car travel crate dog

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

Dog Crates & Carriers

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April 23, 2024

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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 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!

9 Best Dog Crates for Car Travel (Crash-Tested in 2024)

February 22, 2024

Everyone knows how to pick regular crates. But who knows how to choose a dependable dog crate for car travel?

I wanted to do the honors when I realized how few people have covered this topic. That was the primary catalyst of this final product – a handpicked AND ranked list of amazing dog crates.

This list has EVERYTHING you need to know when traveling with a dog in a car.

Table of Contents

Why Trust Me?

1. gunner g1, 2. dakota 283, 3. gen7pets commuter pet carrier, 4. ruff land kennels, 5. petmate sky kennel, 6. mim variocage, 7. diggs passenger travel carrier, 8. k&h carrier for pets, 9. aspen pet dog kennel, dimensional compatibility, build quality and material , ease of cleaning, ventilation, secure latching/locking mechanism, additional safety features, why use dog crates while traveling by car, benefits of investing in dog crates for car travel, rear bench seat, middle seat , front passenger seat, 4 most important tips for traveling with a dog in a crate, center of pet safety crash testing procedure, measuring your dog properly when buying a travel crate, types of dog crates for car travel, over to you, are all dog crates for cars crash tested, is it safe to put the dog crate in the trunk with the dog in it, what is the best car dog crate.

I picked 20 potential dog crates and examined them as much as possible. YouTube, Reddit, Quora, and even dog trainers… you name it, and I have checked with the source.

So, rest assured; this is the ultimate list of the best car friendly dog crates.

Since it’s ranked, let’s start the list with the best.

9 of the Best Dog Crates for Car Travel

As you might already know, Gunner is a beloved dog crate brand, and they make the best car crates.

Their G1 kennel is crowned as the world’s safest travel kennel.

Let’s see what makes it so.

For starters, this dog’s crate is the only double-walled rotomolded crate in the market; it’s twice the safety of all regular rotomolded crates. In fact, it was crash tested by pet safety.

I personally love how Gunner gives more reassurance as this Gunner kennel is 5-star crash tested. This crate is PROVEN to save real dogs in the event of a real car accident.

Don’t believe me? You can check the video on the product’s site.

Pet parents will love the overall build quality of this crate; after all, it was made for travel.

Coming in four sizes , Gunner has ensured that all puppies get to travel by car peacefully and comfortably.

The smallest size has external dimensions of 24.5″ (L) x 18.625″ (W) x 19″ (H) / 20.5″ (H) with carry handles, and the largest size is 40.25″ (L) x 28″ (W) x 33.25″ (H) / 34.5″ (H) with carry handles.

You can also choose based on your car’s or dog’s size.

This dog crate stays 12% cooler than leading Aluminum and single-wall rotomolded kennels. Your dog will also expend 20% less energy to stay warm inside. Your furry friend will be super comfortable inside with the spacious interior.

What else makes these the best car crates?

It comes with a robust frame system complimented by a strong locking paddle latch . But just in case, there are additional latches to ensure that not even Houdini can escape this dog crate.

Having an exposed dog crate in car travel is uncomfortable for your dog. That’s why the Gunner G1 comes with element-repelling windows. These windows keep your dog secured perfectly.

If it rains or the water bowl gets spilled inside, your dog won’t have to sit in a puddle. There’s a recessed bottom and a drainage plug . This ensures that the water drains quickly. It also makes it relatively easy to clean the inside of the pet crate.

The sheer difficulty of carrying these crates and safely tying them on surfaces. Gunner has integrated built-in tie-down pins and super strong carry handles to make the process easier. That’s not all; the G1 dog crate has a wider base and a non-slip bottom.

So, this heavy-duty travel crate stays sturdy and stable, whether you carry it on the back or inside the car. The overall ergonomic shape has a significant role in that.

Additionally, this is a dependable air travel crate too.

That’s not all; Gunner G1 is made in America , 100%. That’s probably why they’re confident enough to give a lifetime warranty.

This kennel comes in five attractive colors and is the hallmark of the highest-quality travel kennels. It’s my favorite dog crate simply due to its superior features.

Want to learn more about this dog crate? Checkout this review .

Dakota283 features a series of secure dog crates bespoke for car travel.

These are the G3 kennel, the original Kennebec kennel, the T1 low profile kennel, the 2D side entry kennel, and the Dakota hero kennel.

While these are unique products, the G3 kennel can be identified as common.

So, what makes this dog crate car travel-friendly?

The smallest G3 dog crate size is 23L x 16W x 18.75H, weighing 20.2 lbs. The largest size is 38.5L x 25.5W x 29.5H, which weighs 59 lbs.

You’ll also notice how the T1 low-profile kennel is shorter and longer. On the flip side, the 2D side entry and Hero kennel are thinner and taller.

So, there’s a great size range.

The easy grip handle definitely helps you position the crate well. You won’t know how useful it is until you have to move a container with a dog inside.

The covered or walled nature of the crate is an admirable similarity to the Gunner G1 kennel. This provides ample protection and a sense of safety when dogs are inside.

To increase that safety and security, the G3 kennels come with amazing mesh windows/ screen doors. This is a keyed paddle latching door , so dealing with it is easier.

The G3 series comes in eight colors in a diverse color palette. The hero and T1 low-profile kennel come in two earth-tone colors.

It’s normal for dogs to have accidents inside their cage during long car travels. But it’s unpleasant to both you and your pet to let things be. Dakota283 understood the risk, and that’s why you get an easy-to-clean drain hole.

That’s a tell-tale sign of a hassle-free crate.

You can also get a recess for crate stacking , which is sold separately. This is most useful when you have multiple crates (multiple pets) inside Dakota283 cages.

It’s relieving that Dakota283 crates are molded and assembled in the USA. Because of that, you’re also entitled to free shipping to the continental US.

This crate can be kept inside or outside your car and is the best alternative for the Gunner G1 crate.

The Gen7Pets Commuter Pet Carrier is an entirely different product from the Gunner G1 and the first alternative solution.

But let’s see if you find this pet carrier better.

The Gen7Pets pet carrier comes in one size and only in black . But it’s always better to have pet carriers/crates in darker colors, and that original look lasts longer.

The downside is the lack of size range.

But if your dog fits the size of an 18″ L x 11″ W x 11″ H enclosure, that shouldn’t be an issue. After all, the company recommends their pet carrier for small dogs and cats weighing up to 20 lbs.

At a weight of 4.41 lbs, the Gen7Pets pet carries are quite lightweight.

Multiple carry straps compliment this lightweight nature. There are short and long (padded shoulder strap) ones for all situations. So you never have to worry about carrying it uncomfortably.

This is not a rotomolded or metallic crate; the Gen7Pets pet carrier is entirely made of nylon fabric.

But despite the fabric made, another great reason why this pet carrier becomes the second best alternative is that it meets Federal Motor Safety Standards 213 , tested and approved.

It’s obvious that it doesn’t provide security and safety remotely close to Gunner G1, but it’s still standardized.

Like Gunner G1 and Dakota283 crates, you can keep this outside or inside the car. This pet carrier is compatible with most car seat belts , and that’s an admirable plus point.

Your pet also gets comfortable two-way access points at the two ends of the pet carrier. At times, it’s more comfortable for you than for your pet to have multiple entrances.

But it would help if you also were mindful about that extra entrance as it can be a risky exit.

Luckily, Gen7Pets is a USA-based brand , although they do not announce that these carriers are explicitly made in the USA. It also would have been nicer to have a warranty too.

But all things considered, the Gen7Pet pet carrier could potentially be the right dog crate for you.

At first glance, you’d notice how similar this looks to the Gunner G1 kennel. It’s another sign that Ruff Land Kennels were inspired by the best.

Let’s see what makes these kennels car-travel-friendly for dogs.

Similar to the Dakota283 product line, a set of crates is made for the secure containment of dogs.

Coming in six sizes , the smallest crate is 16″ wide at the widest point, 15″ tall, and 22 ¼” inches in length. The largest crate is as long as 40 3/8″, 22″ wide at the widest point, and 29 7/8″ inches tall.

In other words, various dog breeds of different sizes can conveniently be contained in these cages during car travels.

That spacious comfort is complemented by the Ruff™ flex technology in the kennels’ walls, top, and floor. It can be helpful for bumpy car rides as this built-in flexibility can absorb energy that would be transferred to your dog.

Ruff Land Kennels continues to escalate the comfort factor during car travels with the SureVent™ tapered wall design too. This vent hole series ensures that your dog experiences ideal air circulation throughout the journey.

But there’s another specialty of the SureVent™ technology; the walls are tapered , so the vent holes never get plugged. This ensures the risk is eliminated even if you slide the kennel up against a wall.

How amazing!

These crates also have a no-bite grid pattern to ensure your dog doesn’t bite the mesh door. This feature increases the overall lifespan of the crate by design.

That’s not the only specialty of this door that makes these crates so car-travel-friendly; this is a two-way or ambidextrous door that can be adjusted to swing either way.

While the safety and comfort factor is superior, so is the hygiene factor. In fact, these Ruff Land Kennels come with a UpSide™ raised floor interior to ensure that debris and liquids that fall are channeled away from your dog.

The icing on the cake is the Rattle-less design feature that ensures the crate rattles comparatively least by design. You know how annoying it is when cages rattle.

In conclusion, you can definitely rely on these made-in-US Ruff Land Kennels as one of the best dog travel crates.

Click here to learn more about this kennel .

If you still haven’t found the best travel crate for your dog, you might like Petmate’s Sky Pet Kennel.

Similar to the Rufflandkennels, the Sky Kennels also come in one color ; light grey. But it looks dark enough, so you are safe there.

With six sizes from 21″ to 48″ in length, Petmate allows many dog sizes/breeds to travel in cars comfortably with its size range.

This USA-made spacious dog travel crate is made with 90% pre-consumer recycled plastic content.

While it is very environmentally friendly, the strength factor is considerably high too. I admire how this heavy-duty plastic construction comes with non-corrosive plastic wing nuts.

Some of these features automatically make this crate suitable for air travel, similar to the Gunner G1 kennel.

Thanks to the four-way ventilation system , your dog can breathe effortlessly inside the Petmate Sky dog travel crate. The door comes with a chew-proof mesh design , a dial latch system , and a 3-way locking vault door too.

In other words, just as much as your dog gets enough air, it will always be inside the cage.

Additionally, the interior moat makes it super easy to keep animals dry. So, even if it doesn’t have a raised floor or a drainage plug, it does bring something similar to the table.

To make carrying easier, Petmate has included a handle , but it’s only available for sizes 21″ and 28″ inches, making it a bit of a letdown. It would also have been amazing if Petmate had given a warranty.

Remember that Petmate’s Sky Kennels can be bought with a Norton shopping guarantee to protect your purchase.

As another alternative, the Petmate Sky Kennel is one of the safest dog crates recommendable for pet owners.

MIM Variocage is another one of the great dog car crates by design.

This dog cage comes in a completely unique shape. Made from carbon fiber , the MIM company boasts that it is the only tested crate in the market for car crashes.

That’s a bit misleading, given how Gunner G1 has undergone several crash tests more than the Variocage.

But it’s fascinating how the cage’s length is adjustable . There’s a convenient slider on the bottom of the cage for that — it’s that easy. This design is complimented by the crumple zone that helps absorb shock better.

You never have to worry about ventilation or ideal lighting since this is a carbon fiber wire crate of sorts. However, you might need to cover it when required.

The door of the Variocage is impressive.

It comes with a single-flick latch and a key lock system . The placement of the lock and the gas hydraulic motion strings ensure that there’s no way that even the best escape artists can escape this MIM product.

You can buy the MIM Variocage in six sizes and one standard color .

The smallest cage is 38.97 “L x 21.85 “W x 23.22 “H, and the largest is 41.73 “L x 27.55” W x 30.71 “H. So, the space factor is effortlessly in favor of your furry friend.

But thanks to the different shapes it can take, you can technically have up to 18 sizes.

Did I tell you that this crate comes with an emergency escape hatch ?

This dual-entry system skyrockets the safety of your dog at any time. In confined spaces like inside cars, these dual doors can be helpful. But pet parents must be attentive as it poses a danger and is another exit point.

You can conveniently keep the MIM Variocage on your car trunk or in front . But it would have been better if its build quality made fixing the crate to the vehicle easier.

Yet, it’s one of the best dog crates dog owners can count on.

Diggs is a brand that focuses on elevating the well-being of your furry friends. Their passenger travel carrier is another alternative.

Unlike the last few crates, this comes in one dark color and three lighter colors . However, this carrier is only available in one size .

The unique style factor of the Diggs passenger travel carrier is sky-high. You could use this for travel and take it to a five-star hotel, by plane, train, or even by foot all the same.

That should hint to you about the dog sizes the carrier can handle.

It’s small to medium dogs AND cats up to 18 lbs.

To be more specific about the dimensions, it has external dimensions of 20 “L x 10.8 “W x 11.5 “H and internal dimensions of 18 “L x 10” W x 10.75 “H while weighing 4.5 lbs.

In other words, these are fabric-based soft-sided crates.

But you’d be surprised to hear that the Diggs passenger travel carrier for dogs is one of the crash-tested dog crates . In fact, this particular dog carrier has a five-star rating, which is the highest attainable.

After all, you get custom seat belt clips and a buckle strap to keep your pet safe.

Any pet parent will use the cross-body strap just as much as the D-ring clip for your keys and the collar tether clip to secure your pet when the carrier is open.

Remember that this is a crate with multiple openings . While it is advantageous in car travel, you must ensure the secondary exits are 100% secure.

With enough ventilation and privacy , and a bed and pee included , the Diggs passenger travel carrier is one of the best dog crates.

Next, I will talk about another fabric-based soft-sided dog crate; the K&H carrier for pets.

This tent-like dog crate comes in three sizes , whose smallest has dimensions of 17″ x 16″ x 15″, and the largest is 29.5″ x 22″ x 22.5. In fact, K&H recommends the crate for dogs weighing up to 40 pounds.

But remember that it comes in only one color.

Nonetheless, your dog will get the utmost sense of security as it comes with double mesh sides , making it easier to see.

That indirectly means that it is always better to keep this dog crate inside the car. But don’t worry! K&H carrier has straps looped around the headrest and straps for any car seat.

Just as much as the comfortable space factor, your dog will love the comfort pad on the bottom . Cleaning it is easier as you can easily remove it.

Having multiple entries by design is another admirable feature. Once again, ensure all other entries are perfectly enclosed before you start driving.

This soft crate has strong enough fixed curved wires to maintain its shape . When you don’t want it, you can fold it flat . Nonetheless, note that this carrier can hold only well-tamed dogs.

You can’t secure just about any dog like the Gunner G1 as the K&H carrier is made of fabric not as strong as a double-walled rotomolded design.

The verdict? It’s a dependable carrier, but you should understand the conditions it works the best in.

The last resort of this list is the Petmate Aspen dog kennel. Let’s see why it made it to this list.

Coming in four sizes , this solid dog crate fits dogs between 25-90 lbs, which is an impressive weight range. The best thing is that even cats could fit in this crate.

Since it’s not fabric made, there’s no risk of collapsibility. On top of that, the mesh door’s wire design doesn’t have a lot of space between openings.

This makes it impossible for dogs to chew and damage the door.

The dog crate is made by connecting the top and bottom parts with nuts . The top part has ventilation all over, so your dog will be more than comfortable inside. The Aspen dog kennel’s interior shape satisfies natural denning instincts too.

But it would have been amazing if the crate had carry handles, as it doesn’t fold flat.

Pet parents should know that this crate doesn’t come assembled . But don’t worry; it doesn’t take that much effort or expertise to get it up.

I also think it would have been better if this dog crate had some sort of warranty.

In conclusion, this durable plastic crate, with an easy-open latch, is my best last recommendation for a car-travel-friendly crate.

With that, my top 9 list of best dog crates comes to an end. Next, let’s look at all the must-know information regarding dog crates.

Features to Look for in Dog Crates for Car Travel

While there are so many features to look for in a car travel dog crate, the following points cover all of them. Let’s look at it one by one.

Prioritize a dog crate that provides enough space for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

This is why you should know the space inside the car and the dog’s measurements. Opt for a bigger dog crate since the dog’s potential growth from puppyhood is faster than you think.

You shouldn’t underestimate the rigors of car travel. Some dog crates , like Gunner G1, are made to sustain all damages in car travel.

If not for the best, even the wire or plastic alternatives should still be strong enough and built with lasting materials.

Car travel can get messy, so it’s best to get a bottom-covered/fully-covered dog crate or a crate with removable trays or pans.

Remember that dog crates with stain-resistant or odor-resistant materials can keep unpleasant smells at bay.

Adequate ventilation is crucial to keep your dog comfortable during vehicle rides. Look for dog crates with proper ventilation options, such as mesh panels or ventilation holes.

Don’t compromise overall quality simply due to higher ventilation by wire dog crates .

Choose dog crates with secure locks, preferably with more than one, to prevent accidental openings while the vehicle is in motion.

Crash-tested designs with built-in restraints or even non-slip rubber grip feet can skyrocket the overall travel experience.

Next, let me tell you why you should use dog crates when traveling by car (with a dog, of course).

Having a crate while traveling with your dog in the car brings you many benefits, and I’ll get to that in the next subtopic.

But why should pet owners use a crate, specifically?

It’s mainly to dedicate a space to your dog during the trip. The specialty is that your dog’s movement will be limited to this area.

And there are so many benefits of having this dedicated space/crate for your dog while traveling by car. Let’s talk about them next.

Here are the ten most valuable benefits of investing in a travel friendly dog crate:

Enhanced safety for your dog during car rides.
Reduction of potential distractions for the driver.
Prevention of injuries during sudden stops or accidents.
Alleviation of anxiety and motion sickness in dogs.
Protection of your car’s interior from potential damage.
Compliance with legal requirements for pet transportation.
Creation of familiar and secure space for your dog.
Promotion of a calm and controlled travel environment.
Facilitation of easier management of your dog’s behavior.
Versatility for indoor confinement or training processes.

There are so many more, but I could summarize all of it as it’s worth it .

Now, where do you have the crate? Let’s talk about that next.

Where to Put Travel Dog Crates in the Vehicle?

Picking the place depends on a few factors. Here are a few options to consider,

This is a great place for SUVs, hatchbacks, or even station wagons, but you must secure the crate to prevent it from sliding or tipping during the journey.

In the case of the absence of a cargo area, you can keep the dog cage on the backseat as long as it is securely fastened using seat belts or specialized attachments designed for dog crates.

Some vehicles have a rear bench seat, and it’s a great alternative place too. Just make sure that there’s enough visibility at all times.

Placing the dog cage on the middle seat gives the best visibility and closer proximity to passengers, allowing easier monitoring and interaction with the dog. This could also be the child car seat, especially for small dogs.

If you’re traveling only with your dog, keeping them in the front seat will make them feel more comfortable. With better visibility, you don’t have to keep looking back, either.

But I suggest NOT placing the dog crate in the passenger footwell, protruding into the aisle, or blocking airbags. It’ll be a peaceful ride if you follow these instructions.

I know there are long guidelines for travel with a dog crate, but let me make it easier for you.

As long as you follow these four tips, it’s ALL you need for a peaceful ride:

Properly acclimate and train your dog to the crate BEFORE traveling to ensure they feel comfortable and secure.
Pack essential supplies such as water, food, treats, and bedding to keep your dog comfortable and meet their needs throughout the trip.
Prioritizing regular exercise and bathroom breaks to allow your dog to stretch their legs, relieve themselves, and feel restlessness during the journey.
Maintain a comfortable temperature, and ensure proper ventilation in the vehicle to keep your dog safe and prevent them from becoming too hot or cold.

That’s it — follow these, and everything should be fine.

Center for Pet Safety ( CPS ) is an independent organization that conducts crash tests for pet products. In this context, car travel crates.

What’s special or standardized about them?

They use the test condition ECE R-17 which is a European test standard developed to assess the strength of seats, their anchorages, and head restraint.

So, CPS certifies products that meet rigorous standards and publishes the results on its website.

That’s the level of transparency CPS maintains.

All you need to worry about are four parameters such as length, height, width, and weight.

For starters, measure from the dog’s nose tip to the tail’s base, and add a few inches, and that’s the length.

When you measure from the top of your dog’s head/highest point of their ears to the ground and add a few inches, that’s the crate height.

Measure the widest part of your dog’s body, typically around their chest or shoulders, and again, add a few inches, and that’s the crate width.

Although the standard measurements are done, check your dog’s weight for a better choice of sizes.

If you are still confused about measuring the size of your dog for a crate, checkout this article for better understanding .

While there are several dog car crate types, let me list down some of the most common types.

Rotomolded crates
Soft-sided/ fabric crates
Plastic crates
Metallic (fully) or wire crates
Vari-kennels
Custom or build-in crates (to your car)

Out of these, you should prioritize the rotomolded and the metallic crates as they last the longest and are the safest.

Having a travel-friendly crate for a family with a dog is an investment. Some of the best crates are designed to fit not only as a car crate. They can also be your everyday, outdoor, and even airplane-approved crate.

The Gunner G1 is such a legendary car crate . As I told you, it’s the best dog car crate by design. Buy that, and you’ll never have to worry about any travel issues with your dog.

I hope this review was helpful to you. See you in another!

No; not all dog crates for cars are crash tested and if one is, the manufacturer will typically advertise it to increase its value.

No, it is not safe to put a dog crate in the trunk with the dog in it. The trunk does not provide ventilation or a sense of security for the dog.

The Gunner G1 is considered the best car dog crate for travel, with its certified safety and durability.

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Best Dog Crates for Car Travel of 2024

Taking your pup on a road trip can be a fun experience but only if you have one of the safest dog crates for car travel. Even if you’re not traveling cross-country, a crash-tested carrier is one of the most important purchases to keep them safe for long-haul car trips and even a quick jaunt to the vet.

We selected crates and carriers that are crash-tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS), a nonprofit that evaluates the safety of pet travel products. To aid in our selection, we also enlisted the guidance of a dog trainer who helped inform us about the importance of pet safety when traveling in a vehicle. Our list of the best dog crates for car travel has something to make every dog’s next road trip a success.

Table of Contents

Best Dog Crates for Car Travel
Things To Consider When Buying
How We Chose

Gunner G1 Kennel »

Crash-tested and certified by CPS

Double-walled

Available in four sizes

Proven to protect pets in serious accidents

Tie-down straps sold separately

Not chew-proof

When traveling with your pet, keeping them safe in the car is the biggest priority. While there are plenty of travel crates on the market, the most effective are crash-tested and certified by CPS. This nonprofit evaluates the safety claims of pet travel products. Passing crash tests is no small feat, and only a handful of products receive the CPS’s seal of approval. One of those products is the Gunner G1 Kennel.

Available in four sizes – though the large size hasn’t been tested and certified by CPS – for puppies to large breeds, the Gunner G1 Kennel has a double-walled design to keep pets safe in an accident. Its double walls also have the added benefit of providing temperature regulation, keeping your pup cool even in hot weather. The crate has built-in pins for tie-down straps to secure the crate in a vehicle, although customers must purchase the straps separately.

Crash-test certification is an excellent feature and something pet parents should prioritize when searching for a travel crate. However, it does come at a cost. The Gunner G1 Kennel is on the higher end of travel crates and one of the most expensive options. Aside from its cost, some users take issue with the crate’s weight, which ranges from 27 pounds for the small kennel to 72 pounds for the large kennel. Sturdiness and durability are important in a travel crate, so we don’t necessarily consider this to be a con. However, a heavy crate can be an inconvenience.

Sleepypod Atom »

More affordable option

Features top and side entries

Available in six colors

Not as much ventilation

Only suitable for pets up to 12 pounds

A budget dog crate for car travel is hard to come by, especially if you’re looking for a crash-tested and certified model, but the Sleepypod Atom is one of the safest options that doesn’t cost a few hundred dollars. This carrier features comfortable bedding for your pet to relax in, is suitable for the back seat of a car, and fits under the seats of most airplanes. The Atom also sports top and side entry points to make getting in and out a breeze for your pet. Plus, like all Sleepypod carriers, the Atom is available in various colors.

A downside of this crate is that it isn’t suitable for larger pets. With a weight limit of 12 pounds, only toy breeds can take advantage of this carrier. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t find a great car restraint for larger pets with a smaller budget. Sleepypod also makes one of the best car seat belts to keep large dogs safe and comfortable in a vehicle.

Sleepypod Mini »

Suitable for puppies and kittens up to 7 pounds

Doubles as a bed

Can fit under airplane seat

Available in nine colors

Some users had sizing issues

Zipper that connects cover to bed can be flimsy

The correct size of travel crate is essential for keeping your pet safe during transit, says Nicole Ellis, a professional dog trainer and pet lifestyle expert for rover.com. When traveling, a dog should touch three of the four walls of the crate or carrier to minimize the chance of movement during a collision. Getting a tiny crate that fits a puppy properly can be challenging, but the Sleepypod Mini is ideal for pint-sized pups with a weight capacity of 7 pounds. Beyond being crash-tested and certified by the CPS, this carrier can be used with cats and allows you to carry your furry friend with you on an airplane. (However, always check individual airline recommendations before flying with your pet.)

Regardless of how you’re traveling, this carrier will keep your pet cozy, comfortable, and safe. The included bed can be used as your pup’s primary sleeping place when not jet-setting around the world, which may help acclimate your puppy to being contained in a small carrier during travel times.

While the Sleepypod Mini suits most teacup pups, some users struggled to get the correct fit, as Sleepypod also makes the Mobile Pet Bed, a medium-sized equivalent of the Mini. We recommend measuring before purchasing to ensure you get the right fit for your four-legged friend.

Away The Pet Carrier »

Compact but safe for smaller pups

Clip to secure your pet within carrier

Airline-approved

Removable bedding

Only suitable for pets up to 18 pounds

Not as soft as some soft-sided carriers

Small breeds can be easier to travel with because they don’t take up as much space, but the travel is only simple if you have the right gear. The Pet Carrier by luggage brand Away is the ideal soft-sided crate for transporting small dogs in a car. Its features include top and side entry points for your animal, removable bedding for comfort, a retractable mesh privacy screen, and a collar clip to keep your pup from springing out of the carrier when opened. It also has a firm bottom, which stops the carrier from folding during transit – a feature Ellis says is important to prevent your dog from sliding around in the crate.

Car travel is a breeze with this carrier: Just secure it to your vehicle’s back seat via a belt around the headrest. Traveling by air with your pet? This carrier can sit snugly on top of your luggage , securing to the handle of any Away suitcase via a trolley sleeve. (For travelers who do take their pups on planes, note that while the material is soft, some users found it wasn't flexible enough to fit under every airline seat.) The downside of this carrier is that it’s only suitable for small breeds weighing less than 18 pounds, so medium and large pets are out of luck.

Lucky Duck Lucky Kennel »

Suitable for pets up to 110 pounds (large size)

Drainage holes for easy cleanup

Lightweight

Bed pad sold separately

Finding a dog crate for car travel that suits big breeds can be tough, but Lucky Duck makes one of our favorite kennels ideal for medium to large dogs. With a capacity to hold pups as big as 110 pounds, the large version of the Lucky Kennel can keep up with large dogs without weighing you down. Unlike most crash-tested travel crates, this kennel is lightweight at only 45 pounds, making it much more accessible to lift in and out of a vehicle. Another nice feature is its drainage and ventilation holes. The drainage holes are excellent to have in the event of a potty accident, as any liquid in the kennel is directed to the drainage holes via the slightly pitched floor of the crate .

The drain holes are a nice plus, but they make it difficult to place a bed within the crate. As such, Lucky Dog offers its own bed to fit inside – a nice-to-have feature to ensure your pup’s comfort during travel. However, if you want to purchase the bed pad for your dog, you’ll have to do so separately. Lucky Dog also requires the separate purchase of ratchet straps – a type of restraint that keeps the crate tied down to a vehicle – instead of providing them with the kennel. Remember this when purchasing this crate because Lucky Dog kennels are only crash-tested and certified by the CPS in combination with these tie-down straps.

Paravel Cabana Pet Carrier »

Smaller footprint than most carriers

Folds flat for easy storage

Made from recycled materials

Only fits pets up to 20 pounds

Some users found shoulder strap held up poorly

The best dog carriers for small cars won’t take up too much space in the back seat of a vehicle, and the Paravel Cabana Pet Carrier fits the bill. At just 11 inches long, this soft-sided carrier can easily fit within the back seat of any small car. It’s also less than 1 foot high, easily letting you see over the top of the carrier. However, the small footprint won’t squeeze your pet.

The Cabana Pet Carrier is more than 20 inches wide, which makes it easily able to hold pups up to 20 pounds. Another handy space-saving element of this carrier is its ability to fold completely flat so that when your pet isn’t in the vehicle with you, the back seat can be reclaimed for passengers or cargo.

While this crash-tested and certified carrier is a safe, space-saving option for small cars, a few users found it wasn’t the best option as a shoulder bag, as the shoulder strap broke for some buyers.

Cabela's GunDog Intermediate Dog Kennel »

Tie-down strap kit and safety bar included

Nonslip rubber feet

Only one size

No included crate pad

When using a crash-tested crate in a large vehicle such as an SUV, it’s important to tie it down using straps or bolts to ensure the kennel doesn’t shift during transit. However, most crate manufacturers don’t include these tie-down straps with the purchase of a kennel, and these can often pack on an additional hundred dollars to an already expensive purchase. The Cabela’s GunDog Intermediate Dog Kennel is an excellent option for those who want the tie-down straps included to keep their pup safe in the back seat or trunk of an extra-large vehicle. The included tie-down strap kit can secure this crash-tested crate to most large cars, and the rubber feet offer additional nonslip reinforcement for more stability.

The kennel allows users to choose on which side they want the door to open – a handy feature to ensure ease of use. The downside of this crate is that it’s only available in one size, leaving few options for dogs between a medium and large size. It also comes as is, meaning no crate pad or bedding is included for your pup.

The Bottom Line

Choosing the best dog crate for car travel is a weighty decision, and you should always keep your pet’s safety top of mind. The good news is there are many excellent crates and carriers available that are crash-tested and certified, providing your pup with a safe and comfortable place during a road trip.

Our best overall pick is the Gunner G1 Kennel, which has some of the best features we’ve seen on a travel crate. Its double-walled design reinforces the kennel's safety while keeping your dog cool on hot days. It also has one of the most diverse size ranges available for crash-tested crates, making it suitable for small pups and large breeds alike.

Things To Consider When Buying Dog Crates for Car Travel

Safety Certifications: The best dog crates for car travel are crash-tested by the CPS. The pet industry has few regulations for travel products, and some brands may make unjustified safety claims. Even with products certified by the CPS, remember that certifications vary, and a product may not be approved for use with dogs weighing more than a certain amount or without additions such as tie-down straps.

Size and Weight Capacity: Choosing the correct size kennel is vital for keeping your dog safe during travel, whether traveling with your pet in a car or on a plane. There’s no one-size-fits-all crate, so remember to measure your pet and follow the measurement and weight guidelines provided by the manufacturer to achieve a good fit.

Ellis says that while we might have an instinct to buy a bigger crate to give our pups more space to lounge, it’s important to hold off on this impulse. “[O]ur dogs should be snug. So when thinking of a [crash-tested crate], our dog should really be touching three of the four walls [when they] lay down,” she says. Ellis also encourages pet parents to avoid extra space within a crate because that’s where the dog will move during a collision.

Material: Each dog kennel is constructed differently, but there are some materials to look for when considering dog crates for travel. Ellis likes soft-sided carriers with a firm bottom that ensures a pet stays stable during transport. She also says that ballistic nylon – a material that’s resistant to water and chew damage – is great.

Hard crates tend to be made of materials like rubber or rotomolded walls. Rotomolding is a type of plastic construction, and its benefits include being durable and thick enough to withstand excessive force, such as the type that would be exerted in a car accident.

While crash-tested crates vary in material, Ellis notes that one material pet parents should avoid is wire, specifically in wire-style crates. These crates are acceptable for at-home use but not for travel. Ellis says a wire crate may break into small pieces and impale your pet in the event of a collision.

Vehicle Compatibility: Most crash-tested crates suitable for car travel can be used in any vehicle. However, measure the back seat of your car to ensure that the crate will fit. Some crates intended for larger dogs may not fit in the back seat as easily as smaller soft-sided carriers. These crates may instead be used in the trunk of a vehicle, although they usually require tie-down straps to keep them in place. Ellis says it’s important to check your specific vehicle’s attachment points if you opt for a crate that requires latching in that way.

It’s also vital to remember that while a crate may sit in a vehicle's back seat, trunk, or bed, it should never be placed in the front seat. Ellis says regardless of what crate or carrier your pup is in, your dog can still be injured by an airbag if traveling in the front seat of a car.

How We Chose the Best Dog Dog Crates for Car Travel

At U.S News 360 Reviews, our editors and contributing writers evaluate products based on research, expert guidance, and our own experience as professional product reviewers. Our contributing writer consulted the CPS’s list of crash-tested and certified dog crates and carriers to find the best options for dogs big and small. We also consulted Nicole Ellis , a certified professional dog trainer and pet lifestyle expert with rover.com to understand how to keep pets safe during car travel.

WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?

Sophia Carlisle , the author of this piece, has covered pet products for Business Insider as a fellow and, prior to that, fostered dogs and cats for years. She has tested dozens of dog products with her rescue pit mix Lyla, including harnesses, food, and leashes. For U.S. News 360 Reviews, Sophia has covered some of the best products for pups, such as the best dog harnesses and slow feeder dog bowls .

The most important safety feature of a dog crate for car travel is that it’s crash-tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS). Other safety features to watch for include crates and carriers with tie-down straps. Some crates for large dogs are only certified by the CPS with tie-down straps, which help to keep a large crate stable during transit.

Regardless of which CPS-certified crate you choose, Ellis, a certified professional dog trainer, says it’s always essential to restrain your pet in a vehicle. Even the most well-trained dog can cause a distraction, leap out of an open window, or become a projectile in the event of an accident, so keeping them secure during travel is necessary.

If a crate or carrier passes crash safety standards set by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS), it receives a rating between 1 Star and 5 Star. The very best dog crates for car travel receive a 5 Star safety rating.

If a brand or product claims to be certified by the CPS, check directly on the website to ensure it has passed crash testing. Some products have undergone crash testing but have failed or had their certification revoked. If a crate or carrier isn’t crash-test certified by the CPS, it’s unsafe to use with your pet for car travel.

Finding the correct size crate for your dog can be tricky, so take careful measurements of your pup and compare them with the weight and length measurements provided by the brand. Ellis, a pet lifestyle expert with rover.com, says that dogs should fit snugly inside their crates, so avoid opting for a larger size than your dog needs.

Compatibility with your vehicle is also important to consider when selecting the best travel crate for your pup. Ellis says it’s best to place the crate in the trunk or back seat of the car. Ensure you check whether or not the crate requires tie-down straps and if those straps can be attached to the latch points in your vehicle.

About Our Team

Sophia Carlisle

Contributor

Kayla Randolph

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.

10 Best Dog Crates for the Car (Reviews Updated 2024)

In our guide, we’ll review the best dog crates for the car, and explain what makes each one unique. Following that, our buyer’s guide will simplify the task of choosing a crate for your car, and inspire you to take that next road trip with confidence.

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Best Dog Crates for the Car

Here are our reviews of the best dog crates for the car.

1. MidWest Homes for Pets Dog Crate

The MidWest Homes for Pets Dog Crate is a foldable metal crate that can be used on car seats or in a cargo area. Heavy-duty slide bolt latch keeps your dog safely and securely confined. It folds flat in seconds without tools, once the journey is over.

Available in single or double door models
Comes in seven sizes to best fit your needs
Includes crate divider to keep it appropriately sized for the dog’s life stage

2. AmazonBasics Folding Metal Dog Crate

Amazonbasics Single Door & Double Door Folding Metal Dog Crate

The AmazonBasics Folding Metal Dog Crate is a folding metal wire crate that can be used to safely transport your dog anywhere you go. Double slide-bolt latches keep the door locked and adds stability. Once you reach your destination, the crate folds flat and has a handle for easy transport.

Composite floor pan to contain any messes or accidents
Comes in a single or double door design
Available in six sizes to fit your dog and vehicle

3. Petnation Port-A-Crate

Petnation Port A Crate Indoor And Outdoor Home For Pets

The Petnation Port-A-Crate is a lightweight soft crate that works great for transporting your dog. It is made from a tight-weave mesh over a folding steel frame. Available in four sizes, it is a great option for crate trained dogs up to 70 pounds.

Honeycomb mesh windows allow optimal ventilation
The two-door style allows access from the front or the top
The cover is fully machine washable

4. EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate

Elitefield 3 Door Folding Soft Dog Crate, Indoor & Outdoor Pet Home

The EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate is a versatile soft crate that is great for traveling. Constructed from a durable 600D fabric over a steel tube frame, it is designed to last. Once the trip is over, the bag is easily carried by either the hand carrying straps or padded shoulder strap.

Includes a free carrying bag and fleece crate bed
Folds flat to just 3” thick for easy storage
Three mesh doors provide ultimate ventilation and visibility

5. Noz2Noz Soft-Krater

Noz2noz Soft Krater Indoor And Outdoor Crate For Pets

The Noz2Noz Soft-Krater is a heavy-duty soft crate that stands up to the rigors of travel. It is made from a mesh weave fabric over a steel frame. Sets up and collapses in seconds with the push-button operation.

Available in five sizes
Cover can be removed for easy cleaning and is machine washable
Rounded corners won’t harm auto interiors

6. Petmate Sky Kennel

Petmate Navigator Pet Carrier With Antimicrobial Protection,

The Petmate Sky Kennel is a super sturdy plastic hard crate that is perfect for traveling. The design is fully compliant with highway travel recommendations, so you can have confidence in its performance. The extra strong wire door ensures your dog stays safely confined.

Available in six sizes to make sure all dogs have the chance to stay safe
Vault door and wire vents provide 360-degree visibility and ventilation
Satisfies your dog’s natural urge to den, making them feel extra secure while traveling

7. Aivituvin Soft-Sided Pet Travel Carrier

Soft Sided Pet Travel Carrier, Airline Approved Dog Cat Carrier For Medium Puppy And Cats

The Aivituvin Soft-Sided Pet Travel Carrier is a great travel crate for dogs under 20 pounds. It is designed to provide comfortable ventilation on all sides. It includes a fleece crate mat that can be machine washed.

Super lightweight design
Folds down for simple storage
Shoulder carrying strap

8. Petmate Two Door Top Load

The Petmate Two Door Top Load is a sturdy plastic travel crate designed for small dogs. It has grated steel doors that provide solid security for your dog. The 360-degree vented sides provide great airflow and visibility.

Easy squeeze latches to easily secure your pet
Unique top loading door makes loading and unloading your dog easy
Comes in four color options

9. SportPet Designs Travel Dog Crate

Sportpet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate

The SportPet Designs Travel Dog Crate is a durable and versatile dog crate for travel. Openings on all sides provide optimal ventilation. Top handles and removable wheels make moving the crate to and from your vehicle easy.

Includes live animal stickers, food and water bowls, and metal nuts and bolts
Six sizes available for dogs of all sizes
Removable wheels to help ease movement when not traveling

10. Impact Collapsible Aluminum Dog Crate

Impact Collapsible, Durable Aluminum Dog Crate

The Impact Collapsible Aluminum Dog Crate is a heavy-duty aluminum travel crate. Super durable, it is constructed from powder-coated .063 aluminum. The crush-proof corners and welded rivets add to the ultra high strength design.

Available in four sizes for dogs up to 100 pounds
Ultimate flow-through ventilation on all four sides
No need to lock the door behind your dog with the unique “slam-latch”

Car Dog Crate Buyer’s Guide

Two things you’ll want to consider when choosing a dog crate for the car are whether you want a soft or hard crate, and what sizes that crate is available in.’

One difference between a soft and a hard crate is going to be the ease of cleaning it. With most soft crates, you can simply take off the fabric cover and throw it in the laundry, essentially making cleaning a one-step process. With hard crates, you’ll either need to remove the floor pan and wash it or take the top half off of the crate and wash the bottom out and dry it manually. Another difference is going to be safety. In the event of an accident or collision, a hard crate is going to provide an extra layer of rigid protection for the dog, whereas a soft crate is going to deform much more easily, and will not offer much in the way of protection.

Dog Crates for the Car Review Conclusion

We hope our guide has helped you to be able to make a more educated decision regarding what you need in a crate and simplified the task of choosing a dog crate for your car. As long as you take into account the size of the dog, and whether you prefer the crate to be hard or soft, you can choose the best crate for your car.

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Best Dog Crates For Cars: Protect Your Dog With These Crates & Carriers

Are you considering a new dog crate or carrier to keep your dog safe on road trips? Or maybe you need a secure carrier for air travel? Check out our favorite options and compare brands by analyzing safety, durability, cost, travel type, and more.

Last Updated: April 10, 2024 | 14 min read | 2 Comments

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Are you looking for the best dog crate for your car? There are many options in every price range to help protect your furry friend. Whether traveling, moving, or taking a 20-minute trip to the dog park, driving with your dog in the car can sometimes be a bit of a hassle. It may be fun to allow your dog to roam freely about the interior of your car. But that doesn’t mean it’s safe.

There are even crash-tested dog crates you can get for your vehicle. Unfortunately, crash-test-approved crates are often more expensive and outside of many pet parents’ budgets . However, investing in a crate or carrier to keep your dog safe on the road is something dog owners should consider. This is especially true if you take frequent road trips or dog park visits.

Ultimately, your dog crate purchase is up to you . You know what your dog’s needs are and what can fit inside your vehicle and budget best. Our buying guide helps you choose the best car dog crate for your favorite canine.

At A Glance: Our Favorite Car Carriers & Crates

Carlson Collapsible Wire Crate

Crash-Tested

VarioCage Dog Crate

Great For Small Dogs

Sleepypod Mobile Carrier

Table of Contents

The Benefits Of Using A Car Crate

It might be fun to see how happy your pup gets with his head hanging out of an open car window. There are many reasons you should actually be using a crate in your car instead. Getting in any collision can be difficult enough for a human that’s fully buckled into their seat. It’s even more dangerous for a dog that’s been allowed to wander about the car unrestrained.

There are also benefits outside of safety that you’ll get by using a carrier or crate in your car. Some of these may or may not apply to you based on the size of your dog. Let’s take a look at how a crate can be beneficial when driving around town with your furry friend.

Anyone who owns a dog knows how quickly your personal items can be ruined in their presence. The same goes for your car. Whether it’s intentional bad behavior or accidental, there’s a good chance that your dog will eventually create a mess in your car. They scratch and bite through the fabric of your seats. They can also get into things you’d prefer they leave alone.

Additionally, whatever dirt, mud, and mess are on their paws will be all over your car. Dogs also tend to drool over everything . This means you will scrub dried dog spit from your seats after your long drive. Their noses create smudges on your window, and their shedding fur sticks to your upholstery.

There’s also the chance your dog has an accident. Double the possibility if you have a long car ride ahead. Even potty-trained dogs can only hold it for so long. On a long drive, you may not realize how much time has passed since you last stopped to let them out. Without a crate, that accident ends up – you guessed it – right on your seat or floor.

Avoiding Distractions

Some dogs behave perfectly during car rides. They look out the window the whole time or curl into a ball and go to sleep. Other dogs are a bit more rambunctious. In fact, unrestrained pets increase driver stress and distraction on the road.

An active dog in a car jumps back and forth from the front seat to the back. He might try to climb on your lap or get into things that you have with you, like your purse or luggage. When he gets to the back seat, his movement might block your view out of the rear window.

Not only can this be very distracting and uncomfortable, but it poses a safety risk. It would help if you focused on the road, not your adorable puppy. Anyone with you in the car might also prefer your dog keeps his paws to himself. Having a crate keeps everyone calm, comfortable, and distraction-free.

In addition to fewer distractions, crates can protect your dog in an accident. Harnesses are great for keeping your dog in the back seat, but they won’t provide any shelter for your pup should you get into a collision.

If your dog is in a crate, it has a better chance of surviving or avoiding injury during a crash . Your dog won’t be thrown from the vehicle and will stay in one place. Rugged crates made from metal or steel may also save your dog’s life from impact or debris.

Should I Buy A Crash-Tested Dog Crate?

The Center for Pet Safety conducts tests to ensure that certain crates advertised as crash-rated safe are just that. They conduct crash tests on several different types of crates and carriers. Individual pet carrier brands also perform their own crash tests on their products. This helps ensure that pets are safe during any vehicle-related accident.

While there is no way to guarantee that your pet walks away from an accident unharmed, it’s always a good idea to ensure that you put your dog’s safety first . Crash testing is one method to verify that a carrier or crate holds up in a collision. When crash testing, the events of a vehicle crash are simulated, using certain variables to recreate a car crash with dummy pets.

This allows manufacturers and nonprofit organizations to validate what’s considered safe. Unfortunately, these crash-tested dog crates can cost hundreds of dollars or more. This doesn’t always fit in everyone’s budget.

Buyer’s Guide

small white dog in carier in backseat of car

Here are some of the considerations most dog owners consider when buying a crate for their car.

Let’s take a look at the six different decision points that you should consider when buying a crate or carrier to transport your pup . Not all of these apply. But as a general rule, the better you can get at hitting all six objectives, the better prepared and comfortable your pup will be.

We also have more basic everyday dog crates for home use.

Most pet owners would probably agree that they would do anything they could to ensure their dog was happy and comfortable . If this is one of your top priorities for your furry friend, then you should look for a comfortable crate for car rides.

Some crates have hard composite or rubber bottoms with plastic or metal sides. While these features have benefits, they may not be the most comfortable for your pup. Look for a car crate that’s made of polyester or has soft, padded siding.

Many car crates have padded bottoms and soft edges, making them more comfortable for laying down. At the very least, ensure it’s big enough to fit blankets or a bed pad inside to keep your pet cozy.

Anything that a dog comes in contact with is subject to wear and tear, so it’s important for him (and your bank account) that you invest in something that can take a bit of a beating. Soft crates are best used with small or medium dogs, while larger dogs do better in composite, heavy-duty plastic, or metal crates.

Consider how your dog does when he’s caged up. If he’s fussy and not the biggest fan, your crate will take on more scratching, biting, and movement. That being said, it’s probably not the greatest idea to put your fussy pup in a polyester crate.

If your dog doesn’t mind being crated for a long drive, you shouldn’t have an issue with the softer crate. Just be sure to fold it properly when you put it away, clean it regularly, and look it over for tears or rips now and then.

Crate & Carrier Size

The size of your crate is possibly the most important factor to consider. Your dog shouldn’t have any major constraints while in the crate. They should have room to sit, stand, lay down, and turn around completely. If you have an escape artist on your hands, traveling with a crate may be a challenge. You’ll want a heavy-duty crate for your pup at home as well.

This range of movement lets your pup feel safe and comfortable. If they don’t have enough room to do all these movements, they start to stress out and become very sad and possibly aggressive. The proper size also increases the airflow and visibility your dog gets, which helps keep them comfortable and stress-free.

A crate should be at least six inches longer than your dog and six inches taller than their shoulder height. When in doubt, always go with the larger size. If your pup is between medium and large, get the large crate. They’ll always do better with more space than less.

Cleaning & Storage

Dogs tend to create messes wherever they go. You’ll want to get a crate that’s easy to clean. Pay close attention to the descriptions of each crate. Many advertise washable features or removable padding. Look for crates that are labeled as waterproof .

If you want to avoid all kinds of cleaning hassle, look for crates with removable pans . The lack of fabric eliminates all questions of how to wash and clean up after your pup. Plastic or composite bottoms are easy to wipe down.

Safety & Security

To avoid further distractions while driving, you want to make sure you get a quality crate that closes and stays closed – especially if you have an escape artist on your hands. We do not recommend crates with simple, one-latch closures. Excited dogs plus the movements from the car ride can shake these loose, ultimately freeing your dog while you’re cruising down the highway.

Look for crates with two latches or solid zippers. It’s best when these features are out of reach of your pup. Some crates have locking mechanisms. While not always necessary, they can provide an additional level of security.

You should also seek a crate that attaches with a strap to the headrest or seatbelt. These types prevent movement, so your dog doesn’t slide around in the backseat or fall into any gaps.

Bonus: Crash-Tested

Not many crates on the market today are completely crash-tested, but there are a rare few. This simply means that before they went up for sale, these products went through and successfully passed a series of crash tests.

Crash-tested crates give you a much higher level of safety for your pets, and better protection should you find yourself in a collision. They are usually more expensive than those that are not tested, but it’s worth it to keep your dog safe in the worst-case scenarios.

Best Dog Crates For Cars

woman petting large dog in back of car in crate

While many crates have been crash-tested, below are our favorites . These are best for medium to large breeds. If you have an XL breed, Gunner Kennels has a great model, or you may want to research a custom option.

You’ll need to have a larger vehicle, preferably an SUV. Smaller cars lack the space to install a crate. Budget plays a factor, too, and may impact your purchase decision.

Can be used in the car, in the home, and outdoors.
More affordable than crash-tested crates.
Multi-point door locking system.
Folds to become nearly flat.
Bottom pan is removable and easily cleaned.
90-day warranty.
Comes in 3 different sizes.

If budget, size options, cleaning and storage, and security play a factor in your purchase decision, this Carlson Wire Crate is an excellent option. This crate features a multi-point locking system to provide a secure environment for your pup.

The crate is available in three sizes ranging from small to x-large. It can easily fold flat for storage and be transferred in and out of your vehicle effortlessly. While your pet is home with you, you can use this crate indoors.

If your dog has an accident, you can remove the plastic bottom pan and wipe it clean . To make the crate more comfortable for your pup, you can add his favorite blanket as a soft bed.

We love that this crate can serve multiple uses in your car or home. The various size options allow you to choose the best fit for your dog too. The bottom pan makes for easy clean-up if your dog drools in the car, and the wire structure allows him to see, reducing anxiousness.

North America Variocage Dog Cage

Proven safety track record.
Widely used in Europe.
Locking doors with hydraulic springs.
Emergency escape hatch.
Mimic’s vehicle crumple zones.
Protects against rear end collisions.
Meets European crash test standards.

If safety is your main concern, we highly recommend the 4×4 North America Variocage. This tough, durable cage has been tested for front, rear, and roll-over crashes. There is no need to worry about your four-legged friend riding along with its proven performance.

This crate comes in four sizes ranging from small to max, but it is also adjustable to 14 different sizes to fit not only your pup but also your vehicle.

The easy-open handle is designed to let you pop open the cage with ease while still maintaining a secure closure. In addition, the gas hydraulic motion springs keep the door from swinging and damaging your car. A key lock adds to security for your peace of mind.

In the case of an accident, you can utilize the emergency hatch on the back of the crate to release your dog. The bottom houses a rubber carpet made for comfort, ease in cleaning, and quiet; you no longer have to listen to your pup’s nails scratching a composite surface.

We love that this is certified to meet or exceed various front, rear, and roll-over crash test safety standards. There are various size options, and it has durable construction, including a secure, easy-open door and lock. The only drawback is the cost, but can you put a price on your fur baby’s safety?

Gunner Kennels G1 Dog Crate

Crash-tested.
Made in the United States.
Carries a 5-star crash test rating.
Double steel-walled.
Reversible door.
Lifetime warranty.
Comes in 4 different sizes.
Optional all-weather kit.

Gunner Kennels’ crash-tested dog crate is our favorite combination of portability and security. This crash-tested dog crate comes from a crate manufacturer out of Nashville, Tennessee. These crates were created by Founder Addison Edmonds, a hunter who grew tired of replacing plastic crates after heavy use.

Gunner is one of the few brands that actually have customer testimonials directly from pet owners whose dogs were saved during a car crash. Gunner Kennels owns a 5-star crash test rating and is one of the only dog crates certified by the Center for Pet Safety.

Many crash-tested dog crates require the owner to anchor them in the back of their SUV. While you’ll want to secure your Gunner Kennel, you don’t necessarily need to build it into the frame of your car like many other models.

We love Gunner for its combination of quality, safety, and more affordable price compared to other crash test dog crates.

Diggs Revol

Made with high-grade aluminum, steel mesh wire, and reinforced plastic.
More sturdy than wire or soft-sided crates.
Has two wheels for portability.
Solid escape-proof doors.
Includes an adjustable puppy divider.
Can collapse in seconds.

Diggs Revol is made of high-quality materials, including high-grade aluminum, steel mesh wire, and reinforced plastic. The diamond-shaped mesh lets your dog peek out the window during your trip. T hanks to its ergonomic handles and two wheels, it’s easily transported and can collapse flat in seconds.

The doors are escape-proof to prevent any unexpected visitors in your front seat. The garage-style door helps pups feel more comfortable getting into the crate, especially injured or older dogs. It also features an adjustable puppy divider which allows this crate to grow with your dog.

We love the rounded frame on this crate to prevent paws from getting pinched. It’s also easy to clean if your puppy has an accident. There’s even a ceiling hatch for easy access if you want to give your dog a treat or a quick pet.

Best Dog Carriers

Carriers are different from crates , as carriers are typically something you can take out of your vehicle once stopped. You will not take your Variocage out of the car unless you plan to stay somewhere for a while. Dog carriers are typically used for small and toy-breed pups.

There have been advances in recent years, with some manufacturers like Sleepypod coming out with smaller crash-tested dog carriers that fit in the back seat of your car.

Below find our favorite options you can use that keep your pup safe.

SleepyPod Mobile Pet Carrier

Perfect for smaller dogs (up to 15 lbs).
Mobile crash-tested dog carrier.
No assembly required.
Made from luggage-grade nylon.
Includes shoulder strap for carrying.
Interior foam liner.

The Sleepypod mobile pet bed is a new entrant to the market and is a crash-tested option that’s perfect for smaller dogs. This carrier is made from luggage-grade nylon and is both plush and comfortable inside. It comes equipped with a padded shoulder strap and a handle, making transporting your pet on the go very easy.

Because this is smaller, it’s only recommended to fit pets up to 15 pounds. If you have a larger pup, you should consider getting a larger pet crate, like the ones we’ve given you a thumbs up on above. For smaller pets, this carrier is a great fit.

We love that it requires no assembly, making this carrier grab-and-go. If you have a flight planned, this product is not recommended. Instead, check out some in-cabin carriers that are air travel approved .

Gen7Pets Commuter Safety Seat

Approved for airline travel on most carriers.
Crash tested with seat belt use.
Great carrier for smaller dogs.
Padded shoulder strap.
Machine washable.
Made with heavy-duty hardware.
Utilizes seat belt latch in car.

The Gen7Pets Commuter safety seat has been rated five stars for safety by the center for pet safety. This carrier is approved for use on most airlines , but we’d still recommend getting one specifically for air travel if you plan on boarding a plane and transporting your dog in the cabin.

However, for cars, the Gen7Pets Commuter Safety Seat is a great pick, and it’s perfect for pets under 15 pounds. It’s specifically made for smaller breeds and toy breeds, similar to the Sleepypod mobile pet carrier. This carrier is also easy to grab and go, with shoulder and arm straps.

We love that the heavy-duty hardware ensures it withstands extreme abuse for years to come. It is equipped with a removable and machine-washable comfort pad. If you are looking for a budget-friendly crash-tested carrier, it’s hard to go wrong with this pick.

Frisco Kennel

Features 2 doors for loading the pet.
Hard-sided carrier.
Made from 95% pre-consumer recycled plastic.
Eco-friendly and easy to clean.
Sturdy handle for easy carrying
Comes in 2 different sizes.

The Frisco Two Door Top Load Plastic Dog & Cat Kennel comes in two sizes and two colors. It features a top-loading door, allowing access to your pet during your trip for comfort or treats.

The structure is made of two halves that lock together. While it’s not in use, you can store the halves inside one another to reduce the amount of space it takes up.

We love that the hard plastic shell makes cleaning easy. Your pet’s paws can stay drier with the moat-like structure inside. You can even add your dog’s favorite bed or blanket inside to provide a more cozy feeling for him.

Frequently Asked Questions

Regarding crash-tested dog crates, we’ve answered several common questions. Read through some of our frequently asked questions to find the answers you might still be looking for.

Why can’t I just use a harness in my car?

The short answer to this question is safety. In some states , it’s actually illegal to have your dog roam free in your vehicle while you’re driving. It’s much safer to have your dog in a crate rather than using something like a seatbelt leash, which leaves your pup exposed and unprotected in the case of an accident.

Should all dogs be in a crate every time they get in the car?

It is always best and safest for dogs to be crated or in a carrier in the car, regardless of size. The safest place for the crate is in the backseat, buckled in. If you cannot do that, you can anchor it in the trunk or cargo area, as long as it is not an enclosed trunk. Make sure the crate cannot slide or move around. Always pick a well-ventilated crate and make sure your dog gets fresh air, even if you need to roll down the window.

What accessories should I give my dog in his crate during a car ride?

You should make your dog feel as comfortable as possible in his crate during your car ride. Give him a couple of his favorite toys to keep him occupied. If you know you’re going to be driving for a long period without stopping, you should give him some food and water as well. You can even find special dispensers to attach to a wire crate with anti-spill features.

Are non-crash-tested crates okay to use?

While crash-tested crates are certainly the best and have proof that they are safe, this doesn’t mean that non-tested crates are unsafe. They’re just untested. Crates that haven’t been crash-tested are still okay to use, but it all depends on your comfort level. If you prefer to feel 100% confident that your dog will be okay in a crash, you may want to consider looking into only crash-tested products.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to our dogs, we want only the best products. Our pups are a part of our family, and protecting them is of the utmost importance. This is why it’s important to find the best crate for your budget to put into your car. Each crate on our list serves a different dog owner in terms of price, comfort level, available sizes, durability, and ease of use.

Whichever dog car crate you go with, know that these options are all excellent choices to get you started. Use this information to start your search and make the best purchase for your furry friend. Happy shopping, and let us know in the comments if you have a favorite car crate or carrier we missed.

Black dog pulling on a leash lunging towards water.

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The information provided through this website should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease; it is not intended to offer any legal opinion or advice or a substitute for professional safety advice or professional care. Please consult your health care provider, attorney, or product manual for professional advice. Products and services reviewed are provided by third parties; we are not responsible in any way for them, nor do we guarantee their functionality, utility, safety, or reliability. Our content is for educational purposes only.

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The 15 Best Travel Dog Crates & Carriers [2023]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

823 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

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The 15 Best Travel Dog Crates & Carriers [2023]

Things to consider with travel dog crates, the 7 best travel dog crates for airlines, the 8 best travel dog crates for cars, 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.

1. Luxury Carrier for High-flying Pooches

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.

2. Superstrong Pet Carrier for Use on the Plane

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

3. Multi-purpose Crate for Adventurous Dogs

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

4. Rolling Dog Carrier for Longer Journeys

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

5. 2-in-1 Carrier and Rolling Kennel

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

6. Fuss-free Travel Kennel for Everyday Use

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

7. Lightweight Pet Carrier for Easy Transportation

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

1. Basic Dog Crate That Can Fold Down for Easy Storage

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

2. Soft Dog Crate for Smaller Breeds

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

3. Plastic Carry Crate for the Trunk of Your Car

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

4. Multi-purpose Crate for Bigger Pooches

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

5. Heavy-duty Crate for Dogs Who Like Their Own Personal Space

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

6. Excellent Pop-up-style Dog Crate

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

7. Collapsible Crate for Use in Your Vehicle

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

8. For Dogs Who Like To Be Close by You

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.

The 10 Best Dog Travel Bags in 2024 [Totes, Backpacks]

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14 best travel carriers for dogs, according to editor reviews

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 comfortable. Since most airlines and other transportation methods will require taking your dog in some kind of enclosure, the pet carrier you choose is crucial in keeping 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’ll keep them safe. We also compiled a list of carriers either tested by NBC Select staff or recommended by our experts to consider.

SKIP AHEAD Best dog travel carriers | How to shop for a dog travel carrier | How to help your dog feel calm in a travel carrier

Selected. Our top picks

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, says 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 one 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, says 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 (CPS), 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 of 2024

Below are the best dog travel carriers based on experts’ guidance and NBC Select staff experience. We also include top-rated options and key factors to consider, including the carrier’s material, weight capacity and dimensions.

Best overall travel carrier: Away The Pet Carrier

Away Pet Carrier

CPS certified
Mesh sides and top
Removable and washable bedding
Recommended for smaller dogs

This Away travel carrier, an NBC Select Pet Award for best overall travel carrier, is designed for both car and airline travel. It has zip openings on the top and front with 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 havanese and bichon frise mix, 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

Best airline-approved carrier: Sherpa Pet Carrier

Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier

More affordable option
Very well ventilated
Removable and washable liner
Recommended for smaller pets

Another NBC Select Pet Awards 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 air travel 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.

Cavalier King Charles spaniel dog sitting in black travel carrier

NBC Select manager of editorial operations Shari Uyehara uses this carrier to fly with her 20-pound cavalier King Charles spaniel, Loki, and says it’s a great affordable option. 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: Gunner Kennel G1

Gunner Kennel G1

Can't be used as carry-on

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. Its reversible door design with an aluminum frame lets you open the crate from either side, and 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

Best soft-sided carrier: EliteField Soft-Sided Dog & Cat Carrier Bag

EliteField Soft-Sided Dog & Cat Carrier Bag

At just over two pounds, this is the most lightweight soft-sided pet carrier on our list. It comes 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 overheating, 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

Best tote carrier: Wild One Everyday Carrier

Wild One Everyday Carrier

Remains open

If you’re looking for a tote to carry your dog around town or on the train, consider this Wild One carrier. This NBC 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. “I love that Loki’s weight remains balanced in the carrier, but he still has room to move around,” says Uyehara, who appreciates its stability. It also includes a safety clip that attaches to your dog’s harness, ensuring they 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 for carrying 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

Cavalier King Charles spaniel dog sitting in a tote carrier on an orange chair

Best collapsible carrier: Roverlund Out-Of-Office Pet Carrier

Roverlund Pet Carrier

An NBC Select Pet Awards 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

Best backpack carrier: Apollo Walker Pet Carrier Backpack

Apollo Walker Pet Carrier Backpack

Adjustable straps
Pet can see outside

This highly rated backpack carrier, which has a 4.6-star average rating from over 4,900 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 Duffy Dog & Cat Carrier

MidWest Duffy Dog & Cat Carrier

No removable bedding
Not as ventilated as others

This Midwest Duffy carrier comes 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 taking your dog in and out easier, 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

Best for medium-sized dogs: Arlo Skye The Pet Carrier

Arlo Skye The Pet Carrier

No mesh top

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 you can pack easily in your suitcase or travel bag, according to the brand. It has dual openings on both ends and a back trolley 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 for small dogs: Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed

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 isn’t limited 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 Wolko. 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 lightweight carrier: Molly and Stitch Alpine Dog Carrier

Molly and Stitch Alpine Dog Carrier

Stylish design
Padded and comfortable
Machine-washable
Not for plane travel

This tote carrier is great for smaller dogs, and its lightweight design is convenient to take anywhere. It's a favorite of NBC Select social commerce editor Sadhana Daruvuri, who says her 2-year-old maltipoo Bandit fits comfortably inside. “This carrier is very high quality, and it was so stylish that I would happily use it as an everyday bag,” says Daruvuri. “Cleaning it is also easy — you can just throw it in the wash, and even after repeated uses, the bag looks brand new.”

Pet weight: Up to 15 lbs | Dimensions: n/a | Material: n/a

Best carrier with pee pad: Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier

Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier

Includes a bed and pee pad
Has multiple pocket
Not as much mesh as others

Diggs is an NBC Select Pet Award -winning brand that makes some of our favorite dog crates. The brand’s Passenger Travel Carrier is great for both plane and car travel: It fits many airlines’ size requirements, and it has custom seat belt clips and a buckle strap to place it safely in your car. It also comes with a Diggs Pee Pad that attaches to the included bed — if your dog chooses to use it, you can open the side panel to swap it out without disrupting your pup, according to the brand.

Pet weight: Up to 18 lbs | Dimensions: 20 x 11.5 x 10.8 | Material: n/a

Best personalizable carrier: Paravel Cabana Pet Carrier

Paravel Cabana Carrier

Personalizable with name
Folds flat for easy storage

If you’re looking for a personalized option, this Paravel pet carrier — which is the dog-friendly version of the brand’s original Cabana Tote — lets you monogram your pup’s name or initials in the color of your choosing. It also has a washable fleece interior lining, comes with several pockets for storing treats and other small essentials, and it folds completely flat for easy storage.

Pet weight: Up to 20 lbs | Dimensions: 11 x 20.5 x 11 in. | Material: Paravel EcoCraft Canvas, vegan leather

Best sling carrier: Tomkas Dog Sling Carrier

Tomkas Dog Sling Carrier

Easy to take on the go
Zip pockets for small items
Requires physical strength

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 dog Bella when she was a puppy, 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

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), says 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, says 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 them feel familiar and 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 prevents your dog from 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).

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

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, says 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, some airlines like Delta Air Lines, Southwest, American Airlines and Alaska Air are no longer accepting emotional support animals on board.

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.

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 International Air Transport Association (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 NBC 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.

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Mili Godio is an updates editor at NBC 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 experts' recommendations for the best travel carriers to consider, as well as travel carriers tested and reviewed by NBC Select staff.

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Best Dog Crates For Car Travel In 2024 – Reviews & Top Picks

By Ashley Bates

Updated on Jul 12, 2024

When you’re traveling by car, you want your dog to be safe and comfortable, so you’ll need a good crate that’s sturdy and portable. There are many crates on the market, but not all of them will work well in your car.

How do you sort through the options and pick a great model?

Don’t worry, we’re here to help you shop. We tested all the top models and put together this list of this year’s 9 best dog crates for car travel.

Each model has a detailed review, comparing price, weight, type, portability, accessories, and warranty so that you can find your best option.

And if you want to know more about the features, take a look at our comprehensive buyer’s guide.

A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2024

The 9 best dog crates for car travel, 1. amazon basics 2-door collapsible lightweight soft-sided folding travel crate dog kennel – best overall.

Our pick for the best overall dog crate for car travel is the Amazon Basics 2-Door Collapsible Lightweight Soft-Sided Folding Travel Crate Dog Kennel . We love that this crate comes in four sizes, with the smallest size fitting dogs up to 25 pounds and the extra-large size fitting dogs up to 90 pounds.

It only comes in one color – tan – but the polyester fabric is durable, lightweight, and easy to clean, while the PVC frame is sturdy to help prevent the crate from collapsing while in use. The crate itself can be set up and folded down within seconds, with no tools required.

It has a top door and side door, so that your dog can get in the crate from various angles, and the added benefit of the top door is that your dog can stick their head out of the top if they want.The crate also has mesh windows on all sides for ventilation.

Perhaps the best part of this crate is the price, as not only is it a quality product, but it is also very affordable for most people! As long as your dog weighs under 90 pounds, this crate should work well for you, but it won’t be suitable for dogs that are larger than that.

Multiple sizes
Sturdy and durable
Has a top door as well as a side door
For dogs up to 90 pounds only

2. Frisco Travel Safety Dog Carrier – Best Value

Introducing our pick for the best dog crate for car travel for the money— the Frisco Travel Safety Dog Carrier . This well-made design was explicitly created to fit onto the seat of a car. It has attachment pieces that sit around the seating to ensure a proper fit. It is a very stable carrier with mesh all the way around so that your pet can breathe and see the scenery. It is extremely well made, crafted with strong materials and efficient safety.

This particular dog carrier comes in two different sizes, medium and large. You can pick the one that suits your dog, making them comfortable on the road. This is an extra safe, secure, and durable design. It collapses easily for easy storage when it is not in use. The material also wipes down very easily in the event of any spills or accidents. Inside the carrier, you will find a completely machine-washable mat.

Ultimately, we absolutely loved the design and hope you will as much as we do! We feel it fits the needs of most travelers and your dog will appreciate it, too. However, it may not fit very large or extra-large dog breeds.

Works for larger dogs
Secure and easy to clean
For dogs up to 50 pounds only

3. Pettycare Collapsible Crate for Large Dogs – Premium Choice

Our premium choice pick is the Pettycare Collapsible Crate for Large Dogs . We picked this one as our top choice because despite the name, it actually comes in 9 sizes, to fit dogs of almost any size! The largest size is suitable for dogs up to 90 pounds, so unless you have a dog that weighs over that, this crate can work for you. It also comes in four colors, so you can choose your favorite, or choose one that matches the interior of your car.

As far as ease of use, this crate requires no tools to assemble and can be set up and folded down easily. It’s made of durable 600D Oxford cloth and is easy to clean, and it also has more than one door to allow your dog to enter easily, and the doors are made of mesh so that your dog can still see out of them.

There are also side pockets so that you can store your dog’s leash, toys, or other supplies. But because this crate comes in so many sizes, it’s important that you measure your dog and your car space to make sure you buy the appropriate size.

Easy to assemble and clean
Comes in a variety of sizes and colors
Side pockets for storing supplies
Not suitable for dogs above 90 pounds

4. PetSafe Happy Ride Collapsible Dog Travel Crate

If you have a puppy or smaller dog, we like the PetSafe Happy Ride Collapsible Dog Travel Crate . This cozy dog crate can make your dog comfy the entire way from point A to B because the design is made to fit securely in the backseat of your car or truck. The aluminum frame makes the crate sturdy, but it is still collapsible for easy storage when not in use.

The mesh panels on the front and sides provide ventilation and keep your pet inside while they can still see out, and you can see them easily, too. One of our favorite features is the space in the side of the crate for you to stick your hand through to pet your dog without having to open the entire crate. This particular design is recommended for dogs under 60 pounds, but it’s extremely spacious for smaller pets if you so choose to get it.

The downsides of this carrier are that it is not suitable for larger dogs, and it takes up the whole backseat. So unless you have a third row of seats in your vehicle, you won’t be able to use it if you have kids also.

Spacious for smaller dogs
Easily collapsible when not in use
Allows you to pet your dog without opening the entire crate
Not suitable for dogs over 60 pounds
Takes up a lot of car space

5. Petsfit Collapsible Dog Crate

The Petsfit Collapsible Dog Crate is similar to some of the other products we’ve featured, and it also comes in several sizes. However, the largest size only fits dogs up to 85 pounds, so it’s a little bit smaller than similar crates. It does come in more color options though, so you have a greater selection to choose from in that area.

The design allows your dog to sit up inside, peering out through the top portion, or lay down if they need to stretch out. You can also fully zip them inside, closing the top for restricted access, but it may not be as roomy as some of the other options.

Like the other options, this crate is easily collapsible when not in use so you can store it easily. Plus, it has handles so you can tote your pup around. However, it is also a little more basic and doesn’t come with a lot of extra features, such as storage pockets. But it is a good price for a quality product.

Lots of color options
Multiple sizes to choose from
Not suitable for dogs over 85 pounds
May not be as spacious as similar products

6. Petnation Port-A-Crate Dog Crate

The Petnation 614 Port-A-Crate is reasonably priced and portable with a fun design but has many less durable plastic components and not very sturdy mesh.

This 10.9-pound crate is surprisingly easy to transport , as it easily folds and buckles together. The fun bone-shaped windows are made of tightly-woven, honeycomb-patterned mesh, and there’s a solid steel frame. The crate can fit dogs up to 70 pounds , and it has front and top doors and rounded corners.

This crate doesn’t include a pad and can’t be attached to your car seats . The plastic pieces that hold up the frame break easily and the mesh isn’t very durable. Petnation doesn’t offer a warranty.

Fairly-priced and very portable
Fun bone-shaped mesh windows
Fits dogs up to 70 pounds
Steel frame with a fabric cover and rounded corners
Top and front doors
Folds and buckles for transportation
No warranty
Doesn’t attach to car seat
No included pad
Less durable plastic components
Not very sturdy mesh

7. 2PET Foldable Travel Dog Crates

The 2PET Foldable Dog Crate is a lightweight and reasonably-priced soft crate with less durable mesh and plastic zippers.

This 6.8-pound crate, which is sold in a range of sizes and colors, has a steel tube frame and a water-resistant 600D fabric cover that’s removable and machine-washable. It has a top handle that doubles as a seat belt attachment, and there are built-in water bottle and food container holders. The package includes a waterproof mat and a reversible, washable fleece pad.

We found that the mesh on this crate ripped easily, and the zippers broke quickly. This model feels less durable and somewhat cheaper overall. 2PET offers a 1-year warranty.

Lightweight and reasonably-priced
Range of sizes and colors
Steel tube frame with top handle for seat belt connection
Removable, machine-washable, and water-resistant 600D fabric cover
Built-in water bottle and food container holders
Includes waterproof mat and reversible fleece pad
1-year warranty
Thin mesh rips easily
Less durable plastic zippers
Not very sturdy overall
Related Read: Collapsible Dog Bowls for Travel

8. Noz2Noz Indoor & Outdoor Dog Crates

Another option is the Noz2Noz 667 Soft Krater Indoor and Outdoor Crate , which is heavy and somewhat harder to set up, with less durable zippers.

This 12.4-pound light green crate, sold in a choice of five sizes, has a steel frame and a removable, machine-washable canvas cover. The frame locking mechanism, which has push-button tabs and couplers, may take you some extra time to master. The crate also has rounded corners and tight-weave mesh windows.

When we tested this crate, we found no chemical odor, but the plastic zippers felt somewhat cheaper and less durable. The mesh isn’t strong enough to withstand paws, and Noz2Noz doesn’t offer a warranty.

Choice of five sizes
Steel frame with removable, machine-washable fabric cover
Push-button tabs and couplers for frame locking
Rounded corners and mesh windows
No chemical smell
More difficult to use locking mechanism
Less durable plastic zippers and weaker mesh
Fairly heavy

9. EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate

EliteField’s 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate is very heavy and fairly pricey, with many included accessories and a good warranty.

At 17.6 pounds, this crate is very heavy. It comes in multiple sizes and quite a few colors and is designed to be wider and taller, giving your dog more space. With a steel tube frame, 600D cover, and hex mesh windows, it folds easily. There are three doors, on the top, front, and side, for easier access, and two accessory pockets. The package includes a padded shoulder strap, a removable fleece pad, and a carrying bag . There’s also a frame locking mechanism and convenient reinforced corners.

We found this crate to be not very well sewn, with seams that tear easily. The zippers and mesh aren’t durable enough to stand up to dogs. EliteField offers a good 2-year warranty.

Multiple sizes and colors available
Wider and taller for a spacious fit
Steel tube frame, 600D cover, and hex mesh windows
Three doors for easy access
Reinforced corners and frame locking mechanism
Includes padded shoulder strap, carrying bag, and fleece pad
2-year warranty
Very heavy and somewhat expensive
Less sturdy seams, zippers, and mesh

Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Dog Crate for Car Travel

Now that you’ve taken a look at our list of the nine best car crates, it’s time to choose. But which will work best for you and your dog? Keep reading for our quick guide to your options.

Hard or Soft?

The first big decision is whether to buy a hard crate or a fabric crate. Fabric crates, which typically have hard steel or plastic frames with fabric covers, are more portable, fold for simpler carrying, and often weighing less overall. These crates work best with well-trained dogs that don’t chew or scratch.

If you have a puppy or a high-energy dog, you may prefer a hard crate. These crates generally have hard plastic sides and steel wire doors and are often more durable, better withstanding your dog’s scratching and chewing. In exchange for that durability, these bulkier crates may be harder to carry.

Car Attachments

If you’re taking your dog crate in the car, you may want to be able to attach it to the seat, as you would a child car seat. Secure attachments will keep your crate from moving when you brake or accelerate, keeping your dog steady. You may want to look for seat belt and headrest attachments, like sturdy handles and loops.

Before you purchase a dog crate, you’ll want to consider the size of your dog. You may want to measure your dog and compare the numbers to each model’s dimensions. Keep in mind that your dog will be more comfortable with extra space to move around.

Accessories

Are you interested in a range of included accessories, or do you just want the crate? Dog crates may come with washable fleece pads, waterproof liners, padded shoulder straps, or food and water bowls.

Other useful tools: Car Clean Up Made Easy with the Best Car Vacuums

Would you like your investment protected by a good warranty? Many of the models we reviewed come with warranties, ranging from 30 days to multiple years. You may also want to pay attention to the details of your model’s warranty, as it may cover only some components.

We can’t recommend the Amazon Basics 2-Door Collapsible Lightweight Soft-Sided Folding Travel Crate Dog Kennel enough if you really want the best overall dog crate for car travel. It is a wonderful design that can fit dogs up to 90 pounds. We think it’s a pretty good price for the quality too.

If you have a dog under 50 pounds and want to save as much money as possible, but still want a quality product, we highly recommend the Frisco Travel Safety Dog Carrier .

Don’t forget our premium choice, the Pettycare Collapsible Crate for Large Dogs . This carrier is suited for dogs of almost any size and comes highly well-made with multiple entry points.

Keep in mind, there are weight requirements on pet crates and carriers, so make sure that your dog falls within these parameters. Hopefully, our reviews helped you find the carrier that best suits your travel needs.

How To Travel With Your Dog
Best Small Dog Crates
Best Dog Car Seat Covers
Best Dog Crates with Dividers

Featured Image Credit: Colin Seddon, Shutterstock

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Best Dog Crates For Car Travel 2024

We discuss some of the best dog crates for car travel if you're ready for some road trips with your dog.

We take a look at the best dog crates for car travel
We share some collapsible, high anxiety and stationary dog crates
We recommend Impact and you can save 15% when you use code “HELLOBARK” and click here

Are you researching the best dog crates for car travel ahead of a road trip?

If you’re planning to go on a vacation and you want to take your furry buddy along for the ride, you’ll probably need a dog crate.

However, it can be overwhelming sorting through all the different crates on Amazon or other online retailers.

There’s so many options whether you’re looking at a steel crate, plastic crate or soft crate.

In this article, we’re going to take a look at the best dog crates for car travel to help dog owners find thei right crate for their dog and their car.

So with the introduction out of the way, let’s start by looking at some factors to consider when selecting a dog crate for car travel before highlighting some of our top picks.

Jump To Section

Things To Consider When Buying Dog Crate For Car Travel

Pitbull (Photo: Adobe Stock)

• Size – The size of the crate is an important consideration. Whether you’ve got a small dog, medium-sized dog or large dog, you don’t want a crate that’s too big for your pet. It should be an appropriate size. Your dog should have sufficient space to stand, sit, turn around, and lie down but not so much space that your dog could be thrown around the crate.

• Accessibility – If you’re taking a potty break, you’ll want to be able to access your dog easily from the trunk. Perhaps you want to slip your dog a treat while your partner drives the car. In this situation, it would be useful to have access to your dog from the top of the crate.

• Safety – Your dog’s safety is vital. So you want a crate that is soundly constructed. It’s a good idea to get a dog crate that is made from durable material, capable of withstanding an accident should the unthinkable happen.

• Durability – If you plan to place the crate in your car’s trunk but you’ll want to take the crate out of your car when you reach your destination, you’ll want a crate that’s made from durable material capable of withstanding general wear and tear.

• Ventilation – Your dog should feel comfortable in the dog crate that will act as their safe space when on the road. We have only considered dog crates for travel that have plentiful ventilation to keep your dog cool.

• Visibility – Dog crates should have some element of visibility so you can keep your eye on your pup. For instance, my dog gets car sick a lot so I like to be able to see my pet in case he needs a break from travelling on the road.

• Comfort – Some dog crates will provide items such as a bed, crate mat or padding to help make your dog feel more comfortable when they’re in the crate. Those bumps in the road will feel a little less bumpy.

• Ease Of Use – It should be easy to put the crate together, collapse the crate, move the crate, clean the crate and haul the crate.

Best Dog Crates For Car Travel

Now that we know a little more about the things to look for when buying a dog crate for car travel, let’s take a look at our picks for the best dog crates for car travel.

1) Impact Collapsible Dog Crate

Where To Buy: impactdogcrates.com

Impact Collapsible Dog Crate (Photo: hellobark.com)

We like the Impact Collapsible Dog Crate for a number of reasons in the context of a dog crate for car travel. It’s been carefully and thoughtfully engineered to aide dog owners and their pets who like to travel together. It’s hassle-free to collapse and put back together – it took me less than 60 seconds so it’s easy to use. They’ve used high-quality aluminum materials to create their innovative crate. The reinforced material makes it extremely durable, while the military grade handles make it simple to move. Impact have also considered your dog’s safety. The rounded diamond shaped air holes allows for ventilation, while protecting the teeth of big chewers. The Impact Collapsible Dog Crate comes in four sizes and you can follow their online guide to get the right size for your dog. If you’ve got two dogs, the crates are stackable so you can save on space if you’ve got a big SUV, truck or you’re in a small hotel room. It’s got an average score of 4.9 stars based upon the reviews on their website (well worth reading the reviews to see just how durable the crate is). The Impact Collapsible Dog Crate is a premium, military grade option and starts at $899 .

You can get 15% off your Impact Dog Crates order when you use our exclusive discount HELLOBARK at the checkout. To get this 15% discount on your Impact Dog Crate, click here .

2) Diggs Revol Dog Crate

Where To Buy: diggs.pet

The Revol crate by Diggs (Photo: hellobark.com)

Next up we’ve got a Diggs Revol dog crate that looks completely different to Impact’s Collapsible Dog Crate. The Revol is a more modern take on the wire crates you can find on online retailers such as Amazon. It’s a lot more attractive than most collapsible crates available on the market right now. While it may look nice, they haven’t sacrificed safety. The Revol crate was inspired by baby industry quality standards. Putting the crate together (the first try took 15 minutes but once set up, I was able to collapse and set up in less than 60 seconds), it was clear Diggs have used premium materials. it has an ergonomic design with easy-to-use doors. They’ve got a diamond-shaped mesh pattern to prevent injury to jaws and paws if you’ve got a dog who likes to chew or gets anxious when on the road. If your dog gets car sick like my Klee Kai, the Revol has a removable tray to make cleaning the crate simple. It’s travel friendly with a carrying handle and wheels. You can purchase the Revol Dog Crate in four sizes and it starts at $375 .

We can offer helloBARK! readers 11% off their first Diggs order when you click this link .

3) Amazon Basics Dog Crate For Travel

Where To Buy: www.amazon.com

Chihuahua stands in dog crate (Photo: Adobe Stock)

We’ve highlighted two premium dog crates in this feature so far. I wanted to include a budget option if you’re unsure whether you’re ready for a big outlay. Perhaps you’re taking your dog on the road for the first time and you want to see how they fare before investing in a luxury dog crate. The Amazon Basics 2-Door Top Load Hard Sided Dog is a budget option that lacks some of the innovative features and some of the enhanced safety features that the other two crates in this article have. However, it can still do a decent job. It’s made of plastic with steel wire doors and screws that keep the top and bottom securely attached. There’s a door at the front and a door in the ceiling to give you access to your dog while on the road. There’s air ventilation on the sides, top, and back of the crate. The dog crate is ideal for small or medium dogs and starts at $39 (available on Amazon) .

How We Picked Best Collapsible Dog Crates For Medium Dogs

There’s a lot of choice online if you’ve been looking for the best dog crate for travel. Just a quick search on Amazon will yield hundreds of results.

You can also head to your local pet store where you’ll likely find some classic options for your four-legged friend such as wire crates.

But I wanted something a little extra from a dog crate for travel so I started to research the best options for dog crates if you like to take your dog on vacation.

With that in mind, we carefully read expert advice, researched online reviews and the latest dog crate technology to create a list of leading options.

Once we had a shortlist, we took into consideration factors such as size, materials, entrances, portability, ventilation, functionality and appearance.

The list above represents what we consider to be the leading options for dog owners searching for the dog crates for travel.

We update this list regularly for accuracy and integrity.

Wrapping Up – Our Final Thoughts

Greyhounds in dog crate (Photo: Adobe Stock)

We’ve reached the end of our feature on the best dog crates for travel.

My top pick would Impact’s Collapsible Dog Crate based upon my experience using the crate for travel.

It’s made from high-quality materials with an innovative design that provides peace of mind my dogs are safe and secure in their Impact crate in the trunk.

I appreciated the ease of use – you can collapse the dog crate in seconds and carry it using the military handle. It’s easy to pop up once you get to your car’s trunk or hotel room.

However, it’s a premium option so you’ll have to be prepared to dig deep into your pockets but it does come with a lifetime guarantee should any of the parts prove faulty.

The good news for our readers is that you can save 15% on your first order when you click this link .

With that said, you won’t go wrong with the Revol by Diggs. I like how you can access your dogs from the roof of the crate if you’re sat in the back seat and need to reach back.

Your dog will be more visible in the Revol than the Impact Collapsible Crate thanks to the wire-mesh design so that’s another consideration.

It’s a cheaper option than Impact’s crate and you can save an additional 11% on the Revol when you click here .

So there you have it, our top pick is Impact’s Collapsible Dog Crate closely followed by Diggs’ Revol crate. For those on a strict budget, you could consider a starter travel crate like this Amazon Basics option .

Page first published: 26 June 2023
Last updated: 25 January 2024
Next review due: 20250125

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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 Best Dog Crates For Travel 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

Traveling with your pup can be so much fun for you both, allowing you to see the world and explore together.

A travel dog crate can make travel easier, safer, and more comfortable for your dog , as well as give you peace of mind.

There are lots of fantastic options, allowing you to find something suitable for your adventurous pup.

In this guide, we’ve thoroughly reviewed the best dog crates for travel on the market.

Our top choice is the Frisco Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate . It’s lightweight, easy to fold down and assemble, and most importantly safe during travel.

The Best Dog Crates For Travel

Editor's Choice

Best overall travel crate
Strong, durable material
Easy fold-down and assembly

MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate

Best collapsible wire crate
Folds down easily for travel
Strong metal construction

Best for small breeds
Sturdy and secure
Great for air and car travel

1. Frisco Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate [ CHECK PRICE ]

2. midwest icrate fold & carry single door collapsible wire dog crate [ check price ], 3. petmate two door top load dog & cat kennel [ 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. proselect empire single door steel dog crate [ check price ], 7. sherpa original deluxe airline-approved dog carrier bag [ check price ], more detailed travel dog crate reviews, best dog crates for travel.

Frisco Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate Check Price
MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate Check Price
Petmate Two Door Top Load Dog & Cat Kennel 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
ProSelect Empire Single Door Steel Dog Crate Check Price
Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog Carrier Bag Check Price

Frisco Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate

Frisco fold & carry double door collapsible wire dog crate review.

The Frisco Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate is 1 of the best travel dog crates on the market. It can be folded down quickly and has handles to make transportation easy.

It’s also quick and easy to assemble when you get to your destination (I found this very handy), making it a great home-away-from-home for your pup.

This dog cage is made from durable and robust material, making it safer if used during travel. There’s even a dual latch on larger crate sizes to provide extra security for stronger dogs.

The crate comes in a range of sizes to suit all breeds and has a removable divider panel you can use when your dog is a puppy, so the crate can grow with them (see also ‘ The Ultimate Dog Crate Sizing Guide ‘). It comes at a very reasonable price.

Many owners felt this crate was made with high-quality materials, making it durable
Strong enough for most dogs who are crate trained
Owners found it was easy to fold down and put back up, making it great for travel
2 doors provide easy access and more options for positioning, which owners felt was handy during travel and when positioning the crate in the home
Some said the crate was lightweight, particularly for the security and strength it provides
Owners stated that they felt this crate was of great value
Not suitable for escape artists, as some owners found their determined dog could get out of the crate
Not strong enough for very destructive dogs, who can chew and break the crate
With frequent use some owners found that the latches became misshapen, making it hard to lock the crate
Some found the divider panel hard to install

MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate

Midwest icrate fold & carry single door collapsible wire dog crate review.

The MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate is one of the best dog crates for travel, with durable construction and plenty of ventilation.

It assembles in minutes with no tools and folds down flat for transportation. There’s even a carry handle to make your life easier.

The strong wire construction paired with secure latches keeps your dog safely enclosed on the move. I liked that the plastic bottom is leakproof and removable so if there are any accidents on your adventures, they’re easy to clean up.

This crate comes in a wide range of sizes to suit most breeds. It even has a divider panel so it can grow with your dog, which is fantastic if you have a puppy.

Many owners said this crate was well-made and durable
Owners generally felt this crate was spacious and comfortable for their dog
Folds flat easily with little effort and is easy to transport
Most owners felt this crate was secure and kept their dog safely enclosed
Owners found this crate was easy to assemble
Divider panel can be tricky to take in and out (see also ' How To Make A Dog Crate Divider ')
Some owners found their strong dog could break out of this crate

Petmate Two Door Top Load Dog & Cat Kennel

Petmate two door top load dog & cat kennel review.

The Petmate Two Door Top Load Dog & Cat Kennel is 1 of the best dog crates for air travel or car travel, as well as providing a cozy home base for your precious pooch.

Steel wire and durable plastic are combined to make a safe, secure crate for small breeds. I found that the crate’s plastic sides made my dog feel safely enclosed, keeping them calmer during travel (see also ‘ What Kind of Crate Is Best For My Puppy? (5 Types Analyzed) ‘).

The crate provides plenty of ventilation for your dog. This dog car crate has a handle on top, providing easy portability even when your little furbaby is inside.

It’s available in 2 sizes for small breeds and comes at a great low price.

Owners found the crate easy to assemble with no tools required
2 doors allow your dog to look out, while also providing easy access for both dog and owner
Some found the option to use the crate as a carrier very useful during travel
Plastic is easy to wipe clean, which is convenient if your dog has an accident when traveling
Lightweight, making it easy to transport and move around when needed
Some owners found the ventilation holes were sharper than they expected, which they felt was a safety hazard
Some said they found the size description was misleading, leading them to purchase the wrong size for their dog
2 plastic sections clip together during assembly, which some owners said made the crate weaker and less sturdy than they had hoped

Go Pet Club Double Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate

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

Best crate carrier
Suitable for toy and small breeds
Comfortable and cozy

The Go Pet Club Double Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate is a fantastic option if you’re looking for both a crate and a carrier in 1.

With soft sides, plenty of ventilation, and a removable fleece floor pad, this fabric crate makes a comfortable, cozy space for your dog. A reinforced steel structure provides some security during traveling.

Handles allow you to carry your dog while they’re inside the crate, which I found very sturdy when carrying my small dog. It also folds down and re-assembles quickly for convenience during travel.

Most dog car carriers have doors that open from the top or side, but this crate has zippered double doors on the top and front for easy access. This makes it easier to put your pet in and out of the crate, especially if they have any mobility issues.

This soft crate is suitable for toys and small breeds and comes at an exceptionally low price.

Lightweight and easy to fold down and reassemble, which owners found helpful for travel
Being able to use the crate as a carrier was handy for most owners
Owners found it was excellent for car travel, keeping their dogs safe and comfortable
Additional pockets for dog’s belongings are very useful when traveling
Most owners felt this crate was great value for money
Not strong enough for dogs who are destructive or try to escape
Some owners found the crate was easily torn if their dog moved around a lot while inside
Not sturdy enough to stand up to chewing
Some found this crate harder to assemble than other crates they’d tried
Some owners found the mesh was a weak point in the crate, being easily torn by their pup

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 soft-sided crate
Comfortable and secure
Suitable for all breeds

The Frisco Indoor & Outdoor 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate is an amazing on-the-go home for your pampered pooch, with soft sides and 3 doors for easy access.

With a sturdy steel frame, water-resistant material, plenty of ventilation, and the ability to lock the zippers, this crate offers safety during travel as well as comfort.

The crate can be folded down and put back up easily, which I found made traveling much easier with my dogs.

It’s lightweight and features a carrying handle to make transportation easy. This crate comes in a range of sizes to suit all breeds and is an affordable, mid-range price.

If you’re looking for the best dog travel crate, this is a wonderful choice.

Great for use as your dog’s ‘bedroom’ when they are on holiday with you
Owners found the crate was very portable, being easy to fold down and assemble
Great for car travel, creating a cozy safe space for your dog
Owners found the crate was dark and created a cave-like space for their dogs, which kept them calmer, particularly during travel
Most owners felt this crate was excellent value for money
Not strong enough for escape artists or dogs who are prone to chewing
Some owners found the zips weren’t very sturdy and were easily broken
Some felt that the material was not as high-quality as they expected

ProSelect Empire Single Door Steel Dog Crate

ProSelect Empire Single Door Steel Dog Crate review

Best for escape artists
Reinforced steel with dual locking
Suitable for medium and large breeds

The ProSelect Empire Single Door Steel Dog Crate is an excellent option for big, strong dogs who are escape artists.

This sturdy crate is made from steel and is reinforced, making it extremely strong to keep your dog safely contained during travel. While this crate doesn’t fold down, I found the wheels make it easier to transport.

It comes in 2 sizes for medium and large dogs. While this crate is on the higher end of the price range, if you have a dog who is prone to escaping its crate, I feel it’s worth the cost to keep your best friend safe.

Owners stated that this crate was escape-proof, even in cases where their dog had escaped all other crates previously
Many said that the crate was worth the investment to keep their dog safe during travel or when they were home alone (see also ' Should Dogs Be Crated? ')
Strong enough for dogs who dig or chew when they’re in their crate
Sturdy materials provide extra protection during travel, which gave owners peace of mind
Some stated that their dog found the crate comfortable, and they were able to add additional comfort items
Due to its heavy-duty construction, this crate is heavy and hard to move around for travel
Some owners found the assembly of the crate difficult and somewhat confusing
Some very determined dogs were able to figure out the latch mechanism
In some cases, owners felt the crate didn’t stand up to wear over time as well as they had hoped

Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog Carrier Bag

Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Bag

Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog Carrier Bag review

Best airline-approved carrier crate
Approved for use on most airlines
Shoulder strap for easy carrying

If you travel a lot with your best friend, the Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog Carrier Bag might be just what you need.

Ideal for small dogs, this carrier bag allows you to take your pup with you on the go. It has a carry strap so you can carry them easily and is approved for use on most airlines.

There are mesh windows so your dog can see where they’re going and to ensure they have adequate ventilation. There’s both top and side entry, so you can easily access your dog during travel.

I liked that this bag came with a faux lambskin liner for your dog’s comfort and locking zippers for security. At an affordable price and with high-quality construction, this carrier crate is excellent value!

Many owners said this carry crate was easy and comfortable to carry
Most owners felt this crate was comfortable for their pet
Several owners said they took their dogs on a plane and had no issues with this carrier
The top door allows easy access and lets pets sit up and look out on their travels
Many said the carrier was durable and lasted well over time
Not designed to stand up to biting or destructive behavior
Some experienced breakage over time, in particular around the zippers and lining

Things to Look for in a Travel Dog Crate

When you’re looking for the best travel dog crate for your pup, it’s crucial you keep a few things in mind to help you make the safest, most suitable choice for you and your dog.

Fit for Purpose

If you’re going to be carrying the crate with you to use as your dog’s ‘bedroom’ away from home, a foldable lightweight crate will be best.

If you’re searching for the best dog crate for car travel, you need to think about how safe and secure your dog will be in the crate, as well as how you will fit and secure the crate into your car. Often plastic or wire crates are the best choice for car travel.

If you’re looking for the best dog crate for airline travel, the type of crate you need will depend on whether your dog will be in the cabin with you or in the cargo hold.

If your dog is in the cabin, a smaller, softer crate may be better. If they’re in the cargo hold, a sturdy, solid crate to keep them safe from being bumped around would be best.

Each airline has individual regulations and rules about which carriers they will allow onboard, so vital to check those requirements specifically.

If you’re going to be traveling by air with your dog a lot, it’s a good idea to look for crates that state they are ‘Airline Approved’ or ‘Guaranteed On Board’.

Furthermore, pet safety crash testing is also an important factor to consider, as these tests can guarantee the safety of your pet in the event of a car accident.

Most car crates proudly display their Center for Pet Safety certification, which is a good sign that the crate has undergone rigorous testing. Ultimately, you should feel confident knowing your pet is safe, secure, and comfortable in its crash-tested crate.

High-Quality Materials

Choosing a crate made with high-quality materials means it’s likely to be safer, as well as more sturdy and secure. It also means the crate is likely to last longer and stand up to wear as you go on adventures with your pup.

Correct Size for Your Dog

It’s vital to choose a crate that is the right size for your dog. Ideally, you should measure your dog:

from their nose to the base of their tail, and add 3 to 4 inches for the length of the crate
from the top of their head or ears to the floor, and add 3 to 4 inches for the height of the crate
across their shoulders and multiply by two for the width of the crate

Your dog should always be able to stand up fully, turn around comfortably, and stretch out in their crate, but not be able to walk around.

Correct Strength for Your Dog

Think about how strong you need the crate to be for your dog. If your dog is smaller or generally calm when they’re in its crate, a soft-sided crate might be suitable.

If your dog is bigger and typically chews their crate or tries to escape, a solid plastic or metal crate will be better suited.

Secure Closure

Any crate you choose should have a secure closure to keep your dog safely inside the crate during travel (see also ‘ How To Secure A Dog Crate In A Car ‘).

A zip or small lock may be enough for some dogs, while escape artists may need double, reinforced locks. It’s also essential that the seat belt in the car should be securely attached to the crate.

Easy Entry and Exit

Think about how your dog will enter and exit the crate. Some crates have multiple doors to make things easier.

Good Air Flow

A crate must have good ventilation. Wire crates typically have a lot of ventilation. Look for ventilation holes in the side of plastic crates and mesh windows on soft-sided crates.

Easy Cleaning

There’s no denying that dogs can make a mess. If you’re traveling, particularly if your dog is nervous, it might have an accident. Choosing a crate that is easy to clean will be helpful and more hygienic.

Some crates will have removable or washable linings. Others may be easy to wipe down. Some are ‘potty proof’, meaning there’s a pull-out area under the crate that easily pulls out so you can clean it, or you could add a puppy pad to the pull-out area during travel to absorb any accidents.

Comfort for Your Dog

Of course, it’s crucial your dog feels comfortable. Choosing a crate that is the right size with good ventilation is key for this. You can also add in a comfortable bed, blankets, crate-safe toys and chews, and water.

Ease of Storage

If you’re going to be storing the crate when you aren’t traveling, think about how much room you have. A crate that folds down may be more suitable.

Portability

Consider the weight of the crate as well as how easy it is to carry. Some will be more lightweight, may fold down, and may even have handles to make lifting them easier. The best heavy-duty dog crates may have wheels to help you move them.

Why You Might Buy a Travel Dog Crate

Just like people, when dogs are traveling by air or by road, they need to be secured safely to protect them in case of an accident. A crate can be a great way to keep your dog safe.

If you use a crate at home, your dog can see it as their ‘bedroom’ or safe space. Often when dogs travel in a crate or use it as a place to sleep while on holiday, it keeps them calmer and happier because they see the crate as a positive place.

The Importance of Crate Training

It’s crucial that your dog sees their crate as a safe place. This means you need to crate train your dog before you use a travel crate (see also ‘ Dog Crate Training Pros & Cons (Is It Really Necessary?) ‘).

Do your research if you’ve never crate trained before; there are lots of great guides online.

Some general crate training tips are included below:

Get your dog used to their crate for a while before you plan on traveling.
Never use the crate as a punishment, only as a positive place.
Use lots of treats and praise to encourage them and make training fun.
Never force your dog into the crate; encourage them to enter on their own.
Start your dog off with being in the crate for short periods while at home and gradually increase the time as they get more comfortable.
Use long-lasting treats or crate-safe toys while they’re in the crate to make it fun.
Make their crate a comfortable, cozy place by using things like bedding and blankets.

Travel Dog Crate Safety Advice

Always choose a crate the correct size for your dog and ensure it’s sturdy enough for your purposes. Always secure the crate correctly during traveling. It’s crucial to make sure your dog can’t escape from the crate to keep them safe.

Travel Dog Crate FAQ

Can dog crates be too big.

Yes, a crate that’s too big can be dangerous, especially when traveling. Choosing the correct size of crate for your dog is crucial.

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

Yes, the right crate can help to keep your dog safe during travel.

Do dogs prefer wire or plastic crates?

Dogs have preferences just like humans, but in general, a dog won’t mind what kind of crate they’re in as long as it’s cozy and comfortable and they are crate trained.

Finding the right travel dog crate can keep your pup safe and happy during travel, allowing you both to enjoy your adventures together. The world is yours to explore!

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Ann-Marie Sharpe

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The 10 Best Dog Crates For Car Travel

May 27, 2023
By Dr. Deborah Fletcher

You want your dog to be secure and comfortable when traveling by car, so you'll need a durable and portable cage. There are several boxes available, but not all of them will fit in your automobile.

How do you go through the possibilities and choose an outstanding model?

Don't worry, we're here to assist you with your shopping. BestForPets ( bestforpets.org ) evaluated the leading models and compiled this list of the best dog crates for car travel .

Each model includes a comprehensive assessment that compares price, weight, kind, mobility, accessories, and warranty, allowing you to select the best alternative.

And if you like to learn more about the features, please refer to our detailed buyer's guide.

Table of contents

K&H Dog Car Travel Crate

Our favorite selection is the K&H Pet Products 7680 Travel Safety Carrier, a well-designed, easy-to-disassemble soft box that hooks to your seats.

This container, available in three sizes and weighing 10 pounds, features mesh sides and folds flat for easy transport. The smallest model is made to fit in the front seat. It is simple to disassemble and seems rather sturdy. You may attach it to your car’s seat belts and headrests.

This crate is expensive and does not come with a carrying case or a mat. We observed that the top plastic pole was not very sturdy during testing, therefore you may need to replace it. Nevertheless, we believe this is the ideal dog crate for automobile travel.

Connects to the seat belts and headrests.
One of the three sizes is compatible with front seats.
Sides with ventilation mesh
Easy to disassemble and packs flat for transport
One year of coverage
Somewhat costly
Not included with carrying case or mat.
Less durable top plastic pole

Pet Gear Automobile Dog Crate

Do you shop on a tight budget? We recommend the Pet Gear PG1020BK Deluxe Travel Carrier as the most cost-effective dog carrier for automobile travel. It is inexpensive and lightweight, making it a terrific bargain.

This extremely tiny crate, which weighs just three pounds and has an attractive appearance, functions as both a carrier and a car seat. It includes zippered mesh doors on the front and top, as well as handy carry handles. The bundle consists of a leash and a fleece pad.

This box had a chemical odor, and the zippers were not particularly robust. With only a single loop to connect to a seat belt, it does not attach very firmly to your seats. Pet Gear has a standard 30-day warranty.

Affordable and lightweight
Compact with a respectable appearance
Carries a child and serves as a car seat.
Front and top zippered mesh doors
Carry handles, a tether, and a fleece pad are included.
Basic 30-day warranty
Some chemical scent
Not very firmly attached to the seat
Less durable zippers

Petmate Sky Car Travel Dog-Kennel

The Petmate 200 Sky Kennel is a plastic kennel available in several sizes. It is slightly costly, less durable, and more difficult to travel, but it can accommodate larger dogs.

This grey plastic container with side windows and a four-way vaulted wire door weighs 12.5 pounds. The wing-nuts are corrosion-resistant, and the wire is composed of robust steel. The kit contains two “Live Animal” stickers as well as food and water dishes with clips.

When we examined this container, we discovered that the carrying handle was poorly secured and readily detached. There are no seat belt connectors, and the entire box is bulky and cumbersome to move. Petmate provides an annual warranty.

Classic plastic design
Four-way vaulted steel wire door with wing-nuts that do not corrode
Various sizes
Includes “Living Animal” stickers and food and water dishes with clips.
Less durable handle
No seat belt attachments
Heavy and quite costly

A4Pet Collapsible Travel Dog Crate

The A4Pet Soft Collapsible Dog Crate is a portable but less sturdy alternative.

Even though it weighs 9.3 pounds, this box is easy to fold and transport. There are top and side doors, as well as a changeable cloth cover and a steel frame. The rounded corners prevent damage to your chairs, and the locking zippers prevent your pet from escaping. The package includes a detachable and machine-washable waterproof bottom layer.

We discovered that the mesh was thin and the zippers were weak. Additionally, the cover cannot be machine-washed, and the box does not appear to be particularly robust. A4Pet provides no guarantee.

Simply foldable and portable
Steel structure with detachable fabric covering
Rounded edges and locking zippers
Contains a waterproof, machine-washable base layer
No guarantee
Fairly weighty
Thin mesh and inferior zippers
Not very sturdy overall
The cover is not machine-washable.

Port-A-Crate Petnation Dog Crate

The Petnation 614 Port-A-Crate is fairly priced, portable, and has a whimsical look, however, it is comprised of several less-lasting plastic components and mesh that is not particularly solid.

This 10.9-pound container is surprisingly portable since it folds and buckles together with ease. The amusing bone-shaped windows are made of mesh with a honeycomb design and have a steel frame. The crate includes front and top doors and rounded edges, and it can accommodate dogs up to 70 pounds.

This box lacks a cushion and cannot be secured to your vehicle seats. The plastic bits that keep the frame together are readily broken, and the mesh is not particularly sturdy. Petnation does not provide a guarantee.

Affordable and extremely portable
Fun mesh windows fashioned like bones
Compatible with dogs weighing up to 70 pounds
A steel frame covered with cloth with rounded sides.
Front and top doors
Foldable and buckled for portability
Not compatible with car seat
No pad included
Less durable plastic components
Not a very robust mesh

2PET Foldable Travel Dog Crates

The 2PET Foldable Dog Crate is a lightweight and affordably-priced soft crate with mesh and plastic zippers that are less durable.

This 6.8-pound crate, available in a variety of sizes and colors, features a steel tube frame and a detachable, machine-washable 600D fabric cover. There are built-in water bottle and snack container holders, as well as a top handle that serves as a seat belt attachment. Includes a waterproof mat and a reversible, machine-washable fleece pad.

We discovered that the mesh and zippers on this crate tore easily and broke rapidly. Overall, this product feels less durable and considerably less expensive. 2PET provides an annual warranty.

Lightweight and cost-effective
Variations in sizes and hues
Steel tubing frame with seat belt connection handle
600D cloth cover that is removable, machine-washable, and water-resistant
Integrated holders for water bottles and food containers
Contains a waterproof mat and a reversible fleece pad.
Thin mesh is readily torn.
Less durable plastic zippers
Not extremely sturdy in general

Noz2Noz Indoor & Outdoor Dog Crates

The Noz2Noz 667 Soft Krater Indoor and Outdoor Crate is a heavier, more difficult-to-assemble variant with less durable zippers.

This light green, the 12.4-pound crate is available in five sizes and features a detachable, machine-washable canvas cover. Mastering the frame locking system, which consists of push-button tabs and couplers, may require additional time. The crate also features rounded sides and mesh windows with a tight weave.

We detected no chemical odor when we examined this container, although the plastic zippers seemed considerably cheaper and less robust. The mesh is not durable enough to endure paws, and Noz2Noz provides no warranty.

Available in five sizes
Steel frame with machine-washable, detachable cloth cover
Couplers and push-button tabs for frame locking
Asymmetrical corners and mesh windows
No chemical scent
The more complicated locking mechanism
worse quality plastic zippers and mesh

EliteField Folding Soft Dog Crate with Three Doors

The EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate is hefty, and expensive, and comes with several accessories and a solid guarantee.

This box weighs 17.6 pounds, making it extremely hefty. It is available in a variety of sizes and hues and is meant to be broader and higher, giving your dog more space. It folds quickly because of its steel tube structure, 600D cover, and hex mesh windows.

There are three doors on the top, front, and side to facilitate access, as well as two accessory compartments. The kit has a cushioned shoulder strap, a detachable fleece pad, and a carrying case. A frame locking mechanism and handy reinforced corners are also included.

We found this crate’s seams to be poorly stitched and readily rippable. The mesh and zippers are not sturdy enough to withstand dogs. EliteField provides an excellent two-year warranty.

Multiple sizes and colors are available
Extra-wide and taller for a roomy fit
The frame of steel tubes, 600D cover, and hex mesh windows
Three convenient entrances
Reinforced corners and locking mechanism for the frame
Contains a cushioned shoulder strap, a carrying bag, and a fleece pad.
Two-year assurance
Extremely hefty and relatively costly
Less resilient seams, zippers, and mesh.

Buyer's Guide

Now that you’ve seen our list of the 10 finest vehicle crates, it’s time to make a decision. But which will serve you and your dog best? Continue reading for a concise overview of your alternatives.

Hard or Gentle?

The first important decision is whether to get a hard or cloth crate. Fabric crates, which often feature robust steel or plastic frames with fabric covers, are more portable, foldable for easier transport, and typically less in weight. These cages function best with well-trained, non-chewing, or scratching dogs.

If you have a puppy or a dog with a lot of energy, you may choose a hard crate. These cages are often more robust since they can endure your dog’s clawing and bite more effectively. In return for their resilience, these bigger boxes may be more difficult to transport.

Car Attachments

If you are transporting your dog cage in the car, you may like to be able to secure it to the seat, as you would with a kid safety seat. Secure attachments will prevent your dog’s box from shifting as you stop or accelerate, so ensuring his or her stability. You may need to search for seat belts and headrest attachments, such as robust grips and loops.

Before purchasing a dog cage, you should consider your dog’s size. You may choose to measure your dog and compare the results to the dimensions of each model. Consider that your dog will feel more at ease with additional areas to move around.

Accessories

Are you interested in the assortment of accompanying accessories, or do you only require the crate? There may be washable fleece cushions, waterproof liners, cushioned shoulder straps, and food and water bowls included with dog cages.

Would you like a warranty to safeguard your investment? Several of the examined products provide warranties ranging from 30 days to several years. You may also wish to examine the specifics of your model’s warranty, as it may not cover all components.

Our preferred dog crate is the K&H Pet Products 7680 Travel Safety Carrier , which is a well-designed, reasonably-priced product that folds flat and connects to your seat belts. You may choose the Pet Gear PG1020BK Deluxe Travel Carrier , which is tiny, simple to handle, and includes a beautiful fleece pad if you’re searching for a bargain.

Taking your dog on a road vacation may be safe, economical, and pleasant with the appropriate crate. Don’t forget to put him in his crate if you need to go errands; chances are, he won’t make much noise about being in his crate! BestForPets ( bestforpets.org ) hope that our list of the best dog crates for car travel , along with detailed reviews and a concise buyer’s guide, will assist you in selecting the ideal product for your needs. In no time, you’ll have a car-friendly dog kennel!

Dr. Deborah Fletcher

Deborah R. Fletcher, DVM, is a skilled veterinarian with more than 15 years of experience dealing with companion and exotic animals. She has experience caring for a variety of animals, including household cats and dogs, reptiles, birds of prey, and even primates. Dr. Fletcher is a valuable part of the BestForPets team, where she contributes to their aim of providing pets and their owners with the finest possible treatment and services.

Veterinarian (DVM) Dr. Deborah Fletcher

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Dog Car Crates & Travel Carriers

When transporting your furry friend, it’s important to do so with their comfort in mind. Whether taking them to the vet or on a long trip, a dog travel crate is the perfect thing to keep your pooch stress-free and firmly out of trouble. A dog car crate is a travel must have for lots of dog owners.

Featuring dog transport crates with aluminium frames or protective plastic shells or soft travel dog crates our range is bound to include an option that works for you.

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Car Crates & Travel Carriers

Picking the perfect dog travel crate.

The perfect dog travel crate depends on the size of your dog, the length of the journey you’re taking, and whether it will fit in your car. Here at Lords & Labradors , we offer dog travelling crates in sizes for small, medium and large breeds.

Our mobile pet carrier is a great option for toy breeds, coming fully equipped with a ballistic fabric exterior with breathable mesh for better ventilation and a waterproof bottom for comfort on any surface. For bigger pooches, our car boot dog crates are going to make for a more comfortable experience on those longer journeys.

Find a dog travel crate today at Lords & Labradors

Travelling anywhere can be a hassle, so keeping your four-legged friend stress-free and comfortable is only going to make the journey easier. Get in touch with us to ask any questions or check out our blog about what dog car cage is best for your pet .

We have a 28-day returns policy to help ensure you only end up with the best dog transport crate for your needs. As an additional treat, we offer free delivery on orders over £75. You could receive your dog car crate in as little as three days.

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Why choose transk9, crash tested, here to help, we care about all dogs and have been keeping  them safe for over 20 years..

At TransK9 we enjoy an enviable reputation for providing the highest quality and safest range of dog transit products available within the UK. Our range of dog cages are used, endorsed and recommended by many of the UK’s leading professional Trainers and Handlers.

Designed and manufactured in the UK. Delivered globally.

We take great pride in the quality of our products. From our crash tested designs to only using the most durable materials; we make sure that every dog cage does its job in protecting your dog.

Tailored to your car and your dog

Work. Rest. Play.

Our versatile dog cages are used by the police, rescue services, agility dogs, roadtrip addicts and those family days out… One thing that they all have in common, is that regardless of the journey they can rest assured that their dogs are travelling as safely as possible.

Safe & secure storage drawers

Keep your items safe and secure with our TransLock Secure Vehicle Storage Drawers. Security of valued possessions is something we all take seriously nowadays and at TransK9 we are no exception. Designed to complement various dog boxes within our range, TransLock Secure Storage Drawers are produced to the same exacting standards.

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It's taken a couple of weeks but she's finally decided the car is a fun place to be. Thank you trans-k9 for our fancy new set up!

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This is my space pal! Loves the cage in the back of the disco! Means walkies!

I often get asked what travel boxes I use and I’ve tried all sorts over the years in different vehicles but for me TransK9 boxes work the best.

Hank’s ready for his travels in his TransK9. Fits like a glove and plenty of room. Highly recommend!

Thank you TransK9 for this super duper car crate. I feel really safe and secure, looking forward to going on big adventures now.

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Happy Ride® Collapsible Travel Crate

Order today to receive between August 28 - 30

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Your car-ride companion. Your travel buddy. Your furry co-pilot. No matter his official road-trip title, your dog loves coming along for the adventure. The Happy Ride® Collapsible Travel Crate will give him a comfy place to ride where he'll be safely contained, not restrained.

This dog travel crate is spacious without taking up the entire back seat. It fills up only one seat, so you'll still have room for human passengers. In this roomy crate, your dog will feel like he's lounging in a screened-in porch rather than a travel kennel. The large mesh front and sides let your dog see everyone inside the car and help keep him from getting too hot or cold. It also gives your dog visibility to look out the car window and lets you easily peek into the back seat to check on him.

Inside the dog travel crate is a pad with a fleece cover to help your pet feel extra cozy in the car. The removable fleece cover is waterproof and machine washable, so you can easily wash away dirty pawprints or other messes. The outer shell of the collapsible crate can also be removed and tossed in the washing machine after extra messy adventures.

You won't have to worry about the travel crate moving when your pet does. Loop the headrest strap over the front seat's headrest and pass the seatbelt through slits on the back of the crate to keep it in place. A layer of fabric hides the seatbelt from your pet, so they won't be tempted to use the seatbelt as a chew toy on a long drive.

This car crate has 2 doors that fully unzip to help you easily get your pet in and out of the car, whether the crate is behind the driver's seat or the passenger's seat. The crate also has 2 storage pockets with a hook and loop closure to keep your dog’s leash, poop bags and treats packed and tidy while on the road. There are 2 drawstring openings, one on each side of the travel crate, so you can reach in to give your dog an extra pet (or treat) without unzipping the door.

When you arrive at your vacation rental, or if you need to make some more space in your car, this portable dog crate easily folds down for convenient storage until you and your dog hit the road again. Your pet deserves to road trip in comfort, safety and style. Trust PetSafe® to keep your pet healthy, safe and happy.

Keep your dog from freely roaming around the car while you’re driving
Travel crate folds down for easy storage when not in use
Roomy travel crate gives your pet plenty of space to get comfy during car rides
Mesh front and sides give your pet extra ventilation and visibility
2 drawstring openings allow you to pet your dog or give him a treat without having to open the crate doors
Headrest strap and vehicle seatbelt keep the crate from moving
Seatbelt is hidden between fabric panels so your pet won’t be tempted to chew on it
2 doors on the crate allow your pet to enter from the driver or passenger sides
2 convenient storage pockets to hold treats, leashes and poop bags
Leather handle lets you easily carry the travel crate when expanded
Includes a cushioned pad inside a removable, waterproof fleece cover
Machine washable outer shell and fleece cover, air dry
Measures 27 in L x 19 in W x 28 in H when fully expanded to fit most vehicles, may not fit compact vehicles
For pets up to 60 lb

Specifications

Other similar options.

Happy Ride® Booster Seat

$29.95 - $47.95

Happy Ride® Dog Barrier

Happy Ride® Dog Zipline

Happy Ride® Backpack Pet Carrier

3 in 1 Harness

Busy Buddy® Bouncy Bone™

$6.95 - $20.95

Crash-Tested: Best Dog Crate For Car Backseat

Do you leave your dog in the car to roam freely? Odds are, you risk having him severely injured in the event of an abrupt stop or crash. Just as you would fasten your seatbelt for safety, your dog needs a crate for safety.

Looking for the best dog crate for car backseat? Here are our top 3 recommendations:

Best all-rounder crate – Gunner Kennel

Best for small dogs – Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed
Best for large dogs – 4×4 North America.

Haven’t used a dog crate in your car backseat before? You’re probably wondering which is the best crate? We have covered all it takes to buy the best dog crate for car backseat in this article. Whether you barely know what a dog crate is, or you’re looking to get the best crate for your dog, this article contains valuable information for you. Let’s get started!

What is a Dog Travel Crate, and How Does It Secure My Dog?

If you’re a dog owner, you already know the essence of a dog crate. You want to keep your dog in a crate to prevent unnecessar y movement.

A car backseat crate is more or less a mobile cage, where you can put your dog to restrict unnecessary roaming. A car dog crate is basically meant to protect your dog during a car ride.

Leaving your dog to roam freely in the car can be dangerous , especially when an unusual event occurs. If your pet is not protected during that event, the force could pull your dog through the windshield . This may result in injuring you, other persons in the car, and your dog too.

Here’s a slow-motion video showing what happens to a dog secured with a safety belt when the car stops suddenly. It’s scary! I hope it’s scary enough to make you think twice about your dog’s safety in a car.

Also, unrestricted dogs in a car can distract you while driving. This may force you to take your eyes off the road for a few seconds to correct your misbehaving dog.

While you could be fast enough to re-focus on driving safely after correcting your misbehaving dog, it doesn’t happen all the time. It can result in an accident . So, you want to put your dog in a crate before you begin the journey—to keep you and your dog safe .

Choosing a Dog Crate for Car Backseat: What to Consider

If you’ve decided to get a car backseat dog crate, there are certain things you need to consider to ensure a good purchase.

A dog crate should be crash-proof to guarantee the safety of your dog. So you want to make sure you purchase one that has passed the crash test. But how can one verify if a dog crate has passed the crash test? You’re going to find the answer in this article, including other factors that will guide you on which crate is suitable for your dog.

What size of dog crate is suitable for my dog?

There are different sizes of dog crates for your car backseat on the market. You want to get the one that fits with your dog.

Find out the size of your dog and get one that is big enough for your dog to roam about a bit. You want your dog to be able to sit, stand, and turn around in the space.

But the crate should not be too large : something that fits and allows a little space for stretching. Basically, you should get a dog car crate that is not longer than 6 inches.

To know the size of your dog, follow these measuring tips:

Length . Begin the measurement from the tip of your dog’s nose to the end of the tail. When you get the size, add extra inches to the measurement obtained—perhaps two to four. This is to maximize the size of the crate for comfort .
Height . Start from the ground to the tip of your dog’s head and ears. This is to make sure that your dog stands up easily while inside. Add some extra inches too for enhanced comfort .

Keep in mind that your pet needs to turn around or stretch while inside the crate.

And more importantly, you want your pet secured inside. So, do not overextend the inches. Otherwise, the purpose of getting a car backseat dog crate is null as your dog can still get injured in a much wider crate when an accident occurs.

What distance are you looking to travel with your dog?

You probably have heard of dog motion sickness .

Yes, that’s right: dogs can get sick in cars just like humans do. It is real, especially if your dog is not used to traveling for long hours in the car.

Before you buy a car back seat dog crate, you have to define how you want to use it. Are you just going to use it for a short car ride with your dog, or are you aiming to travel with them for extended hours?

The response to these questions should inform your decision to opt for a dog travel crate. The size alone doesn’t account for comfort. You also need to consider the materials the crate is made of. This could help prevent motion sickness.

Are all dog crates safe?

Not all dog crates on the market are safe.

Comfort inside a crate is secondary to safety. The most significant reason for getting a crate is to protect you and your dog from injury in the event of an accident. An unrestrained dog may become a flying projectile inside the car when an accident occurs.

The dog may collide with you and other persons in the car, which can injure you, the dog, and other persons as well. So, by protecting the dog, you also protect yourself . And that’s not all—you can prevent your dog from distracting you while driving.

However, you should know that your dog can still be in a crate and get injured when an accident occurs—as the crate will go flying. This happens when the crate is not crash-proof .

So, the best thing you want to do is to ensure that you get a dog crate that has passed the crash test. Otherwise, you’re putting your dog at risk even with a travel crate (non-crash tested or failed crash test).

How do I know if a dog crate is crash-proof?

Like other dog safety products, a crash test is also carried out on dog crates to ensure the dog’s safety when traveling. This test is conducted by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS), a non-profit research organization established in 2013. CPS started testing dog safety products after realizing that there were no measures for testing pet safety gadgets.

The video below shows crash test simulations of three dog crates:

Hard plastic dog crate sitting on top of the back seat of a car (at the 1:30 mark and 1:57);
4×4 North America Variocage (one of our recommendations) in the back of the car (2:18);
Soft-sided dog crate sitting on top of the back seat of a car (2:51); and
Gunner Kennel crate (another one of our recommendations) (3:26).

So, to know if a dog car crate is crash-proof, you should check if it has been tested by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS) . You can find this information on the product description.

However, you cannot trust all products that claim to have been tested by the CPS. Some manufactures are mainly using it as a marketing technique to get more sales. You should not fall for this—we have recommended three dog travel crates in this article—that have actually passed the CPS test. Also, to be sure that you’re buying a brand that is crash-proof and not just marketing gimmick, check feedback from existing users.

Online marketplaces such as Amazon have tons of users’ feedback on products they have used.

Also, there are other popular reviews sites like TrustPilot , Yelp , etc. Also, Google reviews.

The goal is to find a place where many users have left feedback about the product you intend to buy and ensure the platform is trusted.

What Are The Features To Look Out For in a Dog Crate?

You also want to consider the features of a travel crate before buying. If you have no idea what features you need in a dog travel crate, here are the essential features to consider.

Features to Look out for in a Dog Crate

Top 3 crash-tested car backseat dog crates.

The Gunner Kennel dog travel crate is a versatile crate when it comes to size . It is suitable for small, medium, and large dogs. For large dogs, it houses dogs up to 75 lbs and 110 lbs.

The different sizes available include G1 for small, G1 medium, G1 intermediate, and G1 large. All sizes are quite durable.

However, for protection against accidents, only the G1 intermediate has passed the Center for Pet Safety crash test. The G1 intermediate still works for large dogs and other medium size dogs.

It all depends on the size of your dog. You should measure your dog to know the size before you proceed to get a crate.

More so, the G1 intermediate is also proven to be a bulletproof crate—after it was tested with a 12-gauge gunshot by the manufacturer. This further shows how sturdy the crate is and can safeguard your dog in case an accident occurs. Of course, it is crash-proof! And it’s suited as a dog crate for the rear car seat.

Comfort is also considered: the inside of the crate is spacious and lets your dog stand or turn around and stretch.

Key Features

The outside is made with a robust double walled-plastic. Also, it features sturdy connection straps, dual locking feature, and rubber grip feet. This ensures its durability and protection for your pet.

It is spacious enough to keep your dog comfortable. You can add toys inside to keep your pet busy and happy.

The G1 Kennel is crash-proof, as examined by the CPS. The manufacturer also tested and confirmed it to be bulletproofed. This shows the crate can protect your dog in the event of an accident.

It is available for small, medium and large dogs.

Gunner Kennel crate - pros and cons

Manufacturer profile.

Gunner Kennels is the manufacturer of this crate. based in the U.S., they specialize in manufacturing pet safety products and other pet accessories. The majority of their products have been tested and confirmed by the CPS.

Best crate for small dogs – Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed

Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed is perfect for a car back seat dog crate.

While it serves as a dog crate to keep your dog safe and comfortable in the car, it can also be used as a pet bed in your home and a dog carrier. The Mini size suits small dogs that weigh up to 7 lbs. The Medium is suitable for dogs up to 15 pounds.

Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed has been certified by the Center for Pet Safety. That means you’re sure of your pet’s safety when traveling with him in this crate.

Also, many users have attested to the sturdiness of Sleepypod in car crashes.

If you have a small dog, you want to choose this crate as it is designed mainly for small dogs with exceptional features for comfort and safety.

Key Features

Sleepypod is made with tough materials to withstand any crash and also last longer. It’s specifically made with nylon used in luggage for the outside of the pod. The inside is made with polyester that is ultra-plush.

This crate is more or less a mobile bed, the inside materials—ultra-plush padded polyester, makes a comfortable bed for your pet.

Re: safety, this crate has been crash-tested by the CPS and confirmed to keep your dog safe in the car.

Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed - pros and cons

Manufacturer.

Sleepypod is a top pet safety products manufacturer with branches in the USA, Canada, and Europe. All their products undergo in-house testing as well as tests by professional bodies to authenticate their safety.

Best crate for large dogs – 4×4 North America

If you own a large breed, you may want to consider going for the 4×4 North America crate .

While it is famously known to house large dogs, the crate also features other sizes for small and medium-size dogs.

All sizes can be adjusted to fit with your dog, so you won’t have to be too exact with your dog size as you can adapt it to your dog’s size. It can also be adjusted to fit with your car backseat .

If you are looking more for a dog cage for the back seat of a car rather than a dog crate, the 4×4 is more that style.

4×4 North America is quite durable . It is designed with sturdy materials like gauge still to keep your pet safe while in the car. The materials also ensure its durability—so you do get value for your money.

This crate has also undergone the crash test and proved to be safe . And interestingly, it was crash tested with government standards in Europe and the USA. What this means is absolute peace of mind for a dog owner traveling with his pet in this crate.

More so, the crate comes with hydraulic motions springs for easy locking and opening of the doors.

It is also equipped with an emergency escape hatch for extra security.

It is constructed with gauge steel. That’s a tough material that guarantees the longevity of the product as well as its protection for your pet.

It is size adjustable. The crate can be adjusted to allow space for your dog to be a bit free inside–for comfort. Users may decide to add a mat or toys inside for enhanced comfort.

It is ideal for keeping your pet safe—successfully passed government standards crash test.

Ideal for large dogs with other sizes for small and medium-size pets. Each size can also be adjusted to fit with your pet.

4x4 North America - pros and cons

4×4 North America is manufactured in the USA by 4×4 North America, Inc. The company is famous for producing several other good quality pet safety products—usually tested and confirmed to be safe.

Are There Other Ways of Protecting a Dog in the Car?

Yes, there are other means of protecting your dog when traveling in a car. But we all want the safest means, and nothing beats a crash-proof dog crate for a car backseat.

Nonetheless, here are other ways to secure your dog in a car.

Dog Seat Belt

You can use a dog seat belt to buckle up your pooch before you start a short car journey. Seat belts for dogs can help restrict your dog from roaming around.

Most dogs’ seat belts usually come with straps that can fit into the car frame.

However, this only works if your dog is well behaved . Some dogs love to chew the straps. You know what that means–the dog automatically regains freedom to roam inside the car, which could be very risky.

Harnesses work with dog seat belts.

Most seatbelts require a harness to buckle the dog firmly while also giving some space to stand, sit or stretch a bit.

Harnesses are attached to a seat belt to confine your pet to a specific position while traveling.

Seat belts and harnesses work hand in hand and have the same downsides. Your dog can chew the straps.

Using a dog guard in the boot

You can also fit a dog guard in your car boot/trunk to prevent your dog from being thrown forward in the event of an accident.

The guard should bolt to the floor and roof of your vehicle to avoid being knocked out of position.

However, not all guards will fit your car. It can be difficult to find one.

Backseat barrier

Another way to protect your pet in the car is to install a backseat barrier . This works mostly for larger dogs that may struggle to remain calm when restrained.

The barrier helps to protect your dog on the backseat in case you suddenly brake or an accident occurs. However, this isn’t crash-tested, and may not help during an accident.

The barrier also comes with a strap that should be attached to your car frame.

Tips for Making Your Dog Comfortable While in the Crate

While a dog crate is designed to keep your dog secured and comfortable in the car, it doesn’t work for all dogs.

Your dog may find it challenging to get accustomed to a crate, especially for the first time. Here are a few tips to keep your dog comfortable in the car.

Dogs love toys , as you may know already. Get his favorite toys and put them inside the crate. This can keep your dog busy throughout the journey.

Some dog crates may come with a floor surface that keeps your dog comfortable. But if you do not have such a crate or you think the surface is not good enough, you can get a mat for this purpose.

A mat will make the flooring a lot more comfortable for your dog. Also, your pet can feel at home with a mat inside the crate.

Train your pet at home first

Another good way to keep your pet comfortable in a crate is to get him used to a crate. Train your pet at home to get used to crating so that it won’t be strange for him to remain inside a crate for more extended periods while traveling.

What To Do If Your Dog Gets Car Sick

If your dog is not used to traveling in the car, especially for longer hours, odds are your dog may get car sick . It is common among young dogs. Signs of car sickness in dogs include:

Excessive drooling
Licking lips or Smacking.

If you notice any of these signs in your dog while traveling, there are some measures you can take prior to the car trip to prevent motion sickness and some measures to take during the car trip.

What to do during the car trip

Relieve stress.

Make the ride more comfortable for your dog.

If you do not already have toys, get toys for your dog to keep him busy.

Dog crates may help prevent your dog from falling sick. In the case of vomit, the crate can help contain the vomit.

Also, get anxiety wraps and dog appeasing pheromones for your dog. They help reduce feelings of anxiety.

Viewing pleasures

Your dog’s tummy may get upset by the motion of a moving car.

This usually happens when the dog is not able to see the road. So, you want to make sure your dog can have a view of the road. But this should be from a retrained position —likely inside a crate.

While you may be fine inside a locked car for several hours, your dog may not feel good without fresh air . You should open the windows a bit for your dog to sniff some fresh air.

What to do before the car trip

Here’s a video from vet Chris Brown with some useful tips.

This is more of a preventive measure. You should feed your dog several hours before you embark on a journey. This reduces the chances of vomiting and will possibly not feel sick.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What’s the difference between a dog cage and a dog crate.

A dog crate and cage may almost mean the same thing.

However, the difference is that a dog crate is portable , and often used for transporting a dog in a car or airplane.

A cage, on the one hand, is used at home, it’s large and not portable to put inside a vehicle. A dog cage is used to contain a dog—with a large space for playing, defecating, etc.

Think of a dog crate as a mobile cage.

Why aren’t wire crates suitable for transporting dogs in cars?

You already know the essence of putting your dog in the crate is to protect him from getting injured or killed in the event of an accident. This is what a wire crate can’t offer you. They are not crash-proof and have been reported to collapse quickly. Also, the metals may, in turn, injure your dog.

How do you secure a dog crate in a car?

When you have your dog with you in the car, like children, you want to know they will be safe and secure should the car shift or slide in the event of an abrupt stop.

Unless the manufacturers specify on their instructions that the crate should rest on the back seat of the car and be buckled up – don’t do it. Instead, if the crate fits, place it flat on the floor of the back seat of the car, directly behind the front seat. This is how to ideally secure a dog crate in a car.

What are the safest dog crates for car travel?

The safest dog crates for car travel in the back seat are the 3 crates we’ve recommended in this article:

Gunner Kennel
Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed
4×4 North America.

Is there such a thing as crash-tested dog crates for cars?

Yes. The 3 crates we recommend in this article are crash-tested by the Center for Pet Safety.

Are non-crash-tested dog crates OK to use?

It’s risky to use a dog travel crate for the car that is not crash-proof or has not been tested at all. It means you’re putting your dog at risk.

What should I put in the crate during the car ride for my dog?

Your dog needs comfort while in the crate. You should put items like toys and mats to keep them comfortable.

Do I put food or water in the dog crate during the car ride?

To avoid car sickness, you shouldn’t feed your dog just before, during a car ride or while traveling. It is best to feed your dog several hours before you hit the road. So, do not put food or water inside the crate in the car.

How do I reduce dog anxiety in the car?

You should keep your car temperature cool inside. Also, lower the windows for fresh air and always feed your dog several hours before the journey. Medications can also help, talk to your vet about anti-anxiety medication.

Keen On Crates?

There are many different kinds of dog crates on the market. We’ve covered crates that enable your dog to travel safely in cars in this article. Maybe you are looking for a dog crate to put at the back of your car and not on the back seat? We’ve got you covered. Click here to read about the safest dog crate for large dogs and large cars.

We have other articles on Outdoor Dog Fun that would make an interesting read if you are looking for or have a crate at home for your dog. We hope you find these articles an interesting read.

Best crate buying guide
Leaving water in a dog crate at night – good or bad idea?
It’s getting cold: keeping your dog warm in their crate at night
You’ve heard some toys aren’t safe to leave inside a crate. Find out why.

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Michelle loves enjoying the outdoors with her dogs. She grew in a big house near the beach with German Shepherds. Nowadays, Michelle has down-sized her dogs to poodles, proving small dogs can enjoy the outdoors too! Her dogs enjoy playing fetch, swimming, and long walks. Michelle and her dogs enjoy escaping the city limits to hike, camp, and swim.

Dog Road Trip Essentials: What to Pack for a Safe and Enjoyable Journey

Heading out on the road with your dog soon? Read this guide first to make sure the car ride is an enjoyable, safe experience.

This article was written by veterinarian Dr. Pippa Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS , as well as Petful editor Kristine Lacoste . Tamar Love Grande, Allison Gray, and Kristen Youngs also contributed. This article was reviewed by Dr. Elliott and was last updated on August 21, 2024

If you have questions or concerns, call your vet, who is best equipped to ensure the health and well-being of your pet. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. See additional information .

Planning a Dog Road Trip? Here’s What You Need to Know

How to keep your dog safe in the car, safety first: keep your dog in the back seat, getting your dog comfortable with the carrier, temperature awareness, hotels, motels, and camps, vet visit before long car trips, paperwork and identification, food and water, traveling with kids, recognizing motion sickness in dogs, creating positive associations, step-by-step desensitization, 3 golden rules for success.

Car Climate
Travel Medications
How Dangerous Is it to Let a Dog Ride in the Back of a Truck?

How Dogs Can Ride Safely in a Truck

If you’re planning a road trip with your dog, it’s essential to ensure both safety and comfort.

Before you hit the road, consider these key dog road trip essentials:

Safety First : Use the right harness or carrier to keep your dog secure during the journey.
Best Gear for Car Travel : Choose the most suitable harnesses or carriers for dogs in cars.
Longer Trips : Plan for longer trips by making frequent stops and ensuring your dog stays comfortable.
Avoiding Dangerous Situations : Never let your dog ride in the back of a pickup truck.
Preventing Motion Sickness : Take steps to prevent motion sickness before the trip begins.

By following these tips, you can make your road trip with your dog safe and enjoyable.

Ensuring your dog’s safety during a road trip is crucial. Here are some dog road trip essentials to keep in mind:

Use Proper Restraints : Always restrain your dog with appropriate vehicle safety items to prevent distractions and potential injuries.
We recommend the PoyPet No-Pull Dog Harness for its reflective vest and dual leash connections.
Seat belts that attach to your car’s seat belt.
Seat belts that clip into the seat belt lock.
For ease of use, consider the PetSafe Adjustable Strap .
Important : Always attach the seat belt to your dog’s harness, not the collar, to avoid strangulation.
Secured with your car’s seat belt.
Provide a comfortable, elevated place for your dog to sit.
Double as a cozy dog bed, especially when lined with a blanket.
Consider the Kurgo Car Booster Seat for Small Dogs for long-lasting comfort and durability.

By following these tips, you’ll ensure that your dog’s road trip is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable.

Photo of the Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel, a heavy-duty dog travel crate. It is dark brown and light brown, with a wire door and windows.

Dog Carrier: A Must-Have for Safe Road Trips

Transporting your dog safely during a road trip is essential. One of the top dog road trip essentials is a hard-sided dog carrier, also known as a travel kennel or crate. Securing your dog in a carrier in the back seat can significantly reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accident.

The Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel is highly recommended for its durability and safety, having performed impressively in tests by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS).
Ensure the carrier is large enough for your dog to stand, sit, lie down, and turn around comfortably.
Place the carrier in the back seat and secure it with the seat belt to prevent sliding.
Avoid overloading the carrier with items that could cause injury or take up too much space.
Choose a carrier with good ventilation to allow proper airflow.
Always secure your dog in the back seat, never in the front.
Avoid distractions by keeping your dog out of your lap or off the dashboard.
Keep the door open and place your dog’s favorite items inside to encourage exploration.
Ensure proper ventilation and prepare for any messes by having a plan to clean the carrier safely.

By following these tips and using a secure dog carrier, you can ensure your dog’s safety and comfort during road trips.

Advice for Traveling With a Dog on Longer Car Trips

Longer road trips with your dog require careful planning to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort. Here are some dog road trip essentials to consider:

Monitor Temperatures : Always be aware of the temperature at your destination and along the way. Never leave your dog in the car, as temperatures can rise or fall to dangerous levels quickly.
Hot Weather : Even in mild temperatures (like 75°F), the inside of a car can become dangerously hot within minutes. Lowering the windows is not a safe solution and may allow your dog to escape.
Cold Weather : Dogs can suffer from hypothermia in cold temperatures. Keep extra blankets on hand and never leave your dog in a cold car.
Plan Ahead : If your trip includes overnight stays, check pet policies, costs, and other concerns before booking.
Dog-Friendly Accommodations : Make a list of dog-friendly places along your route to ensure you have options when you need to stop.
Health Check : A vet visit before the trip is essential, especially for longer journeys. Ensure your dog is healthy enough to travel.
Discuss Sedation : If your dog is prone to anxiety or stress during travel, discuss sedation options with your vet. Never self-medicate your dog with human or other animal medications.
Microchip Your Dog : Consider getting your dog microchipped before the trip for added security. Learn more about getting your dog microchipped .
Carry Important Documents : Keep copies of your dog’s rabies vaccination, health records, and a current photo in three places: in your car, attached to the carrier, and with you at all times.
Updated Tags : Ensure your dog’s collar has current tags, and bring an extra tag in case one needs to be replaced during the trip.
Limit Food Intake Before Travel : To reduce the risk of sickness or nausea, limit your dog’s food intake before hitting the road.
Pack Extra Food and Snacks : Bring enough pet food and snacks for the entire trip, as stores may not carry your dog’s usual brand. Changing food during stressful travel can lead to stomach issues. More about stomach upset and diarrhea in dogs .
Bottled Water : Take plenty of bottled water with you to keep your dog hydrated throughout the journey.
Plan Regular Breaks : Stop every 3–4 hours to allow your dog to stretch, potty, and drink water.
Clean Up After Your Dog : Bring poop bags and/or a scooper to clean up after your dog during stops.
Keep Your Dog Leashed : Always keep your dog leashed during walks to ensure safety.
Talk to Your Children : If traveling with kids, discuss the importance of giving the dog personal space without distractions.
Hitting or shaking the carrier
Feeding the dog human food or snacks
Teasing, pulling, or opening the crate or releasing the harness

By following these tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable road trip with your dog.

How to Prevent Motion Sickness in Your Dog

Motion sickness is a common issue, affecting 1 in 6 dogs, and can make road trips challenging. Here’s how to prevent motion sickness in your dog and make car travel more comfortable:

Common Symptoms : Shivering, excessive drooling, and reluctance to enter the car are signs that your dog may suffer from motion sickness.
Anticipatory Anxiety : Some dogs may begin to feel anxious even before the car ride starts, as they anticipate the nausea associated with travel.
Playtime in the Car : Start by playing with your dog’s favorite toy in the back seat of your parked car. This helps your dog see the car as a fun place.
Reward Calm Behavior : End each car session with a treat and praise to reinforce positive behavior.
Short and Positive Sessions : Keep the sessions short and enjoyable. Take your dog for a walk immediately after, ensuring they remain calm and happy.

By following these steps, you can help your dog overcome motion sickness and ensure a more enjoyable experience on road trips.

Gradual Steps to Prevent Motion Sickness in Your Dog

Overcoming motion sickness in your dog may require a gradual and patient approach. Here are some effective strategies:

Engage in Car Games : Spend a few weeks playing with your dog inside the car, keeping the doors open to prevent feelings of being trapped.
Meals in the Car : Feed your dog inside the car to create a positive association. Consider investing in a waterproof seat cover to protect your seats.
Shut the Car Doors : Start by closing the doors while your dog is inside.
Start the Engine : Turn on the engine but keep the car in park to acclimate your dog to the sound and vibration.
Short Movements : Begin with reversing a few feet, then driving back to the original position.
Increase Driving Distance : Start with a short, straight drive, followed by a trip around the block, and eventually a drive through the neighborhood.
Praise Calm Behavior : Consistently praise your dog for remaining calm during each step.
Avoid Distress : Stop the session before your dog becomes anxious or distressed.
End on a Positive Note : Always conclude each training session with a positive experience, such as a treat or playtime.

By following these steps, you can help your dog gradually overcome motion sickness and enjoy road trips more comfortably.

Car Climate and Comfort for Your Dog

Ensuring a comfortable environment in the car is crucial for preventing motion sickness in your dog. Here are some dog road trip essentials to keep in mind:

Maintain a Cool Climate : A hot, stuffy car can exacerbate motion sickness. Keep the vehicle cool with fresh air circulating at all times.
Window View : Some dogs feel better if they can see out of the window. For smaller dogs, consider using a booster seat or dog pod to elevate them to window level.
Pre-Travel Feeding : Feed your dog a handful of dry biscuits 1–2 hours before travel. This can help prevent an upset stomach, as traveling on a completely empty stomach may increase the risk of nausea.
Frequent Stops : Plan regular stops to let your dog stretch, walk, and hydrate.

Travel Medications for Dogs

If you need to make an urgent journey and don’t have time to desensitize your dog to car travel, medication may be necessary to prevent motion sickness. Here are some options:

Traditional Remedies : Some people use ginger or peppermint, as well as herbal options like skullcap and valerian. However, these remedies are not scientifically proven and may not be reliable for long trips.
Acepromazine (ACP) : A sedative with anti-motion sickness properties. ACP is not ideal for short journeys, as it can make the dog groggy for up to 8 hours. Additionally, some dogs may have an adverse reaction, becoming hyperactive instead of sedated. Always test this medication before a long journey.
Maropitant (Cerenia) : This drug effectively blocks the nausea center in the brain, making it an ideal choice for motion sickness. It works for 24 hours without sedating the dog, though it can be expensive. Learn more about Cerenia .

By managing your car’s climate and using appropriate medications when necessary, you can help your dog have a more comfortable and enjoyable road trip.

Here are a few more great tips from Pet Health Network:

Reintroducing the Car as a Positive Space

To ensure stress-free car travel with your dog, focus on reintroducing the car as a fun and positive place while using medication to prevent nausea. By building new, positive associations and addressing motion sickness, you can pave the way for enjoyable road trips with your dog.

Why Are Dogs Still Riding in the Back of Trucks?

It’s a common yet alarming sight: a dog riding freely in the bed of a pickup truck. This practice is not only dangerous but also illegal in some states. Here’s what you need to know:

The Dangers

Risk of Injury : Dogs in truck beds are at high risk of injury. Sudden swerves, bumps, or stops can cause the dog to lose balance and be thrown around or even out of the truck.
Lack of Protection : Without any form of restraint, dogs in truck beds are exposed to the elements and road debris, further increasing the risk of harm.

Laws Regarding Dogs in Truck Beds

Legal Protections : While many assume that driving with a dog in the back of a truck is illegal everywhere, the reality is that laws are sparse and not comprehensive across the U.S.
Connecticut
Massachusetts
New Hampshire
Rhode Island
For more detailed information, visit the Animal Legal and Historical Center .

By being aware of the risks and legal implications, you can help protect dogs from the dangers of riding in truck beds and advocate for safer practices.

How Dangerous Is It to Let a Dog Ride in the Back of a Truck?

Allowing a dog to ride in the back of a pickup truck is extremely dangerous and can lead to severe injuries or death. Here’s why it’s critical to avoid this practice:

High Fatality Rate : According to DMV.org, thousands of dogs are killed each year while riding in the back of pickup trucks. This statistic doesn’t even account for the many non-fatal injuries.
Exposure to Road Debris : Dogs in truck beds are vulnerable to gravel, dirt, and other debris that can cause serious harm. If these particles can crack a windshield, they can certainly injure a dog’s eyes, nose, or lungs.
Impact Injuries : In the event of sudden braking or swerving, a dog can be thrown from the truck or slammed against the back of the cab, leading to life-threatening injuries.
Ride Inside the Cab : The safest place for a dog in a pickup truck is inside the cab, secured with a dog-friendly car restraint or harness.
Avoid Truck Bed Crates : While some crates can be secured to a truck bed, they do not protect against the dangers of gravel, dirt, or the lack of restraint during sudden stops.
Cross-Tethering Risks : Cross-tethering a dog in a truck bed to prevent falls or jumps still exposes them to the same risks, including debris and impact injuries.

The only truly safe way to travel with your dog, regardless of vehicle type, is to secure them with a dog car seat or harness in the back seat. Taking this precaution may delay your trip by a few minutes, but it could save your dog’s life. For more information, visit DMV.org .

Center for Pet Safety. “Gunner Kennel G1 Intermediate.” June 2015. https://www.centerforpetsafety.org/cps-certified/gunner-kennel-g1-intermediate/ .
Becker, Marty, DVM et al. From Fearful to Fear Free: A Positive Program to Free Your Dog From Anxiety, Fears and Phobias . Fear Free, LLC. 2018.
Horwitz, Debra, DVM, DACVB, and Gary Landsberg, DVM, DACVB, DECAWBM. “Air and Car Travel.” VCA Hospitals. 2013. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/dog-behavior-and-training-traveling-air-and-car-travel .
DMV.org. “Traveling With Your Pet.” https://www.dmv.org/how-to-guides/pet-travelling.php .

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Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate, Travel Dog Crate 24x17x17 with Soft Warm Blanket and Foldable Bowl for Large Cats & Small Dogs Indoor and Outdoor

About this item

A STURDY PET CARRIER: This pet crate is made of high-quality strong fabric and hex mesh fabric,which is foldable,wear-resistant, and easy to clean. Perfect for large cats or small dogs 12-30lbs (such as Malteese, Boston Terrier, Mini Schnauzer, etc.).
BREATHABLE & FOLD-ABLE PET CARRIER: Three access for pets ( top, front, and side), mesh windows for ventilation on all 4 sides. Convenience sunlight and breathability. If you are not going to use it in a short time, you can also fold it down in seconds and store it.
A PET CARRIER WITH MULTI-WAYS TO CARRY: Designed with an adjustable handle and shoulder strap, this pet carrier can be carried by hand and by the shoulder.
COMPLETE ACCESSORIES: A quality plush mat provides a comfortable place for your pet. Includes a comfortable blanket and a collapsible water bowl, Keep the pet comfortable during traveling.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW: Before purchase, pls pay attention to the detailed measurement. If there is any problem, please let us know, and we will reply to you within 24 hours. we love dogs as much as you do!

Petprsco Large Cat Carrier for 2 Cats Small Medium Dogs, Soft Pet Carrier 24x17x17 for Traveling with Warm Blanket Foldable Bowl and Washable Pad

【Large Capacity】Portable folding cat soft carrier, product dimensions: 24*17*17inch size for a cozy ride, perfect for medium to large cats or 2 cats. Hold pets up to 55 pounds. Please measure your pet size before purchasing.
【Sturdy & Best Materals】Made with strong & lightweight steel and solid 600D Oxford cloth , you can finish seting up or folding down in seconds. And the left & right handles on the top make it more convenient to carry.
【Fresh air & A better view】 Strong mesh materials on 4 sides which can encourage fresh air flow and provide a better view, also three opening doors make your pets easily in and out of carrier. And side pockets can put some snacks and toys.
【Useful accessories & Safety setting】Here are one removable & washable plushy pad and one warm blanket and one foldable travel bowl. Buit inside adjustable leash and auto lock zipper on door can keep pet secure.
【Multi-Function and Great for Travel】You can use it as a crate at home or a car seat in a car. Of course, if You have an SUV, it can also be used in the trunk. Let your pet follow you on a happy and relaxing trip or carry your pet to see a doctor easliy.

Petprsco Portable Dog Crate, Collapsible Dog Travel Crate 32x23x23 with Soft Blanket Foldable Bowl and a Poop Bag with Dispenser for Medium & Large Dogs

【Large Capacity&Portable】Portable medium dog crate: 32*23*23inch, perfect for medium & large dogs(such as Border Collie, samoyed, bulldog, etc.). Hold pets up to 25- 50 pounds. The soft dog crate can be folded/unfolded easily without tools in seconds, it is easy to store and save space.
【Sturdy & Anti-collision protection】Made with strong & lightweight steel, strong 600D Oxford cloth, and special anti-bite mesh. There are anti-collision protection pads on the four corners to protect the pet cage from wearing and tearing, as well as protect home decoration and car interiors.
【Fresh air & better view】Solid mesh materials on 4 sides can encourage fresh air flow and provide a better view. Also, three doors allow your dog to come and go freely. It's a great idea to be used in the trunk to carry your pet on a happy & relaxing trip or carry your pet to see a doctor easily if you have an SUV.
【Useful and thoughtful accessories】The collapsible dog crate is equipped with a plushy mat for extra comfort, which is removable & washable. What's more, there is one warm blanket, one foldable travel bowl, one poop bag, and a dispenser, your lovely pet must fall in love with them.
【Safety setting &Convenient Design】A adjustable leash attached to your pup’s collar and lockable zippers on the door can keep the pet secure inside. The handle on the top makes it more convenient to carry, and side pockets can put some snacks and toys.
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Dog that vanished from crate at atlanta airport discovered safe — three weeks after disappearance.

A traveler’s beloved dog that vanished after escaping from its Delta Airlines crate in Georgia was found safe and healthy Saturday — after spending more than three weeks on the lam.

Maia the chihuahua mix was found by a good Samaritan hiding beneath a cargo rack at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta.

“I didn’t say a word and walked to the end of the rack and started scooting under it on my back. It was about 10 inches off the ground,” local animal activist Robin Cole Allgood said on Facebook.

“I got to her and she still hadn’t noticed I was behind her…I took a deep breath and just grabbed her around the waist without hesitating. The next thing I hear is someone yell ‘Robin’s got her!!!!'”

Though tired, the canine appeared to be in good health and was taken to a vet for a full evaluation, the airline confirmed.

Maia had been missing since she darted out of her crate on Aug. 18 while her owner, Dominic Republic native Paula Rodriguez, was being questioned by border agents, her lawyer said.

Rodriguez was forced to return to her home country instead of her San Francisco destination over missing visa credentials — even as officials admitted her pet was nowhere to be found.

Delta offered Rodriguez $1,800 for the tragic incident, which the dog owner felt was an “insult” that couldn’t replace her cherished pet, her lawyer said.

That’s when Allgood stepped up to the task by posting signs around the airport for the missing dog, which turned out to be vital to Maia’s rescue.

A FedEx cargo employee called Allgood at 2:30 a.m. Saturday to report seeing the pup the day before, prompting her to rush to the airport.

Allgood said the airport staff led her on multiple “wild goose chases” before finally escorting her to the North Cargo facility around 6 p.m.

By that time, the mother realized she was going to miss her flight to Hawaii with her family — but decided the vacation could wait another day, while the pup could not.

“I couldn’t leave without finding Maia. I had promised Paula in the beginning I was going to find her!” Allgood said.

The group of airport workers and Allgood eventually discovered Maia hiding beneath outdoor cargo racks, but had difficulty reaching the frightened pooch.

Dozens of employees tried removing her from her narrow hiding spot with wildlife nets, long poles and barricades surrounding the spot.

But the efforts proved fruitless.

“Everyone was standing around talking about what to do next…me being me decided I’m going for this dog,” Allgood recalled.

She shimmied beneath the rack and successfully brought Maia to safety.

A veterinarian reportedly said the dog was in incredible shape considering she had been lost for 24 days in Atlanta’s blistering summer heat.

Remarkably, Maia’s paw pads suffered no heat damage, a suggestion that she may have only maneuvered through the airport grounds at night — which also explains why she had gone so long without being seen.

Maia’s owner is reportedly over the moon after hearing the good news and looks forward to being reunited with her cherished family member.

What next legal steps Rodriguez will take is unclear.

Her lawyer had been in talks with Delta in the aftermath of Maia’s disappearance, especially after the airline offered the $1,800 mishandling offer which it later defended, claiming it was not an “offer of compensation”

The Rodriguez family spent an undisclosed amount of money and resources trying to find their beloved pet themselves.

Rodriguez’s mother flew to Atlanta herself to search for the lost pup after her daughter was denied entry into the country.

Kemerovo Airport

Kemerovo, kemerovo oblast–kuzbass, russia.

55.2701 55° 16' 12.35" N

86.107201 86° 6' 25.92" E

Facitlity Type

Operational

2024-08-24T08:45:08

2024-08-24T15:45:08+07:00

Asia/Novokuznetsk

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Kemerovo Oblast, Russia

The capital city of Kemerovo oblast: Kemerovo .

Kemerovo Oblast - Overview

Kemerovo Oblast is a federal subject of Russia located in the south-east of Western Siberia, part of the Siberian Federal District. This region is also known as Kuzbass . In 2019, “Kuzbass” officially became the second name of Kemerovo Oblast. Kemerovo is the capital city of the region.

The population of Kemerovo Oblast is about 2,604,300 (2022), the area - 95,725 sq. km.

Kemerovo oblast flag

Kemerovo oblast coat of arms.

Kemerovo oblast map, Russia

Kemerovo oblast latest news and posts from our blog:.

11 February, 2019 / Kemerovo - the view from above .

21 April, 2016 / The carnival-parade at the festival GrelkaFest in Sheregesh .

2 June, 2013 / Summer snowfall in Kemerovo .

9 February, 2012 / "BelAZ 75600" - the biggest truck in the former USSR .

31 October, 2010 / The ship-house in Kemerovo oblast .

History of Kemerovo Oblast

People began to settle in what is now the Kemerovo region several thousand years ago. The indigenous peoples of the region were Shortsy and Teleuts. In 1618, Russians founded Kuznetsky stockaded town in the south of the present region to protect Russian lands from the raids of the Mongols and Jungars. In 1698, Mariinsk was founded.

In 1721, Mikhailo Volkov found “burning mountain” (a burning coal seam) on the banks of the Tom River and thus became the person who discovered the Kuzbass coal deposits. Industrial development of this land started at the end of the 18th century.

During the 19th century, the territory of the Kemerovo region was part of the Tomsk province. During this period, the first industrial enterprises appeared here: Tomsk ironworks, Gavrilovsky and Gurievsky silver plants, Suharinsky and Salairsky mines. Construction of the Trans-Siberian Railway was one of the main reasons for the rapid development of the local industry.

More historical facts…

In Soviet times, the region became part of the West Siberian krai, and then - Novosibirsk oblast. The development of the coal, metallurgical and chemical industries continued: Kemerovo Coke Plant, Kuznetsk Metallurgical Plant, a lot of new mines. The workers’ settlements built near the industrial enterprises quickly obtained the status of towns: Kiselyovsk, Osinniki, Krasnobrodsky, Tashtagol, Kaltan, Mezhdurechensk and others.

During the Second World War, this region was a major supplier of coal and metal. More than 50 thousand tanks and 45 thousand aircraft were produced using steel from Novokuznetsk. 71 industrial enterprises were evacuated to Kuzbass from the occupied regions, most of them remained in the region after the war.

In 1943, Kemerovo Oblast became a separate region that included 17.5% of the territory and 42% of the total population of Novosibirsk Oblast. After the war, the region continued to grow rapidly. On September 18, 1984, about 100 km from Kemerovo, a peaceful underground nuclear explosion was carried out, the power of the explosive device was 10 kilotons.

In the 1990s, the region’s economy declined. However, by the end of the 20th century, there were some positive developments - the development of the coal industry in the first place. Special attention was paid to the development of open-pit coal mining, as a more effective and safe way.

Beautiful nature of Kemerovo Oblast

Mountain stream in the Kemerovo region

Author: Sergey Timofeev

On the shore of a small lake in Kemerovo Oblast

Kemerovo Oblast landscape

Kemerovo Oblast - Features

Kemerovo Oblast is one of the few Russian regions that has a recognized and well-known alternative name “Kuzbass” - the abbreviation of “Kuznetsk coal basin” occupying a large part of the territory of the region.

It is the most densely populated part of Siberia. The length of the region from north to south is about 500 km, from west to east - 300 km. Russians make up more than 90% of the population. There are small nations of Shortsy, Teleuts, Siberian Tatars who have preserved their cultural traditions.

The climate is sharply continental with long cold winters and warm short summers. The average temperature in January is minus 17-20 degrees Celsius, in July - plus 17-18 degrees Celsius.

Today, about 86% of the population of Kemerovo Oblast lives in cities and towns making it one of the most urbanized regions of Russia. The largest cities are Kemerovo (548,000), Novokuznetsk (540,000), Prokopievsk (185,000), Mezhdurechensk (95,400), Leninsk-Kuznetsky (91,600), Kisilyovsk (83,700), Yurga (79,700), Belovo (70,100), Anzhero-Sudzhensk (65,700).

Sheregesh, a village located at the foot of Zelenaya Mountain in Tashtagol district, is one of Russia’s most popular ski resorts. The ski season lasts from November to May. Kuznetsky Alatau Reserve and Shorsky National Park are the main natural attractions.

Kemerovo Oblast plays a significant role in Russian industry. The following mineral resources are mined here: coal, gold, silver, iron ore, manganese ore, aluminum, nepheline ore, lead, zinc, barite, quartz, limestone, clay, dolomite, sand.

Kuznetsk coal basin is one of the largest coal basins in the world. The most important centers of the local coal industry are Prokopyevsk, Mezhdurechensk, Belovo, Kemerovo, Novokuznetsk, Osinniki, Leninsk-Kuznetsky. Coal mines can be found almost everywhere in the Kemerovo region. About 180 million tons of coal is mined annually.

Rail transport is well developed in the region. The Trans-Siberian Railway, the South Kuzbas branch of West Siberian Railway cross its territory. There are large airports in Kemerovo (Kemerovo International Airport) and Novokuznetsk (Spichenkovo Airport).

Kemerovo oblast of Russia photos

Pictures of kemerovo oblast.

Kemerovo Oblast scenery

Author: Sergey Ustuzhanin

Autumn in Kemerovo Oblast

Winter in Kemerovo Oblast

Author: Max Palchevsky

Landscapes of Kemerovo Oblast

Churches in Kemerovo Oblast

Orthodox church in Kemerovo Oblast

Author: Yury Marchenko

Church in the Kemerovo region

Author: Ludmila Boriskina

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Top 8 Best Dog Crates and Carriers for Car Travel Reviewed
CAR DOG TRAVEL CRATE MINI ONE
Petsfit Dog Travel Crate for Car,Foldable Soft Dog Crate,Lightweight
6 Best Dog Crates for the Car

COMMENTS

10 Best Dog Crates & Carries For Car Travel: 2024 Reviews & Ratings
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.
The Best Dog Crates for Car Travel 2024
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.
9 Best Dog Crates for Car Travel (Crash-Tested in 2024)
2. Dakota 283. Dakota283 features a series of secure dog crates bespoke for car travel. These are the G3 kennel, the original Kennebec kennel, the T1 low profile kennel, the 2D side entry kennel, and the Dakota hero kennel. While these are unique products, the G3 kennel can be identified as common.
Best Dog Crates for Car Travel of 2024
Buy From Amazon. Finding a dog crate for car travel that suits big breeds can be tough, but Lucky Duck makes one of our favorite kennels ideal for medium to large dogs. With a capacity to hold ...
10 Best Dog Crates for the Car (Reviews Updated 2024)
3. Petnation Port-A-Crate. The Petnation Port-A-Crate is a lightweight soft crate that works great for transporting your dog. It is made from a tight-weave mesh over a folding steel frame. Available in four sizes, it is a great option for crate trained dogs up to 70 pounds.
The best crash-tested dog crates in 2024, tried and tested
Gunner G1 Kennels — $550 (small), $650 (medium), $700 (intermediate) and $900 (large) Rock Creek 30-Inch Stationary Dog Crate — $744. MIM Safe Variocage Single — Starting at $930 for the ...
Best Dog Crates For Cars: Protect Your Dog With These Crates & Carriers
Gunner Kennels' crash-tested dog crate is our favorite combination of portability and security. This crash-tested dog crate comes from a crate manufacturer out of Nashville, Tennessee. These crates were created by Founder Addison Edmonds, a hunter who grew tired of replacing plastic crates after heavy use.
The 15 Best Travel Dog Crates & Carriers [2023]
The 8 Best Travel Dog Crates for Cars 1. Basic Dog Crate That Can Fold Down for Easy Storage ... Plastic Carry Crate for the Trunk of Your Car 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.
14 Best Dog Carriers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed by Editors
Shop the best dog travel carriers and crates for planes, cars and trains. Browse airline-approved and everyday carriers from Away, Sherpa, Wild One and more.
Best Dog Crates For Car Travel In 2024
The 9 Best Dog Crates for Car Travel. 1. Amazon Basics 2-Door Collapsible Lightweight Soft-Sided Folding Travel Crate Dog Kennel - Best Overall; 2. Frisco Travel Safety Dog Carrier - Best Value; 3. Pettycare Collapsible Crate for Large Dogs - Premium Choice; 4. PetSafe Happy Ride Collapsible Dog Travel Crate; 5. Petsfit Collapsible Dog ...
Best Dog Crates For Car Travel 2024
1) Impact Collapsible Dog Crate. Where To Buy: impactdogcrates.com. Impact Collapsible Dog Crate (Photo: hellobark.com) We like the Impact Collapsible Dog Crate for a number of reasons in the context of a dog crate for car travel. It's been carefully and thoughtfully engineered to aide dog owners and their pets who like to travel together.
10 Best Travel Crates for Dogs in 2022
Pros: A portion of the proceeds goes to charity, waterproof, and lightweight. Cons: More expensive than other brands. 3. AmazonBasics Portable Folding Travel Kennel. See it on Amazon. A soft crate, this product comes in five different sizes to accommodate many different sizes of dogs, weighing up to 70 pounds.
7 Best Dog Crates For Travel (Safe For Cars & Airlines)
Sturdy and secure. Great for air and car travel. The Petmate Two Door Top Load Dog & Cat Kennel is 1 of the best dog crates for air travel or car travel, as well as providing a cozy home base for your precious pooch. Steel wire and durable plastic are combined to make a safe, secure crate for small breeds.
The 10 Best Dog Crates For Car Travel
K&H Dog Car Travel Crate. Our favorite selection is the K&H Pet Products 7680 Travel Safety Carrier, a well-designed, easy-to-disassemble soft box that hooks to your seats. This container, available in three sizes and weighing 10 pounds, features mesh sides and folds flat for easy transport. The smallest model is made to fit in the front seat.
Dog Car Crates & Travel Carriers
The perfect dog travel crate depends on the size of your dog, the length of the journey you're taking, and whether it will fit in your car. Here at Lords & Labradors, we offer dog travelling crates in sizes for small, medium and large breeds.. Our mobile pet carrier is a great option for toy breeds, coming fully equipped with a ballistic fabric exterior with breathable mesh for better ...
Car dog cages, crates & transit boxes for cars & vans
At TransK9 we enjoy an enviable reputation for providing the highest quality and safest range of dog transit products available within the UK. Our range of dog cages are used, endorsed and recommended by many of the UK's leading professional Trainers and Handlers. slide 2 of 6. Designed and manufactured in the UK. Delivered globally.
Happy Ride® Collapsible Travel Crate
Happy Ride® Collapsible Travel Crate. Happy Ride® Collapsible Travel Crate. $149.95. Out of Stock. Order today to receive between August 23 - 25. Free Shipping on orders over $ 49. Satisfaction Guaranteed Return your product within 45 days. Commonly purchased with. Your car-ride companion.
Crash-Tested: Best Dog Crate For Car Backseat
Best all-rounder crate - Gunner Kennel. The Gunner Kennel dog travel crate is a versatile crate when it comes to size. It is suitable for small, medium, and large dogs. For large dogs, it houses dogs up to 75 lbs and 110 lbs. The different sizes available include G1 for small, G1 medium, G1 intermediate, and G1 large.
Best Dog Car Seats, Carriers, and Restraints for 2024
The Best Dog Car Seats, Crates, Carriers, and Restraints. Best Overall . ... The Drive Safety Travel Dog Car Harness was tested by Automotive Safety Engineering of Australia.
Dog Road Trip Essentials: What to Pack for a Safe and ...
One of the top dog road trip essentials is a hard-sided dog carrier, also known as a travel kennel or crate. Securing your dog in a carrier in the back seat can significantly reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accident. ... If you need to make an urgent journey and don't have time to desensitize your dog to car travel, medication ...
A4Pet Small Dog Car Seat for Small Dogs
A4Pet Small Dog Car Seat for Small Dogs - Dog Booster Car Seat for Small Dogs Under 25, Portable Dog Crate for Car Seat with Patent Buckles, Clip-On Safety Leash, Pet Travel Carrier, Fits Most Cars . Visit the A 4 Pet Store. 4.6 4.6 out of 5 stars 188 ratings. $33.98 $ 33. 98.
Amazon.com : Feandrea 32 Inches Collapsible Soft Dog Crate, Portable
Feandrea 32 Inches Collapsible Soft Dog Crate, Portable Travel Dog Crate for Indoor and Outdoor Use, Dog Carrier Kennel with Safety Zippers, for Living Room, Car, Travelling, Campin, Dark Blue UPDC80Z . Visit the Feandrea Store. 4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 517 ratings.
Amazon.com: Petprsco
Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate, Travel Dog Crate 24x17x17 with Soft Warm Blanket and Foldable Bowl for Large Cats & Small Dogs Indoor and Outdoor ... 【Multi-Function and Great for Travel】You can use it as a crate at home or a car seat in a car. Of course, if You have an SUV, it can also be used in the trunk. ... 【Large Capacity ...
Dog that vanished from crate at Atlanta airport discovered safe
A traveler's beloved dog that vanished after escaping from its Delta Airlines crate in Georgia was found safe and healthy Saturday — after spending more than three weeks on the lam.. Maia the ...
Kemerovo Airport UNEE
Kemerovo Airport UNEE Kemerovo, Kemerovo Oblast-Kuzbass, Russia
Kemerovo Oblast
Kemerovo Oblast — Kuzbass, also known simply as Kemerovo Oblast (Russian: Ке́меровская о́бласть) or Kuzbass (Кузба́сс), after the Kuznetsk Basin, is a federal subject of Russia (an oblast). Kemerovo is the administrative center and largest city of the oblast. Kemerovo Oblast is one of Russia's most urbanized regions, with over 70% of the population living in its ...
Kemerovo Oblast, Russia guide
Kemerovo Oblast is a federal subject of Russia located in the south-east of Western Siberia, part of the Siberian Federal District. This region is also known as Kuzbass. In 2019, "Kuzbass" officially became the second name of Kemerovo Oblast. Kemerovo is the capital city of the region. The population of Kemerovo Oblast is about 2,604,300 ...
Kemerovo Oblast Map
Kemerovo Oblast. Kemerovo Oblast is a region in Western Siberia, which borders Altai Krai to the southwest, Novosibirsk Oblast to the west, Tomsk Oblast to the north, Krasnoyarsk to the northeast, Khakassia to the east, and Altai Republic to the south. Overview. Map. Directions. Satellite.

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

Join our pup pack!

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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 Best Dog Crates for Car Travel 2024

My pick for best dog crate for the car

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

Best dog travel crate for safety

GUNNER Kennel

Best dog travel crate for larger vehicles

Best dog travel crate budget pick

In the Event of a Car Accident

What to Look for In a Dog Crate for Car Travel

Size and Fit

Crash-testing

Strap Loops

Ventilation

Sizing Your Dog Crate for the Car

Comparison of the best dog crates for car travel

Top Pick for Dog Crate for Car Travel – Gunner Kennels

If you can’t afford a Gunner – Dakota 283

Best Budget Pick – RuffLand

Do you use a dog crate for car travel?

9 Best Dog Crates for Car Travel (Crash-Tested in 2024)

Why Trust Me?

9 of the Best Dog Crates for Car Travel

Features to Look for in Dog Crates for Car Travel

Where to Put Travel Dog Crates in the Vehicle?

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Best Dog Crates for Car Travel of 2024

The Bottom Line

Things To Consider When Buying Dog Crates for Car Travel

How We Chose the Best Dog Dog Crates for Car Travel

WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?

About Our Team

Sophia Carlisle

Kayla Randolph

10 Best Dog Crates for the Car (Reviews Updated 2024)

Best Dog Crates for the Car

1. MidWest Homes for Pets Dog Crate

2. AmazonBasics Folding Metal Dog Crate

3. Petnation Port-A-Crate

4. EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate

5. Noz2Noz Soft-Krater

6. Petmate Sky Kennel

7. Aivituvin Soft-Sided Pet Travel Carrier

8. Petmate Two Door Top Load

9. SportPet Designs Travel Dog Crate

10. Impact Collapsible Aluminum Dog Crate