Does your dog struggle to stay calm during long car rides or trips to the vet? Many pet owners find that traditional metal crates are heavy, noisy, and difficult to store. While these sturdy cages have their place, they often feel like a prison for your furry friend. If you want a cozy, portable, and comfortable space for your dog, a soft-sided crate might be the perfect solution for your home.
Choosing the right soft-sided crate can feel overwhelming because there are so many brands, sizes, and materials on the market. You might worry about durability, ventilation, or whether your dog will chew through the fabric. It is easy to waste money on a low-quality crate that falls apart after just a few uses. You deserve to find a product that balances safety with convenience.
In this guide, we will break down everything you need to know to make the best choice for your pup. We will look at the top features to check, how to pick the correct size, and which materials hold up best over time. By the end of this post, you will feel confident in selecting a crate that keeps your dog happy and relaxed. Let’s dive into the world of soft-sided crates and find the perfect match for your four-legged companion.
Top 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
- Home & Travelling Companion - Our collapsible portable soft dog crates is perfect for travelling, it can be easily carried and moved, the fabric dog cage protects the dog in the car and is also suitable for use at home, the huge space can be used as a dog kennel for your pet!
- Durable and Chewing Resistant - Although our dog crate is designed with fabric, but compared to iron dog crate is not inferior, the frame is made of thickened steel pipe, the fabric is made of 620D Oxford cloth, the four corners are wrapped with stronger leather, which can effectively prevent pets from scratching and chewing!
- Breathable and Multi-door Design - Our dog crates are surrounded and topped with breathable mesh, which allows airflow to circulate, making it more comfortable for pets to stay inside, and the multi-door design makes it easier for pets to get in and out of the crate from all different positions.
- Easy Installation - The soft dog crate is designed for straightforward installation, requiring no tools and only a few seconds to assemble. Its compact, foldable design allows for convenient storage and portability, optimising space utilisation.
- Lightweight & Portable - Compared to traditional iron dog crates that are bulky and not easy to fold, our crates can be easily folded and carried by just one person, perfect for indoor and outdoor use!
- 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.
- 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
- Designed for Traveling: As the recipient of a 2026 Good Housekeeping Award, this soft-sided crate features a foldable construction frame that can be easily folded into an extra compact package. It comes with a convenient storage bag, allowing you to carry it effortlessly on your outings and travels. The quick assembly in just 2 minutes and easy disassembly make it a hassle-free choice for your adventures.
- Breathable & Comfortable: The four-side zippered breathable mesh walls ensure optimal ventilation, providing a comfortable environment for your furry friend. The soft plush mat inside the crate offers a cozy and comfortable space for them to relax and unwind.
- Enhanced Safety: This crate features a sturdy iron frame that maintains structural integrity. Reflective strips on both sides provide visibility for your pet's safety. The self-locking zipper system prevents escapes, while the mesh offers secure containment. An integrated leash adds an additional safety measure.
- Easy Assembly, Storage, & Maintenance: The convenient and simple design allows for quick assembly within 2 minutes. The crate can be folded into two different ways, catering to various indoor and outdoor settings. It features a water resistant design with waterproof fabric, making it easy to clean with just a damp cloth. The removable and machine washable mat simplifies care.
- Various Sizes for All Breeds: This crate is available in four sizes to accommodate different breeds and sizes of pets. Choose from S (up to 35lbs), M (up to 50lbs), L (up to 70lbs), and XL (up to 90lbs) to find the perfect fit for your furry companion.
- 【SAFE & SECURE CONSTRUCTION】This portable dog kennel is with protected seams and reinforced corners ensure your pet's safety. Made from durable quality & water-resistant materials makes it a great crate for small and medium dogs/cat/rabbit.
- 【THREE DOORS DESIGN】The dog cage features 3 high-density mesh windows for convenient access and be more ventilate.Double Zipper avoids pet’s escaping. Removable pad is comfortable and washable.
- 【DIMENSION】24.0"L×16.0"W×19.0"H: For extra small pets & small cats. 28"Lx18"Wx22"H,would fit 1-2 cats.ATTENTION:JUST fit small dog like Standard Poodle,Schnauzer OR SMALLER PET. 32"Lx21"Wx26"H,would fit Medium Pet like Boxer/Bulldog/Chihuahua/ French Bulldog. 36.0"L×23.0"W×28.0"H: For medium to large pets. Please compare it's size with the kennel and choose the right size.
- 【EASY TO FOLD AND UNFOLD】The sturdy and flexible steel wire makes sets up in seconds and requires no assembly, folds flat when not in use for easy carrying and storing. Warping occurs sometimes. Easy to get back to normal.
- 【OCCASIONS】This pop up dog kennel is ideal for indoor and outdoor use. Great as a car crate or travel kennel for camping and day trips.
The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Soft-Sided Dog Crate
Soft-sided dog crates offer a lightweight, portable alternative to heavy metal wire cages. They provide a cozy den for your pet while keeping your home organized. Whether you are traveling by car or just need a quiet space for your dog, these crates are a great choice. Follow this guide to pick the perfect one for your furry friend.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a crate, look for these essential features:
- Portability: Choose a crate that folds flat quickly. This makes storage and travel much easier.
- Ventilation: Ensure the crate has mesh panels on at least three sides. Good airflow keeps your dog cool and comfortable.
- Security: Look for zippers with locking mechanisms. Some dogs are clever enough to unzip their doors if the locks are weak.
- Accessibility: Most crates have a front door and a top door. A top opening is helpful for nervous dogs who need gentle coaxing.
Important Materials
The materials determine how long your crate will last. Most high-quality crates use a heavy-duty polyester or nylon fabric. This material resists tears and is easy to wipe clean. Look for a strong PVC or steel frame inside the fabric. A sturdy frame keeps the crate standing upright. Check the floor material as well. A water-resistant bottom is important to protect your floors from accidents.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all soft crates are created equal. You can spot a high-quality crate by checking the stitching. Double-stitched seams prevent the fabric from ripping under pressure. Low-quality crates often have thin mesh that tears easily if a dog paws at it. Always check the quality of the zippers. Smooth, heavy-duty zippers are a sign of a well-made product. Avoid crates with flimsy plastic connectors, as these often break after a few uses.
User Experience and Use Cases
Soft-sided crates are best for crate-trained dogs. They are perfect for road trips because they fit easily in the backseat of a car. Many owners use them for dog shows or camping trips. Because they are lightweight, you can move them from room to room without effort. However, they are not recommended for dogs that chew or scratch when anxious. If your dog is a “destructive chewer,” a metal crate is a safer option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are soft-sided crates escape-proof?
A: No. Soft crates are made of fabric. A determined dog can tear through the mesh or fabric if they try hard enough.
Q: How do I choose the right size?
A: Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Measure your dog from nose to tail and add a few inches.
Q: Can I wash the crate?
A: Most soft crates have removable covers that are machine washable. Check the product label for specific cleaning instructions.
Q: Are these crates good for puppies?
A: They are great for quiet puppies. However, if your puppy is teething and chews everything, they might destroy the fabric walls.
Q: Can I use these for airline travel?
A: Some soft crates are airline-approved, but you must check with your specific airline first. Most airlines have strict size and material requirements.
Q: How do I stop my dog from scratching the mesh?
A: Keep your dog well-exercised and provide chew toys inside the crate. This keeps them busy and reduces anxiety.
Q: Do these crates provide enough airflow?
A: Yes. The mesh windows provide excellent ventilation. This keeps the inside of the crate cool during warm weather.
Q: Can I use a soft crate outdoors?
A: Yes, they are great for shade at the park. Just ensure the crate is staked down if it is windy.
Q: Are these crates heavy?
A: No. They are designed to be light and portable. Most weigh less than 10 pounds.
Q: How long do these crates last?
A: With proper care and a calm dog, a good quality crate can last for several years.