Does the thought of a road trip with your furry best friend fill you with a mix of excitement and worry? You love having your dog along, but the chaos in the car can be stressful. Loose dogs become distracted drivers, turning a fun adventure into a potential hazard. Finding the perfect car dog crate feels like navigating a maze of sizes, materials, and safety ratings.
Many owners struggle to find a crate that is both secure for travel and comfortable for their pet. You want safety without sacrificing space or dealing with complicated setups. Getting this wrong means constant worry, noisy rattling, or worse—an unsafe situation on the road. This post cuts through the confusion.
Inside, you will learn exactly what features matter most for secure travel. We break down the best crate types for different vehicles and dog sizes. By the end, you will feel confident choosing a durable, safe haven for your dog on every journey. Let’s dive in and make your next car ride peaceful and secure.
Top Car Dog Crates 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
- 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
- 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
- Space-Saving Foldable Design: This collapsible dog crate features a innovative foldable design, allowing it to be stored flat when not in use. Perfect for small apartments or homes with limited space, it ensures easy storage without sacrificing functionality.
- Easy Mobility with Wheels & Handles: Equipped with two smooth-rolling wheels and sturdy handles on both sides, this pet crate offers effortless mobility. Move your dog cage around the house or during travel with minimal effort. Ideal for repositioning in your living room, patio, or vehicle.
- Durable & Escape-Proof Construction: Made from reinforced hard plastic and strong metal wire, this heavy-duty dog crate ensures maximum security. The robust design prevents escapes and provides a safe, den-like environment for your dog. It’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing for modern homes.
- Secure & User-Friendly Lock Mechanism: Features squeeze-latch locks on the door for quick and secure closure. These locks are easy for owners to operate but prevent clever dogs from opening them. Set up and fold down the crate in seconds with no tools required.
- Multi-Scenario Use & Travel Ready: Designed for versatile use—whether as a cozy indoor dog house, a travel crate for road trips, or a temporary containment space outdoors. The medium-size crate fits comfortably in most mid-to-large SUV trunks, making it perfect for adventures and daily use alike.
- 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.
- 【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.
Choosing the Right Car Dog Crate: A Buyer’s Guide
Taking your dog on car rides can be fun. A good car dog crate keeps your furry friend safe. It also keeps your car clean. This guide helps you pick the best crate for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
Several features make a car dog crate great. Think about these when you shop.
Safety and Security
- Sturdy Latches: Strong locks stop your dog from escaping. Look for double-locking mechanisms.
- Crash Tested: Some crates pass safety tests. These offer the best protection in an accident.
- Secure Mounting: The crate must not slide around. Check if it has straps or anchors to secure it to the car seats.
Size and Space
- Right Fit: Your dog must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. A crate too small causes stress. A crate too big can cause sliding during stops.
- Vehicle Fit: Measure the space in your car trunk or back seat. Ensure the crate fits snugly without blocking your view.
Ventilation and Comfort
- Airflow: Good ventilation is crucial. Look for mesh windows or ample openings on several sides.
- Easy Cleaning: Accidents happen. Removable, waterproof liners make cleanup simple.
Important Materials
The material affects durability and weight. Different materials suit different travel styles.
Metal Crates (Wire)
These are very strong. They offer excellent visibility and airflow. Heavy-duty aluminum is often used for lightweight strength. Steel is heavier but very durable.
Plastic Crates (Kennels)
Plastic crates are often easier to clean. They provide a more den-like feel, which some dogs prefer. Make sure the plastic is thick and hard to chew through.
Soft-Sided Crates
These are lightweight and fold flat for storage. They are best for smaller dogs on short trips. They offer less impact protection than hard crates.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality matters for safety and longevity.
Improving Quality
- Thick Gauge Metal: Thicker metal bars resist bending.
- Rust-Proof Coating: A good coating keeps the crate looking new, especially if it gets wet.
- One-Piece Construction: Crates built from fewer pieces often hold up better under stress.
Reducing Quality
- Thin Plastic: Cheap plastic can crack easily if dropped or hit.
- Flimsy Zippers: Soft crates with weak zippers fail quickly.
- Sharp Edges: Always check for sharp points, especially around welds or hinges. These can injure your dog.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you travel changes what crate works best.
Daily Commutes
For short trips, easy access is key. Crates that quickly fold or have simple door mechanisms are useful. Plastic kennels often work well here.
Long Road Trips
Comfort is the priority. Ensure there is space for water bowls attached securely to the crate. Good padding helps dogs rest during long hours.
SUV vs. Sedan
SUVs and hatchbacks usually fit larger, taller crates easily. Sedans might require lower-profile crates that fit under the rear window line.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Car Dog Crates
Q: How do I choose the right size crate for my car?
A: Measure the floor space where the crate will sit. Compare these measurements to the crate’s dimensions. Always leave a little space around the crate for airflow.
Q: Are soft-sided crates safe for car travel?
A: Soft crates offer minimal crash protection compared to hard crates. They are better suited for very calm dogs or short drives where impact is unlikely.
Q: Should the crate face forward or sideways in the car?
A: For maximum safety, the crate should be secured firmly. Facing it toward the rear (rear-facing) often provides the best protection against sudden stops.
Q: How often should I clean my car dog crate?
A: You should wipe down the floor after every trip if possible. Deep clean the crate every two weeks, or immediately after any accidents.
Q: What if my dog tries to chew the crate?
A: If your dog chews, switch to a heavy-duty metal crate, preferably aluminum or steel. Avoid plastic and soft crates.
Q: Do I need to secure the crate even if it fits snugly?
A: Yes, absolutely. Even a snug crate can shift during hard braking. Always use the provided tie-down straps or anchors.
Q: Can I leave my dog in the crate in the car when I run into a store?
A: Never leave your dog unattended in the car for long periods. Temperatures can rise or drop quickly, which is very dangerous.
Q: What is the difference between a kennel and a crate?
A: These terms are often used interchangeably. Generally, a crate refers to a wire or metal enclosure, while a kennel often means a larger, hard plastic enclosure.
Q: How do I introduce my dog to the new car crate?
A: Start by putting treats and toys inside while the door is open. Feed your dog meals in the crate. Slowly increase the time the door is closed while you are present.
Q: Are crash-tested crates worth the extra money?
A: If you travel frequently or have a large dog, yes. Crash testing ensures the crate materials and design hold up during severe impact, offering superior protection.