Does the thought of traveling or training your dog bring a mix of excitement and worry? You want a safe, cozy space for your furry friend, but the sheer number of soft-sided dog crates available can feel overwhelming. Many owners struggle to figure out which crate truly offers the best combination of durability, ventilation, and comfort for their specific dog and lifestyle.
Choosing the right soft-sided crate is crucial. A poor choice can lead to stress for your pet or a crate that falls apart after just a few trips. We understand the pain points: you need something strong enough for a determined chewer yet light enough to carry easily. You shouldn’t have to guess which features actually matter.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what makes a soft-sided crate “rated” well—covering everything from material strength to ease of cleaning. By the end of this post, you will know precisely what features to look for to find a crate that perfectly suits your needs.
Ready to discover the best, most reliable soft-sided dog crates on the market? Let’s dive into the details that matter most for your dog’s safety and happiness.
Top Rated Soft Sided Dog Crates Recommendations
- Soft-sided dog crate for keeping a furry 4-legged friend safe and comfortable when traveling, includes a Small dog crate made of tan polyester fabric and a lightweight yet sturdy frame
- Sets up in seconds with no tools needed; folds flat for easy portability and compact storage;2 doors (top and front) for easy loading and unloading
- Secure zipper closures, plus fastening straps to keep unzipped rolled-up doors in place and out of the way; mesh windows and front door provide ventilation on all 4 sides
- Recommended for medium sized breeds such as Blue Heelers and Golden Retrievers (50 lbs)
- Product dimensions: 29.92"L x 21.3"W x 21.3''H (LxWxH)
- Discover the Newly Released Light Gray Soft Dog Crate! This 36" soft crate measures 36" long x 24" wide x 28" high, which is 2" wider and 4" higher than most other brand 36" soft crates. The extra space provides a more spacious and comfortable environment for your dog. The soft crate is fully assembled and can be set up and folded down in seconds, without requiring any tools
- The crate frame is constructed from sturdy steel tubing, while the crate cover is made of high-quality, durable 600D fabric and hex mesh fabric. This makes a well-ventilated, stylish, lightweight, and durable crate that provides a comfortable and secure environment for your dog
- The crate features three mesh doors located on the top, front, and side, providing convenient access, improved sunlight, and breathability. The front and side doors have zipper locks to ensure safety and security. Additionally, the crate has two accessory pockets located on the top and back for added storage. The crate cover and bed cover are both removable and washable, making maintenance and cleaning easy
- The crate comes with a free carrying bag and fleece bed. The crate has a handle and hand carrying straps, while the carrying bag features both hand carrying straps and an adjustable padded shoulder strap, providing many carrying options. The crate can be folded down to a height of just 3 inches, making it easy to transport and store
- You will benefit from a 2-YEAR WARRANTY. Our products come with a quality guarantee, money-back guarantee, and customer satisfaction guarantee
- Foldable Design for Easy Transport: This soft dog crate features a foldable function, allowing for effortless unfolding and folding. Equipped with a convenient handle, it is easy to store and transport. Whether using it at home or while traveling, it saves valuable space and provides a comfortable living environment for your pet.
- Stable Structure and High-quality Materials: Made with high-strength iron pipes and high-quality 600D Oxford fabric, this collapsible dog crate is both lightweight and sturdy. The Oxford fabric is long-lasting, tear-tough, and convenient to clean, ensuring the crate's long-term durability.
- Good Ventilation: The dog crate includes three breathable mesh windows that provide ample airflow, keeping your pet comfortable inside. The mesh design allows you to easily observe your pet's condition, enhancing their sense of security and comfort. Additionally, you can unzip the door to roll up the mesh, allowing your dog to come and go freely.
- Detail-Oriented Design: Built-in safety leash secures your pet's collar, keeping them securely in the crate. The soft plush pad inside provides a comfortable relaxation space. The soft dog crate also features an external storage pocket for placing toys or treats during outings.
- Multiple Size Options: Available in three sizes to accommodate different breeds, from small to large dogs. Before purchasing, please measure your dog’s standing length, width, and height and refer to the size chart in the images to ensure you choose the correct size.
- 【Large Capacity & Portable】Portable small dog crate: 24*17*17inch, perfect for large cat, two cats or small dogs(e.g., Malteese, Boston Terrier, Mini Schnauzer, etc.). Hold pets up to 12-30 pounds (More Space, More Freedom, More Love!). The soft dog crate sets up and folds down effortlessly in seconds—no tools needed—making it ideal for storage and travel.
- 【Sturdy & Anti-collision protection】Made with strong & lightweight steel frame, rugged 600D Oxford cloth, and hex mesh fabric. There are anti-collision protection pads on the four corners to protect the pet cage from wearing and tearing, as well as protect home decoration and car interiors.
- 【360°Ventilation & Multi-Door Access】Four-sided mesh panels ensure excellent airflow and a clear view for your pet, while three secure doors allow freedom to enter and exit. Ideal for road trips or vet visits—especially in SUVs or midsize vehicles. Please note: this puppy crate is not designed for compact cars or airline travel.
- 【Comfortable & Thoughtful Add-Ons】The soft collapsible dog crate for travel is equipped with a soft mat for extra comfort, which is removable & washable. What's more, you'll find a cozy blanket and a foldable travel bowl. These extras help keep your pet comfortable and content during adventures near and far.
- 【Secure & User-Friendly Features】 A adjustable leash attached to your pup’s collar and lockable zippers on the door can keep the pet secure inside. The top handle offers easy carrying, and side pockets store toys or treats. Not recommended for persistent chewers or escape-prone pets—mesh and zipper may be damaged by determined scratching or biting.
- Enhanced Security & Stability Upgrades: Our collapsible dog crate is made with welded heavy-duty steel bars and dual-locking doors to keep even the strongest escape artists safely contained. The durable mesh material is not only scratch-resistant but also provides a wide view and great breathability.
- Travel-Friendly Pet Crate: Need to store or travel? This portable dog kennel collapses for easy storage in car trunks, closets, or RVs. Perfect for camping, road trips, or moving houses—sets up in seconds with no tools! Perfect for dog owners with outdoor & indoor lifestyles.
- Easy-Clean & Safety Design: Enjoy the comfort of premium memory foam with the convenience of machine-washable care - no special cleaning required. An interior leash attachment clips to your pup' s collar to keep them secure inside this travel dog crate.
- Portable & Durable Pet Kennel: The EHEYCIGA soft dog crate Lightweight steel frame with rugged durability. Features auto-lock water bottle holder, storage pouch and safety reflectors. Perfect for home use and travel adventures.
- Multi-Functional Foldable Dog Crate: Our dog kennel offers a portable pet housing solution with 4 adjustable sizes to accommodate various breeds. Features tool-free assembly for instant setup and flattened storage capability. This space-saving pet cage delivers both comfort and travel convenience.
- Quick Setup & Collapse: Assemble this portable dog crate in just 30 seconds—no tools needed. Easily fold it for storage in your car or at home, making it perfect for travel or indoor use, and always ready for your dog's comfort
- Well-Ventilated & Comfortable: With 4 mesh doors, this travel dog crate lets your pet enjoy fresh air. The thick fleece pad provides a comfy spot to rest, at home or on the go
- Built Tough, Travels Safe: Made of a robust steel frame and scratch- and tear-resistant Oxford fabric, the soft dog crate is designed for durability. Safety zippers ensure pets can't open it from the inside, and reflective strips add extra safety
- Easy Cleaning, Handy Storage: Water-resistant Oxford fabric wipes clean easily. The fleece pad is removable for cleaning (inner padding not washable). A pocket keeps essentials within reach
- Pick the Right Size: This 36" x 25" x 25" dog kennel fits large dogs up to 78 lb. Measure your pet in advance for the ideal size
- Soft-sided dog crate for keeping a furry 4-legged friend safe and comfortable when traveling
- Includes an XL dog crate made of tan polyester fabric and a lightweight yet sturdy steel frame
- Sets up in seconds with no tools needed; folds flat for easy portability and compact storage
- 2 doors (top and front) for easy loading and unloading
- Secure zipper closures, plus fastening straps to keep unzipped rolled-up doors in place and out of the way
- 【Portable Collapsible Dog Crate】This 36x25x25in soft dog crate is not only suitable for home use, but can also be easily folded into the trunk of the car for camping. Whether at home, in the car or outdoors, it can provide a safe and comfortable resting space for your beloved pet
- 【Comfortable and Breathable】Canvas dog crate is equipped with four mesh windows for comfortable ventilation and easy to check on your pet's condition. In addition, the zipper design allows you to roll up the mesh wall, making it easy for your dog to get in and out freely
- 【Quick Assembly, Convenient Storage】No tools required, follow the instructions to complete the assembly in a few minutes, time-saving and convenient. Pockets on the side of the crate can store dog food, toys and other items, convenient for you to access at any time, making your pet's life more comfortable
- 【High Quality and Easy to Clean】This travel dog kennel is made of high-strength iron pipe and high-quality Oxford cloth, which is both lightweight and sturdy. The Oxford fabric is durable, tear-resistant and easy to clean, ensuring the long-term durability of the crate
- 【Travel Kennel Set Includes Accessories】Soft removable plush pads to create a comfortable resting space for your favorite pets; Folding travel bowls for easy feeding and watering anytime on the go; and creative bone cards that can be designed on your own to personalize your pet's den
Choosing the Best Soft Sided Dog Crate: Your Complete Buying Guide
Soft sided dog crates offer a cozy, portable, and lightweight home for your furry friend. They are great for travel, training, or just giving your dog a safe den. Finding the right one takes a little know-how. This guide helps you pick the perfect fit.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, focus on these important features. These make the crate safe and easy to use.
- **Ventilation and Mesh:** Good airflow keeps your dog cool and comfortable. Look for strong mesh panels on at least three sides. This lets your dog see out and you see in.
- **Portability and Folding:** Most soft crates fold flat easily. Check how many steps it takes to collapse the crate. Some come with a carrying bag, which is a big plus for travel.
- **Door Options:** Many crates offer multiple entry points—a door on the front and often one on the side or top. Top-loading doors are excellent for getting nervous pets in or out easily.
- **Removable Fleece Bed:** A comfortable, washable bed inside improves the user experience greatly. Make sure the mat is thick enough for support and easy to remove for cleaning.
Important Materials: What Makes a Good Crate?
The materials directly affect how long the crate lasts and how safe it is for your pet.
Frame Structure
Most soft crates use a lightweight metal frame, usually aluminum or steel tubing. This tubing provides the shape. Stronger, thicker tubing means the crate holds its shape better, even if your dog leans against the sides. Avoid very flimsy frames.
Fabric Quality
The fabric is usually heavy-duty polyester or nylon. Look for denier ratings (like 600D or higher). Higher denier means thicker, tougher fabric. This resists chewing and tearing. Water-resistant coatings help if accidents happen or you use the crate outdoors.
Zippers
Zippers are a common failure point. Heavy-duty, self-locking zippers are best. Some high-quality crates include a zipper cover or “garage” to stop your dog from grabbing the pull tab and opening the door.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality isn’t just about the price tag. Certain design choices make a big difference in daily use.
Quality Enhancers
- **Reinforced Seams:** Double-stitched or bound seams prevent tearing where the mesh meets the fabric panels.
- **Secure Fasteners:** Clips or buckles that hold the folded frame together securely improve stability when the crate is set up.
- **Non-Slip Bottom:** A rubberized or textured bottom prevents the crate from sliding around on hardwood or tile floors.
Quality Reducers
Thin, cheap nylon fabric wears out fast. If the frame feels wobbly when you set it up, it will likely collapse or sag over time. Mesh that tears easily is dangerous because your dog could escape or get stuck.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use the crate should guide your final decision.
Travel and Car Use
For road trips, prioritize a crate that fits snugly in your trunk and has secure tie-down points. The lighter the crate, the easier it is to load and unload repeatedly.
Home Use and Training
If the crate stays mostly in one place, you can choose a slightly heavier model with more features, like an attached storage pocket. For crate training puppies, easy-to-clean materials are essential. A crate that is easy to put together and take apart saves frustration for the owner.
Remember to measure your dog! They should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside. A crate that is too small causes stress; one that is too big can lead to house-training issues.
10 Frequently Asked Questions About Soft Sided Dog Crates
Q: Are soft sided crates safe for dogs who chew?
A: Generally, no. Soft crates are best for calm dogs or puppies supervised during training. Chewing dogs can easily damage the mesh or fabric.
Q: How do I clean a soft sided crate?
A: Most manufacturers suggest spot cleaning with mild soap and water. Remove the inner mat for machine washing if it is removable. Always air dry completely.
Q: What size should I buy?
A: Measure your dog from nose to tail base and from paw pad to the top of the head when standing. The crate should be slightly larger than these measurements so your dog can move freely.
Q: Can I use these crates outdoors?
A: Yes, for short periods, especially if the fabric is water-resistant. However, never leave them out in bad weather or intense sun for long times. They are not as secure as hard plastic crates against strong winds or larger animals.
Q: Do they come with a floor liner?
A: Most models include a removable, washable pad or fleece mat for comfort.
Q: Are they easy to assemble?
A: Yes. Most use a simple pop-up frame that connects internally. Assembly usually takes less than five minutes without tools.
Q: Are soft crates airline approved?
A: Usually, no. Airlines typically require hard-sided crates for air travel. Check your specific airline’s current pet policy before booking.
Q: How important is ventilation?
A: Ventilation is very important. Look for crates with mesh on at least three sides to prevent overheating and keep your dog calm.
Q: What is the difference between nylon and polyester fabric?
A: Both are strong, but high-denier polyester often resists UV rays (sunlight) better over time than nylon.
Q: How durable are the zippers?
A: Durability varies. Look for large, sturdy zippers that lock or have protective flaps to prevent your dog from manipulating them.