Does your dog deserve a comfy, safe space, but you’re tired of bulky crates taking up all your room? You’re not alone! Many dog owners face the challenge of finding a crate that’s both practical for their home and perfect for their furry friend.
Choosing a collapsible dog crate can feel like a maze. You want something sturdy and secure for your dog, but also something that folds away easily when not in use. It’s tough to know which features really matter, like durability, size, and how well it actually collapses. You might worry about your dog feeling trapped or the crate not being strong enough.
This post is here to help you navigate those worries! We’ll break down what makes a great collapsible dog crate, looking at important features and what to avoid. By the end, you’ll feel confident knowing exactly what to look for to give your dog the best cozy den without cluttering your living space.
Let’s dive in and find the perfect collapsible crate for your canine companion!
Our Top 5 Collapsible Dog Crate Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Collapsible Dog Crate Detailed Reviews
1. EHEYCIGA Collapsible Dog Crate 36 Inches
Rating: 8.7/10
The EHEYCIGA Collapsible Dog Crate 36 Inches is a fantastic, portable option for large dog owners. Whether you’re heading out on an adventure or just need a safe space at home, this soft, foldable pet kennel has you covered. It’s designed for both indoor and outdoor use, offering comfort and security for your furry friend.
What We Like:
- Enhanced Security: Welded steel bars and dual-locking doors keep your dog safe and sound.
- Great Visibility and Breathability: Durable mesh windows provide a wide view and keep air flowing.
- Travel-Friendly: It collapses easily for storage in cars or closets, perfect for road trips and camping.
- Tool-Free Setup: You can set it up in seconds, making it super convenient.
- Easy to Clean: The comfortable memory foam pad is machine washable.
- Safety Features: Includes an interior leash clip and even safety reflectors for added peace of mind.
- Versatile Design: It has 4 adjustable sizes to fit different breeds and can be used for home or travel.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, the soft material might not be suitable for extremely destructive chewers.
- The 36-inch size might be a bit snug for some of the largest breeds, so double-check dimensions.
Overall, the EHEYCIGA Collapsible Dog Crate offers a great blend of security, portability, and ease of use. It’s a smart choice for any dog owner looking for a reliable and comfortable pet enclosure.
2. Amazon Basics Durable
Rating: 9.1/10
The Amazon Basics 36-inch dog crate is a practical choice for pet owners. It’s built with strong metal wire for lasting use. This crate is easy to set up and folds flat, making it simple to move or store. It also comes with a divider to adjust the space inside, perfect for growing pups. The removable tray makes cleaning up messes a breeze.
What We Like:
- It’s made of durable metal wire that holds up well.
- The crate folds flat, so it’s easy to carry and store.
- A divider panel lets you change the size of the crate as your dog grows.
- The plastic tray slides out easily for quick and simple cleaning.
- A special hook keeps the tray securely in place.
- It’s designed for dogs under 32 inches long and 21 inches high, fitting breeds like Corgis or Cocker Spaniels.
What Could Be Improved:
- The door has a manual lock, which might require extra attention to ensure it’s fully secure.
- You need to remember to lock the hook for the tray every time you use it.
This crate offers good value and functionality for safely housing your dog. It’s a solid option for travel, training, or everyday containment.
3. Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel
Rating: 9.2/10
Heading out on an adventure with your furry friend? The Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel in Tan is designed to keep your dog safe and comfy on the go. This medium-sized crate is made from tough polyester fabric and features a strong yet lightweight frame, making it ideal for travel. It’s perfect for breeds like Blue Heelers and Golden Retrievers, weighing up to 50 lbs. You can set it up in a flash, and it folds down flat for easy carrying and storage.
What We Like:
- Super easy to set up and take down – no tools needed!
- Two doors (top and front) make getting your dog in and out a breeze.
- Mesh windows on all sides provide excellent airflow to keep your dog cool.
- Folds flat, making it simple to store and transport.
- Secure zippers keep the doors closed safely.
- It’s a budget-friendly option for a travel crate.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s soft-sided, it might not be sturdy enough for dogs who are strong chewers or diggers.
- The tan color could show dirt more easily during travel.
This Amazon Basics dog crate is a solid choice for pet parents who need a reliable and easy-to-use travel solution. It offers convenience and comfort for your dog without breaking the bank.
4. Lesure Soft Collapsible Dog Crate – 36 Inch Portable Travel Crate for Large Dogs Indoor & Outdoor
Rating: 9.2/10
The Lesure Soft Collapsible Dog Crate is a fantastic option for pet parents on the go. This 36-inch portable travel crate is designed for large dogs and works well both indoors and outdoors. It’s a foldable pet kennel with mesh windows, and it comes in a sleek black color.
What We Like:
- It folds up super small, making it easy to carry and store. A handy bag is included for travel.
- Setting it up takes only about 2 minutes. Taking it down is just as simple.
- The mesh walls on all four sides let in lots of fresh air. This keeps your dog cool and comfortable.
- A soft mat inside makes it a cozy spot for your dog to rest.
- The strong iron frame keeps the crate sturdy.
- Reflective strips on the sides help you see your dog better in low light.
- The zippers lock themselves, so your dog can’t escape.
- The mesh keeps your dog safely inside.
- There’s a leash inside to keep your dog extra secure.
- Cleaning is a breeze because the fabric is water-resistant. You just need a damp cloth.
- The mat can be removed and washed in the machine.
- It comes in different sizes to fit all kinds of dogs, from small to large.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the fabric is water-resistant, it might not hold up to heavy rain for long periods.
- Some users might find that very energetic dogs could potentially chew through the mesh if they are determined.
Overall, this Lesure Soft Collapsible Dog Crate offers great portability and comfort for your furry friend. It’s a well-designed kennel that makes traveling with your dog much easier.
5. MidWest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single & Double Door iCrate Dog Crate
Rating: 8.7/10
The MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate is a newly improved dog crate designed to keep your furry friend safe and comfortable. It’s built with strong materials and has special features to give your dog a secure den they can call their own. This crate is easy to set up and take down, making it great for both home use and travel.
What We Like:
- Enhanced Security: The slide-bolt door latch now has patented Paw Block and locking tips, making it much harder for your dog to escape.
- Perfect Fit: It includes a divider panel, so you can adjust the space as your dog grows. This 30-inch crate is ideal for medium breeds weighing 25 to 40 pounds.
- Built to Last: The crate is made with durable, quality construction for a secure den. It also has a leak-proof pan and protective rubber feet to keep your floors clean and safe.
- Travel Friendly: It sets up in seconds with no tools needed and folds flat for easy portability.
- Comfortable Design: Good ventilation, wide doors with low thresholds, and rounded corner clips ensure a safe and comfortable experience for your dog.
- Helpful Support: A customer support team based in Indiana is available to help if you have questions.
What Could Be Improved:
- Size Recommendation: If your dog is at the higher end of the weight or size range for this crate, it’s recommended to buy the next size up.
This iCrate offers a fantastic combination of safety, durability, and convenience for your dog. It’s a reliable choice for providing your pet with a secure and comfortable space.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Collapsible Dog Crates
Collapsible dog crates offer a fantastic solution for pet owners. They provide a safe space for your dog, help with house training, and make travel much easier. But with so many options, how do you choose the right one? This guide will help you find the perfect collapsible crate for your furry friend.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a collapsible dog crate, consider these important features:
- **Size:** The crate should be big enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Too small is cruel, and too big can make house training harder.
- **Durability:** A sturdy crate will last longer and keep your dog safe. Look for strong frames and secure latches.
- **Portability:** Since it’s collapsible, it should fold down easily for storage and transport. Check how compact it gets and how much it weighs.
- **Ventilation:** Good airflow is crucial for your dog’s comfort. Crates with mesh sides or multiple doors offer better ventilation.
- **Ease of Cleaning:** Accidents happen. A crate with a removable, washable pan makes cleanup a breeze.
- **Safety Features:** Rounded corners and secure locking mechanisms prevent injuries.
Important Materials
The materials used in a collapsible crate greatly affect its quality and your dog’s experience.
- Wire: This is a common material for durable crates. It offers excellent ventilation and visibility. Look for coated wire that won’t rust or snag fur.
- Fabric: Soft-sided crates are lightweight and often more comfortable for travel. They are usually made from nylon or polyester. However, they are less durable and not ideal for chewers.
- Plastic: Some crates use plastic panels, often combined with a metal frame. These can be easy to clean and offer good protection, but ventilation might be less.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several factors can make a collapsible crate great or just okay.
- Sturdy Frame: A strong, well-welded frame makes the crate more stable and secure. Flimsy frames can bend or break.
- Secure Latches: Reliable latches keep the doors shut tight. A dog that can easily open the crate can escape.
- Smooth Welds and Edges: Sharp edges or rough welds can injure your dog. Quality crates will have smooth finishes.
- Reinforced Corners: Stronger corners add to the overall durability and prevent the crate from falling apart.
- Chew-Resistance: If your dog is a chewer, look for crates made with tougher materials that can withstand some gnawing. Fabric crates are usually not chew-resistant.
User Experience and Use Cases
Collapsible crates are versatile and can be used in many ways.
- House Training: A crate can help your dog learn to go to the bathroom outside. Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area.
- Safe Haven: It provides a den-like space where your dog can feel secure and relax, especially during fireworks or when visitors are over.
- Travel Companion: Collapsible crates are perfect for road trips, flights, or visits to the vet. They give your dog a familiar space in new environments.
- Containment: When you can’t supervise your dog, a crate keeps them safe and prevents them from getting into trouble.
- Easy Storage: When not in use, they fold flat, taking up minimal space in your home or car.
By considering these points, you can confidently choose a collapsible dog crate that meets your dog’s needs and your own.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How do I measure my dog for a crate?
A: Measure your dog from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail. Then, measure them from the floor to the top of their head. The crate should be at least as long as your dog’s nose-to-tail length and tall enough for them to stand comfortably.
Q: Are fabric crates safe for aggressive chewers?
A: Generally, no. Fabric crates are not very durable and can be easily chewed through by strong chewers. Metal wire crates are a better choice for dogs that like to chew.
Q: How do I introduce my dog to their new crate?
A: Make the crate a positive place. Put treats and toys inside. Leave the door open at first. Feed your dog meals in the crate. Never use the crate as punishment.
Q: Can my dog be left in a collapsible crate all day?
A: No, dogs need exercise and interaction. Limit the time your dog spends in the crate to a few hours at a time, especially when they are first getting used to it. Always ensure they have access to water.
Q: What if my dog barks or whines in the crate?
A: This usually means they need more time to adjust. Ignore the barking, but reward them with praise and treats when they are quiet. Ensure they have had enough exercise before crating.
Q: How easy is it to assemble a collapsible dog crate?
A: Most collapsible crates are designed for easy setup. They usually unfold and lock into place with minimal effort. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions.
Q: Can I use a collapsible crate for outdoor use?
A: Some crates are designed for outdoor use, especially wire ones. However, most fabric crates are not weather-resistant. Always protect your dog from extreme weather conditions.
Q: How do I clean a collapsible dog crate?
A: For wire crates, a damp cloth or mild soap and water is usually sufficient. For fabric crates, check the care label for specific cleaning instructions. Removable pans can often be washed in a dishwasher or sink.
Q: What is the difference between a wire crate and a fabric crate?
A: Wire crates are generally more durable, offer better ventilation, and are easier to clean. Fabric crates are lighter, softer, and better for travel, but less durable and harder to clean.
Q: How much should I expect to spend on a collapsible dog crate?
A: Prices vary widely depending on the size, material, and brand. You can find basic fabric crates for around $30-$60, while sturdy wire crates can range from $50-$150 or more.
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!