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 the reality of tangled leashes, anxious pacing, and potential distractions in the car can quickly turn road trips into a headache. Finding the perfect dog crate for car travel adds another layer of complexity. Should you choose hard plastic, sturdy metal, or a soft-sided carrier? The sheer number of choices can make your head spin!
Choosing the wrong crate can lead to an unhappy pup and even unsafe driving conditions. But don’t worry! This guide is here to cut through the confusion. We will break down what truly matters when selecting a car crate. You will learn exactly what features keep your dog secure and relaxed on any journey, big or small. Get ready to transform your car trips from stressful to smooth sailing.
Top Dog Crates 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)
- Safe Travel Containment: The PetSafe Happy Ride Collapsible Travel Crate installs securely into the backseat with seatbelt straps and a headrest loop to keep your pet safely contained during car rides
- Foldable & Travel Friendly: This lightweight carrier with leather handles folds flat for space-saving easy storage, perfect for road trips and compact cars
- Comfort & Convenience: Soft-sided dog crate with mesh windows, a waterproof fleece pad, dual side doors, and convenient storage pockets offers cozy seating and easy access
- Global Mission, Local Care: With U.S. roots and worldwide reach, PetSafe delivers vet- and trainer-recommended solutions and exceptional customer support to create fields of joy for pets
- 25 Years of Trust: Since 1998, PetSafe has created safe, innovative, and trusted products that bring joy, enhance pet lives, and support the lifelong bond between pets and their families
- SAFE DOG CAR SEAT: Dog and cat carrier provides a fully enclosed, comfortable, and secure location for your cat or dog to ride; it features mesh windows on each side and a full mesh front to allow your pet to view out
- SAFETY FIRST: Soft sided travel carrier buckles securely into your car using your car's seat belt, and for added stability the top strap adjusts tightly around headrest, ensuring the pet seat stays securely in place
- 5 EASY ACCESS DOORS: The left and right sides of the enclosure feature a large zippered door and a smaller zippered door, making access a breeze; and the zippered front door makes it easy to insert food and water without your pet escaping
- WASHABLE: The bottom of the Travel Safety Carrier is lined with a removable, machine washable comfort pad for easy clean up of those occasional pet travel accidents
- FOLDS FLAT FOR EASY STORAGE: Cat and dog carrier folds flat for space-saving storage in your trunk when your pet is not along for the ride
- 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.
- 【Large Capacity & Portable】Portable small dog crate: 24*17*17inch, perfect for large cat, two cats or small dogs(e.g., Malteese, Boston Terrier, Mini Schnauzer, etc.). Hold pets up to 12-30 pounds (More Space, More Freedom, More Love!). The soft dog crate sets up and folds down effortlessly in seconds—no tools needed—making it ideal for storage and travel.
- 【Sturdy & Anti-collision protection】Made with strong & lightweight steel frame, rugged 600D Oxford cloth, and hex mesh fabric. There are anti-collision protection pads on the four corners to protect the pet cage from wearing and tearing, as well as protect home decoration and car interiors.
- 【360°Ventilation & Multi-Door Access】Four-sided mesh panels ensure excellent airflow and a clear view for your pet, while three secure doors allow freedom to enter and exit. Ideal for road trips or vet visits—especially in SUVs or midsize vehicles. Please note: this puppy crate is not designed for compact cars or airline travel.
- 【Comfortable & Thoughtful Add-Ons】The soft collapsible dog crate for travel is equipped with a soft mat for extra comfort, which is removable & washable. What's more, you'll find a cozy blanket and a foldable travel bowl. These extras help keep your pet comfortable and content during adventures near and far.
- 【Secure & User-Friendly Features】 A adjustable leash attached to your pup’s collar and lockable zippers on the door can keep the pet secure inside. The top handle offers easy carrying, and side pockets store toys or treats. Not recommended for persistent chewers or escape-prone pets—mesh and zipper may be damaged by determined scratching or biting.
- Stable and Portable Pet Car Crate:Featuring sturdy, non-collapsible metal frames, it keeps your pet secure and eliminates shaking during drives.When not in use, the brackets can be quickly folded, put into the included storage bag, and easily stowed in the trunk without taking up space. Stress-free travel for both you and your furry friend
- Four-fold Safety Design: This pet travel crate can be secured to rear seat with car seat belt. 2 top adjustable straps attach to front/rear headrests for stability. A pet safety leash is equipped inside the crate to prevent pets from jumping out and escaping—total protection, every mile
- Breathable & Comfortable:The dog car carrier equipped with 4 scratch and bite-resistant breathable mesh panels for excellent ventilation. The extra-large front mesh door rolls up for pets to enjoy a wide view; large access doors on both sides facilitate entry and exit; the top mesh can also be rolled up, allowing pets to stick their heads out and stretch
- Feeding & Comforting Windows: Each side features a small feeding window, allowing for safe feeding without opening the crate during trips. They also let you comfort your pet and ease its anxiety—ideal for car travels or vet visits
- Easy-to-Clean Design: The bottom of this travel safety crate is lined with a removable, comfortable mat that’s machine-washable. Additionally, the internal metal frame is detachable, making it easy to clean the crate’s fabric cover— a hassle-free and practical choice for pet owner
- 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.
- Stable and Portable Pet Car Crate:Featuring sturdy, non-collapsible metal frames, it keeps your pet secure and eliminates shaking during drives.When not in use, the brackets can be quickly folded, put into the included storage bag, and easily stowed in the trunk without taking up space. Stress-free travel for both you and your furry friend
- Four-fold Safety Design: This pet travel crate can be secured to rear seat with car seat belt. 2 top adjustable straps attach to front/rear headrests for stability. A pet safety leash is equipped inside the crate to prevent pets from jumping out and escaping—total protection, every mile
- Breathable & Comfortable:The dog car carrier equipped with 4 scratch and bite-resistant breathable mesh panels for excellent ventilation. The extra-large front mesh door rolls up for pets to enjoy a wide view; large access doors on both sides facilitate entry and exit; the top mesh can also be rolled up, allowing pets to stick their heads out and stretch
- Feeding & Comforting Windows: Each side features a small feeding window, allowing for safe feeding without opening the crate during trips. They also let you comfort your pet and ease its anxiety—ideal for car travels or vet visits
- Easy-to-Clean Design: The bottom of this travel safety crate is lined with a removable, comfortable mat that’s machine-washable. Additionally, the internal metal frame is detachable, making it easy to clean the crate’s fabric cover— a hassle-free and practical choice for pet owner
Choosing the Best Dog Crate for Safe Car Travel
Taking your dog on a road trip is fun. A good car crate keeps your furry friend safe and secure. It also protects your car. This guide helps you pick the right one.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a car crate, look for several important things.
- Secure Locking Mechanism: The door must lock tightly. You do not want your dog accidentally opening it.
- Ventilation: Good airflow is crucial. Look for mesh sides or plenty of holes. This keeps your dog cool and comfortable.
- Size Appropriateness: The crate must fit your dog. Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down easily. Measure your dog first!
- Easy Cleaning: Spills happen. A crate with a removable, washable tray makes cleanup simple.
- Crash-Tested Ratings: For maximum safety, look for crates that have passed crash tests. This offers peace of mind.
Important Materials Matter
The material of the crate affects its safety, weight, and durability.
Metal Crates (Wire or Solid):
These are very strong. Metal crates often offer the best protection in an accident. They usually have great ventilation. However, they can be heavy to move.
Plastic Crates (Polypropylene):
Plastic crates are lighter. They offer good protection from side impacts. Make sure the plastic is thick and durable. Some models are designed to fit snugly into car spaces.
Soft-Sided Carriers:
These are the lightest option. They are great for short trips or when space is limited. Quality soft crates use strong fabric like ballistic nylon. Be aware that they offer less protection in a serious crash compared to hard carriers.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Good design makes a big difference in how well a crate works.
Quality Boosters:
- Sturdy Construction: Look for reinforced corners or heavy-duty zippers (on soft crates).
- Tie-Down Points: Crates with built-in straps or loops let you secure them directly to your car seats or cargo area. This stops the crate from sliding.
- One-Hand Operation Latches: These latches make getting your dog in and out fast and easy, even when you only have one free hand.
Quality Reducers:
- Flimsy Hardware: Cheap plastic latches or thin metal bars can break easily.
- Sharp Edges: Inspect all seams and edges. Rough spots can injure your dog.
- Poor Fit in the Car: If the crate rattles or shifts during braking, the quality of your travel experience goes down.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use the crate most often.
If you travel long distances often, comfort is key. Choose a crate large enough for your dog to be truly comfortable for hours. A crate with a built-in water dispenser can be very helpful on long drives. If you take your dog to the vet frequently, a lighter, easy-to-carry model might be better for you.
Remember, the crate should be introduced to your dog at home first. Make it a positive space with familiar bedding. A happy dog makes for a much smoother car ride!
10 Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Car Crates
Q: What size crate do I need for car travel?
A: You need a crate that lets your dog stand up without hitting its head, turn around easily, and lie down comfortably. Measure your dog from nose to the base of the tail, and from the floor to the top of its head when sitting.
Q: Should the crate be secured in the car?
A: Yes, always secure the crate. Unsecured crates become dangerous projectiles in a sudden stop or accident. Use seatbelts or the crate’s tie-down straps.
Q: Can I put a soft-sided carrier in the front seat?
A: It is generally safer to place carriers in the back seat or cargo area. Airbags deploy with great force and can seriously harm a dog in the front seat.
Q: How do I stop my dog from getting too hot?
A: Ensure the crate has excellent ventilation on at least three sides. Never leave your dog in a parked car, even for a minute. Use light-colored blankets over the crate if the sun shines directly on it.
Q: Are airline-approved crates safe for cars?
A: Airline-approved crates (usually hard plastic) are often very sturdy. They usually meet high safety standards, making them a good choice for car travel too.
Q: What if my dog chews through the crate?
A: If your dog chews, choose a heavy-duty metal crate. Avoid soft carriers or crates with plastic parts your dog can reach easily.
Q: Is it okay for my dog to ride unrestrained in the back?
A: No. Dogs should always be restrained in the car. Unrestrained dogs can distract the driver or be seriously injured if the car stops suddenly.
Q: How do I introduce my dog to the crate for travel?
A: Start slow. Place treats and toys inside while the crate is open. Feed meals inside the crate. Once the dog is happy, close the door for short periods while the car is parked. Gradually introduce short drives.
Q: Which material is best for winter travel?
A: Hard-sided crates are better insulators than wire crates. You can place thick, warm bedding inside a hard crate to keep your dog cozy.
Q: Do I need a crate cover?
A: A cover can help anxious dogs feel secure by making the crate feel like a den. It can also block out scary sights. Make sure the cover does not block necessary airflow.