Have you ever seen a dog happily riding shotgun, tongue flapping in the wind, only to realize they’re not safely secured? Or maybe you’ve cringed watching a dog try to navigate a car ride in a harness that doesn’t fit quite right? Keeping your furry friend safe in the car is super important. It’s not just about comfort; it’s about protecting your dog and everyone else on the road.
Choosing the right car dog crate can feel overwhelming. There are so many sizes, materials, and features to consider! You might wonder about crash test ratings, ease of cleaning, and how much space your dog needs. Picking the wrong crate can lead to a stressed-out pup, a messy car, or even a dangerous situation in an accident. Finding the perfect crate is a real challenge!
This blog post will help you become a car dog crate expert! We’ll break down everything you need to know, from measuring your dog to understanding different crate types. You’ll learn how to choose a safe, comfortable, and easy-to-use crate. Get ready to make car rides safer and more enjoyable for you and your best friend. Let’s dive in!
Our Top 5 Car Dog Crate Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Car Dog Crate Detailed Reviews
1. PetSafe Portable Pet Crate for Car
Rating: 8.9/10
The PetSafe Portable Pet Crate for Car is a great travel solution for your dog. This crate is designed to be easy to use and store. It has a strong aluminum frame. It folds down quickly when you need to save space. The crate uses a headrest strap and seatbelt to stay secure in your car. It is perfect for keeping your dog safe and comfy on the road.
What We Like:
- PORTABLE DESIGN: The crate is easy to store. It folds down quickly. This makes it great for pet owners who travel a lot.
- SECURE TRAVEL: The crate uses a headrest strap and seatbelt. This keeps your dog safe in the car.
- COMFORTABLE: The mesh design gives your dog good air flow. They can see outside easily. The crate fits on one seat.
- PRACTICALITY: The crate has a handle for easy carrying. It is made for easy travel.
- EASY MAINTENANCE: The crate is waterproof and machine washable. This makes cleaning up simple.
- EASY PET ACCESS: Two doors on each side make it simple to put your dog in the crate.
What Could Be Improved:
- It might not fit in all cars, especially smaller ones.
The PetSafe Portable Pet Crate is a practical and safe choice for pet travel. It is built with your dog’s safety and your convenience in mind. This crate is a solid choice for pet owners who want to travel with their dogs.
2. Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel
Rating: 8.9/10
The Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel is a great way to keep your dog safe and comfy while you travel. This soft-sided crate is made of tan polyester fabric and has a strong, lightweight frame. It’s easy to set up and folds flat for easy storage. It has two doors, one on the top and one on the front. Mesh windows on all sides help with airflow. This crate is recommended for medium-sized dogs, like Blue Heelers and Golden Retrievers, up to 50 pounds.
What We Like:
- Easy to set up in just seconds.
- Folds flat for easy carrying and storage.
- Two doors make it easy to get your dog in and out.
- Mesh windows keep your dog cool.
- Secure zippers keep your dog safe.
What Could Be Improved:
- Not ideal for dogs that like to chew.
- The fabric is not waterproof.
This Amazon Basics dog crate is a good choice for travel. It is a simple and affordable way to keep your dog safe and comfortable on the go.
3. Lesure Soft Collapsible Dog Crate – 36 Inch Portable Travel Crate for Large Dogs Indoor & Outdoor
Rating: 9.1/10
The Lesure Soft Collapsible Dog Crate is a portable travel crate designed for dogs. It is great for indoor and outdoor use. This crate folds up easily and comes with a storage bag. It is made with breathable mesh and has a comfy mat inside. The crate is designed for safety with a strong frame and reflective strips. It also has self-locking zippers and a built-in leash.
What We Like:
- Easy to set up and take down in just minutes.
- The mesh sides keep your dog cool and comfortable.
- Reflective strips keep your pet safe at night.
- It’s easy to clean with waterproof fabric and a machine-washable mat.
- Available in multiple sizes to fit different dog breeds.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the crate is durable, some dogs might be able to chew through the mesh.
In conclusion, the Lesure Soft Collapsible Dog Crate is a good choice for pet owners who travel. It is safe, easy to use, and keeps your dog comfortable on the go.
4. K&H Pet Products Enclosed Dog Car Seat
Rating: 8.9/10
Keep your furry friend safe and sound on every car ride with the K&H Pet Products Enclosed Dog Car Seat! This travel carrier is designed to give your pet a cozy and secure space while you’re on the move. It features a soft, washable pad and mesh windows so your dog can see the world. This carrier is easy to set up and take down, making it a convenient travel solution for you and your pet.
What We Like:
- The carrier keeps your dog safe. Straps attach to the headrest and seatbelts.
- It has easy access. You can use the exits on the front and sides.
- It’s quick to set up. You can install and remove it easily. It also folds flat for storage.
- The washable pad is a bonus. It is easy to clean.
- K&H has a great reputation. They have been making pet products for over 20 years.
What Could Be Improved:
- This size is best for smaller dogs. It holds dogs up to 20 pounds.
Overall, the K&H Pet Products Enclosed Dog Car Seat is a good choice for pet owners. It will help keep your dog safe and comfortable during car trips.
5. Ferplast Atlas Vehicle SUV Dog Crate
Rating: 8.7/10
The Ferplast Atlas Vehicle SUV Dog Crate is designed for safe travel with your dog. This assembled car dog crate fits in the cargo area of SUVs and hatchbacks. It measures 39 inches long, 23 inches wide, and 26 inches high. The crate is ideal for medium to intermediate dog breeds, especially those weighing between 40 to 60 pounds. The crate is black and made by Ferplast.
What We Like:
- The crate fits well in SUVs.
- It has great ventilation. Metal mesh in the front and back helps air flow.
- The crate is easy to move with sturdy handles.
- You can take the crate apart for storage.
- The door locks securely. It slides to save space.
- It comes with a one-year warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- You must measure your car’s cargo area before you buy.
- It might not fit all SUV models.
Overall, the Ferplast Atlas SUV Dog Crate is a good choice for dog owners. It offers safety and comfort for your dog while traveling.
The Ultimate Guide to Car Dog Crates: Keeping Your Pup Safe and Sound
Taking your dog in the car is fun! But keeping them safe is super important. A car dog crate is the best way to do this. This guide will help you find the perfect one.
Key Features to Look For
You need a crate with the right features. This keeps your dog safe and comfy.
- Size: Make sure the crate is the right size. Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Measure your dog!
- Durability: The crate needs to be tough. It should survive bumps and scratches. Look for strong materials.
- Ventilation: Good airflow is important. Your dog needs fresh air, especially on hot days. Look for crates with plenty of openings.
- Security: The crate needs to latch securely. It should not open easily during a car ride.
- Ease of Cleaning: Accidents happen! Choose a crate that’s easy to clean. Removable trays are helpful.
- Portability: Some crates fold up. This is great for storage. Others have handles. This makes moving them easier.
- Crash Test Ratings: Some crates are crash-tested. This means they are proven to protect your dog in a crash. Look for these if possible.
Important Materials
The materials used in a crate change how well it works.
- Metal: Metal crates are strong and durable. They often have good ventilation. They are the most crash-worthy.
- Plastic: Plastic crates are lightweight. They are easy to clean. They may not be as strong as metal.
- Fabric: Fabric crates are soft and often fold up. They are good for smaller dogs. They aren’t as protective as metal or plastic.
- Mesh: Mesh is used for ventilation. It lets air flow through the crate.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a crate better. Other things make it worse.
- Better:
- Stronger materials
- Sturdy latches
- Good ventilation
- Easy-to-clean design
- Crash test certifications
- Worse:
- Thin or flimsy materials
- Weak latches
- Poor ventilation
- Hard-to-clean design
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will use the crate. This helps you pick the best one.
- Daily Commute: If you drive your dog daily, a durable crate is best. Easy cleaning is a plus.
- Road Trips: A crate that’s easy to move is handy. A comfortable crate is important for long trips.
- Training: Crates can help with training. Use the crate to teach your dog to stay calm.
- Safety: The main use is safety. The crate protects your dog in a crash. It also keeps them from distracting you while driving.
- Different Dogs: Different crates work better for different dogs. A small dog needs a small crate. A large dog needs a large crate.
Car Dog Crate FAQs
Here are some common questions about car dog crates.
Q: What size crate do I need?
A: Measure your dog! The crate should be big enough for them to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Q: Are metal or plastic crates better?
A: Both have pros and cons. Metal crates are very strong. Plastic crates are lighter and easier to clean.
Q: How do I clean a car dog crate?
A: Most crates can be cleaned with soap and water. Removable trays are very easy to clean. Always let the crate dry completely.
Q: What if my dog doesn’t like the crate?
A: Introduce the crate slowly. Make it a positive experience. Put treats and toys inside. Never force your dog into it.
Q: Can I leave my dog in the crate for long periods?
A: No. Your dog needs to get out, stretch, and go potty. Do not leave your dog in the crate for hours at a time.
Q: Are car dog crates crash-tested?
A: Some are. Look for crates that have been crash-tested. This means they are proven to protect your dog in a crash.
Q: How do I secure the crate in my car?
A: Use straps or tie-downs. Secure the crate to the car’s seat or cargo area. This prevents it from moving around.
Q: Can I use a fabric crate in the car?
A: Yes, but they are less protective. Fabric crates are best for smaller dogs or short trips. Make sure they are secured.
Q: What should I put inside the crate?
A: Add a soft bed or blanket. Include toys and water. Make sure the crate is comfortable.
Q: Where can I buy a car dog crate?
A: You can buy them online or at pet stores. Compare different crates before you buy one.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hey there, My name is Joe Martin & I’m the author of OffroadersGuild.com. I’ve been hitting the dirt for a while now. I’ve been off-roading in all sorts of vehicles, from Jeeps to trucks and everything in between.
I’ve also built and modified a few off-road vehicles of my own, so I know what works and what doesn’t when it comes to upgrading and modifying off-road vehicles. I started this website to share my experience and help others get the most out of their off-roading adventures. Let’s hit the trails!