best travel dog crate uk

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Best dog crates in the UK to keep your pet calm and secure in the car

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Car journeys with the pooch are not always easy.

Taking one too many right turns can somehow alert even the tiniest of pups to an incoming trip to the vet, while longer journeys can make restless dogs clamber dangerously over gear sticks and steering wheels in the hope for some attention.

Likewise, while we all love to see our dog’s joyous, goofy grin with their head and tongue wagging in the wind, this isn’t exactly the safest of driving habits – especially when it comes to A-roads and motorways.

Though some dog-owners might think that crate-training is only useful when it comes to ensuring your pup is able to sleep securely by themselves, crates are just as important when it comes to providing safety and comfort on the go as they are at home.

That said, the extra-large crate that you bought for your dog to ‘grow into’ probably won’t fit in your car boot. You’ll need a second option which is equipped with either sloped sides or a collapsible, soft fabric material if you’re thinking about driving around the UK with your furry friend in tow. Once you’ve trained them to get into a crate in the first place, that is.

If you’re not convinced that a car crate is the way forward, consider this. In the event of a car accident, a sturdy crate will help to keep your pet safe and minimise potential harm caused by the impact.

Plus, from an aesthetic and allergy-driven perspective, keeping your dog in a crate during car journeys prevents dog hair from re-upholstering your car seats.

Not only are you keeping your dog safe while on the move in a crate, but you’re also limiting the shedding clean-up to one spot. Easy as pie.

Best dog crates for the car in the UK at a glance:

Best for a sloped cage that will fit most cars: Ellie-Bo Deluxe Sloping Puppy Cage Medium - £54.39, Amazon
Best for a sloped cage for hatchbacks: PawHut Metal Dog Car Crate - £40.99, Amazon
Best for use at home and in the car: Ellie-Bo Dog Crate - £41.12, Amazon
Best for a non-metal crate: Petsfit Dog Crate Large Foldable Dog Crate - £68.95, Amazon
Best for small dogs: Wimypet Dog Car Seat Booster for Small Dogs - £26.29, eBay
Best for extra security: Cozy Pet Aluminium Car Dog Cage - £129.99, Amazon
Best for large dogs: Ferplast Atlas Car Dog Carrier Maxi Medium/Large - £198.05, Pharmacy Loreto
Best for crate-free protection: Rosewood Dog Car Guard - £31.99, Lords and Labradors
Best for easy cleaning: Streetwize 30 Slanted Car Crate - £44.99, Lords and Labradors

Keep scrolling for a round-up of the best dog crates to keep your pet calm, safe and secure in the car.

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Ellie-Bo Deluxe Sloping Puppy Cage Medium

Best for: a sloped cage that will fit most cars

The reason as to why this crate has over 2,000 five-star reviews on Amazon is simple. Many dog crates made for cars have two sloped sides, which limits both your dog’s space and the crate’s ability to slot neatly into your car boot. This crate from Ellie-Bo, however, has one sloped side and one flat side.

It’s available in small (24”) and medium (30”) sizes and is also offered in either a deluxe or standard format. The former includes a plush dog bed, while the latter has a standard non-chewable metal bottom. In both options, the bottom is easily removable for cleaning.

The crate folds flat for easy storage and is equipped with a carry-handle for easy manoeuvring. And to top it all off, it comes with a handy training guide.

PawHut Metal Dog Car Crate

Best for: a sloped cage for hatchbacks

With its larger height, extended bottom, and sloped front, this spacious crate is perfect for hatchbacks and big car boots. It features a large door which is secured by a latch so that your pup can hop easily in and out. It is also made from a powder-coated metal which is rust-resistant and extra secure.

This one is made from plastic, which means that it isn’t the greatest option for nervous riders who end up chewing everything in sight. Nevertheless, this crate has an open-feel which makes it a good option for anxious pups, and is collapsible for easy storage.

Ellie-Bo Dog Crate

Best for: use at home and in the car

If you’ve got a particularly big car with an extra-large boot, you probably don’t have to worry about purchasing a separate crate to fit inside your vehicle. This fantastic crate form Ellie-Bo is made from the same sturdy materials as the brand’s deluxe sloped version and is available in an array of sizes. From small (24-inch) to extra-large (42-inch), this brand has you, and you doggo, covered when it comes to crate training both at home and in the car.

Petsfit Dog Crate Large Foldable Dog Crate

Best for: a non-metal crate

If your pup is known to attack the bars of metal crates like a cartoon prisoner, or metal simply isn’t your style, a foldable crate made from softer fabrics might suit both your pet a little better.

The collapsible iron pipe frame which lines this carrier ensures that it is strong and sturdy enough for use within the car, while the 600D Oxford Cloth surrounding the crate provides a durable yet comfortable feel. With four ventilated mesh windows on each side of the crate, your dog will feel at-ease while remaining safe and secure.

Wimypet Dog Car Seat Booster for Small Dogs

Best for: small dogs

Despite this brand’s strangely diminutive name, your little pup is by no means wimpy. However, they might be a little excitable and desperate for affection while you’re driving. Though this piece of kit isn’t technically a crate, its high sides and seatbelt attachment make it an incredibly secure way to keep little dogs close while driving.

Cozy Pet Aluminium Car Dog Cage

Best for: extra security

Crafted from tough aluminium and black timber, the Cozy Pet Dog Cage is a great option if you’re looking for a crate that will become a permanent fixture in your car. Available in a wide range of sizes, we’d recommend this crate if you’re on the move with your pup on a daily basis.

This model also comes with a removable divider if you’ve got more than one dog travelling with you at a time. It requires flat-pack assembly, which means it can be broken down as easily as it can be built-up – making a storage a breeze when it’s not in use.

Ferplast Atlas Car Dog Carrier Maxi Medium/Large

Best for: large dogs

A lightweight option complete with a removable divider and plastic-coated steel door, you can’t go wrong with a classic plastic crate. This option is also equipped with a hygienic draining mat for easy-cleaning in case of any spills or accidents along the way.

Rosewood Dog Car Guard

Best for: crate-free protection

If, despite our very best efforts, we’ve failed to convince you to purchase an extra-large crate, or your Great Dane is simply too large for one, then a car guard is certainly the next best thing. Easy to install, this guard will fit most estate cars, hatchbacks, and SUVs – with its height and width also adjustable.

With additional security clips to prevent your dog from clambering over the backseat, we’d recommend this option to dog owners who can’t fathom fitting their large dog into a crate, or simply can’t find a crate that will fit in their car.

Streetwize 30 Slanted Car Crate

Best for: easy cleaning

The Streetwize 30 Slanted Car Crate is an uber-safe way to travel with your furry companion. It features a sleek, slanted design which grants greater visibility and comfort while the reinforced walls ensure your dog's safety. The piece is easy to assemble and even easier to clean, making it the prime pick for mucky pups post-walk.

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The best dog crates to buy in 2023

Lottie Gross

Being in the doghouse doesn't have to be a bad thing - these are the best, comfiest dog crates around

Crate training can be a fraught time for puppy owners, and finding the best dog crate for your pet is essential to your success. The crate will become your dog’s bed and a safe space they can retreat to when they are tired or overwhelmed, so finding the best dog crate is key to their happiness – and yours.

Dog crates are an excellent tool to help with toilet training small puppies, as creating a comfortable, enclosed sleeping space where the dog is unlikely to want to mess will help them hold onto their wee overnight. Dog crates can also help ensure pets don’t get separation anxiety, as sleeping in a crate will get them used to spending time alone in their own space. Dog crates also act as a great barrier between the animal and any dangers within your home and they stop the dog from being a danger to others, such as when there are small children around.

Of course, choosing the right crate is important and there are numerous factors you need to consider before investing in a dog crate for your pet. In this article, we’ve explored all the options and found the best dog crates for various situations, including for puppies, adults and for when you’re travelling.

Best dog crates: At a glance

The best dog crate for car travel: Mimsafe VarioCage Double
The best dog crate for puppies: Pawology Wire Crate
The best dog crate for travelling: Feandra Dog Carrier

How to choose the best product for you

What should i look for in a dog crate.

Firstly, all dog crates must be sturdy – especially if your puppy is going to grow into a larger dog. Many are made from metal, which is usually the most robust material. Plastic and fabric crates are more easily damaged, especially by exploring teeth, so metal is usually the best option.

A double door opening system is another key feature on the best dog crates. Having a door on both the side and end of the crate means it can be stored in various positions, and if one is damaged your pet can still get out using the alternative. Also look out for removable trays in the bottom for easy cleaning in case your dog does have any messes inside the crate.

How big should my dog crate be?

Your crate should be large enough for the dog to stand up, turn around and lie down in, and there should be a bit of extra room for stretching out. Of course, if you have a puppy, you’ll need to consider their future growth. Ideally, you should buy a crate large enough for your puppy to sleep in when it’s fully grown, but ensure it has a divider inside which you can use to make the crate smaller or larger as they grow – this will help with toilet training, as they won’t want to soil the crate near their bedding.

READ NEXT: Our favourite dog harnesses and leads

1. Mimsafe VarioCage Double: Best dog crate for your car

Using dog crates in the car is a great way of keeping your pet secure and safe while abiding by the motoring regulations around travelling with pets. The Mimsafe dog crates are the best option for car travel with your dog because of their robust safety testing and the variety of options available.

There are compact crates for hatchback cars, but the sophisticated VarioCage Double is the best dog crate by Mimsafe. It fits into the boot of the car and allows space for one large breed dog or two medium/small dogs, and it has adjustable dividers to separate two animals. It’s fully adjustable for different vehicles (ranging in size from 73cm x 59cm x 93cm to 92cm x 84.5cm x 106cm), but the really neat part is how safe it is: it’s crash tested and shock absorbent, so not only keeps your dog safe but it also prevents the passengers from being impacted by the crate if you have a collision at the back of the car.

Key features – Material: metal; Other sizes available: Yes; Alternative Colours: No; Adjustable: Yes; Portable: No

Buy it now from Mimsafe

2. Pawology Wire Crate: Best dog crate for puppies

This classic wire crate is simple but effective and is great for use with puppies which will grow into much larger adults. It has a divider so you can start with a smaller area when they’re young, and there’s a removable tray in the bottom to make it easier to clean if there’s any mess made. The Pawology dog crate comes in two sizes (91cm and 106cm respectively) and it’s fully collapsible for easy transportation.

This excellent dog crate also has two doors – one on the side and another on the end – which allows for flexibility when used in different places, such as the home versus the car. It’s made from robust metal with a soft black coating, and the doors also have a double locking system so your dog won’t be able to force their way out.

Key features – Material: metal; Other sizes available: Yes; Alternative Colours: No; Adjustable: Yes, with a divider; Portable: Yes

Image of PAWOLOGY Wire Dog Crate 36 inches w/ Divider Double Door, Collapsible and Portable Folding Metal Kennel, Heavy Duty, Removable Tray, Indoor/ Outdoor

PAWOLOGY Wire Dog Crate 36 inches w/ Divider Double Door, Collapsible and Portable Folding Metal Kennel, Heavy Duty, Removable Tray, Indoor/ Outdoor

3. feandrea dog crate: best dog crate for travelling.

Carrying heavy metal dog crates can be unwieldy if you’re travelling a lot, so you might want to opt for a collapsible fabric dog crate. The Feandrea is lightweight at around 3.5kg but still incredibly sturdy thanks to its metal frame. It’s easy to construct and there are carry handles for moving it about. There are three doors on this dog crate: on the side, the front and the top.

The Feandrea comes with a foam insert that has a comfortable fleece cover so your dog will love to settle inside this crate, and it has some handy clip-on bags that can be used to store accessories, treats or medication for your dog when travelling. The only downside to this crate is that the door zips aren’t hugely robust, so this crate is best used with dogs that are comfortable being crated. Sizing ranges from 70cm x 52cm x 52cm to 91cm x 63cm x 63cm.

Key features – Material: Fabric & metal; Other sizes available: Yes; Alternative Colours: Yes; Adjustable: No; Portable: Yes

FEANDREA Dog Carrier, Folding Fabric Pet Carrier, 70 x 52 x 52 cm, Dark Blue

4. lords & labradors wooden sliding door crate: the best wooden dog crate.

Dog crates don’t always have to be ugly and this Lords & Labradors Wooden Sliding Door Crate is proof of that. Made from solid wood, it’s an attractive piece of furniture for any room in the house which doubles up as a dog crate with a sliding door that fastens with a latch. There are black steel bars to keep the dog safe inside and there’s a drawer above for keeping treats and other necessities.

You can add on cushions that fit perfectly in the space, and the base is fully removable for easy cleaning. There are small and medium versions (28cm x 74cm and 62cm x 88cm respectively, both 88cm high), and a larger version measures 71cm x 98cm x 105cm for bigger dogs. This is very much a permanent piece of furniture, so it’s not suitable for travelling.

Key features – Material: Wood & metal; Other sizes available: Yes; Alternative Colours: Yes; Adjustable: No; Portable: No.

Buy it now from Lords & Labradors

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Best dog crates: a safe haven for the home and the car

Dog products

There was a time when people frowned on dog crates as if owners were putting their dogs behind bars, but crate training is now a recognised part of a puppy’s upbringing. Smaller than the best puppy playpens , the best dog crates offer a safe space, where they can retreat when they are tired or overwhelmed. They are also invaluable to help puppy toilet training , ensuring puppies don’t wreak havoc in the house when left unattended or leave them exposed to any dangers at home, and can help with separation anxiety as they grow to understand the crate is their sanctuary. With that in mind, it’s essential to choose the right crate to ensure your dog is safe and happy.

There are various practical factors we need to consider. The crate must be robust. Crates for the home are usually made from metal, as this is not easily damaged or chewed and therefore is durable enough to last for years. On the other hand, if you are travelling, a heavy metal crate is unwieldy so you might want to choose one of the best soft dog crates that can be easily dismantled and folded away. Some of the metal cages can also be folded but they are not as easily transportable. They might look uncomfortable, but you fill it with one of the best dog beds for crates and it’ll soon look fit for a king.

If you are buying for a puppy, make sure you factor in how big he will grow, because the crate should last him for life. He will look tiny in a vast crate initially, but he will gradually grow into his new home without need for the disruption of “moving house”. You can get a divider to make the crate smaller, which will help with toilet training as they won’t want to make a mess in their own space.

Removable trays are a bonus, as it makes cleaning much easier. And double doors – one on the side and the end – means you are not limited as to where you keep the crate.

Best dog crates

Midwest Homes For Pets iCrate

Sizes: 11 options | Colours: Black, pink or blue | RRP: From £26.99 |

This very popular crate now has added security features to keep your pet safe, including slide-bolt door latches with a patented paw block. The crates include a divider panel, leak-proof pan base, protective rubber feet and a carry handle.

It’s available in a wide range of sizes and some of the larger sizes are available with two doors. It folds flat for travel.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk In the US? View now at amazon.com

Henry Wagg Folding Fabric Dog Crate

Sizes: S–L | Colours: Grey | RRP: From £34.99 |

This folding travel crate is designed for use both while travelling or in the home. It is lightweight and collapsible, and comes with a zip mesh access door, as well as zip assembly with no spare parts required.

The inner floor pad is washable and comes with foam insulation.

The crate has its own carry case and ground pegs if you want to keep your dog enclosed outdoors – handy at a picnic to keep those sausages safe!

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk , viovet.co.uk or petsandfriends.co.uk In the US? View now at amazon.com

Walnut & Ivory Pueblo Modern Dog Crate

Sizes: S–XL | Colours: Walnut, white, grey, black or green | RRP: From £230.07 |

For those who like their dogs to live in splendour, these crates blend in with your furniture. Handmade from plywood and water-based wood wax, these crates can be personalised with your pet’s name.

You can also order a cushion cover in ivory, grey, black, navy, brown or pink.

In the UK? View now at etsy.com

Ellie-Bo Dog Puppy Cage

Sizes: S–XXL (24–48in) | Colours: Black or silver | RRP: From £54 |

The Ellie-Bo is a metal dog crate which folds flat for easy storage or transportation, and is easy to set up without the need for any tools.

There are two doorways for easy access, with sliding latch mechanisms on each door to secure the crate. It has a steel non-chew removable metal tray for easy cleaning. Cage dividers are also available .

In the UK? View at amazon.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

Kong Two Door Ultra-Strong Dog Crate

Sizes: S, M, M/L, L or L/XL | Colours: Black | RRP: From £42 |

The Kong dual-door is a rust-resistant crate with triple-lock protection, so ideal for those Houdini dogs. It comes with an adjustable divider panel to allow the crate to grow along with your pet. The door-design is reinforced with durable and secure features, including angled slide-bolt latches and overlapping doorframes for enhanced security. This crate has a heavy duty construction with heavier gauge wire than most.

It is designed with rounded corners and finished edges to prevent irritating scrapes and knocks. This crate can be folded away.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or petsathome.com

The best crate beds for a cosy doggie haven

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

Dog Crates & Carriers

WRITTEN BY:

April 23, 2024

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

Dogs love the open road as much as we do!

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

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

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

But don’t worry — we’re here to help!

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

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

Safest Dog Crates & Carriers for the Car

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

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

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

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

1. Diggs Passenger Carrier

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

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

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

Size & Dimensions :

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

2. Gunner G1

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

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

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

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

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

Safety:

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

3. Sleepypod Atom

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

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

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

4. Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed

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

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

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

5. Sleepypod Air

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

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

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

6. Sleepypod Mini

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

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

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

7. Away Pet Carrier

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

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

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

8. Lucky Duck Kennel

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

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

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

9. MIM Variocage Single

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

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

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

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

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

Safety Reports:

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

10. Ruff Land Kennel

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

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

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

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

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

Why Dogs Need to Be Secured in the Car

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Search For A Safe Dog Car Crate

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Key Lesson: Don’t Believe The Marketing

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

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

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

CPS Crash Worthiness Study & Testing Plan

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

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

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

How The CPS Testing Works

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

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

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

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

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

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

Give Careful Consideration to Where the Crate Goes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For Larger Dogs, Security Is Even More Important

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

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

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

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

Additional Things to Seek in a Car Carrier for Dogs

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

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

How Do I Measure My Dog For a Car Carrier?

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

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

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

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

Distraction Prevention Vs Crash-Proof Power

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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.

Featuring dog transport crates with aluminium frames and protective plastic shells , 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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Best Dog Car Crates of 2023

Written by Joshua Gordon
Last updated December 16, 2021

Support ThePetJourney.com. We may have included affiliate links in this article. Read more about how we make money .

Our Top Picks

Gunner Kennels G1 Dog Car Crate
K&H Pet Products Travel Safety Carrier
Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed

What is a Dog Car Crate?

A dog car crate, also known as a travel crate or portable kennel, is essentially a box that you can place your dog into for transport.

Many people choose to use a dog car crate because it helps to contain doggy mess, whether it be dog hair or drool. On top of that, it’s also widely considered to be the s afest way to travel with your pet , whether it be a short trip to the vet, or a longer car journey.

It is also possible to purchase a seat belt for your dog, but a crate is usually a safer and more comfortable option for them.

Best Overall Dog Car Crates

After researching, testing and reviewing tons of dog car crates, we’ve highlighted our top choices to help narrow down your search for the ideal car crate for your dog.

At thepetjourney.com we review products as honestly as possible, highlighting any weaknesses found, as well as why we like each one.

Gunner Kennel G1 Dog Car Crate

The first dog car crate I chose to feature here is made in America by Gunner Kennels.

This is one of the sturdiest and most durable dog car crates on the market at the moment. Featuring rotomolded double-walls, it provides twice the impact protection of a normal crate. Plus, it’s been awarded five stars for safety, following rigorous crash-testing carried out by the Centre for Pet Safety.

It’s not the cheapest crate on the market, but I think it does represent great value for money. It will be ideal for you, if you’re looking for the best car crate on the market for safety.

It comes in four different sizes, making it suitable for almost any size dog. But you should be aware that the crate is pretty heavy and does increase as you go up in size. The medium (for example) weighs 38 pounds when empty, so you’ll have to be very strong to be able to lift it, especially with your dog inside.

However, it will work great if you want a permanent crate solution in your car. The crate has integrated stainless-steel, tie-down pins that will ensure the crate stays put in the event of a collision.

It also features an escape-proof, reversible door system. This crate comes with a lifetime warranty.

Although the initial cost is higher than some other crates, its quality and durability means that this is a long-term investment.

Awarded five stars for safety from the CPS
Incredibly durable build
You can also buy accessories for this crate (for comfort etc)
Integrated tie-down pins
More expensive than some other doggy car crates
This crate is pretty heavy against some others

K&H Pet Products Travel Safety Carrier

The travel safety carrier from K&H is a different type of crate entirely.

It is a soft-sided crate that obviously won’t provide anywhere near the same kind of impact protection than the Gunner model.

But having said that, it will still be great for keeping your pet restrained while you’re driving and it looks much more inviting and comfortable than the first crate.

It has durable mesh sides, meaning it will be much lighter to carry and it also means your pet can still see all around them while on the move.

This travel system comes in three different sizes to suit a variety of dog breeds, but it may not be strong enough for larger or more boisterous dogs.

This carrier fixes securely into your car with two straps that feed around the headrest and into the car’s seat belt system. It’s nice being able to fix two straps to the seat, keeping the crate more securely in place. The last thing you want is for the crate to slip around while you’re driving, or if you have to perform an emergency stop.

When it’s not in use, you can fold the carrier flat which is also really great if you’re low on storage.

Lightweight carrier
Mesh sides allow your dog to see out more easily
Budget-friendly
Comes with a comfortable base pad
Foldable design is great for storage
Doesn’t provide the same level of protection as many other crates
Not as durable as many other crates

The Sleepypod is primarily marketed as a pet bed, but it doubles as a car crate, so your dog feels completely at home when secured in your car. And this is definitely one of the most comfortable looking crates we’ve seen.

This versatility is great because you’ll get so much use out of it. Your pooch can use it as a bed, and then you can use it as a carrier, as well as a car crate, to eliminate distraction while driving and increase the safety of your pet.

It has great aesthetics too, coming in a variety of colours such as blossom pink, chocolate brown, jet black and strawberry red. This is great if you are more style conscious and want a car crate that is almost as cute as your pup.

This crate is made of much tougher, luggage-grade material, with a netting cover at the top so your pup can peek out. This material will prove to be extremely durable for most dogs.

Although, if your dog views most things in life to be a chewable challenge, then this might not last too long.

On top of all this and perhaps what you wouldn’t expect, is that it has also been crash-tested by the Centre for Pet Safety. The CPS determined that the Sleepypod performed exceptionally well in tests and that the bed provides great safety in the event of a collision.

Unfortunately, it only comes in mini (13” x 13” x 11”) and medium (17” x 17” x 13”) sizes, making it unsuitable for larger dogs. The medium is supposed to fit pets up to 15 pounds, but it doesn’t look big enough if you ask me. You’ll probably have to look elsewhere unless you have a very small breed of dog or a puppy.

One of the nicest looking crates we’ve seen
Secures easily to the seat with a standard seat belt
Doubles as a mobile pet bed
Performed exceptionally well in CPS crash tests
Only suitable for puppies and small breed dogs
More expensive than some crates

Best large dog car crate

If you’re looking for dog car crate for a larger breed dog;

Gunner Kennels Dog Crate

Best small dog car crate

If you’re looking for dog car crate for a smaller breed dog;

Best puppy dog car crate

If you’re looking for dog car crate for a puppy;

Best soft dog car crate

If you’re looking for softness and comfort in a dog car crate;

K&H Pet Products Pet Carrier

Best sloping dog car crate

If you’re looking for dog crate that slopes for your car boot;

Ellie Bo Slanted Deluxe Car Crate

Best double dog car crate

If you’re looking for dog crate that is designed to fit two dogs;

Midwest Side-by-Side Double Door SUV Dog Crate

How does a pet car crate work?

The concept of a pet car crate is pretty simple in the fact that it will keep your pet contained while you transport them from your home to another destination.

All you need to do is load your dog into the crate, latch the door, strap the crate in and away you go. Having a dog moving about in the back (or front) of the car can be distracting to the driver, presenting a higher risk of accident.

Plus, there’s the issue of comfort. For smaller breeds, for example, a seat belt may exert too much pressure for them to be able to sit comfortably while wearing it. In this case a crate will be a much better choice.

On top of this, if you have a very active dog or puppy that won’t stay seated, then a carrier or crate may also be the only option.

A travel crate can also help keep your beloved pooch much safer in the event of an accident (more on this below).

What else to look for in a good dog car crate

Besides keeping your dog contained and comfortable on your journey, you should also consider the safety, size, materials, and durability of a dog car crate, before making your final purchase.

Below we’ve explained the importance of each factor, so that you can choose the best dog car crate based on your needs and breed.

As mentioned previously, one of the main reasons to purchase a car crate is for the safety of everyone travelling in your car with you and your dog.

At the very least, a dog car crate will mean that your dog is less of a distraction to the driver. When strapped into your car, a crate will also prevent your pooch from becoming a projectile, should you get into an accident.

This is especially important with larger breeds, that are at a greater risk of serious injury in the unfortunate event of an accident. The weight of a large dog will mean that they experience much more force on impact than a small dog would, making a crate or carrier a safer option when in the car.

When positioning your dog crate in the car, you should be aware of where your car’s crumple zones are, avoiding those at all cost. Plus, you shouldn’t place a dog crate on the front passenger seat as the airbag could cause injury as they’re designed for adult humans.

Distraction Preventions vs Crash-Proof Power

You’ll also come across car seats that have been crash-tested, which provide the ultimate safety for your dog and passengers, while on car journeys.

Unfortunately, the vast majority of budget-friendly dog car crates would fail a crash-test. But they’re still worth investing in for the purpose of distraction prevention.

However, if your budget allows, then a (more expensive) crash-tested crate will provide the best protection for your dog in the event of a crash.

The best dog car crate for you and your dog will be one that is big enough for your dog to stand up in. Your dog should also be able to lie down and turn around in the crate.

However, a dog car crate should never be more than six inches longer or taller than your dog.

The more space inside the crate, the more momentum and force they’ll be exposed to on impact. It’s actually the snugness of the crate which helps keep them safe.

Dog car crates are made from a variety of materials. In your search for the best dog car crates, you’ll probably see options made from wire mesh, solid plastic, stainless steel, as well as soft fabric.

If you have a dog that likes to chew everything in sight then you should definitely consider this when it comes to choosing the material your dog crate is made of. The most munch-resistant crates will be made of stainless steel and wire mesh.

However, if you’re looking at buying a wire mesh crate then just make sure that it doesn’t have any rough or sharp edges that your dog could hurt themselves on.

The materials the crate is made from will also affect the safety and durability of the car crate, so you should factor this in when choosing.

If your dog is a small breed with a relatively calm disposition, then a soft fabric crate may work great for your needs. But if you have a larger or more boisterous dog, then you should probably opt for a hardier material and more durable build.

It might be wiser to spend a bit more up-front on your first car crate purchase, so that you don’t have to replace it so often, if ever.

Are car crates safe for dogs?

Your dog may prefer to have his head hanging out of the window for the entire car journey, but for safety reasons, you should keep them comfortably and safely restrained in your car at all times.

Car crates are one of the safest ways to do this, but as mentioned previously they shouldn’t be more than six inches longer or taller than your dog.

While buying a larger crate for your pup will allow growing room for them, it’s not the safest option for traveling.

Crash-tested car crates

If you’re interested in a crash-tested car crate, then you just need to make sure that it was tested properly.

Shockingly, dog car crates aren’t subject to the same government safety standards and regulations that human car products are. Even though the presence of a car crate could potentially affect the safety of other passengers in the car.

Many manufacturers claim that their crates are crash-tested, but due to the lack of regulation, it can be carried out in-house and might not be as rigorous as it should be.

For this reason, when purchasing a “crash-tested” crate, you should only consider crates that have passed the Centre for Pet Safety (CPS) crash tests or one that meet European crash test standards.

That way you know the crate is top-notch when it comes to safety and quality.

Benefits vs limitations of dog car crates

Still wondering if a dog car crate is worth the investment?

Here’s a quick look at the main benefits and limitations of dog car crates, to help you make your decision.

Allows for easier transportation of your pet
Less mess in your car
Less distracting for the driver
Can prevent your pooch from turning into a projectile in the event of a crash
More comfortable for many pups and dogs
Some crates can also withstand car crashes

Limitations

You may need to add blankets for comfort
Fabric crates can be more difficult to clean
Some dogs don’t enjoy being crated
Not all crates are chew-proof

How much does a dog car crate cost?

As with most things in life, the cost of a dog car crate can vary hugely. Expect to pay anywhere between £50 and £100 for a more budget-friendly crate and between £200 and £600 for a crash-tested crate.

The size of the crate will also impact the cost with larger crates costing more.

https://www.centerforpetsafety.org/test-results/crates/

Written by: Joshua Gordon

Head of Research and Editorial, Joshua has over 7 years of experience as a finance and automotive research consultant. He is a childhood pet owner and dog enthusiast.

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The best dog carriers and cages for your car

Keep your dog safe and comfortable on car journeys with carriers and travel crates.

Written by Chris Williams Published: 22 August 2022 Updated: 22 August 2022

To almost everyone, the image of a dog with its head poking out the window of a moving car, its tongue and ears flapping freely, is the epitome of happiness. But not all of Britain’s nine million dogs revere car rides quite so much as that care-free Border Collie in the other lane.

1. Why buy a dog car crate?

2. The best crates and carriers in detail

3. Buying advice

4. Making car travel comfortable for your dog

Why invest in a dog crate or carrier for the car?

It’s a legal requirement to make sure your dog is safely restrained while you travel in the car, and you could be fined if they’re not. Rule 57 of the Highway Code states that dogs need to be restrained to prevent driver distraction, or injury if braking suddenly.

Dog carriers and cages are the obvious solutions for dogs who dread the car, and for owners who wish to keep their dog secure while on the move. A dedicated safe space is better for everyone, including the dog.

At the ultra-practical level, pets that aren’t restrained in any way may not be covered by insurance if you have a crash. It sure would be painful to watch the hundreds of pounds a year you spent on pet insurance go down the toilet because you didn’t bother with a dog cage for the car. Relative to other pet expenses, a faithful car carrier or crate is inexpensive and thoroughly worthwhile.

The best dog carriers and travel crates for cars:

Me and my pets car carrier, best dual-purpose carrier.

Price: Currently unavailable | VIEW OFFER

For little’uns of the dog world, here is a double-use and reasonably priced carrier. You can zip it up and fasten it into place by passing the seat belt through the rear strap. Alternatively, open the top flap, fasten the carry strap behind the headrest, and it becomes a booster seat your small dog or puppy can sit up in.

The dimensions are 44cm x 37cm x 30cm. You can easily collapse it flat when you need to store it and features some useful touches such as storage pockets and durable rubber feet. There is a smaller size too at 40cm x 35.5cm x 26cm.

Pros: Value Ideal for smaller dogs

Cons: Not as durable as solid cages

RAC Fabric Dog Carrier

Best large fabric carrier.

Price: RRP £50 | VIEW OFFER

At 75 cm x 51.5cm x 51cm, RACu2019s large dog carrier is the most generous of three sizes available. This steel frame inside a fabric shell is a fantastically versatile choice that adds considerable safety improvements over fabric carriers without it. Perhaps this also makes for a ‘friendlier’ option than a cold metal cage. Of course, that is entirely subjective.

Because of its squared shape, it’ll fit quite happily on most car seats and can be restrained with a seat belt. The top opens and so too does the front. You can easily wash the fabric cover when (not if) it gets a little mucky.

While it doesn’t have quite the robustness of a metal cage, the trade-off is that it’s very easy to fold away when it isn’t needed.

Pros: RAC dependability and practical design Three sizes available

Cons: Not suitable for dogs that like to scratch

Ferplast Atlas Scenic Car Transport Box

Best solid crate.

Price: RRP £79.99 | VIEW OFFER

This transport crate offers safety, quality and comfort and comes in two different sizes. The solid walls of this crate are plastic and the bars are metal. There are ventilation points all round and a low lip at the door to make it easy for even older dogs to get in and out.

While the design is very secure and protective, there is a trade-off. Because it can be in the boot of a car, this cage is for the journey only. You can’t leave your pet in there for long periods of time. The plastic floor features drainage points for hygiene.

Pros: Great design Safe and secure

Cons: Price jump over fabric carriers

Aluline Double Dog Crate

Best for safety.

Price: RRP £219.99 | VIEW OFFER

Chunky dog cages like these are the best option for safety and peace of mind. We like the Trixie double-unit because it is versatile as well as sturdy. The full size is 80cm x 92cm x 65cm with an angled front for fitting into car boots, but there is a removable divider in order to transport two small dogs, or one medium to large one. However, this is the middle size. Therefore, if you require bigger or smaller, there are other size options too.

While the cage is very solid, you will likely want to add a blanket or mat of some kind to the floor to make it a bit more cosy. You can also purchase a pair of safety straps separately to help keep the crate in place. They are polyester and can hold up to 70 kilograms. It’s not like these should be put to the test, but if they were, it’s nice to know the straps will do their job.

Pros: Roomy for large dogs Very secure

Cons: Relatively expensive

Karlie Transport Box

Best dog crate.

Price: RRP £139.10 | VIEW OFFER

These are not the most attractive pieces of equipment but they are built for a purpose and they fulfil that purpose very well indeed. Unlike the others above, this dog crate is approved for airlines too (always double-check first, of course). There are four sizes for you to choose from, the largest of which provides a generous 50-litre, 100x67x75cm space. The larger sizes also come with removable wheels to make transporting even easier.

In keeping with its strict functionality, the upper and lower parts can be separated and stored inside one another. In order to click together, there are lockable hinges. The side windows offer light and air for comfortable travelling.

Pros: Light Sturdy

Cons: Not very aesthetic

Dog car crate/travel crate buying advice

If you have a puppy that is still growing, wisdom suggests getting a carrier that will continue to fit once it has grown to size. It’s not like your children’s jumpers that need upsizing every year or two; one well-planned dog cage should do you.

On the subject of size, measure both your dog and your car! All the manufacturers of carriers and cages reiterate this too. Whichever carrier you’re considering, make sure it, your dog, and your car all fit neatly together in unison.

In regards to cage material, know your dog. Those carriers made from fabric, no matter how durable, are unlikely to be best chums with a dog that likes to chew. Metal or plastic cages and crates would certainly be more appropriate.

You’ll find that most dog car carriers and cages are generally suitable for small and medium-sized dogs. For large dogs, harnesses can be a better option; or, you can buy bespoke large crates fitted direct to your car’s boot.

How to make car travel comfortable for your dog

Common sense dictates that you should avoid feeding your dog just before loading them into the car for a journey. People get car sick for the same reasons, so too do dogs.

Keep the car at a comfortable temperature. The confined interior of a car heats up quickly and dogs, especially those with thicker coats, will feel the heat even more severely. On the subject of car temperature, do not at any point leave your dog in the car own their own. Cracking a window open is not enough to keep dogs cool in a parked car.

If you’re on a long trip, take regular stops to allow your dog to stretch its legs and have a drink. It’s very similar to humans isn’t it?

Getting your dog used to car travel from a young age makes a huge difference to their ability to relax and enjoy a trip, provided you make it comfortable for them.

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The best cages and dog crates for car travel

Keep your furry friend safe with the best dog cages for car travel..

Ellie-Bo Deluxe Sloping Dog Cage

Cadoca Dog Car Crate Aluminium Transport Box

PawHut Metal Collapsible Car Dog Cage

Morpilot Pet Carrier Bag

AmazonBasics Folding Soft Dog Crate

pecute Pet Carrier Bag

Pets at Home Fabric Pet Kennel Large

We'd do anything to make sure our beloved four-legged friend is safe, which is why the best cages and dog crates for car travel are a must-have pet travel accessory to use on the go. Importantly, it is legally required to ensure your dog is restrained in the car. This is so they can't distract you while you're driving or injure you; this will help them stay safe and secure if you stop the car quickly. For dogs who experience car sickness or anxiety about travelling, dog crates will make them feel more secure and help them feel at home in new environments. Luckily, we've found the best crates and dog cages for car travel.

You can get specifically designed leads that can be fastened to headrests, dog guards, and even dog car seats to keep your dog safe while travelling in a vehicle. However, the best way to protect your dog is by using a dog car crate or a dog cage for car journeys. If you're introducing a crate to your dog for the first time, it would be a good idea to get them used to it before driving anywhere. To get your dog used to the crate, start with very short periods and give them plenty of praise and treats.

Best dog crates for car travel at a glance:

• Best overall: Ellie-Bo Deluxe Sloping Dog Cage - view on Amazon UK • Best dog crate for large dogs : Cadoca Dog Car Crate Aluminium Transport Box - view on Amazon UK • Best overall fabric dog crate: Morpilot Pet Carrier Bag - view on Amazon UK • Best dog carrier for small dogs : pecute Pet Carrier Bag - view on Amazon UK

From the size and ease of use to the overall comfort provided, there are a couple of factors to consider when choosing the best cages and dog crates for car travel. You'll want to make sure the size is right for your dog and for your car and that you can easily assemble it so, you pop it up and down when needed. You'll want to check you're securing it in the right way, too Most important is the safety and comfort of your pooch so they'll be at ease while travelling. Luckily, we've covered everything from what to consider when buying a dog cage or crate for the car to how to secure it in our FAQs section.

If you're on the hunt for a cage or crate that will keep your hound safe, secure and comfortable while you're travelling, you've come to the right place. From strong metal ones to stop chewers in their tracks to softer-style car carriers for puppies and smaller breeds, we've searched the web for all the best dog cages and dog crates for car travel so you don't have to.

Best dog crates for car boot

1. ellie-bo deluxe sloping dog cage, best overall.

If you are looking for a crate for the boot of your car, then this medium-sized folding Ellie-Bo Deluxe Sloping Dog Cage would be a great pick. It features a non-chew metal tray, a fleece liner and a slanted front to fit in your car boot. It also folds flat for easy storage and transportation.

Customer review: "Good sturdy dog crate. Fits well in our car. Bed included for a snug fit!"

Fits most car boots
Removable tray for easy cleaning
Risk of paws getting stuck between bars

2. Cadoca Dog Car Crate Aluminium Transport Box

Best dog crate for large dogs.

This Cadoca Dog Car Crate Aluminium Transport Box offers a similar concept to the first dog car crate above. However, this has a chunky aluminium frame. Additionally, it has lockable doors; it is water and weather-resistant, plus it is well ventilated so your pup will be safe and comfortable for car journeys.

Customer Review: "A fantastic addition to your car and transportation of your faithful friend."

Strong and well-ventilated
Made using weather and water-resistant aluminium
Assembly required

3. PawHut Metal Collapsible Car Dog Cage

Best dog crate for small dogs.

www.robertdyas.co.uk

The angled shape of this foldable PawHut Metal Collapsible Car Dog Cage makes it suitable to fit in the boot of most cars. It has one door and a removable tray and is a good size for puppies and small dogs and will give them excellent protection when on the road.

Customer Review: "Easy to assemble and lightweight to move and carry. Tray easy to remove so you can keep it clean."

Easy to clean
Wire is a lighter gauge with wide and narrow gaps so it can rattle

Soft crates for easy travel

4. morpilot pet carrier bag, best overall fabric dog crate.

Rrp: £ 30.99

Provide comfort for your four-legged friend when travelling with this lightweight Morpilot Pet Carrier Bag. This model comes at a great price, is well-designed and comes in eight different colours and two sizes. However, the largest size is not going to be suitable for dogs bigger than a Beagle. It has breathable mesh for good ventilation.

Customer Review: "Really well made, sturdy, nice looking and spacious. Love it!"

Comes with a portable water bowl
Wipe-clean outer and removable, machine-washable cushion inside
Zipper can get stiff

5. AmazonBasics Folding Soft Dog Crate

Best folding dog crate.

This soft-sided AmazonBasics Folding Soft Dog Crate in seconds and comes with zippered closures to ensure secure containment. The folding soft-sided 26-inch crate is ideal for small dogs up to 30 pounds or can also be used for a cat or kittens. The largest 30-inch crate can hold dogs up to 42 pounds.

Customer Review: "It was easy to assemble and take back down and was lightweight for carrying. Seams and zips were good quality."

Lightweight
Needs a mat inside to prevent claws from ripping the bottom

6. pecute Pet Carrier Bag

Best dog carrier for small dogs.

This reasonably priced pecute Pet Carrier Bag is perfect for small dogs (less than 8kg) and works as a multi-purpose transporter. It has multiple entrances, a three-layer bottom pad, and a large area of breathable mesh for your pet's comfort. Lightweight for travel, easy to assemble and foldable so it can be stored away.

Customer Review: "Bought this for our 9-month-old Jack-chi as he always barked in the car … this basket helped to calm him down and with all the netting around it we could see him and saw he was comfortable in it."

Built-in safety rope
Comfortable
Not for medium or large dogs

7. Pets at Home Fabric Pet Kennel Large

Best for versatility.

www.petsathome.com

Whether you're travelling to the park or the beach, heading to the vet, or wanting to give your pet a little privacy at home, this Pets at Home Fabric Pet Kennel Large will have you covered. The fabric material is an easier option to spot clean if it gets a bit dirty when getting your dog in and out.

Customer review: "Found this to be so useful for our German Shepard puppy. We have used it in the boot of our estate car. Keeping our fur baby safe"

Suitable for large sized pets
Easy to spot clean
May not be the best choice for chewers

How we chose the best dog crates for car travel

All of these dog crates have been hand-selected by our team of Take A Break Pets shopping experts. We carefully considered the quality, safety features and value in our selection of the best. Our team has spent hours investigating and researching dog crates to make it easier for you to find the very best, and we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in.

And, with pets big and small on our team, where possible we'll share the best products that have been tried and tested by us and our own furry friends who have given their paw of approval.

Dog crate for car FAQs

Does my dog need to be in a crate or cage while travelling in the car.

According to the Highway Code , dogs and other animals need to be suitably restrained while travelling in the car. This is so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you or themselves if you need to suddenly stop or are involved in an accident.

While your dog doesn't have to be in a crate or cage while they're travelling in the car, you will need to make sure they're safe and secured at all times, using either a dog seat belt and harness, a pet carrier or dog guard to name but a few methods.

How do I choose a dog cage or crate?

Whatever dog cage you choose, bear the following factors in mind when choosing a dog cage for car travel:

Size: First thing to consider is what size the crate needs to be for your dog. The crate should be large enough for your dog to sit, stand, and turn around but small enough to keep them contained. The best way to check this is to measure your pet’s sitting height and length and add 5 to 10cm.

Sturdiness: If you plan to travel with your pup, a sturdy crate should securely contain them and protect them from potential accidents and keep them calm.

Ease of use: The crate you pick should be easy to assemble, store, and suitable for your pet.

Situation: First check where in the car you would like to put the crate such as the back seat, footwell or boot. Also, it is good to consider if the crate will work best for car travel as well as air travel.

Comfort: You will want your dog to have a positive association with the crate so remember to include a soft blanket, towel or dog travel bed , particularly for longer journeys. Using something that already has its own scent on it will also make them feel more at ease.

Extras : Some dog crates come equipped with everything your pooch may need for travel. For example, our best "overall" pick comes decked out with a travel water bowl and a lead for security.

How do I secure a dog crate in my car?

How you secure your dog crate in your car all depends on where you want to put it. If you want to put your dog crate in your boot, remove the parcel shelf and measure the interior of your car boot. Compare these to the dimensions of the crate you select. Ensure the crate is as tight as possible; the less it can move, the safer it will be for your pet. Smaller crates for small dogs can go in the back seat footwell.

If you want to put your dog on the back seat rather than on the floor, don’t use a seatbelt to secure the crate unless the manufacturer specifically says their crate is safe for this. Some are not, and you could be putting your dog in danger. A safer alternative is to use a pet hammock and place the crate inside. That way, they will not be propelled forward into the front of the car if you halt the car suddenly.

Ellen Kinsey is a senior health and wellness product writer for Take A Break, specialising in natural health. She lives and breathes all things food, travel and wellness.

When you use links on our website, we may earn a fee.

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

Associate Editor

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

Beginner’s Guide to Top 5 Dog Crates in the UK (July 2023)

Welcome, fellow dog lovers and owners, to my corner of the web!

Using dog crates is a popular and effective dog training method. They can be used from puppyhood all the way to adulthood. It also gives a bit of “safe space” for your dog where they can get their “me” time whenever necessary.

A dog crate, sometimes known as a cage or an indoor kennel, is designed to offer a secure den-like structure for dogs to rest in for short periods, either enclosed or open. Usually, they’re cube or rectangular-shaped with one or two doors that can be locked outside.

However, these crates have become more than containment spaces. As I mentioned, they serve as sanctuaries for our beloved companions, providing comfort and security like a cosy den.

And as you go through this guide, I’ll ensure you’ll be better equipped to choose the perfect crate for your four-legged friend.

Do vets recommend dog crates?

Generally, dog crates come highly recommended by veterinary experts. These versatile enclosures provide a safe and comfortable space for our canine companions, offering numerous benefits such as a safe and comfortable space, preventing destructive behaviour and facilitating travel.

Best Dog Crates to Buy in the UK!

We’ve tested over 100 hundred dog crates and cages over many months with our own dog, Jeff. And after all that, I’ve decided on a few brands and models that are well worth the price.

1. Editor’s Choice: MidWest Single-Door Dog Crate

The MidWest Single-Door Metal Dog Crate is currently the best dog crate available for dogowners in the UK due to its simplicity and functionality. With one door featuring two sliding latches, it ensures your dog’s security. The durable steel mesh and removable plastic bottom make cleaning a breeze.

It’s available in various sizes and suits a wide range of breeds, and its foldable design allows for easy storage and travel.

However, some owners found larger sizes heavy, and a few experienced minor issues with the divider. Overall, it’s an affordable, practical choice loved by many owners.

Sturdy and durable, even for large dogs
Wide range of sizes for a comfortable fit
Easy assembly and folding
Affordable compared to similar crates
Removable bottom for easy cleaning
Handy divider for puppies and added value
Larger sizes may be heavy to move
Divider setup may be slightly challenging
The sizing guide can be misleading
Some durability concerns for certain dogs

Buy Dog Crate, MidWest Life Stages Dog Crate on Amazon

2. Beginner Choice: Ellie Bo Dog Crate

Ellie Bo is a renowned manufacturer of dog crates, mostly of the wired mesh cage variety. They are simple, cheap, easy to use and are made to a high standard.

The Ellie Bo dog crates typically come with a double door, one on the front and one on the side, and a removable metal tray at the bottom to make it easy to clean.

Although you may have typically seen Ellie Bo dog crates in black, they also come in Gold and Silver. Whether your pooch is young or super big, these crates are available in various sizes to fit any dog.

More so, if you plan on crate training your dog from a young age, you can buy the Ellie Bo dog crate and cage along with a crate divider so that you can gradually increase the size of the inside (too much space in the crate makes it easy for dogs to soil in them).

Buy Ellie Bo Dog Crates on Amazon

3. Budget-Friendly: New World Crates Folding Metal Crate

The New World Crates Folding Metal Crate is our affordable crate training and travel pick. Available in various sizes, it accommodates dogs of different sizes.

The crate features a leak-proof plastic pan and a heavy-duty slide-bolt latch for security. It’s easy to assemble without required tools, folds flat for storage, and provides ventilation and visibility.

With its protective, long-lasting black E-coat finish, this crate is a high-quality investment at an affordable price, built to withstand the test of time.

Available in various sizes for all dogs
Relatively lightweight and easy to assemble
Features a heavy-duty latch for added security
Not suitable for extra-large breeds over 50kg.

The New World Crates Folding Metal Crate offers unbeatable value without compromising quality, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious dog owners.

Buy New World Crates Folding Metal on Amazon

4. Best for Car Travel: Amazon Basics Folding Soft Dog Crate

The Amazon Basics Folding Soft Dog Crate is our top pick for car travel and the best soft dog crate option. Crafted with durable polyester fabric and a lightweight PVC frame, it provides a cosy and secure resting place for your dog during your journeys.

Featuring doors with zippers on the top and front, this crate offers easy access, while the mesh on the doors and windows ensures excellent ventilation. It’s perfect for dogs who don’t chew and need a comfortable, relaxing space.

Dogs find it roomy and comfortable, ensuring a pleasant travel experience.
Its lightweight construction makes it easy to carry during travel.
The simple folding mechanism makes assembly a breeze.
Mesh windows provide ventilation and allow dogs to see outside.
Some owners experienced issues with the stability of the zippers.
Not suitable for dogs prone to chewing or escape attempts.

Despite minor drawbacks, the Amazon Basics Folding Soft Dog Crate remains a reliable choice for car travel, offering comfort, convenience, and adequate ventilation for your furry companion.

Buy Amazon Basics Folding Soft Dog Crate on Amazon

5. Eco-Friendly Choice: New Age ecoFLEX Pet Crate

According to BASF, ecoflex has no negative consequences for nature or the environment.

New Age Dog Crate, made using ecoflex, is the best eco-friendly dog crate for green dog parents. This crate doubles as an end table, seamlessly blending fashion and functionality into your home decor. Crafted from a durable recycled plastic wood polymer composite, it offers long-lasting wear resistance.

The stainless-steel tubing on the sides and door ensures proper ventilation while keeping your furry friend secure. The stainless-steel latch on the door adds an extra layer of safety.

Quick and easy assembly is appreciated by many owners.
Sufficient room inside ensures dogs can lie down comfortably.
The plastic construction makes cleaning a breeze, a feature many love.
The door’s sturdiness may not be suitable for escape artists.
Heavy chewers may damage the crate, as it’s not designed to withstand extensive chewing.
A few owners found the crate less cost-effective due to its high price and perceived lower quality.

Buy New Age ecoFLEX Pet Crate on Amazon

Buyer’s Guide: How to choose the best dog crate?

1. size and dimensions.

The size of the cage is the single most important factor to consider.

In general, the size of your dog’s crate should be big enough for them to get up and turn around, and no more for dogs yet to be housebroken. This is to discourage them from soiling their own sleeping area. You can later buy a bigger crate once they’re housebroken and comfortable.

A crate that’s too small can be uncomfortable and restrictive for your dog, while one that’s too large may not provide the sense of security that a well-fitted crate offers.

Each dog breed has its unique size and space requirements, so it’s essential to measure your dog accurately and refer to size guidelines provided by crate manufacturers.

How to measure my dog for the right crate size?

To determine the right size, measure your dog from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail for length and from the top of its head to the ground for height. Add a few inches to these measurements to ensure your dog has enough space to stand up, turn around, and lie comfortably.

Read More: What size dog crate do you need?

2. Materials: Which crate type is best for your dog?

Metal (Wire) Crates: Sturdy and well-ventilated wire crates are popular for their durability and visibility. They allow maximum airflow and make it easier for your dog to see what’s happening outside, benefiting those who may feel anxious.

Sturdy and durable
Excellent ventilation and visibility
Easy to clean
Collapsible for storage and travel
It may not provide as much privacy as other types
Some dogs may try to escape through the gaps in the wires

Plastic Crates: They provide a cosy, den-like feel for dogs, creating a safe haven for them during travel or moments of solitude. Plastic crates typically have a front-facing door, offering privacy and seclusion.

Secure and enclosed design
Great for travel and airline-approved
Provides a den-like environment for dogs
Offers more privacy compared to wire crates
It may not be as well-ventilated as wire crates
Less visibility for the dog to see outside

Soft-Sided Crates: Lightweight and portable, soft-sided crates are ideal for travel and short-term use. They are made from fabric materials with mesh panels for ventilation and visibility. Unfortunately, they may not suit dogs who like to chew or scratch.

Lightweight and portable
Easy to set up and fold down
Cosy and comfortable for dogs
Ideal for short trips and travel
Not suitable for dogs who may chew or scratch
Less sturdy compared to metal or plastic crates
It may not provide enough airflow for some dogs

3. Portability and Travel Compatibility

Depending on your lifestyle, you may need a crate that’s easy to transport, lightweight, and capable of withstanding the rigours of travel.

Collapsible Design: These crates are space-saving and convenient for storage.
Built-in Handles: They’re easier to carry around, especially during travel.
Airline Approval: Airlines have specific requirements for pet travel, so it’s essential to check their guidelines before purchasing a crate.
Outdoor Use: Look for durable materials and features that suit outdoor use.

where is the best place to put a dog crate

4. Safety Features

Ensure the crate has secure locks and latches that protect your dog and prevent accidental escapes. Some crates come with double locks for added security. Check the crate’s overall construction to ensure no sharp edges or parts could harm your dog.

5. Budget Considerations

Look for a crate that balances affordability and durability. Investing in a high-quality crate can save you money in the long run, as it will likely last longer and better serve your dog’s needs.

6. Space & Location At Your Home

Consider the aesthetics of the crate and how well it fits into your home environment. Some crates are designed to blend in seamlessly with your interior decor, while others may be more utilitarian in appearance.

If you plan to keep the crate in a specific area of your home for a while, choosing one that complements the overall ambience is essential.

Read More: Beginner’s Guide to Preparing Dog Crates: What to Add and Where to Put it?

7. Easy to Clean

Crates and cages will get dirty over time, like any bedding, so they must be cleaned occasionally.

Wire crates for dogs can be cleaned easily with a hose down and scrubbing of the metal or plastic removable tray. Hard plastic crates can be wiped down with antibacterial wipes, a spray, and a cloth, but soft crates may need specific instructions.

8. Open vs Closed Crates

Some dogs prefer an open-air feeling, while others feel more secure in a fully enclosed crate. Pay attention to your dog’s behaviour and comfort level to determine which type suits them better.

Choosing the perfect crate for your canine companion involves carefully assessing their unique needs, behaviour, and lifestyle. Considering these essential factors, you’ll be well on your way to finding the ideal crate for your furry friend.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are wire crates better than plastic ones for training?

Wire crates offer excellent ventilation and visibility, making them ideal for dogs feeling anxious or stressed when confined. In comparison, plastic crates provide a cosy den-like feel, offering more privacy and security.

2. Can I use a soft-sided crate for house training?

Generally, soft-sided crates aren’t ideal for house training, especially for puppies or dogs still learning bladder control. Additionally, dogs that aren’t housebroken may be more prone to chewing and scratching – which is the biggest con of using soft-sided crates.

3. How do I make the crate more comfortable for my dog?

Place a soft and washable crate pad or bedding inside for added comfort. Add a few favourite toys or a chew bone to keep your dog entertained while in the crate. Also, ensure the crate is located in a quiet and peaceful area of your home, away from excessive noise or disturbances.

4. Can I use the crate for travel purposes?

Many dog crates are designed with travel compatibility in mind. If you plan to travel with your dog, look for crates that are collapsible for easy storage and feature built-in handles for convenient carrying. For air travel, ensure that the crate is airline-approved and meets the specific requirements.

5. Are there any eco-friendly crate options available?

There are several eco-friendly crates available for environmentally-conscious pet owners. Look for crates made from sustainable materials such as recycled plastics or natural fibres. These eco-friendly crates are not only safer for the environment but also safe for your dog.

6. How do I clean and maintain the dog crate?

Regularly remove and wash the crate pad or bedding to ensure freshness. Clean the crate using pet-safe cleaning agents, and thoroughly dry it to prevent odours and mould growth. Regularly inspect the crate for any signs of wear or damage, and replace any worn-out parts to keep the crate safe and functional

7. Can I crate-train an older dog?

Technically, it can be beneficial for older dogs as well. While it may take extra patience and understanding, crate training can help older dogs feel secure and establish a designated space.

8. At what age should a dog stop sleeping in a crate?

In general, dogs beyond the age of two can stop sleeping in a crate and be shifted to a more liberal dog bed. However, the exact timeline can vary depending on the dog’s behaviour and comfort level. Some dogs may prefer to continue using their crate as a safe space throughout their lives, while others may outgrow it.

Read More: How to help your dog cry less in its crate?

Safety Warning for Dogowners

In general, it can be easy to see crates and a cage as an effective tool to keep your dog secure in the same place, but they should only be used for short periods and never for hours on end. The goal is only to housebreak and offer a secure place instead of a resentful corner they’re forced into.

Therefore, I recommend every potential buyer of crates to think about the endgame you want to achieve – if it’s housebreaking, then what will the sleeping arrangement be after they’ve done it? To keep them safe while you’re at work, do you need to hire a dog walker to break up their time in it?

Jeff was trained, and now we don’t have a crate. I would still highly recommend their use, but we never had it in mind to use permanently. If it’s your doggo’s choice to use it, it’s never seen as a ‘cage’.

Ronnie is the JugDog site editor and a dog expert who has lived and worked with dogs his entire life. Living in St. Helens, UK with his wife son and Jug Dog Jeff Ronnie spends most of time researching the answers to the burning questions of the dog community as well as reviewing the latest and greatest dog products.

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Hi, I would like to purchase a dog cage that is made in the UK or Europe. I’ve been finding it hard to find information on Cage Manufacturers online. Could you help? Thanks Dan

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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!

What’s the Best Dog Crate for Car Travel? Our Picks

Some dogs love to ride in the car while others are not keen on the trip. Whichever category your pooch belongs to, having a proper dog crate makes car travel much more enjoyable for both of you. The private space keeps your dog steadier which helps with dogs that suffer from motion sickness. The floor of the dog crate keeps the potential mess of your dog confined to an easy to clean space. A dog crate also protects your car from any dirty paws (if you are wondering how to deal with muddy dog paws , we have a guide on that too). Here, we will list what you need to know to pick out the best dog crate for your car and four-legged friend.

Best Dog Crate for Car Travel 2021

The eugad dog crate.

EUGAD Dog Crate Car Travel Cage Aluminium Transport Box House Crate Pet...

This EUGAD dog crate is the right one for your medium-sized buddy. It measures at 89x69x50 cm which is a comfortable size for many medium-sized breeds.

This larger crate is not collapsible but it is easy to disassemble and reassemble. There are six parts to the dog crate, namely the floor, roof, two side walls and front and back panel. The reason why this crate cannot fold is because of its highly sturdy and therefore durable design. The crate is made of quality aluminium and strong plastic sides that cannot be chewed through by your dog.

The entrance of the dog crate is a double door with a pre-fitted lock. This front-panel of the crate also slopes for a better fit in the boot. This trapezium shaped dog crate is the right choice for a stronger dog because of its durability.

This will easily fit into medium-sized cars like the SKODA Octavia. Examples of adult dog breeds that the crate is an appropriate size for are Border Collies and Labrador Retrievers.

The vidaXL Dog Crate with Double Door

vidaXL Durable Aluminium and MDF Dog Cage for Car Travel with Double Door -...

The vidaXL is very similar to the EUGAD option but is larger and more suited to bigger dogs.

Its XL size means it’s suitable for large dogs and its strong build means that your dog won’t be able to damage it by biting or scratching.

Its measurements come in at 94 x 88 x 69cm (W x D x H) meaning there should be room for your large dog to sit or lie down comfortably during your car journey.

You will need a medium or large car or van to fit this into, though you probably wouldn’t be trying to fit a Rottweiler into a Smart car anyway!

Ellie-Bo Deluxe Sloping 30 Inch Folding Crate

Ellie Bo Deluxe Sloping Puppy Cage Medium 30 inch Black Folding Dog Crate...

The Ellie-Bo 30 inch crate truly is deluxe. It even comes with a fleece liner and training guide to make the dog crate experience more enjoyable for your dog.

The crate measures at 54x76x54 cm and slants at both the front and sides which lets the crate fit into most hatchback cars. This is the appropriate size for smaller breeds like a Shih Tzu or a Cocker Spaniel. The bars are four mm thick so they will keep your dog safe inside. As will the heavy-duty latch doorway. You could opt for the extra precaution of fastening the dog crate with bungee ropes.

You also don’t have to worry about your chewer because the floor tray is made of steel. The fleece liner will make the floor more comfortable for your dog. At the same time, the tray is removable so it is also easy to clean.

Examples of cars where this dog crate will fit into are a Renault Corsa, Hyundai Ioniq, Renault Clio, Kia Sportage, Seat Ibiza and Ford Fiesta. Examples of adult dog breed that the crate is an appropriate size for are Cocker Spaniels, Wheaten, English Springer Spaniels and Jack Russels.

Cozy Pet Deluxe Car Dog Crate

Car Dog Cage 24' by Cozy Pet, Fits Most Makes Audi BMW Fiat Ford Honda...

The Cozy Pet deluxe crate was designed specifically with cars in mind. The designers took great care in making sure that the dog crate could fit into most cars. The dog crate measures at 44.5x62x49.5 cm which is a smaller size and so fit for smaller breeds.

Both the front and back panel of the crate are sloped which lets you place the crate further inside the boot. The crate also has two doors, one in the front panel and one in the back panel. This is a safety measure that Cozy Pet has installed in case of an accident at the back of the car. With this design you will still be able to release your dog from the dog crate by dropping down the front seat and opening the back door.

This dog crate is also a great choice for warmer and sunny weather. The black finish doesn’t create a blinding glare for your dog and the sturdy wires provide plenty ventilation. Also, the tray is made from a strong ABS material that is also easy to clean.

A great extra feature of this Cozy Pet dog crate is that you get the option of ordering the crate with a fitted bed. This saves you the time you would otherwise spend on trying to find the right sizes lining.

Examples of cars where this dog crate will fit into are a Nissan Xtrail and Renault Scenic but the manufacturer claim that it will fit into most models of all car brands. Examples of adult dog breeds that the crate is an appropriate size for are Cocker Spaniels and Lurchers.

Kerble Slanted Front Dog Crate

Kerbl Slanted Front Dog Cage Collapsible 2 Doors, 76 x 54 x 64 cm, Black

This dog crate is the perfect choice for a show dog, even the larger breeds. The crate reaches quite high at 76x54x64 cm which lets your dog sit comfortably in the cage. The front is slanted which makes for an easier fit in the car, too.

Kerble recommends this slanted front dog crate for dogs that participate in exhibitions or to bring along on your holiday trips. This is because the crate is lightweight and is fitted with a handle for easy carrying. The slanted dog crate is also collapsible so you can store it in the car when not in use.

Examples of cars where this dog crate will fit into are Ford Edge, Focus Estate, Peugeot 3008 and Ford C-Max. Examples of adult dog breeds that the crate is an appropriate size for are Cocker Spaniels, Bichons and an Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

In our opinion, the Kerble Slanted Front Dog Crate is one of the best slanted dog crates.

This is another dog collapsible travel crate that was designed specifically for cars. This crate measures at 82x53x51 cm. The front is sloped to make sure that it doesn’t bang into the boot window. The back of the crate is also sloped, there is a bend in the design which lets the crate fit just right against the back seat. This way, you won’t have to fold down the back seat whenever your dog is travelling in the car.

Safety is also an important feature in this Arrow dog crate. The crate is made from zinc steel which sturdier than powder coated crates. Since the material is zinc steel, the crate is still lightweight too. A unique safety feature with this crate is the spring loaded top. The top panel is designed to open up in case of an accident. This lets you retrieve your dog from the create from an alternative panel. Also, there is a sliding bolt over the door. This makes sure that your dog cannot worm his way out.

Examples of cars where this dog crate will fit into are a Ford Fiesta and Peugeot 206 and Hyundai i20 and Mini Cooper. Examples of adult dog breeds that the crate is an appropriate size for are Border Terriers, Border Collie’s and Coton de Tulear.

Ferplest Atlas Car Mini Pet Carrier

Ferplast Car carrier for dogs ATLAR CAR MINI, Pet carrier, Ventilation...

For the smallest pooches there is the Ferplest Atlast mini carrier. This tiny and handy carrying crate is made from a durable plastic with wired sliding doors. This carrier can fit two toy breed dogs because it measures at 72x51x41 cm. You have the option of either keeping them separated with the provided divider or letting them snuggle together in the crate.

This is a dog crate for the dog owner that likes products with a lot of extra features. The crate comes with a draining mat which helps to keep the space clean for your dog. There are two storage compartments that you can use to carry toys or a blanket in. There is a spring hatch in case of emergencies. Finally, if you don’t want to carry the dog crate, you can even roll it around because it comes with option of wheels.

A plastic dog crate which is more enclosed will help out dogs that get nervous in the car. This Ferplest crate gives your dog less distractions as your furry friend is only able to see through the sliding front doors. You don’t have to worry about the crate being too hot, either. There ventilation in each panel to let in enough fresh air for your pupper.

Examples of cars where this dog crate will fit into are a Honda CRV and Mini Countryman. Examples of adult dog breeds that the crate is an appropriate size for are Jack Russels and Miniature Poodles.

These were our top picks for dog crates to travel with in your car. We’ve taken care to choose the crates that are easy to clean and comfortable spaces for your dog. Remember to properly measure your dog’s height, length and width. This will help you decide on which dog crate size is the most appropriate for your trusted furry friend. Also, don’t forget to measure the boot of your car with the boot door closed. There might be a significant slope in the design of the car which doesn’t fit with every dog crate design.

How to Choose the Right Size for Your Dog

The most important aspect of a dog crate is its size. The crate should be big enough for your dog to comfortably stand in, turn around and lay down. You can easily find out what the appropriate size is by measuring your dog.

There are three lengths to measure. The first one is the appropriate height. To find the appropriate height of the crate, measure from the top of your dog’s head to the ground. Add about eight cm or three inches to this length. This is how tall the dog crate should be.

Second, measure how wide the crate needs to be by measuring the length from your dog’s snout to the base of the tail. It is not necessary to include the length of the tail in the calculations. Again, add about eight cm or three inches to this length.

Finally, measure the widest part of your dog. Usually, this is above the shoulders and chest. Once again, add eight cm or three inches. This is the appropriate breadth of the dog crate.

Don’t choose a crate that is far larger than the above suggested measurement. A dog crate shouldn’t be too big either because this might encourage Rover to pee inside the crate. Adult dogs purposefully do their business away from where they like to lay down and sleep. A dog crate that is too big gives your dog the space to do so. The best dog crate do come with a removable tray, though. So, in case your dog can’t hold it in, the crate will still be easy to clean.

How to Choose the Right Size for Your Car

Another vital point is measuring the boot of your car. Imagine the disappointment of not being able to use a newly purchased dog crate because it doesn’t fit inside the boot of your car.

Measure the length, the width, the height and the slope of the car boot before purchasing a dog crate. The slope of the boot is a measurement that dog owners tend to forget when shopping for a crate. Don’t be one of them. The slope of your car boot can significantly change how much space is actually available for the dog crate.

Don’t despair if you have a smaller car with a low slope. There are still plenty of dog crate options for you. We’ve included several sloped dog crates in our selection of the best that you can buy on-line.

Also, consider whether you would prefer a dog crate that is collapsible or not. collapsible dog crates are very practical, especially if you would like to leave the crate in the car. This lets you free up space for luggage and groceries whenever you need while still keeping the crate on hand.

Despite the crate that you opt-in for, remember that getting a dog crate cover to keep your dog calm during any car ride is also super important.

Best Dog Crates & Accessories

Updated: Apr 23

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We have a hunch that you're here because you're about to welcome a puppy.

If so, a dog crate can provide a much needed sense of security for the new member of your family whilst helping to master toilet training.

Dog crates can also support your puppy and you whilst you learn to deal with that dreaded separation issue.

We've put together our picks of the best dog crates on the UK market, along with some must-have accessories from lavish high-end furniture to far more affordable options if you're on a tight budget.

We also recommend bedding options to create a cosy, comfortable and durable sleeping space, oh and there's some gorgeous crate covers to turn your crate into a fabulous puppy den.

Firstly, we talk crate size to make sure you get the right crate for your pup. So whether it's a tiny crate or a super sized, extra large dog crate you're looking for, we have you covered.

You can judge for yourself whether you like the look and we'll fill you in as best we can how good each crate is.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Features to Consider

Our Picks of the Best Dog Crates and Accessories

1. Best Overall Crate : Ellie-Bo

2. Best Dog Crate Furniture : Omlet

3. Best Premium Crate : Savic

4. Best Sliding Door Crate : L ords&Labradors

5 . Best Crate Starter Kit : Midwest

6 . Best Simple Crate Bed : Dericor

7 . Best Puppy Crate Mat : Vetfleece

8. Best Crate Cover : Molly Mutt

9 . Best Dog Crate Bowls : Joyoldel f

10 . Best Crate for your Car : Thule

Our Verdict

Top Crate Training Tips

FEATURES TO CONSIDER

Before you read on, let's talk size. The right size crate will depend on the size (not the weight) of your dog. As a minimum your dog must be able to sit and stand at full height, turn around, stretch out and lie down in a natural position.

Dog crates tend to be manufactured in a standard range of lengths but some crates and bedding are listed in cm and some in inches (just to confuse matters).

So here's an at-a-glance guide to help you buy a crate and bedding which fits -

Extra-Small - 22 inch dog crate (56 cm)

Small - 24 inch dog crate (61 cm)

Medium - 30 inch dog crate (77 cm)

Large - 36 inch dog crate (91 cm)

X- Large - 42 inch dog crate (106 cm)

XX-Large - 48 inch dog crate (122 cm)

If you intend to purchase a crate to use solely for the first few months then move to a dog bed, a smaller one will fit the bill.

However, if you are looking for a crate to grow with your puppy into adulthood then choose a larger crate but we'd recommend investing in a divider panel.

If the crate is initially too big for your puppy it can ruin their toilet training , as they learn it's okay to mess in one corner whilst keeping their sleeping area clean.

A divider panel is a great way to increase your crate size as your puppy grows.

Most dog crates have two doors - one on the end and one on the side. This will give you maximum flexibility for positioning it in your home. Some cheaper crates only feature one door and we do review a crate with a sliding door if you're pushed for space.

There are bedding options designed specifically to be used with a dog crate. We'd recommend sticking to one of these options as they tend to be machine washable and built to endure those inevitable puppy accidents and chewing.

Your puppy needs access to water at all times which can present a potential problem with crate training. Look at options where the water bowls can be easily secured within the crate to avoid any accidents - (we feature one later in this article)

Dogs have a natural denning instinct, often preferring safe, enclosed quarters for their naps.

It's really simple to transform your crate from something akin to a cage into a comfortable and secure den.

Consider a made-to-measure crate cover, furniture or even some cosy throws - we'll touch on a couple of options later.

At Smart Bark, we're always on the hunt for the best of the best. We've researched this buying guide to provide you with an overview of your options and help you decide which features are most important to you and your four-legged friend.

So let's have a look at what the best dog crates and accessories on the market for 2024 have to offer you and your new puppy.

OUR PICKS OF THE BEST DOG CRATES AND ACCESSORIES

1. best overall dog crate.

Known for their simple, durable and well designed crates, Ellie-Bo offer the best value crates on the UK market.

Their range has standard and deluxe models along with options for a black or silver finish. Ellie-Bo stock a range of dog crates available in 5 sizes - from 24 inch to 48 inch.

Whether you opt for the standard or deluxe model, they both feature two door openings, one on the front and one on the side. This offers you maximum flexibility when it comes to positioning the crate in your home.

Both doors are secured with two sturdy latches to deal with any budding Houdini's out there.

Better still, the cage is easy to set up and collapse for storage (no tools needed). The steel tray in the base is removable and the crate has a carry handle if you need to reposition the crate.

A word of caution for anyone with wooden floors. We'd recommend placing your crate on a doormat or something similar to protect your flooring from scratches.

The difference between the standard Ellie-Bo and the deluxe model are thicker bars and the addition of a faux sheepskin cushion.

The truth is that Ellie-Bo crates are well made, durable and for most new dog families will provide a secure sleeping place for your puppy at a great price.

Reasons to Buy

+ Well designed

+ Great value for money

+ Two door flexibility

+ Easy set-up

+ Standard or deluxe models

+ Available in black or silver

Reasons to Avoid

- May scratch wooden floors

Buying Option

2. Best Dog Crate Furniture

If you're looking for a crate which looks like a piece of stylish, modern furniture, this could be for you.

Designed around either a 24"or 36" crate, the Fido Studio range not only house the crate but also offer a host of amazing optional extras for a luxury look.

Incredibly flexible so you can order your crate with or without the tray or bed.

A side cupboard is available so you can store all your dog's stuff in one place. Other extras include a bed, storage box and even a clothes rail for the cupboard. What's not to love?

Obviously the Omlet furniture is a more expensive than a simple dog crate, but it looks super stylish and offers a host of options so you can customise your crate for your dog and your space.

If this is a stretch then it's worth noting that Omlet also offer a range of high-quality crates on their own without the additional furniture called Fido Classic.

These are great quality crates, they feature two doors, a carry handle and fold down easily for storage.

We love that Omlet provide all the dimensions of the crate including the door size, door lip and even packaging dimensions so you can measure up at home and order, knowing the dog crate will fit your space perfectly.

+ Stylish dog crate

+ Host of optional extras

+ All measurements on website

- More expensive

Buying Options

We also review Omlet's amazing range of premium dog beds for growing pups - Ultimate Canine Comfort

3. Best Premium Dog Crate

A great alternative but admittedly slightly pricier than the Ellie-Bo version, is the Savic Residence Dog Crate.

Built to an extremely high standard, the Savic dog crates stand out feature is the wire coating. The zinc-plating is not only extremely durable but gives it this beautiful silver coloured finish.

As with most dog crates, the Savic crate is completely collapsible and comes with two handles so it's easy to transport in the house or to the car if you want to use it in the car boot when travelling.

We loved the addition of rubber feet to stop the crate from scratching your floors. These extra touches set the Savic crates apart from their rivals.

All their crates with the exception of the small and extra small sizes have front and side doors. The small and extra small (shown above) have front and top doors which helps you to get tiny puppies in and out.

Another design feature is the plastic (not metal) tray which incorporates an edge channel to keep your dog dry. The plastic tray is not only warmer than the metal but has no sharp edges.

There are a host of options you can add, including wheels, spare trays, dividers and fleece beds.

If you're looking for a premium dog crate with some well thought out features then you'll be hard pushed to find one better than Savic.

+ Hard wearing coating

+ Plastic tray

+ Floor protectors

+ Optional extras available

- Pricier than Ellie-Bo

4. Best Sliding Door Crate

Lords & labradors.

Short of space ? Looking for a crate to fit in your car boot ? Take a look at the sliding door crate from Lords & Labradors.

Instead of opening outwards the main door slides to save space. This makes the crate ideal for cramped spaces or for the boot of a car when you are looking to maximise the space available.

This Lords & Labrador crate has two doors, thicker bars than a standard crate and comes with a removable metal floor tray.

Available in 2 sizes. Whilst not the cheapest crates available, Lords & Labradors offer a wide range including standard crates in gold, black and silver finish.

+ Sliding door

+ Perfect for small spaces

- Slightly pricier

If you're considering travelling with your dog in the car, we have a range of popular articles which may help - Best Car Boot Liners for Dogs , Best Dog Car Seats , Best Car Seat Covers

5. Best Crate Starter Kit

If you're looking for a a great value option with everything that your puppy needs included, then Midwest's iCrate Starter Kit could be the perfect option.

No need to worry about measuring and checking your chosen bed will fit your crate, this starter set from Midwest contains everything your puppy will need for a good nights sleep.

Obviously the kit includes a crate, this one has two doors so you have flexibility on where you place it in your home.

Also included in the set is a Quiet Time dog bed . An ultra-soft synthetic sheepskin with comfortable polyester filled bolsters which fits your crate perfectly.

A Quiet Time crate cover creates a calm space to promote sleeping and finally 2 dog bowls are included which fix to the crate sides to avoid spillages.

Crucially the iCrate Starter Kit works out to be excellent value, considerably cheaper than buying the individual products separately. Everything arrives packaged together and there are 4 size options available.

Similar to the other crates featured, the crates fold flat for storage, there's no assembly required.

It's worth mentioning that Midwest also offer a range of crates without the full starter set. Their newly updated crates come with secure slide-bolt latches, rounded corners, a durable black finish and a removable plastic pan for easy cleanup.

+ Everything included

- If you want to choose your bed/ cover

6. Best Simple Crate Bed

If you're looking for bedding with a cosier look and feel, Dericor offer simple and practical padded beds to fit a range of crates from 22" to 36" crates.

Made from artificial sheepskin fleece, these cosy dog beds are not only comfortable and warm they're also great value.

More importantly, they are machine washable and dry extremely quickly which is crucial when toilet training .

They could completely cover the base of the crate or fit in one half to form a smaller sleeping zone.

We've used Dericor beds with two puppies in the past and found they were durable, great value, super easy to wash and dry and our puppies loved them.

+ Great value

+ Super cosy

- Lacks designer looks

7. Best Puppy Crate Mat

Once you've decided on your crate size the next step is choosing bedding. Affordable and very reputable, the Vetfleece bedding is hugely popular with new puppy owners.

Vets bedding for a dog or puppy crate in grey and green

Designed to drain liquids away, keeping your puppy dry and comfortable all night long so you can all get a good night's sleep.

The comfy fleece top helps to retain heat, so your dog is nice and warm even if they've had an accident.

The best bit though is that it's machine washable and dries quickly so accidents can be dealt with easily. If you are a new puppy owner, this is a game changer.

We recommend considering buying two to make life easy for yourselves.

The range includes new and improved Vetfleece with a non-slip backing making them ideal for all types of flooring as well as in a crate.

They are available in a range of colours, designs and sizes to fit any of the standard dog crates mentioned in this article.

+ Keeps puppy dry

- Not the most cosy looking

8. Best Crate Cover

If you're looking to completely transform your dog’s crate into a smart dog den, a cover from Molly Mutt would certainly fit the bill.

Molly Mutt are a US company designing a range of crate covers and beds which are now available in the UK through Amazon.

Their collection of crate covers have been designed to fit standard crates including any featured earlier in this article. With several designs and colours available you can match any room in your home.

Made from breathable cotton canvas both the short and the long sides roll up to offer complete flexibility on positioning and they are machine washable.

Available in a range of adorable designs and sizes.

+ Gorgeous designs

+ Breathable material

+ Machine washable

9. Best Dog Crate Bowls

Dog and puppies should have access to fresh water at all times.

To avoid accidents and spillages, opt for a dog bowl specifically designed to work with crates.

The Joyoldelf hanging bowls attach to the side of your crate meaning they're off the floor and less likely to be knocked over or dragged around the crate.

The removable stainless steel dog bowl can be filled with water and simply placed back in the holder.

Very sturdy and a clever option to avoid puppies spilling their water.

+ Attaches to crate

+ Easy to fill

+ Less spillages

- Only use with crate

If you'd like to explore other dog bowls we recommend, take a look at our picks of the Best Dog Bowls for 2024

10. Best Crate for your Car

Thule are renowned for offering high quality travel solutions, and their dog crate is no exception. Launched January 2024, their Allax dog crates are the crème de la crème of car dog crates, uniquely designed and well built.

As you'd expect from Thule, the Allax dog crate has been rigorously crash tested in their Thule Test Center where they recreated r ear-end collisions, front collisions and even roll-over scenarios.

The innovative crumple zone is designed to provide superior protection for both passengers and your dog in the case of an accident. So it's fair to say that this dog crate ensures that both you and your dog are as safe as possible.

Available in 10 different sizes to suit your car and your dog. Whilst not the cheapest option available, it is undeniably the safest.

+ Safest Solution

+ Fully crash tested

+ Could be a long term solution

+ Well designed

- Most expensive option

Read our deep dive - Crash Tested Confidence: Thule Dog Crate Review

OUR VERDICT

For most new puppy owners we would definitely recommend an Ellie-Bo dog crate . Of course, it will keep your puppy safe and secure exactly the same as the other crates we've featured, but our overall favourite is the market leader with countless 5 star reviews from happy dog lovers everywhere.

Ellie-Bo crates are durable, easy to assemble and their standard sizing means it's incredibly easy to add dog beds and accessories to fit.

If you're looking for a super stylish dog crate and accessories sure to make even the most chic fash-puppy drool with delight, then we would recommend taking a closer look at the Omlet range .

DOG CRATE TRAINING TIPS

Hopefully this article has given you some guidance about which dog crate size and design is best for your puppy along with a look at some gorgeous crate accessories to help you design the perfect dog den.

Here are some top tips to help with your dog crate.

✅ Always remove your dog's collar so it can't get caught on the sides of the crate.

✅ Position your crate away from direct sunlight or draughts.

✅ Place some safe, chew toys inside along with something that smells of 'mum'.

✅ To encourage your dog to relax and sleep in their crate, try some background music. Spotify has several playlists with a soothing and calming mix of music for your dog .

If you are looking for some guidance on how to use a dog crate successfully, then the RSPCA have a wonderful step-by-step guide to introducing and using a crate. Available for you to print and keep, the link is at the bottom of this short article -

Dog Crates - A step-by-step Guide

Thank you for stopping by and taking a look at our review of the Best Dog Crates and Accessories.

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Why choose pet world cages.

At Pet World, we have an excellent reputation for providing the highest quality pet crates. With over 10 years of experience, we know what it is that makes an excellent crate, and we have been endorsed by many of the top pet handlers in the UK.

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Issue with the sizing of your dog crate? We offer easy exchanges to larger or lower size crates.

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High-Quality Carbon Steel

We can guarantee absolute safety when using our cages. Each cage is made from high carbon steel, finished in a powder coating, and features an emergency escape hatch on the top of the cage should it ever be required.

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Our dog crates are designed to ensure that installing them in your car is as easy as possible. This allows you to simply remove and reinstall whenever you need it.

The Best Dog Crates of 2024

A crate is a sacred place for your dog to lay their head on a car ride, on the way to the vet or after a long day on the trail. No matter your budget or needs, here are the best crates for your pup to stay comfortable, happy and calm.

After a day of running, biking, or hiking with our furry best friends, it’s paramount that we give them a safe and comfortable place to rest or lounge. Enter the dog crate. Crate training your puppy from a young age is one of the most important things a new dog owner can do to ensure your pup’s safety and comfort when you’re away from home or need to keep your dog away from the bed at night.

These days, dog crates have been designed with just about every activity in mind so choosing the best one can be daunting. Our tester, Katie Davis, and her pup, Mason, tested seven crates to cut through the confusion and highlight the best of the best.

After owning her dog for 6 years, Katie still finds it tricky to find the best crate for Mason. He is a couch potato who requires a comfortable and plush place to sleep every night.

Although Mason often sneaks his way into bed with Katie at night, she still needs a place for him to be safe and happy when she’s gone or on nights when he doesn’t sleep in bed. Katie and Mason tested these crates inside, outside, in the car, and everywhere in between to put each kennel through its paces. Out of the thousands of options available, we tested crates designed for travel, vet visits, and chic designs to blend in with your living room decor. We’ve cut through the noise to help you figure out which crate will best meet your needs.

Scroll through our list to find the best dog crates available at the moment.

Still not sold? We have a comparison chart , a buyer’s guide , and an FAQ section to help you make your decision.

Best Overall Dog Crate: Elitefield 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate
Best Budget Dog Crate: MidWest Homes for Pets Double Door iCrate Dog Crate
Best Dog Crate for Camping: Orvis Tough Trail Folding Crate
Best Dog Crate for Airline Travel: Petmate Ultra Vari Dog Kennel
Most Portable Dog Crate: Love’s Cabin Pop-Up Dog Kennel

Elitefield 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate

Weight 12.4 lbs. (Medium)
Sizes XS-XL
Material Steel tubing for frame, 600D fabric and hex mesh siding for ventilation
Closure Zipper
Number of entry/exit points 3

Multiple storage options for carrying bags, treats, food and water
Easy assembly
Included crate pad with fleece base for added comfort
Carrying bag included with duffel strap
Double zippers lead to easier escapes
Fleece bed insert is not washable after accidents

An easy decision, the Elitefield 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate ($89) won best-in-show for our favorite crate during testing. A soft-sided crate with four mesh panels and two openings, the Elitefield exceeded expectations during testing for durability, design, and portability.

This crate has a pop-up frame mechanism, with a spring attachment for two pieces of the frame that fit together easily, where other crates struggled during the assembly process. The crate has two sides for easy entry and exit, and a top door to plop your pup in.

The double-zippered closures include a plastic lock to prevent dogs from pawing their way out of the crate. Reinforced canvas on the corners of the crate prevents damage from chewing, digging, or frame collapse. The mesh zippered entrances can be rolled up and secured when not shut for easy movement, and a fleece bed insert is included for a touch of added comfort over the frame canvas base.

Two zippered pouches attached to the crate are ideal for storing the carrying case or for extra goodies like treats, food, or leashes when you’re on the go. When disassembling, the crate has buckles you can shut securely and an included carrying case with a duffel strap to distribute weight while carrying with ease.

While we crowned the Elitefield with our highest honor, nobody’s perfect. The crate has two major flaws — the zippers and the included bed insert. The double zipper mechanism includes a locking device but requires an extra step, whereas other crates have a simpler single zipper, which is more difficult to paw or nose through.

The included fleece bed insert is a major plus, but our excitement dampened upon further inspection when we realized the bed insert had a piece of styrofoam inside. While the inside styrofoam can be removed through the zippered opening, the styrofoam feels a bit cheap and is not the most comfortable option for your best friend.

If your pup has a mess inside the crate, the styrofoam would immediately absorb the liquid and odor and need replacement. While the fleece side of the pad could be machine washable, the underside feels like a cheaper canvas and might not hold up to a spin cycle in the washer.

Loaded with features that enhance your pups’ crating experience, the Elitefield 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate wins our blue ribbon for the best dog crate we tested. The three panels for entry and exit provide ample options to easily get your pup in and out.

Plus, we assembled and disassembled this crate more easily than any others. Two connected bags that come with the crate mean you can load up any supplies your pup needs on the road or at home. The Elitefield will last you years and you may even want to purchase another as you expand your furry family.

MidWest Homes for Pets Double Door iCrate Dog Crate

Weight 22 lbs. (Medium)
Sizes XXS-XL
Material Metal, removable plastic tray
Closure Metal latch
Number of entry/exit points 2

Incredibly easy assembly
Includes detachable divider and carrying handle
Removable tray for cleaning
Possible choking/strangulation hazard
Not the most aesthetically pleasing
Wires can be bent in some circumstances

A crowd-pleaser among many new dog owners, the MidWest Homes for Pets Double Door iCrate Dog Crate ($62) is available in seven different sizes to fit all dogs, from the tiniest Chihuahua to the mightiest Doberman.

The iCrate comes kitted with a metal divider to grow with your pup and a carrying handle for easy transport. Constructed into a metal grid, the iCrate also includes a detachable tray for easy cleaning or replacement if your escape artist decides to get too crafty and shred the tray.

Of all the crates we tested, the iCrate made assembly quick and simple, with minimal steps included in the setup process. The iCrate holds up well to light protests, but if your pup experiences separation anxiety or has not been fully crate-trained, he or she could damage it.

While the latch is intuitive and easy for humans, some pups may find it simple to unlock the latch completely or partially, allowing them to become stuck halfway out the door. While this can become a major safety hazard, it highlights the importance of properly crate training your dog.

As with the other crates, the iCrate has a few drawbacks, some more serious than others. Due to the grid pattern, feisty pups can seriously hurt themselves while trying to chew or claw their way out, getting stuck halfway through the process. Such serious safety concerns cannot be ignored, so this crate is not for dogs who are voracious chewers or escape artists.

Also, because this crate is made of metal, the edges can scrape against the wall and create scuffs or scratches, especially when your dog moves or jostles around while crated.

Ultimately, the MidWest Homes for Pets Double Door iCrate Dog Crate is tailor-made for folks looking for a budget-friendly crate with options to divide the crate to grow with your puppy to adulthood. With options available for dogs up to 110 pounds, the iCrate is a foldable, durable solution for anyone looking to crate train their pup successfully.

Orvis Tough Trail Folding Crate

Weight 9.8 lbs.
Material DWR 100% recycled polyester, reinforced mesh ventilation windows

Removable pad for added comfort and ease of cleaning
Zippered mesh windows on side and front for easy entry/exit
Lightweight and carrying handle included
Challenging assembly
Slightly unstable
Canvas is slightly harder to clean than metal or plastic

A shady spot after a hot day on the trail, the Orvis Tough Trail Folding Crate ($179) offers the perfect spot for your tired pup to rest. The durable water-resistant (DWR) canvas fabric is rugged enough for rocky or variable surfaces without cutting or poking through, but it’s also extremely portable and easy to set up.

Two mesh window panels roll up for easy in or out access so your dog can comfortably lounge. And, they zipper shut to keep your pup contained when cooking hot dogs by the fire goes haywire. We loved testing this crate — it’s clearly designed with an active lifestyle in mind and is lightweight and portable enough to take from car to campsite with enough ease that you’ll wish your tent assembled as quickly.

The Tough Trail includes metal pipe framing that flips up so you can assemble and disassemble it quickly and easily. The reinforced mesh windows are heavy-duty to ward off strong-willed dogs that may want to chew their way to freedom. Zippers reinforced with canvas siding ensure your pup can’t push through or chew his way through.

In theory, the frame should be easy to put together. However, we had to crawl inside the crate and wrestle with connecting the two support crossbars, leading to a slightly frustrating experience. While the canvas is rugged, the frame appears a bit wobbly when pushed side to side.

If you have a very energetic pup, this might lead to a frame collapse or break under the sideways pressure. While the mesh panels are reinforced canvas, we noticed that the seam sewn on the mesh paneling revealed a weaker spot where the mesh could separate from the canvas after being worked on by a naughty pup.

If you love taking your four-legged friend on outdoor adventures, the Orvis Tough Trail Folding Crate is the paw-fect place for your dog; its portability, rugged canvas, and mesh paneling for easy ventilation make it ideal for spirited dogs that need a spot to rest at the campsite.

Petmate Ultra Vari Dog Kennel

Weight 10.8 lbs. (Small)
Material Plastic siding, metal ventilation siding and door
Closure Spring-loaded latch
Number of entry/exit points 1

Includes tie-down holes and tamper-resistant zip tie holes at the top of the door
Meets cargo requirements of most major airlines
Easy to clean
Only one size option comes with a handle
Less open ventilation than other crates
Door is difficult to assemble

Moving cross country or need to take your pup on holiday with you but they’re too big for the airplane cabin? The Petmate Ultra Vari Dog Kennel ($82) is the ultimate companion for air travel, coming in five differing sizes to ensure optimal comfort and safety when transporting your dog across the country or the world.

Most airlines require dogs to be able to sit, stand, and lie down without hunching over or touching the sides of the crate. Essentially, you’ll want your dog to be as comfortable as possible in a high-stress situation.

The Ultra Vari Kennel is designed for dogs up to 90 pounds, with a heavy-duty plastic shell, metal screws for added structure and durability, and a metal latch door with wire siding for ventilation. The plastic shell is easily cleanable but may need a crate pad for extra comfort for long journeys and to provide traction under your dog’s feet. The kennel includes four holes for tying down for additional safety when in cargo and two tamper-resistant holes to zip the door latch shut.

During the assembly process, the three pieces screwed together quickly. Afterward, the sturdiness of the crate truly shined through, showcasing the rough and tumble durability. We always hope airline workers treat our pups as precious cargo, but just in case, the Ultra Vari is rugged enough to make sure your dog stays safe no matter what.

While the Ultra Vari is a great crate, there are a few drawbacks, mostly in terms of differences between the product description and the actual product received. While the pictures showcase a silver metal grid and ventilation panels, the crate that arrived is a brushed black color.

Additionally, some dimensions stated may be incorrect, leading to a major snafu with airlines with specific dimension requirements. To avoid this, we highly recommend measuring your crate upon arrival and triple-check airline requirements to prevent any last-minute travel mistakes.

Another feature we wish the Ultra Vari included is a carrying handle. While this crate is quite large, it is designed for travel. Handles would make carrying it from the car to the airport much easier, even with the crate meant for dogs 25 to 35 pounds, which is the size we tested.

If you’re looking for an airline-compliant crate, look no further than the Petmate Ultra Vari Dog Kennel . While it is pricier for larger dogs, ensuring your best friend’s safety while traveling is priceless.

Cargo airline travel can be a highly stressful experience for both humans and dogs, so make the journey easier with a reliable kennel that has built-in safety features and your dog’s comfort in mind.

Love’s Cabin Pop-Up Dog Kennel

Weight 3.6 lbs.
Size One size: 36 inches
Material Polyester lining, mesh ‘windows’

Folds down to be packable anywhere
Material cleans up incredibly well
Can be taken anywhere on your adventures
A bit flimsy if your dog is a true escape artist
Only one entry point
Zipper does not hold up well

The Love’s Cabin Pop-up Dog Kennel ($23) is the most portable crate we tested. The crate folds into thirds for easy storage, making it ideal if you have limited apartment space, for the back of your car, or for on-the-go crating wherever you need it.

Seatbelt straps on the side of the crate ensure your pup is secure on long car rides when safety is paramount. The polyester material of the crate allows for durability on the trail or at the campground but is not plush on the bottom, so we do recommend adding a crate mat or bed for some extra comfort.

While only available in one size, the crate fits pups from small to medium with enough area for them to feel comfortable, though it isn’t ideal for larger animals.

While the crate is sturdy when occupied, it cannot withstand a strong breeze without being staked down. Fortunately, stakes are included. The mesh siding provides supreme ventilation for hot summer days to ensure your pup is cooled off, with a Velcro option to leave the door rolled up for easy in and out. The base of the crate cleans easily for any accidents and doesn’t leak through the base for smaller messes.

While portable and foldable, this crate is not the sturdiest option for escape artists or strong chewers. The polyester fabric is resistant to the elements but is on the thinner side, so determined chewers could break through.

When this dog crate arrived, the zipper was broken. We fixed it but could tell it would not hold up well to repeated pushing or strain against the zipper. Additionally, the mesh ventilation siding could be chewed through without much difficulty.

Our final beef with this crate is entirely our own fault, so don’t make the same mistake we did! The crate is advertised as a pop-up, and it certainly pops open with force, so don’t hold it anywhere close to your face.

Ultimately, the Love’s Cabin Pop-up Dog Kennel is a good choice for long road trips, camping, or long days on the trail when you need a portable, lightweight solution for keeping your pup comfortable wherever your adventures take you. Safety is paramount, and this crate can be buckled in and secured in the car for road trips or staked to the ground at the campground.

New Age Pet ecoFLEX Single Door Dog Crate & End Table

Weight 33 lbs. (Medium)
Material ecoFLEX (recycled polymers and reclaimed wood fiber by-product blend), stainless steel spindles
Closure Stainless steel latch

Multifunctional design as a furniture end table
Does not absorb stains or odors
Door latch is a bit flimsy
No detachable floor for easy cleaning
Heavier than other crates tested

The New Age Pet ecoFLEX Single Door Dog Crate & End Table ($76) is a beautiful, multifunctional dog crate that serves as both a durable place to house your pup and a chic decor option for your home.

The ecoFLEX crate hearkens back to the heydays of crating dogs when wood was the primary option, with designs distantly related to today’s more luxe wooden crates. In the 1980s, plastic mold-injected crates rose to popularity, while wooden crates were less favored due to their weight and lack of portability.

This crate showcases a newer trend blending decor and functionality into crates that double as furniture fixings in your home. The crate is constructed with ecoFLEX, a proprietary composite blend of recycled polymers and reclaimed wood fiber by-products.

It is non-toxic and non-porous, unlike some other wood crates, which allows for easier cleaning if your pup makes a mess or is a bit muddy. The stainless steel spindles allow for ventilation and hearty reinforcement against tough chewers.

We found this crate remarkably easy to assemble, taking about 20 minutes from start to finish. While the crate is a bit heavier than others we tested, it has the durability to match. Unlike other models, this crate is only for indoor use but has a sleek design that can double as an end table in your living room or bedroom.

While this crate is a stylish addition to your home, it does have some drawbacks. When assembling, the ecoFLEX shed small flakes, which required a full wipe down.

Additionally, the latch closure to the single entry/exit is a bit flimsy and is questionable at best for large dogs determined to escape. For such a durable crate, we found the simple flip-latch mechanism confusing considering the other heavily reinforced elements of the crate.

While the floor of the crate is non-porous, other wood crates on the market do have a detachable tray for easier cleaning without having to enter the crate to clean its nooks and crannies. The ecoFLEX also comes with plastic screws, which do not hold well up against a headstrong pup and can become undone if they learn how to rock them out of place over time.

The New Age Pet ecoFLEX Single Door Dog Crate & End Table is a solid choice if you want the perfect blend of decor and functionality in your home. We tested the medium crate option, which is still relatively small for dogs bigger than 50 pounds or lankier-legged breeds.

The crate’s surface does not mark easily, but the stain flakes off a bit during assembly. If you’re looking for a sleek design and a stylish way to crate your dog, look no further than the New Age Pet ecoFLEX crate.

Amazon Basics 2-Door Top-Load Hard Sided Dog Pet Travel Carrier

Weight 4.51 lbs.
Size One size: 23 inch
Material Body: Plastic, Door: Steel wire
Closure Spring-loaded steel latch

Includes a carrying handle
Multiple points of entry
Snap latched closures for added reinforcement
The screws proved tricky during assembly
Minimal size options for bigger dogs

The Amazon Basics 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dog Pet Travel Carrier ($26) works best for on-the-go travelers with small pups. The durable plastic carrier includes a spring-loaded door and top for easy access when in the car or on the go with a fussy dog.

While small in size, this crate is incredibly durable, withstanding even the most seasoned escape artist’s attempts to flee. The plastic crate is reinforced with latches and screws to secure it together, with a handle for easy carrying from point A to B. When not in use, the carrier breaks down easily for compact storage.

At a budget-friendly price, this Amazon Basics carrier is incredibly sturdy, secure, and cleans easily with any spills or messes. During testing, the carrier took a beating, coming away without any structural damage. While the carrier is designed for pups or kitties between 12 and 20 pounds, it can hold slightly more weight, so fear not if Fido has put on a few pounds.

The ventilation siding is an integrated design along the sides of the carrier and is small enough that super-chewers can’t break through. Plus, the steel wire door is heavy-duty to prevent any bending or cracking from feisty protests.

When put to the test, the carrier did not handle any weight on top of it well but bent under minimal pressure. The screws and nuts were quite tricky to assemble due to the curved edges where the top and bottom of the crate fit together. If this proves too difficult, the four latches provide quick assembly, but may not be the most sturdy.

The carrier does not include a soft pad, which we would recommend for longer journeys. Additionally, the handle bowed under weight and seemed unreliable over an extended period.

The Amazon Basics 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dog Pet Travel Carrier is a champion carrier for folks with small dogs who need a simple solution for long or short journeys. The crate can transport pups with worry-free durability, and easy cleanup for any messes along the way. We would suggest a small crate bed for extra comfort.

Dog Crates Comparison Chart

How We Tested Dog Crates

Any good crate is an investment in your dog’s safety and comfort, which is why we put each crate through its paces over our 2-month testing period. Katie tested each crate with her 8-year-old Shetland Sheepdog, Mason, who is a gentle guy. He isn’t much of an escape artist or a big chewer.

To put the pedal to the metal and put each crate through more rigorous testing, we relied on other pups to show us what more feisty dogs would do while in each crate.

With Mason’s approval stamp on his favorite crates (four paws up!), we tested each crate in situations and environments for which they were designed. We went camping in Colorado, took long car trips to the ski hill, set them up in our apartment, and took adventures to the park.

We carried them up and down stairs, from car to house and back again, and even assembled and disassembled them a few times. Katie admits, she even took a nap in a crate a time or two herself to see what her favorite little man would think.

While testing each crate, we simulated conditions that would push each to their limits to test strength, safety, ventilation, comfort, ease of setup, durability, ease of cleaning, multiple entrances, and portability. If you’re looking for other dog gear for your adventure pup, be sure to check out our guides to the Best Dog Life Jackets and the Best Dog Harnesses .

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Dog Crates

A crucial part of crate training your dog is the crate itself. It’s important to ensure that going into their crate is a positive experience, rather than feeling like a punishment. Start slowly. Make sure they get used to having a crate in their space and then build up the time they spend in their safe space.

Dogs spend most of their time during the day lounging or resting, so finding a comfortable and most importantly, safe place to rest is paramount.

Finding the best crate depends on your dog’s style. It’s important to address conditions like separation anxiety, excessive barking, or howling. It’s also important to find a crate that protects and comforts your dog when you are away from home or at night.

This list is not exhaustive but meant as a helpful guide to educate you on what a crate can offer and how to tailor a crate to your pup.

Once you’ve found the crate of your best friend’s dreams, check out our Best Dog Beds of 2024 guide for the perfect pair for your new crate.

Types of Crates

The type of crate your dog will need depends entirely on its disposition and reaction to being crated. Here are a few different types of dog crates and what type of dog may benefit from each type.

Metal/wire crate : This is a heavier-duty option for headstrong dogs and chewers. Metal crates include plenty of ventilation and are collapsible for strong portability. The MidWest Homes for Pets Double Door iCrate Dog Crate is a classic example of a metal grid crate.
Plastic crate: This crate is ideal for travel or dogs who are more feisty or resistant to crating. The reinforced plastic and metal latch doors are heavier-duty than a soft-sided crate.
Canvas or soft-sided crate: Soft-sided crates with mesh ventilation panels and zippered closures are ideal for more docile dogs or outdoor adventures requiring shorter-term or supervised crating.
Wood crate: An ideal combination of function and decor, wood crates are a chic option within your home to seamlessly style your crate to your interior design, much like the New Age Pet ecoFLEX Single Door Dog Crate & End Table .

Safety is one of the most crucial elements when choosing a crate that’s right for your dog. Ensuring that your dog is safe while crated for longer periods of time or just a short trip to the store includes making sure your dog can’t cut themselves trying to escape or in some cases, even worse.

Consider your dog’s temperament and ability to escape. For dogs who are strong-willed, we do not recommend wire mesh or canvas since escape is easier than a reinforced metal or durable plastic crate like the Petmate Ultra Vari Dog Kennel . Experts also recommend removing any collars or harnesses prior to crating to prevent any snags leading to compression or strangulation.

Inspecting your crate when it initially arrives is crucial for finding any weak points or flaws your pup can overcome. At first, supervise your dog to see if they start any destructive behaviors after being crated. Prevention is the best way to deter your dog from becoming injured or destroying your new crate.

Ventilation

Ventilation is an important factor to consider while choosing your next crate. Certain breeds of dogs struggle more to get airflow due to their genetics. So, ventilation panels are paramount to ensure your dog gets enough air, especially if they have separation anxiety and may feel stress while crated.

Choose canvas or wire crates like the MidWest Homes for Pets Double Door iCrate Dog Crate with ample ventilation. Compared to plastic or wood crates, canvas, and wire versions offer plentiful panels for fresh air to circulate.

We all want our pups to be as comfortable as possible, so choosing a crate they’ll spend hours in is important. Be sure to choose the correct size and make sure they can sit, stand, and lie down with ample room to spare.

Seeking a crate with an integrated crate pad like the Elitefield 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate is an excellent option for added comfort. Or, purchase a separate crate pad so your pup’s joints are supported.

Ease of Setup

While this factor is more important to consider on behalf of owners, having a crate that is more difficult to set up than a Lego set is every owner’s worst nightmare. Crates should not take more than 10 minutes to assemble and should be simple to disassemble when not in use.

Our favorite crate to set up was the Love’s Cabin Pop-up Dog Kennel . Its simple pop-up framing mechanism (rather than screws and bolts) made it the easiest crate to assemble and disassemble, but it lacked durable elements for strong chewers or escape artists.

While some crates included nuts and bolts, assembly can still be relatively simple. Wood crates like the New Age Pet ecoFLEX Single Door Dog Crate & End Table require a more complex assembly process but are akin to a furniture piece in the home rather than a simple crate. Even though it is a more decor-adjacent piece than the other crates we tested, assembly took under 30 minutes.

Ease of Cleaning

As pet owners, we know that pets can make messes, nearly always when we’re running out the door or late to an event. Mason, our tester’s dog, is an enthusiastic puker and throws up about once every 3 months, so she’s well-versed in the joys of cleaning crates, carpets, and other fabrics he deigns acceptable to be sick on. The last thing we, as pet owners, want is a crate that is difficult to clean. Thus, durable fabrics or wipeable surfaces are a must.

Crates like the MidWest Homes for Pets Double Door iCrate Dog Crate include a removable tray that is simple to hose down after sickness or accidents, making this crate incredibly simple to clean, sanitize, and reuse over and over. Other crates, like the Orvis Tough Trail Folding Crate , are designed with durable canvas to wash down or easily wipe out any muck or messes.

Portability

Portability is the last crucial factor to consider. It’s important to easily carry around your crate while in transit and fold it down while not in use. Crates like the Amazon Basics 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dog Pet Travel Carrier include a carrying handle for ease of use while your dog is crated or for storage.

While some crates are meant as permanent fixtures in your home, crates like the Elitefield 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate fold up and include a carrying case with a duffel strap for simple portability, regardless of weight.

Consider how much weight you can comfortably lift and available space to store your crate when not in use. Choosing foldable crates if you’re in a studio apartment, or popup frames is an ideal choice when you’re tight on space.

The right crate will always depend on your dog and their needs. For more headstrong dogs, reinforced or sturdy plastic crates are better over metal grid crates that dogs can bend or chew through. A light canvas option like the Love’s Cabin Pop-up Dog Kennel is perfect for more docile pups. Budget, safety, ventilation, portability, ease of cleaning and comfort are crucial factors to assess when deciding what crate is best for your dog.

Your chosen materials depend fully on your dog’s temperament. Heavy-duty plastic or steel wire best ensures your dog’s safety while crated. Canvas or mesh is an ideal short-term crating solution for monitoring your pup or a longer-term solution if your dog is more laid-back. Wood is a tried and true classic option for blended style and functions as a cornerstone of interior design in your home while safely housing your pup when needed.

A crate should include enough space for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down with ample space. Measuring your dog and adding extra inches to accommodate for a comfortable crating experience is crucial.

Additionally, a crate should not be too big to prevent any opportunities for rough play or extra leverage to escape. You can add divider panels to ensure a puppy is safely crated. This also allows a crate to grow with them into adulthood.

After properly crate training your dog, the time of crating depends on their age. For puppies under 6 months old, 2-3 hours is the max due to their bowel size and ability to stay safely restrained. Young dogs should not exceed 4-5 hours during the day. For mature dogs, crating should not exceed 8 hours daily, with a walk for relief every 4 hours.

The Best Dog Beds of 2024

We tested the best dog beds of 2024 and came up with options for every type of adventure dog. Top picks include Ruffwear, Orvis, Fur Haven, and more!

The Best Dog Life Jackets of 2024

Dogs have an entire swimming style named after them. But just because they love the water doesn’t mean they don’t need a dog life jacket to keep them safe.

Katie Davis is a contributor and gear tester for GearJunkie. She has been writing about skiing, hiking and camping for 5+ years. Prior to that, she has worked with brands like Faction Skis, Teton Gravity Research, TREW Gear and K2 Skis. Based in Westminster, Colorado, Davis is an avid skier, camper, hiker, traveler, and pain au chocolat connoisseur.

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Best Soft Dog Crates For 2022

When whisking your dog away on an adventure or holiday, it can often be difficult to create a comforting environment for them to feel at ease in.

However, soft dog crates have proven to be a fantastic solution, providing your pup with a little home from home with an easily portable and cosy kennel!

Soft-side models are now the chosen crate for dog owners always on the move, but should you join the revolution?

Whether you just want a comfier crate for your canine or you desperately need a 2-in-1 pet carrier, we’ve dipped our paws into the market to find the best soft dog crates for you and your pooch!

Not what you were looking for? We’ve also reviewed the best dog crates and cages , and car crates .

Our Top Picks

The top soft dog crates reviewed, 1. crufts soft dog crate.

If you’re after distinction for your classy canine, it doesn’t get more official than this Crufts soft dog crate!

Made from a strong tubular framework, the crate boasts an easy to erect structure in a green and grey design adorned with official Crufts logos.

But far from being style over substance, the cage has plenty of features that make it a cut above the rest in both reputation and function!

Each crate comes with two free fabric bowls for water and food. A storage pouch offers a nifty space for treats and toys, and there are also three meshed windows for ventilation and easy access.

And as if that wasn’t enough, it’s also The Kennel Club’s recommended soft crate of choice.

There are also security straps to fix your crate in place when travelling by car although we would always recommend using a dedicated car travel crate when in the car and only using soft crates as a home for your dog.

Official Crufts logos
2 free fabric bowls included
3 doors with roll down blinds

Specifications

Sizes: 24", 30", 35"
Dimensions: 76 x 55 x 62 cm (30")
Weight: 2.5 kg (30")

2. Henry Wag Folding Fabric Travel Crate

Perfect if your dog needs their own space to relax, the Henry Wag Folding Fabric Travel Crate can easily be popped up when required and then stored flat when not.

It is available in sizes from Small right up to Jumbo, with a good guide on which to pick for your dog. To assemble it, it just zips together, and fabric mesh panels on three sizes will ensure they can still see out and have enough air. There are flap covers just in case this isn’t needed though, for instance, if they are in a place which makes them nervous.

The inner floor panel with foam insulation is washable which is good for mud or accidents. Each crate includes a faux Sheepskin/nylon pad, carry case and pegs to secure the crate to soft ground which is good if you want something which you can take camping.

Easy to store away
Can be fastened to ground
Sizes: S, M, L, Jumbo, Giant
Dimensions: Small 47 x 36 x 40cm, Giant 102 x 71 x 79cm
Weight: 2.3kg

3. Pawhut Folding Fabric Soft Pet Crate

While plenty of soft dog crates make life easier for owners, nowhere near enough of them actually benefit your pup. Because even if a crate has all the innovations in the world, if your dog doesn’t find it comfortable, they won’t like using it!

Luckily Pawhut has thought of that by adding a warm lambswool mat to the soft crate. Not only is Pawhut’s crate incredibly cosy, but it’s also practical and durable with 600D oxford material outer fabric that’s water-repellent with a PVC coating as well.

The crate can be anchored into the ground with the supplied loop and ground stakes if you want to take it outside, or it can be folded up and carried in a bag. There’s also a handle on top of the crate for easy transportation as well.

Removal lambswool mat
Mesh windows on all sides for four way air flow
Durable pet carrier design
Size: One Size (suitable for small dog or puppy)
Dimensions: 46 x 36 x 41 cm
Weight: 1.15kg

4. Pets At Home Fabric Kennel

Although soft crates provide a fantastic, portable alternative to wire dog crates, their fabric material is not always the strongest against dogs that like to scratch and tear.

This is where nylon mesh can be a dog owners best friend. Significantly more durable than polyester, nylon won’t succumb so easily to claws and biting!

Not only is mesh sturdier, but it’s also great for proper ventilation as well, so your dog will feel even more comfortable thanks to the four mesh windows within this crate. And since it is an easy pop-up design, you can take it with you to the park or a beach when your dog needs a little shelter from the elements.

We found it so easy to pop up when needed, and it folds completely flat compared to some others which were still a little bulky. Ideal for both regular use or those just-in-case moments.

Suitable for indoor & outdoor use
Four-sided mesh walls for good ventilation
Tear-resistant fabric
Dimensions: 55 x 85 x 65 cm
Weight: 5-6 kg

5. AmazonBasics Premium Portable Soft Pet Crate

If you want a soft crate which you can take in the car and use when in an AirBnB in Devon, you need something fully portable and easy to manage.

You need a home for your pet which you can take from A-Z with absolutely no fuss, and this Premium Portable model from AmazonBasics could hopefully be just that!

It’s a great option for travel-anxious pets as, unlike other dog crates, it offers a high-ceiling interior to ensure that your pooch has plenty of room and doesn’t feel claustrophobic or caged – perfect if they’re away from home but you still want them to feel cosy.

It even includes a free fleece pet bed, so your dog is always comfortable, and thankfully won’t need too much enticing to get inside! A top handle and adjustable strap make coming and going a breeze, and there is also plenty of storage options for treats, toys and more.

It’s the stress-free travel survival kit that you and your mutt have both been begging for! While it is pretty large to transport, if you have a large dog it is needed, and in our experience dogs love it.

Bear in mind to never use within a car though – always opt for a dedicated car travel crate.

Fleece pet bed included
Shoulder strap for easy carrying
Easy fold-down for storage
5 different colours available
Sizes: 21" (53 cm), 30" (76 cm), 36" (91 cm), 39"(1 m)
Dimensions: 66.5 x 45.2 x 46 cm - 106.4 x 78.5 x 78 cm
Weight: 1.64 kg - 5.9 kg

6. Petsfit Indoor Dog House

If you’re looking for a soft crate that gives off less of a travel bag vibe, this Indoor Dog House from Petsfit finally gives your pooch their very own luxury room in the house!

Coming in a lush oxford cloth design, this four-poster dog bed makes the perfect accent to any home and comes with a washable, soft fleece mat to turn your pet’s home into a palace. Three zipper entries offer an open and spacious feel, and a patented steel frame provides a sturdy structure.

It’s best used as an indoor home for your pup, as although it provides easy set-up and fold-down storage for travelling, we thought that its small handles don’t make it the easiest to carry once a pet is inside.

The fabric used for this crate is also not the strongest when compared to those higher on our list, so if your mischievous mutt loves to plan its escape, it’s not going to be the right option for you. We did like the inner steel frame to give it some sturdiness, though – perfect for fidgeters.

Patented steel inner-frame for sturdiness
Clips to secure door zippers
Removable and washable soft pet pad
Sizes: S, M, L
Dimensions: 51 x 43 x 41 (S) 76 x 51 x 48 (M) 92 x 60.2 x 7.6 (L)
Weight: 3 kg (S) 2.5 kg (M) 4.6 kg (L)

7. Fauna Dog Puppy Lightweight Grey Crate

Able to act as the perfect travel crate if you’re taking your small dog or puppy to the vet or park, this soft carrier with a sturdy lightweight frame for extra support and stability is secure and able to hold its shape.

There are mesh windows for ventilation and to allow your dog to see out. The zippers will lock for safety, which is great if you’re carrying your dog on public transport, and two accessory pouches will keep items such as treats and collars or leads to hand.

Despite being sturdy and well built, it goes up in seconds and can easily be taken down and stored when not in use. Available in three sizes, you will be able to choose the one which best suits your breed.

We also like the nice long carry handles, which is a feature many other soft crates lack.

Top and side entry
Machine washable soft felt pad
Ventilation mesh
Dimensions: 60 x 42 x 42cm - 91.4 x 63.5 x 63.5cm
Weight: 2.98kg - 5.01kg

Buying Guide

How we selected the best soft dog crates.

If you’re looking at soft dog crates, chances are you’ve already realised wire crates aren’t the best option for you or your pup. But while a soft-side crate will undoubtedly make a comfortable spot for your prized pooch, they are several key features you need to look out for depending on what you want to use your crate for, especially if you plan on taking it on trips!

You don’t want your pup to feel confined, and so the ideal crate should offer them plenty of room for them to move around in. If you’re not sure about the size of your dog and what they’ll need, please consult our ‘crate size by breed and weight’ guide further below.

We wanted to try and find a selection of soft crates of various sizes. Surprisingly, there was a great choice of larger soft crates, but some lacked the quality of smaller soft crates due to their size. We looked at thousands of reviews to ensure that any soft crate which promises to fit a labrador really does do as it says.

Lightweight

If you want to be able to move your pet’s portable home around at will, you’re going to need it to be as lightweight as possible! Luckily, we found that most soft crates are generally light anyway due to their materials, but if you’re purchasing a particularly large one, make sure to check the specified weight of the product to make sure you can lift it.

This was especially relevant when we tested smaller crates that may be carried with the dog inside. You don’t want to be adding to the weight of the dog too much, but you can’t give way to quality.

As well as the crate being lightweight, if you plan on transferring it around, you’ll need it to have suitable handling. We looked for things like long top handles and adjustable over-the-shoulder straps to make life a lot easier!

The handles also had to be strong. A few products we disregarded stated that handles came unravelled when carrying the crate, or that the material of the handle was very uncomfortable.

Foldability and easy set up/storage

Many soft-sided crates are foldable, which means they don’t require tools to assemble. A good soft crate should be a fabric material and collapse down to be stored as and when required.

Some have an inner steel frame to give a bit more sturdiness – great for dogs that can be fidgety. We still looked for the importance of easily building or folding down for quick storage, though. You don’t want to feel like you’re building a 10-man tent.

If you’re only going to use the crate on holiday’s and trips, collapsibility is a great feature as it means you can stow away the kennel when not in use and also easily transport it in the car.

Durable material

The one huge con of soft dog crates is that they can often be made of materials that are easily torn and ripped. This is especially the case if you’re pup is the type to go out of their way to rip them up! We searched for soft crates made of a more durable nylon or polyester material as opposed to a soft cloth.

Plenty of poorly reviewed crates had stories of dogs chewing through doors or ripping mesh windows to get out, which is something you would likely not want to risk being repeated so they didn’t make the cut.

Windows and ventilation

Naturally, none of us particularly enjoy being thrown into a box with no windows. Therefore you may want to choose a crate that provides plenty of visuals for your pup to relieve any anxiety they might feel. More importantly, these windows must also offer plenty of ventilation so your pup can breathe easy!

However, we also know that some dogs actually prefer quieter, darker environments to help them feel calmer. So, there are also a few crates on our list which are closed in but still offer mesh windows for breathability.

Comfort mats or beds

Not a necessity, but crates that offered these as a bonus got some extra points. Despite their name, a soft crate’s base is never actually that comfy, especially when against the ground or a hard floor. A comfy bed or fleece partition is incredibly useful in making your pooch feel at home, and will save you shelling out for a suitably-sized dog bed to put inside!

But we still made sure they were easy to clean, could be removed from the crate and again, weren’t easy to rip or chew.

Other Buyers Ask...

Are soft dog crates as good as wire ones.

The best thing about soft crates is that they fold a lot flatter and easier than wire ones, meaning you can take a pup’s home with you wherever you go. If portability is crucial for you, they are undoubtedly a better option.

It all depends on what you need, though. If your dog’s crate will be a permanent fixture in your home, a wire crate may be best. They also offer a bit more visibility and extras like secure latches which keep them safe when unattended.

Is a soft dog crate right for me and my dog?

If you have a small to medium dog and are looking for a comfortable, portable pet home, the soft crate is the choice for you. However, you must consider these things before purchasing.

If your dog is boisterous and doesn’t enjoy being put in a crate, a soft-side model is not a great choice. The material they’re made of is nowhere near as sturdy as wire, and so they will likely easily escape. And if your pooch just enjoys ripping stuff up in general, you might want to think twice!

If you’re purchasing a crate for the purposes of crate training, soft crates tend not to be the greatest option. Accidents are much harder to clean up due to the fabric materials, and so will get dirty and unhygienic fairly quickly.

Can a soft crate be used as a car crate?

No! Although their pet carrier-like appearance may suggest they are suitable for car journeys, soft-crates are not meant to be used in vehicles! They are meant to act as homes for your pup, and so offer no safety features when it comes to actual travel.

Instead, purchase a travel dog crate . Soft crates which fall under this category have extras such as seatbelt attachments and lead connections.

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9 best dog crates 2023 UK; including large sizes and fabric crates

All recommendations within this article are informed by expert editorial opinion. If you click on a link in this story we may earn affiliate revenue.

Clare Mellor
Published : 16:29, 8 Aug 2023
Updated : 10:27, 9 Aug 2023

ALTHOUGH they sometimes get a mixed response from pet owners, the best UK dog crates can be incredibly useful for many reasons.

While some feel that they're cruel, the RSPCA has confirmed that they are helpful in certain situations.

For example, they can provide a safe way to transport dogs and can help a dog recover after surgery.

Crates can also be handy if an owner needs to leave the house for an hour and doesn't want their agitated dog running around.

They can also be really useful for puppy training sessions, to help encourage puppies to feel comfortable in their new homes.

The basic rules for making a crate a help rather than a hindrance? Always associate the crate with safety and security: make it comfortable and ensure it's spacious enough for your pet. Remember: never use them as a form of punishment for your pet.

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We've rounded up some of the best dog crates available to buy now in the UK.

Best dog crates at a glance:

Best portable dog crate: Ellie-Bo Deluxe Sloping Puppy Cage
Best large dog crate: Mercia 8 x 4ft Berkshire Dog Kennel & Run
Best fabric dog crate: HugglePets Lightweight Fabric Dog Crate Carrier
Best soft dog crate: Petsfit Lightweight Foldable Soft Dog Crate
Best wooden dog crate : Pawhut Pet Cage
Best dog crate for puppies : Wicker Pet Carrier

Ellie-Bo Deluxe Sloping Puppy Cage

The slanted shape of this dog crate should make it easy to transport

Ellie-Bo Deluxe Sloping Puppy Cage, £54.07 at Amazon - buy here

Dog owners rate this slanted dog cage for easing their pet's worries on car journeys.

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It fits most car boots well, comes with a fleece liner and folds flat when you're not using it.

There's a steel 'non-chew' metal tray that you can remove to clean off any dirt or food debris.

There's also a training guide included, to help get your pup comfortable with using the crate.

One happy Amazon customer says it's a "Great product for keeping pooch safe when travelling".

Shoppers have also rated it for being easy to travel with and amazing value for money.

Specs - Size: 76L x 54W x 54H cm Weight: ‎ 8.84 kg

Mercia 8 x 4ft Berkshire Dog Kennel & Run

This wooden dog crate suits large breeds who need plenty of space

Mercia 8 x 4ft Berkshire Dog Kennel & Run, £545 from Homebase - buy here

A must for the active dog – or the one who loves to snooze outdoors – this wooden dog kennel and run has a spacious 4ft x 4ft dry storage area and 4ft x 4ft secure outdoor area.

The mesh front panels allow plenty of fresh air and light in while letting you have a good view of what your pup is up to inside.

There are two doors to get in and out plus a door that connects the two areas, so your dog will have plenty of room to move around.

It gives new meaning to the expression 'in the dog house' - because they'll really enjoy being in this one.

Specs - Size: 8 x 4ft

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HugglePets Lightweight Fabric Dog Crate Carrier

HugglePets Lightweight Fabric Dog Crate Carrier, with Mat and Treat Food Bag - Small Pink, £28.95 at Amazon - buy here

This handy dog crate from HugglePets is super lightweight and easy to carry if you need to transport your pup.

It comes in a range of sizes - from small to extra-large - as well as a choice of colours and prints, including green and pink camo for an ultra-stylish pooch.

This well-priced crate has some nice features such as storage pockets, mesh sides and a comfy mat for your pet to sit on.

It's also handy that it easily folds down for storing when it's not in use.

One Amazon shopper wrote, 'Frame is very sturdy and was straightforward to put up.'

Specs - Size: 50L x 34W x 36H cm Weight: ‎ 2.65 kg

Petsfit Lightweight Foldable Soft Dog Crate

Petsfit Lightweight Foldable Soft Dog Crate Portable Strong Fabric Kennel, £60.99 at Amazon - buy here

Pet owners like this lightweight fabric crate for travel, use in the car and as a handy space for pups to rest when they've gone out.

Ideal for small and medium-sized dogs, it has a roll-up flap window and side pocket for food and even includes a soft, fleece mat.

'This is a fantastic way to transport my medium size dog in the car. I leave it in and just get her in and out every day. It wipes clean easily and keeps my car spruce. The best thing of all is she loves being in there, writes a happy dog owner.

Specs - Size: 47.8L x 37.9W x 20.7H cm Weight: ‎ 2.55 kg

Pawhut Pet Cage

Pawhut pet cage, £104.99 at Wayfair - buy here

This multi-function crate from Paw Hut is a safe and secure home for your pup and doubles up as an end table for your home.

It's wooden with a durable steel frame and lockable double doors - and it's suitable for small or medium-sized dogs.

The large tabletop it provides is useful for storing pet products or you can use it as an extra piece of furniture in any living space in your home.

With two openable doors, it's easy for your pooch to get in and out and also gives you better visibility of them inside.

Specs - Size: 59.7cm H X 83.3cm W X 55.3cm D Weight: ‎ 20.7kg

Wicker Pet Carrier

Prestige Wicker Pet Carrier, £69 at Not on the High Street - buy here

If you're looking for a pet crate to transport a puppy or small dog, we love this Wicker Pet Carrier Basket from Prestige Wicker.

Also suitable for other small pets, this vintage-style wicker carrier has to be the most stylish way to carry your pup.

As well as looking chic, this handcrafted wicker carrier will provide a sturdy and comfortable ride for your pet. You can pop them in and out via the opening at the top and see your furry friend through the sidebars, which also provide air ventilation.

One shopper wrote, 'It's really well made and the 'lock' is simple, but effective.'

Specs - Size: W50cm L29cm H30cm

Harriet Dog Cage

Archie & Oscar Harriet Dog Cage , £143.99 (on offer) at Wayfair - buy here

If you're worried about a dog crate taking over your living room and looking unsightly, this design by Archie & Oscar might just be the one for you.

With a handy tabletop, it can be used as a side table or TV cabinet as well as a large dog crate.

It's made from wood and heavy metal wires for durability and the size is flexible as you can merge two or three crates together to have the size that works best for your home.

It has three access doors so it's easy for your dog to get in and out and you have a 360° view of them when they're inside.

There's also a handy removal tray if you want to remove any dirt or food residue quickly and easily.

Specs - Size: 81cm H x 107.5cm W x 71.5cm D

Cardys Dog Crate Puppy Pet Cage with 2 Doors

Cardys Dog Crate Puppy Pet Cage with 2 Doors, £79.99 at Amazon - buy here

If you're looking for a straightforward double-door pet cage, this Cardys Dog Crate ticks all the boxes.

The two doors make it super simple for your pup to get in and out, and the crate is made of durable steel making it sturdy and secure. Plus, it's anti-rust and built to last.

The crate is also portable with a handle on the top if you need to use it to transport your pet.

The removable tray makes cleaning the cage a doddle and it can also be folded down completely for easy storage when it's not in use.

Specs - Size: 47.6L x 29.1W x 31.9H centimetres Weight: 17.2 kg

A 4-Pet Dog Playpen for Small Dogs

A 4 Pet Dog Playpen for Small Dogs, Portable Pet Playpen for Puppy, £39.99 at Amazon - buy here

For small dogs and puppies, this dog playpen provides a lightweight and flexible crate for inside, outside or on the move.

It's hexagonal with a mesh outer layer for ventilation and so you can see your pup inside. Plus, it comes in a range of sizes and the top is removable so you can easily access the interior to clean it.

It's also super simple to set up and folds down flat when you're not using it so it's easy to store away too.

As one happy customer says "It assembles itself! And is very roomy for the pup to sleep & play".

Specs - Size: 43.4 x 34.7 x 4.6 cm Weight: 1.31 kg

How much are the best dog crates?

As with anything, prices vary – but you definitely don't have to break the bank to get a decent crate.

In our search, we found some great options for around the £50 mark and above, with the cheapest coming in at just over £28.

Where to buy the best dog crates in the UK

You can find good quality dog crates at the following online retailers:

Pets at Home
Lords & Labradors

What to look for in the best dog crates?

The size of the crate you go for is one of the most important factors: the point is to make your dog feel safe and comfortable, not cooped up in something that's far too restrictive.

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Your dog should therefore be able to walk into and around the crate without having to crouch.

Ensuring the crate has plenty of airflow and space for your dog to look out for is another must. Meanwhile, features like removable crate trays, movable casters and latched doors will ensure that your crate is easy to clean, versatile and secure.

Deals and sales
Shopping Pets

Safety Features

View our range of crash tested and crush proof safety dog crates

Find the perfect crate to fit your car.

All MIMsafe UK products have undergone rigorous crash tests at RISE Research Institutes of Sweden. Thanks to its robust construction, it can withstand massive impact from all directions

Our MIMsafe UK pet carrier and crates offer a safe and comfortable space for your pet to travel in any car. Made from the best materials available to minimize the risk of injuries to either passenger or pet in a collision.

Over 30 years of experience with functional design and manufacturing of safety products for the modern automotive industry, ensuring the MIMsafe UK products are the leading the field in pet transport safety.

When Safe Travel Is Everything

MIMsafe’s products are created with love and care for the animals. For us, the most important thing is that everyone in the car travels safely.

Send us a message

Best Dog Crates | The Ultimate Dog Crates Guide

Stephen Walsher
October 17, 2021

Our Best Dog Crate Roundup

Having a furry friend is one of the best feelings in the world. However, it also means, as dog owners that we have to take care of our pooches and make sure they are safe and healthy at all times.

Crate training is an important element when training your dog. It is beneficial for both the owner and the puppy, giving them a place to call home.

You will also be assured that your dog is not getting in trouble in the middle of the night! The best dog crate can help your dog stay safe and make sure that it does not create chaos in your home.

Check out our best dog crate roundup below – we’ve done all the research so you don’t have to!

Last update on 2024-05-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

#1 Pet Store Metal Wire Dog Crate

Absolutely brilliant metal dog crate and ranked as our best dog crate – buy one!

The Pet Store Premium Dog Crate with Lockable, Removable Nylon Wheels, X-Large

Produced from high-quality, heavy duty, powder coated steel with a hammer tone finish for longer life
Features unique rounded corners and opening roof for easy access
As well as lockable and removable wheels for safe, easy & comfortable transportation
And an easy clean, removable base tray
Approx. Size: 123cm(L) x 75cm(W) x 81cm(H)

Last update on 2024-05-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The pet store dog crate is by far our favorite dog crate. It’s the perfect size and easy to put together. With 4 sizes available, it’s great for great and they’re big enough for any dog to move about comfortably.

We also like that it’s easily moved around due to the wheels attached underneath each half of the crate. The top is secured on or off with the hinges, so you can leave the top off for a little extra ventilation if needed.

The Pet Store Premium Dog Crate is the last crate you will need to purchase for your dog. It is solid, sturdy and well made. Our pups curled up in this crate, which means they felt safe and enjoyed their time in it (even with the door open)!

We highly recommend this crate to anyone looking for a long term, durable dog crate.

#2 MidWest Homes for Pets Dog Crate Starter Kit

Ultimate convenience & perfect starter kit for new pet parents in this Midwest Homes for Pets

MidWest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Double Door iCrate 58.4cm (22-Inch) Long Dog Crate Kit, Includes Dog Crate, Pet Bed, 2 Bowls & Crate Cover, Divider Panel, Patented Features, Black, 1522DD-KIT

ULTIMATE CONVENIENCE & PERFECT STARTER KIT FOR THE NEW DOG OWNER. Everything you need arrives in 1 carton so you can enjoy more time with your new family member
XS DOG BREED KIT INCLUDES EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO GET STARTED: 1 fully equipped 2-door iCrate, 1 dog bed, 1 crate cover & 2 (10 Ounces) pet bowls that affix to the dog crate; Dog crate measures 55.88L x 33.02W x 40.64H centimeters when assembled
STARTER KIT ideal for XS dog breeds with adult weight up to 5.44kg
DESIGNED TO FIT & USER FRIENDLY: Fleece pet bed & polyester crate cover fit your dog crate & are machine washable/dryer friendly; 2 Snap’y Fit dog bowls designed to attach to the dog crate keeping food & water in one convenient location
Durable, strong, quality construction creates a secure place for your dog to fulfill their natural instinct to den. Proper ventilation, large door openings with low thresholds, and rounded corner clips make iCrate a safer crate experience

Whether you are a first time puppy parent or adding to your existing iCrate, the new Midwest Homes for Pets iCrate Double Door Kits are designed to make your life easier. Easily convert to a larger dog crate as your puppy grows with three different size options for petite, medium and large dogs. These unique features and high quality materials make the iCrate Double Door Crate a smart choice for your home.

It literally ships with everything you need to get started – making it one of the better wire crates on the market:

1 Double Door iCrate,
1 crate-sized dog bed,
1 privacy dog crate cover &
2 appropriately-sized pet bowls.

We understand that you love your new puppy and want to help them transition into a happy and healthy life. The iCrate kit has been designed by experts to provide you with everything you need for a smooth transition.

Your puppy will learn quickly to be housetrained and have fewer accidents. The included dog bed provides a cozy atmosphere for your pet, creating a safe haven for them throughout the day.

The privacy crate cover reduces anxious behavior and protects your dog from harmful UV rays.

over 8000 reviews! Yes you read that correctly - over 8000 !!
great package deal
value for money
snap bowls can be tight and hard to remove

#3 PawHut Pet Crate End Table Wooden Dog Kennel Cage

For pets up to 20 pounds; one latch door
ecoFLEX composite material, superior durability to wood
Available in three colors and four sizes of each color
Easy 10 minute, no-tool assembly
10 year manufacturer warranty

Our first non metal dog crate and wooden dog crate. It’s an amazing medium dog crate, suitable for medium-sized and small dogs. If you’re looking for a stylish crate station for your dog, this is it for you. A lot of people are often worried about the mundane design of their chosen dog crates. This dog crate will easily blend in with the beautiful surroundings of your home and serve as a comfortable place for your dog.

It comes with wire caging that doesn’t restrict proper airflow – a real positive for those considering wire crates. Meaning, they don’t feel trapped inside this cage, and they always have access to a beautiful view of the home.

It is made from durable materials with an easy to clean base, making maintenance easy.

looks great and fits in with furniture
brilliant quality
Wooden Dog Crate
easy to assemble
probably not suitable for larger more powerful breeds

#4 X-ZONE PET Foldable Soft Sided Crate 3-Door Pet Kennels for Dogs and Cats

Best Budget Dog Crate

X-ZONE PET Foldable Soft Dog Crate 3-Door Pet Kennels for Dogs and Cats Sturdy Durable Pet Crate for Travel,Indoor&Outdoor Use Multiple Sizes (24-Inch)

Size: 63 x 43 x 9 CM (24”L x 16.5”W x 16.5”H inch) Provide enough living space for your lovely pet. Please measure your pet before buying.
Unique Three Doors Design: Comes with a top, a front and a side door which is convenient and easy for your pet to get in and get out. The mesh doors make the crate breathable while using. Velcro to fix the mesh door for easy viewing.
Foldable Design: It makes you easy to take out and store. It can be assemble in seconds which is really convenient to take out for travelling or other outdoor activities. Or you can put the crate inside the house as a pet sleeping room.
Self-locking Zippers Design: All zippers are self-locking to prevent your pet from unzipping the door and sneaking out.The strong steel tube frame make the crate sturdy and durable.
Easy to Clean: Removable design make the crate easy to clean. It could be taken apart to wash so it can be washed regularly.That make a comfortable living space for your pet.

At number 4 on our best dog crates roundup is the X-ZONE PET Foldable Soft sided Crate 3-Door Pet Kennels. It’s a durable dog crate, offering ample space without making them feel too crowded or restricted.

It comes with three unique doors that allow for convenient and easy usage in any condition. The mesh door helps with easy viewing and proper airflow for your pets.

If you have always been worried about a dog crate taking up a lot of space in your home, you should know that this is a foldable dog crate station that is easy to use and store in any place. You can take it outdoor with you and folds flat when you get back home. If it had a sturdier base we would have ranked this higher on our best dog crate guide.

It comes with a self-locking zipper design that restricts your pets from unzipping the door and sneaking out. This dog crate is also durable and will last for years to come.

locking zippers
brilliant for travel
easy storage
no sturdy base

#5 Iris Ohyama, Foldable pet carrier

Suitable For: Crate size is ideal for pets/dogs either upto 12kg or 20kg in weight. Ideal crate starter kit.

Iris Ohyama, Dog crate/Cage, Transport Box for Dogs, Cats, 2 Doors, Clips, and Safety Latch, Plastic (PP) BPA Free, L55 x W31.5 x H36.4 cm, Train, Car and Airplane, FC -550, Black

INCLUDED IN THE PACKAGE: 1 Foldable pet carrier bag, MATERIAL: Polypropylene, ABS plastic, steel
DIMENSIONS: W55 x D31.5 x H36.4 cm
CAPACITY: ideal for small to large breed dogs or any animal weighing less than 10kg. The Pet Circle is designed to offer plenty of space and quick access for your pets.
FOLDABLE: The Iris Ohyama FC-550 pet carrier is foldable and easy to store when not in use.
CONVENIENT TO USE: The pet carrier features two-way doors, which are useful for unloading or loading your pet into the crate easily and quickly.

Iris Ohyama and Foldable pet carriers come with two convenient openings for easy usage, one of the better travel crates – ideal for dog owners the world over and an ideal travel dog crate. You can take it around with you anywhere you go without worrying about feeling a strain on your muscles.

In addition to this, the construction allows proper airflow, and it is a well-ventilated dog crate for your pets. This dog crate comes with an easy carry handle that eliminates any stress on your wrist and allows you to take it around with you.

It only weighs 3.6 kilograms, therefore offering a lightweight attribute at your fingertips. It can handle pets up to 12 kg without any issues. Similarly, the black and orange color scheme is also quite beautiful as compared to other mundane options in the market. A great entry into our best dog crate list.

more than 80 positive reviews
incredibly portable
Plastic Dog Crate
clever folding system
easy to clean
some parents feel the crate is flimsy
can rattle when being transported

#6 Strong Metal Military Pet Kennel Large Dog Wire Crate with Lockable Wheels

Best Heavy Duty Dog Crate

No products found.

Ideal for medium-sized and large dogs. This is a heavy duty dog crate that is made from reinforced hard steel. It is also made from non-toxic materials that ensure your dog stays healthy.

In addition to this, this metal dog crate is made from anti-rust metal frame material, ensuring long usage.

This metal dog crate can stop even the most aggressive canines from escaping. It comes with a double door and locking caster design that allows you to interact with your dog without letting them out. A great heavy duty crate.

The wheels allow for 360-degree mobility, and you can take it anywhere you want. It’s easy to clean and assemble, and you can take out the removable tray for easy cleaning. One hell of a sturdy dog crate.

very sturdy
heavy duty materials
lockable wheels
removable tray included
instructions could be better
not a folding metal dog crate

#7 EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate

EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed (2 Year Warranty), Indoor & Outdoor Pet Home (24' L x 18' W x 21' H, Blue Gray)

Size: 24″ long x 18″ wide x 21″ high; 1″ wider and 3″ higher than most other brand 24″ soft crates, so the EliteField soft crate makes your dog feel more spacious; fully assembled; set-up and fold-down in seconds, no tools needed
The crate frame is made of strong steel tube; the crate cover is made of high quality durable 600D fabric and hex mesh fabric; a well ventilated, stylish, lightweight and durable crate
Three mesh doors (on the top, front, and side) for convenience and for sunlight and breathability; two accessory pockets on the top and side; removable and washable cover and bed
International products have separate terms, are sold from abroad and may differ from local products, including fit, age ratings, and language of product, labeling or instructions..International products have separate terms, are sold from abroad and may differ from local products, including fit, age ratings, and language of product, labeling or instructions.

This dog crate is soft enough to offer maximum convenience to your dog and strong enough to make sure that your dogs do not go out. Ideal for small dogs and medium dogs.

The soft fabric of this dog crate also offers a well-ventilated environment, allowing maximum airflow. You can choose one of the dozen beautiful colour schemes, depending upon your personal preferences.

It comes with a removable and washable dog crate cover and bed so cleaning is a breeze. Wonderful travel dog crate.

available in 15 styles
available in 4 different sizes
convenient for travel
some parentd have reported a 'vinyl' smell

#8 Ellie-Bo 2 Door Wire Crates

Ellie-Bo Silver Standard Large 36 inch Dog Cage

Dog Crate Size: 91.4 x 61 x 66 cm. Ellie-Bo’s Deluxe Double Door Dog Crate is the ideal blend of style and practicality. It is vital that the cage fits your dog’s size. We have dog cages in all sizes, and a pet cushion that comes with it.
Easy to Clean and Transport: This dog crate is easy to clean, and the entire dog cage is detachable and can be disassembled without the use of any tools. It can also be folded flat, which is a very useful feature when taking it out of the house.
Safe Double-Door Dog Crate: Each dog cage has two dog access points. The entrances also have sliding heavy-duty latches, so you don’t have to worry about them being opened in unexpected situations.
Ideal Dog Crate for Training: A metal chew-proof tray and training guide is included to provide a safe companion for daily training. During pet training, the crate can keep your pet safe while providing a comfortable space for dogs and their owners.
Stylish Puppy Crate and Dog Crate: Not a fan of the standard dog crate aesthetic? Ellie-Bo’s two-door crate has a stylish home-style cover and pad that blends in seamlessly with the rest of your home’s decor.

This folding metal dog crate has two doors, allowing convenient access to the crate and also offer a simplified mechanism for cleaning the tray.

Our final entry into our best dog crates roundup, this folding metal dog crate is suitable for different breeds and sizes, comes with rounded safety corners that prevent any injury to humans and also restrict any damage to the surrounding environments.

You can take it anywhere you want without any issues. Convenience is top of the agenda with its slide bolt latches.

Available in 3 sizes - suitable for adult dogs and puppies
Over 5000 positive reviews
Slide Bolt Latches
Folding Metal dog crate
people have reported sharp points to the frame

Why Do You Need a Dog Crate?

Some people don’t like the idea of a crate and see it as a ‘cage’. However, crate training brings a multitude of benefits to your fingertips.

Most dog crates can be used to enhance your dog’s natural instincts. In addition to this, you can also train them to seek quiet and comfortable environments when they feel overwhelmed.

Another important benefit of using a dog crate is to teach your dog not to chew on items around the house.

When you train your dogs with the help of a crate, you can ensure that they do not make a mess in your home. Dog crates are quite beneficial for housetraining as dogs do not like to soil their own dens.

The crates on our best dog crates guide are also useful when taking your dog outside the home. Here are some other benefits of using dog crates.

When you leave your dog alone at home, you can be sure that they will not destroy your home. Similarly, you can also be sure that they have proper access to food and air.
Another benefit of using a dog crate is that you can quickly train your dog and integrate them with your family. You can limit their bad habits by encouraging control and establishing a proper routine.
A dog crate will ensure that your dogs are safe from any accidents in your absence. This can also prevent accidents at night.
Dog crates are also helpful for your dogs in case guests come over, when you have family time or mealtime in your home.
You can take your dog outside the home in a safe manner using a dog crate.

How To Properly Train Your Dogs with a Crate?

Here are some helpful tips to ensure that you can train your dog the right way and choose from our best dog crate roundup.

Introduction to Crate Training

The first step is the introduction between the dog and the crate. You should put the crate in a place where you spend a lot of time with your dog. Moreover, you need to put a soft blanket or towel in the crate to ensure that it offers a welcoming space for your canine.

While some dogs often see the crate as a new space to explore, there will be other dogs who will have a hard time stepping into the crate.

So, ensure that you make a comfortable space for your dog and leave the door open at all times. Do not force your dog into the crate.

Once your dog is comfortable with the crate, you need to start bringing their meals to the crate. This will allow you to create an association between meals and crate.

If your dog still has a problem entering the dog crate, place the meal near the crate and let them do the rest.

The one thing that you have to make sure of is that your dog does not whine a lot while being in the crate. If they start whining, it means that you have put them in for too long a period. Therefore, you should start with smaller periods of time inside the crate and let them get comfortable.

When you have to leave your dog alone at home, you need to place them inside the crate with enough food and water.

You can also lure them into the crate using their favorite treat. This will associate their favorite meals with the crate. You should also place their safety blankets or favorite toys inside the crate when you are leaving.

Once you come back home, give them a treat and let them out of the crate.

Crate Your Dog at Night

You should also start putting your dog in the crate at night. Use a favorite treat to lure them inside the crate. If your dog feels uncomfortable in the crate at night, you should place the crate inside your bedroom during nighttime. It will help them feel safer and closer to you.

Once they are comfortable throughout the night, you can start placing the crate outside your bedroom.

How Do I Choose the Best Dog Crate for Me?

There are hundreds of different dog crates available. There are various factors that will help you decide on the right dog crate for your pet pooch. Large dogs or more aggressive dogs will see you choose a heavy duty dog crate or wire crate.

Let’s explore these factors in detail and see what you can do while choosing the right option for your dog.

Dog crates come with hard and soft sides. One of the best benefits of using a crate with hard sides is that it is capable of safely restricting your pooches. In addition to this, hard-sided crates are also easier to clean and maintain without any hassles.

On the other hand, soft dog crates are ideal for traveling outside your home. However, these are not recommended for an overnight placement of your dog. These are also relatively harder to clean as compared to their counterparts.

Construction

You should take a look at the construction of the chosen dog crate to make sure that it will not give up or buckle under pressure after a short period of time.

You cannot choose a soft or poorly constructed crate for a powerful dog such as a Pitbull or German Shepherd. Ensure that the crate is made from high-quality materials and will not break apart after frequent usage.

When choosing the right dog crate for your home, you need to ensure that it can easily sustain your dog without any problems. This means that you have to pay special attention to the size of your dog and the respective dimensions of the chosen crate.

Different crates cater to dogs of different sizes and breeds. If you have a larger dog (like a Bernese Mountain Dog), you will need to choose a crate with specific dimensions that can cater to their requirements, both in size and ensuring a heavy duty crate is used. The dog should not feel restricted or limited inside the crate. The size of your dog crate is of the upmost importance .

Cleaning is a must; to provide a hygienic environment for your dog. So, take a look at the ease of maintenance when choosing your dog crate.

A lot of manufacturers offer removable trays or slide-out trays for their crates, making them easily accessible to clean. This makes the job quicker and easier!

Some crates come with washable covers and pillows that are easy to remove and clean separately from the cage itself. The material is also important because it will not only last longer but will also keep your dog’s fur from sticking to it. The best material is plastic or metal that can withstand chewing by puppies and adult dogs alike.

Another thing to consider is whether or not you want wheels on your crate. You may find it useful if you need to move it around while cleaning or just want an easy way of transporting it since some models are lightweight enough (under 15 pounds). However, the downside is that dogs may get used to being moved around in their cage which could lead them to acting restless if they aren’t moving around when they want something like food or attention.

So think about what kind of dog you have before deciding on whether or not this feature would be beneficial for them.

Our best dog crates guide has covered everything you could ever need in a crate for your furry friend.

Hopefully now you’ve read our best dog crates roundup, you know what to look for in a dog crate and whether or not you actually need one.

If you’re still on the fence, here’s a quick summary of what we covered:

A crate is a great way to help your dog feel safe and secure in their own space
It’s important that the crate be big enough for your dog to stand up, lie down, and turn around in comfortably
You should also consider how easy it is to assemble, clean, and store your crate. Check out the folding metal dog crate above for an easy to assemble dog crate
Choose one that’s made of durable materials that won’t break or rust with time

This concludes our best dog crates roundup! Let us know what you think in the comments section below!

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19 best dog beds, according to pet parents

Washable and comfy, these beds will keep pets and owners happy

Given that 31% of UK households now have a dog and they are a very important (if not the most important) member of the family, it’s no surprise there's a huge choice of dog beds out there, including orthopaedic options, ones made to soothe sensitive pups and even self-heating designs. Many pampered pooches will also have day beds for when they need to catch a quick 40 winks (watching out for delivery drivers and cats is tiring work).

They expect their creature comforts, which is why we’ve searched high and low to find the best dog beds on the market to ensure they get a great night’s sleep. We’ve also asked pet parents to give us their recommendations.

These are our top picks but read on for everything you need to know before you add to basket.

Best luxury bed

Ivy & duke the lounger dog bed.

Good breathable bed

Silentnight airmax pet bed.

Good for anxious dogs

Silentnight donut calming dog bed.

Bedsure Medium Dog Sofa Bed

John Lewis Gingham Pet Bed, Seafoam - Medium

Good for lying outdoors

Lesure waterproof dog bed.

Joules Chesterfield Pet Bed, Grey - small

Good for larger dogs

Slumberdown dog bed (x-large).

Good for cosy sleepers

Pets at home memory foam square dog bed.

Good orthopaedic dog bed

Emme washable orthopaedic dog bed, what’s the best type of bed for a dog.

Much like humans, the best bed for your dog will depend on how they like to sleep. Some like to spread out, so need a bit more room, while others like to burrow in and get extra cosy. These are some of the key factors you should consider before investing, according to Johanna Buitelaar-Warden, founder of Lords and Labradors.

Even if your dog usually likes to curl up, make sure the bed is big enough for them to stretch out in if they want, but not too big that they struggle to get cosy.

“To determine the size of bed needed, measure your furry friend from nose to back paws while they're sleeping,” says Buitelaar-Warden. “Then, add 25 centimetres onto this figure, and choose a bed with a similar length.”

You’ll also need to consider where the bed will live (choose a private, draught-free spot) and whether you have the space for your chosen design.

“Consider both your dog's size and sleeping habits when choosing the right bed,” says Buitelaar-Warden. “Pay attention to how they sleep daily, whether they stretch out or prefer curling up.” Here are the designs she recommends for different sleep styles.

Mattress or cushion style beds : “These provide ample space for dogs who love to sprawl out in their sleep as they have open sides and can be easily moved around.”

High wall beds: “These offer support for those who like to curl up with something to lean on.”

Donut beds : “They provide ample support and are ideal for anxious dogs seeking comfort in a cocoon-like space.” Like nests, these beds are made from super-soft material with a raised rim to make them feel safe and protected.

Box beds : “These suit those pups who love to stretch out, but still want a soft headrest.”

Orthopaedic beds : “They cater to specific health needs, providing support for joint problems or senior dogs.” These beds are often shallower and can feature supportive memory foam mattresses.

Den (or hooded) beds : “These are perfect for burrowers like Dachshunds or Jack Russells, offering a cosy hideaway with an attached blanket for added comfort.”

If you have a mucky pup, you’ll want a bed that has a removable cover you can pop in the machine or is completely machine-washable (although check it isn’t too big and bulky to go in your washing machine). Your dog’s bed should be washed once a week or every two weeks at a minimum. You can also air it outside and give it a vacuum in between washes.

Dogs are prone to chewing their bed or occasionally dragging them around the floor, so look for a durable fabric. You also want something soft, yet stain-resistant. Microfibre is a good option as it also absorbs moisture well if your dog comes in wet from their walk. Cotton is another great pick as it’s breathable and hypoallergenic.

Now you know the essentials, let’s run through our favourite picks. All prices are for a medium-sized bed.

Ivy & Duke The Lounger Dog Bed

The Lounger is a quality dog bed that comes with a memory foam pad for extra comfort and sides for resting tired heads on. With an easy-to-remove machine-washable fabric cover, it’s also a practical pick. Plus, the brand sells spare fabric covers to use while your first set is in the wash, and waterproof covers for rainy days.

This bed was tested by the GHI , who sent it out to seven panellists (and their pups) to try at home over several weeks, reporting back on comfort and design. The GHI experts also assessed it for any colour fade or shrinkage after multiple washes. Testers were impressed with the quality of the material and found it washed well and retained its shape.

The dogs were happy too, with one owner telling us: “The memory foam cushions provide a lot of support and comfort for the dogs, and they really seem to enjoy it.”

There is a choice of five sizes and 15 different chic designs, including a duck egg check and pink tweed. Yes, it’s pricey but this is a premium buy that’s made to last.

Key specifications:

Silentnight knows a thing or two about good sleep, so its Airmax pet bed is a smart buy. It features a mesh fabric that allows air to circulate through the mattress to stop your pup from overheating. The cushion is also dual-sided with a fleece top for nights when they want to be cosy and a cooling side made with quilted, moisture wicking fabric for warm evenings.

The durable cover is also removable and machine washable so you don’t have to worry about muddy paws. This is a great, year-round bed.

You’ve probably seen these donut beds on social media (certainly if you're an avid watcher of cute dog videos). Ideal for more anxious pups, they act like a cosy nest that supports and protects them as they sleep.

This bed (again from the pros at Silentnight) has a super-soft, plush cover and is filled with responsive fibres to cocoon them while they nod off. The whole bed is machine washable so you can keep it smelling fresh and it comes in a choice of five shades.

This orthopedic foam bed from Bedsure is another cosy buy that's great for pups that need a little extra support. It comes in eight colours and has a cover that zips off so you can throw it in the wash. It's not too deep, so dogs that struggle with mobility can get in and out easily, but it has raised sides for leaning on.

Dog owners are fans of the soft velvety interior material and firm shape. There are clear measurements online to help you choose the best size, and there are options for smaller and large dogs.

We appreciate this might not be the most practical bed for winter days when they come in covered in muck. However, we think it would make a lovely summer bed or day bed. Plus, the cotton cover is machine washable (in cold water) if they do get it mucky.

It's good quality, but this is one for small dogs and some owners had to remove some of the stuffing as it comes up quite high. That said, dogs that don't have mobility issues will have it squished down in no time!

If you want a bed they can lie on in the back garden, in the car or if you have a senior dog prone to accidents, consider this waterproof mattress. Water runs off the durable Oxford fabric, which is also resistant to hair and easy to spot clean with a cloth. The hidden zip also makes it simple to disassemble and wash.

Note that some owners felt this was water-resistant rather than waterproof as some liquid did leak through to the foam inside. However, most were satisfied and it’s a good price for a reliable mattress.

This velvet, soft-touch bed offers luxury at an affordable price. It has the look of a Chesterfield sofa with a lovely thick base to keep them off the floor and cosy during the colder months.

It also has raised, solid but flexible sides they can rest their head on. It's beautifully soft, great for snuggling up in and you chuck it in the washing machine.

This quality mattress from the experts at Slumberdown has been designed with bigger dogs (or multiple dogs) in mind, with an extra-large size available.

The thick cushion is filled with soft hollowfibre and has a fleecy finish with a removable, washable cover. Spare covers are available if you want to change the design, too.

With a fleece top and a memory foam mattress, this bed offers a good balance between firm and comfy. It’s definitely one for those who love to snuggle up as they sleep.

It also has a machine-washable cover so you can nix any BO smells. One buyer noted that the dip in the middle isn’t great for dogs who like to stretch out, so avoid if you have a spreader!

Great for senior dogs, this uniquely designed bed from Emme is topped with plush faux fur and has an egg-crate orthopaedic foam base that evenly distributes body weight to soothe any aches and pains.

It also has an easy access design and a non-slip bottom. Two strong zippers mean you can easily remove every part of the bed for washing. Either put on a cool wash or hand wash to extend the bed’s life. This is a great option for a gentle, restorative sleep.

Morris & Co. Willow Bough Dog Mattress

If you’re looking for a stylish daybed for your pampered pooch, this Morris & Co design may be for you. Made from a linen and cotton blend with a thick, soft pad and a waterproof, non-slip base, this will be a great spot for napping. It also features a muted, nature-inspired William Morris print.

The cover can be unzipped and washed if needed. We suggest shaking it out and giving it a quick vacuum to freshen up every few days, and pop a towel over it on wet days.

3 Peaks Scalloped Dog Bed

"The 3 Peaks dog bed is great if you want to take your pet on a walking holiday as it’s wipe clean after muddy walks and dries quickly,” says Fiona Andrews, dog parent to miniature wire haired dachshund, Ronnie. “It’s super tough for any dogs that like to have a good chew on their beds too.”

Tough, durable and comfortable, this is the perfect pick for dogs who love to explore (see it here modelled by Labrador puppy, Ralph). It's also portable, so great for taking on adventures.

Paw Print Oval Pet Bed

If they just want somewhere cosy to lay their head at night, this affordable paw print design is more than adequate. It has a wipe clean base and non-slip backing and is machine washable (note, you can’t remove the cushion).

Owners recommend sizing up as it’s quite compact. It also doesn't come in large, so probably isn’t suited to bigger dogs, but it’s a comfy, budget pick.

Pets at Home Teddy Oval Dog Bed Grey X Small

"My dog Angua (seen above) adores her ‘teddy’ bed from Pets at Home,” says owner Emma Franklin. “It’s got soft but high walls so she feels like she’s in her own cave, and is super soft and cosy from the fleece lining.”

This one only comes in extra small (dimensions: 21 x 48 x 39cm) so it's best for smaller dogs who like to curl up like Angua. It also has a removable cushion that's machine washable, so freshening up is a cinch.

Swyft K9-03 Dog Sofa

If your dog is always stealing your spot on the sofa at night, why not get them their own? For the pup who has everything, there’s the Swyft K9-03 mini sofa, which features stain-resistant velvet fabric, a comfortable foam-filled base and bolster cushions for their head. It's also available in eight different colours.

Yes, it’s an indulgence and we suggest adding a blanket for mucky paws but some VIPups deserve only the best.

Oliver Bonas Wavy Black Pet Bed

Okay, the aesthetics are more for you than them, but if you want a statement bed to fit into your home, this monochrome wavy pattern with green piping will definitely do the job.

Made from cotton and polyester, it has a non-slip base, removable cushion inners and a zip closure, so you can pop the cover in the wash at 30 degrees.

Barbour Tartan Quilted Dog Bed, Olive Green

This premium Barbour bed boasts a classic waxed cotton outer and inner tartan design – perfect for a country dog (or those that aspire to be country dogs).

It has soft sides they can rest their head on, a dropped front for easy access and the cushion pad is removable and washable. It does come up small due to the chunky sides, so we suggest sizing up.

Wainwright's Adventurer Self Heat Mattress Dog Bed

For pups that like to be warm and cosy, consider this attractive bed from Wainwright’s. The cushion has a layer of heat reflective material designed to retain your dog’s heat.

It’s not just for winter though – flip the dual-sided cushion so your furry friend can sleep on the cooler side when the weather heats up. The cover is also machine washable for easy cleaning.

Lords & Labradors Essentials Herdwick Den Dog Bed

Providing the ultimate comfort for burrowers is this den bed from Lords and Labradors, which combines a comforting donut design with a built-in cover.

Made in Italy from super plush fabric with a removable cover for washing (although, note, it's hand-wash only), this is the perfect bed for hibernating in. We kind of want one for ourselves.

Alison is head of content for the Good Housekeeping Institute, responsible for product reviews across homes, beauty, wellness, family and food & drink. She lives by the William Morris quote that you should “have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.” Alison has over 15 years' experience as a lifestyle editor and has written features on everything from misophonia to how to dress like Claudia on The Traitors. She has also interviewed everyone from Dame Joanna Lumley to the Kardashians. In her spare time, you'll find her hanging out with Monty the cocker spaniel and refreshing the Sezane website every five seconds.

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Henry Wagg Folding Fabric Dog Crate. Sizes: S-L | Colours: Grey | RRP: From £34.99 |. This folding travel crate is designed for use both while travelling or in the home. It is lightweight and ...
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 Very Best Dog Travel Crates for 2021
4. Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed. One of the most popular travel crates on the market, the Sleepypod combines the features of hard-sided and soft-sided crates for a car-friendly, dog-friendly travel experience. All Sleepypod products have passed the American Center for Pet Safety crash testing.
The 11 Best Dog Travel Crates for Life on the Go
Diggs Eventur Inflatable Travel Kennel. A first-of-its-kind inflatable crate, the Diggs Eventur travel kennel allows you to inflate and deflate your dog's home away from home as needed. Shop on Diggs. This unusual inflatable travel dog crate from Diggs is lightweight, transportable, and comfortable.
Dog Car Crates & Travel Carriers
Keep your four-legged friend safe while you travel with a dog car crate from Lords & Labradors. Get free delivery when you spend over £75. ... 5pm on +44 (0) 1790 720900 or [email protected]. ... 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, ...
Best Dog Car Crates 2022
Gunner Kennel G1 Dog Car Crate. The first dog car crate I chose to feature here is made in America by Gunner Kennels. This is one of the sturdiest and most durable dog car crates on the market at the moment. Featuring rotomolded double-walls, it provides twice the impact protection of a normal crate.
best dog carriers crates
The best dog carriers and travel crates for cars: Me and My Pets Car Carrier Best dual-purpose carrier. 6. ... Best dog crate. 6. Karlie Transport Box. Price: RRP £139.10 | VIEW OFFER. These are not the most attractive pieces of equipment but they are built for a purpose and they fulfil that purpose very well indeed. Unlike the others above ...
Best dog crates for car travel to ensure safe journeys
Best dog crates for car travel at a glance: • Best overall: Ellie-Bo Deluxe Sloping Dog Cage - view on Amazon UK. • Best dog crate for large dogs: Cadoca Dog Car Crate Aluminium Transport Box - view on Amazon UK. • Best overall fabric dog crate: Morpilot Pet Carrier Bag - view on Amazon UK. • Best dog carrier for small dogs: pecute Pet ...
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 ...
Best Dog Crates in UK for Small, Medium & Large Dogs (2023)
4. Best for Car Travel: Amazon Basics Folding Soft Dog Crate. The Amazon Basics Folding Soft Dog Crate is our top pick for car travel and the best soft dog crate option. Crafted with durable polyester fabric and a lightweight PVC frame, it provides a cosy and secure resting place for your dog during your journeys.
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.
Best Dog Crates for Cars 2024
Ellie-Bo Deluxe Sloping 30 Inch Folding Crate. Ellie Bo Deluxe Sloping Puppy Cage Medium 30 inch Black Folding Dog Crate... £39.95. Buy on Amazon. The Ellie-Bo 30 inch crate truly is deluxe. It even comes with a fleece liner and training guide to make the dog crate experience more enjoyable for your dog.
Best Dog Car Crates Reviewed for 2024
2. A R North America Inc Variocage Single Crash Tested Dog Cage. View Product. The Variocage Crash Tested Car Crate is an innovative range of dog crates which have been tested in crash and roll-over situations. In fact, it is the only one on the market which passed Front, Rear and Roll-Over Crash Tests.
The Best Dog Travel Crates to Hit the Road With in 2023
G1 Gunner Kennel. Sure, we've got some great options for travel crates, but this comes out as the best travel crate for dogs for a number of reasons. One of the few crates crash-test certified by the CPS, this is one of the safest options for you and your pooch pal when traveling by car. The double-walled crate provides protection against ...
Best Dog Crates & Accessories for 2024
Ellie-Bo. Known for their simple, durable and well designed crates, Ellie-Bo offer the best value crates on the UK market. Their range has standard and deluxe models along with options for a black or silver finish. Ellie-Bo stock a range of dog crates available in 5 sizes - from 24 inch to 48 inch.
(IATA) Compliant Dog Crates for Air Travel
Trixie Gulliver Transport Crate. Rating: 3/5 (13) IATA compliant Made in Italy. Delivery in 1-2 working days. Size 5: 79 x 58 x 60 cm (L x W x H) £89.99. Size 6: 92 x 64 x 64 cm (L x W x H) £124.99. Size 7: 104 x 73 x 75 cm (L x W x H)
Pet World
At Pet World, we have an excellent reputation for providing the highest quality pet crates. With over 10 years of experience, we know what it is that makes an excellent crate, and we have been endorsed by many of the top pet handlers in the UK. Free Next Day Delivery. All orders placed before 3pm Monday - Friday will be dispatched the same ...
The Best Dog Crates of 2024
Best Overall Dog Crate: Elitefield 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate; Best Budget Dog Crate: MidWest Homes for Pets Double Door iCrate Dog Crate; Best Dog Crate for Camping: Orvis Tough ...
Best Soft Dog Crates Reviewed for 2024
7. Fauna Dog Puppy Lightweight Grey Crate. View Product. Able to act as the perfect travel crate if you're taking your small dog or puppy to the vet or park, this soft carrier with a sturdy lightweight frame for extra support and stability is secure and able to hold its shape.
9 best dog crates 2023 UK; including large sizes and fabric crates
Best dog crates at a glance: Best portable dog crate: Ellie-Bo Deluxe Sloping Puppy Cage. Best large dog crate: Mercia 8 x 4ft Berkshire Dog Kennel & Run. Best fabric dog crate: HugglePets ...
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Quality. Our MIMsafe UK pet carrier and crates offer a safe and comfortable space for your pet to travel in any car. Made from the best materials available to minimize the risk of injuries to either passenger or pet in a collision.
Best Dog Crates
X-ZONE PET Foldable Soft Dog Crate 3-Door Pet Kennels for Dogs and Cats Sturdy Durable Pet Crate for Travel,Indoor&Outdoor Use Multiple Sizes (24-Inch) Size: 63 x 43 x 9 CM (24"L x 16.5"W x 16.5"H inch) Provide enough living space for your lovely pet.
19 best dog beds 2024 UK
The Lounger is a quality dog bed that comes with a memory foam pad for extra comfort and sides for resting tired heads on. With an easy-to-remove machine-washable fabric cover, it's also a ...