Does the thought of a long car ride with your furry friend fill you with a mix of excitement and worry? You want your dog to be safe and comfortable, but the reality can be messy and stressful. Many pet owners struggle to find a car kennel that truly fits their vehicle and their dog’s needs. Should it be hard plastic, soft-sided fabric, or something else entirely? Finding the right balance between security, ventilation, and easy cleanup often feels like a puzzle.
Choosing the wrong travel crate can lead to a bumpy, unsafe ride for your beloved companion, and major headaches for you. But don’t fret! This comprehensive guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what makes a dog kennel perfect for car travel, covering everything from size requirements to essential safety features. Keep reading to discover the best options available so your next road trip becomes a smooth, happy adventure for everyone involved.
Top Dog Kennel For Car Travel 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)
- Medium 4-door folding pet travel kennel with soft sides for cats, dogs, rabbits, and other small animals
- Top door for sunlight and breathability, front and side doors with zipper lock clips for added security; Included straps to roll up and secure fabric doors when leaving the portable dog crate open
- Carrying handle and padded shoulder strap for easily transporting when pet kennel is folded; includes removable fleece pet bed pad
- Convenient pop-up pet crate design can be set up and folded down in seconds with no tools required
- Product Dimensions: 30 x 21 x 21 inches (LxWxH). Water-resistant base
- Hard sided pet carrier with 2 doors for front and top entry; suitable for cat or medium size dog weighing 12 - 20 pounds
- Durable plastic construction with steel wire doors; screws keep the top and bottom sections securely connected
- Spring load latches ensure easy one-handed door opening and closing; top door swings open to the left or right and includes a top carry handle
- Plenty of air ventilation on the sides, top, and back of the carrier
- Note: Be sure to measure the size of the pet when choosing carrier size
- 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.
- TRAVEL DOG CAR SEAT: The mesh windows on our dog carrier for car promote airflow and allows your furry friend to observe their surroundings. While installing, please fasten the safety belt and hang the adjustable strap around headrest, ensuring stability and safety.
- COMFORT FOR DOGS: Our dog car seat enable a roomy area for dogs. Dogs can stretch out their legs in this car seat. Suitable for dogs of all breeds, and allowing them to lay down comfortably during long car rides. Ideal for medium dog up to 25 lbs, or a multi-dog family.
- 5 EASY ACCESS DOORS: Made of high quality and is anti-scratch. Both sides feature a large zippered door and a smaller zippered door, making access a breeze. And the zippered front door is lockable, makes it easy to insert food and water without your pet escaping.
- EASY TO STORE & CLEAN: This pet car seat can fold flat for space-saving storage in your trunk when your pet is not along for the ride. The bottom of the travel pet carrier is lined with a removable, machine washable comfort pad. Please take out the board before wash.
- SUITS FOR BACK SEAT: Our travel pet seat measures 24.4 X 18.9 X 19.5 Inches and holds 25 Pounds. be sure to measure your pet to ensure they will fit inside the enclosure comfortably. Please measure their length from chest to rear, it should be shorter than 24 inches.
- SAFE DOG CAR SEAT: Dog and cat carrier provides a fully enclosed, comfortable, and secure location for your cat or dog to ride; it features mesh windows on each side and a full mesh front to allow your pet to view out
- SAFETY FIRST: Soft sided travel carrier buckles securely into your car using your car's seat belt, and for added stability the top strap adjusts tightly around headrest, ensuring the pet seat stays securely in place
- 5 EASY ACCESS DOORS: The left and right sides of the enclosure feature a large zippered door and a smaller zippered door, making access a breeze; and the zippered front door makes it easy to insert food and water without your pet escaping
- WASHABLE: The bottom of the Travel Safety Carrier is lined with a removable, machine washable comfort pad for easy clean up of those occasional pet travel accidents
- FOLDS FLAT FOR EASY STORAGE: Cat and dog carrier folds flat for space-saving storage in your trunk when your pet is not along for the ride
- Space-saving Design: Garnpet collapsible dog crate is designed to save space when not in use, making it an ideal choice for pet owners who are looking for a pet crate that can be easily stored away.
- Portable and lightweight: Our soft dog crate is made with lightweight materials and comes with convenient handles, making it easy to carry with you on the go. Whether you’re traveling with your pet or simply need to move the crate from one room to another, Garnpet collapsible soft dog cage is the perfect solution.
- Stable Structure: The foldable crate is made with a sturdy steel frame and high-quality waterproof Oxford fabric, ensuring that your pet is safe and secure while inside. The mesh windows allow for ventilation, while the zippered door makes it easy to access your pet.
- Easy to clean: The fabric on this soft side dog kennel is waterproof and easy to clean, which is ideal for pet owners who want a low-maintenance solution. Simply wipe it down with a damp cloth or sponge, and it will be as good as new.
- Versatile: This dog crate can be used for a variety of purposes, from crate training your puppy to providing a safe and cozy space for your pet to rest. It’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, and the collapsible design means you can take it with you wherever you go.
- Safe Travel Containment: The PetSafe Happy Ride Collapsible Travel Crate installs securely into the backseat with seatbelt straps and a headrest loop to keep your pet safely contained during car rides
- Foldable & Travel Friendly: This lightweight carrier with leather handles folds flat for space-saving easy storage, perfect for road trips and compact cars
- Comfort & Convenience: Soft-sided dog crate with mesh windows, a waterproof fleece pad, dual side doors, and convenient storage pockets offers cozy seating and easy access
- Global Mission, Local Care: With U.S. roots and worldwide reach, PetSafe delivers vet- and trainer-recommended solutions and exceptional customer support to create fields of joy for pets
- 25 Years of Trust: Since 1998, PetSafe has created safe, innovative, and trusted products that bring joy, enhance pet lives, and support the lifelong bond between pets and their families
Your Essential Guide to Choosing the Best Dog Kennel for Car Travel
Traveling with your dog should be safe and stress-free. A good car kennel keeps your furry friend secure. It also protects your car. This guide helps you pick the right one.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, look closely at these important parts. They make a big difference in safety and comfort.
Safety and Security
- Sturdy Latches: Make sure the door latches are strong. Your dog should not be able to push them open.
- Crumple Zones/Impact Rating: Some high-quality kennels are crash-tested. This means they offer better protection if you stop suddenly.
- Secure Tie-Down Points: The kennel must fasten firmly to your car seats or cargo area. This stops the kennel from sliding around.
Comfort and Ventilation
- Proper Sizing: Your dog must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. A kennel that is too small is unsafe and cruel.
- Airflow Vents: Look for many vents on the sides and top. Good airflow prevents your dog from overheating.
Important Materials for Durability and Safety
The material of the kennel affects how long it lasts and how safe it is.
Hard-Sided Kennels
These are usually made from heavy-duty plastic or metal. Plastic kennels are easy to clean. Metal kennels (like wire crates) offer the best visibility and airflow. They are very strong.
Soft-Sided Kennels
These use tough fabric, often polyester or nylon, supported by metal poles. They are lighter and easier to store when not in use. However, they are not as safe in a major crash as hard carriers.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality isn’t just about price. Look at how the kennel is put together.
Quality Boosters:
- Thick Walls: Thicker plastic walls resist cracking better than thin ones.
- Metal Hardware: Metal bolts and hinges last longer than plastic ones.
- Non-Slip Bottoms: Rubber feet on the bottom keep the carrier steady on slippery car seats.
Quality Reducers (Things to Avoid):
- Flimsy Doors: Doors that bend easily are a major security risk.
- Sharp Edges: Check inside for any rough plastic seams or exposed metal that could scratch your dog.
- Poor Seams (Soft Carriers): If the stitching looks weak on a soft carrier, it might tear quickly.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how often you travel and where you put the kennel.
Daily Commutes vs. Long Road Trips
For short trips to the vet, a smaller, easy-to-carry soft crate might work. For long road trips, a hard-sided kennel secured in the cargo area of an SUV is usually better. It gives your dog a stable den.
Installation Ease
Some crates use seatbelt loops to secure them. Others need extra straps. Test how easy it is to get the kennel in and out of your specific vehicle. If it is hard to install, you might skip using it sometimes, which is dangerous.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Dog Car Kennels
Q: What size kennel do I need for my dog?
A: Your dog must stand up without hitting its head, turn around easily, and lie down naturally. Measure your dog from nose to tail base, and from paw to the top of the head when sitting.
Q: Can I use a regular wire crate in the car?
A: Yes, but you must secure it very well. Wire crates need extra straps or barriers to stop them from tipping over during braking.
Q: Are soft-sided carriers safe for highway speeds?
A: They offer some containment, but hard-sided carriers offer much better protection in a sudden impact. Use soft carriers mostly for short, slow trips.
Q: How do I stop my dog from getting too hot?
A: Always ensure vents face away from direct, hot sun if possible. Never leave your dog alone in a parked car, even for a minute.
Q: Should the kennel face forward or backward?
A: Facing forward is common. However, placing the kennel facing the rear window (if it fits) can sometimes offer better protection during a frontal collision.
Q: What should I put inside the kennel?
A: Use a familiar, washable bed or blanket. Bring water and a favorite chew toy to keep them busy.
Q: How often should I clean the kennel?
A: Clean up accidents right away. Deep clean the kennel every few trips using pet-safe cleaners to keep things hygienic.
Q: Can I use a booster seat instead of a full kennel?
A: Booster seats are only for very small dogs (under 20 lbs). They usually require a harness that attaches to the seatbelt. They are not suitable for medium or large dogs.
Q: What if my dog panics in the crate?
A: Start training slowly at home before you travel. Put the empty crate in the car first. Then, put the dog in for very short drives, rewarding calm behavior.
Q: Are plastic kennels heavy to lift?
A: Yes, hard plastic kennels can be heavy, especially the larger sizes. This is why they usually stay in the cargo area once placed there.