rent dog travel crate

Can I rent dog crates?

Renting dog crates is far more common than you think, especially for air travel where IATA approved crates are required by most airlines. But there are other reasons you might want to consider crate rental. Let’s take a look at the benefits of dog crate rental and where you can rent them from.

Table of Contents

Why rent a dog crate?

Whenever you want to transport your dog by air there will be very specific guidelines as to how your container should look. In fact, the IATA (International Air Transport Association) has a lengthy 12 page PDF for download;

Download the 12 page IATA container guidelines here.

Renting an approved IATA compliant dog kennel is far easier than wading through those guidelines and will guarantee you don’t get turned away.

Dog Carrier Sizes

Where can i rent an iata approved dog crate.

You won’t be able to rent a dog crate from the airline you book with but there are some pet travel companies who offer crate rental.

K&J Custom crates offer rental in weekly time periods and a range of sizes.

PetsAbroad can provide crates of all sizes and IATA compliant for your dog’s travel needs.

At Aeropets you can hire IATA approved crates for both domestic and international travel, or you can let them arrange the whole shebang and transport your dog for you.

Let us know if you’re a crate hire company in the US, we’d love to partner with you.

Prefer to buy?

Luxx, Petmate and Karlie all stock IATA approved crates in varying sizes.

Holidays / AirBnB

If you’re booked into a pet-friendly hotel, or a dog friendly Airbnb and don’t want the hassle of packing your own crate or detaching your car crate to use indoors, renting a crate locally can solve the issue.

Pick up on the first day, return on the last day and you’ve saved space in your vehicle for travelling and made your life much easier.

If you’re ever in Cornwall, UK try Slickers for your crate rental.

Car Travel / Crash tested

Planning a road trip or longer journey than usual but don’t normally crate your dog, or you do but your crate isn’t crash tested ? Why not hire one for the trip and return it when you’re back?

Veterinary Advice / Injury

Is your dog not normally crated but is about to have surgery which will require crate rest afterwards?

Renting a crate may be cheaper than buying one for the duration. Be sure to factor in a few weeks prior to surgery to make sure your dog is happy in his crate.

Several types of surgeries in dogs may require at least 6 weeks of crate rest for proper healing. Crate rest is often recommended to limit a dog’s activity and movement, allowing the surgical site to heal without any complications. Some common surgeries that may necessitate an extended period of crate rest include:

• Cruciate Ligament Repair: Procedures such as TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) or TTA (Tibial Tuberosity Advancement) for cruciate ligament injuries often require strict rest for a prolonged period.
• Fracture Repair: Dogs with fractures, especially those requiring surgery with the placement of implants like plates or screws, may need an extended period of crate rest for bone healing.
• Intervertebral Disc (IVD) Surgery: Dogs undergoing surgery for intervertebral disc herniation may need an extended period of rest to prevent further damage to the spinal cord.
• Tumor Removal: Depending on the location and extent of the surgery, dogs recovering from tumor removal may need crate rest to prevent stress on the incision site.
• Abdominal Surgeries: Some abdominal surgeries, such as those involving the gastrointestinal tract, may require restricted activity during the healing process.
• Hip or Elbow Dysplasia Surgeries: Procedures to address joint dysplasia or other orthopedic conditions may necessitate a significant period of restricted movement for optimal healing.
• Limbs: Dogs undergoing limb amputation may need crate rest during the initial phase of recovery to allow the surgical site to heal and to adjust to their altered mobility.
• Brain Surgery: Depending on the nature of the surgery, dogs undergoing brain surgery may need extended rest to recover.

Fast Growing Puppies

Got a Great Dane? Newfoundland puppy? Saint Bernard? Fast growing puppies grow out of their crates FAST! It may work out cheaper to hire different sizes as they grow.

Short Term Guests / Contractors in the house

Having house renovations or house guests who aren’t dog lovers (crazy, right?). Having a crate to use short term (as long as your dog is crate trained) is a godsend and will allow you to pop them into the crate and keep them safe for short periods of time.

Ready to start crate training your dog?

Grab our free guide here

All articles on tetradog.com are written by qualified behaviorist and dog trainer, Cheryl Walker.

Credentials;

• ·  Foundation degree (Level 5) in  canine behaviour management
• ·   WSDA instructor (World Scent Dogs Association)  and level 1 competition judge
• ·    ADTB  Puppy level instructor Diploma
• ·   Diploma in Puppy Training
• ·   Diploma in canine behavior training
• ·   Canine First Aider
• ·  Veterinary Support Assistant Diploma
• ·  Completed Dr. Ian Dunbar’s  Sirius academy
• ·  Owner of an extraordinary working Cocker spaniel called Huckleberry

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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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Pet Travel Crates: Expert Guide to Choosing and Preparing the Perfect Crate for Your Pet’s Journey

Choosing the right travel crate for your pet.

Pet Travel Crates: The Key to Safe and Comfortable Pet Transport

Choosing the right travel crate is one of the most crucial steps in ensuring safe and comfortable pet transport. Airline-approved pet travel crates must be the correct size, and it's essential to start crate training your dog or cat ahead of your move day. This guide will provide valuable insights on selecting and preparing the ideal pet travel crate.

Whether you're moving a dog, cat, bird, reptile, or other exotic pet, your PetRelocation Specialist is here to assist you in finding the right travel crate for your pet's unique needs.

How to Measure Your Pet for the Travel Crate

To determine the correct crate size for your pet, use the following guidelines:

Measurement A: Measure your standing pet from the base of their tail to the tip of their nose. Add four inches to Measurement A. This is the required length of your pet's travel crate.

Measurement B: Measure your standing pet from the floor to the top of their head to find their height. Add four inches to Measurement B. This is the required height of your pet's travel crate.

Accepted vs. Not Accepted: Ensuring Your Pet's Comfort

• The crate allows your pet to stand up comfortably.
• Your pet can see out of the crate without ducking.
• The crate provides enough space for your pet to turn around.
• Your pet can lie down comfortably with paws extended.

Not Accepted:

• The crate is too short for your pet to stand up straight.
• Your pet has to duck to see out of the crate.
• The crate doesn't allow your pet to turn around.
• The crate is too small for your pet to lie comfortably with paws extended.

Custom Pet Travel Crates: Solutions for Large Dogs and Exotic Pets

For large dogs exceeding #700 crate size or exotic pets with specific needs, we offer custom-made travel crates adhering to IATA standards. From crate extensions for extra height to custom bird crates with perches, we ensure safe and comfortable transport for all pets, regardless of size or species.

How to Choose the Right Pet Travel Crate

Once you've determined your pet's measurements, it's time to buy a crate that meets the standards of the airline you'll be traveling with. In the United States your pet's crate will need to comply with USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) and IATA (International Air Transport Association) regulations.

Double check with your airline to be sure, but in general your pet's crate must meet the following standards:

• Crates should be made of hard plastic, metal or wood, and the top should be solid (no ventilation or doors).
• The crate door must be made of metal and must be able to close securely. Hard plastic and other materials are not acceptable.
• Kennels must be assembled completely and kennel hardware should be in good condition and functioning properly. For example, nuts and bolts connecting the crate's top and bottom should be properly connected and show no signs of damage.
• Kennels with plastic side latches won't be accepted unless additional holes have been drilled to accommodate metal nuts and bolts.
• Two water dishes must be affixed to the inside of the kennel door and accessible from the outside of the crate.
• The floor of the kennel should be solid and leak-proof, and it is acceptable to place an absorbent material (an old towel, shredded newspaper, etc.) at the bottom of the crate.

Here's an overview of standard kennel sizes, along with their measurements in inches:

#100 Series: 21 L x 16 W x 15 H

#200 Series: 27 L x 20 W x 19 H

#300 Series: 32 L x 22 W x 23 H

#400 Series: 36 L x 24 W x 26 H

#500 Series: 40 L x 27 W x 30 H

#700 Series: 48 L x 32 W x 35 H

Note: Larger crates may be too big to fit on some aircraft. Double-check before you book your flight.

Custom Pet Travel Crates for Large Dogs

Large dogs whose size exceeds the #700 crate can still fly safely, but they must obtain a custom-made travel crate that adheres to IATA standards for international travel. Custom crates may be too large to fit on some aircraft, so double-check with your airline before you fly.

An extension kit will be necessary for larger dogs who need just a little extra height. Crate extension kits add height to Extra Large (#500 series) and Giant (#700 series) crates.

Bird Travel Crates

For relocation of feathered friends, we can help obtain custom bird crates complete with perches for both large and small birds.

Custom Exotic Animal Crates

Travel Crates for Reptiles and Rodents

Reptile and rodent shipping crates can be highly customized, allowing for the placement of inserts within the travel crate when transporting more than one pet.

Travel Crates for Other Exotic Pets

Moving another kind of pet ? Custom exotic animal crates should be built for strength and safety as well as for the pet's comfort. Rules for transporting animals in custom crates vary from airline to airline, so contact the proper authorities before ordering your pet's custom crate.

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The 15 Best Travel Dog Crates & Carriers [2023]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

778 Published Articles

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

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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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The Best Dog Crates For Travel 2024 Review

Breed Advisor is reader supported! This page contains affiliate links, that at no additional cost to you, may earn a small commission. Find out more here .

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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Best Dog Crates for Car Travel of 2024

Taking your pup on a road trip can be a fun experience but only if you have one of the safest dog crates for car travel. Even if you’re not traveling cross-country, a crash-tested carrier is one of the most important purchases to keep them safe for long-haul car trips and even a quick jaunt to the vet.

We selected crates and carriers that are crash-tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS), a nonprofit that evaluates the safety of pet travel products. To aid in our selection, we also enlisted the guidance of a dog trainer who helped inform us about the importance of pet safety when traveling in a vehicle. Our list of the best dog crates for car travel has something to make every dog’s next road trip a success.

Table of Contents

• Best Dog Crates for Car Travel
• Things To Consider When Buying
• How We Chose

Gunner G1 Kennel  »

Crash-tested and certified by CPS

Double-walled

Available in four sizes

Proven to protect pets in serious accidents

Tie-down straps sold separately

Not chew-proof

When traveling with your pet, keeping them safe in the car is the biggest priority. While there are plenty of travel crates on the market, the most effective are crash-tested and certified by CPS. This nonprofit evaluates the safety claims of pet travel products. Passing crash tests is no small feat, and only a handful of products receive the CPS’s seal of approval. One of those products is the Gunner G1 Kennel.

Available in four sizes – though the large size hasn’t been tested and certified by CPS – for puppies to large breeds, the Gunner G1 Kennel has a double-walled design to keep pets safe in an accident. Its double walls also have the added benefit of providing temperature regulation, keeping your pup cool even in hot weather. The crate has built-in pins for tie-down straps to secure the crate in a vehicle, although customers must purchase the straps separately.

Crash-test certification is an excellent feature and something pet parents should prioritize when searching for a travel crate. However, it does come at a cost. The Gunner G1 Kennel is on the higher end of travel crates and one of the most expensive options. Aside from its cost, some users take issue with the crate’s weight, which ranges from 27 pounds for the small kennel to 72 pounds for the large kennel. Sturdiness and durability are important in a travel crate, so we don’t necessarily consider this to be a con. However, a heavy crate can be an inconvenience.

Sleepypod Atom  »

More affordable option

Features top and side entries

Available in six colors

Not as much ventilation

Only suitable for pets up to 12 pounds

A budget dog crate for car travel is hard to come by, especially if you’re looking for a crash-tested and certified model, but the Sleepypod Atom is one of the safest options that doesn’t cost a few hundred dollars. This carrier features comfortable bedding for your pet to relax in, is suitable for the back seat of a car, and fits under the seats of most airplanes. The Atom also sports top and side entry points to make getting in and out a breeze for your pet. Plus, like all Sleepypod carriers, the Atom is available in various colors.

A downside of this crate is that it isn’t suitable for larger pets. With a weight limit of 12 pounds, only toy breeds can take advantage of this carrier. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t find a great car restraint for larger pets with a smaller budget. Sleepypod also makes one of the best car seat belts to keep large dogs safe and comfortable in a vehicle.

Sleepypod Mini  »

Suitable for puppies and kittens up to 7 pounds

Doubles as a bed

Can fit under airplane seat

Available in nine colors

Some users had sizing issues

Zipper that connects cover to bed can be flimsy

The correct size of travel crate is essential for keeping your pet safe during transit, says Nicole Ellis, a professional dog trainer and pet lifestyle expert for rover.com. When traveling, a dog should touch three of the four walls of the crate or carrier to minimize the chance of movement during a collision. Getting a tiny crate that fits a puppy properly can be challenging, but the Sleepypod Mini is ideal for pint-sized pups with a weight capacity of 7 pounds. Beyond being crash-tested and certified by the CPS, this carrier can be used with cats and allows you to carry your furry friend with you on an airplane. (However, always check individual airline recommendations before flying with your pet.)

Regardless of how you’re traveling, this carrier will keep your pet cozy, comfortable, and safe. The included bed can be used as your pup’s primary sleeping place when not jet-setting around the world, which may help acclimate your puppy to being contained in a small carrier during travel times.

While the Sleepypod Mini suits most teacup pups, some users struggled to get the correct fit, as Sleepypod also makes the Mobile Pet Bed, a medium-sized equivalent of the Mini. We recommend measuring before purchasing to ensure you get the right fit for your four-legged friend.

Away The Pet Carrier  »

Compact but safe for smaller pups

Clip to secure your pet within carrier

Airline-approved

Removable bedding

Only suitable for pets up to 18 pounds

Not as soft as some soft-sided carriers

Small breeds can be easier to travel with because they don’t take up as much space, but the travel is only simple if you have the right gear. The Pet Carrier by luggage brand Away is the ideal soft-sided crate for transporting small dogs in a car. Its features include top and side entry points for your animal, removable bedding for comfort, a retractable mesh privacy screen, and a collar clip to keep your pup from springing out of the carrier when opened. It also has a firm bottom, which stops the carrier from folding during transit – a feature Ellis says is important to prevent your dog from sliding around in the crate.

Car travel is a breeze with this carrier: Just secure it to your vehicle’s back seat via a belt around the headrest. Traveling by air with your pet? This carrier can sit snugly on top of your luggage , securing to the handle of any Away suitcase via a trolley sleeve. (For travelers who do take their pups on planes, note that while the material is soft, some users found it wasn't flexible enough to fit under every airline seat.) The downside of this carrier is that it’s only suitable for small breeds weighing less than 18 pounds, so medium and large pets are out of luck.

Lucky Duck Lucky Kennel  »

Suitable for pets up to 110 pounds (large size)

Drainage holes for easy cleanup

Lightweight

Bed pad sold separately

Finding a dog crate for car travel that suits big breeds can be tough, but Lucky Duck makes one of our favorite kennels ideal for medium to large dogs. With a capacity to hold pups as big as 110 pounds, the large version of the Lucky Kennel can keep up with large dogs without weighing you down. Unlike most crash-tested travel crates, this kennel is lightweight at only 45 pounds, making it much more accessible to lift in and out of a vehicle. Another nice feature is its drainage and ventilation holes. The drainage holes are excellent to have in the event of a potty accident, as any liquid in the kennel is directed to the drainage holes via the slightly pitched floor of the crate .

The drain holes are a nice plus, but they make it difficult to place a bed within the crate. As such, Lucky Dog offers its own bed to fit inside – a nice-to-have feature to ensure your pup’s comfort during travel. However, if you want to purchase the bed pad for your dog, you’ll have to do so separately. Lucky Dog also requires the separate purchase of ratchet straps – a type of restraint that keeps the crate tied down to a vehicle – instead of providing them with the kennel. Remember this when purchasing this crate because Lucky Dog kennels are only crash-tested and certified by the CPS in combination with these tie-down straps.

Paravel Cabana Pet Carrier  »

Smaller footprint than most carriers

Folds flat for easy storage

Made from recycled materials

Only fits pets up to 20 pounds

Some users found shoulder strap held up poorly

The best dog carriers for small cars won’t take up too much space in the back seat of a vehicle, and the Paravel Cabana Pet Carrier fits the bill. At just 11 inches long, this soft-sided carrier can easily fit within the back seat of any small car. It’s also less than 1 foot high, easily letting you see over the top of the carrier. However, the small footprint won’t squeeze your pet.

The Cabana Pet Carrier is more than 20 inches wide, which makes it easily able to hold pups up to 20 pounds. Another handy space-saving element of this carrier is its ability to fold completely flat so that when your pet isn’t in the vehicle with you, the back seat can be reclaimed for passengers or cargo.

While this crash-tested and certified carrier is a safe, space-saving option for small cars, a few users found it wasn’t the best option as a shoulder bag, as the shoulder strap broke for some buyers.

Cabela's GunDog Intermediate Dog Kennel  »

Tie-down strap kit and safety bar included

Nonslip rubber feet

Only one size

No included crate pad

When using a crash-tested crate in a large vehicle such as an SUV, it’s important to tie it down using straps or bolts to ensure the kennel doesn’t shift during transit. However, most crate manufacturers don’t include these tie-down straps with the purchase of a kennel, and these can often pack on an additional hundred dollars to an already expensive purchase. The Cabela’s GunDog Intermediate Dog Kennel is an excellent option for those who want the tie-down straps included to keep their pup safe in the back seat or trunk of an extra-large vehicle. The included tie-down strap kit can secure this crash-tested crate to most large cars, and the rubber feet offer additional nonslip reinforcement for more stability.

The kennel allows users to choose on which side they want the door to open – a handy feature to ensure ease of use. The downside of this crate is that it’s only available in one size, leaving few options for dogs between a medium and large size. It also comes as is, meaning no crate pad or bedding is included for your pup.

The Bottom Line

Choosing the best dog crate for car travel is a weighty decision, and you should always keep your pet’s safety top of mind. The good news is there are many excellent crates and carriers available that are crash-tested and certified, providing your pup with a safe and comfortable place during a road trip.

Our best overall pick is the Gunner G1 Kennel, which has some of the best features we’ve seen on a travel crate. Its double-walled design reinforces the kennel's safety while keeping your dog cool on hot days. It also has one of the most diverse size ranges available for crash-tested crates, making it suitable for small pups and large breeds alike.

Things To Consider When Buying Dog Crates for Car Travel

Safety Certifications: The best dog crates for car travel are crash-tested by the CPS. The pet industry has few regulations for travel products, and some brands may make unjustified safety claims. Even with products certified by the CPS, remember that certifications vary, and a product may not be approved for use with dogs weighing more than a certain amount or without additions such as tie-down straps.

Size and Weight Capacity: Choosing the correct size kennel is vital for keeping your dog safe during travel, whether traveling with your pet in a car or on a plane. There’s no one-size-fits-all crate, so remember to measure your pet and follow the measurement and weight guidelines provided by the manufacturer to achieve a good fit.

Ellis says that while we might have an instinct to buy a bigger crate to give our pups more space to lounge, it’s important to hold off on this impulse. “[O]ur dogs should be snug. So when thinking of a [crash-tested crate], our dog should really be touching three of the four walls [when they] lay down,” she says. Ellis also encourages pet parents to avoid extra space within a crate because that’s where the dog will move during a collision.

Material: Each dog kennel is constructed differently, but there are some materials to look for when considering dog crates for travel. Ellis likes soft-sided carriers with a firm bottom that ensures a pet stays stable during transport. She also says that ballistic nylon – a material that’s resistant to water and chew damage – is great.

Hard crates tend to be made of materials like rubber or rotomolded walls. Rotomolding is a type of plastic construction, and its benefits include being durable and thick enough to withstand excessive force, such as the type that would be exerted in a car accident.

While crash-tested crates vary in material, Ellis notes that one material pet parents should avoid is wire, specifically in wire-style crates. These crates are acceptable for at-home use but not for travel. Ellis says a wire crate may break into small pieces and impale your pet in the event of a collision.

Vehicle Compatibility: Most crash-tested crates suitable for car travel can be used in any vehicle. However, measure the back seat of your car to ensure that the crate will fit. Some crates intended for larger dogs may not fit in the back seat as easily as smaller soft-sided carriers. These crates may instead be used in the trunk of a vehicle, although they usually require tie-down straps to keep them in place. Ellis says it’s important to check your specific vehicle’s attachment points if you opt for a crate that requires latching in that way.

It’s also vital to remember that while a crate may sit in a vehicle's back seat, trunk, or bed, it should never be placed in the front seat. Ellis says regardless of what crate or carrier your pup is in, your dog can still be injured by an airbag if traveling in the front seat of a car.

How We Chose the Best Dog Dog Crates for Car Travel

At U.S News 360 Reviews, our editors and contributing writers evaluate products based on research, expert guidance, and our own experience as professional product reviewers. Our contributing writer consulted the CPS’s list of crash-tested and certified dog crates and carriers to find the best options for dogs big and small. We also consulted Nicole Ellis , a certified professional dog trainer and pet lifestyle expert with rover.com to understand how to keep pets safe during car travel.

WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?

Sophia Carlisle , the author of this piece, has covered pet products for Business Insider as a fellow and, prior to that, fostered dogs and cats for years. She has tested dozens of dog products with her rescue pit mix Lyla, including harnesses, food, and leashes. For U.S. News 360 Reviews, Sophia has covered some of the best products for pups, such as the best dog harnesses and slow feeder dog bowls .

The most important safety feature of a dog crate for car travel is that it’s crash-tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS). Other safety features to watch for include crates and carriers with tie-down straps. Some crates for large dogs are only certified by the CPS with tie-down straps, which help to keep a large crate stable during transit.

Regardless of which CPS-certified crate you choose, Ellis, a certified professional dog trainer, says it’s always essential to restrain your pet in a vehicle. Even the most well-trained dog can cause a distraction, leap out of an open window, or become a projectile in the event of an accident, so keeping them secure during travel is necessary.

If a crate or carrier passes crash safety standards set by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS), it receives a rating between 1 Star and 5 Star. The very best dog crates for car travel receive a 5 Star safety rating.

If a brand or product claims to be certified by the CPS, check directly on the website to ensure it has passed crash testing. Some products have undergone crash testing but have failed or had their certification revoked. If a crate or carrier isn’t crash-test certified by the CPS, it’s unsafe to use with your pet for car travel.

Finding the correct size crate for your dog can be tricky, so take careful measurements of your pup and compare them with the weight and length measurements provided by the brand. Ellis, a pet lifestyle expert with rover.com, says that dogs should fit snugly inside their crates, so avoid opting for a larger size than your dog needs.

Compatibility with your vehicle is also important to consider when selecting the best travel crate for your pup. Ellis says it’s best to place the crate in the trunk or back seat of the car. Ensure you check whether or not the crate requires tie-down straps and if those straps can be attached to the latch points in your vehicle.

About Our Team

Sophia Carlisle

Contributor

Kayla Randolph

Associate Editor

U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

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Your car-ride companion. Your travel buddy. Your furry co-pilot. No matter his official road-trip title, your dog loves coming along for the adventure. The Happy Ride® Collapsible Travel Crate will give him a comfy place to ride where he'll be safely contained, not restrained. 

This dog travel crate is spacious without taking up the entire back seat. It fills up only one seat, so you'll still have room for human passengers. In this roomy crate, your dog will feel like he's lounging in a screened-in porch rather than a travel kennel. The large mesh front and sides let your dog see everyone inside the car and help keep him from getting too hot or cold. It also gives your dog visibility to look out the car window and lets you easily peek into the back seat to check on him.

Inside the dog travel crate is a pad with a fleece cover to help your pet feel extra cozy in the car. The removable fleece cover is waterproof and machine washable, so you can easily wash away dirty pawprints or other messes. The outer shell of the collapsible crate can also be removed and tossed in the washing machine after extra messy adventures. 

You won't have to worry about the travel crate moving when your pet does. Loop the headrest strap over the front seat's headrest and pass the seatbelt through slits on the back of the crate to keep it in place. A layer of fabric hides the seatbelt from your pet, so they won't be tempted to use the seatbelt as a chew toy on a long drive. 

This car crate has 2 doors that fully unzip to help you easily get your pet in and out of the car, whether the crate is behind the driver's seat or the passenger's seat. The crate also has 2 storage pockets with a hook and loop closure to keep your dog’s leash, poop bags and treats packed and tidy while on the road. There are 2 drawstring openings, one on each side of the travel crate, so you can reach in to give your dog an extra pet (or treat) without unzipping the door. 

When you arrive at your vacation rental, or if you need to make some more space in your car, this portable dog crate easily folds down for convenient storage until you and your dog hit the road again. Your pet deserves to road trip in comfort, safety and style. Trust PetSafe® to keep your pet healthy, safe and happy.

• Keep your dog from freely roaming around the car while you’re driving
• Travel crate folds down for easy storage when not in use
• Roomy travel crate gives your pet plenty of space to get comfy during car rides
• Mesh front and sides give your pet extra ventilation and visibility
• 2 drawstring openings allow you to pet your dog or give him a treat without having to open the crate doors
• Headrest strap and vehicle seatbelt keep the crate from moving
• Seatbelt is hidden between fabric panels so your pet won’t be tempted to chew on it
• 2 doors on the crate allow your pet to enter from the driver or passenger sides
• 2 convenient storage pockets to hold treats, leashes and poop bags
• Leather handle lets you easily carry the travel crate when expanded
• Includes a cushioned pad inside a removable, waterproof fleece cover
• Machine washable outer shell and fleece cover, air dry
• Measures 27 in L x 19 in W x 28 in H when fully expanded to fit most vehicles, may not fit compact vehicles
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The 10 Best Dog Crates & Carriers For Car Travel: Keeping Spot Safe!

Dog Crates & Carriers

WRITTEN BY:

April 23, 2024

44 Comments

K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. Here’s how it works .

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.

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

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

A wallet-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

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

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

About : The Sleepypod 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

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

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

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

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

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.

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Can You Rent Dog Kennels?

Yes, you can rent dog kennels (i.e. dog crates) for $12 per day on the low end to $300 per day on the high end and use this for airline travel, for separation anxiety training, or to potty a new puppy.

Are you looking for a great new way to keep your dog safe during travel? Are you planning to take your dog along on vacation or a move to a new home? If this is the case, you’ll need to rent a kennel. This is the safe, convenient, and portable temporary home that you can keep your dog in as you travel to a new location.

A kennel is different from other structures such as crates. A crate is meant to be a stationary object that you can keep your dog in. It’s usually meant to be placed in a particularly location, whether in or out of doors. On the other hand, a kennel is meant to be lightweight and portable for use in multiple locations.

Table of Contents

How Much Does A Dog Kennel Rental Cost?

Can you rent dog crates for airlines, how much does a dog crate rental for airlines cost, how big of a kennel or crate should i rent, how to prepare your dog for housebreaking, how to prepare your dog for airline travel.

The price of the average dog kennel rental will depend on a number of different factors. These will include the size of the kennel, how long you will need to rent the kennel for, and where you are renting the kennel. There are also the general rules and regulations of the facility you will be dealing with to take into full consideration.

In general, the cost of a decent, no-frills kennel rental in an average-sized small town may be anywhere from $12 to $25 per day. A fancier, “boutigue-styled” place may cost between $25 and $55 per day. A very high end facility that features a wide range of amenities for your dog may cost an average of anywhere from $40 to $110 per day.

Keep in mind that the price for a dog kennel rental in a larger city, such as Los Angeles or New York City, may cost you considerably more. The price for a no-frills rental may vary from %30 to $50. A mid-level facility may run you anywhere from $55 to $75. A very fancy, high-tech environment may cost $75 to $200 per day.

Are you planning to travel to another location via airplane? If you plan to bring your dog along, you’ll need to have a dog crate or kennel ready for them to use. You may be hoping that the airline you travel on can rent you a temporary travel crate. But this will most likely not be the case. Very few airlines offer crate rentals for your dog.

This does not mean that you can’t buy your own. In fact, this will very likely be your best course of action if you are absolutely sure you need to bring your dog along with you. You can buy a specially approved airline travel crate at your local pet store. You can also find plenty of top notch models for sale on the world wide web.

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It should also be noted that many travelers who bring their pets along will tend to buy a crate for one time use. This means that you can very likely search the web to find a used dog travel crate that someone is hoping to get rid of. Buying a used crate will enable you to save a bit of cash while also sparing you time and energy.

There are very few, if any, airlines that will rent you a dog crate. Your best bet will be to buy or rent a dog crate on your own. You can find deals for dog crates on the web ranging from $40 to $300 for an absolute deluxe model. It’s a good idea to check the web for used crates. You will get a much better deal buying one of these.

For a small dog like a Yorkie, the best size will be 2x Small. This will cover the needs of a dog up to 10 pounds. The crate should be at least 9 inches tall and 16 inches long. For larger dogs, such as German Shepherds and Great Danes, the size should be Extra Large. The crate should be at least 28 inches tall and 36 inches long.

If your dog is an adult and is having problems with going outside to do their business, consider the causes. They may be a recent adoptee who is simply not used to your home yet. You may need to take some time to get them more comfy.

It may also be due to a medical condition. You may need to take your dog to the vet to a get a full checkup. The vet may prescribe medication that will eliminate the issue.

The problem may also be caused by neglect. You may have been so busy lately that your dog feels ignored. They may also be missing someone who has died or left the home. Take the time to socialize with your dog. Pet them, play with them, and reassure them they are loved.

Next, make sure to feed your dog and then go with them outside the house several times a day. The key is to do this at the same time every day. Developing a routine that your dog is comfortable with will help solve the problem.

Make sure your dog goes to the vet and gets a clean bill of health for travel. The airline you are traveling with may require proof that your pet is in good health and not suffering from any contagious conditions.

Choose their travel crate with care. Make sure it is big enough for their needs without being too bulky to fit on the plane.

Pack the crate carefully with a bit of food, water, fresh blankets to lay on, and a few handy toys. Leave enough room for your dog to move around and lie down comfortably in.

My name is Ken and I’m one of the staff writers at Petloverguy.com. I’ve cared for pets most of my life starting with hamsters, turtles, and snakes. Then moving up to parakeets, guinea pigs, and even ducks. I currently live with two yorkies and a chihuahua mix.

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Buying or renting a cage to transport my animal

Should i rent or buy a cage to transport my animal by plane.

A transport cage is essential to fly your pet, whether it is a dog, a cat, a bird, a rodent, etc. Also be aware that the transport cage for your pet must be IATA certified.

Discover what is an IATA certified cage. An uncertified cage IATA will see the departure of your pet refused.

Regarding the purchase or rental of a transport cage, Air Transport Animal advises you to turn to the brand Vari Kennel or Vari Sky Kennel which is one of the only brands IATA approves and a brand accepted by almost all the airlines. With this mark, you guarantee the acceptance of your animal by plane.

Be careful not to buy or rent a cage in a hurry on the internet because many cages have the characteristics of cage standards for the transport of your pet plane but are not IATA certified.

Also discover our tool to choose the right cage for your pet .

Take advice from our animal transport expert s to make sure you buy or rent a cage suitable for the plane transport. Air Transport Animal allows you to travel with your pet all over the world: Dominican Republic , the United States , Singapore …

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10 Best Travel Crates for Dogs – 2024 Reviews & Top Picks

By Nicole Cosgrove

Updated on Mar 1, 2024

Vet approved

Reviewed & Fact-Checked By

Dr. Lorna Whittemore

MRCVS (Veterinarian)

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

Traveling with your pet can be stressful, whether it’s a trip to the vet or a week-long camping trip. It’s important to find a way to keep your pet safe and contained when driving while also providing your dog a place to sleep at night. However, no two crates are the same, and it’s crucial to research and find the right option. Thankfully, we did the hard work for you and found ten awesome travel crates based on customer reviews. If you’re looking for a travel carrier, read on to see which of the 10 Travel Crates for Dogs are the best option for you:

(Dimensions are for medium-sized crates. Each model on our list has other size options.)

A Quick Glance at Our Favorites of 2024

The 10 best travel crates for dogs, 1. frisco indoor & outdoor collapsible soft-sided crate – best overall.

The Frisco Indoor & Outdoor Soft-Sided Dog Crate is a soft-style popup crate that stands out amongst the others as the best overall travel dog crate. The main part of the crate is a lightweight canvas material, which is water-resistant and easy to carry. It folds up easily and can fit just about anywhere, whether you’re packing it in a trunk or storing it in a closet.

Another great feature of the Frisco Soft-Sided Crate is the outer pocket, which can store your dog’s food, treats, and other dog essentials. There are three zip-up mesh doors that roll up with clips to keep the doors open, giving your dog more ventilation and access points. The best part of the Frisco Soft-Sided crate is its inclusivity, available in multiple sizes to accommodate small and large dogs.

While we really like the quality and design of this crate, there’s no padding on the bottom, so you’ll need to bring a crate pad if you’re traveling. It’s also not the best choice if you have a particularly destructive dog, so extreme chewers and diggers may ruin the crate within a few uses.

• Lightweight canvas material
• Folds easily for traveling
• Outer pocket for extra storage
• 3 separate roll-up doors with clips
• Available in multiple sizes
• No padding for the bottom
• Not durable enough for some dogs

2. SP Travel Kennel Dog Carrier – Best Value

The SP Travel Kennel Dog Carrier is a traditional hard-sided travel carrier for those on a budget and looking for the best carrier for the money. The plastic and metal are of great quality for the price, so you won’t have to worry about the integrity of the crate. The hard plastic shell is easy to clean and comes with a handle on top, making it easy to carry your dog while on the go. The SP Travel Carrier features a metal bar door with a latch-type lock, securing your dog as you’re traveling. It’s also IATA-Airline approved, so the carrier should pass most airline specifications for flying.

While we love the SP Travel Kennel Dog Carrier, it’s only available in three sizes that may not work for your dog. The sizes also run on the smaller side, which can be frustrating if you have a larger dog. However, for owners of medium sized dogs looking for a good quality hard-shell carrier without the premium price tag, the SP Travel Dog Carrier is a great option.

• Great quality for the price
• Hard plastic shell with handle
• Metal door with latch
• IATA-Airline approved carrier
• Only available in three sizes
• Runs on the smaller side

3. MidWest Canine Camper Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate – Premium Choice

The MidWest Canine Camper Single Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate is a premium canvas-type soft crate for camping and traveling. It’s a lightweight design with a metal frame, which is easy to assemble and disassemble after use. The soft nylon canvas is water-resistant, so it’s a great choice for indoor and outdoor use. The MidWest Soft-Sided Crate collapses and folds down easily, making it easy to carry and store away after traveling. It also comes with a soft faux sheepskin pad for the bottom, giving your dog that extra comfort and padding while you’re on the go. The MidWest Soft-Sided crate is a premium-grade travel crate, so it tends to be more on the expensive side. It’s also not suitable for destructive dogs, especially dogs that like to claw, scratch, and chew at their enclosures. Otherwise, the MidWest Soft-Sided Crate is our premium choice pick and can be a great addition to your travel essentials.

• Lightweight with a metal frame
• Water-resistant nylon canvas
• Folds down for easy carrying
• Includes a faux sheepskin pad
• On the expensive size
• Not suitable for destructive dogs

4. Frisco Plastic Dog & Cat Kennel – Best for Puppies

The Frisco Plastic Dog & Cat Kennel is a hard-sided travel pet carrier that is a great option for puppies and adult dogs. The main component of the crate uses damage-resistant hard plastic, so it can withstand scratching and clawing from within. The Frisco Plastic Kennel uses a metal door with latch-type locks, which is easy to open yet secure enough to keep your pet inside. It comes in a few different sizes for more options, so it’s not as limiting as other travel carriers. The best part is that it’s easy to clean and disinfect, which is incredibly important with puppies and dogs that aren’t yet housebroken.

However, the Frisco Plastic Kennel is on the expensive side, so it’s a bit of an investment to purchase one. The kennels also run on the smaller side, so they won’t work for dogs of all sizes. Aside from those potential issues, the Frisco is a great crate and a great option for puppies and small dogs.

• Damage-resistant hard plastic
• Multiple size options
• Easy to clean and disinfect
• On the expensive side

5. Precision Pet Products Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate

The Precision Pet Products 4-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate is a collapsible popup crate for lightweight and convenient traveling. The outer material is a water-resistant canvas with mesh, so it provides protection for your dog and ventilation to prevent overheating. There are four separate doors with zippers on this model, which roll up and clip in place when not in use. It folds down easily for transportation, so it won’t take up a lot of space in your car or bags. It also has a big storage pocket on the outside, where you can put your dog’s food and treats while camping.

While there are some great features on the Precision Pet Collapsible crate, it’s not durable enough for dogs that like to chew and dig. The zippers on this model are a bit tough and may jam easily, so it does have a bit of a learning curve. Otherwise, this is a great collapsible soft-sided crate that could be a good option for you and your dog.

• Water-resistant canvas with mesh
• Four separate doors with zippers
• Folds easily for easy transportation
• Storage pocket on the outside
• Not suitable for dogs that dig and chew
• Zippers may jam easily

6. Petmate Compass Dog Kennel

The Petmate Compass Dog Kennel is a hard-shell dog travel carrier for dogs that need a hard-sided crate. This model features a durable hard plastic outer shell, which is easy to clean and care for in case of accidents. One great feature is the wide-mouth entrance, making it easy for your dog to go in and out with ease. It also features a double-lock setup that allows the door to open left or right in case space is limited, and you can’t open it in one direction. However, the Petmate Compass Dog Kennel has no handle or grips for carrying, so you’ll have to find a way to carry your pet safely. It’s on the expensive side compared to other carriers, especially for bigger sizes. It also may not fit extra-large or giant-sized dogs, which may make this option not suitable for you. Otherwise, this is a good hard carrier and may be a good option for you and your dog.

• Easy to clean hard plastic
• Wide-mouth entrance
• Double-lock opens left or right
• No handle or grips for carrying
• Expensive, especially for bigger sizes
• May not fit XL or Giant dogs

7. MidWest iCrate Fold and Carry Wire Dog Crate

The MidWest iCrate Fold and Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate is a great alternative to soft and hard plastic carriers. The crate features a coated metal structure with a durable plastic leak proof tray. This is the heaviest of the crates and will likely need two people to maneuver it, but the set up and take down are relatively quick and simple. This crate is very robust and a good option for dogs who dig and chew.  It has great ventilation and all round visibility of your pet.  Wire crates are especially useful for setting up a safe space for puppies and adult dogs, those that need restricting after surgery and for travel to pet friendly accommodation. This model comes with two possible access points, the front and side panels, a handle for carrying, 4 wheels to protect wooden floors and a divider panel. The MidWest iCrate comes in 6 sizes from xs to XL giving plenty of options.  A replacement liner can be purchased if needed.  On the down side if your pet prefers to be more private you would need to buy a separate cover and you may want to provide some comfy bedding too.  Some reviewers noted quality control issues such as latches not aligned properly.

• Durable wire construction
• Roller feet
• Included divider
• Great for post op recovery, crate training and travel
• More expensive than some other types
• Some reviewers reported latches not aligned

8. PetAmi Premium Airline Approved Soft-Sided Travel Carrier

The PetAmi Premium Airline Approved Soft-Sided Dog and Cat Travel Carrier is a carry-on style bag for flying and other types of travel. It features a duffel-bag style for easy carrying, as well as easy placement under your airplane seat. This duffel-bag carrier by PetAmi is a lightweight bag that is budget-friendly, as well as an alternative to other types of carriers. It also complies with most airline rules and regulations, so you can travel with your dog just about anywhere.

While the PetAmi is a great alternative to other carriers, it’s only suitable for toy and small-sized dogs. Another problem is with the plastic clips on the carry strap, which are not the best quality and may not be strong enough for heavier small breeds. It’s also not a durable material when it comes to extreme chewing and scratching, so we recommend trying other carriers for energetic or destructive dogs.

• Duffel-style pet carrier
• Budget-friendly alternative
• Complies with most airlines
• For toy and small dogs only
• Average-quality strap clips
• Not durable for dogs that dig/scratch

9. MidWest Spree Hard-Sided Dog & Cat Kennel

The MidWest Spree Hard-Sided Dog & Cat Kennel is a hard-sided type of dog carrier for traveling and on-the-go transportation. It has a hard-plastic shell, which is easy to clean and lightweight enough to carry. It’s a budget-friendly hard-sided carrier, so it could possibly save you money. However, you get what you pay for with the MidWest Spree Kennel, which has hard plastic that feels and looks cheap. The locks also feature the same average-quality plastic, so they may end up breaking or snapping after a while.

Another issue with this carrier is that it’s only suitable for small dogs, so it’s not an option for dogs bigger than 18 pounds. Lastly, the carrying handle is fixed into the crate, so it can be really uncomfortable to carry heavier dogs. Although we recommend trying other models first, the MidWest Spree could be an option if you have a toy-sized dog.

• Budget-friendly hard carrier
• Lightweight hard-shell plastic
• Lower quality plastic
• Plastic locks may break easily
• Only suitable for small dogs
• Carry-handle is fixed

10. Petmate Two Door Top Load Plastic Carrier – Best for Small Dogs

The Petmate Two Door Top Load Plastic Dog Carrier is a hard-shell type of travel carrier . The outer shell is hard plastic, which is easy to clean and maintain if your dog has an accident. Coated steel wire doors offer good security for escape artists. It also comes with an ergonomic top handle, making it easy and comfortable to transport your dog to and from places. With the option of loading pets from the top or front door this can make it easier to get reluctant pets in.  This is one of the most economical carriers on our list. This model is approved for use on most airlines making it useful for trips further away.  It does require some assembly and some reviewers struggled with this.

• Choice of colours
• Use on airlines
• Only for toy and small dogs

When it comes to acquiring travel essentials for your dog, it’s important to find a travel carrier that fits your needs. It’s important to buy the right type of crate, whether it’s a collapsible soft-sided crate, hard plastic or wire crate. For the best overall travel crate, Frisco Indoor & Outdoor 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog & Small Pet Crate exceeds expectations with high-quality material and features. For best value, the SP Travel Kennel Dog Carrier is our pick because it’s both affordable and durable. We hope our guide will help you find the best crate for you and your dog, so traveling will be as stress-free as possible.

• See Also: Best Dog Crates for RVs: Reviews & Top Picks

Featured Image Credit: JakubD, Shutterstock

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When you crate train your pup, their dog crate can quickly become one of their favorite places to feel safe, cozy, and comfortable. Dog crates are a safe space to call their own and keep them comfortable no matter the time of day. Pet parents might need different size dog crates for their dogs or even a dog carrier to take their pup on the go. You can shop for the best dog crates and carriers at PetSmart. 

Our collection of dog crate and carrier options include:

• Metal Dog Crates
• Plastic Dog Crates
• Mesh Dog Carriers
• Deluxe Pet Carriers
• Portable Crates for Dogs
• Two-Door Crates
• Top-Load Crates
• Stylish Carriers

Whether you’re looking for a new crate for small dogs or a large dog, PetSmart has you covered. We have lots of wire crates and carrier options suited to dogs of all sizes, so they have enough space to move around comfortably. If you’re looking for the best dog crate for your canine companion, let us help you find what you need.

Dog crates can differ from dog kennels because a dog kennel is usually slightly larger than a crate. Both crates and dog kennels come in various sizes for you to shop. Dog crates, kennels and containment supplies can all be good options for keeping pups in a safe, designated space.

You’re bound to find exactly what you need to care for your pup at PetSmart. In addition to finding the best dog crate, we’ve got other dog supplies for you to shop. We carry supplies for many dogs like dog containment products , including dog backpacks , dog car barriers , dog car booster seats , dog doors/gates , dog fence systems , dog houses/pens , dog mats/crate covers , dog strollers , dog food , dog treats , dog grooming supplies , dog collars and more. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)   Is it better for a dog to sleep in a dog crate?

Many people use dog crates for crate training their pups, setting boundaries, or containing them for their comfort/safety. A dog crate can be different from a dog kennel because a dog kennel can be larger. Finding the best dog crate for your pup can create a safe spot for them to sleep in or relax. 

How long can dogs stay in a crate?

Dog crates, sometimes called cages or kennels, are a contained area that a dog can reside in for short bursts of time. These containers are big enough to hold a dog but small enough that the dog isn’t roaming around. 

How big should a dog crate be?

If you have a puppy, get a dog crate size that will fit them when they’ve grown to their adult size, and add a divider to make it smaller. If the dog crate is too big, they might try and use the bathroom at one end. However, you want to ensure your dog crate has enough room for your pet to comfortably stand, sit and turn around.

What should go in a dog crate?

Your dog’s crate should be a comfortable and comforting place. Try a crate mat/liner to make it more comfortable, since most dog crate options have a plastic tray at the bottom. Make sure to observe your pup’s behavior in their dog crate to ensure the crate and anything you put in it are suitable for your pet.

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ANGELS FOR ANIMALS

A Place of Hope, Healing, Compassion, Companionship, Faith & Trust

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Other Services

In addition to our services listed on our main tabs, Angels for Animals offers the following services to the public.

DEPOSIT:  $50

Refundable with return of crate in good condition.

MONTHLY FEE: $10

Monthly charges for crate rental are not refundable.

DOG CRATE RENTAL

Angels for Animals offers a crate rental program for any family in need of a crate for their dog.  Dogs will naturally seek shelter, even in a house.  Generally, they will create it themselves by snuggling under a bed, a table, or behind a sofa.  When you provide a crate, you actually provide comfort and prevent excessive barking and chewing.  Crates are especially useful when housebreaking a dog or puppy or to give a dog a safe place to deal with separation anxiety.

A benefit of the Angels program is the ability to size your crate as your puppy grows.  If you start with a small lab puppy, you can keep sizing up as your puppy grows.  This is important because while you want your puppy to be comfortable, you don't want a crate too large during housebreaking.  You can rent a crate during our adoption hours.  A valid form of ID and/or credit card may be required for renting.

CAT TRAP:  $75

Several sizes and types are available.

LARGE DOG TRAP:  $150

Very large trap.  Will need a truck or SUV to haul.

TRAP BORROWING

Angels for Animals has live traps available to "borrow" for capturing abandoned dogs or cats.  A deposit is required to borrow one of our traps.  Once the trap is returned in the same condition as when it was rented, the deposit will be returned.  The following rules apply to renting a trap from Angels:

If the trap is not returned within 10 days, the deposit is forfeited, unless our business office is contacted and permits an extension on the trap agreement.

Deposits must be made in the form of cash, check or credit card.

The trap must be returned to Angels for Animals to receive the deposit back.

Traps may be picked up and rented from our Adoption Center during public business hours.  

DOG LICENSE

Angels is an authorized agent for the sale of Mahoning County Dog License. 

Ohio law requires al dogs over the age of 3 months of age be licensed.  Dog owners are encouraged to register their dogs before the January 31st deadline to avoid late penalty fees.  If you are a Mahoning County resident, you can purchase your license during public hours at Angels for Animals Adoption Center.  If you are adopting a dog, you can purchase your license at Angels and it will be good anywhere in the state of Ohio.  Subsequent licenses however, must be purchased in the county where you are living.  

Mahoning County dog licenses are also available year round at various locations.  Go to the following link to see these locations:   https://www.mahoningcountyoh.gov/DocumentCenter/View/125/Dog-License-Agents-PDF

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Car Rental Information

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If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Elektrostal into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Elektrostal and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Elektrostal

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Elektrostal . We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Elektrostal

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book .

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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One Key members save 10% or more on select hotels, cars, activities and vacation rentals. Not only that, earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands: Expedia, Hotels.com and VRBO. Learn more and join today.

Car classes available from Expedia in 2024

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals

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