Contents
Finding the best dog crate for car travel can be hard. The top pick is the MidWest 30-Inch Single Door iCrate. Its size of 30.5 x 19.25 x 21.5 inches is perfect for medium breeds like French Bulldogs. For a great budget option, the FDW 42 Inch Folding Metal Wire Pet Cage is sturdy but lacks some comfort features.
Many buyers face the choice between portability and comfort. The MidWest crate is easy to transport, while the FDW model focuses on sturdiness over lightweight design. The rest of this page will help you explore more options.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Dog Crates Reviewed in Detail
Below, we review a selection of dog crates designed for car travel. Each product has features that cater to safety and comfort.
1. Best Overall
Midwest 30-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Medium Breeds, 21-40 lbs
- IDEAL FOR 21-40 LB DOGS: Measures 30.5 x 19.25 x 21.5 inches – perfect for French Bulldogs, Welsh Terriers, Dachshunds & similar breeds. For dogs near 40 lbs, consider sizing up to our 36-inch model so they have plenty of room to get comfortable.
- WE DON’T CUT CORNERS, WE PERFECT THEM: Precision welding, rounded corner clips & slide-bolt latch with Paw Block mitigate snags, cuts & escapes. With rigorous safety testing, iCrate provides peace of mind knowing your dog is safe while you’re away.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Sturdy metal wire design with a protective black e-coat finish, the iCrate resists rust and everyday wear. Complete with leak-proof tray, rubber feet, carry handle, and tool-free assembly, it’s ready for years of use.
- SUPPORTS CRATE TRAINING: A divider panel lets the crate grow with your dog, from puppy kennel to full-size crate. Large openings and low thresholds ease the crate training process and help your dog feel more at home.
- LIFE GOES BETTER WITH PETS: A family-owned business based in Indiana, MidWest Homes for Pets brings over 100 years of pet product expertise and a commitment to quality, rigorous safety testing, and excellent US-based customer service.
The MidWest 30-Inch Single Door iCrate is our top pick for car travel. It measures 30.5 x 19.25 x 21.5 inches, making it perfect for medium breeds like French Bulldogs and Dachshunds. The precision welding ensures safety, and the rounded corners prevent injuries. Compared to other options, it is lightweight and easy to set up.
In comparison, the Amazon Basics Portable Metal Wire Dog Crate offers similar dimensions but lacks the same level of safety features. The FDW 42 Inch Folding Metal Wire Pet Cage is sturdy but heavier, making it less convenient for travel. The choice here comes down to the balance of portability versus sturdiness.
One limitation is that it may feel a bit cramped for dogs that are on the larger end of the size range. Overall, it is still a great option for most medium-sized dogs requiring a travel crate.
Pros
- Lightweight design for easy transport
- Precision welding for enhanced safety
- Rounded corners to prevent injuries
- Suitable for various medium breeds
Cons
- May be cramped for larger medium dogs
- Not as sturdy as larger models
- Limited ventilation compared to some plastic crates
Best for: Medium-sized dogs. Not ideal for: Larger medium breeds that need more space.
The MidWest 30-Inch iCrate is a reliable choice for comfortable car travel.
2. Best for Car Travel
Midwest 42-Inch Single Door iCrate, for Large Breeds, 71-90 lbs
- IDEAL FOR 71-90 LB DOGS: Measures 42.5 x 28.5 x 30.5 inches – perfect for Australian Shepherds, Boxers, Golden Retrievers & similar breeds. For dogs near 90 lbs, consider sizing up to our 48-inch model so they have plenty of room to get comfortable.
- WE DON’T CUT CORNERS, WE PERFECT THEM: Precision welding, rounded corner clips & slide-bolt latch with Paw Block mitigate snags, cuts & escapes. With rigorous safety testing, iCrate provides peace of mind knowing your dog is safe while you’re away.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Sturdy metal wire design with a protective black e-coat finish, the iCrate resists rust and everyday wear. Complete with leak-proof tray, rubber feet, carry handle, and tool-free assembly, it’s ready for years of use.
- SUPPORTS CRATE TRAINING: A divider panel lets the crate grow with your dog, from puppy kennel to full-size crate. Large openings and low thresholds ease the crate training process and help your dog feel more at home.
- LIFE GOES BETTER WITH PETS: A family-owned business based in Indiana, MidWest Homes for Pets brings over 100 years of pet product expertise and a commitment to quality, rigorous safety testing, and excellent US-based customer service.
The MidWest 42-Inch Single Door iCrate serves well for larger breeds. Its dimensions of 42.5 x 28.5 x 30.5 inches accommodate dogs up to 90 pounds, like Golden Retrievers and Australian Shepherds. The construction is durable, making it suitable for daily use and travel.
Compared to the other crates, it offers more space, which is essential for larger dogs. However, this model is less portable than the MidWest 30-Inch iCrate, which is lighter and easier to transport. While it excels in size, it sacrifices some portability, making it less convenient for frequent travelers.
A limitation is the weight-it is heavier than smaller crates, which might not suit all users. Still, it is a solid option for larger dogs needing a secure travel crate.
Pros
- Large size for big dogs up to 90 lbs
- Durable construction for safety
- Easy to set up and fold down
- Good ventilation with multiple doors
Cons
- Heavier than smaller models
- Less portable for travel
- May be too large for smaller vehicles
Best for: Large breeds needing space. Not ideal for: Owners with small vehicles or those needing a lightweight option.
The MidWest 42-Inch iCrate is perfect for larger dogs requiring spacious travel.
3. Best Heavy-Duty
Amazon Basics Portable Metal Wire Dog Crate for Large Dogs, Double Door with Removable Tray, Divider Panel, Easy to Assemble, 48" x 30" x 32.5", Black
- 48-inch dog crate for pets under 46 x 28.5 inches (LxH), like a Bernese, Labrador, Rottweiler, or Great Dane
- Durable metal wire construction with manual door locking mechanism for secure containment ;2 doors (front and side) and a divider for adjusting the internal space
- Sets up quickly and folds down flat for easy transport or compact storage; top handle for comfortable carrying ; Removable plastic base tray for easy cleaning; Fasten the bar buckle in front of the tray after installing the tray
- Metal hook at the bottom of the crate to prevent plastic tray from moving out. Please lock the hook well after installing the tray everytime in daily use
- Product Dimensions: 48 x 30 x 32.5 inches (LxWxH)
- Please read all safety instructions prior to use. Note: Your dog should be able to stand up and turn around comfortably while in the crate. Measure from nose to base of tail when standing, and from top of head to floor. Add 4 inches to those measurements to confirm optimal crate height and length.
The Amazon Basics Portable Metal Wire Dog Crate is designed for large dogs. It measures 48 x 30 x 32.5 inches, making it suitable for breeds like Labradors and Rottweilers. This crate features a double door design and a removable tray for easy cleaning. Its metal wire construction adds durability while allowing for ventilation.
Compared to the other options, this crate provides a good balance between affordability and functionality. However, it is not as lightweight as some other travel-specific models. The extra size may also mean less portability for users with smaller cars.
A limitation is that the manual locking mechanism may not be as secure against determined pets. Overall, it is a reliable choice for those needing a larger crate for car travel.
Pros
- Large size accommodates big dogs
- Double door design for easy access
- Removable tray for easy cleaning
- Durable metal wire construction
Cons
- Heavier compared to soft crates
- Manual lock may not be secure enough
- Bulky for small cars
Best for: Large, well-behaved dogs. Not ideal for: Dogs that might escape due to the lock mechanism.
The Amazon Basics Portable Metal Wire Crate offers solid features for large dogs on the go.
4. Best Budget
FDW Dog Crate for Large Dogs 42 Inch Folding Metal WirePet Cage Double Door W/Divider Panel Indoor Outdoor Kennel Leak-Proof Plastic Tray,Black
- 【Dog Crate Made of Durable Materials】: the dog crate Made of high Tensile-Strength wire gauge.The dog cage ideal for training and transporting well-behaved pets. Pet crate epoxy coating finish extends the life of the crate and provides resistance against rust, corrosion, and fading, even in the most extreme climates. Dog crate dog cage pet crate.
- 【Designed to Safe and Comfortable】: The pet cage have two large doors, one on the front and one on the side, are easy to open, close.Heavy duty securely lock with dual latches, providing a safe and secure environment for your pet.The dog cage designed to keep animals safe and comfortable. Pet kennel wire dog crate animal cage.
- 【Easy Assembly】: This dog cage does not require any tool assembly, dog cage can be deployed directly. It only takes a few minutes. The pet cage divider can separate two pets in two spaces.Dog crate pet cage dog cage with divider.
- 【Easy to Clean】: the dog cage includes a durable leak-proof ABS Composite tray that will not stain, warp, corrode or retain pet odors. The pet cage bottom pan features an integrated Lip around the perimeter, to contain any mess from spilling outside the dog kennel. Dog cage with tray pet crate metal dog cage.
- 【Folds Easy to Storage and Portable】: this pet cage with handle is ideal for travel.Fold-and-carry construction dog crate with collapsible design that folds into a package less than 3″ Thick. Features a removable carrying handle that can be mounted on any side of the crate as needed. You can easily carry or storage This dog cage.Dog crate with handle metal dog cage dog kennel.
The FDW Dog Crate for Large Dogs is a sturdy option designed for durability. It measures 42 inches and is made of high tensile-strength wire. This makes it suitable for training and transporting well-behaved pets. The epoxy coating resists rust and corrosion, adding to its lifespan.
In terms of competition, it is less portable than the MidWest iCrates but offers strong build quality. It lacks the lightweight design that makes other models easier to transport. This crate is great for at-home use but may not be the best for frequent travelers.
A limitation is that it can be heavy and cumbersome to move. It is best for owners looking for a sturdy and durable crate but may not suit those who travel often.
Pros
- High tensile-strength wire for durability
- Epoxy coating resists rust and fading
- Double door design for easy access
- Ideal for training and transporting pets
Cons
- Heavy and less portable
- Not ideal for travel due to weight
- Limited ventilation compared to wire crates
Best for: Owners needing a sturdy indoor crate. Not ideal for: Frequent travelers looking for portability.
The FDW Dog Crate is a solid choice for owners seeking durability over travel ease.
5. Best for Daily Use
Sweetcrispy Dog Crate 42 Inch, Medium Large Dog Cage, Foldable Pet Kennel
- Enhanced Security: With rounded edges, smooth rounded corners and matching accessories, our dog crates prioritize safety. Thick metal mesh and double doors with 2 heavy-duty sliding bolt locks not only prevent your dog from escaping, but also provide optimal protection for your pet
- Sturdy and Durable: Our dog crates are made of high quality materials for durability. The sturdy construction ensures that it stands up to wear and tear, making it a reliable choice for long-term use. The double door (one door on the front and one on the side) design feature also makes it easy to place and use in any space
- Easy to Carry: Our dog crate is collapsible, giving you the flexibility to take it with you wherever you go. Folded for space-saving, easy storage, it’s perfect for traveling, camping, or any on-the-go adventures with your furry friend
- Maximum Comfort: The spacious interior of our dog crate ensures that your pet feels comfortable and secure. The open, breathable design promotes air circulation, creatting a comfortable environment for your pet to relax
- Easy to Clean and Maintain: Our dog crate features a durable, leak-proof ABS composite tray that is Easy to Clean and Maintain. It resists stains, warping, corrosion, and odors, ensuring a hygienic and comfortable environment for your pet
The Sweetcrispy Dog Crate offers a foldable design that is both sturdy and secure. Measuring 42 inches, it has rounded edges to promote safety. The double doors with heavy-duty locks help keep dogs contained during travel. Compared to other options, this crate emphasizes safety features, making it a preferred choice for nervous dogs.
In comparison to the other models, its design prioritizes protection. However, it may not be as portable since it is built for sturdiness. The focus on safety could make it heavier than some portable crates.
One limitation is that it might not fit well in smaller vehicles. Overall, it is a good pick for those focused on safety and stability during car travel.
Pros
- Rounded edges for added safety
- Double doors with heavy-duty locks
- Foldable design for storage
- Sturdy construction for larger dogs
Cons
- Can be heavy and less portable
- Might not fit smaller vehicles
- Less ventilation than some models
Best for: Safety-conscious owners. Not ideal for: Frequent travelers needing lightweight options.
The Sweetcrispy Dog Crate excels in safety and sturdiness, ideal for careful travelers.
6. Best Design
Amazon Basics Portable, Foldable Metal Wire Small Dog Crate with Removable Tray, Divider Panel, Single Door, Easy to Assemble, 24" x 18" x 20", Black
- 24-inch dog crate for pets under 20 x 15.25 inches (LxH), like a Havanese or Pug
- Durable metal wire construction with manual door locking mechanism for secure containment
- Sets up quickly and folds down flat for easy transport or compact storage; top handle for comfortable carrying
- 1 door and a divider for adjusting the internal space
- Removable plastic base tray for easy cleaning
- Metal hook at the bottom of the crate to prevent plastic tray from moving out. Please lock the hook well after installing the tray everytime in daily use
- Product Dimensions: 24 x 18 x 20 inches (LxWxH)
- Please read all safety instructions prior to use. Note: Your dog should be able to stand up and turn around comfortably while in the crate. Measure from nose to base of tail when standing, and from top of head to floor. Add 4 inches to those measurements to confirm optimal crate height and length.
The Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate is designed for convenience. It measures 29.92 x 21.3 x 21.3 inches, making it suitable for small to medium dogs. It is lightweight and collapsible, which makes it easy to carry and store. Compared to the other crates, this one is soft-sided, making it more comfortable for pets.
While it is easy to set up and transport, soft crates may not offer the same level of security as metal or hard-sided options. They are great for well-behaved pets but may not suit all dogs. This model stands out for its ease of use but compromises on safety.
A limitation is that it can be chewed through by determined pets. Overall, this crate is great for leisure travel but may not hold up under stress.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Soft-sided for pet comfort
- Collapsible for easy storage
- Sets up quickly without tools
Cons
- Less secure than metal crates
- May be damaged by chewing
- Not suitable for active or aggressive dogs
Best for: Calm small to medium dogs. Not ideal for: Chewers or escape artists.
The Amazon Basics Soft Crate is perfect for easy transport with calm pets.
7. Best Splurge
Hzuaneri 31.5'' Dog Crate Furniture,Dog Kennel Indoor for Small/Medium Dogs
- Anti-Chew & Anti-Escape: We know how important it is to keep your pets comfortable. We use 0.4 inch heavy duty iron pipe, double welding points and thickened engineered wood, and each door has 2 locks to provide multiple layers of protection to reduce your dog from escape!
- Decorative Pet Cage: This is more than just a dog kennel indoor, it can also be used as a TV stand, coffee table or side table in the living room. In the bedroom, it can be used as a nightstand or placed at the foot of the bed
- Size Fits Your Dogs: The internal size of this dog furniture crate 29.3″L x 19.8″W x 22.4″H, suitable for small/medium dog breeds such as French Bulldogs, Corgis and Dachshunds
- 3-Door Design: Our dog crates feature a 3-door design that allows for easy access from the front and sides for your furry friend
- Unique Arch Door: Our furniture dog crate adopts a novel arch design, which blends in with many modern furniture styles. The and elegant style of the arch creates a clean, tidy and comfortable living environment for you
The Hzuaneri 31.5” Dog Crate Furniture offers a stylish design for small to medium dogs. It features heavy-duty iron pipes and engineered wood for durability. This crate doubles as furniture, making it a great addition to your home. Compared to others, it offers a unique look but sacrifices portability.
This model emphasizes aesthetics, making it a great choice for home use. While it is sturdy, it is not designed for travel, which makes it less versatile than other options. The focus on design means it may not fit well in a car.
A limitation is that it doesn’t fold for transport. Overall, it is a stylish option but not meant for car travel.
Pros
- Stylish design that doubles as furniture
- Heavy-duty iron construction
- Round corners for safety
- Durable and stable for indoor use
Cons
- Not portable for travel
- Cannot fold for storage
- Limited ventilation compared to wire crates
Best for: Indoor use as furniture. Not ideal for: Traveling with pets.
The Hzuaneri Dog Crate blends style with utility for home use.
8. Runner-Up
Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Double Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Easy to Assemble, Medium, 29.92" x 21.3" x 21.3", Tan
- 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)
The Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate is designed for convenience. Measuring 29.92 x 21.3 x 21.3 inches, it fits small to medium dogs comfortably. This soft-sided crate is lightweight and easy to fold, making it ideal for travel. Compared to other models, it offers softness and portability.
While the soft design is comfortable, it may not be secure for all pets. Some dogs might chew or escape from this type of crate. The Amazon Basics model is great for calm pets but not recommended for energetic or anxious dogs.
A limitation is that the durability may not hold up with aggressive chewers. Overall, it is a convenient option for peaceful travel with smaller dogs.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Soft and comfortable design
- Folds for easy storage
- Quick setup without tools
Cons
- Not secure for strong chewers
- Less durable than wire crates
- Not suitable for active dogs
Best for: Calm small dogs. Not ideal for: Strong or anxious dogs.
The Amazon Basics Soft Crate is a travel-friendly option for small, calm pets.
Dog Crates Compared Side by Side
The comparison table lists key specs and features of each dog crate. You can see dimensions, weight limits, and additional features. This will help you find the best dog crate for car travel that suits your needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Midwest 30-Inch Single Door iCrate | Best Overall | MidWest Homes For Pets | $49.99 | Check |
| 2 | Midwest 42-Inch Single Door iCrate | Best for Car Travel | MidWest Homes For Pets | $97.99 | Check |
| 3 | Amazon Basics Portable Metal Wire Dog Crate for Large Dogs | Best Heavy-Duty | Amazon | $100.64 | Check |
| 4 | FDW Dog Crate for Large Dogs 42 Inch Folding Metal… | Best Budget | FDW | 52.14 | Check |
| 5 | Sweetcrispy Dog Crate 42 Inch | Best for Daily Use | Sweetcrispy | $53.92 | Check |
| 6 | Amazon Basics Portable | Best Design | Amazon | $35.64 | Check |
| 7 | Hzuaneri 31.5'' Dog Crate Furniture,Dog Kennel Indoor for… | Best Splurge | Hzuaneri | $119.99 | Check |
| 8 | Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate | Runner-Up | Amazon | $40.14 | Check |
| 9 | Midwest 24-Inch Single Door iCrate | — | MidWest Homes For Pets | $40.99 | Check |
| 10 | DUMOS 24 Inch Dog Crate | — | DUMOS | $19.92 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from multiple pet supply websites, customer reviews, and manufacturer specifications. Sources included Amazon, PetSmart, and Chewy. We aimed to ensure that our information was accurate and up-to-date.
How we built this shortlist
To build the shortlist, we filtered out crates based on size, materials, and customer ratings. We looked at over 30 models and selected those that meet our criteria. Each pick was chosen for its specific advantages in car travel.
What we ruled out and why
We ruled out crates that did not meet safety standards or had low customer ratings. Crates that were hard to transport or lacked essential features were also excluded. This helped us focus on reliable options for car travel.
What we did not do
No products were tested by hand, and no lab measurements were taken. We did not create any scores or personal opinions. Our focus was solely on data from trusted sources.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated quarterly to reflect new products and reviews. We aim to keep the information current and relevant. If there are any major changes in the market, we will make updates sooner.
What to look for
Size and Dimensions
When choosing a dog crate for car travel, size is key. Measure your dog’s height and length. Look for a crate that offers at least a few inches of extra space. Generally, a crate should allow your dog to stand up comfortably and turn around without feeling cramped.
Material Durability
The material of the dog crate matters for safety and longevity. Metal wire crates are common and offer good ventilation. Plastic crates are lighter and often easier to clean. Choose a material that suits your dog’s behavior and your transportation needs.
Portability Features
Look for portability features if you travel often. Some crates fold flat for easy storage. Others have handles or wheels. These features make it simpler to move the crate in and out of your car.
Safety and Security
Safety features are important in a dog crate for car travel. Ensure the crate has secure locking mechanisms. Double-door designs can make access easier while keeping your dog secure. Check for any sharp edges that could pose a risk.
Ease of Assembly
Choose a crate that is easy to assemble. Some models require no tools, while others may need a little more effort. Quick assembly is especially helpful if you need to set it up in a hurry.
How to Choose Dog Crates
Measure Your Dog
Always start by measuring your dog’s height and length. Use these measurements to find a crate that offers at least 2-4 inches of extra space. This ensures comfort during travel.
Consider the Weight Limit
Check the weight limit of the crate. It should handle your dog’s weight comfortably. Crates often list weight ranges, so ensure your pet falls within this range.
Look for Ventilation
Proper ventilation is important for your dog’s comfort. Look for crates with plenty of openings for airflow. This helps keep your dog cool during longer trips.
Focus on Safety Features
Safety should be a priority when choosing a crate. Look for features like secure locking mechanisms and rounded edges. These can protect your dog and keep them secure while traveling.
Select a Portable Design
Portability is key for car travel. Choose a crate that folds easily and has handles or wheels for transport. This makes it simpler to load and unload from your vehicle.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best dog crate for car travel?
The best dog crate for car travel is the MidWest 30-Inch Single Door iCrate. It has a comfortable size for medium breeds and is easy to transport.
How do I keep my dog safe in a car crate?
Ensure the crate is securely fastened in the vehicle. Use a seatbelt or cargo straps. Check that the crate has good ventilation and is a comfortable size.
Can I use a regular crate for car travel?
Not all regular crates are suitable for car travel. Look for ones designed for vehicles, as they often have safety features and ease of transport.
How do I choose the right size crate for my dog?
Measure your dog’s height and length. Then, add a few inches to each measurement for comfort. This ensures they have room to move in the crate.
Is a metal or plastic crate better for car travel?
Metal crates are more durable and offer better ventilation. Plastic crates are lighter and easier to clean. Choose based on your dog’s behavior and travel needs.
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