dog travel kennel for car

The 10 Best Dog Crates & Carriers For Car Travel: Keeping Spot Safe!

Dog Crates & Carriers

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April 16, 2018

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Dogs love the open road as much as we do!

But while most humans remember to buckle up before leaving the driveway, your fur baby doesn’t really have a say in the matter.

Many owners let their dog roam free in the car, which can be a deadly mistake.

Even owners who opt for using a dog carrier or crate designed for car travel will likely be shocked to discover that the vast majority of mainstream car carriers aren’t designed to keep your pooch safe in the event of an accident .

But don’t worry — we’re here to help!

Below, we’ll explain everything you need to know about dog carriers and car travel . We’ll outline the reasons why securing your dog is important, and share some of the best crates and carriers that are made from durable materials and designed to keep your pooch safe and secure in the car.

Best Dog Crates for Car Travel: Quick Picks

• #1 G1 Kennel [Best Overall Dog Crate for Car Travel] : Made with a series of locks and a dual-wall construction, this rock-solid carrier is ideal for pup parents who place safety above all else.
• #2 Sleepypod Atom [Most Affordable Dog Crate for Car Travel] : You don’t have to spend a fortune to help your pet stay safe and travel in style, thanks to this versatile car carrier.
• #3 Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier [Best Soft-Sided Travel Carrier] Crash-tested travel carrier that’s perfect for smaller-sized pets traveling by car, plane, or train.

In some cases, harnesses can be the better option for car-riding canines. We break down some of the situations in which this is the case and list some of our favorites in our guide to crash-tested dog car harnesses.

Safest Dog Crates & Carriers for the Car

Below, we’ll share some of the crates and carriers that passed the CPS 2015 Crates and Carrier Crash Worthiness Study , complimented with additional CPS tests performed in 2016. We’ll be continuing to update this article each year when new crash test reports are released.

We’ve updated our recommendations below to include new products to the market and reflect new tests conducted by CPS.

Unfortunately, CPS hasn’t yet published an overview of their recent testing (which is understandable — they are a non-profit organization), but we’ve linked to the individual product test results and videos when available.

Also, we’ve included a few products below that have passed the safety testing conducted by other organizations, such as the Technical Research Institute of Sweden .

1. Diggs Passenger Carrier

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Diggs Passenger Carrier

A high-quality, tote-style carrier with a 5-star safety rating and an innovative canine-hygiene setup. .

About : The Diggs Passenger Carrier is a must-have for travelers with small canines thanks to its cushy interior pad, three accessory pockets, and top-notch safety marks. Also featuring a detachable crossbody strap, sturdy base, custom seat belt clips, and a buckle strap, it helps you safely (and comfortably) tote your pooch from point A to B in cars, planes, and more.

• Fabric crate made from fuss-free durable nylon and mesh air vents
• Smart setup for easy pee pad changing 
• Available in Charcoal, Grey, Blush, and Navy color options
• Meets most airlines’ specifications for cabin travel

Size & Dimensions :

• Available in one size for dogs up to 18 pounds
• Measures 20” x 10.8” x 11.5”
• 5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for pets up to 18 pounds
• High safety rating from the Center for Pet Safety
• Innovative pee pad setup makes traveling with accident-prone pups a breeze
• Chic styling that’s eons beyond most canine carriers
• More size options would be ideal
• Accessory pockets mean there’s little extra space inside

2. Gunner G1

A tough-as-nails carrier featuring multiple locks, a stainless steel door, and dual-wall construction for impact protection.

About : The American-made Gunner G1 takes safety and quality seriously with its aluminum-framed lockable door (featuring multiple latches), durable plastic shell, and stainless steel hardware. Built-in tiedown pins allow for a snug fit in the car, while a recessed bottom with a drainage system ensures easy cleaning.

• Double-wall construction provides maximum impact protection
• Non-slip rubberized base prevents dangerous sliding
• Water-repelling windows allow air circulation while keeping rain out
• Available in 3 colors: Tan, Gunmetal, and Mossy Oak Greenleaf

Size & Dimensions : The G1 comes in four sizes, and the manufacturer recommends using their Kennel Fit Finder on their product page to determine the best one for your pooch.

• Small (Measures 24.5” x 18.6” x 20.5”)
• Medium (Measures 29.5” x 20.5” x 25”) 
• Intermediate  (Measures 34” x 23” x 30”) 
• Large (Measures 40.25” x 28” x 34.5”)

Safety: 

• Gunner Kennel G1 Small : 5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 30 pounds when used with G1 tiedown straps
• Gunner Kennel G1 Medium : 5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 45 pounds when used with G1 tiedown straps
• Gunner Kennel G1 Intermediate : 5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 75 pounds when used with G1 tiedown straps
• Gunner Kennel G1 Large : Currently unrated
• Quality and durable plastic construction earned high marks from pet parents
• Comes with an impressive lifetime manufacturer’s warranty
• Excellent choice for traveling with a Houndini escape artist
• Not as portable as other options (it’s quite heavy)
• Quality comes at a cost, and these crates are expensive

3. Sleepypod Atom

Sleepypod Atom

A travel-friendly bag that transforms from a crash-rated canine car seat to a stylish messenger tote with ease..

About : The Sleepypod Atom safely cradles your small dog for travel, whether you’re riding in the car, flying high, or buzzing through the subway on official pupper business. Built-in seatbelt straps hold your canine snug in her seat, while the sturdy base and plush interior keeps her cozy (you can even remove it for easy cleanup).

• A well-built fabric crate with luggage-grade nylon exterior 
• 3 mesh panels provide excellent ventilation
• Padded shoulder strap and 3 pockets for toting your pup and her accessories comfortably
• Available in 9 colors, including Robin Egg Blue, Jet Black, and Olive
• Single size option measures 10.5” x 8.5” x 17” 
• Suits dogs up to 12 pounds
• 5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 12 pounds
• Quality and lightweight design earn high marks from owners
• Dual zipper entries allow for top or side access
• Removable privacy panel can help reduce travel anxieties 
• Lack of size options is a bummer
• Only suitable for tiny toy breeds

4. Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed

Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed

A canine carrier that mimics your four-footer’s bed with its soft, fuzzy interior and rounded shape..

About : The Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed doesn’t sacrifice your pet’s comfort in the name of portability, allowing for less-stressful travel in its bed-like, lightweight design. Best suited for dogs who sleep in a curled up position , the round carrier features shearling bedding that can be removed for washing as needed.

• Luggage-grade durable nylon shell stands up to the rigors of travel
• Removable dome-style mesh topper contains pets while allowing airflow
• Adjustable, padded shoulder strap for your comfort
• Available in 5 colors: Arctic White, Dark Chocolate, Olive Green, Robin Egg Blue, and Strawberry Red
• Single size option measures 17” x 17” x 6.5”
• Recommended for pets under 15 pounds
• 5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 15 pounds
• Comfort gets a paw’s up from most doggy travelers
• Pet parents loved the carrier’s quality
• Bed-like design can ease travel anxiety
• Pricey compared to other carriers
• A tad bulky to carry

5. Sleepypod Air

Sleepypod Air

A favorite for woofs with wanderlust featuring a 4-star crash rating and an airline-friendly shape..

About : The Sle epypod Air is a fabric crate that’s made for safe, comfortable canine travel with two zippered entries, a sturdy base, and a low-profile design. The soft, machine-washable bedding inside keeps your canine cozy, while the breathable mesh dome and durable nylon shell exterior protect her from harm.

• Luggage-grade super-durable nylon outer shell
• Removable padded strap and dual storage pockets
• Water-repelling interior liner
• Offered in 8 eye-pleasing colors, including Orange Dream, Charcoal, and Glacier Silver
• Single size option suitable for pets up to 18 pounds
• Measures 17” x 17” x 13”
• 4-Star Rating by the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 18 pounds
• Works great for traveling in cars and planes
• Pet parents raved about the quality
• Owners report doggos love this carrier and even sleep in it at home
• Storage pockets can bulge into canine space 
• Not as fashion-forward as other carriers

6. Sleepypod Mini

Sleepypod Mini

A luggage-grade, dome-style travel crate that earned a 5-star crash rating for dogs under 7 pounds..

About : The Sleepypod Mini protects your most petite precious cargo from harm, securing to your car’s seat belt with the PPRS Handilock. Made to mimic your best buddy’s bed, this fabric crate features a rounded shape and a removable plush interior for cozier travel and a water-resistant foam liner in case of accidents.

• Made with a supremely durable nylon shell with mesh windows for ventilation
• Built-in safety tether prevents bolting when opening
• Available in 8 colors, including Blossom Pink, Dark Chocolate, and Jet Black
• Two zippered entries for versatile use
• Single size option best for dogs 7 pounds and under
• Measures 13” x 13” x 5”
• 5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 7 pounds
• It earned top-notch safety accolades for toy breed dogs
• Rounded design mimics your pup’s bed
• It’s quite durable despite featuring a lightweight design
• Only fits the tiniest of dogs (it’s not even ideal for leggier toy breeds)
• Can feel a bit clunky to carry

7. Away Pet Carrier

Away Pet Carrier

Forget the frump with this fashionable nylon bag featuring slip pockets and dual tote-style handles..

About :  Away’s Pet Carrier doesn’t look like your run-of-the-mill dog bag with its tailored design. It performs as great as it looks, boasting a 5-star crash rating and a collar clip for added safety.

• Constructed of nylon with a water-resistant liner
• Interior sherpa bedding is removable and washable
• Custom embroidery option for an additional fee
• Available in 2 colors: Black and Coast (a medium blue hue)
• Single size option measures 18.7”x 10.8” x 10.7” 
• Suitable for dogs up to 18 pounds
• 5-star Rating for dogs up to 18 pounds by the Center for Pet Safety
• Design gets a thumb’s up from fashionista fur parents
• Sturdy construction holds its shape
• Comes with a 100-day satisfaction guarantee
• One of the pricier carriers available
• Only available in one size

8. Lucky Duck Kennel

Lucky Duck Kennel

A locking, hard-sided crate that’s earned a 5-star rating and is available in sizes suitable for dogs up to 110 pounds..

About : The Lucky Duck Kennel allows for safe car travels with big dogs as it is one of the few large-breed carriers crash-rated by the Center for Pet Safety. The rubberized bottom prevents slippage, as do the built-in tiedown points, which are designed for use with Lucky’s ratchet strap kit for maximum protection.

• One-piece rotomolded durable plastic shell design in Gunmetal (Gray)
• Ventilation slots for airflow
• Pitched floor features a recessed channel to capture liquids away from canines and drain holes for easy cleanup
• Reversible door with locking pins for added security
• Lucky Duck Kennel Intermediate (Measures 32.5” x 22.5” x 24.5”) 
• Lucky Duck Kennel Large (Measures 38” x 24” x 29”)
• Lucky Duck Kennel Intermediate : 5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 75 pounds when used with Lucky strength-rated anchor straps
• Lucky Duck Kennel Large : 5-Star Rating from the Center for Pet Safety for dogs up to 110 pounds when used with Lucky strength-rated anchor straps
• Largest travel kennel that’s earned 5 stars from the Center for Pet Safety
• Secure enough to handle anxious travelers and escape artists
• Comes with a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty against defects
• Height can be an issue for taller canines
• On the pricier side

9. MIM Variocage Single

MIM Variocage Single

A stainless steel kennel crash-rated for various accident scenarios, including front, rear, and rollover collisions..

About : The MIM Variocage Single offers supreme safety, as it’s manufactured by a company specializing in automotive safety products. Featuring a built-in crumple zone for shock absorption and a rear emergency escape hatch, this super durable option is made to protect your pooch in multiple situations.

• Made with a powder-coated steel frame in a charcoal finish
• Locking door with key for additional security
• Barred design allows for maximum airflow and visibility
• Mounting tabs for tiedown straps

Size & Dimensions : The manufacturer strongly advises consulting their measuring guide and speaking with customer support to ensure a proper fit. Each kennel size features an adjustable length for a customized fit for your dog and vehicle. 

• Extra Small (Measures 28.7” to 38.9” x 21.8” x 23.2”)
• Large (Measures 29.9” to 40.5” x 21.8” x 25.5”)
• Large + (Measures 31.8” to 40.5” x 27.5” x 27.1”)
• Extra Large (Measures 31.8” to 40.5” x 27.5” x 28.1”)
• XXL+ (Measures 32.2” to 41.7” x 27.5” x 30.7”)
• Max (Measures 36.2” to 45.6” x 27.5” x 33.2”)

Safety Reports:

• All models pass Sweden’s Safe Pet Crate Test that covers front, rear, and rollover accidents
• While the crate meets Sweden’s standards, the cargo connection points failed a 2015 Center for Pet Safety’s test in the U.S.
• Crash-certified for multiple accident scenarios 
• MIM offers a free kennel replacement in the event of an accident
• Adjustable length is highly convenient
• The rear escape hatch is an uncommon feature
• Design allows curious paws (and possibly teeth) to slip out during travel
• No U.S. crash certifications
• One of the priciest canine carriers 

10. Ruff Land Kennel

Ruff Land Kennel

A rugged canine carrier whose angled back was designed with suv and crossover cargo areas in mind..

About : The Ruff Land Kennel allows for a snug vehicle fit with its special line of SUV-friendly designs featuring an angled back to accommodate your vehicle’s cargo area. Its rust-proof composite door opens both ways, while built-in handles make for easy hauling.

• A durable option made from rotomolded polyethylene plastic 
• Lightweight, stackable design allows for versatile use beyond the car
• Includes top and bottom ventilation holes
• Available in 3 colors: Whitestone, Rockstone, and Millstone

Size & Dimensions : Consult the manufacturer’s sizing guide to select the best fit for your dog.

• Intermediate SUV (Measures 20″ x 31″ x 23″)
• Large SUV ( Measures 21″ x 33.5″ x 27″)
• Previously tested under the Ruff Tuff brand label with the Center for Pet Safety
• First test using a 75-pound dummy failed due to tie-down bracket failures
• Second test using a 75-pound dummy with new tiedown straps yielded no such failure, though the test dummy did impact the door 
• Made specifically with SUVs in mind, ensuring a good fit
• More affordable than most large-breed travel crates
• Comes with a 1-year comprehensive warranty
• No current test star ratings
• Ventilation holes are on the smaller side

Why Dogs Need to Be Secured in the Car

Whether you opt to use a dog car crate, or some other kind of canine car restraint, your dog  needs to be secure while you’re driving.

Many owners opt to let their dog have free reign in the car, but this can be very dangerous for both owners and pets. For one, in the event of an accident, your dog will become an instant projectile, flying through the windshield and injuring you, other passengers, and himself.

Unrestrained dogs are also a common cause of distracted driving.  Author Stephen King famously got into a horrific, nearly-fatal car accident when the other driver took his eyes off the road to correct his misbehaving dog.

Having an unrestrained dog in your car often results in distracted driving — using a restraint will keep both you and your dog safer.

This infographic from CarRentals.com shows how dogs often cause distracted driving!

Even though it’s fun to have your pup by your side as a copilot, the distraction of your dog can be deadly for you both. It’s just not worth the risk!

The Search For A Safe Dog Car Crate

There are a number of things you’ll want to look for (as well as things you’ll want to avoid) when picking a safe dog car crate.

Starting with the things you DO want in a car crate, be sure to look for a crate that is:

Of Sufficient and Suitable Size. Pay attention to the size of your dog, compared to the size of the crate or carrier. A dog car crate should never be 6 inches longer than your dog. This is because the snugness is actually part of what is keeping your dog safe — providing too much excess space means increased momentum and force on impact, resulting in a more dangerous crash for your dog.

Built with High-Quality Connection Points. If your crate’s connectors aren’t strong and up to snuff, the crate will go flying in an accident. And that kind of defeats the whole points of having a sturdy dog car crate! In many dog crash tests, connector safety straps were a key point of failure.

On the flip side, you’ll want to avoid car carriers and crates featuring the following characteristics:

Wire Construction. Wire dog crates can be quite useful in many scenarios, but the car is not one of them. Wire crates just won’t do a ton to protect your fur baby in a car accident. While they are suitable for stopping your dog from distracting you while driving, a wire crate may collapse upon impact.

Soft-Sided Crates. Soft-sided carriers and soft crates  are fine enclosures for general use (especially if they’re made from something like durable nylon), and they work great as airline approved in-cabin carriers . However, a fabric crate will do little-to-nothing when it comes to protecting your pooch in a car accident. Since the carriers are soft, most will immediately collapse on impact.

Plastic. The majority of plastic crates have been reported to fracture and break upon impact, leaving your dog unsecure. Most traditional plastic crates simply aren’t sturdy enough to be crash-proof. Nevertheless, a few crash-tested crates are made from very durable plastic, so just be sure to dig in and do your homework before making a choice.

So what does that leave? Well…not much. The dog crates and carriers that have been deemed crash safe are few and far between. However, there are a few that are will work, and we’ll share them below.

The terms “dog crate” and “dog carrier” are often used interchangeably. In fact, we do so all the time.

However, some manufacturers and safety organizations — including the Center for Pet Safety (CPS) — make a pretty clear distinction between the two.

In these cases, the term “crates” is reserved for relatively large containment devices, which are typically meant to be placed in the cargo area of a truck, van, or SUV. By contrast, “carriers” are usually for smaller pets, and they’re designed to ride in the back seat.

CPS Study Reveals That the Majority of Dog Crates Aren’t Safe

The CPS (Center for Pet Safety) is a non-profit research and advocacy organization that conducts crash tests for various dog safety products. The organization was established in 2011 after realizing the disturbing fact that there are no performance standards or test protocols for testing pet safety devices.

Key Lesson: Don’t Believe The Marketing

The truth is that  manufacturers of canine car crates and carriers aren’t even required to test their products . Many crates and carriers that market themselves as “crash tested” and safe fail to provide substantial protection in the event of an accident.

Most crates or harnesses that claim to be “crash tested” were only evaluated, at the manufacturer’s discretion, for one size . This means that a crate might pass for a very small dog, but lacks the stability and security for a medium or large sized dog.

It is quite shocking that dog car crates and carriers aren’t held to the same rigorous government safety standards that child car seats and other vehicle safety devices are — especially considering that a compromised crate can injure both pets and humans.  Car crates with connector safety straps that fail under stress means that your dog crate could go flying, hurting any passengers in the way (as well as your canine).

CPS Crash Worthiness Study & Testing Plan

After realizing the horrifying gaps in dog car crate and carrier testing, the CPS organization began conducting rigorous testing through the use of specially designed fake crash test dogs.

The CPS teamed up with Subaru to do an  objective study in an independent, third-party testing facility in Virginia . A startling number of car crates and dog car carriers failed, but thankfully, a few performed well and are now being recognized as the life-saving devices that they are!

This video explains a bit about the testing and highlights the three winners. We go into more detail about the winning crates below, but this video offers a nice quick overview:

How The CPS Testing Works

In the CPS (Center for Pet Safety) Crash Worthiness Study , two tests were performed.

One was completed with a crate placed in the back cargo area of a vehicle, with the back seats folded downwards , and the crate being secured through connector straps. The vast majority of crates failed in this scenario.

In the second test, dog car crates were again placed in the cargo area,  this time with one side of the crate resting against the back side section of the back seats (which were kept in the upright position, rather than folded down flat). This allowed the crates to have additional support through the seatback, and many more crates were able to pass this test.

However, the problem is that if the crate relies on the car’s seatback for support, there is an increased risk of a seatback failure in the event of a front impact if the dog and crate have a combined weight that exceeds 40 pounds.

This wouldn’t just put your dog at risk, but your passengers too . So, in many cases, using the seatback support for your dog’s crate is not safe or recommended.

Let’s take a look at the top winners for the most secure and safe dog car carriers and crates!

Give Careful Consideration to Where the Crate Goes

Many owners place their dog’s car crate or pet kennel in the back of the car — the traditional cargo area. But unfortunately, this isn’t always a safe area for your pooch to be .

In many cars, the front and back sections are designed to be “crumple zones” when involved in accidents. The idea is that, by allowing certain sections of the car to crumple on impact, passengers in the interior of the car may remain safe.

This can be life-saving technology — so long as your loved ones aren’t stuck in one of those crumple zones.

Crumple zones can vary, especially when it comes to larger cars and SUVs that use more of the back car space for seating (making those areas unsafe to be designed as crumple zones, therefore making them safe areas to keep your dog).

Back crumple zones may not be a threat with all cars, but we recommend consulting with your car dealership to determine what the crumple zones of your car are . And then, make sure to place your dog’s pet kennel away from that dangerous crumple zone.

Placing your dog in the front seat isn’t a viable option either, as that exposes your dog to front passenger airbags, which are designed to save a human’s life — not your dog’s. Similar to how you shouldn’t place a child in the passenger seat, due to their size in relation to the airbag trajectory, dogs also can’t safely be placed in the passenger seat.

Usually, the back seat is the best place to install your dog’s car travel crate.

This is also the position where your dog will likely be the most comfortable. One study revealed that dogs exhibit less stress in the car when they are positioned closer to their humans, and can visually see them from where they are positioned. This can be key in helping reduce a dog’s anxiety in the car .

For Larger Dogs, Security Is Even More Important

While dog car safety is important for all canines, special care needs to be given to big dogs. Simply put, big dogs need a super durable crate.

Large dogs are even more of a dangerous projectile than small dogs, as a 70-pound canine body hurtling through your car at 70 miles per hour is going to be a whole lot more dangerous than a 10-pound dog .

However, even a small dog can exert a tremendous amount of force at high speeds.

On top of that, larger dogs will experience more force on impact. Unfortunately, this collision force is so strong that very few dog crates can hold up — the list of car-safe dog crates for big dogs is a very short one.

Additional Things to Seek in a Car Carrier for Dogs

Aside from the characteristics we’ve already discussed, you should also look for a few other things in any car carrier — whether it is crash-tested car crate or not.

• Soft material on the inside : In addition to keeping your fur baby safe, you’ll want to look for a carrier that’s also comfy!
• Keep the crate’s weight in mind : Generally speaking, you’ll want to look for the lightest crate you can find that still provides the safety and security your doggo deserves.
• A water-resistant base : Even the best-trained pooches can have the occasional accident, so always try to stick to carriers with a water-resistant base.
• Portability : Because of the very nature of car crates, you’ll want to ensure you select one that is as easy as possible to move around. That doesn’t necessarily mean you need to pick a collapsible dog crate, but it should be one you can move around easily.

How Do I Measure My Dog For a Car Carrier?

Whether you use a soft- or hard-sided crate, you must keep your canine’s comfort in mind and make sure your fur baby gets the right size crate. Essentially, this means that you need a car carrier that is large enough that your doggo can stand up in it and lie down comfortably.

Measure from your dog’s neck (aka where the collar sits) to the base of the tail. Then, add a few inches. That’s the length you want to shoot for.

For height, measure from the top of your dog’s shoulders to the ground. If you’re buying a soft-sided crate or soft-sided carrier (or any kind of soft crate in general), you should add 2 to 3 inches to the height measurement. For hard carriers, add 3 to 5 inches.

Also, make sure to keep weight recommendations in mind when trying to pick the perfect size crate for your fur baby — pet owners with dogs falling between two sizes should probably opt for the larger size!

Distraction Prevention Vs Crash-Proof Power

It’s worth noting that while the majority of budget-friendly and popular consumer crates and carriers failed the safety test, most of these failed crash products do help substantially at least when it comes to distraction prevention.

Having your dog secured in the back seat, away from the driver, means a safer driving experience and, as a result, puts the entire car at lower risk for an accident.

So while the vast majority of crates will not protect your dog in an accident, even a poorly cash-tested device will likely be better than none at all. This holds true for many dog booster car seats and dog seat belts as well — most provide virtually no protection in an accident, but they will keep your pup from pestering you while you drive.

Still, we want to prevent distractions  and keep our dogs safe, so we’d certainly suggest opting for a dog car crate or carrier that is capable of doing both!

What to Do If You and Your Dog Are in a Car Accident

Unfortunately, no matter how safe we try to be, accidents happen. 

If you and your pup are in a car accident, your utmost priority is safety, so now more than ever, keep a level head and assess the situation.

Follow basic safety steps to ensure you and your four-footer’s well-being:

• Pull into a safe area, if you can. If you’re involved in a minor fender-bender on a busy roadway, it’s best for all parties to move to the shoulder, if possible, to avoid another collision (some states even have “If you can steer it; clear it” laws in place). It’s all too common for a two-vehicle crash to worsen.
• Assess the vehicle’s safety. Are there any fluids or smoke being released into or out of the vehicle? Can you smell gas or chemicals? Are there downed live wires outside? The answers to these questions greatly affect your next actions. Downed wires outside of the car mean staying inside, while smoke, gas, or chemical leaks require you to grab your pooch and get out of the car pronto .
• Check yourself. Glance over yourself for signs of injury. We know your first instinct is to check on your pooch, but if you hurt yourself further, you won’t be able to help your fur baby. Adrenaline can make it hard to pinpoint any pain, but a quick once-over can usually spot any bleeding or serious injury that you need to address.
• Check your pet. In most cases, pet carriers protect your dog from serious harm but you’ll still need to check her for injuries when it’s safe to do so. Keep the car door closed behind you if possible, as a frightened pup is prone to bolting after an accident. Look for signs of obvious pain like a stiff posture, whimpering, or limping. You also want to check for blood or a misaligned limb. Dogs who aren’t properly secured in a carrier or with a harness are more susceptible to severe injury.
• Use caution. A dog in pain may act aggressively, so don’t feel offended if your best friend is snappy or fearful of you. Your feelings need to take a backseat, but your safety shouldn’t so use caution when handling an injured dog.
• Render emergency aid . If your dog is bleeding, apply pressure with a clean towel or clothing item. If she isn’t responsive and appears not to be breathing, proceed with dog CPR .
• Secure your pet. Make sure your dog is properly leashed before exiting the vehicle. This is critical, as even dogs with the best recall may run away after an accident. 
• Call the police. Report the accident to proper authorities as soon as you’re sure you and your dog are OK and secured. If you or your dog are injured, relay this information as well. This ensures the proper help arrives informed of the situation.
• Seek veterinary care. Bleeding, fractures, or signs of pain require emergency treatment by a vet. If you need care and can’t go with your dog, emergency professionals will likely be able to transport your canine to receive treatment. We’d also recommend getting your doggy copilot checked over by your vet from head to tail even after a minor accident.
• Contact your insurance company. Pet injuries suffered during a car accident are covered by some insurance companies. It’s worth giving your insurer a call to check on your status. This is a good feature for all pet owners to look for while insurance shopping.

Automobile accidents are traumatic for both humans and dogs. What once was a safe space suddenly isn’t, so you both may have residual anxieties about riding in the car. A good way to overcome this is by having driveway hangouts, where you reintroduce sitting in the car in a fun, stress-free way. Bring treats and offer praise as you relax in the backseat. Over time, you can work up to turning on the car and driving around the block, making the car fun again.

If you haven’t already, it’s also a good time to introduce a travel dog crate to ensure your pupper’s safety for future car adventures.

Do you use a crate or carrier in the car with your fur baby? Are you surprised to hear about the CPS’s study and the lackluster safety of most car crates? Have you found a supremely durable option with a sturdy base that’s made from high-quality materials yet not listed above? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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Very comprehensive, thank you! I’m considering the Ruffland kennel but there are 2 versions of tie down attachments available. https://rufflandkennels.com/product/tie-down-bracket-kit/?attribute_pa_size=medium-intermediate-large

One is a D ring style and the other one is a bracket. Is one of these the one that passed the test? I looked at the videos at CPS but it was not clear. Thank you!

Hey, Tanya. I *think* it is the bracket, but I’m not 100% sure. I’ve dropped them a line and will follow up here, but you should probably just give them a call before ordering to make sure. 🙂

I have contacted Ruff Land and although they market SUV specific kennels, including the ‘Backseat Rider’, there is actually no way to safely secure the backseat rider in the backseat. I contacted them about that and they couldn’t answer it, instead pointing me to their flat bed truck tie down video, but that method doesn’t work in backseats. On the question of brackets, they are bought separately and are attached by the customer through what seems like a flimsy hole in the plastic crate using a socket wrench. This seems like a significant weak point. The D rings in particular seem very flimsy. But regardless, all of the CPS crash test videos show failure, and until the failure points are addressed and they are certified, there are much safer options out there. Both Lucky Duck and Gunner can be secured in the back seat. They both have metal rods integrated into the kennel under which you pass the ratchet straps and wrap around the bottom of the kennel.

I have a 15 month Female Doberman and doing obedience training so on the road weekly. I have an SUV so looking for a safe kennel made in USA can you recommend one that has a hard exterior?

Hey there, Marie. The Gunner Kennel has a hard exterior and may be large enough for your Dobie. But you may want to check out our article about crates for truck beds — there are some larger kennels with hard exteriors there. Best of luck!

I’m a little confused, in the article you say: things to avoid “Soft-sided carriers and crates are fine enclosures for general use, and they work great as airline approved in-cabin carriers. However, they will do little-to-nothing when it comes to protecting your pooch in a car accident. Since the carriers are soft, most will immediately collapse on impact.” …then you go on to recommend 2 soft sided carriers?

Hey, Kathryn. This is one of those cases in which the language is just tricky. We discuss it in the product sections, but essentially, some of these carriers are pretty “soft,” yet they incorporate materials and design features that allow them to pass crash tests. We’re really trying to discourage owners from using a run-of-the-mill, general use soft-sided carrier — not the listed products, which are “soft,” but pretty darn safe for car travel. Thanks for checking out the article!

FYI, the G7 Commuter carrier lost its rating from the CPS on 31 Dec 2019. https://www.centerforpetsafety.org/cps-certified/

Thanks for bringing this to our attention, Nick! I’ll update the article to reflect the change.

Posting this warning for other dog owners looking to purchase a crate for their car. TransK9 crates have an unsafe flaw in the design. We bought this TransK9 crate for the back of our car because we believed it was safe, would protect our dogs from accidents, and we would all feel more secure. However, we experienced an incident where our dog got her snout stuck in the grate of the door so severely that she chipped two of her teeth and damaged the top of her nose (bloody and severely bruised). We had to use small bolt cutters to cut her out of the door. Luckily she didn’t break her nose, but we’re still watching her teeth closely, and she will need dental work.

We contacted the company, TransK9, for support, however what we received was lectures about anxious dogs and the importance of reading terms and conditions. They did offer to replace the doors with ones that have smaller openings, however a few days later they rescinded this offer and instead leaned on their terms and conditions as an excuse. They did offer to send us replacement doors identical to the ones Cooper got her snout stuck in.

No one wants to see their dog in pain.

Hey, Kathy. First of all, we’re so sorry to hear about Cooper’s ordeal! We hope she recovers fully and would like you to give her some scritches from us! We also appreciate you sharing your experience with the ThansK9 Crate. We’ll keep our eyes and ears open to see if this is a common problem, or just a one-off thing.

What criteria are you using to determine that all other crates for large dogs failed in the CPS testing? I watched it, and the Vario performed as it was suppose to, as per manufacturer recommendations. Looking to outfit our new van and curious.

None of the prices actually reflect the actual price. I know this article is older but it links to the amazon page. Anyway, any price for the pooches.

Hey, Jen. It is an older article, but we try to go in an update our titles periodically. They should all reflect accurate prices now, except for the Sleepypod Carriers. For some reason, that one is being difficult. Rest assured, we’re on the case, trying to get it fixed.

Thanks for pointing out the error!

Thank you for the great article! I have two 20-25 pound dogs, is it recommended to get them each their own safe padded crate or a large one to put them both in? Or would separate harness seat belts be better? Or separate booster seats? I was in a pretty bad wreck a month ago and I just keep thinking how awful it would’ve been if my pups had been with me 🙁 hopefully I can find the best and safest solution for them!

I’m so glad I found this before going on my three-week road trip with my dog.

What about Impact Crates? I am not sure ion CPS has testes these crates, but a lot of people claim they saved their dogs in auto accidents.

I’ve heard good things about Impact, they are definitely very secure crates, but they either haven’t been tested by CPS or haven’t passed the CPS crash test so we aren’t including them as a suggested option for car travel.

How do I determine the size of the carrier for my dog? Should my dog be able to stand up in the carrier? Should my dog be able to turn around in the carrier? My dog is 15 lbs, height is 13” (from the base of neck above the shoulders to ground), and 15” long (measured from butt to shoulder).

Great question! We just added a new bit of info to the article based on your question. Yes, your dog should be able to stand and turn around. Sounds like you have the right measurements you need. Just add a few extra inches for length and a few more for height (2-3 inches for soft carriers, 3-5 for hard carriers).

Thank you for the helpful information. Unfortunately, all the soft sides are too short, and the Gunner small kennel is 4.5 inches too long. I think Gunner would be my best bet, but I wish the other companies would make taller models.

There are a few other companies (Variocage, TransK9, Lintran) – I will do more research on those but so far I would go with TransK9. An important safety feature not mentioned here is a rear escape hatch door. What would happen if after an accident, the cargo door won’t open due to the damage, or the kennel door won’t open and I need to get the dog out? Worse, what if the car is on fire and I *really* need to get the dog out very quickly? TransK9 has an escape hatch in the back facing the front of the car, that folds down. Unfortunately, it seems that TransK9 was only tested independently. And It’s just as pricy as Variocage.

Good point – I can see why multiple doors might be important in the event of a crash.

The Variocage has an escape hatch at the opposite end from the normal entry and exit doors (in the back facing the front of the car), to be used in case of emergency – just like the transk9 does.

FYI, Gunner makes a medium dog crate for dogs up to 45 lbs. the price is $429.99, which is WAY too much for me. But, for those who can afford it, it’s out there. They have 4 sizes to accommodate all size dogs. They are ALL, very expensive, though. I wish I COULD afford it. My dog, like all dogs, deserves the best!

You recommend a carrier for SMALL dogs, several, in fact. And you recommend a carrier for LARGE dogs. But, there are NO recommendations for MEDIUM dogs! My dog is 35 lbs. He’s too big for the small and too small for the large! So what about all the MEDIUM dogs out here. We love our MEDIUM dogs, and want to,protect them, too!

Hey Marie – we only recommend these crates because they are the only crash proof crates on the market at this time.

Thank you so very much for this article! I have 2 XL dogs (125 lbs each) Kangal/Great Pyrenees and am buying a new car that can accommodate 2 crates. I hope the Gunner Kennel will be able to safely transport them!! For a car I am looking at the GMC Yukon (or Yukon XL) hoping it will accommodate not one but two crates. I thank you so much for this article!!!

You’re welcome Nina! I wish there were more crash-test-approved dog crates, but unfortunately, these are the only options for now, especially for big pooches! Let us know how you do with the Gunner kennel.

Great! just ordered a Gen7commuter. Thanks for the suggestions!

Didn’t know about these crates. Thanks for sharing this information.

Been reading a lot about Variocage as being tested and safe system …. Any further information? Not cheap, but certainly cheaper than vet bills would be.

The Variocage test results are included in the 2015 Crate Study posted on the Center for Pet Safety website.

Hi Kim – Variocage did not pass the 2015 CPS crash test. You can find out more details about how the Variocage failed the crash test here” (they have videos too).

I checked out the videos on the CPS site, and it seemed that the Variocage’s only downside was that the straps broke. The crate was pushed in to half its size because, as is mentioned on the CPS site, it is designed to do that (a built-in crumple zone). Tight quarters for the dog after that but the crate itself looked intact to me.

I noticed that too Dagmar – there’s definitely a chance that means the Variocage could be a suitable option, but I’m hesitant to suggest it if it wasn’t passed by the CPS, especially when there are other options that do pass. Maybe next time we refresh this article I’ll spend time looking more into Variocage.

Hi, I have a question. I have 2 chihuahuas . 1 is 8.5 pounds and the other is 7 pounds. They always travel together in a plastic crate. However I want to purchase a sleepy pod for safer travels. Can they be in the same crate? Is that safe ? Thanks!

I have a service dog (lab 75 lbs) that I wanted to keep in a crate in the cargo area of an SUV like a CRV or RAV4 because I thought it was safer. After your article, I am having second thoughts. Since she is a working dog, safety is a big concern because even a small injury could put her out of work. Have you done research on safest SUVs for dogs or best way to secure a dog in the passenger area? Debbie

You may want to look at Volvos. I am not sure about the newer models, but I used to have the 240 wagon, and those had a safety cage that extended to include the cargo area, because a pop-up seat in the trunk of the cargo area was an option and therefore, there was a chance of passengers riding in the cargo area, and it could not be a crumple zone. I miss my 240 wagon for that very reason.

please get to the large dog car harnesses! most of us cant buy a $600 cage. thank you

Don’t worry Katy – our article about car safe dog harnesses will be published in the next week or the following- promise!

We have a golden puppy and want to transport her safely. I’m bummed there is nothing but the pod for small dogs and then the $600.00 gunner kennel for large dogs.

I know Tammy – it really sinks! Luckily there are some really high-quality harnesses that work well for serious car protection. We’ll be reviewing those soon.

Shocking. As a dog owner it makes me angry that there is not more 3rd party testing.

Also Worth Your Time

5 Best Rescue Harnesses for Dogs

11 Best Dog Bike Baskets: Safe Bicycle Riding With Dogs

Best Dog Crates for Truck Beds: Keep Your Buddy Safe in the Back!

Waggle RV & Car Temperature Monitor for Pets: Our Hands-On Review

12 Best Dog Car Barriers: Keeping Pups in the Back Seat!

How to Road Trip with a Dog: Tips for Safety & Success!

How to Keep Your Dog Cool in the Car During the Summer!

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9 Best Dog Crates for Car Travel (Crash-Tested in 2024)

February 22, 2024

Everyone knows how to pick regular crates. But who knows how to choose a dependable dog crate for car travel?

I wanted to do the honors when I realized how few people have covered this topic. That was the primary catalyst of this final product – a handpicked AND ranked list of amazing dog crates.

This list has EVERYTHING you need to know when traveling with a dog in a car.

Table of Contents

Why Trust Me?

1. gunner g1, 2. dakota 283, 3. gen7pets commuter pet carrier, 4. ruff land kennels, 5. petmate sky kennel, 6. mim variocage, 7. diggs passenger travel carrier, 8. k&h carrier for pets, 9. aspen pet dog kennel, dimensional compatibility, build quality and material , ease of cleaning, ventilation, secure latching/locking mechanism, additional safety features, why use dog crates while traveling by car, benefits of investing in dog crates for car travel, rear bench seat, middle seat , front passenger seat, 4 most important tips for traveling with a dog in a crate, center of pet safety crash testing procedure, measuring your dog properly when buying a travel crate, types of dog crates for car travel, over to you, are all dog crates for cars crash tested, is it safe to put the dog crate in the trunk with the dog in it, what is the best car dog crate.

I picked 20 potential dog crates and examined them as much as possible. YouTube, Reddit, Quora, and even dog trainers… you name it, and I have checked with the source.

So, rest assured; this is the ultimate list of the best car friendly dog crates. 

Since it’s ranked, let’s start the list with the best.

9 of the Best Dog Crates for Car Travel

As you might already know, Gunner is a beloved dog crate brand, and they make the best car crates.

Their G1 kennel is crowned as the world’s safest travel kennel.

Let’s see what makes it so.

For starters, this dog’s crate is the only double-walled rotomolded crate in the market; it’s twice the safety of all regular rotomolded crates. In fact, it was crash tested by pet safety. 

I personally love how Gunner gives more reassurance as this Gunner kennel is 5-star crash tested. This crate is PROVEN to save real dogs in the event of a real car accident. 

Don’t believe me? You can check the video on the product’s site.

Pet parents will love the overall build quality of this crate; after all, it was made for travel. 

Coming in four sizes , Gunner has ensured that all puppies get to travel by car peacefully and comfortably.

The smallest size has external dimensions of 24.5″ (L) x 18.625″ (W) x 19″ (H) / 20.5″ (H) with carry handles, and the largest size is 40.25″ (L) x 28″ (W) x 33.25″ (H) / 34.5″ (H) with carry handles.

You can also choose based on your car’s or dog’s size.

This dog crate stays 12% cooler than leading Aluminum and single-wall rotomolded kennels. Your dog will also expend 20% less energy to stay warm inside. Your furry friend will be super comfortable inside with the spacious interior.

What else makes these the best car crates?

It comes with a robust frame system complimented by a strong locking paddle latch . But just in case, there are additional latches to ensure that not even Houdini can escape this dog crate.

Having an exposed dog crate in car travel is uncomfortable for your dog. That’s why the Gunner G1 comes with element-repelling windows. These windows keep your dog secured perfectly.

If it rains or the water bowl gets spilled inside, your dog won’t have to sit in a puddle. There’s a recessed bottom and a drainage plug . This ensures that the water drains quickly. It also makes it relatively easy to clean the inside of the pet crate.

The sheer difficulty of carrying these crates and safely tying them on surfaces. Gunner has integrated built-in tie-down pins and super strong carry handles to make the process easier. That’s not all; the G1 dog crate has a wider base and a non-slip bottom.

So, this heavy-duty travel crate stays sturdy and stable, whether you carry it on the back or inside the car. The overall ergonomic shape has a significant role in that.

Additionally, this is a dependable air travel crate too.

That’s not all; Gunner G1 is made in America , 100%. That’s probably why they’re confident enough to give a lifetime warranty.

This kennel comes in five attractive colors and is the hallmark of the highest-quality travel kennels. It’s my favorite dog crate simply due to its superior features.

Want to learn more about this dog crate? Checkout this review .

Dakota283 features a series of secure dog crates bespoke for car travel.

These are the G3 kennel, the original Kennebec kennel, the T1 low profile kennel, the 2D side entry kennel, and the Dakota hero kennel.

While these are unique products, the G3 kennel can be identified as common. 

So, what makes this dog crate car travel-friendly?

The smallest G3 dog crate size is 23L x 16W x 18.75H, weighing 20.2 lbs. The largest size is 38.5L x 25.5W x 29.5H, which weighs 59 lbs. 

You’ll also notice how the T1 low-profile kennel is shorter and longer. On the flip side, the 2D side entry and Hero kennel are thinner and taller. 

So, there’s a great size range. 

The easy grip handle definitely helps you position the crate well. You won’t know how useful it is until you have to move a container with a dog inside.

The covered or walled nature of the crate is an admirable similarity to the Gunner G1 kennel. This provides ample protection and a sense of safety when dogs are inside. 

To increase that safety and security, the G3 kennels come with amazing mesh windows/ screen doors. This is a keyed paddle latching door , so dealing with it is easier.

The G3 series comes in eight colors in a diverse color palette. The hero and T1 low-profile kennel come in two earth-tone colors.

It’s normal for dogs to have accidents inside their cage during long car travels. But it’s unpleasant to both you and your pet to let things be. Dakota283 understood the risk, and that’s why you get an easy-to-clean drain hole.

That’s a tell-tale sign of a hassle-free crate.

You can also get a recess for crate stacking , which is sold separately. This is most useful when you have multiple crates (multiple pets) inside Dakota283 cages.

It’s relieving that Dakota283 crates are molded and assembled in the USA. Because of that, you’re also entitled to free shipping to the continental US.

This crate can be kept inside or outside your car and is the best alternative for the Gunner G1 crate.

The Gen7Pets Commuter Pet Carrier is an entirely different product from the Gunner G1 and the first alternative solution.

But let’s see if you find this pet carrier better.

The Gen7Pets pet carrier comes in one size and only in black . But it’s always better to have pet carriers/crates in darker colors, and that original look lasts longer. 

The downside is the lack of size range.

But if your dog fits the size of an 18″ L x 11″ W x 11″ H enclosure, that shouldn’t be an issue. After all, the company recommends their pet carrier for small dogs and cats weighing up to 20 lbs.

At a weight of 4.41 lbs, the Gen7Pets pet carries are quite lightweight. 

Multiple carry straps compliment this lightweight nature. There are short and long (padded shoulder strap) ones for all situations. So you never have to worry about carrying it uncomfortably.

This is not a rotomolded or metallic crate; the Gen7Pets pet carrier is entirely made of nylon fabric. 

But despite the fabric made, another great reason why this pet carrier becomes the second best alternative is that it meets Federal Motor Safety Standards 213 , tested and approved. 

It’s obvious that it doesn’t provide security and safety remotely close to Gunner G1, but it’s still standardized.

Like Gunner G1 and Dakota283 crates, you can keep this outside or inside the car. This pet carrier is compatible with most car seat belts , and that’s an admirable plus point.

Your pet also gets comfortable two-way access points at the two ends of the pet carrier. At times, it’s more comfortable for you than for your pet to have multiple entrances. 

But it would help if you also were mindful about that extra entrance as it can be a risky exit.

Luckily, Gen7Pets is a USA-based brand , although they do not announce that these carriers are explicitly made in the USA. It also would have been nicer to have a warranty too.

But all things considered, the Gen7Pet pet carrier could potentially be the right dog crate for you.

At first glance, you’d notice how similar this looks to the Gunner G1 kennel. It’s another sign that Ruff Land Kennels were inspired by the best.

Let’s see what makes these kennels car-travel-friendly for dogs.

Similar to the Dakota283 product line, a set of crates is made for the secure containment of dogs.

Coming in six sizes , the smallest crate is 16″ wide at the widest point, 15″ tall, and 22 ¼” inches in length. The largest crate is as long as 40 3/8″, 22″ wide at the widest point, and 29 7/8″ inches tall.

In other words, various dog breeds of different sizes can conveniently be contained in these cages during car travels.

That spacious comfort is complemented by the Ruff™ flex technology in the kennels’ walls, top, and floor. It can be helpful for bumpy car rides as this built-in flexibility can absorb energy that would be transferred to your dog.

Ruff Land Kennels continues to escalate the comfort factor during car travels with the SureVent™ tapered wall design too. This vent hole series ensures that your dog experiences ideal air circulation throughout the journey.

But there’s another specialty of the SureVent™ technology; the walls are tapered , so the vent holes never get plugged. This ensures the risk is eliminated even if you slide the kennel up against a wall.

How amazing!

These crates also have a no-bite grid pattern to ensure your dog doesn’t bite the mesh door. This feature increases the overall lifespan of the crate by design. 

That’s not the only specialty of this door that makes these crates so car-travel-friendly; this is a two-way or ambidextrous door that can be adjusted to swing either way.

While the safety and comfort factor is superior, so is the hygiene factor. In fact, these Ruff Land Kennels come with a UpSide™ raised floor interior to ensure that debris and liquids that fall are channeled away from your dog.

The icing on the cake is the Rattle-less design feature that ensures the crate rattles comparatively least by design. You know how annoying it is when cages rattle.

In conclusion, you can definitely rely on these made-in-US Ruff Land Kennels as one of the best dog travel crates.

Click here to learn more about this kennel .

If you still haven’t found the best travel crate for your dog, you might like Petmate’s Sky Pet Kennel.

Similar to the Rufflandkennels, the Sky Kennels also come in one color ; light grey. But it looks dark enough, so you are safe there.

With six sizes from 21″ to 48″ in length, Petmate allows many dog sizes/breeds to travel in cars comfortably with its size range. 

This USA-made spacious dog travel crate is made with 90% pre-consumer recycled plastic content.

While it is very environmentally friendly, the strength factor is considerably high too. I admire how this heavy-duty plastic construction comes with non-corrosive plastic wing nuts.

Some of these features automatically make this crate suitable for air travel, similar to the Gunner G1 kennel. 

Thanks to the four-way ventilation system , your dog can breathe effortlessly inside the Petmate Sky dog travel crate. The door comes with a chew-proof mesh design , a dial latch system , and a 3-way locking vault door too. 

In other words, just as much as your dog gets enough air, it will always be inside the cage.

Additionally, the interior moat makes it super easy to keep animals dry. So, even if it doesn’t have a raised floor or a drainage plug, it does bring something similar to the table.

To make carrying easier, Petmate has included a handle , but it’s only available for sizes 21″ and 28″ inches, making it a bit of a letdown. It would also have been amazing if Petmate had given a warranty.

Remember that Petmate’s Sky Kennels can be bought with a Norton shopping guarantee to protect your purchase.

As another alternative, the Petmate Sky Kennel is one of the safest dog crates recommendable for pet owners.

MIM Variocage is another one of the great dog car crates by design.

This dog cage comes in a completely unique shape. Made from carbon fiber , the MIM company boasts that it is the only tested crate in the market for car crashes.

That’s a bit misleading, given how Gunner G1 has undergone several crash tests more than the Variocage.

But it’s fascinating how the cage’s length is adjustable . There’s a convenient slider on the bottom of the cage for that — it’s that easy. This design is complimented by the crumple zone that helps absorb shock better.

You never have to worry about ventilation or ideal lighting since this is a carbon fiber wire crate of sorts. However, you might need to cover it when required. 

The door of the Variocage is impressive. 

It comes with a single-flick latch and a key lock system . The placement of the lock and the gas hydraulic motion strings ensure that there’s no way that even the best escape artists can escape this MIM product.

You can buy the MIM Variocage in six sizes and one standard color . 

The smallest cage is 38.97 “L x 21.85 “W x 23.22 “H, and the largest is 41.73 “L x 27.55” W x 30.71 “H. So, the space factor is effortlessly in favor of your furry friend.

But thanks to the different shapes it can take, you can technically have up to 18 sizes.

Did I tell you that this crate comes with an emergency escape hatch ? 

This dual-entry system skyrockets the safety of your dog at any time. In confined spaces like inside cars, these dual doors can be helpful. But pet parents must be attentive as it poses a danger and is another exit point.

You can conveniently keep the MIM Variocage on your car trunk or in front . But it would have been better if its build quality made fixing the crate to the vehicle easier.

Yet, it’s one of the best dog crates dog owners can count on.

Diggs is a brand that focuses on elevating the well-being of your furry friends. Their passenger travel carrier is another alternative.

Unlike the last few crates, this comes in one dark color and three lighter colors . However, this carrier is only available in one size .

The unique style factor of the Diggs passenger travel carrier is sky-high. You could use this for travel and take it to a five-star hotel, by plane, train, or even by foot all the same.

That should hint to you about the dog sizes the carrier can handle.

It’s small to medium dogs AND cats up to 18 lbs.

To be more specific about the dimensions, it has external dimensions of 20 “L x 10.8 “W x 11.5 “H and internal dimensions of 18 “L x 10” W x 10.75 “H while weighing 4.5 lbs. 

In other words, these are fabric-based soft-sided crates.

But you’d be surprised to hear that the Diggs passenger travel carrier for dogs is one of the crash-tested dog crates . In fact, this particular dog carrier has a five-star rating, which is the highest attainable. 

After all, you get custom seat belt clips and a buckle strap to keep your pet safe.

Any pet parent will use the cross-body strap just as much as the D-ring clip for your keys and the collar tether clip to secure your pet when the carrier is open.

Remember that this is a crate with multiple openings . While it is advantageous in car travel, you must ensure the secondary exits are 100% secure.

With enough ventilation and privacy , and a bed and pee included , the Diggs passenger travel carrier is one of the best dog crates.

Next, I will talk about another fabric-based soft-sided dog crate; the K&H carrier for pets.

This tent-like dog crate comes in three sizes , whose smallest has dimensions of 17″ x 16″ x 15″, and the largest is 29.5″ x 22″ x 22.5. In fact, K&H recommends the crate for dogs weighing up to 40 pounds.

But remember that it comes in only one color.

Nonetheless, your dog will get the utmost sense of security as it comes with double mesh sides , making it easier to see. 

That indirectly means that it is always better to keep this dog crate inside the car. But don’t worry! K&H carrier has straps looped around the headrest and straps for any car seat. 

Just as much as the comfortable space factor, your dog will love the comfort pad on the bottom . Cleaning it is easier as you can easily remove it.

Having multiple entries by design is another admirable feature. Once again, ensure all other entries are perfectly enclosed before you start driving.

This soft crate has strong enough fixed curved wires to maintain its shape . When you don’t want it, you can fold it flat . Nonetheless, note that this carrier can hold only well-tamed dogs.

You can’t secure just about any dog like the Gunner G1 as the K&H carrier is made of fabric not as strong as a double-walled rotomolded design.

The verdict? It’s a dependable carrier, but you should understand the conditions it works the best in.

The last resort of this list is the Petmate Aspen dog kennel. Let’s see why it made it to this list.

Coming in four sizes , this solid dog crate fits dogs between 25-90 lbs, which is an impressive weight range. The best thing is that even cats could fit in this crate.

Since it’s not fabric made, there’s no risk of collapsibility. On top of that, the mesh door’s wire design doesn’t have a lot of space between openings. 

This makes it impossible for dogs to chew and damage the door.

The dog crate is made by connecting the top and bottom parts with nuts . The top part has ventilation all over, so your dog will be more than comfortable inside. The Aspen dog kennel’s interior shape satisfies natural denning instincts too. 

But it would have been amazing if the crate had carry handles, as it doesn’t fold flat.

Pet parents should know that this crate doesn’t come assembled . But don’t worry; it doesn’t take that much effort or expertise to get it up.

I also think it would have been better if this dog crate had some sort of warranty. 

In conclusion, this durable plastic crate, with an easy-open latch, is my best last recommendation for a car-travel-friendly crate.

With that, my top 9 list of best dog crates comes to an end. Next, let’s look at all the must-know information regarding dog crates.

Features to Look for in Dog Crates for Car Travel

While there are so many features to look for in a car travel dog crate, the following points cover all of them. Let’s look at it one by one.

Prioritize a dog crate that provides enough space for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. 

This is why you should know the space inside the car and the dog’s measurements. Opt for a bigger dog crate since the dog’s potential growth from puppyhood is faster than you think.

You shouldn’t underestimate the rigors of car travel. Some dog crates , like Gunner G1, are made to sustain all damages in car travel. 

If not for the best, even the wire or plastic alternatives should still be strong enough and built with lasting materials.

Car travel can get messy, so it’s best to get a bottom-covered/fully-covered dog crate or a crate with removable trays or pans. 

Remember that dog crates with stain-resistant or odor-resistant materials can keep unpleasant smells at bay.

Adequate ventilation is crucial to keep your dog comfortable during vehicle rides. Look for dog crates with proper ventilation options, such as mesh panels or ventilation holes. 

Don’t compromise overall quality simply due to higher ventilation by wire dog crates .

Choose dog crates with secure locks, preferably with more than one, to prevent accidental openings while the vehicle is in motion.

Crash-tested designs with built-in restraints or even non-slip rubber grip feet can skyrocket the overall travel experience.

Next, let me tell you why you should use dog crates when traveling by car (with a dog, of course).

Having a crate while traveling with your dog in the car brings you many benefits, and I’ll get to that in the next subtopic.

But why should pet owners use a crate, specifically?

It’s mainly to dedicate a space to your dog during the trip. The specialty is that your dog’s movement will be limited to this area. 

And there are so many benefits of having this dedicated space/crate for your dog while traveling by car. Let’s talk about them next.

Here are the ten most valuable benefits of investing in a travel friendly dog crate:

• Enhanced safety for your dog during car rides.
• Reduction of potential distractions for the driver.
• Prevention of injuries during sudden stops or accidents.
• Alleviation of anxiety and motion sickness in dogs.
• Protection of your car’s interior from potential damage.
• Compliance with legal requirements for pet transportation.
• Creation of familiar and secure space for your dog.
• Promotion of a calm and controlled travel environment.
• Facilitation of easier management of your dog’s behavior.
• Versatility for indoor confinement or training processes.

There are so many more, but I could summarize all of it as it’s worth it .

Now, where do you have the crate? Let’s talk about that next.

Where to Put Travel Dog Crates in the Vehicle?

Picking the place depends on a few factors. Here are a few options to consider,

This is a great place for SUVs, hatchbacks, or even station wagons, but you must secure the crate to prevent it from sliding or tipping during the journey.

In the case of the absence of a cargo area, you can keep the dog cage on the backseat as long as it is securely fastened using seat belts or specialized attachments designed for dog crates.

Some vehicles have a rear bench seat, and it’s a great alternative place too. Just make sure that there’s enough visibility at all times.

Placing the dog cage on the middle seat gives the best visibility and closer proximity to passengers, allowing easier monitoring and interaction with the dog. This could also be the child car seat, especially for small dogs.

If you’re traveling only with your dog, keeping them in the front seat will make them feel more comfortable. With better visibility, you don’t have to keep looking back, either.

But I suggest NOT placing the dog crate in the passenger footwell, protruding into the aisle, or blocking airbags. It’ll be a peaceful ride if you follow these instructions.

I know there are long guidelines for travel with a dog crate, but let me make it easier for you.

As long as you follow these four tips, it’s ALL you need for a peaceful ride:

• Properly acclimate and train your dog to the crate BEFORE traveling to ensure they feel comfortable and secure.
• Pack essential supplies such as water, food, treats, and bedding to keep your dog comfortable and meet their needs throughout the trip.
• Prioritizing regular exercise and bathroom breaks to allow your dog to stretch their legs, relieve themselves, and feel restlessness during the journey.
• Maintain a comfortable temperature, and ensure proper ventilation in the vehicle to keep your dog safe and prevent them from becoming too hot or cold.

That’s it — follow these, and everything should be fine.

Center for Pet Safety ( CPS ) is an independent organization that conducts crash tests for pet products. In this context, car travel crates. 

What’s special or standardized about them?

They use the test condition ECE R-17 which is a European test standard developed to assess the strength of seats, their anchorages, and head restraint.

So, CPS certifies products that meet rigorous standards and publishes the results on its website.

That’s the level of transparency CPS maintains.

All you need to worry about are four parameters such as length, height, width, and weight. 

For starters, measure from the dog’s nose tip to the tail’s base, and add a few inches, and that’s the length.

When you measure from the top of your dog’s head/highest point of their ears to the ground and add a few inches, that’s the crate height.

Measure the widest part of your dog’s body, typically around their chest or shoulders, and again, add a few inches, and that’s the crate width.

Although the standard measurements are done, check your dog’s weight for a better choice of sizes.

If you are still confused about measuring the size of your dog for a crate, checkout this article for better understanding .

While there are several dog car crate types, let me list down some of the most common types.

• Rotomolded crates 
• Soft-sided/ fabric crates
• Plastic crates
• Metallic (fully) or wire crates
• Vari-kennels
• Custom or build-in crates (to your car)

Out of these, you should prioritize the rotomolded and the metallic crates as they last the longest and are the safest.

Having a travel-friendly crate for a family with a dog is an investment. Some of the best crates are designed to fit not only as a car crate. They can also be your everyday, outdoor, and even airplane-approved crate.

The Gunner G1 is such a legendary car crate . As I told you, it’s the best dog car crate by design. Buy that, and you’ll never have to worry about any travel issues with your dog.

I hope this review was helpful to you. See you in another!

No; not all dog crates for cars are crash tested and if one is, the manufacturer will typically advertise it to increase its value.

No, it is not safe to put a dog crate in the trunk with the dog in it. The trunk does not provide ventilation or a sense of security for the dog.

The Gunner G1 is considered the best car dog crate for travel, with its certified safety and durability.

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10 Best Travel Crates for Dogs in 2022

Last updated July 5, 2022 | Follow us on Facebook Here

Packing up the car and taking a road trip with your best (dog) friend can seem like a great idea. But there are a lot of places dogs aren’t allowed, and that’s where a travel crate can come into play, especially if you’re staying in hotels.

I personally have taken 5-6 trips across the United States with two dogs. We’ve used multiple types of crates, starting with the traditional house crate (hard wired metal) and finally settling on a foldable soft crate.

Noz2Noz Soft-Krater Indoor and Outdoor Crate

With a great ease of use and ability to be easily cleaned, this water resistant crate is a perfect option. It offers a variety of sizes and is very easy to assemble and use.

2Pet Foldable Dog Crate

This crate features a waterproof base and a portion of the proceeds go to a great animal cause. A washable fleece pad is the icing on the cake with this one.

Soft Crate vs. Hard Crate

You could not pay me to take a road trip with a metal crate, with one exception: I was driving a truck and the dog was comfortable or preferred the bed of the truck as opposed to the inside floor. Other than that I’m taking a soft crate every single time.

The primary reason is weight. Lugging in 1, 2, 3 or more hard crates into a hotel room is pure torture, especially if you have large dogs, which means large crates.

It’s true that hard crates are easier to clean up, so if you have an older dog or a younger dog prone to accidents then a hard crate may be worth it, but even then it’s a close call.

Travel Crate

While cars are made for human safety, they are not always the safest for pups, especially because they cannot wear a traditional seat-belt ( although there are dog specific seat-belts and harnesses ) as we can. Some (not all) travel crates make sure that your dog is secure and in the event of a crash, they stay inside the vehicle instead of being ejected.

However, most travel crates are simply meant for hotels or overnight stays where you can’t leave the dog in the room to roam about. We almost never use crates inside cars (occasionally in a truck bed). Instead we’ll set up our soft crates in the hotel room so we can visit a local museum, restaurant, or another attraction where dogs aren’t allowed.

10 Best Travel Crates for Dogs

1. noz2noz soft-krater indoor and outdoor crate.

This model also comes in 5 different sizes for dogs weighing up to 70 pounds. The crate is made of a tight-weave mesh fabric that is heavy-duty for pet wear and tear durability. The soft crate is ideal for long trips as it is well ventilated and it sets up in a very short amount of time.

The Noz2Noz model has a water resistant base for accidents and easy cleaning and the entire cover surrounding the steel frame is washable in your washing machine.

Pros: Comes in a variety of sizes, washable, water resistant

Cons: More expensive than other brands

2. 2Pet Foldable Dog Crate  

This crate features a steel frame design covered with a water resistant nylon variant over. It has mesh panel windows and a waterproof mat for the flooring of the crate. It also comes with a washable fleece cushion pad.

A portion of the sales also goes to pet shelters and charities, which is a great perk!  The crate also comes with a 1 year warranty.

The crate has installed carrying handles and is foldable and lightweight.

Pros: A portion of the proceeds goes to charity, waterproof, and lightweight

3. AmazonBasics Portable Folding Travel Kennel

A soft crate, this product comes in five different sizes to accommodate many different sizes of dogs, weighing up to 70 pounds. Featuring two doors on the front and the top, this crate makes for easy access and entry and has ventilation for your pooch on all four sides of the kennel.

With zippers to close the doors and straps to help to fasten unzipped doors, the mechanism is easy to use and provides for ultimate assurance that your dog is fastened in.

The kennel folds up flat for storage and transport and sets up quickly without any tools. The rounded corners of this kennel make sure not to damage the interior of your vehicle during travel.

Pros: Easy set up, folds up, zipper closures

Cons: No carry handles

4. Diggs Revol Small Dog Crate  

This particular crate is made of high-grade aluminum, steel mesh wire, and reinforced plastic, all of which are non-toxic and safe for your dog. The crate is collapsible, easy to transport and has three carrying handles. This crate comes with wheels and a large garage-style door.

This crate fits any breed up to 30 pounds and has a puppy divider, a removable tray and a ceiling hatch. The dimensions of this kennel are 25x17x19.

Pros: Easy to clean, collapsible, non-toxic

Cons: comes in one size

5. Aspen Pet Porter Heavy-Duty Pet Porter

With eight size choices, this model dog crate packs a punch! One perk about this kennel is that with an easy-open latch, you can open the crate with one hand. This specific crate meets most airline cargo specifications and regulations.

It is made up of a heavy-duty plastic shell and metal screws and features a lightweight design.

Pros: Airline cargo certified, 8 size choices

Cons: Does not fold down

6. AmazonBasics Two-Door Top-Load Kennel

You have two size options with this particular crate. It is a hard-shell, two-door top-load model. The top door is able to open up to the left or the right. While the exterior is made of plastic, the front door is comprised of a steel wire to safely secure your pup.

The price point is very reasonable and is easy to clean. If simplicity is your goal, this is a great option.

Pros: Simplicity and price

7. EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate

The EliteField model comes in 5 size options to accommodate your dog and over 10 color options! Although this is a soft crate, the frame is a strong steel tube and the crate cover is made out of a durable fabric.

This kennel has a total of three doors: one on the top, one on the front and one on the side. It comes with a carrying bag and fleece bed for free! Also, it should be noted that a 2 year warranty comes along with this product.

Pros: 2 year warranty, free carrying bag and fleece bed, many color choices

Cons: Higher price point

8. Guardian Gear Collapsible Dog Crate  

This crate features 4 different sizes and is able to accompany large dogs such as Great Danes, Great Pyrenees, Greyhounds, and St. Bernards. It is quick and simple to assemble and to take apart and has mesh windows on all four sides for ventilation and visibility.

This model has a machine-washable sheepskin mat, along with a carrying handle.

Pros: Has a very large size option, Quick Assembly

9. New World Folding Metal Dog Crate

This brand offers options! You can choose from 5 different sizes and a single or double door. It is a folding metal crate with two heavy duty slide-bolt latches. The New World crate has a leak-proof plastic pan for accidents. No tools are needed to assemble this kennel and it fits easily in the back of a vehicle.

Although it does not come with any soft bedding, your dog’s bed can be added for extra comfort.

Pros: A great price point, many customizable options

Cons: No soft bedding included

10. LUCKUP Heavy Duty Dog Crate

The Luckup crate is very heavy-duty and the frame is made of steel for durability. The finish on it is nontoxic for your pup’s safety. It has a double door and a locking caster. The bottom of the crate is made to easily be able to slide out for cleaning. You can choose from 3 different size options for this crate.

Unique to others, the bars are much thicker and appear to be more sturdy. It can fit in the back of a vehicle for easy transport.

Pros: Durability, Non-toxic

Cons: No carrying handles

My detailed travel crate setup

For the past several years we’ve used the same two Noz2Noz Soft-Krater without a single issue.

Unfortunately we didn’t start out using soft crates. We started with the traditional metal crates (that way a ton!).

Our first road trip was about 3 weeks across the U.S. and I will never, ever, ever again use metal crates. Holy cow was that a pain.

Our car is packed exactly the same, except we now use soft crates, which pack down even smaller than the picture below. Once we reach the hotel, if we need to leave the dogs for an excursion or something, we’ll unpack the crates and set them up like below.

You can see the 2 soft crates setup in the hotel room, and I also left the laptop in the picture because we use a program called iCam that streams the laptop camera to our phone. That way we can check on the dogs while we’re out.

The crates break down super quick, and we pack up the following day (or whenever we’re done at that hotel).

We don’t even own the metal crates anymore. We used to keep them around in case we needed to crate them in the house, but now we just use the soft crates for that as well.

Let me know in the comments which option you end up going with!

August 14, 2022 at 7:29 pm

Nice info … however, never leave your dog unattended in a hotel room. In fact, in most places it’s a policy and in some municipalities, it’s against the law.

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10 Best Dog Crates for the Car (Reviews Updated 2022)

In our guide, we’ll review the best dog crates for the car, and explain what makes each one unique. Following that, our buyer’s guide will simplify the task of choosing a crate for your car, and inspire you to take that next road trip with confidence.

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Best Dog Crates for the Car

Here are our reviews of the best dog crates for the car.

1. MidWest Homes for Pets Dog Crate

The MidWest Homes for Pets Dog Crate is a foldable metal crate that can be used on car seats or in a cargo area. Heavy-duty slide bolt latch keeps your dog safely and securely confined. It folds flat in seconds without tools, once the journey is over.

• Available in single or double door models
• Comes in seven sizes to best fit your needs
• Includes crate divider to keep it appropriately sized for the dog’s life stage

2. AmazonBasics Folding Metal Dog Crate

The AmazonBasics Folding Metal Dog Crate is a folding metal wire crate that can be used to safely transport your dog anywhere you go. Double slide-bolt latches keep the door locked and adds stability. Once you reach your destination, the crate folds flat and has a handle for easy transport.

• Composite floor pan to contain any messes or accidents
• Comes in a single or double door design
• Available in six sizes to fit your dog and vehicle

3. Petnation Port-A-Crate

The Petnation Port-A-Crate is a lightweight soft crate that works great for transporting your dog. It is made from a tight-weave mesh over a folding steel frame. Available in four sizes, it is a great option for crate trained dogs up to 70 pounds.

• Honeycomb mesh windows allow optimal ventilation
• The two-door style allows access from the front or the top
• The cover is fully machine washable

4. EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate

The EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate is a versatile soft crate that is great for traveling. Constructed from a durable 600D fabric over a steel tube frame, it is designed to last. Once the trip is over, the bag is easily carried by either the hand carrying straps or padded shoulder strap.

• Includes a free carrying bag and fleece crate bed
• Folds flat to just 3” thick for easy storage
• Three mesh doors provide ultimate ventilation and visibility

5. Noz2Noz Soft-Krater

The Noz2Noz Soft-Krater is a heavy-duty soft crate that stands up to the rigors of travel. It is made from a mesh weave fabric over a steel frame. Sets up and collapses in seconds with the push-button operation.

• Available in five sizes
• Cover can be removed for easy cleaning and is machine washable
• Rounded corners won’t harm auto interiors

6. Petmate Sky Kennel

The Petmate Sky Kennel is a super sturdy plastic hard crate that is perfect for traveling. The design is fully compliant with highway travel recommendations, so you can have confidence in its performance. The extra strong wire door ensures your dog stays safely confined.

• Available in six sizes to make sure all dogs have the chance to stay safe
• Vault door and wire vents provide 360-degree visibility and ventilation
• Satisfies your dog’s natural urge to den, making them feel extra secure while traveling

7. Aivituvin Soft-Sided Pet Travel Carrier

The Aivituvin Soft-Sided Pet Travel Carrier is a great travel crate for dogs under 20 pounds. It is designed to provide comfortable ventilation on all sides. It includes a fleece crate mat that can be machine washed.

• Super lightweight design
• Folds down for simple storage
• Shoulder carrying strap

8. Petmate Two Door Top Load

The Petmate Two Door Top Load is a sturdy plastic travel crate designed for small dogs. It has grated steel doors that provide solid security for your dog. The 360-degree vented sides provide great airflow and visibility.

• Easy squeeze latches to easily secure your pet
• Unique top loading door makes loading and unloading your dog easy
• Comes in four color options

9. SportPet Designs Travel Dog Crate

The SportPet Designs Travel Dog Crate is a durable and versatile dog crate for travel. Openings on all sides provide optimal ventilation. Top handles and removable wheels make moving the crate to and from your vehicle easy.

• Includes live animal stickers, food and water bowls, and metal nuts and bolts
• Six sizes available for dogs of all sizes
• Removable wheels to help ease movement when not traveling

10. Impact Collapsible Aluminum Dog Crate

The Impact Collapsible Aluminum Dog Crate is a heavy-duty aluminum travel crate. Super durable, it is constructed from powder-coated .063 aluminum. The crush-proof corners and welded rivets add to the ultra high strength design.

• Available in four sizes for dogs up to 100 pounds
• Ultimate flow-through ventilation on all four sides
• No need to lock the door behind your dog with the unique “slam-latch”

Car Dog Crate Buyer’s Guide

Two things you’ll want to consider when choosing a dog crate for the car are whether you want a soft or hard crate, and what sizes that crate is available in.’

One difference between a soft and a hard crate is going to be the ease of cleaning it. With most soft crates, you can simply take off the fabric cover and throw it in the laundry, essentially making cleaning a one-step process. With hard crates, you’ll either need to remove the floor pan and wash it or take the top half off of the crate and wash the bottom out and dry it manually. Another difference is going to be safety. In the event of an accident or collision, a hard crate is going to provide an extra layer of rigid protection for the dog, whereas a soft crate is going to deform much more easily, and will not offer much in the way of protection.

Dog Crates for the Car Review Conclusion

We hope our guide has helped you to be able to make a more educated decision regarding what you need in a crate and simplified the task of choosing a dog crate for your car. As long as you take into account the size of the dog, and whether you prefer the crate to be hard or soft, you can choose the best crate for your car.

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The 15 Best Travel Dog Crates & Carriers [2023]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

767 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

29 Published Articles 3091 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

Things To Consider With Travel Dog Crates

1. luxury carrier for high-flying pooches, 2. superstrong pet carrier for use on the plane, 3. multi-purpose crate for adventurous dogs, 4. rolling dog carrier for longer journeys, 5. 2-in-1 carrier and rolling kennel, 6. fuss-free travel kennel for everyday use, 7. lightweight pet carrier for easy transportation, 1. basic dog crate that can fold down for easy storage, 2. soft dog crate for smaller breeds, 3. plastic carry crate for the trunk of your car, 4. multi-purpose crate for bigger pooches, 5. heavy-duty crate for dogs who like their own personal space, 6. excellent pop-up-style dog crate, 7. collapsible crate for use in your vehicle, 8. for dogs who like to be close by you, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Keep your dog safe and calm with a dedicated doggie travel crate or carrier. Made from strong and durable materials, they are comfortable, secure, and an absolute must-have for dog lovers who never want to leave their furry friends behind.

Not all dog crates are suitable for every size of dog or type of journey. Consider the following before you buy:

There are 2 main types of crates and carriers to choose from, with both styles being better suited to different situations and doggie personalities:

Hard-sided Crates and Carriers — These are an excellent choice for long road trips and can be used as a secure spot for your dog to sleep in when you reach your destination.

Strong and sturdy, they are also an excellent choice for dogs who like to chew, and the molded plastic construction is easy to clean between uses.

Soft-sided Crates and Carriers — These are good for dogs who are used to traveling, and the lightweight design makes them more suitable for use on airplanes and shorter journeys.

As long as you choose the right size to suit your dog, these flexible carriers are easy for you to carry and come with additional features, such as padded shoulder straps and handy storage pockets.

While you may be restricted by airline regulations or the physical size of your cargo area, it is super important that the dog crate or carrier that you choose has enough space for your dog to travel comfortably in.

It should be big enough for your pooch to sit, stand, sleep and turn around in while still being compact enough to keep them feeling safe and secure. As a general rule, the crate or carrier you choose should be no more than 6 inches longer than your dog.

Crates and carriers are usually available in different sizes to suit a wide variety of breeds. Measure your dog from his neck to his rear legs and again from his shoulders to the ground to get a good idea of which size crate or carrier will suit him best.

Most manufacturers will also recommend a maximum weight for their crates and carriers . This is particularly important if you are planning on carrying your dog around in it.

If your dog is between weights or sizes, always choose the crate or carrier that can offer the greatest capacity to ensure that it is strong enough and roomy enough for them to feel comfortable in.

The crate or carrier you choose should be strong and sturdy enough to secure your 4-legged friend in transit without making them feel scared or uncomfortable.

Look for crates and carriers that have strong zippers or clasps on the doors to stop your dog from making an escape, and only ever choose a model that offers mesh sides or ventilation slots to ensure that your dog can breathe easily.

If you are traveling in your vehicle, the crate or carrier should be kept secure using the seat belt or shoulder harness to stop your dog from being thrown around on the road.

Some dogs get very nervous when traveling, and others really don’t like being confined in a crate or carrier.

Try and make them feel more comfortable by looking for options that offer soft and cozy seating areas that can be washed between uses , and maybe throw their favorite toy or blanket in there with them.

Bottom Line: Mesh sides are not only useful for ventilation, but they also let your dog see out, which may help them to feel more relaxed if they have eyes on their favorite humans at all times.

The 7 Best Travel Dog Crates for Airlines

Sherpa travel original deluxe airline approved pet carrier.

Take your 4-legged friend away with you in this awesome lightweight pet carrier. Suitable for medium-sized dogs, this carrier measures 17 x 11 x 10.5 inches and can hold up to 16 pounds in weight. With a patented spring wire frame, it can be pushed down to ensure that it fits neatly under your seat in transit.

Perfect for use while you fly, your dog will love the comfortable faux lambskin liner , and with a nonslip carrying handle and useful rear pocket for treats and poop bags, owners will love the convenience that this brilliant travel crate offers.

Available in a choice of colors for stylish doggos and their owners, this portable pet carrier can be folded up small for easy storage when not in use. Also available in a choice of small or large sizes, the Sherpa carry-on for your pooch is ready and waiting for your next adventure.

What We Like

• This bag is super sturdy and incredibly comfortable

What We Don’t Like

• The carrier is not as luxurious as some other models out there

Hot Tip: For all of your pet’s accessories, check out our guide to the best dog travel bags , including totes and backpacks.

Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier

This hardside pet crate offers increased security for your furry friend while also being lightweight and travel-friendly.

Made from durable plastic materials, it has been constructed using non-corrodible wing nuts , extra-strong steel wire, and an interlocking door to enhance protection and ensure that your dog will never escape or be injured during transit.

Available in a choice of sizes, you can choose from the 21-, 28-, 32-, 36-, 40-, and 48-inch options to ensure that your dog has enough space to suit its size, and with vented openings all around it, this crate will ensure that your dog stays safe and healthy.

• The carrier has super-tough construction and additional safety features
• This crate can feel heavy when your dog is in it

Petmate Vari Kennel Heavy-Duty Dog Travel Crate

Comfortable and incredibly secure, this awesome travel crate is suitable for use both on the airplane and as a comfortable kennel space when you reach your destination.

With tie-down strap holds and wire vents for ventilation, your pooch will stay safely in place during your flight, and with an easy-open front latch, you can quickly release your dog for much-needed cuddles when you arrive.

The raised interior is perfect for letting them sleep on their favorite blanket, and suitable for dogs weighing up to 70 pounds, this travel crate lets your best friend travel everywhere with you.

Designed to meet most airline cargo specifications, this super-secure travel crate will help to keep your dog calm and relaxed as they fly. Also available in a range of smaller sizes, there is a Petmate Vari Travel Kennel to suit all breeds of dogs.

• This travel kennel is practical, durable, and pleasingly affordable
• There is no carry handle

Coopeter Airline Dog Carrier

Unique and highly portable, this rolling dog carrier makes light work of long journeys for you and your 4-legged friend.

Made from superstrong materials, it comes with a detachable 4-wheel platform and a longer-length handle that lets you pull the carrier along behind you.

With additional nonslip grab handles and an adjustable shoulder strap , you can also use it without the wheels when you want to. With mesh sides, your pooch will be able to breathe well and keep its eye on you at all times, and the soft-sided interior provides a warm and cozy space for naps.

Measuring up at 19.7 x 12.2 x 11.8 inches, this pet carrier is suitable for small-breed dogs, and when not in use, it can be folded up compact for easy storage. Comfortable, cozy, and incredibly cool, your dog will love traveling around in this innovative dog carrier.

• The wheeled base and extendable handle are convenient to use
• It is quite small, so check the measurements

SportPet Designs Rolling Plastic Kennel

This portable kennel has a spacious interior and a sturdy build, and your pooch will quickly grow to love it almost as much as you do.

The convenient removable wheels make it a breeze to glide through the airport, and with 2 dishes, 4 live animal stickers, tie-down bungee straps, and metal bolts and nuts included, this carrier meets all the IATA airline requirements for dogs in transit .

Available in a selection of sizes from S through to 3XL, this rolling pet kennel can accommodate all breeds of dog, and with superfast assembly, it is perfect for use both while traveling and back at home.

For added security, this crate also comes with locking snaps on the sides and a strong metal door with an easy-to-grasp latch to ensure that your best friend is safely tucked away during the journey.

• This is a good-sized, very secure travel kennel
• It is quite heavy when your dog is in it

Aspen Pet Traditional Kennel

With sturdy plastic construction, this traditional-style dog carrier is an excellent choice for pets weighing between 20 and 30 pounds.

Offering a simple, fuss-free design, your furry best friend can enjoy 360-degree ventilation to feel cool and comfortable , and the easy-to-open squeeze latch door is perfect for superfast loading and unloading.

In addition, the raised interior is a safe and comfortable space for your dog, and the secure tie-down holes will ensure that your best bud doesn’t slide around in transit.

Easy to carry using the top handle, this travel kennel also comes in smaller 20- and 25-inch versions for smaller breeds. The functional design makes this suitable for use as a training kennel at home and a secure and safe space for traveling.

• The design is fuss-free and easy to use
• It doesn’t feel quite as high quality as some of its competitors

Petsfit Airline Approved Dog Carrier

Lightweight and easy to carry, this travel dog carrier comes with a nonslip shoulder strap and grab handles, making it easy to take your best friend with you while you travel.

The mesh sides help to keep your dog cool, and the wire frame ensures that this carrier keeps its shape in transit.

Designed to conform perfectly with the under-seat dimensions of most airlines, your 4-legged friend can stay by your side as you fly, and the built-in safety tether on the inside will ensure that your pet is safely secured at all times .

For increased comfort, this brilliant carrier comes with a soft fleece mat that will help your pooch feel at home along the way, and with an additional backstrap, you can fasten the carrier to your luggage for seamless transportation around the airport.

• The carrier can be folded up when not in use
• It doesn’t feel substantial enough to hold heavier dogs

The 8 Best Travel Dog Crates for Cars

Amazon basics portable folding soft dog travel crate.

This soft-sided and easy-to-fold 36-inch dog crate is perfect for road trips and overnight stays and offers plenty of comfort and security for even the most nervous of 4-legged travelers.

With 2 separate doors, it is easy to load and unload your pet for their next big adventure, and with ventilation on all 4 sides, your dog will be able to breathe easily along the way.

The secure zipper closures keep the crate secure, and with roll up and down doors, you can let your dog see out or roll them back down when it’s time to snooze.

Made from strong and durable polyester material, this crate comes with a PVC frame that can be set up and folded back down in an instant , and with the ability to hold up to 90 pounds in weight, this is an excellent option for larger breeds.

• The crate is spacious and highly durable
• It doesn’t come with carrying handles

EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate

This 24-inch dog crate is also available in larger 20-, 30-, 36-, and 42-inch versions, and the soft-sided design offers incredible versatility and comfort for your furry friend.

With a strong steel frame, it is sturdy enough to handle your pup’s weight, and the highly durable 600D fabric and hex mesh fabric will keep your dog well-ventilated in transit .

Designed to be wider and higher than most standard dog crates, your dog will have plenty of space to move around, and with 2 accessory pockets on the outside, you can keep their treats, leashes and other essentials close at hand.

As an added bonus, this model also comes with a free fleece bed included, as well as a carry bag, giving you and your pooch everything you need to stay safe, comfortable, and most of all calm on long car journeys or back at home.

• This soft crate offers stress-free transportation
• The zippers don’t feel secure enough for dogs that push against them

Ferplast Atlas Scenic SUV & Car Dog Crate

Suitable for medium-size breeds, this crate measures 39 x 26 x 26 inches, making it suitable for use in the cargo area of most SUVs and hatchbacks.

Strong enough to comfortably hold dogs weighing as much as 60 pounds, this crate comes with super-sturdy molded handles that let you lift the crate (and dog) in and out of the vehicle when you need to.

Offering vented panels all the way along the sides , this model offers excellent ventilation to keep your dog comfortable and relaxed along the way, and the tough plastic and metal mesh is designed to withstand even the most enthusiastic of 4-legged friends.

With a convenient locking system built into the front door and a sliding opening, this crate will keep your dog safely contained while also helping to save space in your cargo area, and the versatile design can be completely dismantled for easy storage when not in use.

• This crate fits most vehicles
• It doesn’t feel that it would be able to stand up to escape artists

Noz2Noz Soft-Krater Indoor and Outdoor Crate for Pets

This soft-sided crate lets you take your best friend on long road trips with you, and the versatile and highly portable design is comfortable and convenient for your dog.

Made with a water-resistant base, it is perfect for nervous pooches as it can be cleaned up very easily , and the fully washable cover can be thrown into the machine between uses.

With a sturdy steel frame, it is designed to be strong and durable, and the novel design can be set up and folded down in an instant.

With mesh panels for increased ventilation and a better view for your 4-legged friend, this crate comes with rounded corners to prevent scratches. Available in a selection of sizes, this model can fit pets weighing up to 100 pounds.

• The crate can easily be cleaned between uses
• The zipper closure feels a bit flimsy

Petsfit Portable Soft Collapsible Dog Crate

This 30-inch foldable dog crate is strong enough to comfortably carry dogs weighing up to 88 pounds, and the spacious interior has been designed to keep your pooch feeling calm and comfortable.

Made from high-quality materials, it comes with grid doors on the front, top, and side for easier loading and unloading, and the pocket on the back is a handy space to hold treats, snacks, leashes, and other doggie travel accessories.

Featuring an upgraded hexagonal structure grid, this crate is incredibly sturdy , and with Velcro-zippered doors, your dog will stay safely housed at all times.

With rounded corners on the top, this crate will slip neatly into your vehicle without causing any damage to the interior, and the foldable steel frame has a washable soft cover and can be folded down quickly for convenient storage when not in use.

• The spacious interior is perfect for larger dogs
• The mesh doesn’t feel particularly strong

Petsfit Collapsible Soft Dog Crate

Perfect for small and medium breeds, this pop-up style dog crate measures 30 x 20 x 19 inches and has 2 doors for easier loading and unloading.

Both doors can be rolled up so your dog can see out, and the mesh panels allow for increased ventilation along the way.

Lightweight while still being incredibly sturdy , this dog crate can also be used as an open bed, giving your dog their own space — both in transit and when you reach your destination.

With a removable and washable soft pad, this is a super-comfy base for your best friend while you are away from home.

With a patented screw-in design that lets you set the crate up in seconds, this is an awesome travel crate that can easily be dismantled and stored between uses.

• The crate sets up superfast
• There are more sturdy dog crates out there

Amazon Basics Folding Soft Dog Crate

This awesome soft-sided dog crate is anything but basic and offers a cost-effective way to transport your best friend from A to B.

Measuring 26 x 18 x 18 inches, this model is suitable for small breeds weighing between 12 and 25 pounds, but it also comes in 21- , 30-, 36-, and 42-inch versions for dogs of varying sizes . Made from durable polyester and PVC materials, it collapses down for quick and easy storage.

For added convenience, it also features accessory pockets on the top and the side for storing treats and other essentials, and with a top handle and shoulder strap, it is easy to carry your dog around in.

On the inside, the plush fleece-covered pet bed offers superior comfort on the road, and the multiple screened panels offer increased ventilation and an excellent opportunity for your pooch to keep a watchful eye on you.

• The crate is comfy, practical, and easy to use
• The mesh isn’t strong enough to handle dogs that like to chew

SlowTon Dog Booster Car Seat

If your dog thinks it’s human, this convenient and comfortable doggie car seat might be just the thing for it to enjoy.

Made with a reinforced metal frame, this crate provides a safe and comfy shelter for dogs who like to ride in cars, and the quick and easy installation makes it easy to fit and remove from your car seat as often as necessary.

The nonslip rubber bottom won’t slide around on the back seat of your car , and the seat belt tether will keep your dog secure. With mesh windows on 3 sides, this model offers excellent ventilation, and the front and top zipper doors let you load and unload your dog without a fuss.

With a washable and reusable pet pee pad on the bottom, your seats will stay clean and dry, even with the most anxious of doggies, and with the ability to fold up flat when not in use, this is a super-fancy and incredibly safe way for your dog to travel around with you.

• Pets are easy to secure and buckle in
• The locking system could be sturdier

Whether you are looking for an airplane carrier for your bichon frise or a cargo crate for your husky, there are lots of safe and comfortable ways to keep your best friend by your side.

From hard-sided crates to soft and flexible carriers, finding the right model for you and your dog will let you both enjoy many miles of adventures together.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i get my dog used to a travel crate.

Start slowly and be patient when getting your dog used to a travel crate. Leave the door open and line the crate with your dog’s favorite blanket and even an item of your clothing, so they feel comfortable. Use lots of treats and positive reinforcement to create a positive association.

Is it safe for a dog to travel in a crate?

Crates are an excellent and safe way to transport your dog in cars or while flying. Look for crates that have strong zippers, clasps, and sturdy doors.

What size travel crate does my dog need?

Measure your dog’s length from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail. Your travel dog crate should be no more than their length plus 6 inches. Also, make sure that your dog has enough room to sit, lie down, and turn around comfortably.

How do I choose a travel crate for my dog?

There are several things to consider when choosing a travel crate for your dog. Safety and comfort will be high on your list of criteria. It’s also important to get the correct size for your dog, and the weight will also be a key consideration, especially for air travel.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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Best Dog Crates For Car Travel In 2024 – Reviews & Top Picks

By Ashley Bates

Updated on Feb 15, 2024

When you’re traveling by car, you want your dog to be safe and comfortable, so you’ll need a good crate that’s sturdy and portable. There are many crates on the market, but not all of them will work well in your car.

How do you sort through the options and pick a great model?

Don’t worry, we’re here to help you shop. We tested all the top models and put together this list of this year’s 9 best dog crates for car travel.

Each model has a detailed review, comparing price, weight, type, portability, accessories, and warranty so that you can find your best option.

And if you want to know more about the features, take a look at our comprehensive buyer’s guide.

A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2024

The 9 best dog crates for car travel, 1. frisco travel cat carrier.

Introducing our favorite— Frisco Travel Safety Cat Carrier . This well-made design was explicitly created to fit onto the seat of a car. It has attachment pieces that sit around the seating to ensure a proper fit. It is a very stable carrier with mesh all the way around so that your pet can breeze and see the scenery. It is extremely well made, crafted with strong materials and efficient safety.

This particular dog carrier comes in two different sizes, medium and large. You can pick the one that suits your dog, making them comfortable on the road. This is an extra safe, secure, and durable design. It collapses easily for easy storage when it is not in use. The material also wipes down very easily in the event of any spills or accidents. Inside the carrier, you will find a completely machine-washable mat.

Ultimately, we absolutely loved the design and hope you will as much as we do! We feel it fits the needs of most travelers and your dog will appreciate it, too.

• Multiple sizes
• Works for larger dogs
• Secure and easy to clean

2. Petami Cat Travel Bag

The PetAmi Cat Travel Bag is ideal for all your adventures of wanderlust. If you were looking specifically for a carrier that was affordable and well worth the price but, look no further. We looked all around, and this carrier is the best travel size we could find for the money.

This travel carrier comes in multiple colors, including black, charcoal, gray, maybe, pink, purple, sea blue, and striped black. You can get those in medium or large, depending on the size of your dog. This carrier comes with dinner, compartments to store treats, and any supplies you might have. It also comes with two food containers, bags and collapsible bowls, making it ideal for travel.

The outer material is made of a very strong PVC water-repellent, leak-proof inner lining. The outer design is made of high-grade polyester, both very tough and sturdy. We love that you get so much with just this one purchase. If you plan to travel, travel bowls and water containers are likely hot on your list of needed supplies. With this bundle, you can cross off all the extras and just make one solid purchase.

• Made of strong PVC for optimal water resistance
• Travel bundle has food and water storage

3. Sport Pet Cat Seat Crate

Sport Pet Cat Seat Crate might be a little more expensive than some of the other options on our list, but hear us out. This luxury, cozy dog carrier can make your dog comfy from A to B. This design is made to fit securely in the backseat of your car or truck. The doors are very strong while the rest of the carrier is mesh, creating a cozy atmosphere during road trips.

A durable gate on both sides gives you easy access to your pad. The mesh panel allows for airflow and keeps your pet inside while they can see out and you can see them easily, too. This particular design is recommended for dogs under 25 pounds, but it’s extremely spacious for smaller pets if you so choose to get it. If you have cats as well, it’s good to alternate between the two for outings.

Because of the mesh design and polyester fabric, this particular carrier is best for crate-trained dogs. An accident in this carrier could lead to big messes in the vehicle.

• Good for dogs and cats
• Strong design
• Best for trained dogs

4. Pet Gear Signature Pet Carrier

Do you have a well-behaved little puppy on your hands? Maybe they’d love the Pet Gear Signature Pet Carrier . This particular design allows your dog to sit up inside, tearing out through the top portion. It is considered a two-in-one, as it is a car seat and pet carrier. You can also put them inside, fully zipping the top for restricted access.

We love the overall concept of this design as it allows your pet to see what’s going on in a spacious setting. Plus, it has handles so you can tote your pup around. If your little one has an accident, it comes equipped with a washable fleece pad cover on the inside. While it is a completely foolproof method, it can work for dogs that aren’t quite fully trained yet; be sure to watch the cues.

We love the all over efficiency of this design. After all, toting the carrier around outside of the car should be easy, too!

• Great for puppies
• Duffle style with two travel handles

5. EliteField Soft-sided Carrier Bag

The EliteField Soft-sided Carrier Bag will work for such a large variety of pets. It comes in multiple color choices and sizes so you can pick the one that suits your papa best. This particular bag comes in a duffel style with both a shoulder strap and handle.

You can get this tote in many stylish colors, including black, pink, gray, purple, sky, blue, and sapphire blue. This tote was definitely designed with smaller pets in mind. Even the largest duffel only holds up to 18 pounds.

Awesomely enough, this also comes with a seatbelt attachment to secure your pet while the vehicle is moving. But the upside is there is no assembly required, and the fleece pad inside is completely washable. So, you can keep it tidy and expect it to last many years.

• Multiple colors
• Comes with a seatbelt attachment
• No assembly required
• Not as well made as some others

6.  Petnation Port-A-Crate Dog Crate

The Petnation 614 Port-A-Crate is reasonably priced and portable with a fun design but has many less durable plastic components and not very sturdy mesh.

This 10.9-pound crate is surprisingly easy to transport , as it easily folds and buckles together. The fun bone-shaped windows are made of tightly-woven, honeycomb-patterned mesh, and there’s a solid steel frame. The crate can fit dogs up to 70 pounds , and it has front and top doors and rounded corners.

This crate doesn’t include a pad and can’t be attached to your car seats . The plastic pieces that hold up the frame break easily and the mesh isn’t very durable. Petnation doesn’t offer a warranty.

• Fairly-priced and very portable
• Fun bone-shaped mesh windows
• Fits dogs up to 70 pounds
• Steel frame with a fabric cover and rounded corners
• Top and front doors
• Folds and buckles for transportation
• No warranty
• Doesn’t attach to car seat
• No included pad
• Less durable plastic components
• Not very sturdy mesh

7. 2PET Foldable Travel Dog Crates

The 2PET Foldable Dog Crate  is a lightweight and reasonably-priced soft crate with less durable mesh and plastic zippers.

This 6.8-pound crate, which is sold in a range of sizes and colors, has a steel tube frame and a water-resistant 600D fabric cover that’s removable and machine-washable. It has a top handle that doubles as a seat belt attachment, and there are built-in water bottle and food container holders. The package includes a waterproof mat and a reversible, washable fleece pad.

We found that the mesh on this crate ripped easily, and the zippers broke quickly. This model feels less durable and somewhat cheaper overall. 2PET offers a 1-year warranty.

• Lightweight and reasonably-priced
• Range of sizes and colors
• Steel tube frame with top handle for seat belt connection
• Removable, machine-washable, and water-resistant 600D fabric cover
• Built-in water bottle and food container holders
• Includes waterproof mat and reversible fleece pad
• 1-year warranty
• Thin mesh rips easily
• Less durable plastic zippers
• Not very sturdy overall
• Related Read: Collapsible Dog Bowls for Travel 

8. Noz2Noz Indoor & Outdoor Dog Crates

Another option is the Noz2Noz 667 Soft Krater Indoor and Outdoor Crate , which is heavy and somewhat harder to set up, with less durable zippers.

This 12.4-pound light green crate, sold in a choice of five sizes, has a steel frame and a removable, machine-washable canvas cover. The frame locking mechanism, which has push-button tabs and couplers, may take you some extra time to master. The crate also has rounded corners and tight-weave mesh windows.

When we tested this crate, we found no chemical odor, but the plastic zippers felt somewhat cheaper and less durable. The mesh isn’t strong enough to withstand paws, and Noz2Noz doesn’t offer a warranty.

• Choice of five sizes
• Steel frame with removable, machine-washable fabric cover
• Push-button tabs and couplers for frame locking
• Rounded corners and mesh windows
• No chemical smell
• More difficult to use locking mechanism
• Less durable plastic zippers and weaker mesh
• Fairly heavy

9. EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate

EliteField’s 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate is very heavy and fairly pricey, with many included accessories and a good warranty.

At 17.6 pounds, this crate is very heavy. It comes in multiple sizes and quite a few colors and is designed to be wider and taller, giving your dog more space. With a steel tube frame, 600D cover, and hex mesh windows, it folds easily. There are three doors, on the top, front, and side, for easier access, and two accessory pockets. The package includes a padded shoulder strap, a removable fleece pad, and a carrying bag . There’s also a frame locking mechanism and convenient reinforced corners.

We found this crate to be not very well sewn, with seams that tear easily. The zippers and mesh aren’t durable enough to stand up to dogs. EliteField offers a good 2-year warranty.

• Multiple sizes and colors available
• Wider and taller for a spacious fit
• Steel tube frame, 600D cover, and hex mesh windows
• Three doors for easy access
• Reinforced corners and frame locking mechanism
• Includes padded shoulder strap, carrying bag, and fleece pad
• 2-year warranty
• Very heavy and somewhat expensive
• Less sturdy seams, zippers, and mesh

Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Dog Crate for Car Travel

Now that you’ve taken a look at our list of the nine best car crates, it’s time to choose. But which will work best for you and your dog? Keep reading for our quick guide to your options.

Hard or Soft?

The first big decision is whether to buy a hard crate or a fabric crate. Fabric crates, which typically have hard steel or plastic frames with fabric covers, are more portable, fold for simpler carrying, and often weighing less overall. These crates work best with well-trained dogs that don’t chew or scratch.

If you have a puppy or a high-energy dog, you may prefer a hard crate. These crates generally have hard plastic sides and steel wire doors and are often more durable, better withstanding your dog’s scratching and chewing. In exchange for that durability, these bulkier crates may be harder to carry.

Car Attachments

If you’re taking your dog crate in the car, you may want to be able to attach it to the seat, as you would a child car seat. Secure attachments will keep your crate from moving when you brake or accelerate, keeping your dog steady. You may want to look for seat belt and headrest attachments, like sturdy handles and loops.

Before you purchase a dog crate, you’ll want to consider the size of your dog. You may want to measure your dog and compare the numbers to each model’s dimensions. Keep in mind that your dog will be more comfortable with extra space to move around.

Accessories

Are you interested in a range of included accessories, or do you just want the crate? Dog crates may come with washable fleece pads, waterproof liners, padded shoulder straps, or food and water bowls.

• Other useful tools: Car Clean Up Made Easy with the Best Car Vacuums

Would you like your investment protected by a good warranty? Many of the models we reviewed come with warranties, ranging from 30 days to multiple years. You may also want to pay attention to the details of your model’s warranty, as it may cover only some components.

We can’t recommend the Frisco Travel Safety Cat Carrier enough if you really want the best value possible. It is a wonderful design that is explicitly created to fit on the backseat of any car or truck. We think it’s a pretty good price for the quality too.

If you want to save as much money as possible, but still want a quality product, we highly recommend PetAmi Cat Travel Bag . Not only will you get a very sturdy, durable carrier, you will also get a food bowl, storage containers and collapsible water dishes. This is an excellent bundle for The novice traveler.

Don’t forget our premium choice– Sport Pet Cat Seat Crate . This carrier is spacious, safe, and comfortably sits on most back seats. It comes highly well-made with double-sided entry points. Keep in mind, there are weight requirements on this to make sure that your dog falls within these parameters.

Hopefully, our reviews helped you find the carrier that best suits your travel needs.

• How To Travel With Your Dog
• Best Small Dog Crates
• Best Dog Car Seat Covers
• Best Dog Crates with Dividers

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Top 7 Best Dog Crates and Carriers for Car Travel | Reviews – Comparisons

February 25, 2021 //  by  Coral //   4 Comments

If you travel with your dog in the car, you more than likely know the hassle of trying to get your dog to sit still when you are driving. Dogs may pace around, have trouble standing find themselves falling in between seats, or even worse, trying to take your lap over while you are in traffic. While you may want to take your pooch to different places, it is important to make sure they have a safe trip in the car, while still enjoying the ride. There are a lot of options to pick from when introducing safety measures into your car, so it is easy to get overwhelmed by choices. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about having a safe trip with your dog, from crates, car harnesses, and general tips to get them to their destination, so get ready to check out the best dog crates for car travel and general transportation.

• Best Overall: K&H Pet Products Travel Safety Carrier
• Best for Puppies: Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed and Carrier
• Best Soft-sided Travel Carrier: Pet Gear Carrier & Car Seat
• Best for Both Airline and Car Travel:   Petmate Sky Portable Dog Crate Kennel
• MidWest Side-by-Side Double Door SUV Dog Crate
• A4Pet Soft Collapsible Dog Crate and Kennel
• Best Crash Tested Heavy Duty Dog Cage for Car: 4×4 North America

If you have not decided which one is best for your need yet, take a chance to see our detailed comparison table below:

READ MORE: Top 14 Best Dog Ramps and Stairs for Car, SUVs, and Trucks

• What Are My Choices?

If you are going to use a travel crate, which is a great idea for smaller and medium-sized dogs, sizing is important. Like many other aspects of sizing your dog, the weight matters less than the height and length. A thirty-pound dog can be shorter than a twenty-pound dog, depending on the breed and age. A good rule of thumb for any dog or animal is to allow them to both stand-up and turn around comfortably in their crate. Both plastic and wire crates should have a liner, bed or even a towel along the bottom of them to prevent sliding or pain. Once you have gotten the height and length of your dog, you can find the dimensions of a crate that will suit your needs. You do not want to oversize the crate either, as smaller dogs may attempt to relieve themselves in one side if they can get far away enough from it. Finally, make sure that you have each animal in its own crate. Unless you are transporting very small dogs, such as a litter of puppies, you never want to have dogs sharing a crate during travel due to space limitations and stress.

If you will be removing the crate from the vehicle regularly, a wire crate can be an excellent choice. As these crates fold in and collapse easily for storage, it is easy to remove them from a car when you are done. They also can be tied down easily through the wires to secure them into place. If the crate will remain in the vehicle, a solid-sided plastic crate can be useful. These crates come with spots to tie them in place, and the solid crate gives your dog a safe, secure feeling inside of their enclosed space. Either of these types can be easily sized with a pad or a bed to make the crate more comfortable for the dog inside. For smaller dogs, soft-sided crates are an option, but they are more difficult to keep in place due to their more malleable materials. Soft-sided crates typically do not come for pets that are 25 pounds or more and are not as durable as hard-sided crates. Lastly, car harnesses that attach the dog directly to a seatbelt are a choice, and while they are incredibly easy to set up simply by clicking them in place, they can be less reliable in a crash or accident. There are many different choices, so keep reading below to see what may be best for you.

Do you have a small dog breed like a Dachshund, and you don’t want to have to put them in a crate? Instead of using a crate, visit my friend Holly’s blog at dachworld.com to find the top 10 best dog car seats for smaller breed dogs .

Best Dog Crates and Carriers Car Travel (From 15 lbs. to 125 lbs.)

• 1. Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed and Carrier

For those with a new puppy or a nervous small dog, a cozy and secure travel crate can help make travel fun and easy. This little crate also comes with a comfortable shoulder strap so that you can go from car to your destination with ease. It is important to socialize your young puppy, but you don’t want to expose her to anything that other dogs might carry until she has finished with her vaccinations, so a convenient carrier like this is important to let you bring puppy along while keeping her safe from contagious disease.

The domed top can be removed, turning the carrier into a comfortable bed for your dog . This can greatly reduce the stress of traveling since your dog will already be accustomed to the crate as a bed.

This carrier is made of durable luggage-grade nylon outside and is ultra-plush polyester inside. A padded shoulder strap and handle are included so that you can easily carry your pup however you like. The bedding that comes with this crate is washable, and the foam liner is water-resistant, so you know you will have this crate until your pup is grown and much longer.

• Crash-Tested Passed
• Natural round shape will entice your pet to enjoy sleeping in it
• Domed screen top can be removed so that your dog can enjoy it as a normal bed
• Durable fabric in a range of fun colors
• Washable bedding and water-resistant liner
• Straps into any car’s seat belt
• Small size is very small, too small for most dogs, so many puppies will outgrow it
• Not a lot of ventilation

• 2. Pet Gear Carrier & Car Seat for Cats and Dogs

The Pet Gear Carrier & Car Seat is a good example of your typical soft-sided travel crate. It is great for smaller dogs and cats, and can be secured via seat belt to keep it in place. While a more frantic dog may not do well in this carrier, new puppies and calmer dogs will find themselves comfortable and cozy inside of it.

• Easy transportation
• Attaches to seat belts
• Comfortable and secure
• Soft-sided means less durable
• Sharp teeth or claws can tear mesh
• Tougher to clean
• 3. K&H Pet Products Travel Safety Carrier

The entire face is mesh, so that your dog will have an unhindered view and a great breeze. You can easily fold this carrier flat so that storing and transporting the carrier without your pet is a breeze. There are multiple entries, allowing for versatile use.

A one-year warranty can make you feel good about your decision to purchase this carrier. While it isn’t heavy-duty enough to stand up to a very destructive dog, this is a secure carrier that is appropriate for the average family pet.

Choose between three sizes to get the ideal sized carrier for your pet. The bottom pad of this carrier can be removed, making cleanup after messes easier.

• Full mesh front gives your dog plenty of visibility as well as lots of airflows
• Clip in place using your seat belt and the separate neck strap
• Easily washable removable bottom
• One year limited warranty
• Large size barely fits in the average back seat
• Top bar is fragile
• Top strap is too short for some cars

• 4. Petmate Sky Portable Airline Approved Travel Dog Crate Kennel

The Petmate Sky Kennel is a great example of your standard hard-sided kennel. With good ventilation, the ability to tie it down in a car, and solid construction, this crate is a fantastic choice for medium-sized dogs. The vents on the side are covered in a thicker metal, and allow for more air to come in with less chance of escape. The Sky Kennel is also recommended for travel on planes, either with you or in a luggage area.

• Durable construction
• Easy to assemble
• Good ventilation
• Fits well into most cars
• Cannot be broken down easily
• Requires a bed or pad to be comfortable for the dog
• Heavier construction makes it tougher to move
• 5. MidWest Side-by-Side Double Door SUV Dog Crate

If you have an SUV or van that opens from the back and dogs that aren’t always clean when they get in the car, you may want a dog crate that lets you load your dogs directly into the back. This effective crate is designed to fit two crates in the back of your vehicle so that two dogs can travel in comfort and safety, while enjoying the view out the back.

This is a collapsible wire crate that can be conveniently stored when not in use. You can even collapse the crates in the back and store your groceries and other stuff on top of them when you aren’t transporting your dog.

There is both front and rear door access, so that you can load your dog in this crate from the back when your dog is dirty and let her out from the front if you are camping in your van and want to share the space with your pup.

The wire design allows plenty of airflow and won’t rust, due to the durable e-coat. A plastic pan is included as well for easy cleanup.

• Lets you load dogs from front or back
• Sized to fit two in the back of your van or SUV
• Includes plastic pan and carrying handle
• One year manufacturer’s warranty

 Cons:

• Not crash rated
• Won’t handle a severely destructive dog
• Doesn’t contain mess as well as some other crates
• 6. A4Pet Soft Collapsible Dog Crate and Kennel for Indoor or Travel Use

One of the few large soft-sided crates, this travel crate fits into the back of most SUVs or hatchbacks. It pops up and folds out quickly, and the durable outside makes it suitable for camping or rougher environments. The stronger material makes it good for rougher dogs or puppies who may be teething, and it has both a side and a top entrance for ease of use.

• One of the few larger soft crates
• Great for traveling in a car
• Can be used in home or outside
• Easy to clean and put away
• Very low top, forcing larger dogs to lay down
• Not as sturdy in a crash
• Not suited for standard cars
• 7. 4×4 North America Variocage Single Crash Tested Heavy Duty Dog Cage

The Variocage is more of a machine than just a crate. Although it may have a slightly off-putting appearance, this powerful crate is designed to take the harshest punishment imaginable without a scratch. With hydraulic locks, thick metal bars, and even an emergency escape hatch, this crate is an impressive bit of handiwork. It has been proven sturdy in all different types of crash tests and comes in sizes for any size dog.

• Wildly durable
• Sized for any animal
• Made for all types of travel
• Wildly heavy
• Very expensive compared to others
• Hard to move once set up

Why Do Dogs Need To Be Secured In The Car?

Most dogs love to ride in the car. The wind rushing by carries all kinds of interesting smells that your dog just can’t take in quickly enough, while every stop gives your dog a chance to take in an interesting scene. Add to this the fact that usually going in the car means your dog is going to a fun destination, and it makes perfect sense that being in the car would be a very exciting thing for your dog.

Why not just let your dog enjoy the run of the backseat, taking in the sites from every angle she can? Well, if you’ve ever had this experience, you probably know that there are good reasons to contain your dog in the car.

• Mess and Wear and Tear

Your dog will do a lot of damage to your car seat, doors, and windows over the years. Your dog will dig her nails into the upholstery when the car moves and stops, scratching or even piercing it. whether you have leather or fabric upholstery, it will show damage soon enough.

If your dog tends to drool, which many dogs do as they get excited and pant in the car, you will soon have white gunk on your windows and the door of your car. The dried on drool is very difficult to clean, and can affect the functioning of window controls, locks, etc.

• Distraction and Discomfort

Your dog can distract you as she jumps around in the back of the car, and if she jumps into the front seat, she can create a dangerous situation for herself, you, and everyone else on the road. Even if your dog is generally very calm in the car, an unexpected new site or sound may cause her to behave uncharacteristically.

If you have anyone else in your car, they may not appreciate your dog jumping all over their laps to get the best angle on whatever is going on outside of the window. Your dog can quickly turn a pleasant car ride into a very uncomfortable one for your guests. While they may be nice enough to not say anything about it, they may not want to go with you and your dog on your next outing.

Your dog’s safety is in jeopardy when she is not strapped into your car in some way. If you were to get into an accident, your dog would likely be thrown from the vehicle. Secured safely in a crate or harness, however, your dog will stay in the car in the case of a collision. A crate can also offer some protection from impact and debris. You love your dog, and you don’t want to take the risk that she could be injured or killed while you remain safely in your seat, held in by your seatbelt.

• Harness Vs. Crate – Which is Best?

There is more than one way to keep your dog firmly in one spot. Harnesses offer your dog more freedom, acting more or less as seat belt attachments for your dog. Harnesses do nothing for your upholstery, windows, or door. If you keep your dog firmly in a middle seat you may be able to prevent drooling on the windows and doors, but this won’t protect the upholstery, and your dog may be able to reach into the front seat.

If you get into an accident, a harness can hold your dog in place and offers as good of protection as a crate does as far as keeping your dog in the car. If the harness isn’t fit well, it is possible that it could hurt your dog, but a well-fitted harness should safely keep your dog in the seat.

For most dogs, a crate offers a good compromise between safely containing your dog and letting her enjoy the ride. A crate lets your dog brace herself against comfortable padding that offers good traction. Your dog will feel more secure, and your upholstery will be saved.

All car crates on this list offer good ventilation so that your dog can still enjoy the smells of the breeze while keeping heads and bodies safely in the car and drool off of your doors and windows.

• Quite a Few Choices, So Which To Take?

Depending on your dog, you will want to pick a crate that best suits your needs. For a smaller dog, pick a soft-sided crate or a car seat that fit them better. For a larger, stronger dog, picking a hard-sided or wire crate is a better choice. All of the crates listed in this article are some of the best of their types, and there should be a choice for any dog on the list. Always remember to add beds, pads, or calming aids when picking a crate, and measure your dog first before trying to get them sized for a crate. If you are still unsure, try to get a crate that you know your dog can stand up and turn around in, as previously stated, and make sure that it is not oversized for your dog, either. Hopefully, this article will give you all the insight you need on which dog crate will be the best for you and your dog.

Hi, I'm DOG. Humans say all kinds of things about me: what I should and should not be allowed to do, what is good for me, what training is most effective, how I should play with my friends and my human family. I've got to tell you, I love humans, but sometimes they can be really confusing! On this site, I help Coral break down some of what humans say about me so that you and the DOG in your life will be happy and healthy together.

Reader Interactions

May 21, 2019 at 8:11 PM

I would like to put a small dog kennel Attaching to the back Oh my friends seats in a minivan. Perhaps 30 inches high 20 inches deep and up to 48 inches wide. 42 small dogs 20 pounds each

July 27, 2019 at 10:51 AM

I got my dog a travel crate yesterday. She’s used to a wire see through crate indoors. I got her one of the hard shell type that you can unscrew the top. She won’t even get in it. Help!

March 20, 2020 at 10:14 AM

This info was very helpful in helping me decide how to travel long-distance with my cats! I want a double door travel cage with separation (two cats) like in the very top picture (on the right) but cannot find it! Vidaxl and variocage have the double door cages but I don’t see a divider in their pix! Where is that product?

October 4, 2020 at 12:53 AM

This leaves me confused. What keeps my 15 pound dog the safest? A crate or a harness? I’ve read several articles but never feel I get a definitive answer. I like crates, but I don’t know which one can be most safely locked into seatbelt without falling apart. Help!

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How to drive safely with a dog: Shop crash-tested harnesses, crates and more

If you have a pet, you know how difficult it is to leave your favorite companion at home. Fortunately, there are many reasons to bring your furry friend along on a road trip, whether you’re embarking on a week-long camping adventure or heading to the beach during the warmer months. But did you know there are several safety precautions to consider whenever you travel with your dog? These include using appropriate restraints in the car, packing up-to-date vaccination records and ensuring you have essentials like food , water bowls and waste bags on hand. 

If you’re planning on taking your dog along for a car ride but don’t know where to start, we spoke to veterinarians and pet safety experts about the best ways to keep your dog safe. We also rounded up expert-recommended and crash-tested crates, carriers and safety harnesses.

SKIP AHEAD Best crash-tested carriers | Best crash-tested crates | Best crash-tested harnesses | What kind of car restraint is best for your dog? | How to safely travel with your dog

Our top picks

• Best carrier: Away Travel Carrier 
• Best crate: Gunner Kennel G1
• Best travel harness: Sleepypod Click-It Terrain

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How we picked the best crates, carriers and harnesses.

We kept the following in mind while picking safe travel restraints for dogs, based on expert guidance:  

• Crash-tested: Look for travel enclosures that have undergone crash testing by the Center for Pet Safety , a registered nonprofit and advocacy organization that crash tests car restraints and containment devices, according to Wendy Hauser , veterinarian and special advisor to ASPCA Pet Health Insurance. “The pet products industry is highly unregulated and many brands subjectively ‘pass’ their products if they test them in the lab,” says CPS founder Lindsey Wolko. This can give pet owners a false sense of security. “Most carriers on the market only offer distraction prevention, which is important, but in a crash, they may not perform as you would expect them to,” she says.
• Type of car restraint: There are four main types of restraints: carriers, crates, harnesses and booster seats. Carriers and crates, especially hard-sided options, are safest because they keep your pet secure using your car’s seat belt system or built-in anchors, according to our experts. Travel harnesses that fit properly can keep your dog securely attached to a seat belt strap but won’t leave them feeling trapped as they would in an enclosed carrier. Booster seats generally aren’t recommended by our experts, who note that you should only use one in conjunction with a travel harness and never attach it to the vehicle’s seat belt system, center console or seat.
• Size and weight of your pet: Check the weight and size guidelines of the dog carrier, harness or car seat to make sure it’ll fit your pet securely and comfortably, according to our experts. If a harness or seat is too big, they may be able to wriggle out during the ride, creating a distracting and dangerous situation.

The best crash-tested carriers, crates and harnesses for dogs

To help you determine which products are safest for your companion, we’ve compiled the safety products and containment devices that are crash test-certified by the CPS , which put products through rigorous testing to determine the strength and effectiveness of latches, zippers, stitching and built-in reinforcements.

Best crash-tested carriers

Away travel carrier.

This option from the popular travel brand Away is designed for both car and airline travel and won a Select Best for Your Pet award for best overall travel carrier. It’s  made from water-resistant nylon and has latches on the side that securely fasten to a car’s seat belt system, according to the brand. It has top and side openings and comes with machine-washable sherpa bedding on the inside to help your pet feel comfortable. It also has multiple pockets to keep your belongings secure and the front entry point has fully see-through mesh (if you want to cover the mesh, it includes a piece of fabric that rolls down). The Away carrier comes in two colors — black and blue — and you can personalize it with your initials for an additional $35.

Pet weight: Up to 18 lbs | Water-resistant: Yes | Washable: Yes, bedding | Dimensions : 18.7 in. L x 10.8 in. W x 10.75 in. H

Away Pet Carrier

Diggs passenger travel carrier.

This travel carrier from Select staff-favorite brand Diggs has custom seat belt clips and a buckle strap to keep your dog secure during car travel. It’s recommended for dogs weighing up to 18 pounds (the brand does offer an inflatable travel crate for larger dogs weighing up to 80 pounds). The carrier has a built-in bed and pee pad, and it has both front and side openings that make it easier for your pet to get in and out of the carrier, according to the brand. It also has three outer pockets and a detachable cross-body strap. It comes in four colors: navy, slate gray , blush pink and charcoal gray .

Pet weight: Up to 18 lbs | Water-resistant: N/A | Washable: N/A | Dimensions: 20 in. L x 10.8 in. W x 11.5 in. H

Paravel Cabana Carrier

The Cabana Carrier is designed from Paravel’s EcoCraft canvas, which is made of 38 recycled plastic bottles, according to the brand. It has a washable fleece lining, multiple pockets, a trolley sleeve so it can attach to your suitcase and mesh panels to encourage airflow inside. It also folds down completely, so it’s easy to store away when you aren’t using it.

Pet weight: Up to 20 lbs | Water-resistant: Yes | Washable: Yes, fleece lining | Dimensions: 11 in. L x 11 in. W x 20.5 in. H

Sleepypod Atom

The Sleepypod Atom is designed for smaller pets and works for both vehicle and airline travel (although experts recommend looking at your airline’s carrier size requirements before boarding). This carrier weighs only 3.4 pounds and has a buckle on both sides that can secure it to the seat belt in the rear seat of the vehicle. The included plush bedding on the inside is also removable and machine-washable. 

Pet weight: Up to 12 lbs | Water-resistant: N/A | Washable: Yes, bedding | Dimensions: 17 in. L x 8.5 in. W x 10.5 in. H

Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed

The original Sleepypod includes velcro positioning points to secure a seat belt, removable and machine-washable interior bedding and mesh panels for breathability. “The bottom of the carrier can be used as a bed inside the home, making acclimation training easier for the pet,” says Wolko. It’s also offered in a mini size , which is certified for pets 7 pounds and under and is considered an appropriate size for several airlines.

Pet weight: Up to 15 lbs | Water-resistant: N/A | Washable: Yes, bedding | Dimensions: 17 in. L x 8.5 in. W x 10.5 in. H  

Best crash-tested crates

Gunner kennel g1.

This crate earned a 5-star safety rating from the CPS in both the crate and carrier-class — it’s the only product that has earned a dual certification, says Wolko. It has double-wall construction that provides impact protection for your pet, according to the brand. It also has a reversible door design that lets you open the crate from either side, and the door is reinforced with an aluminum frame that can keep your dog safely contained in case of a car crash, according to Gunner. It comes in four sizes: small, medium, intermediate and large. Though the crate doesn’t provide exact size and weight guidelines for dogs, the brand does offer a size guide that gives recommendations based on your dog’s weight and length and the size of your vehicle.

Pet weight: Varies based on crate size | Water-resistant: Yes | Washable: Yes, exterior | Dimensions: 24.5 in. L x 18.625 in. W x 19 in. H (small), 29.5 in. L x 20.5 in. W x 23.5 in. H (medium), 34 in. L x 23 in. W x 28.5 in. H (intermediate), 40.25 in. L x 28 in. W x 33.25 in. H (large) 

Gunner G1 Kennel

Lucky kennel.

The Lucky Kennel can be a worthwhile option if you’re traveling with larger dogs. It has reversible doors and ventilation holes to keep air flowing on hot days, and it comes in two sizes (intermediate and large). If you have more than one pet, you can stack multiple Lucky Kennels on top of each other. The brand also offers a comfort pad that fits inside the crate and gives your dog a layer of cushion for the ride.

Pet weight: Up to 75 lbs (intermediate) and 110 lbs (large) | Water-resistant: N/A | Washable: N/A | Dimensions: 32.5 in. L x 22.5 in. W x 24.5 in. H (intermediate), 38 in. L x 24 in. W x 29 in. H (large)

Rock Creek Aluminum Dog Crate

This durable crate has an aluminum metal frame and comes in four sizes: medium, large, XL and XXL. It has a lockable door latch and secondary latches to prevent dogs from escaping, according to the brand. You can stack multiple of these crates on top of each other, and it comes in seven colors, including white, blue , pink and green . For dogs with crate anxiety who might escape, the brand also offers a door guard to add another layer of protection. Though the brand does not provide specific weight requirements for each size, Rock Creek does offer a size guide with pet height recommendations. Keep in mind this is the heaviest option on our list, weighing 38 pounds for the medium size and 79 pounds for the XXL size. 

Pet weight: Varies based on crate size and pet height | Water-resistant: N/A | Washable: N/A | Dimensions: 30.5 in. L x 20 in. W x 22.5 in. H (medium), 36.5 in. L x 23.5 in. W x 27.75 in. H (large), 42.5 in. L x 28.5 in. W x 32.5 in. H (XL), 48 in. L x 32.25 in. W x 35 in. H (XXL)

Best crash-tested harnesses

Sleepypod click-it terrain plus.

This safety harness from Sleepypod is certified crash-tested by the CPS for dogs up to 110 pounds and has a three-point design, which secures your dog’s torso to the seat using your car’s seat belt system. It also has shock-absorbing sleeves and a padded vest for additional security and comfort, according to the brand. While it’s designed for car safety, it also doubles as a walking harness. It comes in four sizes ranging from small to XL . Keep in mind that Sleepypod harnesses may not provide a safe or proper fit for certain breeds like Greyhounds, Whippets, Salukis, Afghan Hounds and Borzoi due to their unique body types, according to the brand.

Pet weight: From 18 lbs up to 110 lbs | Water-resistant: N/A | Washable: N/A | Chest size: 20.5-25.5 in.(small), 25.5-28 in. (medium), 28-31 in. (large), 31-41.5 in. (XL)

Sleepypod Click-It Sport Plus

Lightweight and designed for everyday use, the Sleepypod Click-It Sport also passed the CPS crash test for dogs up to 90 pounds. Like the Click-It Terrain, this option comes in four sizes — small, medium , large and XL — and has three points of contact to attach to the seat belt and reduce forward and side-to-side movement, according to the brand. It also doubles as a walking harness and has a padded vest with reflective strips to help you see your pup better at night.

Pet weight: From 18 lbs up to 90 lbs | Water-resistant: N/A | Washable: N/A | Chest size: 16.5-22 in.(small), 22.5-28 in. (medium), 28.5-34 in. (large), 34.5-40 in. (XL)

Other dog travel essentials

Kong water bottle.

A travel water bottle to ensure your dog is getting ample water during road trips is always important, especially during hot weather and long trips, according to our experts. The Kong Water Bottle is a Select Best for Your Pet award winner thanks to its lid which acts as a bowl. Its small handle and shape made it easy to pour, according to Select social commerce editor Sadhana Daruvuri, who uses this bottle to keep her dog Bandit hydrated while on the go. The bottle is made of stainless steel and it comes in two sizes and four colors.

Kurgo First Aid Kit for Dogs & Cats

Wolko recommends taking a pet-friendly first aid kit while traveling in case of an emergency. This 50-piece option includes cotton swabs, antiseptic towelettes, gauze pads, sting relief pads and more, all inside a functional multi-compartment pack. In addition to a first aid kit, our experts recommend researching an emergency vet at your destination and having their contact number handy.

Kurgo First Aid Kit for Dogs & Cats

Earth rated dog poop bags.

No matter where you travel with your dog, waste bags are an essential item to take to avoid leaving messes behind. I use this option from Earth Rated for my dog Bella every time we come back from walks, and I love that they’re durable and don’t rip when I’m wiping the rougher parts of her paws. The bags come in either a 120-pack or a 270-pack, and you can choose to purchase either fragrance-free or lavender-scented bags. These bags block odors and prevent leaking, according to the brand.

Dog by Dr. Lisa Wipes

Pet wipes can serve multiple purposes on a trip, from cleaning up dog-related messes to wiping their paws or faces whenever they get dirty. One of our favorite at-home grooming products , these wipes include plant-based ingredients like aloe vera, cucumber extract and coconut to moisturize and soothe the skin, according to the brand. They’re also a Select staff favorite: I use them to wipe Bella’s paws every time we come home from a walk, and Select associate updates editor Zoe Malin says they smell great and are super gentle, so they don’t irritate her dog Chance’s sensitive skin.

select Spy on your dogs and cats while you're gone with these pet cameras

What kind of car restraint is best for your dog.

Much like humans wearing seat belts in case of a crash, dogs should be properly strapped into a crash-tested restraint, whether that’s an enclosed pet carrier or a travel safety harness. This not only reduces the chance of serious injury to your dog during an accident but can also keep them from escaping inside the car and distracting the driver. “Dogs often don’t realize the dangers of interfering with a driver, so many may try to climb on the driver or get in their lap — especially if they are anxious,” says Dr. Wendy Mandese , a veterinarian and clinical associate professor at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine.

There are four main types of car restraints for pets: carriers, crates, travel harnesses and car seats or boosters. Below, we list the differences between each type and how to use them properly. Though these all have their unique pros and cons, our experts agree that they should be independently crash-tested by the CPS to make sure it’s safe outside of brand claims.

Pet carriers and crates

Carriers are covered enclosures that can be strapped in using a seat belt or ISOFIX/LATCH anchors , which are connected to the vehicle’s seat and designed for installing children’s car seats without using a seat belt. “There are two types of carriers: those that only prevent distraction and those that offer crash protection,” says Wolko. You can prevent this by keeping carriers connected to the seat and closed while the car is moving. 

Crates, on the other hand, are typically larger and heavier than carriers. “Crash protection crates have anchor straps that are used to secure the kennel to the vehicle via the available connections in the cargo area,” says Wolko. 

“Carriers and crates are the preferred options for safe travel because they confine the pet,” says Dr. Christina Carlo , a veterinarian and the medical director at VCA Avondale Veterinary Hospital. Hard-sided crates and carriers specifically are the safest option for your pet because they provide the most protection against impact, according to Dr. Dana Varble , chief veterinary officer at the North American Veterinary Community.

While carriers usually go in the back seat, crates typically go in the cargo area of an SUV. “They’re typically larger in size and heavier, [and] therefore they should not be secured on the rear seat of the vehicle,” said Wolko. 

Like all other pet travel products, carriers and crates should be independently crash-tested by the CPS to ensure safety outside of brand claims.

Travel harnesses

Travel harnesses connect to the vehicle’s seat belt system, which can safely keep your pet secured in your car. “Harnesses with seat belt clips are a great choice as they allow some freedom for your pet to sit up or lay down and experience the fun of a car ride without the risk of being loose,” says Varble. Make sure the harness properly fits your dog — it shouldn’t feel loose and it should fit snugly on their body and chest — and has a handle that can securely attach to a seat belt strap, says Carlo. And just like crates and carriers, these harnesses need to be CPS crash-tested to ensure they meet safety standards.

Car seats or booster seats

Car seats serve as open-air suspended seats or booster seats, and some can be anchored by the seat belt. Others may look like a catcher’s mitt.

Because car seats are typically open, they can serve as a good way to let your dog look out of the window and reduce car sickness, which is common in puppies, according to Mandese. You should always pair a car seat with a safety harness to ensure your dog is secure and prevent them from flying out of their seat in case of a crash.

However, there are a few safety concerns surrounding car seats, and neither our experts nor CPS recommend them to pet owners. Many use the vehicle’s seat belt system to stay secure, but you should only use this system to secure your dog’s travel harness, according to Wolko. 

If you do use a booster seat, it should be in conjunction with a travel harness, which reduces the risk of injury in case of a crash since it anchors them down. “Boosters are not safe in an accident because they are open and the only strap controlling the pet is usually small and connected to a collar around the neck unless the pet is wearing a harness,” says Carlo. You should also only secure the seat using the car’s ISOFIX/LATCH anchors. “This will allow the seat belt system to be used independently to secure the harness the pet will need to wear,” Wolko says.

Some car seats may require you to connect them directly to the seat, but these connections are usually very weak and will not prevent injury, according to Wolko. Other pet travel seats connect to the console between the driver and passenger seats, which is both unsteady and unsafe, she says. You should also opt for a rear-facing car seat and avoid forward-facing options since your pet can fly out during a crash, according to Dr. Kristen Nelson , a veterinarian and author of “ Coated With Fur: A Vet’s Life .”

How to safely travel with your dog

Though car restraints may vary in type and effectiveness, one thing remains consistent among all of our experts: You should never place pets and carriers, harnesses, car seats or any other restraint in the front seat of your car because the airbags can seriously hurt your pet. You should securely place restraints and enclosures in the rear seat or the cargo area of the vehicle, according to Nelson.

Never let your dog ride in the back of an open truck because it can lead to severe injuries, and you should avoid letting your dog ride with their head sticking out of an open window since that can lead to eye injuries from road debris, according to Mandese. 

When it comes to keeping your dog secure, tightening seat belts is key. “The most common mistake is leaving the seat belts loose to make the pet more comfortable,” says Nelson. “Unfortunately, the extra room lets them fly during a crash.” However, you should never connect the internal tether of the carrier or the seat belt to your pet’s collar since it can result in neck fractures or airway damage if you were to brake suddenly, says Mandese.

Meet our experts

At Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

• Wendy Hauser is a veterinarian and the founder of Peak Veterinary Consulting . She is also the special advisor to ASPCA Pet Health Insurance.
• Lindsey Wolko is the founder of the Center for Pet Safety , a registered nonprofit and advocacy organization that crash-tests car restraints and containment devices for pets.
• Dr. Wendy Mandese is a veterinarian and clinical associate professor at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine.
• Dr. Christina Carlo is a veterinarian and the medical director at VCA Avondale Veterinary Hospital.
• Dr. Dana Varble is the chief veterinary officer at the North American Veterinary Community.
• Dr. Kristen Nelson is a veterinarian and author of “Coated With Fur: A Vet’s Life.”

Why trust Select?

Mili Godio is an editor at Select who covers a variety of pet topics, including dog food , beds , treats , toys and more. For this article, Godio spoke to six veterinarians and pet safety experts about how to safely travel in a car with your dog. She also compiled their recommendations for the best crash-tested carriers, crates and harnesses to consider and researched dozens of options on the market based on the experts’ guidance.

Catch up on Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

Mili Godio is an updates editor for Select on NBC News.

Best Dog Crates For Cars: Protect Your Dog With These Crates & Carriers

Are you considering a new dog crate or carrier to keep your dog safe on road trips? Or maybe you need a secure carrier for air travel? Check out our favorite options and compare brands by analyzing safety, durability, cost, travel type, and more.

Last Updated: April 10, 2024 | 14 min read

When you buy something through one of the links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Are you looking for the best dog crate for your car? There are many options in every price range to help protect your furry friend. Whether traveling, moving, or taking a 20-minute trip to the dog park, driving with your dog in the car can sometimes be a bit of a hassle. It may be fun to allow your dog to roam freely about the interior of your car. But that doesn’t mean it’s safe.

There are even crash-tested dog crates you can get for your vehicle. Unfortunately, crash-test-approved crates are often more expensive and outside of many pet parents’ budgets . However, investing in a crate or carrier to keep your dog safe on the road is something dog owners should consider. This is especially true if you take frequent road trips or dog park visits.

Ultimately, your dog crate purchase is up to you . You know what your dog’s needs are and what can fit inside your vehicle and budget best. Our buying guide helps you choose the best car dog crate for your favorite canine.

At A Glance: Our Favorite Car Carriers & Crates

Carlson Collapsible Wire Crate

Crash-Tested

VarioCage Dog Crate

Great For Small Dogs

Sleepypod Mobile Carrier

Note: Clicking the above links will take you to a company’s website, Chewy.com, or Amazon.com, where you can get additional product information and customer reviews. If you make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

The Benefits Of Using A Car Crate

It might be fun to see how happy your pup gets with his head hanging out of an open car window. There are many reasons you should actually be using a crate in your car instead. Getting in any collision can be difficult enough for a human that’s fully buckled into their seat. It’s even more dangerous for a dog that’s been allowed to wander about the car unrestrained.

There are also benefits outside of safety that you’ll get by using a carrier or crate in your car. Some of these may or may not apply to you based on the size of your dog. Let’s take a look at how a crate can be beneficial when driving around town with your furry friend.

Anyone who owns a dog knows how quickly your personal items can be ruined in their presence. The same goes for your car. Whether it’s intentional bad behavior or accidental, there’s a good chance that your dog will eventually create a mess in your car. They scratch and bite through the fabric of your seats. They can also get into things you’d prefer they leave alone.

Additionally, whatever dirt, mud, and mess are on their paws will be all over your car. Dogs also tend to drool over everything . This means you will scrub dried dog spit from your seats after your long drive. Their noses create smudges on your window, and their shedding fur sticks to your upholstery.

There’s also the chance your dog has an accident. Double the possibility if you have a long car ride ahead. Even potty-trained dogs can only hold it for so long. On a long drive, you may not realize how much time has passed since you last stopped to let them out. Without a crate, that accident ends up – you guessed it – right on your seat or floor.

Avoiding Distractions

Some dogs behave perfectly during car rides. They look out the window the whole time or curl into a ball and go to sleep. Other dogs are a bit more rambunctious. In fact, unrestrained pets increase driver stress and distraction on the road.

An active dog in a car jumps back and forth from the front seat to the back. He might try to climb on your lap or get into things that you have with you, like your purse or luggage. When he gets to the back seat, his movement might block your view out of the rear window.

Not only can this be very distracting and uncomfortable, but it poses a safety risk. It would help if you focused on the road, not your adorable puppy. Anyone with you in the car might also prefer your dog keeps his paws to himself. Having a crate keeps everyone calm, comfortable, and distraction-free.

In addition to fewer distractions, crates can protect your dog in an accident. Harnesses are great for keeping your dog in the back seat, but they won’t provide any shelter for your pup should you get into a collision.

If your dog is in a crate, it has a better chance of surviving or avoiding injury during a crash . Your dog won’t be thrown from the vehicle and will stay in one place. Rugged crates made from metal or steel may also save your dog’s life from impact or debris.

Should I Buy A Crash-Tested Dog Crate?

The Center for Pet Safety conducts tests to ensure that certain crates advertised as crash-rated safe are just that. They conduct crash tests on several different types of crates and carriers.  Individual pet carrier brands also perform their own crash tests on their products. This helps ensure that pets are safe during any vehicle-related accident.

While there is no way to guarantee that your pet walks away from an accident unharmed, it’s always a good idea to ensure that you put your dog’s safety first . Crash testing is one method to verify that a carrier or crate holds up in a collision. When crash testing, the events of a vehicle crash are simulated, using certain variables to recreate a car crash with dummy pets.

This allows manufacturers and nonprofit organizations to validate what’s considered safe. Unfortunately, these crash-tested dog crates can cost hundreds of dollars or more. This doesn’t always fit in everyone’s budget.

Buyer’s Guide

Here are some of the considerations most dog owners consider when buying a crate for their car.

Let’s take a look at the six different decision points that you should consider when buying a crate or carrier to transport your pup . Not all of these apply. But as a general rule, the better you can get at hitting all six objectives, the better prepared and comfortable your pup will be.

We also have more basic everyday dog crates for home use.

Most pet owners would probably agree that they would do anything they could to ensure their dog was happy and comfortable . If this is one of your top priorities for your furry friend, then you should look for a comfortable crate for car rides.

Some crates have hard composite or rubber bottoms with plastic or metal sides. While these features have benefits, they may not be the most comfortable for your pup. Look for a car crate that’s made of polyester or has soft, padded siding.

Many car crates have padded bottoms and soft edges, making them more comfortable for laying down. At the very least, ensure it’s big enough to fit blankets or a bed pad inside to keep your pet cozy.

Anything that a dog comes in contact with is subject to wear and tear, so it’s important for him (and your bank account) that you invest in something that can take a bit of a beating. Soft crates are best used with small or medium dogs, while larger dogs do better in composite, heavy-duty plastic, or metal crates.

Consider how your dog does when he’s caged up. If he’s fussy and not the biggest fan, your crate will take on more scratching, biting, and movement. That being said, it’s probably not the greatest idea to put your fussy pup in a polyester crate.

If your dog doesn’t mind being crated for a long drive, you shouldn’t have an issue with the softer crate. Just be sure to fold it properly when you put it away, clean it regularly, and look it over for tears or rips now and then.

Crate & Carrier Size

The size of your crate is possibly the most important factor to consider. Your dog shouldn’t have any major constraints while in the crate. They should have room to sit, stand, lay down, and turn around completely. If you have an escape artist on your hands, traveling with a crate may be a challenge. You’ll want a heavy-duty crate for your pup at home as well.

This range of movement lets your pup feel safe and comfortable. If they don’t have enough room to do all these movements, they start to stress out and become very sad and possibly aggressive. The proper size also increases the airflow and visibility your dog gets, which helps keep them comfortable and stress-free.

A crate should be at least six inches longer than your dog and six inches taller than their shoulder height.  When in doubt, always go with the larger size. If your pup is between medium and large, get the large crate. They’ll always do better with more space than less.

Cleaning & Storage

Dogs tend to create messes wherever they go. You’ll want to get a crate that’s easy to clean. Pay close attention to the descriptions of each crate. Many advertise washable features or removable padding. Look for crates that are labeled as waterproof .

If you want to avoid all kinds of cleaning hassle, look for crates with removable pans . The lack of fabric eliminates all questions of how to wash and clean up after your pup. Plastic or composite bottoms are easy to wipe down.

Safety & Security

To avoid further distractions while driving, you want to make sure you get a quality crate that closes and stays closed – especially if you have an escape artist on your hands. We do not recommend crates with simple, one-latch closures. Excited dogs plus the movements from the car ride can shake these loose, ultimately freeing your dog while you’re cruising down the highway.

Look for crates with two latches or solid zippers. It’s best when these features are out of reach of your pup. Some crates have locking mechanisms. While not always necessary, they can provide an additional level of security.

You should also seek a crate that attaches with a strap to the headrest or seatbelt. These types prevent movement, so your dog doesn’t slide around in the backseat or fall into any gaps.

Bonus: Crash-Tested

Not many crates on the market today are completely crash-tested, but there are a rare few. This simply means that before they went up for sale, these products went through and successfully passed a series of crash tests.

Crash-tested crates give you a much higher level of safety for your pets, and better protection should you find yourself in a collision. They are usually more expensive than those that are not tested, but it’s worth it to keep your dog safe in the worst-case scenarios.

Best Dog Crates For Cars

While many crates have been crash-tested, below are our favorites . These are best for medium to large breeds. If you have an XL breed, Gunner Kennels has a great model, or you may want to research a custom option.

You’ll need to have a larger vehicle, preferably an SUV.  Smaller cars lack the space to install a crate. Budget plays a factor, too, and may impact your purchase decision.

• Can be used in the car, in the home, and outdoors.
• More affordable than crash-tested crates.
• Multi-point door locking system.
• Folds to become nearly flat.
• Bottom pan is removable and easily cleaned.
• 90-day warranty.
• Comes in 3 different sizes.

If budget, size options, cleaning and storage, and security play a factor in your purchase decision, this Carlson Wire Crate is an excellent option. This crate features a multi-point locking system to provide a secure environment for your pup.

The crate is available in three sizes ranging from small to x-large. It can easily fold flat for storage and be transferred in and out of your vehicle effortlessly. While your pet is home with you, you can use this crate indoors.

If your dog has an accident, you can remove the plastic bottom pan and wipe it clean . To make the crate more comfortable for your pup, you can add his favorite blanket as a soft bed.

We love  that this crate can serve multiple uses in your car or home. The various size options allow you to choose the best fit for your dog too. The bottom pan makes for easy clean-up if your dog drools in the car, and the wire structure allows him to see, reducing anxiousness.

North America Variocage Dog Cage

• Proven safety track record.
• Widely used in Europe.
• Locking doors with hydraulic springs.
• Emergency escape hatch.
• Mimic’s vehicle crumple zones.
• Protects against rear end collisions.
• Meets European crash test standards.

If safety is your main concern, we highly recommend the 4×4 North America Variocage. This tough, durable cage has been tested for front, rear, and roll-over crashes. There is no need to worry about your four-legged friend riding along with its proven performance.

This crate comes in four sizes ranging from small to max, but it is also adjustable to 14 different sizes to fit not only your pup but also your vehicle.

The easy-open handle is designed to let you pop open the cage with ease while still maintaining a secure closure. In addition, the gas hydraulic motion springs keep the door from swinging and damaging your car. A key lock adds to security for your peace of mind.

In the case of an accident, you can utilize the emergency hatch on the back of the crate to release your dog. The bottom houses a rubber carpet made for comfort, ease in cleaning, and quiet; you no longer have to listen to your pup’s nails scratching a composite surface.

We love that this is certified to meet or exceed various front, rear, and roll-over crash test safety standards. There are various size options, and it has durable construction, including a secure, easy-open door and lock. The only drawback is the cost, but can you put a price on your fur baby’s safety?

Gunner Kennels G1 Dog Crate

• Crash-tested.
• Made in the United States.
• Carries a 5-star crash test rating.
• Double steel-walled.
• Reversible door.
• Lifetime warranty.
• Comes in 4 different sizes.
• Optional all-weather kit.

Gunner Kennels’ crash-tested dog crate is our favorite combination of portability and security. This crash-tested dog crate comes from a crate manufacturer out of Nashville, Tennessee. These crates were created by Founder Addison Edmonds, a hunter who grew tired of replacing plastic crates after heavy use.

Gunner is one of the few brands that actually have customer testimonials directly from pet owners whose dogs were saved during a car crash. Gunner Kennels owns a 5-star crash test rating and is one of the only dog crates certified by the Center for Pet Safety.

Many crash-tested dog crates require the owner to anchor them in the back of their SUV. While you’ll want to secure your Gunner Kennel, you don’t necessarily need to build it into the frame of your car like many other models.

We love Gunner for its combination of quality, safety, and more affordable price compared to other crash test dog crates.

Diggs Revol

• Made with high-grade aluminum, steel mesh wire, and reinforced plastic.
• More sturdy than wire or soft-sided crates.
• Has two wheels for portability.
• Solid escape-proof doors.
• Includes an adjustable puppy divider.
• Can collapse in seconds.

Diggs Revol is made of high-quality materials, including high-grade aluminum, steel mesh wire, and reinforced plastic. The diamond-shaped mesh lets your dog peek out the window during your trip. T hanks to its ergonomic handles and two wheels, it’s easily transported and can collapse flat in seconds.

The doors are escape-proof to prevent any unexpected visitors in your front seat. The garage-style door helps pups feel more comfortable getting into the crate, especially injured or older dogs. It also features an adjustable puppy divider which allows this crate to grow with your dog.

We love   the rounded frame on this crate to prevent paws from getting pinched. It’s also easy to clean if your puppy has an accident. There’s even a ceiling hatch for easy access if you want to give your dog a treat or a quick pet.

Best Dog Carriers

Carriers are different from crates , as carriers are typically something you can take out of your vehicle once stopped. You will not take your Variocage out of the car unless you plan to stay somewhere for a while. Dog carriers are typically used for small and toy-breed pups.

There have been advances in recent years, with some manufacturers like Sleepypod coming out with smaller crash-tested dog carriers that fit in the back seat of your car.

Below find our favorite options you can use that keep your pup safe.

SleepyPod Mobile Pet Carrier

• Perfect for smaller dogs (up to 15 lbs).
• Mobile crash-tested dog carrier.
• No assembly required.
• Made from luggage-grade nylon.
• Includes shoulder strap for carrying.
• Interior foam liner.

The Sleepypod mobile pet bed is a new entrant to the market and is a crash-tested option that’s perfect for smaller dogs. This carrier is made from luggage-grade nylon and is both plush and comfortable inside. It comes equipped with a padded shoulder strap and a handle, making transporting your pet on the go very easy.

Because this is smaller, it’s only recommended to fit pets up to 15 pounds. If you have a larger pup, you should consider getting a larger pet crate, like the ones we’ve given you a thumbs up on above.  For smaller pets, this carrier is a great fit.

We love that it requires no assembly, making this carrier grab-and-go. If you have a flight planned, this product is not recommended. Instead, check out some in-cabin carriers that are air travel approved .

Gen7Pets Commuter Safety Seat

• Approved for airline travel on most carriers.
• Crash tested with seat belt use.
• Great carrier for smaller dogs.
• Padded shoulder strap.
• Machine washable.
• Made with heavy-duty hardware.
• Utilizes seat belt latch in car.

The Gen7Pets Commuter safety seat has been rated five stars for safety by the center for pet safety.  This carrier is approved for use on most airlines , but we’d still recommend getting one specifically for air travel if you plan on boarding a plane and transporting your dog in the cabin.

However, for cars, the Gen7Pets Commuter Safety Seat is a great pick, and it’s perfect for pets under 15 pounds. It’s specifically made for smaller breeds and toy breeds, similar to the Sleepypod mobile pet carrier. This carrier is also easy to grab and go, with shoulder and arm straps.

We love that the heavy-duty hardware ensures it withstands extreme abuse for years to come. It is equipped with a removable and machine-washable comfort pad. If you are looking for a budget-friendly crash-tested carrier, it’s hard to go wrong with this pick.

Frisco Kennel

• Features 2 doors for loading the pet.
• Hard-sided carrier.
• Made from 95% pre-consumer recycled plastic.
• Eco-friendly and easy to clean.
• Sturdy handle for easy carrying
• Comes in 2 different sizes.

The Frisco Two Door Top Load Plastic Dog & Cat Kennel comes in two sizes and two colors. It features a top-loading door, allowing access to your pet during your trip for comfort or treats.

The structure is made of two halves that lock together. While it’s not in use, you can store the halves inside one another to reduce the amount of space it takes up.

We love that the hard plastic shell makes cleaning easy. Your pet’s paws can stay drier with the moat-like structure inside. You can even add your dog’s favorite bed or blanket inside to provide a more cozy feeling for him.

Frequently Asked Questions

Regarding crash-tested dog crates, we’ve answered several common questions. Read through some of our frequently asked questions to find the answers you might still be looking for.

Why can’t I just use a harness in my car?

The short answer to this question is safety. In some states , it’s actually illegal to have your dog roam free in your vehicle while you’re driving. It’s much safer to have your dog in a crate rather than using something like a seatbelt leash, which leaves your pup exposed and unprotected in the case of an accident.

Should all dogs be in a crate every time they get in the car?

It is always best and safest for dogs to be crated or in a carrier in the car, regardless of size. The safest place for the crate is in the backseat, buckled in. If you cannot do that, you can anchor it in the trunk or cargo area, as long as it is not an enclosed trunk. Make sure the crate cannot slide or move around. Always pick a well-ventilated crate and make sure your dog gets fresh air, even if you need to roll down the window.

What accessories should I give my dog in his crate during a car ride?

You should make your dog feel as comfortable as possible in his crate during your car ride. Give him a couple of his favorite toys to keep him occupied. If you know you’re going to be driving for a long period without stopping, you should give him some food and water as well. You can even find special dispensers to attach to a wire crate with anti-spill features.

Are non-crash-tested crates okay to use?

While crash-tested crates are certainly the best and have proof that they are safe, this doesn’t mean that non-tested crates are unsafe. They’re just untested. Crates that haven’t been crash-tested are still okay to use, but it all depends on your comfort level. If you prefer to feel 100% confident that your dog will be okay in a crash, you may want to consider looking into only crash-tested products.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to our dogs, we want only the best products. Our pups are a part of our family, and protecting them is of the utmost importance. This is why it’s important to find the best crate for your budget to put into your car. Each crate on our list serves a different dog owner in terms of price, comfort level, available sizes, durability, and ease of use.

Whichever dog car crate you go with, know that these options are all excellent choices to get you started. Use this information to start your search and make the best purchase for your furry friend. Happy shopping, and let us know in the comments if you have a favorite car crate or carrier we missed.

Author's Suggestion

Best Escape Proof Dog Harnesses: Ratings & Reviews

The information provided through this website should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease; it is not intended to offer any legal opinion or advice or a substitute for professional safety or care advice. Please consult your health care provider, attorney, insurance expert, or product manual for professional advice. Products and services reviewed are provided by third parties; we are not responsible in any way for them, nor do we guarantee their functionality, utility, safety, or reliability. Our content is for educational purposes only.

In your piece you mention that crates that have not been crash-tested are likely safe, just untested. This is not accurate. If a component or components of a crate fail during an accident, the dog can be released from the crate during impact, parts can actually become dangerous and impale dogs, etc. A crate that does not hold up during a crash can be dangerous.

Correct but not all companies pay to have third-party crash tests performed and therefore cannot called them “crash-test safe” but some are reliable in cars. So it is best to do your research and if your main concern is crash safety, than go for one that has tested this claim and you can rely on.

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Home » Supplies » Best Dog Crates » Top 5 Rated Dog Travel Cages for Cars Reviewed

Top 5 Rated Dog Travel Cages for Cars Reviewed

Do you frequently take your pup on car rides? If you do, you might want to consider purchasing a special kind of kennel that will keep your pooch safe while he’s in the vehicle. A comfortable, reliable, and a secure pet carrier for travel will give your dog a cozy place for resting and you won’t have to worry about his safety in case of an accident.

When it comes to travel crates for dogs, there are a lot of different types – some are made out of mesh, some made of plastic, while some sport a heavy-duty metal construction . As you can already guess, this makes figuring out which one is the best for your needs quite challenging.

Have no worries, though – we’re here to carefully analyze the best car kennels for dogs. We’ll take a closer look at the currently most popular  crash tested dog crates  and find out everything about their advantages and value for the money. Let’s go! We created a detailed guide  about the ultimate cages for dogs so make sure to check it out if you want to know more about different types and uses.

Top 5 Safest Travel Dog Crates

Gunner kennels g1.

• CPS Certified:  Yes
• Type:  Plastic
• Dog Weight Range:  Up to 75lb

The first product we’re going to take a look at comes for Gunner Kennels, which is one of the most famous US manufacturers of these types of pet products. The majority of the popular products are designed to house smaller breeds, but not this one – the Gunner Kennels G1 can contain canines that weight up to 75lb, making it a suitable choice for the owners of large breeds. Let’s take a closer look at it!

The Gunner Kennels G1 is a heavy-duty model – its walls were manufactured from solid double-walled plastic, which was combined with stainless steel tie downs and a wide base. As you can see from the picture; this model was designed to be sturdy and to easily withstand daily wear and tear, as well as the damage that happens during a possible collision.

How strong is this kennel, actually? The manufacturer says that the roto-molded plastic that was used for its manufacture can survive a 200-foot fall and a shot from a 12-gauge shotgun. The model was also tested with forces up to 4000 pounds and it didn’t crack – if this isn’t impressive, we don’t know what is. However, the most important thing here is that G1 has received a 5-star rating from the Center for Pet Safety (CPS) , which gives an almost absolute peace of mind when it comes to safety.

The fact that G1 was designed primarily with the travel safety in mind means that it doesn’t have a lot of extra features. Its interior is very easy to keep clean, though – there’s a drainage hole in case your canine friend has an “accident”. The model’s windows provide sufficient ventilation, so you won’t have to worry about your pet experiencing a heat stroke during the long car rides in the summer.

In case your four-legged friend is a determined escape artist, you’ll be grateful to find an escape-proof door on G1. It has a key-locked paddle latch and it was made from reinforced aluminum. The only major downside of this kennel is its price – if you’re on a tight budget, you’ll have to look elsewhere.

• Highly durable construction
• Excellent safety in vehicles
• Easy to keep clean
• Quite pricey

All in all, we can easily see why is G1 one of the most popular safest dog crate for the car  on the market. It’s a spacious, CPS-certified model that guarantees safety for your large dog during long rides in an automobile.

Sleepypod Mobile

• Type:  Soft-sided
• Dog Weight Range:  Up to 15lb

Next up is Sleepypod Mobile, a model that’s more than just a carrier – lined with ultra-plush foam, it’s almost like a luxury traveling bed for your furry companion. In case your pooch is heavier than 8 pounds but lighter than 15 pounds, this just might your best choice.

Just like many other traveling cages for dogs we’ve reviewed, Sleepypod Mobile has also been crash-tested and bears the much-needed CPS certification. One of the reasons because of which the model passed the tests is that it was manufactured from luggage-grade nylon, which easily withstands collision forces (unlike the inexpensive alternatives). This means that Sleepypod Mobile provides excellent protection in case of a car accident, which is the vital thing when it comes to dog carriers optimized for car travel.

However, the outstanding safety rating isn’t the only great thing about this kennel. Its domed design provides ample space for your canine companion, while the plush interior offers a sufficient amount of comfort for the long car rides. The insides of Sleepypod Mobile are covered with soft polyester, which is among the better materials when it comes to interior comfort.

Furthermore, the model also provides good ventilation due to its mesh dome. There’s a top handle on this dome, which doubles as a sturdy seat belt attachment and presents an additional safety feature. Another thing worth mentioning here is the fact that the dome can be opened when you’re not traveling – all you have to do is undo the zipper.

The full name of this carrier is Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed, and the “bed” in this name means that the model features internal bedding that’s combined with a waterproof foam liner. Just as we expected, the bedding is washable – it’s something that the owners of the messier canines will certainly appreciate.

When it comes to disadvantages, we should mention that this one is not certified for air travel. It’s a great choice when it comes to car rides, but it bears no IATA certification and cannot be carried into an airplane cabin.

• Crash-tested – a safe soft-sided crate
• Comfortable interior
• Washable bedding
• Not suitable for air travel

The fact that this product can’t be used on airlines isn’t a major drawback – you are, after all, looking for a model that you’ll use in your car. And Sleepypod Mobile is a fantastic choice for that matter and an investment that you won’t regret.

Petego Jet Set

• Dog Weight Range:  Up to 22lb

When it comes to soft-sided pet car carriers, Petego Jet Set is the real deal – this model provides unparalleled in-car safety due to its design that adds durability and structural integrity. It’s a safe, stylish, and a reasonably priced product that deserves a more in-depth look.

Like all other carriers manufactured by Petego, this one also sports a stylish design that immediately catches attention. The Jet Set carrier is available in several different color combinations – silver/brown, orange/brown, and green/brown, as well as in two plain colors – black and beige. As far as we’re concerned, all versions look very attractive and present a chic way to transport your four-legged companion in the car. It’s not called “Jet Set” without a reason!

However, the sleek design isn’t as important as its safety, although Jet Set delivers that too. One of its main selling points is the manufacturer’s signature Forma Frame, which is capable of transforming this carrier into a solid structure that efficiently protects your pup in case of a car accident. Another great thing about this metal support system is that it’s collapsible – one can easily fold down this carrier when it’s not needed and store it away under the bed or in the closet.

Another feature that sets Jet Set apart from the competition is its unique ISOFIX latch connection. It’s a system that helped this crate pass the CPS crash study, as it provides great security and allows Petego Jet Set to safely contain the pooch during the collision. One particularly impressive thing about this innovative latch connection is that it snaps into place just like your regular safety seat belt. A hassle-free operation is always a big plus in our book!

The model can be carried as a backpack, over the shoulder, by hand, or fixed to the car seat. The manufacturer also provides an array of travel accessories for this crate, which can be purchased separately on their website. Our only complaint is the size of its mesh windows, as they’re quite small and make the interior very dark.

• Stylish design
• One of the safest soft-sided models
• Foldable design
• Mesh windows are quite small

The Petego Jet Set is, without a doubt, one of the safest and best-looking soft carriers out there. Those looking for a mesh-made carrier that will keep their canine companion safe inside the vehicle should definitely consider this model for purchase.

Gen7 Commuter

• Dog Weight Range:  Up to 20lb

With decades of child safety experience, Gen7 decided to try their hands at pet safety, too – and the result is Gen7 Commuter, a secure and comfortable soft-sided dog carrier for cars. There’s a lot to like about this model – let’s take a closer look at its features:

With the dimensions of 18″ x 11″ x 11″ and the weight of just 4.6 pounds, the Gen7 Commuter is quite compact and doesn’t take too much space. It can contain canines up to 20 pounds, although the manufacturer advises that it’s best suited for dogs that weight no more than 16lbs. This makes it an ideal choice for the owners of smaller breeds, such as Yorkshire Terrier, Maltese, Pomeranian, Affenpinscher, and others.

The design of this cage is a simple one, although it still looks quite attractive. It can be bought in two different colors – black and burgundy, with each of them having five mesh windows that provide good airflow and sufficient ventilation during the long summer rides. Due to the presence of a convenient shoulder strap, carrying the Commuter is exceptionally easy, and the strap can also be wrapped around the back seat’s headrest for better stability.

Even though this is a soft-sided model, we still have to give praise to its sturdy structure. It was manufactured from ballistic nylon and features industrial-grade stitching, which is quite impressive when it comes to these types of pet products. For additional safety, Gen7 decided to equip this carrier with a heavy-duty seatbelt latch which allows the owner to utilize his vehicle’s seatbelt mechanism. With the crate latched to a seatbelt and with its shoulder strap wrapped around the headrest, there’s no space for worrying about your dog getting hurt.

Besides its 5-star CPS certification , the model is also airline approved (by most major airlines, though – don’t forget to check the specific requirements of your airline). The only disadvantage is that it has no storage pockets, which means that you’ll keep your pet’s water bottles and treats in the bag.

• Can be used on most major airlines
• No storage pockets

The Gen7 Commuter provides security and comfort while on the go, as it has a couple of excellent safety features and a cozy, well-ventilated interior that makes every car ride a joyful experience for the dog. We recommend it!

4×4 North America

• CPS Certified:  No
• Type:  Heavy-Duty
• Dog Weight Range:  N/A

This pet crate seems to be one of the safest products for car travel on the market, especially when it comes to medium and large dogs. Made from heavy-duty steel and being virtually indestructible, it’s the perfect choice for the safety-conscious pet owners.

This model is unlike any other on the market – it has been manufactured from ASTM A366 gauge steel which is unmatched in terms of protection and durability. It was built to last, and will probably last you for years, even decades. The depth of this model is fully adjustable, allowing you to keep it even if you decide to change cars.

Although it bears no CPS certification, the 4×4 North America is probably among the safest travel dog kennel that money can buy. It is the only crash-tested certified model that uses governmental safety standards, such as SPCT, ECE R-44, ECE R-17, and ISO 27955. This means that it was crash-tested for the rear, front, and roll-over protection, and it bears an excellent decade-long safety track record. If there was ever a kennel that gives complete peace of mind when it comes to security, it’s this one!

Even though it’s quite bulky, assembling this model is exceptionally easy and can be done in 10 minutes. It comes with individual panels, telescopic tubes, all necessary hardware, and detailed instructions that are filled with pictures which make the whole process very straightforward.

One thing we particularly like about it is that its doors feature gas hydraulic motion springs, which make opening and closing them exceptionally easy. The same can be said for the model’s tie-down straps, which allow the owner to secure this kennel to the anchor points in the vehicle. We also like the presence of an escape hatch – its purpose is to help you safely remove the pooch from the cage in case of a collision.

The only major downside of this incredible kennel is its high price. No matter which size of it you decide to purchase, you’ll have to spend a lot of money – unmatched safety comes at a high price.

• Outstanding construction quality
• The safest heavy-duty crate on the market
• Easy assembly
• Very expensive

The high price of this dog travel kennel is easily justified by the sheer number of its impressive safety features. With this model, you won’t have to worry about your pup getting hurt in an accident – 4×4 North America prevents injuries with 100% efficiency.

Why Dogs Need to be Secured in the Car?

Whether you have decided to purchase a quality dog travel kennel or have opted for another kind of dog car restraint system, your canine friend has to be secured while he’s in the vehicle (or while you are  cycling with him ). Many owners decide to give their dogs with free movement in the automobile, although this can have very dangerous consequences for both the owner and his pet. A sudden collision can cause your pooch to become an instant projectile – he could fly through the windshield and hurt you and other passengers in the process.

Furthermore, unrestrained dogs are one of the most common causes of distracted driving. You’ve probably heard about Stephen King’s near-fatal car accident – he almost died when the driver tried to correct his disobedient dog and took his eyes off the road to do so.

Even though it can be fun to have your furry companion as a copilot, don’t ever forget that distraction can lead to fatal consequences. In simple words, it’s just not worth the risk.

Where to Put the Crate?

Majority of dog owners place their pet’s crate in the back of the vehicle. However, this often isn’t the safest place for your pup to be at. In many vehicles, particular back and front sections are manufactured as designated “crumple” areas in case of a collision. In simple terms, these zones are meant to crumple in case of an impact so that the passengers inside the vehicle may be preserved. It’s a life-saving technology, but only as long as there’s nothing placed in these “crumple” zones.

The positions of these zones vary from one model of a car to another, especially when it comes to bigger vehicles that utilize a lot more of the backspace for seating. For that matter, we advise consulting with the car dealership so that you can determine the positions of the crumple areas in your automobile. It’s the only way to make sure that your pet’s kennel is away from any danger.

Placing the pooch on the front seat, on the other hand, isn’t a good idea either. It exposes the pup to front-passenger airbags, and these things were designed for humans – not for canines. Just like you wouldn’t want to place your kid in the passenger seat because he or she is too small to be hit by an airbag, you wouldn’t want to do the same thing with your furry friend.

What about Larger Dogs?

Even though safety is important for canines of all sizes, bigger dogs need to be given some special care. Their larger bodes can turn them into larger projectiles, thus making them far more dangerous than the smaller dogs. Moreover, larger canines experience far more force on impact.

For that matter, you need to pay special attention when securing your large pooch – make sure that he’s placed at an appropriate place inside the vehicle and that his crate is stable and doesn’t move while you’re driving. You don’t want to regret your hurry later!

How to Choose a Car Crate?

When choosing a regular kind of a dog kennel, comfort is the primary concern. However, buying a special car kennel brings several other factors into play, with the safety being the most important of them. In this article, we’ll show you a couple of considerations you need to have in mind while looking for a quality car carrier for your four-legged friend.

When it comes to material, one of the most important things you need to keep in mind is to avoid wire models. Even though the wire cages are great for indoor use (since they provide plenty of ventilation); they’re not exactly suitable for vehicles, as they are not strong enough to withstand the forces that occur during the collision.

Similarly, soft-sided models are also to be avoided, although we have to mention that there are a couple of exceptions (especially when it comes to smaller breeds). All soft-sided cages that we reviewed above are safe and CPS certified and buying one of them can’t really turn out to be a mistake.

Weight Range

Secure Strapping

Crash-tested.

• When it comes to pet safety market, there are almost no regulations; which means that one can’t always trust in what the manufacturer claims. For that matter, we recommend looking for models that passed crash tests, with publicly available results. The best models in this regard are those bearing a 5-star CPS certification – they will keep your four-legged friend safe and secure in case of a car accident.

CPS Certification – Why It’s Important

If one can’t really trust the claims of the manufacturers, whom he can trust? This is where the Center for Pet Safety comes into play. The goal of this non-profit organization is to provide the dog owners with independent safety testing of all sorts of pet-related products, such as crates and harnesses, among others. This is of crucial importance with little to no safety regulations in the world of pet safety equipment.

CPS says that there are no test protocols or performance standards for most classes of pet-related products in the United States. They also point out that the manufacturers of these items are not required to have their products tested before selling them.

All loving dog owners are bound to be shocked by this fact, especially when we consider that a dog that’s not properly secured inside the car also put humans at risk. And what’s even worse, the CPS has discovered that the most of crates actually fail to protect the pup in case of a car accident. In fact, there are only a couple of travel kennels that have been certified as safe by this organization, which is quite appalling.

Crash-Proof Power vs. Distraction Prevention

Even though we said that the majority of popular and affordable travel carriers usually fail the safety tests , it’s still worth noting that they do offer some help – especially when it comes to distraction prevention.

Having the crate with the pooch placed on the backseat leads to a safe driving experience, and, therefore, to a lower risk of having a car accident. So, while these cheap models won’t provide your dog with sufficient protection in case of a collision, they’re still better than having no kennel at all.

The same can be said for the majority of dog seat belts and dog booster car seats – they provide no protection but can prevent the pup from bothering you while you’re driving. However, you should still opt for a quality crate that can keep the pooch safe and prevent distractions at the same time.

How the CPS Testing Works

CPS performs two tests. The first one is completed with the carrier being held in the car’s cargo area, with the vehicle’s backseat folded down (the carrier itself is secured via straps). This is where most of the cheap models fail.

In the second test, the carrier is once again put in the same place, but this time with one side of it resting against the backseat (which is not folded down in this scenario). As you can already guess, this gives the kennel some additional support, which is precisely why a lot more models manage to pass this test.

However, the main issue here is that having the kennel leaning on the backseat leads to an improved risk of seatback failure in case of a front impact collision. This puts both the dog and the passengers at risk, which is precisely why it is not recommended to use seatback support for the travel pet crate.

Making sure that your canine friend is safe while traveling in the vehicle is of crucial importance if you want to avoid injuries or death in case of a collision. One can never know if he’s going to experience a car accident, which is precisely why your pooch should always travel in a quality crash-tested kennel.

In our reviews, we have tried to find all the advantages and flaws of the market’s most popular dog carriers for cars and travel in general. We analyzed the features of each model and tried to determine their value for the money, with the goal of helping our readers to find the best dog car kennel for their own and their dog’s needs.

G1. It sports the right combination of excellent safety features and comes at a reasonable price – what more could one want from a dog travel crate for a car?

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• Scholarship

The Best Dog Crates For Travel 2024 Review

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Written by: Ann-Marie Sharpe

Traveling with your pup can be so much fun for you both, allowing you to see the world and explore together.

A travel dog crate can make travel easier, safer, and more comfortable for your dog , as well as give you peace of mind.

There are lots of fantastic options, allowing you to find something suitable for your adventurous pup.

In this guide, we’ve thoroughly reviewed the best dog crates for travel on the market.

Our top choice is the Frisco Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate . It’s lightweight, easy to fold down and assemble, and most importantly safe during travel.

The Best Dog Crates For Travel

Editor's Choice

• Best overall travel crate
• Strong, durable material
• Easy fold-down and assembly

• Best collapsible wire crate
• Folds down easily for travel
• Strong metal construction

• Best for small breeds
• Sturdy and secure
• Great for air and car travel

1. Frisco Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate [ CHECK PRICE ]

2. midwest icrate fold & carry single door collapsible wire dog crate [ check price ], 3. petmate two door top load dog & cat kennel [ check price ], 4. go pet club double door collapsible soft-sided dog crate [ check price ], 5. frisco indoor & outdoor 3-door collapsible soft-sided dog crate [ check price ], 6. proselect empire single door steel dog crate [ check price ], 7. sherpa original deluxe airline-approved dog carrier bag [ check price ], more detailed travel dog crate reviews, best dog crates for travel.

• Frisco Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate Check Price
• MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate Check Price
• Petmate Two Door Top Load Dog & Cat Kennel Check Price
• Go Pet Club Double Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate Check Price
• Frisco Indoor & Outdoor 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate Check Price
• ProSelect Empire Single Door Steel Dog Crate Check Price
• Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog Carrier Bag Check Price

Frisco Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate

Frisco fold & carry double door collapsible wire dog crate review.

The Frisco Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate is 1 of the best travel dog crates on the market. It can be folded down quickly and has handles to make transportation easy.

It’s also quick and easy to assemble when you get to your destination (I found this very handy), making it a great home-away-from-home for your pup.

This dog cage is made from durable and robust material, making it safer if used during travel. There’s even a dual latch on larger crate sizes to provide extra security for stronger dogs.

The crate comes in a range of sizes to suit all breeds and has a removable divider panel you can use when your dog is a puppy, so the crate can grow with them (see also ‘ The Ultimate Dog Crate Sizing Guide ‘). It comes at a very reasonable price.

• Many owners felt this crate was made with high-quality materials, making it durable
• Strong enough for most dogs who are crate trained
• Owners found it was easy to fold down and put back up, making it great for travel
• 2 doors provide easy access and more options for positioning, which owners felt was handy during travel and when positioning the crate in the home
• Some said the crate was lightweight, particularly for the security and strength it provides
• Owners stated that they felt this crate was of great value
• Not suitable for escape artists, as some owners found their determined dog could get out of the crate
• Not strong enough for very destructive dogs, who can chew and break the crate
• With frequent use some owners found that the latches became misshapen, making it hard to lock the crate
• Some found the divider panel hard to install

MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate

Midwest icrate fold & carry single door collapsible wire dog crate review.

The MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate is one of the best dog crates for travel, with durable construction and plenty of ventilation.

It assembles in minutes with no tools and folds down flat for transportation. There’s even a carry handle to make your life easier.

The strong wire construction paired with secure latches keeps your dog safely enclosed on the move. I liked that the plastic bottom is leakproof and removable so if there are any accidents on your adventures, they’re easy to clean up.

This crate comes in a wide range of sizes to suit most breeds. It even has a divider panel so it can grow with your dog, which is fantastic if you have a puppy.

• Many owners said this crate was well-made and durable
• Owners generally felt this crate was spacious and comfortable for their dog
• Folds flat easily with little effort and is easy to transport
• Most owners felt this crate was secure and kept their dog safely enclosed
• Owners found this crate was easy to assemble
• Divider panel can be tricky to take in and out (see also ' How To Make A Dog Crate Divider ')
• Some owners found their strong dog could break out of this crate

Petmate Two Door Top Load Dog & Cat Kennel

Petmate two door top load dog & cat kennel review.

The Petmate Two Door Top Load Dog & Cat Kennel is 1 of the best dog crates for air travel or car travel, as well as providing a cozy home base for your precious pooch.

Steel wire and durable plastic are combined to make a safe, secure crate for small breeds. I found that the crate’s plastic sides made my dog feel safely enclosed, keeping them calmer during travel (see also ‘ What Kind of Crate Is Best For My Puppy? (5 Types Analyzed) ‘).

The crate provides plenty of ventilation for your dog. This dog car crate has a handle on top, providing easy portability even when your little furbaby is inside.

It’s available in 2 sizes for small breeds and comes at a great low price.

• Owners found the crate easy to assemble with no tools required
• 2 doors allow your dog to look out, while also providing easy access for both dog and owner
• Some found the option to use the crate as a carrier very useful during travel
• Plastic is easy to wipe clean, which is convenient if your dog has an accident when traveling
• Lightweight, making it easy to transport and move around when needed
• Some owners found the ventilation holes were sharper than they expected, which they felt was a safety hazard
• Some said they found the size description was misleading, leading them to purchase the wrong size for their dog
• 2 plastic sections clip together during assembly, which some owners said made the crate weaker and less sturdy than they had hoped

Go Pet Club Double Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate

Go Pet Club Double Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate review

• Best crate carrier
• Suitable for toy and small breeds
• Comfortable and cozy

The Go Pet Club Double Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate is a fantastic option if you’re looking for both a crate and a carrier in 1.

With soft sides, plenty of ventilation, and a removable fleece floor pad, this fabric crate makes a comfortable, cozy space for your dog. A reinforced steel structure provides some security during traveling.

Handles allow you to carry your dog while they’re inside the crate, which I found very sturdy when carrying my small dog. It also folds down and re-assembles quickly for convenience during travel.

Most dog car carriers have doors that open from the top or side, but this crate has zippered double doors on the top and front for easy access. This makes it easier to put your pet in and out of the crate, especially if they have any mobility issues.

This soft crate is suitable for toys and small breeds and comes at an exceptionally low price.

• Lightweight and easy to fold down and reassemble, which owners found helpful for travel
• Being able to use the crate as a carrier was handy for most owners
• Owners found it was excellent for car travel, keeping their dogs safe and comfortable
• Additional pockets for dog’s belongings are very useful when traveling
• Most owners felt this crate was great value for money
• Not strong enough for dogs who are destructive or try to escape
• Some owners found the crate was easily torn if their dog moved around a lot while inside
• Not sturdy enough to stand up to chewing
• Some found this crate harder to assemble than other crates they’d tried
• Some owners found the mesh was a weak point in the crate, being easily torn by their pup

Frisco Indoor & Outdoor 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate

Frisco Indoor & Outdoor 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate review

• Best soft-sided crate
• Comfortable and secure
• Suitable for all breeds

The Frisco Indoor & Outdoor 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate is an amazing on-the-go home for your pampered pooch, with soft sides and 3 doors for easy access.

With a sturdy steel frame, water-resistant material, plenty of ventilation, and the ability to lock the zippers, this crate offers safety during travel as well as comfort.

The crate can be folded down and put back up easily, which I found made traveling much easier with my dogs.

It’s lightweight and features a carrying handle to make transportation easy. This crate comes in a range of sizes to suit all breeds and is an affordable, mid-range price.

If you’re looking for the best dog travel crate, this is a wonderful choice.

• Great for use as your dog’s ‘bedroom’ when they are on holiday with you
• Owners found the crate was very portable, being easy to fold down and assemble
• Great for car travel, creating a cozy safe space for your dog
• Owners found the crate was dark and created a cave-like space for their dogs, which kept them calmer, particularly during travel
• Most owners felt this crate was excellent value for money
• Not strong enough for escape artists or dogs who are prone to chewing
• Some owners found the zips weren’t very sturdy and were easily broken
• Some felt that the material was not as high-quality as they expected

ProSelect Empire Single Door Steel Dog Crate

ProSelect Empire Single Door Steel Dog Crate review

• Best for escape artists
• Reinforced steel with dual locking
• Suitable for medium and large breeds

The ProSelect Empire Single Door Steel Dog Crate is an excellent option for big, strong dogs who are escape artists.

This sturdy crate is made from steel and is reinforced, making it extremely strong to keep your dog safely contained during travel. While this crate doesn’t fold down, I found the wheels make it easier to transport.

It comes in 2 sizes for medium and large dogs. While this crate is on the higher end of the price range, if you have a dog who is prone to escaping its crate, I feel it’s worth the cost to keep your best friend safe.

• Owners stated that this crate was escape-proof, even in cases where their dog had escaped all other crates previously
• Many said that the crate was worth the investment to keep their dog safe during travel or when they were home alone (see also ' Should Dogs Be Crated? ')
• Strong enough for dogs who dig or chew when they’re in their crate
• Sturdy materials provide extra protection during travel, which gave owners peace of mind
• Some stated that their dog found the crate comfortable, and they were able to add additional comfort items
• Due to its heavy-duty construction, this crate is heavy and hard to move around for travel
• Some owners found the assembly of the crate difficult and somewhat confusing
• Some very determined dogs were able to figure out the latch mechanism
• In some cases, owners felt the crate didn’t stand up to wear over time as well as they had hoped

Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog Carrier Bag

Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog Carrier Bag review

• Best airline-approved carrier crate
• Approved for use on most airlines
• Shoulder strap for easy carrying

If you travel a lot with your best friend, the Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline-Approved Dog Carrier Bag might be just what you need.

Ideal for small dogs, this carrier bag allows you to take your pup with you on the go. It has a carry strap so you can carry them easily and is approved for use on most airlines.

There are mesh windows so your dog can see where they’re going and to ensure they have adequate ventilation. There’s both top and side entry, so you can easily access your dog during travel.

I liked that this bag came with a faux lambskin liner for your dog’s comfort and locking zippers for security. At an affordable price and with high-quality construction, this carrier crate is excellent value!

• Many owners said this carry crate was easy and comfortable to carry
• Most owners felt this crate was comfortable for their pet
• Several owners said they took their dogs on a plane and had no issues with this carrier
• The top door allows easy access and lets pets sit up and look out on their travels
• Many said the carrier was durable and lasted well over time
• Not designed to stand up to biting or destructive behavior
• Some experienced breakage over time, in particular around the zippers and lining

Things to Look for in a Travel Dog Crate

When you’re looking for the best travel dog crate for your pup, it’s crucial you keep a few things in mind to help you make the safest, most suitable choice for you and your dog.

Fit for Purpose

If you’re going to be carrying the crate with you to use as your dog’s ‘bedroom’ away from home, a foldable lightweight crate will be best.

If you’re searching for the best dog crate for car travel, you need to think about how safe and secure your dog will be in the crate, as well as how you will fit and secure the crate into your car. Often plastic or wire crates are the best choice for car travel.

If you’re looking for the best dog crate for airline travel, the type of crate you need will depend on whether your dog will be in the cabin with you or in the cargo hold.

If your dog is in the cabin, a smaller, softer crate may be better. If they’re in the cargo hold, a sturdy, solid crate to keep them safe from being bumped around would be best.

Each airline has individual regulations and rules about which carriers they will allow onboard, so vital to check those requirements specifically.

If you’re going to be traveling by air with your dog a lot, it’s a good idea to look for crates that state they are ‘Airline Approved’ or ‘Guaranteed On Board’.

Furthermore, pet safety crash testing is also an important factor to consider, as these tests can guarantee the safety of your pet in the event of a car accident.

Most car crates proudly display their Center for Pet Safety certification, which is a good sign that the crate has undergone rigorous testing. Ultimately, you should feel confident knowing your pet is safe, secure, and comfortable in its crash-tested crate.

High-Quality Materials

Choosing a crate made with high-quality materials means it’s likely to be safer, as well as more sturdy and secure. It also means the crate is likely to last longer and stand up to wear as you go on adventures with your pup.

Correct Size for Your Dog

It’s vital to choose a crate that is the right size for your dog. Ideally, you should measure your dog:

• from their nose to the base of their tail, and add 3 to 4 inches for the length of the crate
• from the top of their head or ears to the floor, and add 3 to 4 inches for the height of the crate
• across their shoulders and multiply by two for the width of the crate

Your dog should always be able to stand up fully, turn around comfortably, and stretch out in their crate, but not be able to walk around.

Correct Strength for Your Dog

Think about how strong you need the crate to be for your dog. If your dog is smaller or generally calm when they’re in its crate, a soft-sided crate might be suitable.

If your dog is bigger and typically chews their crate or tries to escape, a solid plastic or metal crate will be better suited.

Secure Closure

Any crate you choose should have a secure closure to keep your dog safely inside the crate during travel (see also ‘ How To Secure A Dog Crate In A Car ‘).

A zip or small lock may be enough for some dogs, while escape artists may need double, reinforced locks. It’s also essential that the seat belt in the car should be securely attached to the crate.

Easy Entry and Exit

Think about how your dog will enter and exit the crate. Some crates have multiple doors to make things easier.

Good Air Flow

A crate must have good ventilation. Wire crates typically have a lot of ventilation. Look for ventilation holes in the side of plastic crates and mesh windows on soft-sided crates.

Easy Cleaning

There’s no denying that dogs can make a mess. If you’re traveling, particularly if your dog is nervous, it might have an accident. Choosing a crate that is easy to clean will be helpful and more hygienic.

Some crates will have removable or washable linings. Others may be easy to wipe down. Some are ‘potty proof’, meaning there’s a pull-out area under the crate that easily pulls out so you can clean it, or you could add a puppy pad to the pull-out area during travel to absorb any accidents.

Comfort for Your Dog

Of course, it’s crucial your dog feels comfortable. Choosing a crate that is the right size with good ventilation is key for this. You can also add in a comfortable bed, blankets, crate-safe toys and chews, and water.

Ease of Storage

If you’re going to be storing the crate when you aren’t traveling, think about how much room you have. A crate that folds down may be more suitable.

Portability

Consider the weight of the crate as well as how easy it is to carry. Some will be more lightweight, may fold down, and may even have handles to make lifting them easier. The best heavy-duty dog crates may have wheels to help you move them.

Why You Might Buy a Travel Dog Crate

Just like people, when dogs are traveling by air or by road, they need to be secured safely to protect them in case of an accident. A crate can be a great way to keep your dog safe.

If you use a crate at home, your dog can see it as their ‘bedroom’ or safe space. Often when dogs travel in a crate or use it as a place to sleep while on holiday, it keeps them calmer and happier because they see the crate as a positive place.

The Importance of Crate Training

It’s crucial that your dog sees their crate as a safe place. This means you need to crate train your dog before you use a travel crate (see also ‘ Dog Crate Training Pros & Cons (Is It Really Necessary?) ‘).

Do your research if you’ve never crate trained before; there are lots of great guides online.

Some general crate training tips are included below:

• Get your dog used to their crate for a while before you plan on traveling.
• Never use the crate as a punishment, only as a positive place.
• Use lots of treats and praise to encourage them and make training fun.
• Never force your dog into the crate; encourage them to enter on their own.
• Start your dog off with being in the crate for short periods while at home and gradually increase the time as they get more comfortable.
• Use long-lasting treats or crate-safe toys while they’re in the crate to make it fun.
• Make their crate a comfortable, cozy place by using things like bedding and blankets.

Travel Dog Crate Safety Advice

Always choose a crate the correct size for your dog and ensure it’s sturdy enough for your purposes. Always secure the crate correctly during traveling. It’s crucial to make sure your dog can’t escape from the crate to keep them safe.

Travel Dog Crate FAQ

Can dog crates be too big.

Yes, a crate that’s too big can be dangerous, especially when traveling. Choosing the correct size of crate for your dog is crucial.

Is it really safe for your dog to travel in a crate?

Yes, the right crate can help to keep your dog safe during travel.

Do dogs prefer wire or plastic crates?

Dogs have preferences just like humans, but in general, a dog won’t mind what kind of crate they’re in as long as it’s cozy and comfortable and they are crate trained.

Finding the right travel dog crate can keep your pup safe and happy during travel, allowing you both to enjoy your adventures together. The world is yours to explore!

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Ann-Marie Sharpe

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Dog Crates for Cars

Pet Pro Supply Co. carries a wide range of dog crates for cars and SUVs, for a great fit for any size car and any size dog.

If you are unsure about which dog crate is best for your specific vehicle, just contact us with the year, make and model of your car and we can guide you.

We also sell crash-tested crates and travel accessories for your dog's safety when travelling in your car.

According to a survey by the American Automobile Association, 84% of drivers who transport their dogs in a vehicle do not use a proper safety restraint. Traveling in your vehicle with an unrestrained pet not only increases the risk of serious or fatal injury for your animal companion, but for the vehicle’s human occupants as well.

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I love this system! Works great and simple to use and set up!

Cushion is not memory foam as described. Dog (40 lbs). Sinks to ground when laying on bed. Will probably end up purchasing my own memory foam instead.

Why make it so the middle row houses the smallest pets, These should go at the top to minimize risk of injury, for both staff and pets,

The sink is awesome. I'm using it as a utility sink in my homebrewing beer hobby. Two things would get it to 5 stars. The unit came disassembled without assembly instructions. I was able to figure it out though. Second, it didn't come with a methodology or hardware to attach it to a wall or the floor. It's heavy, but it could still get knocked out of place, especially bathing a larger animal. Ruptured plumbing could result so securing it in some way is important.

Gunner Kennel Review: The Safest Dog Travel Crate

Categories Adventure Dog , Gear Review

If I had known how much of a difference a Gunner Kennel would change the car riding experience with Sitka, I would have purchased one the day I got him.

Until I had Sitka, I had never really thought about the need to restrain my dog in the car. My other dogs lay quietly in the back, so I didn’t think twice.

Sitka, however, has severe car anxiety. When I picked him up from his foster, they had drugged him with Prednisone because it was so bad. The following day, we went for a trail run sans drugs. Throughout the entire short drive, he whined and paced constantly in the back seat and lunged and barked at passing cars.

I was certain we would get into an accident on the way to the trailhead.

I tried a seat belt and harness combination , but that didn’t work. He could still stand up and turn around and I’d have to pull over frequently to detangle him.

After some research, I realized that the best option would be a crate for the car .

I landed on a Gunner Kennel because my research quickly demonstrated that they are the safest dog travel crates on the market. Not only is Sitka’s car anxiety nearly non-existent while riding in his kennel, but I can drive assured that he will be safe in the event of an accident.

About Gunner Kennels

The founder of Gunner Kennels, Addison Edmonds wanted to create a heavy-duty kennel for his hunting companion, Gunner. He didn’t feel safe using clamshell plastic crates and was frustrated about having to replace lesser quality kennels each year.

So he set off on a mission to build the world’s best dog crate, because he believed that man’s best friend deserved man’s best kennel.

Gunner Kennels are made in the USA and work with over 20 small businesses throughout the country to create the kennels and accessories. In addition, they come with a lifetime warranty.

What Makes Gunner Kennels the Safest Travel Crate for Dogs?

Gunner didn’t cut any corners in the design of this heavy duty pet travel crate. These kennels go above and beyond, using the highest quality materials to create a travel crate that sets industry standards for safe travel crates for dogs.

In an accident with a car traveling 35 mph, a 60-lb dog can become a 2,700-lb projectile, according to Bark Buckle UP .

100,000 dogs are killed annually falling from pickup trucks and even more sustain injuries, according to Ford and the American Humane Association .

In a 2015 test conducted by the Center for Pet Safety , Gunner Kennels were the only crate to pass safety certifications. This means that Gunner Kennels are the safest crates available for dogs traveling in a vehicle.

5-Star Crash Test Rated

Gunner Kennels undergo rigorous in-house safety testing and received a 5-star crash test rating from the Center for Pet Safety .

A few in-house tests include:

• Applying 4,000 pounds of force from a vice machine. The kennel broke the machine.
• Dropping a 630-lb sled from over 8 feet onto the kennel
• Tossing the kennel over a 200-foot cliff
• Shooting at it with a 12-gauge shotgun

Gunner has the videos to prove their tests here .

Double-walled Construction

Gunner Kennels are made from a durable double-wall rotomolded polyethylene, the only such crates on the market, according to the Gunner website. The company designed them this way because it offers at least twice the impact protection than a single-wall crate.

The double-wall construction means that the exterior layer absorbs the majority of the initial impact, while the interior offers protection.

Safety Latches and Locks

Each kennel comes with the ability to lock the paddle latch on the door with a key, as well as with safety latches for extra security. These kennels are escape-artist proof.

Tie-Down Pins

For ultimate safety, Gunner Kennels are equipped with four tie-down stainless steel safety pins that allow you to anchor the kennel to your car to further prevent roll over.

Tie-down straps that meet Gunner’s crash test standards are sold separately, and made with an extra thick cam buckle.

You can read why Gunner believes their tie-down straps are the safest and why they recommend tying down the kennel to your car.

Can withstand Seasonal Elements

Gunner Kennels are designed to withstand inclement weather.

Yet another benefit of the thick walls is that it keeps the kennel cooler than single-wall models.

Gunner conducted a temperature test comparing several kennels left in the sun for hours on a hot day. The results showed that the Gunner displayed the lowest temperature, including a 40° difference between a Gunner lined with a Performance Pad and the kennel with the hottest temperature.

In addition, the non-slip rubber feet raise the crate off the ground. This reduces heat transmission from surfaces and prevents slipping. The ample window vents allow air to circulate well.

Obviously, this doesn’t mean that you can leave your dog unattended in the car on a hot day, but it does mean that they will be more comfortable.

Gunner also sells a fan kit that mounts to the crate to provide additional ventilation.

I have noticed that on really hot days, when I expect Sitka to be panting in his kennel, he’s totally fine when I open the trunk.

If you keep your dog’s kennel in the bed of a truck, an oversized drain plug creates an efficient drainage system to eliminate any water that entered the crate in rainy weather. You can also purchase a weather kit to keep your dog dry if you are traveling in inclement weather.

Customer Testimonials

Gunner has a page sharing story after story from dozens of customers who were in terrible car accidents where their dogs emerged completely fine.

I personally know of someone who was involved in a car accident with her two dogs. She was T-boned by a car running a red light at 50 mph. Her car flipped twice and she landed facing the opposite direction she was driving. A witness said that her car was completely airborne.

First responders had to use the Jaws of Life to pry the hatch open to get the dogs out. Her dogs emerged from their kennels with just a few scratches. Sammy was also ok, suffering a mild concussion and bruising.

Will a Gunner Kennel Fit in My Car?

Gunner has a nifty fit finder app that takes into account your car, dog’s dimensions, and intended use. 

Additionally, Gunner has a customer gallery with photos of real setups. You can filter by make and model and dog size and breed to see if anyone in the gallery has a similar setup.

My Personal Gunner Kennel Set Up

Sitka weighs 42 lbs and I have a G1 Medium kennel for him. I drive a 2012 Subaru Forester and keep the kennel in the rear, with the rear seats folded down, however the kennel fits with the seats up, as well.

I strap the kennel to the car seat lock and the strap latch in the trunk of my car. Since I have it to one side and use the space in my trunk frequently, I loop the straps around the kennel. It’s not the perfect safety set up, but I think it’s better than nothing and it feels very secure to me.

Finding the Right Kennel Size for Your Dog

The fit of the Gunner Kennel will be more snug than what you’re used to with the crate you use at home . 

In fact, it may even seem too small, depending on the size of your dog. I thought I had made a mistake by ordering the G1 Medium for Sitka, but Gunner assured me it was the perfect size.

It took Sitka a couple weeks to adapt to the small, dark space, but now, he can’t wait to hop in.

The reason for the snug fit is because it offers more protection to the dog in the event of an accident. The less space they can tumble around, the better.

Gunner also found that dogs feel more secure when traveling in a tighter area, and I can confirm this. My whiny, car-anxious dog is totally quiet in his Gunner Kennel. Sometimes, he’s so quiet, I call his name to make sure he’s still alive back there.

Dimensions and Guidelines

While Gunner can’t guarantee a perfect fit based on dimensions, you can use their fit guidelines to make a best guess and schedule a call to discuss with a team member.

Gunner Kennels sell direct to consumer, which means that unless you know someone who has one, you won’t be able to try it on for size prior to ordering. Gunner does, however, offer consultation calls to help customers find the right fit

In general, here is what Gunner recommends based on size and weight of your dog:

• G1 Small fits most dogs up to 30 lb
• Interior dimensions – 21.75″ (L) x 14.5″ (W) x 15.5″ (H)
• G1 Medium fits most dogs up to 45 lb.
• Interior dimensions – 25″ (L) x 18″ (W) x 19.75″ (H)
• G1 Intermediate fits most dogs up to 75 lb.
• Interior dimensions – 30″ (L) x 18″ (W) x 25″ (H)
• G1 Large fits most dogs up to 110 lb.
• Interior dimensions – 33.25″(L) x 21″(W) x 29″(H)

Exceptional Customer Service

When I was figuring out what size kennel to get for Sitka, I had some trouble determining the best fit. Gunner offers 1:1 15-minute video consultations to help with sizing.

I scheduled an appointment online and spoke with someone a few days later. 

After the kennel arrived, I was worried it was too small, so I booked another call. Since it was a video consult, I could take my phone out to my car and have Sitka hop inside, in order to show the team member how he fit. He was able to assure me that the size was perfect.

Being able to have dedicated one-on-one time with a company representative was pretty amazing.

Is a Gunner Kennel Worth the Money?

Gunner Kennels are not exactly cheap. The smallest size starts at $499 and goes up to $799. Plus, there’s the additional cost of any accessories that you buy, and those ain’t cheap either.

They are certainly an investment, and I personally believe they are one worth making.

Here’s why: Peace of mind.

If you are in an accident, and your dog is saved because of the kennel, it is worth every penny and more for the life of your dog.

Moreover, keeping your dog in a kennel can prevent accidents from happening in the first place. I guarantee you that Sitka’s anxiety would eventually have caused an accident if I hadn’t tackled the problem.

The fact is, Gunner Kennels are one of, if not the safest dog crates for car travel on the market and they have proven time and time again that they keep dogs alive.

If you can’t afford the payment in one shot, Gunner does offer financing to make it easier on the wallet.

I had initially purchased a Dakota 283 because the Gunner Kennel was a bit out of my price range for me at the time. While I still think the Dakota 283 is an exceptional dog crate for the car (it’s a good choice if you can’t save up for the Gunner), the ease of finding information, frequent tests, customer testimonies, and accessibility to the Gunner team wins me over.

Can You Fly with a Gunner Kennel?

The short answer is yes, Gunner Kennels meet most airline requirements , and due to its durability, escape-proof door, and superior climate control, they would make an ideal kennel for flying. 

The longer answer is that the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has strict standards for pets, requiring they can fully stand up, turn around, and lie down in the crate comfortably. 

While Sitka can do all of these things in his crate, I’m not certain this setup would meet IATA guidelines since the fit is so snug.

Where to Buy a Gunner Kennel

Gunner is a direct to consumer model, which means that gunner.com is the only authorized retailer of GUNNER products. They chose to use this model in order to ensure the quality of the kennels sold.

If you live in Canada, you can purchase one from an Ontario company called K9Dynamics to significantly reduce the cost of shipping ($435 vs $93.80 CDN).

Parting Thoughts

Gunner has put A LOT of thought into the design and safety of these kennels. I truly believe that they will keep my dog alive, even in an extreme car accident.

I love that I can easily find all of the information I want and need on their website, ranging from safety tests, fit and size questions, and customer testimonials. It’s all there.

Gunner has put these kennels to the test with the strongest possible force they can find. That, plus the numerous stories from customers who have been in accidents proves that these kennels are practically indestructible. 

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Best Dog Car Seats, Carriers, and Restraints of 2024

In our quest to find the best dog car seats, we consulted with the experts at the Center for Pet Safety to learn about their testing to determine the safest choices.

If you have a pet, you understand they're more than just a furry roommate—they're family. As pet owners, we're responsible for their food, water, and safety at home, but how do we best care for them in our vehicles?

In our quest to find the best dog and cat car seats and restraints, we turned to the Center for Pet Safety (CPS) for insight. This group is widely regarded as the only nonprofit consumer advocacy organization dedicated to pet safety. We spoke with founder and CEO Lindsey Wolko about CPS's rigorous testing and certification programs that separate pet safety facts from marketing fiction.

Our Top Picks

Best Pet Car Crate

Gunner g1 kennel.

Best Pet Harness

Sleepypod clickit sport.

Best for Airline Travel

Diggs travel pet carrier.

Best for Cats and Small Dogs

Sleepypod mobile pet bed.

Best Budget Crate

Cabela's gundog intermediate kennel, things to consider.

We love our pets—and we're sure you love yours too. But it's important to know that, like your child (it is your fur baby, after all!), your pet should always be secured—and, preferably, contained—when your vehicle is in motion. That is to say, those simple open pet car seats (like home pet beds) are not enough; the CPS does not recommend them, and we wouldn't use them for our pets, so we declined to include them in this test or this article.

If you're shopping for a cheap, unrestrained pet car seat, you'll need to look elsewhere. But if you want to keep your pet safe while driving, here's what you need to know about car pet carriers and harnesses.

Safety and Independent Testing

While consumables like pet food, treats, and pharmaceuticals are subject to premarket standards, dog and cat car seats are not. This lack of regulation means that any restraint can claim to be safe for your pet.

To ensure your pet's safety, the Gear Team recommends choosing restraints tested by the leading independent pet product testing group, the Center for Pet Safety (CPS). All restraints mentioned in this article have met the CPS's strict criteria. The guidance in this article is directly from CPS, and we thank them for their mission and assistance in creating this informative piece.

Pet seats fall into three categories: crate , carrier , and harness . A crate is generally used for larger dogs and placed in your SUV hatch or truck bed, then secured with tie-down straps to anchor points. A carrier is for smaller dogs and cats (generally under 18 pounds), portable, and secured to the rear seat using seatbelts and headrests. The last is the harness , which rests on a dog's upper body and is secured by the seatbelt.

Harness : The industry standard for harnesses is the "two-finger fit," meaning that a harness is a good fit if you can comfortably fit two fingers between it and the pet's body. CPS implements this fit standard in its testing.

Carrier: When choosing a carrier, pay close attention to the weight rating and the measurement of your dog's body. A pet can feasibly fit into the weight rating but may be too leggy to fit comfortably inside. If you are unsure, weighing and measuring your pet is recommended. Carriers are usually suitable for both cats and dogs.

Crate: A snug fit is critical for crates. This video from Gunner Kennels does an excellent job of demonstrating the importance of a snug fit for your dog. Too much room leaves your dog vulnerable to additional g-forces within the restraint system, so ensure you get the correct measurements and the right-size crate for your animal.

While these restraints are tested for vehicle safety, they are also ideal for other types of travel. If you and your small pet fly regularly, consider a duffle-style carrier that fits onto luggage and underneath plane seats.

You may be a little shell-shocked by the prices, but consider these an investment. Companies that offer safety-certified products have spent considerable time and money to prove their product will protect you and your pet. Also, it's important to remember that if your pet is injured in an accident, the vet bill will likely far exceed the price of the car seat.

How Dog Car Seats & Restraints Were Evaluated

When purchasing a pet restraint for the car, safety should be every pet owner's primary concern. Cost and convenience can be factors, but they should never be the deciding ones. Given that crash testing with live pets is not feasible, we relied on the expertise and data from a leading pet-product advocacy group. However, subjective analysis is also crucial.

We asked the Car and Driver staff to bring their pets in for a photo shoot on testing day. Our work mainly consisted of installing the seats into our long-term Toyota Tundra to understand the ease of use and features that each seat offered. In this test, our role as the Gear Team was to evaluate the following aspects:

• Installation
• CPS safety testing guidance

Note: All products featured were purchased using a personal account. Companies were not made aware of this test.

How the Experts Test Pet Car Carriers

As for things like crash testing, etc., obviously we weren't going to put our personal pets at risk or crash any cars. Instead, we relied on testing data obtained from the experts at the Center for Pet Safety .

CPS grades on a point system for specific elements and uses high-level measurement tools like digital calipers and high-speed cameras to assess their work. The testing elements below are not the entirety of their scientific approach to testing, but they are intended to give you a good idea of what they are looking at to ensure safety. We thank CPS for their hard work.

CPS has strict criteria for passing these products. All products are tested at 30 mph.

• Tested on second-row benches
• Excursion distances (how far the pet launches forward)
• Strap movement (how much does the harness loosen during impact)
• The legs of a pet cannot come loose during impact, the harness cannot break, and any product with an extension tether is immediately disqualified
• Excursion distances (how far the carrier launches forward)
• Carrier lift (measuring the largest angle between the bottom of the carrier and the bench seat)
• Stitching and zippers must remain intact
• Strapping at anchor points cannot tear or rip
• If any part of the carrier fails, allowing the pet to escape, the carrier automatically fails

CRATES + STRAPS

• Tested on carpeted sled machine (to simulate rear SUV hatch and truck bed)
• The doors and windows must remain closed and locked
• The crate and straps cannot fracture or break in any way
• All crates must be anchored down with straps that the company provides

The Best Pet Car Seats, Harnesses, and Restraints

It's rare that we open a box and are immediately impressed, but that's what happened with the Gunner G1. Gunner car kennels are designed and marketed with hunters in mind, yet we see no reason this crate wouldn't be an excellent fit for anyone with a dog. We'd be hard-pressed to find a city-, suburban-, or country-living pet owner who wouldn't be captivated by this crate. It's that good.

The double-wall, rotomolded design results in sturdy walls. The robust door features three locking points—one key and two slider locks. And it comes in small, medium, intermediate, and large sizes. The small G1 is certified for the back seat and rear installation, while the other sizes must be in the truck bed or cargo hold only. Basically, the Gunner G1 car kennel is a tank and is clearly built to last. But quality comes at a cost, and its materials and construction also mean it's relatively heavy and quite cumbersome.

Safety Testing

Gunner has done its work in research, development, and safety. In the video below, you'll see some sliding about, but the carrier's shape remains intact, the straps stay attached, and the door stays secure. Gunner has also tested with other third-party facilities, including running this enlightening drop-crushing test to simulate crumple zones in a car accident.

Notably, the G1 needs to be strapped down, of course, and Gunner's accessory straps will set you back another $100. Now, while it would appear normal ratcheting cargo straps might work just fine to secure the crate, CPS does not certify non-OEM equipment. So, use your own straps at your own risk. (Moreover, CPS notes that the Large G1 did not pass its safety certification process.)

Still, there is plenty of anecdotal evidence by real users on the company's testimonials page . Real dogs in Gunner kennels are coming out unscathed after some pretty gnarly pickup-truck accidents. If that doesn't convince you that Gunner kennels are the best car pet crates you can buy, we don't know what will.

If you're looking for a walking harness and a safety-certified car restraint, the Sleepypod Clickit Sport is the perfect choice . The front portion of the harness is lined with a shock-absorbing padded vest. The back portion is typical of most walking harnesses, except for the addition of two automotive-grade seatbelt loops connecting the harness's top to the bottom. Using the vehicle's seatbelts, you run the latch plate through the two harness loops and into the buckle, and now you have a properly secured pet.

We were initially apprehensive, thinking a restraint on a dog's back might be agitating. Yet, when we secured Bodie to the seatbelt, he seemed perfectly content, and we could see it wasn't pulling with much pressure. The seatbelt is not meant to lock, so your pet should be able to sit up, lie down, and shift position comfortably. It turns out that what we thought would be a problem wasn't much of one, at least for Bodie.

While we (and Bodie) were pleasantly surprised by the Clickit Sport, we must admit the harness's double-looped strap system required serious brain power. Instead of pulling out your hair like us, we suggest you watch this instructional video on how to do it.

For the harness testing, CPS looks at "excursion measurements," meaning they are concerned with how far the pet will travel after impact. Paying attention to the red and yellow flags shows that the chest generally stays within the first flag. This is partly because of the seatbelt locking up but also, in part, because of the tight double-loop strapping mentioned above. CPS marks the initial buckle placement during testing and measures the loosening distance after impact. After realizing this was a testing parameter, it makes sense why the harness uses such a complex adjustment design.

Regarding harnesses, we were surprised that the product didn't come with an extension. Like many people, we imagine dog restraints in cars with a harness attached to the seatbelt buckle or headrest. However, it turns out this setup is categorically unsafe for your pet. "Extension tethers are extraordinarily dangerous," Wolko says. "If a brand includes an extension tether or component, they are automatically disqualified from participating in [CPS testing]." Wolko emphasized this in our interview. Read more in our FAQs.

The Diggs Travel Pet Carrier was designed with both automotive and airplane travelers in mind. The carrier stacks on top of your roller luggage, secured by a firm strap on the carrier that threads through the handle. It has several storage pockets to access your passport, phone, leash, etc., quickly.

Staff photographer Michael Simari took the Diggs home to test with his cats. "My cats immediately checked it out and even went in on their own, which never happens," Simari says. "They avoid carriers at all costs." After a few days of acclimation, his cats freely entered the carrier, and he could buckle them up in the car. While we know this is anecdotal and every pet will be different, if a couple of carrier-apprehensive cats were comfortable after a single weekend, we reckon Diggs is on to something.

For installation, there are three anchoring points to consider. First, you wrap the waist belt around the bottom of the carrier and loop it through two swivel clamps. Next, connect the chest belt over a clip loop at the carrier's top. Our main beef about the Diggs is that it didn't come with instructions, so we had to go digging online for this TikTok how-to . This was not a huge barrier for us, but it could be a big deal to someone who isn't digitally proficient.

For testing carriers, CPS is concerned with how far the carrier launches forward, the lift angle, and whether or not any features like zippers and stitching failed. In the footage, you can see the red and yellow flags that show the farthest a carrier can travel and still pass, and the Diggs Travel Pet Carrier stayed well behind the limit.

If you appreciate functionality and a unique aesthetic, the Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed might suit you. Its round shape sets it apart from other carriers on the market, and in our professional opinion, pets somehow seem even more precious in a round carrier than a square one.

We especially liked that the Sleepypod doubles as a bed, seamlessly integrating the carrier into your pet's daily life. Since getting a cat into the car can be stressful, we appreciate that the Sleepypod considers the entirety of a pet's relationship with the carrier. Adapting the bed into a carrier is easy—slip the mesh dome over the bed, zip it up, and your pet is now secure in a safe space.

Installation is straightforward. The lap portion of the seatbelt wraps around the bottom of the round bed, and the shoulder portion is routed through the security strap at the top of the dome. The only difficulty we had with the carrier was fitting the security straps back through the plastic clips. We figured it was a tight squeeze to meet safety standards, but it was definitely a struggle.

During impact testing, forward motion is relatively contained by the safety belt attached to the lap and shoulder strap. The rebound lift is minimal, and the hefty zippers and straps remain intact even with the pet noticeably rebounding inside.

Sleepypod has tested all its products with CPS. While we are specifically featuring the Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed, it's important to note that the Sleepypod Atom (five stars), Sleepypod Mini (five stars), Sleepypod Air (four stars), and both of their harnesses are also CPS certified.

GunDog is Cabela's line of hunting-dog accessories, and the Intermediate Kennel might be your best bet for an affordable crate. This crate is like other ones you're probably familiar with—a single-wall molded plastic crate with a stainless-steel door. The handles are part of the molding, making them sturdy and easy to move. Plus, it's lightweight, so our testing team found it easy to shift around.

While the GunDog doesn't have many standout features, its simplicity is its strength. In a world of bells and whistles, Cabela's has kept it straightforward. It comes in one color, includes straps, uses an additional manual slide lock for security, and is molded as a single-body construction. It's nothing flashy, but the price reflects that. It's simple yet effective, making it a great budget option for a safety-tested crate.

The main complaint we have about the Gun Dog is the strap-down pattern. The crate must be strapped correctly to maintain the safety certification. But boy, did we find it challenging to get right. We recommend double- and triple-checking your work, especially if spatial awareness is not your strong suit. Incorrect strapping could unknowingly put your pet at risk during transport.

The Center for Pet Safety awarded the Cabela's GunDog crate five stars, meaning it has passed the main parameters: The doors remained locked, sliding is minimal, straps did not break, and the crate isn't fractured or broken.

However, while the crate meets safety standards, it may deform during impact, as seen in the footage. "It did have a fair amount of crush," Wolko says. "But it popped right back into place when we removed those straps."

What is a dog car seat?

A pet car seat or restraint is specially designed for safely transporting pets in your vehicle. Like any unrestrained car occupant, if your pet is not restrained correctly, it can become a projectile within the cabin during an accident, causing injury or worse. A crate, carrier, or restraint should contain your pet during and after an accident.

The Gear Team recommends purchasing only carriers and car seats tested and approved by the Center for Pet Safety.

Can my cat use any of these carriers?

Yes, any carrier within the carrier category is suitable for cats, as long as they fit comfortably and are within the weight restriction.

How can I be sure my pet seat has been adequately tested?

This article features only a handful of dog car seats, and several more are on the market that meet strict safety criteria. If you want to explore more products that CPS has tested, visit their website at www.centerforpetsafety.org . You can learn more about other tested and certified products under the "CPS Certified" tab.

Are dog and pet car seats easy to install?

While these seats have passed rigorous testing, their effectiveness relies on proper attachment to the anchoring points. This ensures that in an accident, the carrier will perform as expected. Always read and practice installation instructions for optimal results.

Can pet car seats be used in all types of vehicles?

Yes and no. Harnesses are generally compatible with all seatbelt restraint systems. Carriers are compatible with seatbelt restraint systems but should be used in the second row. Crates are compatible with the rear hatch of a larger SUV and truck bed. Always confirm with the seat manufacturer before purchase that your car is compatible.

Can dog car seats accommodate more than one dog?

Would you put two kids in a child car seat ? Probably not. One carrier/restraint per pet, please.

Why can't I attach my dog's harness and leash to the anchor points of my car?

If you decide to go the harness route, you should be clear about the difference between distraction and crash-safety devices. A harness attached to any extension tether may effectively prevent driver distraction, but it is categorically unsafe for the pet during an accident. According to CPS, any harness with an extension rope as part of their product is automatically disqualified for crash-safety certification. This video does an excellent job of explaining the risks of a harness-plus-extension combination during an automotive collision.

Why Trust Us

Hearst Autos combines the talent, resources, and expertise of three of the largest, most influential automotive publications in the world. The Gear Team has tested a wide variety of automotive products, parts, accessories, and gear, such as dash cams , portable jump starters , and snow brooms and ice scrapers . We get our hands on each and every product we test. Most are purchased; some are supplied by manufacturers.

Hearst Autos doesn't need to game algorithms for traffic or promote lousy products. We're more concerned with our legacy, our reputation, and the trust that our readers have in Car and Driver , Autoweek , and Road & Track to deliver honest opinions and expert evaluations.

Visit our Tested & Trusted page to see the very best in automotive gear. Read more about our product testing and evaluation process here .

Katherine Keeler is an Assistant Testing Editor at Hearst Autos. By day she evaluates tools for your enjoyment; by night, she Frankenstein’s her ever changing fleet of rust-bucket-oddities back to repair. Her dream is to open a roadside attraction where the public can view, drive, and learn repairs at her emporium of curious cars.

Collin Morgan is a Commerce Editor at Hearst Autos, where the former Rust Belt mechanic and gadget enthusiast presents the best gear for your automotive endeavors.

Gannon Burgett loves cameras, cars, and coffee: a perfect combination for his Hearst Autos work. His byline has appeared in USA Today , Gizmodo , TechCrunch , Digital Trends , the Detroit Free Press , and more.

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Our Picks for the Top Dog Ramps for Cars, Trucks, and SUVs

You and your pet can say hello to the open road—and mobility solutions—with the best dog ramps for cars.

With dogs and cars in mind, the Gear Team set out to find the best dog ramps on the market. Many of them are relatively similar, functionally, so we specifically looked for different styles of dog ramps to spotlight. Here's what we found.

More Gear: Best Dog Seat Covers | Road Trip Essentials | Best Road Trip Luggage

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Snagle paw the longest pet ramp.

Best Premium

Weathertech easyramp.

Best Stairs

Kll extra-wide portable dog car stair.

Best For Cars

Petstep dog ramp side door entry kit.

Best Tow Hitch Step

Otto step pet ramp step.

Best Budget

Coziwow folding dog ramp, things to consider.

As with any purchase, before you buy you should take a moment to reflect and consider a few things so that you get the ramp that best suits the needs of you and your furry companion.

Ramp Design

Consider the design that best fits not just your vehicle's needs, but also your dog's. There are different types of dog ramps available, including folding , telescoping , and bi-fold ramps. Folding ramps are typically more compact and easier to store, while telescoping ramps offer adjustable lengths for various vehicle heights. Bi-fold ramps, as the name implies, simply fold in half.

As for fitment, most ramps are universal and can be used with any vehicle with a hatch, tailgate, or sliding side door. Some ramps are designed specifically for use in car doors, while others are pet-specific bump steps that hook onto the tow hitch. Longer ramps are better for older, disabled, and injured pets; they're also preferred for vehicles with higher ground clearances like full-size trucks, 4x4s, and Jeeps.

Surface Traction

Look for a dog ramp with a nonslip surface to provide traction and stability for your pet as they climb in and out of the vehicle. Textured or ribbed surfaces help prevent slipping and ensure your dog feels secure while using the ramp.

Portability and Storage

Consider the portability and storage of the dog ramp, especially if you plan to travel frequently with your pet. Choose a ramp that is lightweight, foldable, and easy to transport, with features like carrying handles or straps for added convenience.

Training Your Pet to Use a Car Ramp

• Place the ramp flat on the ground and lead your pet across with treats and praise.
• Put food or toys at one end of the ramp to guide first steps.
• Using treats and praise frequently, guide your dog back and forth along the ramp until they're comfortable walking it on their own.
• Once your pet is comfortable with the ramp, move your training session to the vehicle where the ramp will be used.

The Best Dog Car Ramps

The name says it all. At 71 inches, this is the longest dog car ramp we could find. A longer ramp means a gentler angle for your pet, which is easier on old joints. We named the Snagle Paw our Best Overall because it's ideal for short-legged dogs, dogs with disabilities, and injured dogs. It's also perfect for dog owners who drive pickups, 4x4s, Jeeps, and other vehicles with high clearance. Finally, it's comparatively lightweight and strong, and its three stages fold up tighter than a bi-fold ramp.

The walking surface of the dog ramp is covered with high-traction fabric rug material, and the ramp itself is made of high-grade but lightweight aluminum that can support up to 250 pounds.

71 by 17 by 3 inches (Length/width/height, deployed); 19 by 17 by 5.5 inches (folded). Weight: 18 pounds.

The EasyRamp could've been our Best Overall 2.0. WeatherTech usually makes good stuff, and this distinctive dog ramp is no exception. Two separate ramp panels allow for a less steep incline than a single ramp could. The ramp itself weighs 16 pounds and can support up to 300 pounds.

If you prefer a more simple, single-ramp design, WeatherTech also offers a PetRamp ( $135 at Amazon ). The PetRamp shares its 300-pound weight capacity with the EasyRamp but could have a steeper incline. The PetRamp is a bit more affordable and compact, but we like that the EasyRamp provides a wider range of accessibility.

Ramps: 42 by 15 inches (L/W); stool: 10 by 15 by 15 inches (L/W/H). Weight: 21 pounds.

We like this unit because steps provide an alternative to ramps that some pets might find easier to negotiate. Its folding design makes opening, closing, and storage simple. Each step features a nonslip surface, and the aluminum frame allows it to stay relatively lightweight while supporting up to 200 pounds.

The obvious downside to this style of ramp is that not every dog is good with stairs, particularly if your dog is sight-impaired. Nonetheless, those whose dogs can comfortably navigate steps should take a real look at these. There is also a five-step version with the fifth step for added traction at the base ( $110 at Amazon ).

43 by 20 by 36 inches (L/W/H, folded). Weight: 10 pounds.

PetStep makes a wide range of canine mobility aids, but we like the side door entry kit for its approach to aiding your pet's ingress and egress. It uses a strap that attaches to the top of your door frame and to the ramp, helping to prop up the ramp in your vehicle's door sill and keep it in place. They've even coated the door hook with rubber to prevent it from damaging your door frame.

The ramp itself is made of composite plastic and fiberglass and features a grippy rubber surface for your pup to walk on. It can support up to a massive 500 pounds.

70 by 17 by 2.5 inches (L/W/H, deployed); 36 by 17 by 5.8 inches (folded). Weight: 18.5 pounds.

We like this step for its simplicity. You simply slide it into any two-inch hitch receiver, and you're good to go. While weighing only about five pounds, it can support up to 200 and has a grippy nonslip surface. The downside of this one is that it is really only good for able-bodied pets as it doesn't exactly provide a ramp solution, but it is a fantastic in-between, particularly if you drive a tall vehicle.

16 by 18 by 2 inches (L/W/H). Weight: 5.8 pounds.

This ramp from Coziwow is simple, effective, and, most notably, affordable. It can be folded away when not in use and features a grippy surface and even side rails. It's lightweight but can support up to a respectable 150 pounds.

It's ideal for cars, mid-size SUVs, and minivans. It's also great for use around the house and for RVs.

62 by 16 by 5.5 inches (L/W/H, deployed); 31 by 16 by 7 inches (folded). Weight: 10 pounds.

Are there weight limits for dog car ramps?

Yes, dog car ramps typically have weight limits ranging from around 100 to 200 pounds, depending on the ramp's size, construction, and materials. It's essential to select a ramp that can safely support your dog's weight to prevent accidents or damage to the ramp.

Can I use a dog ramp for other purposes besides in cars, trucks, and SUVs?

Yes, dog ramps can be used for various purposes besides with vehicles, such as helping your dog access furniture, beds, or stairs in your home. Many pets live with their humans in RVs, with dogs a common sight in social media posts about #vanlife.

What angle should a dog car ramp be?

This is purely subjective, depending on the height of your vehicle—and your dog's condition.

How do I train my dog to use a ramp?

Training your dog to use a ramp involves positive reinforcement and patience. Start by placing treats or toys on the ramp to encourage your dog to walk on it and gradually increase their confidence with short training sessions.

Why Trust Us?

Road & Track and its sibling publications at Hearst Autos represent three of the most influential automotive publications in the world. We rely on decades of experience in the automotive and gear spaces to help readers make informed purchasing choices. Read more about our testing process here .

With the legacies of Autoweek, Car and Driver, and Road & Track behind us, the Hearst Autos Gear Team is more concerned with the trust our readers have in us than our bottom line. We won't tell you to buy something if we wouldn't buy it ourselves or recommend it to our friends, and we'll never claim to have used or tested something we haven't.

We've evaluated dozens of product categories, like electric bikes , wiper blades , and radar detectors . Our picks and recommendations of products and gear are based on testing and knowledge, not hype.

The Assistant Commerce Editor for Hearst Autos, Justin Helton is an enthusiast with a passion for heavily depreciated autos and a penchant for philosophical debate. As a lifelong Manhattanite, he has mastered the ins and outs of classic car ownership in one of the least car-friendly cities in the world.

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Best airline-approved pet carriers for travel in 2024

Spring break is nearly here, and summer travel is just on the horizon. About 70% of American households have at least one pet and 78% of pet owners travel with their pets . That means traveling with the right airline-approved pet carrier can be a vacation game changer this summer. 

The experts at CBS Essentials have done the heavy lifting, finding the best pet carriers that suit your furry friend's needs. Keep reading for our picks for the best airline-approved pet carriers of 2024. Now all you have to do is book your flight.

The best airline-approved pet carriers for travel in 2024

Explore our top picks to find the perfect carrier for your furry friend's next travel adventure.

Best for frequent fliers: Away The Pet Carrier

• Best 2-in-1 carrier and travel bed : Wild One travel carrier
• Best for easy clean-up : Diggs Passenger pet carrier
• Best dog crate for travel : Impact collapsible dog crate
• Best pet backpack for travel : PetAmi pet backpack
• Best for pets traveling in cargo : Petmate Sky Kennel

Most versatile travel carrier: Lesure 2-in-1 pet backpack and travel carrier

• Best 5-in-1 pet carrier and stroller : Ibiyaya 5-in-1 combo pet carrier

Learn more about each of our selections below.

The Pet Carrier from Away luggage transports canine or feline friends in sleek style. It features sherpa bedding to feel like an at-home pet bed and is lined with water-resistant material in case of accidents.

Latch this pet carrier via a sleeve to your Away luggage when you're on the move.  

"I bought two of these for my 8-pound dachshund mix and my 14-pound cavalier. Both fit comfortably and have plenty of space," says one reviewer. "I love the clasps on the back that attach to the seatbelt. We also took them on a Southwest flight and had no issues with the carriers fitting under the seat side by side."

Why we like Away The Pet Carrier:

• It holds pets up to 18 pounds.
• It's water-resistant for easy clean-up.
• It meets Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements.

Best 2-in-1 carrier and travel bed: Wild One travel carrier

Wild One, a brand focused solely on furry friends, has constructed a streamlined and reasonably priced travel carrier that doubles as an on-the-go pet bed. Mesh walls offer breathability during travel, while the shoulder strap detaches to become a travel leash. The interior cushion also folds down completely, so the carrier can double as a pet bed.

This carrier is airline-compliant and is recommended for use with dogs up to 16 pounds. It's priced at $125.

Why we like the Wild One travel carrier:

• It comes in two classic colors and two limited edition colors.
• It fits under the seat in front of you on airlines.
• The shoulder strap doubles as a leash.

Best for easy clean-up: Diggs Passenger pet carrier

The Diggs Passenger carrier is designed for easy cleaning. You can attach a pee pad to the carrier bed. Then, if your pet gets car sick or has an accident, you can easily swap out the pee pad through the side panel. The carrier meets most airline requirements and has been crash-tested for car travel.

Choose from four colors. One color option is currently on sale.

Why we like the Diggs Passenger carrier:

• It's easy to clean if your pet has an accident.
• The carrier has great ventilation to keep your pet comfortable.
• It was crash-tested and received a 5-star rating from the Center for Pet Safety for car travel.

Best dog crate for travel: Impact collapsible dog crate

Frequent fliers looking for an indestructible crate for travel should consider investing in an Impact collapsible dog crate. Engineered out of military-grade aluminum, these lightweight, stackable crates offer great features, including handles, airline rails and ample ventilation.

It is available in several sizes to accommodate a range of pets. Prices vary by size.

Why we like the Impact collapsible dog crate:

• It's available in seven colors, from neutrals to a bolder pink shade.
• The crate comes with a lifetime guarantee.
• It's made with durable aluminum.

Best pet backpack for travel: PetAmi pet backpack

Those who prefer transporting their pets backpack-style should invest in this highly-rated pet backpack from PetAmi. Designed for small to medium pets, the carrier offers two-sided access, breathable mesh windows, pockets for your personal items and a safety strap to secure your pet during transport. 

"This is so cute and highly functional. I love the support it has for me. It's lightweight and sturdy all at the same time. I also love how roomy it is for my cat." shared one Amazon buyer .

Why we like the PetAmi pet backpack:

• It's available in 13 colors.
• The backpack is TSA-approved for airline travel.
• It fits small dogs and most cats.

Best for pets traveling in cargo: Petmate Sky Kennel

Unfortunately, not all pets can fly in the main cabin of an airplane. Designed for cargo transport, this pet kennel with ventilation on all sides is available in six sizes, ranging from 21 to 48 inches, and protects animals and keeps them safe. 

It meets most airline cargo specifications for easy and safe travel. All sizes include clip-on bowls and ID stickers, while the 21- and 28-inch versions offer a handle for carrying. Make sure to get the right size kennel for your pet: They'll need space to stand, turn around, sit erect or lie down.

Prices vary by size.

Why we like the Petmate Sky Kennel:

• It has 360-degree ventilation for optimal airflow.
• The kennel meets most airline cargo specifications.
• It features a secure four-way vault door.

This TSA-approved pet carrier doubles as a backpack. The carrier features breathable mesh walls, four self-locking zippers and a built-in safety leash so that you can feel confident that your furry friend is secure. 

The two-in-one carrier can attach to your luggage, be worn as a backpack or be carried with standard pet carrier handles. It's suitable for dogs or cats up to 15 pounds.

Why we like the Lesure 2-in-1 pet backpack and travel carrier:

• It easily converts from a standard pet carrier to a backpack.
• The carrier is TSA-approved and airline-compliant.
• It comes in three colors.

Best 5-in-1 pet carrier and stroller: Ibiyaya 5-in-1 combo pet carrier  

This compact in-flight pet carrier and stroller is manufactured to baby stroller standards and quickly converts to fit all your travel needs.

This pet carrier is currently priced at $202, reduced from $225.

Why we like this 5-in-1 pet carrier and strolle r:

• This carrier can easily be converted into a shoulder carrier, a dog back pack carrier, a pet car seat, a dog stroller, or a pet carrier with wheels.
• It's compacted and converted within minutes.
• This carrier is EVA airline-approved.

What to consider when buying a pet carrier

Each airline has its own set of rules regarding pets traveling with you inside the plane, or placed underneath the aircraft in the cargo hold. If your pet is traveling with you inside the plane, its carrier will need to fit underneath the seat in front of you. Generally speaking, that means your in-flight pet carrier shouldn't exceed 45 linear inches (length + width + height), or roughly 21.5 by 15.5 by 9 inches -- according to AAA .

For dog crates traveling as cargo, the crate must be enclosed, but have ventilation openings occupying at least 16% of total wall space on two opposing walls. The crate must open easily, but should also be durable enough to sustain normal cargo transit logistics (loading, unloading and transportation). When shopping for airline-approved pet carriers, it's a good idea to check your carrier's website first for restrictions.

Most soft-sided travel carriers fit comfortably underneath the seat in front of you so your pet stays close to you during the flight. Common features include mesh sides or windows for breathability, removable pads for comfort, straps to attach the carrier to a seat belt or your luggage and pockets to stash essentials.

If your pet can only fly in the cargo space underneath the plane, look for hard-sided pet carriers to offer the most protection during the flight.

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

American Airlines changes pet policy, allows passengers to bring carry-on with pet carrier

Good news for pet owners! American Airlines is relaxing its pet policy and allowing those who travel with their animal companions to bring a full-size carry-on too, along with the pet carrier.

"On flights with American you can bring one pet carrier as a carry-on if: You pay the carry-on pet fee; Your pet stays in the pet carrier and under the seat in front of you the entire flight," says American Airline's on their website , adding that passengers can also bring "one additional item on board with your pet," which can be a personal item like a purse or small handbag or a carry-on bag that fits in the overhead bin and meets the airline's requirements .

"Remember, you can only bring one with your pet carrier, not both," says American.

Earlier, travelers with pets were only allowed to bring a small personal item, that could fit under the seat if they were bringing their pet onboard. Anything bigger than that, like a carry-on, was required to be checked for $35. Alternatively, pet owners could put their pet in the cargo hold if they wanted to bring a bigger item with them on the flight.

However, there has been no change in fees required to bring a pet onboard. That remains fixed at $150, as per the American Airline's website. Meanwhile, pet strollers are still required to be checked in and all checked bag fees apply.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

American Airlines did not immediately respond to USA TODAY's request for comment and what prompted the relaxation in policy.

Flying with a dog? Here’s how to ensure a smooth flight for your pet

Traveling with pets

Even with the relaxation in policy, experts advise thoughtful planning and research before traveling with pets and considering factors such as choosing a pet-friendly airline, insurance and preparing your pet for the journey ahead of time.

Every airline has its own guidelines for traveling with pets and the websites for domestic carriers like Southwest , JetBlue , American , Alaska , United and Delta each spell out what pets can travel where and the requirements for a carrier that can fit under the seat.

There are limitations on the number of pets a passenger can travel with on different aircrafts and travelers are advised to go through the airline policies before making their travel plans and booking tickets.

Similarly, country-based restrictions also apply, and travelers are advised to understand pet-entry requirements for their destination county when traveling abroad.

Saman Shafiq is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter @saman_shafiq7.

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BARK Introduces New Era of Travel Made for Dogs with the Launch of BARK Air

Apr 11, 2024

Dogs Fly First: BARK Announces First-of-its-Kind Travel Experience Tailored to Dogs Starting May 2024.

NEW YORK, N.Y., April 11, 2024 – BARK, Inc. (NYSE: BARK) (“BARK” or the “Company”), a leading global omnichannel dog brand with a mission to make all dogs happy, today announced it has partnered with a jet charter company to launch BARK Air. BARK Air is the world’s first air travel experience designed specifically for dogs first, and their human companions second, enabling them to travel together comfortably and conveniently. Starting today, premium flights for dogs (and their humans) are available for booking, with the first flights taking off from New York on Thursday, May 23.

Traveling long distances with a dog is a challenge many dog parents face, particularly for those dogs that don’t fit into a carrier that can be placed under the seat in front. Too often, dogs are denied travel, confined to a duffle bag, or endure the stress of flying in cargo. Recognizing these challenges, and the increasing demand for an accessible solution, BARK Air presents a more fun – and humane – option for dogs traveling with their two-legged human companions. BARK Air exemplifies BARK’s dog-first mentality and award-winning customer experience, setting a new standard for dogs who love to travel but have been forced to settle for less-than-ideal traveling conditions.

“When we started BARK in 2011, we were on a mission to disrupt the dog space and create products designed for dogs and their humans. We are excited to take the insights we’ve learned over the years to create an experience that is truly dog-first, which is drastically different from just accepting dogs – from the ground to the skies,” said Matt Meeker, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer at BARK. “We believe this initiative will elevate awareness of our brand’s mission and values, introduce more dog lovers to the BARK family, and help enrich the lives of dogs and their people around the world.”

BARK Air has taken the white glove experience typical of a human’s first-class experience and redirected all that pampering to pooches – from booking to arrival, to in-flight services and disembarkation, dogs will truly be the VIPs and treated to a positively luxurious, curated experience.

• Following booking, humans will be contacted by a BARK Air concierge to collect information about each dog and their human’s travel plans to ensure the best possible experience.
• On travel day, dogs and their companions will arrive at the airport 45 to 60 minutes before takeoff for a simple, efficient check-in process where dogs can meet other furry friends on their flight while their people are treated to meals prepared by onsite chefs – no crates, stressful TSA checkpoints, or screening,
• Before boarding, a highly skilled BARK Air concierge will welcome dogs at the gate to help them settle into their experience through socialization and dog-centric cabin preparation. The BARK Air concierge will also evaluate each dog to ensure they are enjoying their experience and adapting to the new environment and if additional attention and care is needed prior to boarding or once on board.
• Also prior to boarding, the plane will be treated to a “Dogs Fly First” flight prep with calming pheromones, music, and colors that pups prefer. All furry passengers will have access to various aids such as calming treats, noise-canceling ear muffs, and calming jackets to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable flight.
• Once onboard, dogs will be served their beverage of choice during ascent and descent to ensure they do not experience any ear discomfort commonly caused by changes in cabin pressure. Additionally, a variety of BARK-branded treats, snacks, and surprises will be provided throughout the flight with the intent of pampering furry passengers and their humans.

At launch, routes will serve the New York City metro area via Westchester County Airport (HPN) with flights to the Los Angeles area via Van Nuys (VNY) and London, England via Stansted Airport (STN). Through the partnership, an Argus Platinum-rated charter company is responsible for all aircraft, crew, maintenance, and insurance-related matters, while BARK is focused on creating and delivering a world-class air travel experience for dogs and their people.

“We believe this initiative will raise awareness of BARK’s mission in a cost-effective manner,” said Zahir Ibrahim, Chief Financial Officer at BARK. “Given we are not committed to booking flights far in advance, we have a lot of flexibility to opportunistically charter flights during times of high demand. In parallel, we believe the additional traffic to BARK.co will raise awareness of our full offering, benefiting our core business in the long term.”

For more information on BARK Air and booking, visit DogsFlyFirst.com and follow along on Instagram @barkair.

About BARK BARK is the world’s most dog-centric company, devoted to making dogs happy with the best products, services and content. BARK’s dog-obsessed team applies its unique, data-driven understanding of what makes each dog special to design playstyle-specific toys, wildly satisfying treats, great food for your dog’s breed, effective and easy to use dental care, and dog-first experiences that foster the health and happiness of dogs everywhere. Founded in 2011, BARK loyally serves dogs nationwide with themed toys and treats subscriptions, BarkBox and BARK Super Chewer; custom product collections through its retail partner network, including Target and Amazon; its high-quality, nutritious meals made for your breed with BARK Food; and products that meet dogs’ dental needs with BARK Bright®. At BARK, we want to make dogs as happy as they make us because dogs and humans are better together. Sniff around at BARK.co for more information.

Forward Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements relating to, among other things, the future performance of BARK that are based on the Company’s current expectations, forecasts and assumptions and involve risks and uncertainties. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “expect,” “plan,” "anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “intend,” “potential,” “continue,” “ongoing” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements about future operating results, including our strategies, plans, commitments, objectives, and goals. Actual results could differ materially from those predicted or implied and reported results should not be considered as an indication of future performance. Other factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, risks relating to the uncertainty of the projected financial information with respect to BARK; the risk that spending on pets may not increase at projected rates; that BARK subscriptions may not increase their spending with BARK; BARK’s ability to continue to convert social media followers and contacts into customers; BARK’s ability to successfully expand its product lines and channel distribution; competition; the uncertain effects of the COVID-19 pandemic or other global or macroeconomic events or challenges.

More information about factors that could affect BARK's operating results is included under the captions “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in the Company's quarterly report on Form 10-Q, copies of which may be obtained by visiting the Company’s Investor Relations website at https://investors.bark.co/ or the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements in this press release, which are based on information available to the Company on the date hereof. The Company assumes no obligation to update such statements.

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Palouse River Kennels

Premier boarding facility, gun dog, and obedience training on the Palouse!

Set on a ridge overlooking the scenic Palouse River is Southeast Washington’s most spacious and inviting dog training and boarding facility.

Located just two miles from the Idaho border, Palouse River Kennels is the kennel of choice for people who love their family pets. And while we’re just 20 minutes from the towns of Moscow ID, Pullman WA, and Colfax WA, we have regular and loyal customers from Lewiston, ID, Orofino, ID, Clarkston, WA. and Pomeroy WA who trust us with their dog boarding needs.

Situated on 30 acres, our facility includes a pond, expansive training grounds, and a large, fenced exercise yard. Our indoor and outdoor dog runs are spacious, stretching a full 7 X 20 feet long. They are heated in the winter and cool in the summer. Your dog’s comfort and peace of mind is our mission.

Owner and trainer, John Sykes, has been a professional dog trainer for over 20 years. His expertise includes pointing dogs, retrievers, and behavioral modification for the family pet.

We can’t wait to talk to you! Give us a call at:

(509) 339-5344  or  [email protected]

The Palouse Region's premiere choice for dog training, behavior modification and service dogs

It's about the whole picture.

A healthy, happy dog has balance - nutritionally, mentally, and physically. Behavioral issues often arise when one of your dog's core needs is not being met. We specialize in creating individualized wellness plans that address all of your canine's core needs. Contact us today to set up an initial consulation - we would love to help you address any issues you may be experiencing.

& rehabilitation

We specialize in creating custom training programs to meet the individualized needs of your dog. We do everything from basic obedience to behavioral modification for the most problematic behaviors, including anxiety, biting, aggression and resource guarding. We offer several options ranging from group classes and private lessons to residency. Click the training Link above fo additional information. Feel free to call us with any questions or to set up an appointment for assessment.

custom service dog training

Prana K9 trains custom service dogs for autism, PTSD and general assistance. Some of the tasks we can train include: anxiety alerts, panic attack and nighmare interruption, deep pressure therapy, turning off and on light switches, opening doors, picking up dropped objects, finding lost objects, and bracing. An exhaustive list of task can downloaded on our service dog page. Please contact us with an questions you might have or to inquire about available dogs.

Needs assistance training your own service dog? Ask us about our train-your-own-service dog program

Downloadable List of Available Service Dog Tasks

3 tips to help you get your dog used to car travel

Ease your dog into car travel with these easy steps. .

While some dogs love being in a car from day one, others need some time to get used to the new experience. The sounds, smells, movement and confined space can be overwhelming for your pooch, especially if they suffer from motion sickness.

For this reason, it’s important to slowly introduce them to car travel and allow them the necessary time to feel comfortable and relaxed in your vehicle. Try these three steps to help make this new experience as pleasant and easy for you and your dog:

• Baby steps: Get your dog used to just being in the car without driving anywhere. Then get them used to being in the car with you with the engine running, without actually being on the road. Next, start with short rides with your dog, maybe around the block or to a nearby park. This gradual introduction to the car can help them get used to the sights, sounds, and sensations associated with being in a moving vehicle.
• Have rewards ready: Make the car a positive place for your dog. Give them a special treat or toy that they only get in the car, which will make them look forward to car rides. Remember to reward good behaviour during car rides. 
• Choose fun destinations: Start by extending your drives to nearby parks, friends’ houses, or other places your dog enjoys. For longer drives, plan regular breaks for all passengers, including your dog, to stretch and refresh. This also helps reduce motion sickness.

If after these steps, your dog’s anxiety or fear of car travel persists or worsens, consider seeking guidance from a professional dog trainer or a veterinary behaviourist. They can provide specialised advice and training to address your dog’s specific needs. For more car tips, visit MotorHappy .

For more on pets and lifestyle, visit Get It Magazine .

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