Does the thought of traveling with your furry friend fill you with a mix of excitement and dread? You want safe, happy road trips, but wrangling a loose dog or dealing with an uncomfortable crate can turn any journey into a headache. Many pet owners face the same challenge: finding a dog crate that fits perfectly in their car, keeps their dog secure, and offers peace of mind. It’s not always easy to balance safety, space, and your dog’s comfort when choosing the right travel setup.
This is where understanding the best car-specific dog crates becomes essential. We know you want the best for your companion, and that means choosing equipment designed for vehicle travel, not just home use. Forget the guesswork! By the end of this post, you will know exactly which features matter most, how to measure your vehicle correctly, and which crates are top-rated for safety and convenience.
Ready to transform your car rides from stressful to smooth? Let’s dive into the ultimate guide for selecting the perfect car dog crate so your next adventure starts the moment you open the door.
Top Car For Dog Crates Recommendations
- 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
- Atlas 100 SUV dog crate is designed specifically for the cargo area of SUVs and hatchback vehicles; ensure you measure the desired area in your SUV prior to making purchase
- SUV dog crate measures 39 length x 23 width x 26 height inches, crate doorway is 13.5W x 18.5H inches; ideal for medium to large dog breeds weighing 40 to 60 pounds
- Great ventilation: Atlas car dog crate features strong metal mesh in both front and back of the dog crate along with vented side panels providing your dog with great air circulation
- Sturdy handles are molded into the top of the dog car crate for easy maneuverability & the dog crate can be totally dismantled for easy portability or storage
- Front door includes a convenient locking system and slides horizontally to open saving valuable space in your vehicle, Atlas SUV dog crate includes a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty
- EXTRA-LARGE & SPACE-SAVING: Features two pop-up switches with pull rings for quick setup and fold-down. Spacious size 27" L x 19" W x 28" H—55% taller than standard crates, allowing medium to large dogs to sit comfortably and relax during trips. Folds flat to just 4.3" H for compact storage. Up to 80lbs.
- EASY 3-STEP INSTALLATION: Step 1: Place fabric cover on frame, aligning all 6 side holes. Step 2: Fold and expand directly on your car seat for easy door entry. Step 3: Secure with the seatbelt & headrest straps for safe, stable travel. Fits cars with rear seat depth >19" W and seat-to-roof height >28" H. Also fits front passenger seats.
- SAFE & STURDY TRAVEL CRATE: Built with a lightweight yet durable metal frame that stays stable on the road. Compact size fits on a single car seat, leaving space for passengers. Built-in safety tether, and self-locking zippers (—work only when lifted straight up) to prevent escapes and keep pets secure.
- 4 ACCESS POINTS & FEEDING WINDOW: Features an extra-large front mesh door that rolls up for wide-open views. Dual side large doors for easy entry and exit, a side feeding window with 2 storage pockets, give treats or interact without opening the crate. Perfect for road trips, vet visits, and outdoor adventures.
- BREATHABLE & COMFORTABLE INTERIOR: Made of chew-proof, breathable mesh for 360° airflow and full visibility, helping reduce travel anxiety. Includes a removable soft cushion with thick PP board support, washable and leak-resistant to protect car seats.
- SIZE & CARE: 36.6"L x 21.2"W x 21.2"H, up to 40 lbs. Care instruction: Hand Wash cold (30℃). Do not Bleach. Do not tumble dry. Do not iron. Do not dryclean.The puppy playpen is composed of high-grade thick mesh and 600 D polyester oxford fabric, and the fabric weight is 180 grams.
- DESIGN FEATURES: Mesh Ventilation on Front and Side Panels. Easy Open/Close Zipper Door. Can accommodate blankets and beds for Optimum Comfort and Personalization. If you have party with your friends or family indoor, or traveling outdoors. This pet bed offers a safe, cozy place for a cat or small dog to snooze.
- FIXED IN THE CAR: Seatbelt straps keep it safely in place within your vehicle when you’re on the go. Good for travel with auto vehicle, Auto Car Truck RV SUV.
- COLLAPSIBLE & PORTABLE: Our pop up kennel folds down small in seconds for easy travel and storage. Take the entertainment with you anywhere, so your pet is never bored! For the convenience of carrying, the product isrelatively lightweight and not as sturdy as metal kennel. For extremely lively pets, it needs tobe used under the care of the owner.
- RISK FREE PURCHASE: We know our pop up pet kennel will not disappoint! We offer a No Questions Asked 100% Refund or Replacement Lifetime. Buy with confidence for all the dog lovers in your life.
- 【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.
- 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
- Soft-sided carrier in Grey with top and front openings; for pets up to 50lb and under 26 x 17 inches (LxH), like a French Bulldog or Miniature Pincher
- Durable polyester and PVC material with sturdy zipper closures for secure containment
- Top handle and shoulder strap for easy carrying; folds flat for compact storage
- Multiple screened panels for ventilation and visibility; machine-washable soft fleece pad for comfort; handy pockets on top and sides for storing treats, toys, and more
- Note: Your dog should be able to stand up and turn around comfortably while in the crate. Measure from nose to base of tail when standing, and from top of head to floor. Add 4 inches to those measurements to confirm optimal crate height and length.
- 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.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Car Dog Crates
Taking your furry friend on car rides should be safe and comfortable for everyone. A good car dog crate keeps your dog secure and protects your vehicle’s interior. This guide helps you choose the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, focus on these important features. They make a big difference in safety and convenience.
- Secure Locking Mechanism: The door must lock tightly. A weak lock lets your dog escape. Look for heavy-duty, easy-to-use latches.
- Proper Ventilation: Dogs need fresh air. Good crates have mesh sides or many vents. This stops your dog from overheating.
- Crash-Tested Rating: Safety is number one. Some crates are tested to withstand car accidents. This offers the best protection.
- Easy Cleaning: Accidents happen! Look for crates with removable, waterproof trays underneath the floor.
- Portability and Storage: If you don’t use the crate all the time, check if it folds down flat. This makes storage much easier.
Important Materials Matter
The material of the crate affects its strength, weight, and price.
Metal Crates (Wire)
These are very strong and offer the best airflow. They are often the top choice for safety. However, they can be heavy and noisy if your dog bumps them hard.
Plastic Crates (Travel Carriers)
These are lightweight and easy to clean. They work well for smaller dogs or short trips. Make sure the plastic is thick and durable, not flimsy.
Soft-Sided Crates
These are the lightest option. They are great for comfort and easy storage. However, they offer the least protection in a crash. They are best for calm dogs on short, slow drives.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all crates are made equal. Pay attention to how they are built.
Quality Boosters:
- Thick Gauge Metal: Thicker metal bars mean the crate will not bend under pressure.
- No Sharp Edges: Quality manufacturing removes any rough spots that could hurt your dog.
- Secure Hardware: Screws and bolts should be strong and resist loosening over time.
Quality Reducers:
- Flimsy Plastic Clips: If the crate uses many small plastic clips to hold panels together, it is weaker.
- Thin Floor Tray: A thin tray bends easily when stepped on, making it hard to clean later.
- Poor Door Fit: If the door rattles or doesn’t line up perfectly, it might open accidentally.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will use the crate most often.
Long Road Trips:
For long drives, comfort is key. Choose a crate large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down fully. Ventilation must be excellent. A plastic or sturdy metal crate works best here.
Daily Errands:
If you only take your dog to the vet or park, a smaller, easily removable crate is fine. Soft-sided crates are convenient for quick trips in and out of the car.
SUV vs. Sedan:
Measure your trunk or back seat area first! Crates designed for SUVs often have sloped backs to fit snugly against the rear seats. Always secure the crate using the car’s seatbelts or cargo tie-downs.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Car Dog Crates
Q: What size crate does my dog need for the car?
A: Your dog needs enough room to stand up without hitting its head, turn around comfortably, and lie down stretched out. Measure your dog, then add a few inches to those measurements for the crate size.
Q: Can I use a regular wire crate in the car?
A: Yes, you can. However, you must secure it tightly so it does not slide or tip over during sudden stops. Many experts suggest crates designed specifically for car travel offer better stability.
Q: Are soft-sided crates safe for highway driving?
A: Soft-sided crates offer the least protection in an accident. They are generally only recommended for very small, calm dogs or short, slow trips where safety restraints are not heavily tested.
Q: How do I stop my dog from chewing the crate bars?
A: If your dog chews metal, look for crates made from thick, powder-coated steel. Also, ensure the crate is appropriately sized; chewing often happens when dogs feel too confined or anxious.
Q: Should the crate face forward or backward in the car?
A: Facing forward or sideways is usually fine, as long as the crate is securely fastened. Some studies suggest facing backward offers slightly better protection during a frontal collision, but securing the crate is the most important step.
Q: Do I need a crate liner or bedding?
A: Yes, a non-slip liner or bedding improves comfort and absorbs small spills. Make sure the bedding is washable and fits snugly so your dog cannot bunch it up and create a tripping hazard.
Q: How do I clean a plastic travel crate?
A: Remove the dog and any bedding. Take out the floor tray if possible. Wipe down all surfaces with pet-safe cleaner and warm water. Rinse well and let it dry completely before putting your dog back in.
Q: What are crate covers used for?
A: Crate covers block outside distractions, which helps anxious dogs relax and sleep during long drives. They also help maintain a comfortable temperature inside the crate.
Q: My SUV has a sloped back window. What crate should I buy?
A: Look for travel crates specifically labeled as “SUV style” or “crash-tested for SUVs.” These crates have tops or backs that angle down to fit securely against the slanted glass.
Q: Is it okay if the crate doesn’t fit perfectly in the trunk?
A: No, a loose fit is dangerous. If the crate slides around, it can shift during braking, which stresses the crate structure and scares your dog. Always use tie-downs or straps to anchor the crate firmly in place.