Ever been on a road trip with your best furry friend, only to have them turn into a backseat Houdini? Jumping over seats, trying to lick your ear while you drive? It’s fun for them, but a disaster for you! Driving with an unrestrained dog is dangerous. Sadly, it is also the cause of many accidents.
Choosing the right dog crate for car travel can feel overwhelming. There are so many sizes, materials, and features! You might worry about your dog’s safety and comfort. Will the crate fit in your car? Will your dog escape? These questions can cause a lot of stress. You want to keep your dog safe and make car rides easier for everyone.
This blog post is here to help! We’ll break down everything you need to know about dog crates for car travel. You’ll learn how to choose the perfect crate size, the best materials, and safety features to look for. You’ll also discover tips to help your dog love their crate. Get ready to make car rides safer and more enjoyable for you and your pup! Let’s dive in and find the perfect crate for your next adventure.
Our Top 5 Dog Crates For Car Travel Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Dog Crates For Car Travel Detailed Reviews
1. PetSafe Portable Pet Crate for Car
Rating: 8.8/10
The PetSafe Portable Pet Crate for Car is a great way to travel with your dog! This crate has a strong aluminum frame. It folds down easily for storage. The headrest strap and seatbelt keep the crate secure. It is a comfortable and safe space for your pet in the car. This crate is perfect for pet owners who are always on the go.
What We Like:
- The crate is easy to store because it folds.
- It is secure with the headrest strap and seatbelt.
- Your pet can see out and breathe easily with the mesh design.
- It is easy to carry with the handle.
- Cleaning is easy with the waterproof and washable design.
- Two doors make it easy for your pet to get in.
- It fits on one seat, so you still have room.
- PetSafe is a trusted brand.
What Could Be Improved:
- It might not fit in all small cars.
This PetSafe crate is a good choice for pet owners who travel. It is safe, easy to use, and keeps your pet comfortable. This crate is a great travel companion for you and your dog!
2. Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Medium Dogs
Rating: 9.5/10
The Petmate Vari Dog Kennel is a great way to keep your medium-sized dog safe. This portable carrier is perfect for travel, whether by car or plane. It’s made of strong plastic and has a secure door. The kennel is designed to meet airline requirements, so your dog can travel comfortably. It’s easy to clean and built to last. Petmate has been making quality pet products for a long time.
What We Like:
- Secure and safe design keeps pets protected. The door is easy to open. You can use zip ties to make it extra secure.
- This carrier meets most airline rules. Your dog will get plenty of air and see around them.
- It’s designed for dogs that weigh between 20-30 pounds. Your dog will have room to move around.
- The plastic is easy to wipe clean. A special area helps keep your dog dry.
What Could Be Improved:
- Might be too small for some medium-sized dogs.
This Petmate kennel is a solid choice for dog owners. It offers safety, convenience, and peace of mind for travel. If you need a reliable travel crate, this one is worth considering.
3. Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel
Rating: 8.6/10
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 traveling. This soft-sided dog crate is made for medium-sized dogs. It is made of strong, tan polyester fabric. The crate is easy to set up and take down. It folds flat for easy storage. It has two doors, one on top and one in the front. This makes it simple to get your dog in and out. The crate also has mesh windows for good airflow.
What We Like:
- Sets up quickly, without tools.
- Folds flat for easy carrying and storage.
- Has two doors for easy access.
- Mesh windows give good air flow and visibility.
- Secure zipper closures and straps keep doors open.
- It is light to carry.
What Could Be Improved:
- Might not be the best choice for dogs that like to chew.
- The size might be too small for some larger medium-sized breeds.
Overall, the Amazon Basics soft-sided dog crate is a good pick for travel. It is easy to use and keeps your dog safe.
4. K&H Pet Products Enclosed Dog Car Seat
Rating: 9.0/10
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 comfy and secure space. It has a cozy, washable pad and mesh windows so your dog can look out. The medium size is perfect for dogs up to 20 pounds. It’s the perfect solution for pet owners who want to travel with their dogs!
What We Like:
- The carrier keeps your pet safe and secure in the car.
- Straps attach to the headrest and seatbelts for extra safety.
- You can easily get your dog in and out with multiple entrances.
- It’s quick to set up and take down.
- It folds flat for easy storage.
- K&H is a trusted brand with lots of experience.
What Could Be Improved:
- The size might not fit all dogs.
The K&H Pet Products Enclosed Dog Car Seat is a good way to travel with your dog. It gives you peace of mind knowing your pet is safe and comfortable.
5. GAPZER Small Dog Carrier for Puppy Yorkshire Softshell Car Transport Chihuahua Carry Cage 18-inch Collapsible Doggie Vet Visit Crate Easy Load Roomy Pet Carrier Bag Kennel Dog Essentials Teal
Rating: 8.7/10
The GAPZER Small Dog Carrier is a great way to transport your small dog or cat. It is designed for comfort and safety. This carrier is perfect for vet visits, car rides, or any travel with your furry friend. The teal color gives the carrier a stylish look. It is also easy to store when not in use.
What We Like:
- The carrier is a good size for small dogs and cats. It measures 18.1″L x 11.8″W x 11.8”H.
- It has good airflow. The mesh design lets your pet breathe easily.
- The carrier folds up for easy storage.
- The liner is washable. You can remove it and wash it in the machine.
- You can carry it in different ways. It has shoulder straps and handles.
What Could Be Improved:
- The maximum weight limit is 20 lbs. This might not fit all small dogs.
- It is important to measure your pet to make sure it fits.
The GAPZER Small Dog Carrier is a safe and convenient way to transport your pet. This carrier is a good choice for pet owners who travel often.
Dog Crates for Car Travel: Your Pup’s Safe Ride Guide
Taking your dog in the car should be fun! But it’s also important to keep them safe. A dog crate is a great way to do this. This guide helps you pick the best crate for car travel.
Key Features to Look For
You want a crate that works well. Here are some important things to check:
- Size: Your dog needs room to stand, turn around, and lie down. Measure your dog! Measure from their nose to tail and from the top of their head to the floor. Add a few inches to each measurement.
- Durability: The crate needs to be strong. It needs to handle bumps and your dog’s energy.
- Ventilation: Good airflow is important. Make sure your dog can breathe easily. Look for crates with plenty of openings.
- Security: The crate needs strong locks or latches. You don’t want your dog escaping!
- Portability: Consider how easy the crate is to move. Does it fold up? Does it have handles? You’ll be carrying it around.
- Ease of Cleaning: Accidents happen. You want a crate that is easy to clean.
Important Materials
The material of the crate makes a big difference.
- Wire Crates: These are popular. They are usually made of metal. They have good ventilation. They often collapse for easy storage.
- Plastic Crates: These are strong and easy to clean. They are good for dogs who might chew. They offer more privacy.
- Soft-Sided Crates: These are often lighter and more portable. They are usually made of fabric and mesh. They are best for calmer dogs. They aren’t as sturdy as other options.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality means the crate will last. It also keeps your dog safe.
Good quality crates have:
- Strong Materials: Thicker wire or durable plastic is better.
- Secure Latches: These keep the door closed.
- Reinforced Corners: These make the crate stronger.
- Non-Toxic Materials: You don’t want your dog to chew on anything that could hurt them.
Poor quality crates may have:
- Thin or Flimsy Materials: These break easily.
- Weak Latches: These can come undone.
- Sharp Edges: These could hurt your dog.
- Poor Ventilation: This can make your dog uncomfortable.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will use the crate.
Consider these use cases:
- Car Trips: The crate keeps your dog safe during travel. It prevents them from distracting the driver.
- Vet Visits: The crate makes vet visits less stressful. Your dog has a safe space.
- Training: A crate can help with house training. It gives your dog their own space.
- Everyday Use: Some people use crates at home. It provides a safe space for their dog.
User experience is important. Make sure the crate is easy to set up. It should be easy to clean. Your dog should feel comfortable inside.
Dog Crate for Car Travel FAQ
Q: What size crate should I buy?
A: Measure your dog. Add a few inches to their measurements for the crate.
Q: Are wire crates safe for car travel?
A: Yes, wire crates can be safe. Make sure they are made well. Secure the crate in the car.
Q: What is the best material for a dog crate?
A: It depends on your dog. Plastic crates are strong. Wire crates offer good ventilation.
Q: How do I make my dog comfortable in the crate?
A: Put a soft bed or blanket in the crate. Give your dog toys. Make it a positive experience.
Q: Can I leave my dog in the crate for a long time?
A: No. Dogs need to go to the bathroom and get exercise. Don’t leave them in the crate for hours.
Q: How do I clean a dog crate?
A: Use soap and water. Rinse the crate well. Let it dry completely.
Q: Should I put the crate in the front or back seat?
A: The back seat is usually safer. Secure the crate so it doesn’t move.
Q: What if my dog hates the crate?
A: Introduce the crate slowly. Make it a positive experience with treats and toys. Never force your dog inside.
Q: Are soft-sided crates good for car travel?
A: They can be. They are best for calm dogs. They don’t offer as much protection as plastic or wire crates.
Q: Where can I buy a dog crate?
A: You can buy dog crates at pet stores, online retailers, and some general stores.
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!