Did you know that a car accident is the most dangerous thing your dog will ever experience? Yikes! Keeping your furry friend safe while traveling is super important. That’s where a dog crate for the car comes in handy. But, picking the right one can feel like navigating a maze. There are so many sizes, materials, and features to choose from. It’s easy to get overwhelmed!
Choosing the wrong crate can lead to big problems. Your dog might be uncomfortable, and even worse, unsafe in a crash. It can also make car rides stressful for both you and your pup. This blog post helps you avoid those headaches. We’ll break down everything you need to know to find the perfect crate for your car and your dog’s needs. We’ll talk about size, safety, and comfort.
By the end of this post, you’ll be a crate expert! You’ll know what to look for, what to avoid, and how to make car travel safe and enjoyable for your best friend. We’ll share tips and tricks to make your dog’s car rides happy ones. Ready to get started and find the perfect dog crate for your car? Let’s dive in!
Our Top 5 Dog Crate For Car Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Dog Crate For Car Detailed Reviews
1. PetSafe Portable Pet Crate for Car
Rating: 8.6/10
The PetSafe Portable Pet Crate for Car is a great way to travel with your dog! This crate is easy to use and store. It’s designed for safety and comfort during car rides. It’s perfect for pet owners who travel often. The crate is made with a strong aluminum frame and folds down quickly. It secures easily in your car, and it’s easy to clean.
What We Like:
- Portable Design: The crate folds up easily for storage. It saves space when you’re not using it.
- Secure Travel: The headrest strap and seatbelt keep the crate in place. Your dog will be safe in the car.
- Comfortable: Your dog can see and breathe easily. The mesh design offers good ventilation.
- Practicality: The leather handle makes it easy to carry. It’s simple to move the crate.
- Easy Maintenance: The crate is waterproof and machine washable. It’s easy to clean up after your pet.
- Easy Pet Access: Two doors make it easy to get your dog in and out. The crate fits on one seat.
- Quality Promise: PetSafe is a trusted brand. They make great products for pets.
What Could Be Improved:
- Might not fit compact vehicles: Make sure it fits your car.
This PetSafe crate is a smart choice for pet owners. It combines safety, comfort, and convenience for your dog. You and your pet will love it!
2. Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel
Rating: 9.2/10
The Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Dog Travel Crate is a great way to keep your dog safe and comfy while traveling. This soft-sided crate is easy to set up and take down. It’s made of tan polyester fabric with a strong, light frame. The crate has two doors, one on the top and one in the front. It also has mesh windows for good air flow. This crate is perfect for medium-sized dogs like Blue Heelers or Golden Retrievers, up to 50 pounds. It folds flat for easy storage when you’re not using it.
What We Like:
- Easy to set up and fold down.
- Lightweight and easy to carry.
- Has two doors for easy access.
- Provides good ventilation with mesh windows.
- Secure zipper closures to keep your dog safe.
- Straps hold the doors open.
What Could Be Improved:
- The material might not be the best for dogs that like to chew.
- It might not be suitable for very large dogs.
In general, this Amazon Basics crate is a good choice for travel. It is a convenient and practical option for dog owners on the go.
3. Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Medium Dogs
Rating: 9.4/10
The Petmate Vari Dog Kennel is a safe and reliable way to transport your medium-sized dog. This sturdy plastic crate is made in the USA and designed for both home and travel. It’s airline-friendly and offers a comfortable space for your furry friend. The kennel is easy to clean and helps keep your pet dry. It’s a great solution for dogs weighing 20-30 lbs, providing security and peace of mind.
What We Like:
- SECURE AND SAFE: The sturdy wire door and tamper-proof holes for zip ties keep your dog safe.
- AIRLINE-FRIENDLY: This carrier meets most airline standards. It is ready for air travel.
- EASY CLEANING: The plastic shell is easy to wipe down. The stay-dry moat helps keep the inside clean.
- Durable Plastic: The kennel is made of durable plastic, which is built to last.
- Made in USA: The kennel is made in the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- Size limitations: This crate is only suitable for medium-sized dogs (20-30 lbs).
The Petmate Vari Dog Kennel is a great option for pet owners who need a reliable and safe travel crate. It is a good choice for dogs and their owners.
4. K&H Pet Products Enclosed Dog Car Seat
Rating: 9.2/10
Keep your furry friend safe and sound on every car ride with the K&H Pet Products Enclosed Dog Car Seat! This travel carrier is designed to be a comfortable and secure space for your dog. It features a soft, washable pad, multiple entrances, and mesh windows. This allows your pet to see out and keeps them cool. It’s perfect for small dogs up to 20 pounds.
What We Like:
- The carrier has safety straps that attach to your car’s headrest and seatbelts. This keeps your dog secure.
- It has multiple doors for easy access to your pet.
- The carrier installs and uninstalls quickly. You can also fold it flat for storage.
- The soft pad is washable. This makes cleaning easy.
- K&H Pet Products is a trusted brand with over 20 years of experience.
What Could Be Improved:
- The medium size is only suitable for dogs up to 20 pounds.
- The mesh windows, while good for visibility, may not be ideal for dogs that tend to scratch.
This K&H Pet Products car seat is a great way to travel safely with your dog. It provides a comfortable and secure space for your pet.
5. Love’s cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed – Pop Up Dog Kennel
Rating: 9.4/10
The Love’s Cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed is a versatile and convenient solution for pet owners on the go. This pop-up kennel is designed for indoor and outdoor use. It can also work as a car seat kennel. The bed is suitable for cats and small dogs up to 65 lbs. It features mesh ventilation for airflow and easy-to-use zippers. The kennel folds down quickly for easy storage and travel. This portable bed is a safe and cozy space for your furry friend.
What We Like:
- Easy to set up and collapse.
- Lightweight and portable for travel.
- Mesh panels provide good ventilation.
- Seatbelt straps keep it secure in the car.
- Offers a safe space for pets in various environments.
- Easy to clean by hand.
- Comes with a lifetime guarantee.
What Could Be Improved:
- May not be suitable for very active or destructive pets.
- The material is not as sturdy as a metal kennel.
In conclusion, the Love’s Cabin portable dog bed is a great option for pet owners. It is especially useful for travel and provides a comfortable and safe space for your pet. This kennel is a good buy for pet owners.
Dog Crate for Car: Your Pup’s Safe Ride Guide
Taking your dog in the car should be fun! But, it’s important to keep them safe. A dog crate for the car is a great way to do this. This guide will help you pick the best one for your furry friend.
Key Features to Look For
You need a crate that works well. Here are some important things to consider:
- Size: Make sure the crate is the right size. Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Measure your dog! Measure from nose to tail, and from the top of their head to the ground.
- Durability: Crates get a lot of use. Choose one made from strong materials. Look for crates that can handle bumps and scratches.
- Ventilation: Good airflow is key. Your dog needs fresh air, especially in a car. Look for crates with plenty of vents.
- Security: The crate should have a secure door. Make sure the latches are easy for you to open, but hard for your dog to break.
- Ease of Cleaning: Accidents happen! Pick a crate that is easy to clean. Removable trays are a big help.
- Portability: Consider how easy the crate is to move. Some crates fold up for storage. Handles can also make carrying easier.
Important Materials
The materials used in a dog crate matter. They affect how safe and durable it is.
- Plastic: Plastic crates are popular. They are usually lightweight and easy to clean. They offer good protection.
- Metal: Metal crates are strong. They often have good ventilation. These can be a good choice for dogs that like to chew.
- Fabric/Soft-Sided: Fabric crates are lighter and can fold up. They are best for smaller dogs or dogs that are already well-behaved.
- Mesh: Mesh sides can provide excellent ventilation. Make sure the mesh is strong and won’t rip easily.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality makes a big difference. Look for these things:
- Strong Construction: The crate should be well-built. Look for sturdy joints and secure doors.
- Quality Materials: The materials should be durable and safe. Avoid crates with sharp edges or toxic materials.
- Good Design: A well-designed crate is easy to use. It should have features that make it practical, like handles and easy-to-clean surfaces.
- Price: Cheaper crates might be made with lower quality. Expensive crates are not always better. Read reviews to help you decide.
- Reviews: Read what other pet owners say. They can tell you about the crate’s pros and cons.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will use the crate.
- Everyday Use: A car crate can be great for daily trips to the park, vet visits, or running errands.
- Travel: If you travel a lot, a crate is a must-have. It keeps your dog safe during long car rides.
- Training: You can use a crate for training. It provides a safe space for your dog.
- Size of Dog: A crate helps keep your dog safe. The size of your dog is important. Smaller dogs need smaller crates. Bigger dogs need bigger crates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What size crate does my dog need?
A: Measure your dog! The crate should be big enough for them to stand, turn around, and lie down. Add a few inches to their measurements for comfort.
Q: What is the best material for a car crate?
A: The best material depends on your dog. Plastic and metal crates are good choices. Fabric crates are good for smaller dogs.
Q: How do I clean a dog crate?
A: Most crates can be cleaned with soap and water. Remove any removable trays for easy cleaning.
Q: Is a crate safe for my dog in a car accident?
A: A crate can help protect your dog. However, no crate is 100% safe. Always use a seatbelt or secure the crate in the car.
Q: Can I leave my dog in the crate while I run errands?
A: Never leave your dog in a hot car. If the weather is okay, you can leave your dog in the crate for short periods.
Q: How do I get my dog used to the crate?
A: Introduce the crate slowly. Make it a positive experience. Give your dog treats and praise when they go inside.
Q: How do I secure the crate in my car?
A: Place the crate on the floor or in the cargo area. Use straps or tie-downs to secure it. This prevents it from moving.
Q: What if my dog doesn’t like the crate?
A: Be patient! Try making the crate more appealing. Add a comfortable bed and favorite toys.
Q: Are soft-sided crates safe for car travel?
A: Soft-sided crates can be safe for small, well-behaved dogs. They offer less protection than hard-sided crates.
Q: Where can I buy a dog crate for my car?
A: You can find dog crates at pet stores, online retailers, and some general stores.
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 Sean Kernan, the voice behind esteeringwheel.com.. With a passion for all things automotive, I created this platform to share my journey, insights, and expertise about cars. From the latest tech to timeless driving tips, my goal is to help fellow enthusiasts and everyday drivers navigate the fascinating world of automobiles. Welcome to my corner of the road—let’s steer toward knowledge and discovery together!