Ever wondered if your car is a safe and happy space for your furry best friend? Many dog owners face a common challenge: finding the perfect way to transport their dog safely and comfortably in their vehicle. It’s not just about shoving a crate in the back; it’s about making sure it fits well, doesn’t slide around, and keeps your pup secure on every adventure. This can feel overwhelming, with so many different types and sizes of crates to consider!
Choosing the right car dog crate isn’t always easy. You want a crate that protects your dog, your car’s interior, and keeps everyone calm during car rides. You might worry about the crate being too big or too small, or if it will even fit in your specific car model. But don’t worry, this post is here to help! By reading on, you’ll discover the key things to look for, understand what makes a crate a great fit for your car, and learn how to make your next road trip a breeze for both you and your canine companion.
Our Top 5 Cars For Dog Crates Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Ferplast Atlas Vehicle SUV Dog Crate | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
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K&H Pet Products Enclosed Dog Car Seat | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
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Love’s cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed – Pop Up Dog Kennel | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
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PAWZIDEA Portable Dog Crate for Car Travel | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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Ferplast Atlas Vehicle SUV Dog Crate | 8.5/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Cars For Dog Crates Detailed Reviews
1. Ferplast Atlas Vehicle SUV Dog Crate
Rating: 9.0/10
The Ferplast Atlas Vehicle SUV Dog Crate is designed to make traveling with your furry friend safer and more comfortable. It fits perfectly in the cargo area of SUVs and hatchback cars. This crate provides a secure space for your dog, ensuring peace of mind during road trips.
What We Like:
- Designed specifically for SUV and hatchback cargo areas.
- Great ventilation with metal mesh and vented side panels keeps your dog cool.
- Sturdy handles make it easy to move.
- The door slides open, saving space in your vehicle.
- It comes with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty.
- The crate can be taken apart for easy storage and travel.
What Could Be Improved:
- You must measure your SUV’s cargo space before buying to ensure a proper fit.
- The door’s opening size (13.5W x 18.5H inches) may be a tight squeeze for some medium to large dogs.
This crate offers a practical solution for pet owners who frequently travel by car. It prioritizes your dog’s comfort and safety while making transportation easier for you.
2. K&H Pet Products Enclosed Dog Car Seat
Rating: 8.7/10
Taking your furry friend on adventures just got a whole lot safer and more comfortable with the K&H Pet Products Enclosed Dog Car Seat. This travel carrier is designed to keep your pet secure and happy on the go.
What We Like:
- Your pet has a safe and cozy spot. It’s fully enclosed, making it a secure place for your cat or dog during car rides.
- The carrier uses your car’s seat belt to buckle in securely. A top strap also tightens around the headrest for extra stability.
- Getting your pet in and out is super easy! It has five doors, including large zippered doors on the sides and a front door.
- Accidents happen, but cleanup is simple. The carrier has a removable, machine-washable pad at the bottom.
- When not in use, it folds flat. This makes it easy to store in your car or at home.
- The mesh windows on the sides and front let your pet see out. This can help reduce travel anxiety.
- K&H is a trusted brand with over 25 years of experience. They focus on making safe and high-quality pet products.
What Could Be Improved:
- The medium size is best for pets weighing up to 20 pounds and with a length shorter than 24 inches. You need to measure your pet carefully to ensure a good fit.
This carrier offers a great solution for pet travel, providing both safety and convenience.
3. Love’s cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed – Pop Up Dog Kennel
Rating: 9.0/10
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 at home or on the go. This grey kennel doubles as a cozy pet bed and a secure travel crate, perfect for cats and small dogs up to 40 lbs. Its thoughtful design makes it an excellent choice for modern pet parents who value convenience and their pet’s well-being.
What We Like:
- Generous size (36.6″L x 21.2″W x 21.2″H) offers ample space for pets up to 40 lbs.
- Excellent ventilation with mesh panels on the front and sides keeps your pet cool and comfortable.
- Easy to set up and take down thanks to the pop-up design and convenient zipper door.
- Built-in seatbelt straps securely fasten the kennel in your car for safe travel.
- Lightweight and collapsible for effortless portability and storage.
- Made from durable, high-grade thick mesh and 600 D polyester oxford fabric.
- Risk-free purchase with a lifetime, no-questions-asked refund or replacement guarantee.
What Could Be Improved:
- While lightweight for portability, it may not be sturdy enough for extremely energetic pets without supervision.
- Hand wash cold is the only cleaning method; no machine washing or tumbling dry.
This Love’s Cabin kennel provides a safe and comfortable space for your pet. Its portability and ease of use make it a standout option for any pet owner.
4. PAWZIDEA Portable Dog Crate for Car Travel
Rating: 9.4/10
The PAWZIDEA Portable Dog Crate for Car Travel is a game-changer for pet parents on the go. This soft-sided carrier offers a comfortable and secure space for your medium to large dog during car trips, vet visits, or even as a cozy den at home.
What We Like:
- It’s extra-large, giving your dog plenty of room to sit and relax, even up to 80lbs.
- Setup and takedown are super fast with its pop-up design, and it folds flat for easy storage.
- Installation is a breeze with its 3-step process, and it secures safely to your car seat with straps.
- The chew-proof mesh provides excellent airflow and visibility, helping to calm anxious pets.
- Multiple entry points and a feeding window make it super convenient for accessing your dog.
- The removable, washable cushion keeps your dog comfy and protects your car seats.
- It’s also a great indoor/outdoor dog house when you’re not traveling.
- Reflective strips add safety for nighttime use.
What Could Be Improved:
- The crate requires a minimum rear seat depth and seat-to-roof height, so it’s important to check your car’s dimensions first.
- While generally sturdy, the soft-sided nature might not be suitable for dogs who are extreme escape artists or very destructive chewers.
This PAWZIDEA crate makes traveling with your dog much easier and safer. It’s a well-designed solution for comfortable and secure pet transport.
5. Ferplast Atlas Vehicle SUV Dog Crate
Rating: 9.0/10
The Ferplast Atlas Vehicle SUV Dog Crate is a smart solution for pet parents who travel with their furry friends. This black crate is designed to fit snugly in the cargo area of SUVs and hatchbacks, giving your small to medium-sized dog a secure and comfortable space. It’s built for safety and ease of use, making car rides less stressful for everyone.
What We Like:
- Specifically designed for SUV cargo areas.
- Offers excellent ventilation with metal mesh and vented side panels.
- Sturdy handles make it easy to move.
- The crate can be taken apart for simple storage or transport.
- The front door slides open to save space.
- It comes with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty for peace of mind.
- Ideal for small to medium dogs up to 35 pounds.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s important to measure your SUV’s cargo space before buying to ensure a perfect fit.
- The doorway dimensions (11.25W x 17.32H inches) might be a bit tight for some breeds, even within the weight limit.
This crate provides a secure travel environment for your dog. It’s a practical choice for keeping your pet safe and comfortable on the go.
Choosing the Best Car for Your Dog’s Crate: A Guide for Happy Travels
Taking your furry friend along for the ride? It’s exciting! But you need a car that makes traveling with a dog crate safe and easy. This guide helps you find the perfect vehicle.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a car that accommodates dog crates, several features stand out.
Space and Layout
- Cargo Space: The most important thing is enough room. You need space for your dog’s crate, whether it’s a small one for a chihuahua or a large one for a Great Dane. Look at the cubic feet of cargo space. This tells you how much room you have.
- Cargo Area Shape: A square or rectangular cargo area is usually best. It makes fitting a crate much simpler. Odd shapes can make it hard to place the crate securely.
- Cargo Height: Make sure the crate fits without hitting the ceiling. This is especially important for taller dogs who might stand up in their crates.
- Low Load Floor: A lower cargo floor makes it easier to lift your dog and their crate into the car. It’s also easier for older or less mobile dogs to get in and out.
Safety and Security
- Tie-Down Points: Strong hooks or loops in the cargo area help you secure the crate. This stops it from sliding around during sudden stops or turns.
- Reinforced Cargo Area: A sturdy cargo area can better protect your dog in case of an accident.
- Ventilation: Good airflow is crucial. Cars with good ventilation or options for window screens help keep your dog comfortable.
Ease of Use
- Wide Cargo Opening: A large trunk opening makes loading and unloading the crate much easier.
- Third-Row Seating Options: If you have a larger family and a large dog crate, a car with flexible seating can be a lifesaver. You can fold down the third row for extra cargo space.
- Accessory Options: Some cars offer pet-specific accessories like cargo liners or barriers. These can make your life easier.
Important Materials
The materials in your car’s cargo area matter for both durability and cleanliness.
- Durable Flooring: Look for tough, easy-to-clean flooring. Rubber or high-quality plastic are great choices. They resist scratches and are simple to wipe down after muddy paw prints or spills.
- Water-Resistant Surfaces: These help prevent damage from accidents or wet dogs.
- Soft Interior Trim: While not as critical as cargo floor, softer materials around the cargo opening can prevent dings and scratches on your crate.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a car great or not-so-great for dog crate travel.
Improving Quality
- Spacious Design: Cars designed with ample cargo space and a practical layout are always a win.
- Built-in Pet Features: Some brands offer integrated features like ramps or special tie-downs. These show the manufacturer considered pet owners.
- Excellent Safety Ratings: High safety ratings mean your dog is well-protected.
Reducing Quality
- Limited Cargo Space: Small cars or those with sloped rear designs often lack the necessary room.
- Sharp Interior Edges: These can damage crates and be a hazard.
- Poor Ventilation: A stuffy car is uncomfortable and unsafe for your dog.
- Difficult Loading Access: A high load floor or small opening makes things tough.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use the car.
- Daily Commutes: If you take your dog to the park or vet regularly, you need a car that’s easy to load and unload quickly. SUVs and crossovers are popular for this.
- Road Trips: For longer journeys, comfort is key. You’ll want plenty of space for the crate, plus room for your dog to move a little if possible. Wagons and minivans often excel here.
- Multiple Dogs: If you have more than one dog, you’ll need even more space. Some larger SUVs or minivans can fit multiple crates.
- Specific Dog Needs: Does your dog get car sick? A smoother ride and good ventilation are extra important. Is your dog a big chewer? Durable materials are a must.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cars for Dog Crates
Q: What is the most important feature when choosing a car for a dog crate?
A: The most important feature is sufficient cargo space. You need enough room for your dog’s crate to fit comfortably and securely.
Q: Are SUVs or sedans better for dog crates?
A: SUVs are generally better. They usually have more cargo space, a more open layout, and a higher roofline, making it easier to fit crates.
Q: How can I make sure the crate won’t move around in the car?
A: Look for cars with tie-down points in the cargo area. You can use these to strap the crate down securely.
Q: What kind of flooring is best in the cargo area for a dog crate?
A: Durable and easy-to-clean flooring, like rubber or tough plastic, is best. It resists damage and is simple to wipe clean.
Q: Should I worry about the height of the cargo area?
A: Yes. Make sure the cargo area height is enough for your dog to stand up comfortably inside their crate without hitting the ceiling.
Q: What if my dog is large and has a big crate?
A: You will need a car with a very large cargo area. Consider larger SUVs, minivans, or trucks with covered beds.
Q: Are there cars designed specifically for pet owners?
A: While not many are made *only* for pets, some brands offer pet-friendly accessories or have designs that naturally work well for dog owners.
Q: How does a low load floor help?
A: A low load floor makes it easier to lift your dog and their crate into the car. It also helps dogs with mobility issues get in and out.
Q: Can I use the back seat for a dog crate?
A: Sometimes, but it’s often less safe and takes up passenger space. Cargo areas are usually preferred for secure crate placement.
Q: What if I have a convertible car?
A: Convertibles are generally not ideal for dog crates due to limited, exposed cargo space and safety concerns.
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!