Does the thought of a long car ride with your furry friend fill you with a mix of excitement and worry? You want your dog to be safe and comfortable, but finding the perfect travel kennel can feel like a puzzle. Many owners struggle with kennels that are too big, too small, or just don’t feel secure enough for the journey ahead. It’s tough to know which features truly matter when you’re trying to keep your companion happy and safe on the road.
Choosing the right dog kennel for car travel is about more than just having a box for your pet. It’s about peace of mind for you and a secure, cozy space for them. If you’re tired of bouncing between confusing product reviews and wondering if you’re making the best choice, you’re in the right place. This guide cuts through the noise. We will break down what makes a great car kennel, from size and ventilation to safety features that keep your dog protected during any trip.
Keep reading to discover our top picks and the essential tips you need to select a travel kennel that fits your car and your dog perfectly. Let’s make your next adventure a smooth and stress-free ride for everyone!
Top Dog Kennel For Car Travel Recommendations
- 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)
- 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
- 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.
- Large Pet Crate: This dog kennel for large dogs has an easy-open latch for opening the dog travel carrier with one hand
- Up To 70 lbs: Suitable for pets up to – 70 lbs | Product dimensions-36 L x 25 W x 27 H inches| Product weight – 19 lbs
- Air Travel: This pet carrier meets most airline cargo specifications | The Air Travel kennel for dogs cats also has ventilation on 3 sides
- Aspen Pet: Aspen Pet provides every day essentials for pet parents, dogs cats Check out Aspen Pets for leash cable tie-outs, litter box accessories, pet toys, gravity water/food bowls, pet beds, dog houses, carriers more
- Just For Pets: Petmate makes a variety of pet products for dogs, cats, chickens other small furry friends Check out our brands such as Aspen Pet, Arm Hammer, Booda, Chuckit, Pet Qwerks more
- TRAVEL DOG CAR SEAT: The mesh windows on our dog carrier for car promote airflow and allows your furry friend to observe their surroundings. While installing, please fasten the safety belt and hang the adjustable strap around headrest, ensuring stability and safety.
- COMFORT FOR DOGS: Our dog car seat enable a roomy area for dogs. Dogs can stretch out their legs in this car seat. Suitable for dogs of all breeds, and allowing them to lay down comfortably during long car rides. Ideal for medium dog up to 25 lbs, or a multi-dog family.
- 5 EASY ACCESS DOORS: Made of high quality and is anti-scratch. Both sides feature a large zippered door and a smaller zippered door, making access a breeze. And the zippered front door is lockable, makes it easy to insert food and water without your pet escaping.
- EASY TO STORE & CLEAN: This pet car seat can fold flat for space-saving storage in your trunk when your pet is not along for the ride. The bottom of the travel pet carrier is lined with a removable, machine washable comfort pad. Please take out the board before wash.
- SUITS FOR BACK SEAT: Our travel pet seat measures 24.4 X 18.9 X 19.5 Inches and holds 25 Pounds. be sure to measure your pet to ensure they will fit inside the enclosure comfortably. Please measure their length from chest to rear, it should be shorter than 24 inches.
- Small 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: 26 x 18 x 18 inches (LxWxH); Water-resistant base
- 【Dimensions】LARGE SIZE pet carrier for medium, large cats or small dogs, HIGHER AND WIDER than other carriers on market, Recommended max load of 20 lbs (9 kg). Measures: 18.1"L x 11.8"W x 11.8”H. Please don't choose the carrier only based on weight but also reference your pet's length and height.
- 【Breathable and Private】GAPZER large cat carrier designed mesh all around to ensure normal circulation of air inside the box and easy for you to check on your pet. These roller blinds can be put down if your pet feels nervous.
- 【Collapsible & Lightweight】The cat carrier can be folded into a pad to save your storage space and is easy to take out. Top and side entry.
- 【Washable Liner】The large cat carrier is made from durable fabric-oxford material, and the faux lambskin liner which offers a cozy space for your pet can be removed entirely and machine-washed.
- 【Multiple-Ways of Use】 Designed for two carrying ways-shoulder straps and handles will be adjusted as you need. Filled the soft cotton into the cat backpack shoulder strap, and increased the width on it, helping to reduce load and relieve fatigue.
- 【SAFE & SECURE CONSTRUCTION】This portable dog kennel is with protected seams and reinforced corners ensure your pet's safety. Made from durable quality & water-resistant materials makes it a great crate for small and medium dogs/cat/rabbit.
- 【THREE DOORS DESIGN】The dog cage features 3 high-density mesh windows for convenient access and be more ventilate.Double Zipper avoids pet’s escaping. Removable pad is comfortable and washable.
- 【DIMENSION】28"Lx18"Wx22"H,would fit 1-2 cats.ATTENTION:JUST fit small dog like Standard Poodle,Schnauzer OR SMALLER PET. 32"Lx21"Wx26"H,would fit Medium Pet like Boxer/Bulldog/Chihuahua/ French Bulldog. Please compare it's size with the kennel you have and choose the right size.
- 【EASY TO FOLD AND UNFOLD】The sturdy and flexible steel wire makes sets up in seconds and requires no assembly, folds flat when not in use for easy carrying and storing. Warping occurs sometimes. Easy to get back to normal.
- 【OCCASIONS】This pop up dog kennel is ideal for indoor and outdoor use. Great as a car crate or travel kennel for camping and day trips.
Choosing the Right Dog Kennel for Car Travel: Your Essential Buying Guide
Taking your furry friend along for a road trip is exciting. A good car kennel keeps your dog safe and secure. It also keeps your car cleaner. This guide helps you pick the best travel kennel.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, look for specific features. These make travel safer and easier.
- Secure Locking Mechanism: The door must lock tightly. You do not want your dog opening it accidentally. Look for strong latches.
- Proper Ventilation: Dogs need fresh air, especially on long drives. Check for plenty of airflow slots or mesh windows on multiple sides.
- Easy Cleaning: Spills happen. Choose kennels with removable, non-porous floors. This makes cleanup fast.
- Size Appropriateness: Your dog must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Too small is unsafe; too big might allow sliding during sudden stops.
Important Materials
The material affects safety, durability, and weight.
Plastic (Heavy-Duty Polypropylene): These are very popular. They offer excellent protection in an accident. They are easy to wipe down. Look for kennels made from thick, sturdy plastic. Thin plastic breaks easily.
Metal (Wire Crates): Wire crates are lightweight and offer superb ventilation. However, they might not protect as well against side impacts. Ensure the wire gauge is thick enough so your dog cannot bend it.
Fabric/Soft-Sided Carriers: These are great for very small dogs or short trips. They are lightweight and often fold flat for storage. A major downside is that they offer minimal protection in a crash. They are also easier for determined chewers to damage.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality matters for safety. Certain design elements boost a kennel’s performance.
Quality Boosters:
- Impact Resistance: Look for kennels that meet airline safety standards. These often have reinforced corners.
- Non-Slip Bottoms: A rubberized base or included mat prevents the kennel from sliding when you brake or turn sharply.
- Hardware Strength: Metal bolts and strong hinges last longer than plastic clips.
Quality Reducers:
- Sharp Edges: Inspect the inside carefully. Any rough plastic edges or exposed metal can injure your pet.
- Flimsy Doors: If the door rattles or feels weak when you push it, its locking mechanism is likely poor.
- Poor Assembly: Kennels that require excessive force to put together often fall apart sooner.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use the kennel most often.
Long Road Trips: For long journeys, comfort is key. You need a spacious crate where your dog can rest for hours. A plastic crate often feels more secure to dogs than an open wire one.
Quick Errands: If you only drive to the vet, a smaller, lighter carrier might suffice. Ease of loading and unloading becomes important here.
Securing the Kennel: How will you keep the kennel from moving in the car? Many quality kennels have built-in slots or loops. You thread your car’s seatbelt through these slots to secure the crate firmly to the seat.
Acclimation: A good user experience starts before the trip. Introduce the kennel at home first. Make it a cozy den with familiar blankets. This reduces travel stress significantly.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Dog Car Travel Kennels
Q: What size kennel does my dog really need?
A: Your dog must be able to stand fully upright without touching the roof. They should also be able to turn around in a complete circle easily. Measure your dog from nose to tail base, and from the floor to the top of their head.
Q: Should I put the kennel on the back seat or the cargo area?
A: The safest spot is usually secured in the back seat, allowing you to buckle it in with a seatbelt. If you use the cargo area (like in an SUV), ensure the kennel is tied down or braced so it cannot slide forward.
Q: Can I leave the kennel door open while driving?
A: No. For safety, the door must always be securely latched when the car is moving. An unrestrained dog can interfere with driving or get badly hurt if you stop suddenly.
Q: Are soft-sided carriers safe in a crash?
A: Generally, no. Soft-sided carriers are best for very small, calm dogs for short trips. Hard-sided plastic or metal crates offer much better protection against impact forces.
Q: How do I stop the kennel from sliding around?
A: Use the built-in seatbelt loops to anchor the kennel to the car seat. You can also place non-slip mats underneath the kennel for extra grip.
Q: What temperature is safe inside a travel kennel?
A: Never leave your dog unattended in a car, even with the kennel. Temperatures rise very quickly inside a vehicle. If you must leave them briefly, ensure the car is cool, and the kennel has maximum shade and airflow.
Q: Do I need a specific kennel for air travel too?
A: Yes. If you plan to fly, you must buy a kennel specifically marked as “Airline Approved.” These have specific door hardware and bolt requirements that regular pet store crates might not meet.
Q: How often should I clean the car kennel?
A: Clean up accidents immediately. For regular maintenance, wipe down the interior and wash any bedding weekly, especially if your dog travels often.
Q: What if my dog chews through the plastic?
A: If your dog chews or scratches aggressively, switch to a heavy-duty metal crate immediately. Plastic chew marks indicate stress or boredom, and ingestion of plastic pieces can cause severe medical issues.
Q: How do I secure a large kennel in a truck bed?
A: You should never transport a dog in an open truck bed. If you must use a truck bed, use a hard-sided kennel secured tightly with heavy-duty ratchet straps over the top and sides, ensuring it cannot fly out or slide off.