Does your furry friend love car rides, or does the thought of a road trip with your dog fill you with a little dread? For many of us, our dogs are family, and we want to bring them everywhere. But traveling safely and comfortably with our canine companions can be a challenge. Choosing the right dog crate for your car is super important, but it’s also a bit tricky. There are so many different kinds out there, and it’s hard to know which one is best for your dog and your vehicle.
You want your dog to be safe and happy on the go, but you also need a crate that fits well in your car and is easy to use. Maybe you’ve worried about your dog getting anxious in the car, or perhaps you’ve experienced the mess that can happen when they’re not properly secured. This post is here to help! We’ll break down what you need to know so you can pick the perfect car crate.
By the end of this guide, you’ll feel much more confident about choosing a dog crate that keeps your pup secure, comfortable, and happy on every adventure. We’ll explore different types of crates, what features to look for, and how to make sure it’s a great fit for your car. Let’s get your next road trip planned with peace of mind!
Our Top 5 Dog Crates For Car Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Dog Crates For Car Detailed Reviews
1. PetSafe Happy Ride Collapsible Travel Crate – Safe Travel Containment with Heavy Duty Aluminum Frame
Rating: 8.7/10
Hit the road with your furry friend in the PetSafe Happy Ride Collapsible Travel Crate! This smart carrier keeps your pet safe and comfy on car trips. Its strong aluminum frame and mesh windows give your pet a good view and plenty of air. You can easily store it when not in use, making it great for any adventure.
What We Like:
- It keeps your pet very safe in the car. Seatbelt straps and a headrest loop hold it steady.
- It folds down flat for easy storage. This is perfect for smaller cars or when you need more space.
- Your pet will be comfy inside. It has soft padding and mesh windows for airflow.
- There are handy pockets to hold your pet’s toys or treats.
- Dual side doors make it easy to get your pet in and out.
- PetSafe has been making trusted pet products for 25 years.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s lightweight, the heavy-duty frame might make it a little heavier than some other soft carriers.
- The size options might not fit very large dog breeds comfortably.
This crate offers a secure and comfortable way to travel with your pet. It’s a smart choice for making every road trip a happy one for both of you.
2. K&H Pet Products Enclosed Dog Car Seat
Rating: 9.3/10
Take the stress out of travel with your furry friend with the K&H Pet Products Enclosed Dog Car Seat. This versatile carrier provides a safe and cozy spot for your dog or cat on any adventure. Its enclosed design ensures your pet feels secure, while multiple mesh windows offer plenty of ventilation and allow them to see the world go by.
What We Like:
- Safety First: The carrier buckles securely into your car with your seat belt and has an adjustable headrest strap for extra stability. Your pet stays put!
- Easy Access: With five zippered doors – two large side doors, two smaller side doors, and a front door – getting your pet in and out is super easy. You can even offer food and water without them escaping.
- Comfortable and Clean: A soft, removable, and machine-washable pad lines the bottom, making cleanup a breeze if any accidents happen.
- Space-Saving Storage: The carrier folds flat, so it’s easy to store in your trunk when not in use.
- Trusted Brand: K&H Pet Products has over 25 years of experience creating quality pet gear. They offer a 1-year limited warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- Size Matters: The medium size is for pets up to 20 pounds. Make sure to measure your pet’s length from chest to rear to ensure it’s shorter than 24 inches for a comfortable fit.
This K&H Pet Products carrier offers a secure and convenient way to travel with your pet. It’s a reliable choice for peace of mind on the road.
3. Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs
Rating: 9.3/10
The Petmate Vari Dog Kennel in 36-inch Taupe and Black is a sturdy and safe option for your large dog, whether you’re heading home or traveling by air. This kennel is designed with your pet’s comfort and security in mind, offering features that make travel easier for both of you.
What We Like:
- It keeps your pet very secure with a strong wire door and special holes for zip ties. This makes it safe for flights.
- The kennel meets rules for most airline cargo. It has vents on all sides so your dog can see out and get fresh air.
- It’s made for big dogs, weighing 50-70 pounds. Your dog has enough space to stand up and lie down comfortably inside.
- Cleaning is super easy. The plastic is simple to wipe clean. A special moat catches any messes, keeping your pet dry.
- Petmate has been making good pet products for over 60 years. They focus on making pets and their owners happy.
What Could Be Improved:
- The wire door, while secure, might require a bit of strength to open and close.
- While airline-friendly, it’s always best to double-check specific airline requirements before booking your flight.
This Petmate Vari Dog Kennel offers peace of mind for pet owners on the go. It’s a reliable choice for a secure and comfortable travel experience for your large furry friend.
4. Love’s cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed – Pop Up Dog Kennel
Rating: 9.1/10
The Love’s Cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed is a versatile pop-up kennel designed for your furry friends. It’s a great option for both indoor and outdoor use, and it even doubles as a portable car seat kennel. This pet bed collection comes in a stylish grey and is perfect for cats or small dogs up to 40 lbs. It offers a safe and cozy spot for your pet to relax, whether you’re at home or on the go.
What We Like:
- The mesh ventilation on the front and side panels keeps your pet cool and comfortable.
- It’s super easy to set up and take down, folding flat for simple storage and travel.
- The seatbelt straps make it safe and secure for car rides, so your pet stays put.
- You can add blankets and beds to make it extra comfy and personalized.
- It’s a risk-free purchase with a lifetime, no-questions-asked refund or replacement guarantee.
What Could Be Improved:
- The fabric weight is 180 grams, which might not be sturdy enough for very energetic or destructive pets.
- It’s lightweight for portability, but this also means it’s not as strong as a metal crate.
- Care instructions require hand washing in cold water, and it cannot be bleached, tumble dried, ironed, or dry cleaned.
Overall, this pop-up kennel offers great convenience and comfort for your pet. It’s an excellent choice for pet owners who travel or want a flexible pet space.
5. Ferplast Atlas Vehicle SUV Dog Crate
Rating: 9.4/10
Traveling with your furry friend just got easier with the Ferplast Atlas Vehicle SUV Dog Crate. This sturdy, black crate is designed to fit perfectly in the cargo area of SUVs and hatchback vehicles. It measures 39 inches long, 23 inches wide, and 26 inches high, making it a great fit for medium to intermediate dog breeds that weigh between 40 and 60 pounds. Ensure you measure your SUV’s cargo space before buying to confirm a good fit. The crate’s doorway is 13.5 inches wide and 18.5 inches high.
What We Like:
- Excellent ventilation is provided by strong metal mesh on the front and back, plus vented side panels. Your dog will stay comfortable with good air circulation.
- Moving the crate is simple thanks to sturdy handles molded into the top.
- The crate can be taken apart completely, making it easy to carry or store when not in use.
- The front door slides sideways, which saves space in your vehicle, and it has a secure locking system.
- It comes with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product description mentions it’s ideal for medium to *large* dog breeds, but then specifies a weight range that leans more towards medium to upper-medium. It’s important for owners to carefully consider their dog’s size and weight against the specified dimensions.
- While portability is a pro, the initial assembly might require a bit of effort for some users, though it’s not explicitly stated as difficult.
This Ferplast Atlas SUV Dog Crate offers a secure and comfortable travel solution for your dog. It’s a practical choice for pet owners who frequently travel in SUVs.
Choosing the Best Dog Crate for Your Car: A Buyer’s Guide
Taking your furry friend on road trips can be a joy. A dog crate for your car keeps your dog safe and secure. It also protects your car’s interior. Finding the right crate is important. This guide will help you make a smart choice.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a car dog crate, several features stand out.
Safety First
- Secure Latches: Strong latches keep the crate door shut. This stops your dog from escaping.
- Sturdy Construction: The crate should be built well. It needs to withstand bumps and your dog’s movements.
- Ventilation: Good airflow is crucial. Look for crates with plenty of vents or mesh panels. This keeps your dog comfortable.
Comfort and Size
- Proper Sizing: The crate must be the right size for your dog. Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Too small is unsafe. Too big can make them feel insecure.
- Comfortable Interior: Some crates have padded bottoms. This adds extra comfort for your dog.
Convenience for You
- Easy Cleaning: Accidents happen. A crate with a removable, washable tray makes cleanup simple.
- Portability: If you plan to take the crate out of the car often, a lightweight, foldable design is best.
- Ease of Installation: Some crates secure to your car seats. Look for simple and secure ways to fasten it.
Important Materials
The material of a dog crate affects its durability and safety.
- Metal: Wire crates are popular. They offer excellent ventilation and visibility. They are also strong and chew-resistant. However, they can be heavy.
- Plastic: Hard plastic crates are lightweight. They offer a den-like feel, which some dogs prefer. They are easy to clean. Ensure the plastic is durable and not brittle.
- Fabric: Soft-sided crates are very portable. They are good for smaller dogs or well-behaved travelers. They are not suitable for dogs who chew or try to escape.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a crate great or not so great.
Quality Boosters
- Reinforced Corners: Stronger corners mean a more durable crate.
- Non-Toxic Materials: Ensure all materials are safe for your dog.
- Rust-Resistant Coating: For metal crates, a good coating prevents rust.
Quality Reducers
- Flimsy Construction: A wobbly crate is not safe.
- Sharp Edges: These can injure your dog.
- Weak Latches: These can fail and let your dog out.
- Poor Ventilation: This can make your dog overheat or feel stressed.
User Experience and Use Cases
Dog crates are used in many ways.
- Travel: The most common use is for car travel. It keeps your dog safe during car rides.
- Containment: It can be a safe space for your dog at home. This is helpful if you have guests or if your dog is recovering from an injury.
- Training: Crates can be part of house training. They help teach dogs to be calm and patient.
For car use, consider the size of your car’s trunk or back seat. Measure the space before you buy. A crate that fits snugly is safer.
10 Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Crates for Cars
Q: What is the most important feature of a car dog crate?
A: Safety is the most important feature. This includes secure latches and sturdy construction.
Q: How do I know what size crate to get?
A: Measure your dog. They need to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. The crate should be about twice the length of your dog and tall enough for them to stand.
Q: Are wire crates or plastic crates better for cars?
A: Both have pros and cons. Wire crates offer great ventilation. Plastic crates offer a den-like feel and are lighter. It depends on your dog and your car.
Q: Can a soft-sided crate be used in a car?
A: Yes, for small, calm dogs. They are not suitable for dogs who chew or try to escape.
Q: How do I secure a dog crate in my car?
A: Many crates have straps or tie-downs. Some fit snugly between car seats. Always ensure it is firmly secured.
Q: What if my dog gets carsick in the crate?
A: Talk to your vet. They can suggest ways to help with motion sickness. Proper ventilation in the crate can also help.
Q: How do I clean a dog crate?
A: Many crates have removable trays for easy cleaning. You can wipe down plastic or metal crates. Wash fabric crates according to their instructions.
Q: Can I leave my dog in a crate in the car all day?
A: Never leave your dog unattended in a car, especially in warm weather. Cars can heat up very quickly and become dangerous.
Q: What if my dog is afraid of crates?
A: Introduce the crate slowly. Make it a positive place with treats and toys. Never force your dog into the crate.
Q: Where is the best place to put a dog crate in my car?
A: The back seat or the trunk are common places. Ensure the crate is secured and has good ventilation. If it’s in the trunk, make sure there’s enough airflow.
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.
Hi, I’m Mallory Crusta, the heart and mind behind LovelyPetSpot.com.. As a passionate pet enthusiast, I created this space to share my experiences, expertise, and love for all things pets. Whether it’s helpful tips, heartfelt stories, or advice for pet parents, my mission is to make the journey of caring for your furry, feathery, or scaly friends as joyful and fulfilling as possible. Join me in celebrating the incredible bond we share with our animal companions!