspect makes the crate very easy to put up and fold away
Not suitable for destructive dogs, as the mesh sides provide weak points, and the crate is very lightweight
Material is not as sturdy or durable as in other soft crates
Easy to tip over if your dog is very playful or moves around a lot while inside their crate
Care is needed during assembly as the crate pops up quite quickly

Things to Look for in a Soft Dog Crate

When you’re looking for the best soft dog crate, you should look for the following:

Correct Size for Your Dog

It’s crucial that the crate you choose is the right size for your dog, for their comfort and safety. Your pup should be able to stand up, turn around, and stretch out in their crate, but not walk around freely.

High-Quality Materials

A crate made from high-quality, sturdy materials is more likely to last longer and withstand wear. A lot of soft-sided crates will be made with water-resistant material to stand up to the weather. If you plan on using your crate outdoors, keep an eye out for this.

Number of Doors

Crates will vary from having 1 to 4 doors. Think about where you want to use the crate and how many doors are convenient for you.

Some people may only need 1 entryway. Others may prefer more options if they are using the crate in different settings, for example, fitting it into the car.

Ventilation

It’s vital your dog has enough ventilation when they’re inside the crate. Many soft-sided crates will have mesh windows or doors to allow plenty of airflows, while still keeping out any bugs and keeping your dog contained.

Ease of Storage and Assembly

If your dog isn’t going to be using the crate all the time, soft-sided crates have an advantage because they’re usually very lightweight and portable.

They can typically be folded down and reassembled easily. Look for this in the description if it’s important to you.

Comfort for Your Dog

Of course, you want your best friend to be as comfortable as possible. Soft crates tend to provide a cozy, comfortable cave.

Choosing the right size of crate and picking 1 with good ventilation will be key for comfort.

Many will come with removable soft bottoms for your dog to lie on. It’s always a good idea to check whether a bed or comfortable mat comes with the crate. If not, you can always add 1 of your own.

Crufts Soft Dog Crate is ideal for providing comfort and security. It’s available with multiple doors and is made from lightweight, durable material. The mesh panels in the design provide good ventilation and airflow.

The soft crate kennel is another great soft dog crate to choose from. It comes with a breathable mesh cover and removable bottom for easy cleaning. Plus, it folds flat for storage, making it convenient and versatile.

Easy Cleaning

We all know that dogs can get messy and muddy very quickly. Sometimes they have accidents when they’re traveling. So, of course, you need a crate that’s easy to clean.

Some soft crates will have material that’s easy to wipe down. Others will have removable covers or bases that you can put in the washing machine.

Most soft crates have mesh windows and doors, which allows your dog to see out and watch the world go by.

Soft Crate Vs Wire Crate

Soft crates have many advantages over heavy-duty metal dog crates , including being more comfortable and cozier for your dog.

They tend to be far more lightweight and fold down, making them easy to store and carry. Soft crates don’t make much noise when your dog moves around, while wire crates can be a bit noisy at times.

Soft crates often look more aesthetically pleasing, and many owners prefer them. However, if your dog tends to chew things or try to escape their crate, a soft crate may not be a sensible option (see also ‘ What To Do When Your Dog Chewed Through Crate! ‘). A wire crate provides more security and safety.

If your dog is a puppy, older, or tends to be prone to accidents in their crate, a wire crate may be a more hygienic option.

Wire crates tend to come with removable, plastic bottoms which can easily be cleaned and disinfected. Some people prefer wire crates when traveling in the car, as they can provide additional protection in the event of an accident.

Both types of crates can be very useful for both owner and dog. Choosing which type is best for your dog is a matter of knowing your dog, the purpose of the crate, and personal preference.

Soft Crate Safety Advice

It’s vital you crate train your dog before using a soft crate. There are lots of guides online to help you. Always choose the right size of crate for your pup.

If your dog is prone to destructive chewing, a soft crate may not be safe for them as they’re easily chewed and could cause a choking or blockage hazard.

Are soft dog crates safe?

Yes, soft dog crates are generally safe to use, particularly as a place to sleep and when traveling. However, they won’t give your dog extra protection in the event of a car accident.

How do you clean soft dog crates?

Some soft crates will have detachable covers you can put in the washing machine. Others will have removable bottoms you can wash. Some may wipe down.

Can you crate train with a soft dog crate?

Yes, you can crate train a dog with any crate. However, if you have a puppy or a dog prone to chewing or escaping, a wire crate may be better.

This particularly applies if you plan on leaving your dog alone in its crate often.

Are crates cruel?

No, crates aren’t cruel, provided you crate-train your dog. In fact, crates have many benefits for both the dog and the owner.

A soft crate can be a welcoming, cozy space for your pup. Choosing the right crate can help your dog to feel more secure , keep them safer, and allow them to enjoy adventures with you.

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Ann-Marie Sharpe

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How to drive safely with a dog

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If you have a pet, you know how difficult it is to leave your favorite companion at home. Fortunately, there are many reasons to bring your furry friend along on a road trip, whether you’re embarking on a week-long camping adventure or heading to the beach during the warmer months. But did you know there are several safety precautions to consider whenever you travel with your dog? These include using appropriate restraints in the car, packing up-to-date vaccination records and ensuring you have essentials like food , water bowls and waste bags on hand.

If you’re planning on taking your dog along for a car ride but don’t know where to start, we spoke to veterinarians and pet safety experts about the best ways to keep your dog safe. We also rounded up expert-recommended and crash-tested crates, carriers and safety harnesses.

SKIP AHEAD Best crash-tested carriers | Best crash-tested crates | Best crash-tested harnesses | What kind of car restraint is best for your dog? | How to safely travel with your dog

Our top picks

Best carrier: Away Travel Carrier
Best crate: Gunner Kennel G1
Best travel harness: Sleepypod Click-It Terrain

How we picked the best crates, carriers and harnesses

We kept the following in mind while picking safe travel restraints for dogs, based on expert guidance:

Crash-tested: Look for travel enclosures that have undergone crash testing by the Center for Pet Safety , a registered nonprofit and advocacy organization that crash tests car restraints and containment devices, according to Wendy Hauser , veterinarian and special advisor to ASPCA Pet Health Insurance. “The pet products industry is highly unregulated and many brands subjectively ‘pass’ their products if they test them in the lab,” says CPS founder Lindsey Wolko. This can give pet owners a false sense of security. “Most carriers on the market only offer distraction prevention, which is important, but in a crash, they may not perform as you would expect them to,” she says.
Type of car restraint: There are four main types of restraints: carriers, crates, harnesses and booster seats. Carriers and crates, especially hard-sided options, are safest because they keep your pet secure using your car’s seat belt system or built-in anchors, according to our experts. Travel harnesses that fit properly can keep your dog securely attached to a seat belt strap but won’t leave them feeling trapped as they would in an enclosed carrier. Booster seats generally aren’t recommended by our experts, who note that you should only use one in conjunction with a travel harness and never attach it to the vehicle’s seat belt system, center console or seat.
Size and weight of your pet: Check the weight and size guidelines of the dog carrier, harness or car seat to make sure it’ll fit your pet securely and comfortably, according to our experts. If a harness or seat is too big, they may be able to wriggle out during the ride, creating a distracting and dangerous situation.

The best crash-tested carriers, crates and harnesses for dogs

To help you determine which products are safest for your companion, we’ve compiled the safety products and containment devices that are crash test-certified by the CPS , which put products through rigorous testing to determine the strength and effectiveness of latches, zippers, stitching and built-in reinforcements.

Best crash-tested carriers

Away travel carrier.

This option from the popular travel brand Away is designed for both car and airline travel and won a Select Best for Your Pet award for best overall travel carrier. It’s made from water-resistant nylon and has latches on the side that securely fasten to a car’s seat belt system, according to the brand. It has top and side openings and comes with machine-washable sherpa bedding on the inside to help your pet feel comfortable. It also has multiple pockets to keep your belongings secure and the front entry point has fully see-through mesh (if you want to cover the mesh, it includes a piece of fabric that rolls down). The Away carrier comes in two colors — black and blue — and you can personalize it with your initials for an additional $35.

Pet weight: Up to 18 lbs | Water-resistant: Yes | Washable: Yes, bedding | Dimensions : 18.7 in. L x 10.8 in. W x 10.75 in. H

Away Pet Carrier

Away Pet Carrier $ at Away Travel

Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier

This travel carrier from Select staff-favorite brand Diggs has custom seat belt clips and a buckle strap to keep your dog secure during car travel. It’s recommended for dogs weighing up to 18 pounds (the brand does offer an inflatable travel crate for larger dogs weighing up to 80 pounds). The carrier has a built-in bed and pee pad, and it has both front and side openings that make it easier for your pet to get in and out of the carrier, according to the brand. It also has three outer pockets and a detachable cross-body strap. It comes in four colors: navy, slate gray , blush pink and charcoal gray .

Pet weight: Up to 18 lbs | Water-resistant: N/A | Washable: N/A | Dimensions: 20 in. L x 10.8 in. W x 11.5 in. H

Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier $ at Amazon
Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier $ at Diggs

Paravel Cabana Carrier

The Cabana Carrier is designed from Paravel’s EcoCraft canvas, which is made of 38 recycled plastic bottles, according to the brand. It has a washable fleece lining, multiple pockets, a trolley sleeve so it can attach to your suitcase and mesh panels to encourage airflow inside. It also folds down completely, so it’s easy to store away when you aren’t using it.

Pet weight: Up to 20 lbs | Water-resistant: Yes | Washable: Yes, fleece lining | Dimensions: 11 in. L x 11 in. W x 20.5 in. H

Paravel Cabana Carrier $ at Paravel

Sleepypod Atom

The Sleepypod Atom is designed for smaller pets and works for both vehicle and airline travel (although experts recommend looking at your airline’s carrier size requirements before boarding). This carrier weighs only 3.4 pounds and has a buckle on both sides that can secure it to the seat belt in the rear seat of the vehicle. The included plush bedding on the inside is also removable and machine-washable.

Pet weight: Up to 12 lbs | Water-resistant: N/A | Washable: Yes, bedding | Dimensions: 17 in. L x 8.5 in. W x 10.5 in. H

Sleepypod Atom $ at Sleepypod

Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed

The original Sleepypod includes velcro positioning points to secure a seat belt, removable and machine-washable interior bedding and mesh panels for breathability. “The bottom of the carrier can be used as a bed inside the home, making acclimation training easier for the pet,” says Wolko. It’s also offered in a mini size , which is certified for pets 7 pounds and under and is considered an appropriate size for several airlines.

Pet weight: Up to 15 lbs | Water-resistant: N/A | Washable: Yes, bedding | Dimensions: 17 in. L x 8.5 in. W x 10.5 in. H

Sleepypod $ at Sleepypod

Best crash-tested crates

Gunner kennel g1.

This crate earned a 5-star safety rating from the CPS in both the crate and carrier-class — it’s the only product that has earned a dual certification, says Wolko. It has double-wall construction that provides impact protection for your pet, according to the brand. It also has a reversible door design that lets you open the crate from either side, and the door is reinforced with an aluminum frame that can keep your dog safely contained in case of a car crash, according to Gunner. It comes in four sizes: small, medium, intermediate and large. Though the crate doesn’t provide exact size and weight guidelines for dogs, the brand does offer a size guide that gives recommendations based on your dog’s weight and length and the size of your vehicle.

Pet weight: Varies based on crate size | Water-resistant: Yes | Washable: Yes, exterior | Dimensions: 24.5 in. L x 18.625 in. W x 19 in. H (small), 29.5 in. L x 20.5 in. W x 23.5 in. H (medium), 34 in. L x 23 in. W x 28.5 in. H (intermediate), 40.25 in. L x 28 in. W x 33.25 in. H (large)

Gunner G1 Kennel

Gunner G1 Kennel $ at Gunner

Lucky Kennel

The Lucky Kennel can be a worthwhile option if you’re traveling with larger dogs. It has reversible doors and ventilation holes to keep air flowing on hot days, and it comes in two sizes (intermediate and large). If you have more than one pet, you can stack multiple Lucky Kennels on top of each other. The brand also offers a comfort pad that fits inside the crate and gives your dog a layer of cushion for the ride.

Pet weight: Up to 75 lbs (intermediate) and 110 lbs (large) | Water-resistant: N/A | Washable: N/A | Dimensions: 32.5 in. L x 22.5 in. W x 24.5 in. H (intermediate), 38 in. L x 24 in. W x 29 in. H (large)

Lucky Kennel $ at Lucky Duck

Rock Creek Aluminum Dog Crate

This durable crate has an aluminum metal frame and comes in four sizes: medium, large, XL and XXL. It has a lockable door latch and secondary latches to prevent dogs from escaping, according to the brand. You can stack multiple of these crates on top of each other, and it comes in seven colors, including white, blue , pink and green . For dogs with crate anxiety who might escape, the brand also offers a door guard to add another layer of protection. Though the brand does not provide specific weight requirements for each size, Rock Creek does offer a size guide with pet height recommendations. Keep in mind this is the heaviest option on our list, weighing 38 pounds for the medium size and 79 pounds for the XXL size.

Pet weight: Varies based on crate size and pet height | Water-resistant: N/A | Washable: N/A | Dimensions: 30.5 in. L x 20 in. W x 22.5 in. H (medium), 36.5 in. L x 23.5 in. W x 27.75 in. H (large), 42.5 in. L x 28.5 in. W x 32.5 in. H (XL), 48 in. L x 32.25 in. W x 35 in. H (XXL)

Rock Creek Aluminum Dog Crate $ at Rock Creek Crates

Best crash-tested harnesses

Sleepypod Click-It Terrain Plus

This safety harness from Sleepypod is certified crash-tested by the CPS for dogs up to 110 pounds and has a three-point design, which secures your dog’s torso to the seat using your car’s seat belt system. It also has shock-absorbing sleeves and a padded vest for additional security and comfort, according to the brand. While it’s designed for car safety, it also doubles as a walking harness. It comes in four sizes ranging from small to XL . Keep in mind that Sleepypod harnesses may not provide a safe or proper fit for certain breeds like Greyhounds, Whippets, Salukis, Afghan Hounds and Borzoi due to their unique body types, according to the brand.

Pet weight: From 18 lbs up to 110 lbs | Water-resistant: N/A | Washable: N/A | Chest size: 20.5-25.5 in.(small), 25.5-28 in. (medium), 28-31 in. (large), 31-41.5 in. (XL)

Sleepypod Click-It Terrain Plus $ at Rover

Sleepypod Click-It Sport Plus

Lightweight and designed for everyday use, the Sleepypod Click-It Sport also passed the CPS crash test for dogs up to 90 pounds. Like the Click-It Terrain, this option comes in four sizes — small, medium , large and XL — and has three points of contact to attach to the seat belt and reduce forward and side-to-side movement, according to the brand. It also doubles as a walking harness and has a padded vest with reflective strips to help you see your pup better at night.

Pet weight: From 18 lbs up to 90 lbs | Water-resistant: N/A | Washable: N/A | Chest size: 16.5-22 in.(small), 22.5-28 in. (medium), 28.5-34 in. (large), 34.5-40 in. (XL)

Sleepypod Click-It Sport Plus $ at Rover

Other dog travel essentials

Kong Water Bottle

A travel water bottle to ensure your dog is getting ample water during road trips is always important, especially during hot weather and long trips, according to our experts. The Kong Water Bottle is a Select Best for Your Pet award winner thanks to its lid which acts as a bowl. Its small handle and shape made it easy to pour, according to Select social commerce editor Sadhana Daruvuri, who uses this bottle to keep her dog Bandit hydrated while on the go. The bottle is made of stainless steel and it comes in two sizes and four colors.

Kong Water Bottle $ at Chewy

Kurgo First Aid Kit for Dogs & Cats

Wolko recommends taking a pet-friendly first aid kit while traveling in case of an emergency. This 50-piece option includes cotton swabs, antiseptic towelettes, gauze pads, sting relief pads and more, all inside a functional multi-compartment pack. In addition to a first aid kit, our experts recommend researching an emergency vet at your destination and having their contact number handy.

Kurgo First Aid Kit for Dogs & Cats $ at Amazon
Kurgo First Aid Kit for Dogs & Cats $ at Chewy

Earth Rated Dog Poop Bags

No matter where you travel with your dog, waste bags are an essential item to take to avoid leaving messes behind. I use this option from Earth Rated for my dog Bella every time we come back from walks, and I love that they’re durable and don’t rip when I’m wiping the rougher parts of her paws. The bags come in either a 120-pack or a 270-pack, and you can choose to purchase either fragrance-free or lavender-scented bags. These bags block odors and prevent leaking, according to the brand.

Earth Rated Dog Poop Bags $ at Amazon
Earth Rated Dog Poop Bags $ at Walmart

Dog by Dr. Lisa Wipes

Pet wipes can serve multiple purposes on a trip, from cleaning up dog-related messes to wiping their paws or faces whenever they get dirty. One of our favorite at-home grooming products , these wipes include plant-based ingredients like aloe vera, cucumber extract and coconut to moisturize and soothe the skin, according to the brand. They’re also a Select staff favorite: I use them to wipe Bella’s paws every time we come home from a walk, and Select associate updates editor Zoe Malin says they smell great and are super gentle, so they don’t irritate her dog Chance’s sensitive skin.

Dog by Dr. Lisa Wipes $ at DOG by Dr. Lisa

What kind of car restraint is best for your dog?

Much like humans wearing seat belts in case of a crash, dogs should be properly strapped into a crash-tested restraint, whether that’s an enclosed pet carrier or a travel safety harness. This not only reduces the chance of serious injury to your dog during an accident but can also keep them from escaping inside the car and distracting the driver. “Dogs often don’t realize the dangers of interfering with a driver, so many may try to climb on the driver or get in their lap — especially if they are anxious,” says Dr. Wendy Mandese , a veterinarian and clinical associate professor at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine.

There are four main types of car restraints for pets: carriers, crates, travel harnesses and car seats or boosters. Below, we list the differences between each type and how to use them properly. Though these all have their unique pros and cons, our experts agree that they should be independently crash-tested by the CPS to make sure it’s safe outside of brand claims.

Pet carriers and crates

Carriers are covered enclosures that can be strapped in using a seat belt or ISOFIX/LATCH anchors , which are connected to the vehicle’s seat and designed for installing children’s car seats without using a seat belt. “There are two types of carriers: those that only prevent distraction and those that offer crash protection,” says Wolko. You can prevent this by keeping carriers connected to the seat and closed while the car is moving.

Crates, on the other hand, are typically larger and heavier than carriers. “Crash protection crates have anchor straps that are used to secure the kennel to the vehicle via the available connections in the cargo area,” says Wolko.

“Carriers and crates are the preferred options for safe travel because they confine the pet,” says Dr. Christina Carlo , a veterinarian and the medical director at VCA Avondale Veterinary Hospital. Hard-sided crates and carriers specifically are the safest option for your pet because they provide the most protection against impact, according to Dr. Dana Varble , chief veterinary officer at the North American Veterinary Community.

While carriers usually go in the back seat, crates typically go in the cargo area of an SUV. “They’re typically larger in size and heavier, [and] therefore they should not be secured on the rear seat of the vehicle,” said Wolko.

Like all other pet travel products, carriers and crates should be independently crash-tested by the CPS to ensure safety outside of brand claims.

Travel harnesses

Travel harnesses connect to the vehicle’s seat belt system, which can safely keep your pet secured in your car. “Harnesses with seat belt clips are a great choice as they allow some freedom for your pet to sit up or lay down and experience the fun of a car ride without the risk of being loose,” says Varble. Make sure the harness properly fits your dog — it shouldn’t feel loose and it should fit snugly on their body and chest — and has a handle that can securely attach to a seat belt strap, says Carlo. And just like crates and carriers, these harnesses need to be CPS crash-tested to ensure they meet safety standards.

Car seats or booster seats

Car seats serve as open-air suspended seats or booster seats, and some can be anchored by the seat belt. Others may look like a catcher’s mitt.

Because car seats are typically open, they can serve as a good way to let your dog look out of the window and reduce car sickness, which is common in puppies, according to Mandese. You should always pair a car seat with a safety harness to ensure your dog is secure and prevent them from flying out of their seat in case of a crash.

However, there are a few safety concerns surrounding car seats, and neither our experts nor CPS recommend them to pet owners. Many use the vehicle’s seat belt system to stay secure, but you should only use this system to secure your dog’s travel harness, according to Wolko.

If you do use a booster seat, it should be in conjunction with a travel harness, which reduces the risk of injury in case of a crash since it anchors them down. “Boosters are not safe in an accident because they are open and the only strap controlling the pet is usually small and connected to a collar around the neck unless the pet is wearing a harness,” says Carlo. You should also only secure the seat using the car’s ISOFIX/LATCH anchors. “This will allow the seat belt system to be used independently to secure the harness the pet will need to wear,” Wolko says.

Some car seats may require you to connect them directly to the seat, but these connections are usually very weak and will not prevent injury, according to Wolko. Other pet travel seats connect to the console between the driver and passenger seats, which is both unsteady and unsafe, she says. You should also opt for a rear-facing car seat and avoid forward-facing options since your pet can fly out during a crash, according to Dr. Kristen Nelson , a veterinarian and author of “ Coated With Fur: A Vet’s Life .”

How to safely travel with your dog

Though car restraints may vary in type and effectiveness, one thing remains consistent among all of our experts: You should never place pets and carriers, harnesses, car seats or any other restraint in the front seat of your car because the airbags can seriously hurt your pet. You should securely place restraints and enclosures in the rear seat or the cargo area of the vehicle, according to Nelson.

Never let your dog ride in the back of an open truck because it can lead to severe injuries, and you should avoid letting your dog ride with their head sticking out of an open window since that can lead to eye injuries from road debris, according to Mandese.

When it comes to keeping your dog secure, tightening seat belts is key. “The most common mistake is leaving the seat belts loose to make the pet more comfortable,” says Nelson. “Unfortunately, the extra room lets them fly during a crash.” However, you should never connect the internal tether of the carrier or the seat belt to your pet’s collar since it can result in neck fractures or airway damage if you were to brake suddenly, says Mandese.

Meet our experts

Wendy Hauser is a veterinarian and the founder of Peak Veterinary Consulting . She is also the special advisor to ASPCA Pet Health Insurance.
Lindsey Wolko is the founder of the Center for Pet Safety , a registered nonprofit and advocacy organization that crash-tests car restraints and containment devices for pets.
Dr. Wendy Mandese is a veterinarian and clinical associate professor at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine.
Dr. Christina Carlo is a veterinarian and the medical director at VCA Avondale Veterinary Hospital.
Dr. Dana Varble is the chief veterinary officer at the North American Veterinary Community.
Dr. Kristen Nelson is a veterinarian and author of “Coated With Fur: A Vet’s Life.”

Why trust Select?

Mili Godio is an editor at Select who covers a variety of pet topics, including dog food , beds , treats , toys and more. For this article, Godio spoke to six veterinarians and pet safety experts about how to safely travel in a car with your dog. She also compiled their recommendations for the best crash-tested carriers, crates and harnesses to consider and researched dozens of options on the market based on the experts’ guidance.

Catch up on Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com

Moscow Water Dog

The Moscow Water Dog , also known as the Moscow Diver , Moscow Retriever or Moskovsky Vodolaz , was a little-known dog breed derived from the Newfoundland , Caucasian Shepherd Dog and East European Shepherd . It is now extinct, but was used in the development of the Black Russian Terrier . [ citation needed ] The Moscow Water Dog was produced only by the Red Star Kennels, the state-operated organization chartered to provide working dogs for the armed services of the Soviet Union. The breeding program was discontinued as the dogs would attack drowning victims instead of saving them. [ citation needed ]

After World War II , there were very few working dogs in the Soviet Union , as many had been killed during the war. Some were imported but there were not enough to establish a dedicated breeding programme for a specific breed. The Central Military School of Working Dogs (the Red Star Kennels), under the command of Colonel G. P. Medvedev began working on developing a number of its own specialised breeds by crossing the available stock. [1] A few breeds were established, including the Moscow Newfoundland, a cross of the German Shepherd Dog and the Newfoundland; the Moscow Great Dane, using the German Shepherd Dog and the Great Dane ; the Brudasty Hound, which was an Airedale Terrier and Russian Hound cross; the Moscow Watchdog , [2] a combination of the St. Bernard and the Caucasian Shepherd Dog ; and the Moscow Water Dog. The most successful breed to come out of the programme was the Black Russian Terrier , [3] [4] which gained international recognition in 1984; it derived from a combination of 14 different breeds, including the Moscow Water Dog in the later stages of its development. [ citation needed ]

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Top 10 Moscow (DK Eyewitness Travel Guide) Paperback – January 1, 2012

Print length 128 pages
Language English
Publisher DK Eyewitness Travel
Publication date January 1, 2012
Dimensions 4.53 x 0.51 x 7.48 inches
ISBN-10 1405370416
ISBN-13 978-1405370417
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Publisher ‏ : ‎ DK Eyewitness Travel; 0th edition (January 1, 2012)
Language ‏ : ‎ English
Paperback ‏ : ‎ 128 pages
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1405370416
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1405370417
Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 6.8 ounces
Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 4.53 x 0.51 x 7.48 inches

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5. Aspen Pet Porter Heavy-Duty Pet Porter

6. AmazonBasics Two-Door Top-Load Kennel

7. EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate

8. Guardian Gear Collapsible Dog Crate

9. New World Folding Metal Dog Crate

10. LUCKUP Heavy Duty Dog Crate

My detailed travel crate setup

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The 10 Best Dog Crates & Carriers For Car Travel: Keeping Spot Safe!

Safest Dog Crates & Carriers for the Car

1. Diggs Passenger Carrier

2. Gunner G1

3. Sleepypod Atom

4. Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed

5. Sleepypod Air

6. Sleepypod Mini

7. Away Pet Carrier

8. Lucky Duck Kennel

9. MIM Variocage Single

10. Ruff Land Kennel

Why Dogs Need to Be Secured in the Car

The Search For A Safe Dog Car Crate

CPS Study Reveals That the Majority of Dog Crates Aren’t Safe

Key Lesson: Don’t Believe The Marketing

CPS Crash Worthiness Study & Testing Plan

How The CPS Testing Works

Give Careful Consideration to Where the Crate Goes

For Larger Dogs, Security Is Even More Important

Additional Things to Seek in a Car Carrier for Dogs

How Do I Measure My Dog For a Car Carrier?

Distraction Prevention Vs Crash-Proof Power

What to Do If You and Your Dog Are in a Car Accident

Taste of the Wild vs Blue Buffalo: A Head-to-Head Comparison

19 Ways to Cure Dog Car Anxiety

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How to Road Trip with a Dog: Tips for Safety & Success!

How to Keep Your Dog Cool in the Car During the Summer!

The 10 Best Dog Crates of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Standout Features

Best Overall

Best Budget

What Our Testers Say

Best Splurge

Best for Small Dogs

Best for Travel

Best for Flights

Note About Airline Travel

Best Soft Crate

Best Hybrid

Best Budget, Metal Wire

Best Heavy Duty

Final Verdict

How We Tested the Dog Crates

What to Look for in Dog Crates

Removable Tray

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Best Dog Crates of 2024

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