Finding the best dog kennel for car travel near you ensures your pet stays safe and comfortable. Choosing the right kennel makes trips easier and less stressful for both you and your dog.
Traveling with your dog requires a secure and cozy space in the car. A good dog kennel protects your pet during sudden stops and keeps them calm. Many options fit different dog sizes and car types. Soft-sided kennels offer lightweight and breathable comfort, while hard plastic crates provide sturdy protection.
Features like mesh windows, washable pads, and multiple entrances improve usability. Some kennels fold for easy storage when not in use. Whether for short drives or long road trips, picking a kennel that suits your dog’s size and travel needs is important. This guide covers top-rated kennels available near you to help your furry friend travel safely and happily.
K&h Pet Products Enclosed Dog Car Seat
The K&H Pet Products Enclosed Dog Car Seat is ideal for pet owners who frequently travel with their small to medium-sized dogs or cats and prioritize safety and comfort during car rides. This product is perfect for those seeking a reliable, soft-sided carrier that offers secure containment while allowing their pets to enjoy the journey through multiple mesh windows. If you want to keep your pet safe, comfortable, and secure during travel, this car seat is an excellent choice.
Pros:
- Soft-sided, enclosed design provides security and comfort for pets.
- Multiple entrances for easy access and convenience.
- Mesh windows ensure proper ventilation and visibility for pets.
- Washable pad enhances hygiene and easy maintenance.
- Lightweight and portable, weighing only 5.7 pounds.
Cons:
- Medium size may not accommodate larger dog breeds.
- Soft-sided structure may not offer as much protection as hard-sided carriers in case of impact.
The K&H Pet Products Enclosed Dog Car Seat features a spacious interior measuring 24 x 19 x 17 inches, making it suitable for most small to medium pets. Its soft-sided, covered design creates a cozy and secure environment that reduces anxiety and movement during car trips. The inclusion of multiple entrances allows for easy placement and removal of pets, while the mesh windows provide excellent airflow and let your pet enjoy the outside view, which can help reduce stress during travel.
Additionally, this car seat comes with a washable pad that ensures your pet’s area stays clean and fresh, enhancing the overall travel experience. Its lightweight construction makes it easy to carry and install in most vehicles, and the neutral gray/black color complements any car interior. Overall, this travel safety carrier balances comfort, convenience, and security, making it a practical solution for pet owners who want to ensure safe and enjoyable journeys with their furry companions.
Amazon Basics 2-door Portable Soft-sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel
The Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel in Medium size is ideal for pet owners who need a convenient and comfortable travel solution for their dogs. This product is perfect for those who frequently travel by car, plane, or simply need a portable crate for visits to the vet or outdoor adventures. If you have a medium-sized dog and value portability combined with ease of use, this crate is an excellent choice.
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable at just 6.53 pounds, making transportation effortless
- Two-door design allows easy access from multiple angles
- Soft-sided construction ensures comfort and flexibility during travel
- Foldable design for easy storage when not in use
- Durable materials that provide ventilation and visibility for your pet
Cons:
- May not be suitable for very large or highly active dogs
- Soft sides offer less protection compared to hard crates
- Assembly might require some time initially
The Amazon Basics Medium Soft Dog Travel Crate features a dual-door design that enhances convenience by allowing pets to enter and exit from either the front or side. This flexibility is particularly beneficial in tight spaces or crowded areas. The crate’s soft-sided fabric provides a cozy environment for your dog while ensuring the crate remains lightweight and easy to carry. Additionally, the mesh panels offer excellent ventilation, keeping your pet cool and comfortable throughout the journey.
Designed with portability in mind, the crate folds down flat for compact storage, making it ideal for travel enthusiasts and busy pet owners alike. Its dimensions of approximately 30″ x 21″ x 21″ make it suitable for medium-sized dogs, providing ample space without being bulky. Overall, the crate balances convenience, comfort, and practicality, making it a reliable choice for safe and stress-free pet travel.
Abbylike Dog Crate For Car
The Abbylike Dog Crate for Car is ideal for pet owners who frequently travel with their medium to large dogs and seek a safe, comfortable, and portable containment solution. If you want to ensure your furry friend’s security during long car trips while maintaining convenience and ease of use, this soft cage is the perfect choice for you.
Pros:
- Portable and lightweight design, weighing only 2.91 pounds
- Durable mesh tube construction for ventilation and visibility
- Includes a seat belt storage bag for added safety
- Spacious dimensions (47″ x 24″) accommodate large and medium dogs comfortably
- Easy to set up and fold, making it convenient for travel
Cons:
- May not be suitable for very small or extremely large breeds
- Soft-sided construction might not provide as much protection as hard crates in case of accidents
- Black color may show pet hair more visibly
This pet travel tube car crate by Abbylike offers a unique combination of portability and spaciousness, designed specifically for long travel trips. Its lightweight black mesh design ensures ample airflow and allows your dog to stay calm by seeing their surroundings. The dimensions of 47″ x 24″ provide enough room for medium to large dogs to move comfortably without feeling cramped, which is essential for keeping your pet relaxed during extended drives.
Additionally, the crate comes with a built-in seat belt storage bag, enhancing the safety of your pet by securely attaching the crate to your vehicle. The soft cage material is easy to clean and foldable, making it a practical option for pet owners who want a hassle-free containment solution that does not compromise on comfort or security. This crate is an excellent investment for anyone who prioritizes their pet’s safety and comfort during travel.
Amazon Basics 4-doors Portable Soft-sided Folding Travel Crate Kennel
The Amazon Basics 4-Doors Portable Soft-Sided Folding Travel Crate Kennel is ideal for pet owners who need a convenient, lightweight, and durable solution for transporting their cats, dogs, and other small animals. Whether you’re traveling, visiting the vet, or simply need a safe space for your pet at home, this crate is designed to offer comfort and ease of use. It’s perfect for those who prioritize portability and versatility without compromising on safety.
Pros:
- Portable and lightweight design makes it easy to carry and store.
- Four doors provide easy access from multiple sides.
- Made from soft-sided materials that ensure comfort and ventilation.
- Folds flat for convenient storage when not in use.
- Durable construction supports secure containment of pets.
- Comes in a neutral grey color that fits any decor.
Cons:
- May not be suitable for larger pets due to its small size (26″ x 18″ x 18″).
- Soft-sided design may not be as sturdy as hard crates for highly active pets.
- Weight of 7.67 pounds might be slightly heavy for some users during extended carrying.
This travel crate from Amazon Basics features a compact yet spacious interior designed to comfortably accommodate small animals. The four-door configuration allows for versatile access, making it easier to place your pet inside or let them out without hassle. Its soft-sided construction offers excellent ventilation and a cozy environment, preventing your pet from feeling confined or stressed during travel.
The crate’s foldable design enhances convenience, allowing pet owners to easily collapse and store it when not in use. Its sturdy materials ensure reliable durability while maintaining a lightweight profile. The neutral grey color and practical dimensions make it a great choice for various settings, whether you’re on the go or at home. Overall, this product balances comfort, portability, and durability for small pet owners seeking a reliable travel solution.
Love’s Cabin Portable Large Dog Bed
The Love’s cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed is perfect for pet owners who need a versatile and comfortable resting space for their furry friends. Ideal for those who travel frequently, enjoy outdoor activities, or want a cozy indoor crate, this product suits dogs and cats requiring a spacious yet portable bed solution. If you value convenience, durability, and pet comfort, this portable dog kennel is an excellent choice.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to carry, weighing only 2.03 pounds
- Spacious dimensions with 36.6 inches length and 21.3 inches height and width
- Stylish light grey color fits well with any home decor
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use, making it versatile
- Pop-up design allows for quick setup and takedown
- Multi-functional as a dog bed, crate, car seat kennel, and cat bed
Cons:
- May not be ideal for very large dog breeds
- Limited color options available
- Lightweight design might be less durable for aggressive chewers
The Love’s cabin Portable Large Dog Bed features a thoughtfully designed pop-up mechanism that ensures hassle-free assembly and storage. Its lightweight construction makes it perfect for pet owners on the go, whether traveling by car or enjoying outdoor adventures. The generous size of 36.6 inches in length provides ample space for your pet to stretch out and relax comfortably. The light grey color not only looks modern but also blends seamlessly into various home environments.
This portable kennel is made with durable materials suited for both indoor and outdoor use, offering flexibility for pet owners who want a reliable resting spot anywhere. The multi-use design allows it to serve as a crate, dog bed, or even a car seat kennel, making it a practical investment. Overall, the Love’s cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed combines convenience, comfort, and style, fulfilling the needs of pets and their owners alike.
Nottia Dog Crate
The Nottia Dog Crate is ideal for pet owners who need a reliable, portable, and comfortable kennel for their large dogs. Whether you are a frequent traveler, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a convenient indoor pet enclosure, this collapsible soft travel crate offers a perfect blend of durability and comfort. It is especially suited for those who want a lightweight yet sturdy solution that can easily be transported or stored without hassle.
Pros:
- Made with chew-proof mesh window for enhanced durability and ventilation
- Collapsible design allows for easy portability and storage
- Spacious dimensions (36″ L x 25″ W x 25″ H) accommodate large dogs comfortably
- Dark gray color hides dirt and blends well with indoor and outdoor settings
- Includes a 3-year warranty ensuring long-term reliability
- Lightweight at just under 10 pounds for effortless transport
Cons:
- May not be suitable for extremely aggressive chewers despite chew-proof mesh
- Limited color options available
The Nottia Dog Crate features a collapsible soft design that makes it incredibly easy to set up and fold down, perfect for pet owners who are on the go. Its chew-proof mesh window ensures your dog gets ample airflow and visibility, which helps reduce anxiety during travel or confinement. The crate’s sturdy yet lightweight construction, coupled with its spacious interior, allows large dogs to rest comfortably without feeling cramped, making it a practical choice for extended indoor or outdoor use.
Additionally, the crate’s portable nature and compact foldable size make it ideal for car rides, camping trips, or visits to the vet. The dark gray fabric is not only stylish but also functional in hiding dirt and stains, maintaining a neat appearance over time. Backed by a 3-year warranty, the Nottia Dog Crate offers peace of mind and durability, ensuring that your investment in your pet’s comfort and safety is well protected.
Petsafe Happy Ride Collapsible Travel Crate
The PetSafe Happy Ride Collapsible Travel Crate is ideal for pet owners who frequently travel with their dogs and want a safe, comfortable, and convenient containment solution. Whether you are going on a long road trip or a quick visit to the vet, this crate is perfect for those who prioritize their pet’s safety and comfort while on the move. It is especially suited for small to medium-sized dogs, providing a secure space that can be easily stored when not in use.
Pros:
- Heavy duty aluminum frame ensures durability and long-lasting use.
- Mesh windows provide excellent ventilation and visibility for pets.
- Convenient storage pockets allow for easy access to pet essentials during travel.
- Secure seat belt access enhances safety by allowing the crate to be firmly anchored inside the vehicle.
- Collapsible design makes it easy to fold and store when not in use.
- Lightweight at just over 12.5 pounds, making it easy to carry.
Cons:
- Dimensions may not accommodate larger dog breeds comfortably.
- Assembly may require some time and effort initially.
- The color options are limited to Gray/Blue, which might not suit all preferences.
The PetSafe Happy Ride Collapsible Travel Crate features a sturdy yet lightweight aluminum frame, providing a robust structure that withstands the rigors of travel. Its mesh windows offer ample airflow, ensuring your pet stays cool and comfortable during trips, while also allowing them to see their surroundings, reducing anxiety. The crate’s collapsible design makes it highly portable and easy to store, an excellent benefit for pet owners with limited space.
Additionally, the crate includes convenient storage pockets that help keep leashes, treats, and other necessities within reach, enhancing travel convenience. The secure seat belt access feature allows you to safely anchor the crate in your vehicle, minimizing movement and increasing safety for your pet during rides. With dimensions suitable for small to medium dogs, and weighing just about 12.5 pounds, this crate balances portability and functionality effectively for pet travelers.
Zomisia 36 Inch Collapsible Dog Crate For Large Dogs
The ZOMISIA 36 Inch Collapsible Dog Crate is ideal for large dog owners who need a versatile and portable solution for their pet’s comfort and safety. Whether you are a frequent traveler, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a convenient indoor kennel, this soft sided dog crate caters to those who value both functionality and ease of use. It is perfect for pet parents seeking a lightweight yet spacious crate that can be easily folded and transported.
Pros:
- Lightweight and foldable design for easy portability and storage
- breathable mesh windows to ensure proper ventilation and visibility
- 36 inches length, 25 inches width, and 25 inches height suitable for large dogs
- Soft sided construction provides comfort while maintaining durability
- indoor and outdoor use
- grey color that blends well with various surroundings
Cons:
- May not be as sturdy as metal crates for very strong or aggressive dogs
The ZOMISIA 36 Inch Collapsible Dog Crate features a thoughtfully designed soft-sided frame with breathable mesh windows on all sides, allowing your pet to enjoy fresh air and a clear view of their surroundings. This makes it especially comfortable for long trips or extended indoor use. The collapsible nature of the crate means it can be folded down quickly, making transportation and storage hassle-free without compromising on space when assembled.
In addition to its portability, the crate’s generous dimensions provide ample room for large dogs to rest comfortably. The soft sides add a layer of coziness while being sturdy enough to keep your pet secure. This crate is perfect for pet owners who want a balance between convenience and comfort, especially those who need an adaptable kennel for various environments such as travel, camping, or everyday home use.
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel
The Petmate Vari Dog Kennel is ideal for pet owners seeking a reliable and portable dog carrier that accommodates medium-sized dogs. Whether you are a frequent traveler, a pet parent attending vet visits, or simply need a durable crate for home use, this airline-friendly carrier offers a perfect blend of convenience and security. Its design suits those who prioritize both functionality and comfort for their furry companions.
Pros:
- Constructed with durable plastic for long-lasting use
- Airline-friendly dimensions, making it suitable for travel
- Spacious interior with 32 inches length for medium dogs
- Secure ventilation with multiple mesh panels for airflow
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Attractive taupe and black color scheme
- Lightweight design at approximately 12.5 pounds for portability
Cons:
- May be slightly heavy compared to soft-sided carriers
- Assembly required upon first use
- Limited to medium-sized dogs due to fixed dimensions
The Petmate Vari Dog Kennel features a sturdy and durable plastic construction that ensures your pet’s safety during transport. Its airline-approved size and thoughtful design make it an excellent choice for air travel, providing peace of mind for pet owners. The kennel’s ventilation panels allow for continuous airflow, keeping your dog comfortable and relaxed throughout the journey. Additionally, the easy-to-clean surface simplifies maintenance, making it practical for both home and travel use.
Designed by Doskocil, this carrier balances robustness with portability. The taupe and black color combination not only looks modern but also hides dirt and scratches effectively. At a manageable weight of around 12.5 pounds, it is easy to carry while still providing ample space for medium-sized dogs to sit or lie down comfortably. This kennel is a dependable and versatile solution for pet owners who want a trusted carrier for various situations.
Donoro Dog Kennels And Crates For Medium Dogs
The DONORO Dog Kennels and Crates for Medium Dogs is ideal for pet owners who need a versatile, portable, and secure space for their medium-sized dogs. Whether you are a frequent traveler, someone who wants a reliable indoor pet cage, or need a collapsible crate that combines convenience with durability, this product is designed to meet those needs effectively.
Pros:
- Portable pop-up design makes setup and takedown quick and easy.
- Sturdy wire frame ensures durability and prevents escape.
- Soft sided for comfortable use indoors or during travel.
- Lightweight at just 3.25 pounds, perfect for carrying around.
- Collapsible and space-saving when not in use.
Cons:
- May not be suitable for very large or aggressive dogs.
- Brown color might show dirt more easily compared to darker options.
- Limited ventilation compared to fully wire crates.
The DONORO Dog Kennel features a compact size of 28.0″ L x 18.0″ W x 22.0″ H, making it perfect for medium dogs while still being easy to transport. The sturdy wire frame provides a secure environment that helps prevent escapes, giving pet owners peace of mind. The soft-sided construction enhances comfort for pets and makes the kennel suitable for indoor use or travel, adapting well to various environments.
Its lightweight and collapsible design offers significant convenience for pet owners who are always on the move. The kennel can be quickly popped up or folded down, which is ideal for car trips, outdoor activities, or simply moving it around the house. Additionally, the brown color and quality manufacturing by DONORO ensure a durable and stylish pet crate that balances functionality with aesthetic appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Size Dog Kennel Fits Best In A Car?
Choose a kennel size based on your dog’s weight and car space. Medium to large sizes work well for most cars. Measure your car’s back seat or cargo area before buying to ensure a snug fit and safe travel.
Are Soft-sided Kennels Safe For Car Travel?
Yes, soft-sided kennels with sturdy frames and secure mesh windows are safe. They provide comfort and ventilation while keeping your pet secure during trips. Look for models with seat belt access for added safety.
How To Clean A Dog Car Kennel Easily?
Most kennels come with removable, washable pads. Use mild detergent and warm water to clean. Regular cleaning prevents odors and keeps your pet healthy. Soft materials dry quickly and maintain kennel shape.
Can I Use A Dog Kennel For Air Travel Too?
Some kennels like Petmate Vari are airline-approved and durable. Check airline size and material requirements before purchase. Choose kennels with secure locks and ventilation for safe air travel.
What Features Matter In A Car Dog Kennel?
Look for ventilation mesh, multiple entrances, washable pads, and secure seat belt compatibility. Durable, lightweight materials make travel easier. Collapsible designs offer portability and convenient storage when not in use.
How To Keep My Dog Comfortable In A Travel Kennel?
Use soft bedding and ensure proper ventilation. Choose kennels with mesh windows for airflow. Bring familiar toys and take breaks during long trips to reduce stress and keep your dog calm.
Conclusion
Choosing the best dog kennel for car travel ensures your pet stays safe and comfortable. Each option offers unique features like soft sides, mesh windows, or sturdy frames. Consider your dog’s size and travel habits when picking a kennel. Portability and ease of cleaning also matter for stress-free trips.
Whether you want a collapsible crate or a cozy enclosed seat, there is a suitable kennel available. Investing in the right kennel helps prevent distractions while driving. It keeps your dog secure during long journeys or quick errands. A good kennel also protects your car’s interior from damage.
Think about durability and ventilation to keep your pet happy. With proper planning, car travel becomes an enjoyable experience for both you and your dog. Safe and comfortable travel starts with the right kennel choice. Your furry friend will thank you with calm and happy rides every time.
