Does your furry friend whine and pace every time you hit the road? Traveling with your dog can be a joy, but it can also be a headache if they aren’t safely secured. Choosing the right car dog crate is super important for your dog’s safety and your peace of mind, but where do you even start? So many crates look alike, and it’s tough to know which one will actually work best for your car and your dog.
You might be worried about your dog getting hurt in an accident, or maybe they just get too excited and distract you while you’re driving. The good news is, you don’t have to guess anymore! By the end of this post, you’ll understand what makes a great car dog crate and how to pick the perfect one for your adventures. We’ll break down the most important things to look for, from size and security to comfort and cleaning.
Ready to make your car rides safer and happier for everyone? Let’s dive in and find the ideal crate that will make every trip a breeze!
Our Top 5 Car Dog Crate Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Car Dog Crate Detailed Reviews
1. PetSafe Happy Ride Collapsible Travel Crate – Safe Travel Containment with Heavy Duty Aluminum Frame
Rating: 8.8/10
Hit the road with your furry friend in the PetSafe Happy Ride Collapsible Travel Crate! This crate is designed for safe and comfortable car trips, making every journey a joy for both you and your pet. Its strong aluminum frame and secure seat belt access ensure your pet stays put.
What We Like:
- Keeps your pet safe and secure in the backseat with seatbelt straps and a headrest loop.
- Folds flat for easy storage, making it great for small cars and road trips.
- Offers a cozy spot for your pet with soft sides, mesh windows for airflow, and a comfy fleece pad.
- Dual side doors make getting your pet in and out super easy.
- Handy storage pockets keep your pet’s essentials close by.
- PetSafe has been making trusted pet products for over 25 years, with a focus on safety and joy.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the aluminum frame is strong, some users might prefer a more rigid structure for very active pets.
- The soft-sided nature, while good for comfort, might not offer the same level of protection as a hard-sided crate in extreme situations.
This PetSafe crate makes traveling with your pet much easier and safer. It’s a fantastic option for anyone who loves taking their dog on adventures.
2. K&H Pet Products Enclosed Dog Car Seat
Rating: 9.0/10
Hit the road with your furry friend in total comfort and safety thanks to the K&H Pet Products Enclosed Dog Car Seat. This travel carrier offers a cozy and secure spot for your cat or dog on any adventure. It’s designed with your pet’s well-being and your peace of mind as top priorities.
What We Like:
- Secure and Safe: The carrier fully encloses your pet, providing a safe space. It uses your car’s seat belt and a headrest strap to stay put, so no more worries about your pet moving around.
- Easy Pet Access: With five zippered doors, getting your pet in and out is super simple. The front door also lets you give food and water without letting your pet escape.
- Great Visibility: Mesh windows on all sides and a full mesh front let your pet see out, reducing travel anxiety.
- Easy Cleanup: The carrier has a removable, machine-washable pad. Accidents happen, but cleaning them up is a breeze.
- Space-Saving Design: It folds flat, making storage easy when you’re not traveling with your pet.
- Trusted Brand: K&H Pet Products has over 25 years of experience making quality pet gear. This carrier comes with a 1-year limited warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- Size Matters: The medium size holds up to 20 pounds. It’s important to measure your pet to make sure they’ll fit comfortably.
This K&H Pet Products carrier makes traveling with your pet much easier and safer. It’s a reliable option for pet parents on the go.
3. Ferplast Atlas Vehicle SUV Dog Crate
Rating: 8.6/10
Travel safely and comfortably with your furry friend using the Ferplast Atlas Vehicle SUV Dog Crate. This black crate is designed to fit perfectly in the cargo area of SUVs and hatchbacks, making road trips a breeze for you and your dog. It’s ideal for medium to intermediate dog breeds, ensuring they have their own secure space.
What We Like:
- Designed specifically for SUV and hatchback cargo areas.
- Good ventilation with metal mesh and vented side panels keeps your dog cool.
- Sturdy handles make it easy to move the crate.
- The crate can be taken apart for simple storage or transport.
- The front door slides open, saving space in your vehicle.
- Includes a convenient locking system for added security.
- Comes with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s crucial to measure your SUV’s cargo area before buying to ensure a proper fit.
- While ideal for medium to intermediate breeds, larger or very active dogs might need more space.
The Ferplast Atlas Vehicle SUV Dog Crate offers a secure and well-ventilated travel solution for your dog. It’s a practical choice for pet owners who enjoy adventures with their canine companions.
4. Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel
Rating: 9.3/10
Traveling with your dog just got a whole lot easier with the Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel. This medium-sized crate, measuring 30″ x 21″ x 21″ in a stylish tan color, offers a safe and cozy spot for your furry friend on any adventure. Made from durable polyester fabric and a strong yet light frame, it sets up in a snap, no tools required. Plus, it folds flat for super easy carrying and storage.
What We Like:
- Super easy to set up and take down – you can do it in seconds!
- Two doors (top and front) make getting your dog in and out a breeze.
- Mesh windows on all sides let in plenty of fresh air, keeping your dog comfy.
- Folds flat for simple storage and carrying.
- Secure zippers keep the doors shut tight.
- Great for medium breeds like Blue Heelers and Golden Retrievers (up to 50 lbs).
- It’s a good value for the price.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s sturdy, it might not be the best option for dogs who are super chewers.
- It’s a soft-sided crate, so it won’t offer the same hard protection as a plastic or wire crate.
This Amazon Basics crate is a fantastic choice for pet parents who travel often or need a temporary, comfortable space for their dog. It offers great convenience and comfort for your canine companion.
5. Love’s cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed – Pop Up Dog Kennel
Rating: 9.5/10
Introducing the Love’s cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed, a versatile pop-up kennel designed for your furry friend’s comfort and safety, whether you’re at home or on the go. This grey pet bed is perfect for cats and dogs up to 40 lbs, offering a cozy spot for them to relax and snooze.
What We Like:
- Excellent ventilation with mesh on the front and sides keeps your pet cool and comfortable.
- The easy-to-use zipper door allows for simple access.
- It’s super portable and folds down flat in seconds, making travel and storage a breeze.
- Built-in seatbelt straps ensure it stays secure in your car for safe travels.
- Made with durable, high-grade mesh and 600 D polyester oxford fabric for a sturdy feel.
- The brand offers a lifetime, no-questions-asked refund or replacement, giving you peace of mind.
- It’s lightweight, making it easy to carry around.
What Could Be Improved:
- Because it’s lightweight, it might not be the best choice for extremely energetic pets without supervision.
- The fabric weight of 180 grams, while durable, might not feel as robust as heavier materials for some users.
- Care instructions require hand washing in cold water and strictly prohibit bleach, tumble drying, ironing, or dry cleaning, which can be a bit more work.
This portable kennel provides a secure and comfortable space for your pet, making it a fantastic option for adventures and everyday use. Its thoughtful design and commitment to customer satisfaction make it a worthwhile addition to your pet-care essentials.
Choosing the Best Car Dog Crate: Your Furry Friend’s Safe Ride
Taking your dog on adventures is fantastic! A car dog crate makes travel safer and more comfortable for your canine companion. It’s like a cozy den on wheels. This guide helps you pick the right one.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a car dog crate, several features make a big difference.
Safety First
- Secure Latches: Strong latches keep the door shut tight. Your dog won’t accidentally escape.
- Sturdy Construction: The crate should feel solid. It shouldn’t wobble or feel flimsy. This protects your dog in case of sudden stops.
- Ventilation: Good airflow is super important. Look for crates with mesh sides or plenty of openings. This keeps your dog from getting too hot.
- Escape-Proof Design: Some crates have special designs to prevent clever dogs from getting out.
Comfort is Key
- Right Size: The crate must be big enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Too small is bad, and too big can make them feel insecure.
- Soft Bedding: Many crates don’t come with a bed. You’ll want to add a soft, washable pad.
- Smooth Interior: No sharp edges inside! Your dog’s fur and skin should be safe.
Convenience for You
- Easy to Clean: Accidents happen. A crate with a removable tray or one that’s easy to wipe down saves you a lot of hassle.
- Portability: If you plan to take the crate out of the car often, look for one that’s lightweight and easy to fold or carry.
- Car Fit: Measure your car’s cargo space. Make sure the crate will fit without blocking your view or taking up too much room.
2. Important Materials
The materials used affect how strong, safe, and easy to clean the crate is.
Durable Metals
- Steel: This is a very strong material. Steel crates are usually the most durable and secure. They can be heavy, though.
- Aluminum: Lighter than steel, aluminum is still quite strong. It’s a good option if you need something a bit lighter.
Tough Plastics
- High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE): This plastic is very strong and impact-resistant. Many hard-sided crates use this. It’s also easy to clean.
Fabrics for Soft Crates
- Nylon and Polyester: These are common for soft-sided crates. Look for heavy-duty versions that are tear-resistant. They are lightweight and often foldable.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The way a crate is built and the small details really matter.
What Makes a Crate Better
- Welded Seams: Strong, welded seams on metal crates mean fewer weak points.
- Reinforced Corners: Extra reinforcement in corners adds durability.
- Non-Toxic Materials: Ensure all materials are safe for your dog. No paint or coatings that could be harmful if chewed.
- Rubber Feet: These protect your car’s interior and stop the crate from sliding.
What Can Make a Crate Less Good
- Cheap Plastic: Thin, brittle plastic can crack easily.
- Poor Welding: Weak welds on metal crates can break.
- Sharp Edges: Any rough or sharp edges inside or outside are a safety hazard.
- Flimsy Latches: Latches that are hard to close or feel loose are a big problem.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How people use their car dog crates shows what works best.
A Safe Haven
Many owners use crates to help their dog feel secure. A new dog or a dog that gets anxious in the car can benefit greatly. The crate becomes their personal space.
Training Tool
Crates are excellent for house training and preventing destructive behavior when you’re away. It’s a safe place for them.
Travel Buddy
From quick trips to the vet to long road trips, a crate keeps your dog safe and contained. It also keeps your car clean.
Emergency Preparedness
In case of an emergency, a crate helps you evacuate your pet quickly and safely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I choose the right size crate for my dog?
A: Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside the crate. Measure your dog from nose to tail and from paw to top of head. Add a few inches to those measurements for the crate dimensions.
Q: Are soft-sided crates safe for car travel?
A: Soft-sided crates are best for calmer dogs or for short trips. For dogs that are anxious, prone to chewing, or for longer travel, a sturdy hard-sided or metal crate is generally safer.
Q: How do I introduce my dog to the crate?
A: Start by leaving the door open and putting treats or toys inside. Let your dog explore it on their own. Gradually close the door for short periods while you are present, and then for longer periods.
Q: What if my dog is a chewer?
A: If your dog is a strong chewer, opt for a heavy-duty metal crate. Avoid crates with plastic components that can be easily broken or ingested.
Q: How do I clean a car dog crate?
A: Most crates can be cleaned with mild soap and water. For plastic crates, a disinfectant spray works well. For fabric crates, check the washing instructions. Removable trays make cleaning much easier.
Q: Can I leave my dog in a crate in the car all day?
A: Never leave your dog in a crate in a car for extended periods, especially in warm weather. Cars can heat up very quickly and become dangerous. Always ensure good ventilation and never leave them unattended.
Q: Do I need a crate that’s specifically for cars?
A: While some crates are designed with car travel in mind (like collapsible or angled ones), many standard dog crates can be used safely in a car if they fit properly and are secured.
Q: What is the best material for a car dog crate?
A: The best material depends on your needs. Metal (steel or aluminum) offers the most security and durability. High-density plastic is also very strong and easy to clean. Heavy-duty fabric is good for portability and comfort for calm dogs.
Q: How do I secure the crate in my car?
A: Many crates come with straps or tie-down points. You can also use bungee cords or cargo nets to keep the crate from sliding around during transit. Ensure it is stable.
Q: My dog seems scared of the crate. What should I do?
A: Be patient. Make the crate a positive place by associating it with good things like treats and praise. Never force your dog into the crate. Slow, positive introductions are key.
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!