Does the thought of traveling or moving with your furry best friend fill you with worry? Many dog owners face the challenge of finding a safe, comfortable, and portable space for their pets. Traditional crates can feel heavy and bulky, making trips a hassle. This is where soft-sided dog crates shine, offering a lighter, more flexible solution for crates training, travel, or just providing a cozy den at home.
However, choosing the perfect soft crate is not always easy. You worry about durability—will it hold up to playful paws? You need to ensure good ventilation so your dog stays cool and comfortable. Finding that balance between sturdiness and portability can feel like a puzzle. We understand these concerns, and we are here to help you navigate the options.
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about soft-sided dog crates. We will explore the best materials, essential features to look for, and how to choose a size that fits your dog perfectly. Get ready to discover the ideal travel companion or home base for your pup. Let’s dive into finding the soft crate that makes both you and your dog happy.
Top Soft Sided Dog Crates Recommendations
- Medium 4-door folding pet travel kennel with soft sides for cats, dogs, rabbits, and other small animals
- Top door for sunlight and breathability, front and side doors with zipper lock clips for added security; Included straps to roll up and secure fabric doors when leaving the portable dog crate open
- Carrying handle and padded shoulder strap for easily transporting when pet kennel is folded; includes removable fleece pet bed pad
- Convenient pop-up pet crate design can be set up and folded down in seconds with no tools required
- Product Dimensions: 30 x 21 x 21 inches (LxWxH). Water-resistant base
- Soft-sided dog crate for keeping a furry 4-legged friend safe and comfortable when traveling, includes a Small dog crate made of tan polyester fabric and a lightweight yet sturdy frame
- Sets up in seconds with no tools needed; folds flat for easy portability and compact storage;2 doors (top and front) for easy loading and unloading
- Secure zipper closures, plus fastening straps to keep unzipped rolled-up doors in place and out of the way; mesh windows and front door provide ventilation on all 4 sides
- Recommended for medium sized breeds such as Blue Heelers and Golden Retrievers (50 lbs)
- Product dimensions: 29.92"L x 21.3"W x 21.3''H (LxWxH)
- Discover the Newly Released Light Gray Soft Dog Crate! This 36" soft crate measures 36" long x 24" wide x 28" high, which is 2" wider and 4" higher than most other brand 36" soft crates. The extra space provides a more spacious and comfortable environment for your dog. The soft crate is fully assembled and can be set up and folded down in seconds, without requiring any tools
- The crate frame is constructed from sturdy steel tubing, while the crate cover is made of high-quality, durable 600D fabric and hex mesh fabric. This makes a well-ventilated, stylish, lightweight, and durable crate that provides a comfortable and secure environment for your dog
- The crate features three mesh doors located on the top, front, and side, providing convenient access, improved sunlight, and breathability. The front and side doors have zipper locks to ensure safety and security. Additionally, the crate has two accessory pockets located on the top and back for added storage. The crate cover and bed cover are both removable and washable, making maintenance and cleaning easy
- The crate comes with a free carrying bag and fleece bed. The crate has a handle and hand carrying straps, while the carrying bag features both hand carrying straps and an adjustable padded shoulder strap, providing many carrying options. The crate can be folded down to a height of just 3 inches, making it easy to transport and store
- You will benefit from a 2-YEAR WARRANTY. Our products come with a quality guarantee, money-back guarantee, and customer satisfaction guarantee
- Foldable Design for Easy Transport: This soft dog crate features a foldable function, allowing for effortless unfolding and folding. Equipped with a convenient handle, it is easy to store and transport. Whether using it at home or while traveling, it saves valuable space and provides a comfortable living environment for your pet.
- Stable Structure and High-quality Materials: Made with high-strength iron pipes and high-quality 600D Oxford fabric, this collapsible dog crate is both lightweight and sturdy. The Oxford fabric is long-lasting, tear-tough, and convenient to clean, ensuring the crate's long-term durability.
- Good Ventilation: The dog crate includes three breathable mesh windows that provide ample airflow, keeping your pet comfortable inside. The mesh design allows you to easily observe your pet's condition, enhancing their sense of security and comfort. Additionally, you can unzip the door to roll up the mesh, allowing your dog to come and go freely.
- Detail-Oriented Design: Built-in safety leash secures your pet's collar, keeping them securely in the crate. The soft plush pad inside provides a comfortable relaxation space. The soft dog crate also features an external storage pocket for placing toys or treats during outings.
- Multiple Size Options: Available in three sizes to accommodate different breeds, from small to large dogs. Before purchasing, please measure your dog’s standing length, width, and height and refer to the size chart in the images to ensure you choose the correct size.
- This 30" soft crate measures 30" long x 21" wide x 24" high, which is 2" wider and 4" higher than most other brand 30" soft crates. The extra space provides a more spacious and comfortable environment for your dog. The soft crate is fully assembled and can be set up and folded down in seconds, without requiring any tools
- The crate frame is constructed from sturdy steel tubing, while the crate cover is made of high-quality, durable 600D fabric and hex mesh fabric. This makes a well-ventilated, stylish, lightweight, and durable crate that provides a comfortable and secure environment for your dog
- The crate features three mesh doors located on the top, front, and side, providing convenient access, improved sunlight, and breathability. The front and side doors have zipper locks to ensure safety and security. Additionally, the crate has two accessory pockets located on the top and back for added storage. The crate cover and bed cover are both removable and washable, making maintenance and cleaning easy
- The crate comes with a free carrying bag and fleece bed. The crate has a handle and hand carrying straps, while the carrying bag features both hand carrying straps and an adjustable padded shoulder strap, providing many carrying options. The crate can be folded down to a height of just 3 inches, making it easy to transport and store
- You will benefit from a 2-YEAR WARRANTY. Our products come with a quality guarantee, money-back guarantee, and customer satisfaction guarantee
- Space-saving Design: Garnpet collapsible dog crate is designed to save space when not in use, making it an ideal choice for pet owners who are looking for a pet crate that can be easily stored away.
- Portable and lightweight: Our soft dog crate is made with lightweight materials and comes with convenient handles, making it easy to carry with you on the go. Whether you’re traveling with your pet or simply need to move the crate from one room to another, Garnpet collapsible soft dog cage is the perfect solution.
- Stable Structure: The foldable crate is made with a sturdy steel frame and high-quality waterproof Oxford fabric, ensuring that your pet is safe and secure while inside. The mesh windows allow for ventilation, while the zippered door makes it easy to access your pet.
- Easy to clean: The fabric on this soft side dog kennel is waterproof and easy to clean, which is ideal for pet owners who want a low-maintenance solution. Simply wipe it down with a damp cloth or sponge, and it will be as good as new.
- Versatile: This dog crate can be used for a variety of purposes, from crate training your puppy to providing a safe and cozy space for your pet to rest. It’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, and the collapsible design means you can take it with you wherever you go.
- Soft-sided dog crate for keeping a furry 4-legged friend safe and comfortable when traveling
- Includes an XL dog crate made of tan polyester fabric and a lightweight yet sturdy steel frame
- Sets up in seconds with no tools needed; folds flat for easy portability and compact storage
- 2 doors (top and front) for easy loading and unloading
- Secure zipper closures, plus fastening straps to keep unzipped rolled-up doors in place and out of the way
- Comfortable and Breathable Dog Cat Carrier: This cat dog soft sided carrier bag has 3 sided breathable windows. It can ensure air circulation, so that your pet is not stuffy and unable to breathe inside the bag. The nylon mesh window also makes it easy for you to keep an eye on your pet at all times
- Safe Soft-Sided Dog Cat Carrier: This pet travel carrier is secured with a non-slip zip, so your pet can't escape by unzipping the zip from the inside, which will ensure your pet's safety. cat and dog carrier bag made of 600D Oxford fabric prevents anxious cats or little dogs from claw damage, handy pockets on side for storing treats, toys, and more
- Multiple Size Options: Our portable pet carriers come in four sizes: 24, 30, 36, and 42 inches, accommodating pets weighing 30 lbs, 50 lbs, 70 lbs, and 80 lbs. you can select the appropriate model based on your pet's size and weight
- Portable Dog Cat Travel Carrier Bag: Our cat dog travel carrier bags are TSA airline approved for most major airlines. The Handle design making it easy for you to carry it to any mode of transport, thus ensuring your pet's condition and safety all the way
- Easy to Collapsible & Lightweight: When not in use, the pet carrier can be folded flat, space saving and easy to store, it's easier to carry around. It can also used as a toy of pet house, allowing pets to play in a safe space to relax and rest
Choosing the Best Soft-Sided Dog Crate: Your Complete Buying Guide
Soft-sided dog crates offer a cozy, portable home for your furry friend. They are lighter than metal crates and great for travel or temporary setups. But how do you pick the right one? This guide helps you find the perfect fit.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, check these important features first. They make a big difference in how well the crate works for you and your dog.
1. Ventilation and Visibility
- Mesh Panels: Look for plenty of mesh on all sides. Good mesh lets air flow freely. This keeps your dog cool. It also lets your dog see out.
- Door Options: The best crates have doors on multiple sides (front, side, or top). This gives you flexibility when setting up the crate in tight spaces.
2. Portability and Setup
- Folding Mechanism: A good soft crate folds flat easily. This is crucial for storage or packing it in the car. Some models use a simple collapse system.
- Carrying Handles/Straps: Sturdy handles or shoulder straps make moving the crate simple, especially when your dog is inside (though it’s safer to move them when empty).
3. Security and Durability
- Strong Zippers: Zippers are the weakest point. Choose crates with heavy-duty, self-locking, or double-pull zippers. These stop clever dogs from escaping.
- Frame Support: The frame must be strong enough to hold the shape. Look for internal metal or fiberglass poles that keep the walls upright.
Important Materials Matter
The material determines comfort, cleanliness, and lifespan. Most soft crates use durable fabrics over a lightweight frame.
Outer Fabric
Most crates use polyester or nylon. Heavy-duty denier fabrics (like 600D or higher) resist scratching and tearing better. Waterproof liners help if accidents happen inside.
Internal Comfort
Check the floor material. A removable, washable fleece or faux-sheepskin mat adds comfort. This mat often improves the overall user experience.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all soft crates are made equally. Small details often separate a great crate from a frustrating one.
Quality Boosters:
- Removable Liners: Liners that zip out make cleaning much easier.
- Internal Leash Clips: Some crates include small clips inside to attach to your dog’s harness. This prevents them from pushing the door open.
- Pocket Storage: External pockets hold treats, toys, or paperwork.
Quality Reducers (Watch Outs):
- Flimsy Poles: If the frame poles feel too thin or bend easily, the crate will sag over time. This reduces usable space.
- Weak Stitching: Inspect the seams, especially around the doors and corners. Poor stitching tears quickly under stress.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how you plan to use the crate. This guides your size and feature choices.
Travel Companion:
For car trips or airline travel (check airline rules!), prioritize light weight and a very flat fold. You want minimal hassle when setting up at hotels or visiting family.
Home Sanctuary:
If the crate stays mostly at home, focus more on size and comfort. A larger crate allows your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. It serves as a safe den.
Training Tool:
For crate training, ensure the door latches securely. Dogs learn fast. A crate that feels secure encourages faster positive association.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Soft-Sided Crates
Q: Are soft-sided crates safe for aggressive chewers?
A: Generally, no. Soft crates are not chew-proof. If your dog chews fabric or zippers aggressively, you need a metal crate. Soft crates work best for dogs who are already crate trained and view the space as a safe den.
Q: How do I choose the correct size?
A: Measure your dog standing up. The crate should allow your dog to stand without their head touching the top. They must also be able to turn around easily inside. Always size up if you are between two sizes.
Q: Are these crates easy to clean?
A: Yes, most are easier than metal crates. Look for models with removable, machine-washable floor pads. Wipe down the mesh and exterior fabric with a damp cloth and mild soap.
Q: Can I use a soft crate for house training?
A: Yes, they work well, provided the crate is appropriately sized. Just like with hard crates, the dog usually avoids soiling its sleeping area. Make sure you use one with a waterproof bottom liner.
Q: Do soft crates smell after use?
A: If they are well-ventilated and cleaned regularly, they should not smell. Poor ventilation or leaving accidents unattended can trap odors in the fabric. Ensure good airflow.
Q: Are soft crates better than hard plastic crates for puppies?
A: It depends. Hard plastic crates offer more protection during rough play or if the puppy chews. Soft crates feel cozier, which some puppies prefer. For initial training, many trainers prefer the visibility of a soft crate.
Q: How durable are the zippers?
A: Durability varies widely. High-quality crates use heavy-duty, often metal, zippers that resist being pried open. Cheap zippers use plastic teeth and fail quickly. Always check user reviews specifically about the zippers.
Q: Can I leave my dog unattended in a soft crate?
A: For short periods, yes, if the dog is comfortable. However, never leave a dog unattended for very long periods, especially if they are new to crate training or known escape artists. A determined dog can break through mesh or unzip doors.
Q: Are soft crates okay for car rides?
A: Many are designed for car travel. They secure well using the car’s seatbelts threaded through loops on the crate sides. This secures the crate and keeps your dog safe during stops.
Q: What if my dog tries to dig at the floor?
A: If your dog is a digger, a soft crate might not be the best choice unless you place a hard, flat mat *inside* the crate (on top of the soft floor). Digging can tear the floor fabric.