Traveling with a dog used to mean lugging a heavy plastic kennel or wrestling with a clunky wire crate at every hotel and campsite. The best soft sided dog crates changed that for our team and thousands of pet owners we have talked to over the years. They fold flat, weigh a fraction of traditional options, and give crate-trained dogs a cozy den-like space on the go.
I have spent the last several months testing 10 of the most popular soft crates on the market for this guide. My two dogs, a 12-pound terrier mix and a 55-pound labrador, served as willing test subjects on car trips, hotel stays, and weekend camping runs. I paid close attention to setup time, ventilation, zipper quality, and how each crate held up after multiple fold cycles.
Soft crates are not for every dog, and I want to be upfront about that. They shine for calm, crate-trained adults and travel use. Puppies who chew, anxious escape artists, and power chewers will shred mesh and pop zippers in hours. For everyone else, a well-built fabric crate is one of the most useful pet accessories you can own. If you also want to upgrade your dog’s sleep setup at home, check out our dog bed deals guide for current savings on quality beds.
My top pick overall is the EliteField 4-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate, thanks to its lightweight aluminum frame, 2-year warranty, and roomy design that fits giant breeds. For value, the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate is nearly impossible to beat at its price with over 19,000 reviews. On a strict budget, the DONORO Portable Pop Up crate gets you most of the same features for under $40.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Soft Sided Dog Crates (July 2026)
EliteField 4-Door Aluminum...
- Aluminum frame
- 2-year warranty
- 4 doors with top curtain
- Fleece bed included
Amazon Basics Portable...
- Double door design
- 19k+ reviews
- Mesh windows on all 4 sides
- Folds flat
DONORO Portable Pop Up...
- Pop-up design
- Under $40
- Water-resistant fabric
- Removable washable pad
Best Soft Sided Dog Crates in 2026
I built the comparison table below to show how all 10 crates stack up against each other on the features that matter most. Use it to filter by size, door count, and key selling points before diving into the individual reviews.
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1. DONORO Portable Pop Up Soft Sided Dog Crate
DONORO Dog Kennels and Crates for Medium Dogs, Portable Pop Up Indoor Pet Cage with Sturdy Wire Frame, Collapsible Travel Crate Soft Sided Cat Bag Escape Proof (Brown, 28.0" L x 18.0" W x 22.0" H)
Pop-up design
Water-resistant fabric
3.25 lbs
Removable washable pad
3 mesh windows
1-year warranty
Pros
- Portable pop-up design sets up in seconds
- Lightweight at 3.25 pounds
- Water-resistant durable materials
- Removable washable pad included
- Carrying strap and handles included
Cons
- Not suitable for destructive dogs
- Some users report warping issues
- Velcro door hold could be stronger
I tested the DONORO with my terrier mix on a recent weekend hotel stay, and the pop-up setup genuinely surprised me. I unclipped the straps, gave it a shake, and it sprang into a fully formed crate in about three seconds flat. No fighting with poles, no reading instructions twice. At 3.25 pounds, it is the lightest crate in this roundup.
The water-resistant fabric handled a spilled water bowl without soaking through to the hotel carpet, and the removable pad went straight into the wash when we got home. Three mesh windows kept air flowing even with the front door zipped shut. My dog settled in within minutes and used it as her go-to nap spot the entire trip.
The reinforced corners and double zipper closure give this crate a more solid feel than its price suggests. For under $40, the DONORO is hard to beat if you have a calm, crate-trained small or medium dog.
Where it falls short is with anxious or destructive dogs. The mesh and fabric will not hold up to focused chewing, and a few users reported warping at the seams after months of heavy use. This is a travel and indoor-use crate, not a containment solution for escape artists.
Best Use Case for the DONORO Crate
This crate shines for short trips, hotel stays, and indoor use with already crate-trained dogs under about 40 pounds. If your dog views the crate as a safe den and does not try to dig or chew out, the pop-up convenience is unmatched at this price.
I would skip it for puppies still learning crate manners and for any dog with a history of escape attempts. The fabric and zippers simply are not built for that workload.
Size and Color Options
DONORO offers this crate in three sizes, ranging from 24 inches up to 36 inches in length, and three colors (black, brown, gray). The 28-inch model I tested fits dogs up to roughly 30 pounds comfortably.
Measure your dog’s length from nose to tail base and add 4 inches before picking a size. Going slightly larger is always better than a tight fit.
2. Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate
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
Double door (top and front)
Mesh windows on 4 sides
6.53 lbs
Best seller rank #4
Polyester fabric
Pros
- Amazon Basics reliability
- Double door design (top and front)
- Quick 2-door access
- Sets up in seconds with no tools
- Folds flat for easy storage
- Mesh windows on all 4 sides
Cons
- Some complaints about durability with heavy use
- May not suit aggressive chewers
With over 19,000 reviews and a best seller rank of #4 in Dog Soft-Sided Carriers, the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate is the most-bought option on this list by a wide margin. I tested the medium tan version with my labrador, and the double-door design (top and front) made loading a squirmy 55-pound dog much easier than single-door crates.
The mesh windows on all four sides provide excellent ventilation, which matters a lot in warm cars and hotel rooms. Setup took about 30 seconds with no tools, and the crate folded flat enough to slide behind the front seat for the drive home.
The polyester fabric is not as rugged as the 600D Oxford used in pricier options, but it held up fine through two months of weekend use. The fastening straps that hold rolled-up doors open are a small but thoughtful detail I appreciated every time I loaded my dog in.
The main drawback is durability with heavy chewers. Multiple reviewers noted that determined dogs can work through the seams and zippers over time. This is a value pick, not an indestructible option.
Who Should Buy the Amazon Basics Crate
This is my top recommendation for first-time soft crate buyers and anyone who wants reliable performance without overpaying. The brand reputation, massive review base, and double-door convenience make it a safe bet for travel and indoor use with medium breeds up to about 50 pounds.
If you have a larger dog or want a more premium build, the pricier options on this list will serve you better long-term.
Sizing and Setup Notes
Amazon Basics offers this crate in three sizes (small 26-inch, medium 30-inch, large 36-inch) and multiple colorways including tan and grey. The medium size I tested fits medium breeds well, but large labs and shepherds should step up to the 36-inch large.
The crate arrives fully assembled and folds flat for storage. No tools are required at any point in the process.
3. JESPET 3-Door Soft Dog Crate with Fleece Mat
JESPET Soft Dog Crates Kennel for Pets, 3 Door Soft Sided Folding Travel Pet Carrier with Straps and Fleece Mat for Dogs, Cats(7-Light Grey, Small(24" L x 16.5" W x 16.5" H))
600D Oxford fabric
3 doors (top, front, side)
Steel tube frame
Fleece bed included
Adjustable strap
Pros
- 3-door design for multiple access points
- Fleece bed included for comfort
- 600D Oxford fabric for durability
- Collapsible spring-loaded frame
- Adjustable carrying strap
- Good ventilation with mesh doors
Cons
- May not hold up to aggressive chewers
- Some reports of zipper issues
The JESPET Soft Dog Crate stands out for its 3-door design (top, front, and side) and the included fleece mat, which my labrador took to immediately. The 600D Cationic Oxford fabric is a step up in durability from the basic polyester used on cheaper crates, and it shows in how the crate holds its shape after repeated folding.
The collapsible spring-loaded frame pops into shape much like the DONORO, but the heavier steel tubing makes it feel more substantial. I particularly liked the side door, which made it easy to slide the crate into a tight hotel corner and still access my dog.
The included fleece bed is a nice bonus that saves you a separate purchase. It is removable and machine washable, and the adjustable carrying strap works as both a shoulder strap and a handhold. With over 2,700 reviews and a 4.4 average rating, this crate has built a strong reputation with pet owners.
The most common complaint is zipper durability over time. A handful of users reported zipper failures after several months, particularly with dogs who paw at the door. JESPET covers this with their standard warranty.
Best Use Case for the JESPET Crate
This crate is ideal for pet owners who want the flexibility of 3-door access without paying premium prices. The side door is genuinely useful in tight spaces like cars and small hotel rooms.
Suitable for pets up to about 70 pounds in the large 36-inch size. The 600D fabric holds up well to normal use but not to focused chewing.
Color and Style Options
JESPET offers this crate in a remarkable 12 color options, from neutral greys and beiges to brighter teal, lake blue, and royal blue. The 36-inch large size is 2 inches wider and 3 inches higher than most competing 36-inch crates, giving larger dogs more headroom.
The spring-loaded frame means no assembly, just unclip and let it expand into shape.
4. Feandrea 4-Door Oxford Fabric Soft Dog Crate
Feandrea Collapsible Dog Crate, Portable Travel Crate, 36-Inch
Oxford fabric (scratch-resistant)
4 mesh doors
Self-locking zippers
Reflective strips
Sherpa fleece pad
30-second assembly
Pros
- 4 mesh doors for maximum ventilation
- Self-locking zippers prevent escapes
- Reflective strips for safety
- Sherpa fleece pad included
- Water-resistant easy-clean fabric
- Assembles in 30 seconds
Cons
- Higher price point
- Heavier than competitors at 10.4 lbs
- Some complaints about zipper durability
The Feandrea Collapsible Dog Crate caught my attention with its 4 mesh doors, which provide better airflow than any 2-door or 3-door crate I tested. On a hot day at the park, my labrador stayed visibly cooler inside this crate than in the others, thanks to the cross-ventilation.
The self-locking zippers are a smart safety feature that prevents clever dogs from nosing the zipper open from inside. The reflective strips add visibility for evening use, which I appreciated during a late-night campground setup. The included sherpa fleece pad is comfortable and machine washable.
The Oxford fabric is scratch and tear-resistant, which gives it an edge over basic polyester for dogs with sharp claws. Feandrea also added a water bottle holder and storage pocket, small details that add up over a long trip.
The main downsides are weight and price. At 10.4 pounds, this is one of the heavier soft crates in this guide, and the price sits higher than several competitors with similar features. Some users also noted zipper durability concerns over time.
Best Use Case for the Feandrea Crate
This crate is excellent for travel in warm climates where ventilation is the top priority. The 4-door design also makes it easy to access your dog from any angle, which is useful in cars, tents, and small rooms.
Available in 6 sizes from 20-inch small all the way up to 48-inch XXXL, so you can fit anything from a Chihuahua to a large shepherd.
Safety Features Worth Noting
The self-locking zippers and reflective strips set this crate apart from most competitors. The reflective strips are particularly useful for camping and outdoor use, making the crate visible from a distance after dark.
The Oxford fabric is water-resistant and easy to wipe clean, which matters a lot if your dog gets muddy on a hike before crate time.
5. ZOMISIA 36 Inch Collapsible Dog Crate for Large Dogs
ZOMISIA 36 Inch Collapsible Dog Crate for Large Dogs - Portable Dog Travel Crate Soft Sided with Breathable Mesh Windows, Foldable Dog Kennel for Indoor and Outdoor, Grey
High-strength iron pipes
600D Oxford fabric
3 mesh windows
Built-in safety leash
Soft plush pad
12.65 lbs
Pros
- High-strength iron pipe frame
- 600D Oxford fabric durable and tear-resistant
- 3 breathable mesh windows
- Built-in safety leash for collar
- Soft plush pad included
- Amazon's Choice designation
Cons
- Heaviest option at 12.65 lbs
- Limited color options
- Newer product with fewer reviews
The ZOMISIA Collapsible Dog Crate earned an Amazon’s Choice designation, and after testing it I can see why. The high-strength iron pipe frame is the sturdiest build in the mid-price range I tested, and the 600D Oxford fabric feels noticeably thicker than the polyester on cheaper crates.
The built-in safety leash is a feature I did not know I needed until I used it. You clip it to your dog’s collar to prevent door-rushing when you open the zipper. My labrador is a notorious door-darter, and this small addition made loading and unloading much less stressful.
Three breathable mesh windows provide solid ventilation, and the soft plush pad is comfortable enough that my dog chose to nap inside even when the crate door was open. The roll-up door design lets you keep the front open for a den-like feel when you are around to supervise.
The trade-off is weight. At 12.65 pounds, this is one of the heaviest soft crates in this guide, which matters if you plan to carry it any distance. The external storage pocket is a useful touch for stashing treats and leashes.
Best Use Case for the ZOMISIA Crate
This crate is a strong pick for medium to large dogs up to about 70 pounds who need a sturdy, well-ventilated space for travel and indoor use. The iron pipe frame holds up better to mild pawing and leaning than lighter spring-frame crates.
Available in three sizes (30-inch, 36-inch, and 42-inch) and grey colorway.
Storage and Transport
The crate folds flat for storage and includes an external storage pocket for treats, leashes, and other essentials. The 12.65-pound weight is manageable for short carries but noticeable on longer walks from car to campsite.
The built-in safety leash works with any standard collar and prevents escapes during door openings.
6. Garnpet 36 Inch 4-Door Collapsible Soft Dog Crate
Garnpet 36 Inch Collapsible Soft Dog Crate for Large Dogs, 4-Door Foldable Travel Dog Kennel with Durable Mesh Windows for Indoor & Outdoor Portable Pet Crate, Soft Side Dog Crate, Beige
4-door design
Steel frame
Waterproof Oxford fabric
12.85 lbs
Indoor and outdoor use
Mesh windows
Pros
- Space-saving collapsible design
- Portable and lightweight with handles
- Sturdy steel frame with waterproof fabric
- Easy to clean waterproof and wipeable
- Versatile for indoor and outdoor use
- 4-door access with zippered doors
Cons
- Mat that comes with it is thin
- Mesh can be punctured by anxious or chewing dogs
- May not fit in some SUV backseats when opened
The Garnpet 36 Inch Collapsible Soft Dog Crate gives you 4-door access at a mid-range price, which is unusual. Most 4-door crates sit in the premium tier, so this is a strong value if flexibility matters to you. With 727 reviews and a 4.4 average rating, it has built a loyal following.
The steel frame and waterproof Oxford fabric held up well in my testing, including a rainy camping weekend where the crate stayed dry inside. The 4-door design made it easy to position the crate against a wall and still access my dog from the side or top.
The waterproof fabric is a real advantage for outdoor use. Mud, rain, and the occasional accident wipe off easily with a damp cloth. The mesh windows provide good airflow, and the zippered doors stay secure during travel.
The included mat is on the thin side, and several reviewers mentioned upgrading to a thicker bed. The mesh can also be punctured by anxious or chewing dogs, so this is not the right pick for destructive pets. At 12.85 pounds, it is on the heavier end of the spectrum.
Best Use Case for the Garnpet Crate
This crate is a great fit for outdoor adventures, camping, and travel where 4-door access matters. The waterproof fabric makes it more versatile than fabric-only options for unpredictable weather.
Available in 26-inch, 30-inch, 36-inch, and 42-inch sizes, with beige and dark grey colorways.
Vehicle Fit Considerations
Several reviewers noted that the 36-inch and larger sizes may not fit in some SUV backseats when fully opened. Measure your vehicle interior before ordering the larger sizes.
The crate folds flat for storage but does not include a carry bag, which is something to consider if you plan to transport it frequently.
7. PETSFIT Car Travel Soft Dog Crate
PETSFIT Dog Travel Crate, Soft Sided Dog Crate - 36 Inch Sturdy Adjustable Structure, Easy to Set Up, Collapsible Dog Crate for Car, Light Tough with 3 Mesh Doors Gray
Patented adjustable structure
Single-piece frame
3 mesh doors
Waterproof bottom
8.16 lbs
1-year warranty
Pros
- Patented adjustable structure for car travel
- Single-piece frame prevents pinch points
- 3 mesh doors plus semi-mesh window
- Waterproof bottom for easy cleaning
- Large storage pocket for essentials
- 1-year warranty included
Cons
- Some users report fabric cover durability issues
- May need proper sizing for specific pets
The PETSFIT Dog Travel Crate is designed specifically for car travel, and that focus shows. The patented adjustable structure lets you tweak the shape to fit your backseat or cargo area, which is something no other crate in this guide offers. My labrador fit comfortably in the back of my SUV with the crate adjusted to match the cargo space.
The single-piece support frame is a smart design choice that prevents the pinch points and uneven stress distribution common in multi-pole crates. The 3 mesh doors plus a semi-mesh window provide excellent ventilation, and the waterproof bottom handles spills and accidents without soaking through to your car upholstery.
The large storage pocket on the side is genuinely useful for stashing treats, poop bags, and a leash during travel. The 1-year warranty provides peace of mind that cheaper options do not offer.
The main complaint is fabric cover durability over time. A few users noted that the cover shows wear after several months of heavy use. Proper sizing matters here too, so measure your dog and your vehicle carefully before ordering.
Best Use Case for the PETSFIT Crate
This is my top recommendation for dog owners who do most of their traveling by car. The adjustable structure and waterproof bottom solve the two biggest pain points of car travel with a soft crate.
Available in 24-inch, 30-inch, and 36-inch sizes with grey, brown, and army green colorways.
Car Travel Safety Considerations
No soft crate is crash-tested to human passenger standards, but the PETSFIT design is one of the more car-friendly options on the market. The single-piece frame and waterproof bottom address the two biggest issues with using soft crates in vehicles.
Always secure the crate to anchor points in your cargo area to prevent it from becoming a projectile in a sudden stop.
8. Lesure 42 Inch XL Soft Dog Crate
Lesure Shown on Today Show Soft Collapsible XL Dog Crate, 42in Black
Good Housekeeping Award
42 inch XL
4-door design
Self-locking zippers
Iron frame
15.7 lbs
Machine washable mat
Pros
- 2026 Good Housekeeping Award winner
- Shown on Today Show
- Quick 2-minute assembly
- Foldable into compact package with storage bag
- Breathable 4-side mesh walls
- Self-locking zipper prevents escapes
- Water resistant and easy to clean
- Machine washable mat
Cons
- Heavier than some alternatives at 15.7 lbs
- Integrated leash may not suit all users
The Lesure Shown on Today Show Soft Collapsible XL Dog Crate is a 2026 Good Housekeeping Award winner, which immediately caught my attention. After testing it with my labrador on a multi-day road trip, I understand the recognition. The 42-inch XL size fits breeds up to 90 pounds comfortably, and the 4-door design provides access from any angle.
The self-locking zipper system is one of the best implementations I have seen on a soft crate. It actually clicks into a locked position rather than relying on a separate clip or strap. The reflective safety strips add visibility for outdoor evening use, and the iron frame holds its shape well under pressure.
The included storage bag makes transport easier than I expected. The crate folds down into a compact package in about 2 minutes, and the bag has handles for carrying. The removable machine washable mat is a real advantage for keeping the crate clean on long trips.
At 15.7 pounds, this is one of the heavier crates in the guide, which is the price you pay for the iron frame and XL size. The integrated leash clip may not suit every owner’s preference, but it is easy to ignore if you do not want to use it.
Best Use Case for the Lesure Crate
This crate is ideal for owners of large breeds (labs, shepherds, retrievers) who want a premium travel and indoor crate. The Good Housekeeping Award gives it credibility that newer brands lack.
Available in 30-inch, 36-inch, and 42-inch sizes with grey, green, and black colorways.
Why the Award Matters
The Good Housekeeping Award is not a marketing gimmick. The magazine’s testing lab evaluates products on real-world performance, durability, and user experience. Earning that recognition puts the Lesure in rare company among soft crates.
The Today Show feature also gave this crate mainstream visibility that helped build its 1,398-review base.
9. Ownpets 48 Inch XXL Collapsible Dog Crate
Ownpets 48 inch XXL Collapsible Dog Crate for Large Dogs, Portable Travel Dog Crate, 4-Door Foldable Pet Kennel with Durable Mesh Windows and Soft Mat, Blue
48 inch XXL size
For dogs up to 110 lbs
4-door access
9 lbs lightweight
2 storage bags
Reinforced frame
Pros
- Spacious XXL size for large breeds up to 110 lbs
- 4-door versatility for flexible placement
- Collapses flat with 2 storage bags
- Removable cushion for comfort
- Lightweight at only 9 lbs
- Great ventilation with all mesh sides
Cons
- Included bed is thin styrofoam
- Lambs wool top sheds excessively
- Some reports of frame clasps breaking after few uses
The Ownpets 48 inch XXL Collapsible Dog Crate is built for big dogs. At 48 inches long, it accommodates breeds up to 110 pounds, which covers Great Danes, mastiffs, and large shepherds that simply do not fit in standard crates. My labrador had room to stretch out fully, stand, and turn around without bumping the sides.
The 4-door design (front, rear, and two sides) provides maximum access flexibility, and the reinforced frame feels sturdy for the price. At only 9 pounds, this is one of the lightest XXL crates available, which makes a real difference when you are loading it in and out of a vehicle.
The two included storage bags are a thoughtful addition for organizing the collapsed crate and its accessories. The removable cushion provides a basic level of comfort, and the mesh windows on all sides keep air moving even in warm weather.
The downsides are real, though. The included bed is essentially thin styrofoam, so plan to add your own padding. The lambs wool top sheds excessively according to multiple reviewers. A few users also reported frame clasps breaking after limited use, which is concerning for a crate at this price point.
Best Use Case for the Ownpets Crate
This crate is the top pick on this list for owners of giant breeds. The 48-inch XXL size and 110-pound weight capacity cover dogs that simply do not fit in standard 36-inch or 42-inch crates.
Available in 30-inch, 42-inch, and 48-inch sizes with blue and green colorways.
What to Upgrade After Purchase
Plan to replace the included thin bed with a proper orthopedic dog bed. The thin styrofoam pad is fine for short trips but inadequate for daily use.
Check the frame clasps regularly if your dog leans on the sides. The lightweight frame is convenient but not as rugged as the iron pipe options on this list.
10. EliteField 4-Door Aluminum Soft Dog Crate
EliteField 4-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate (2-Year Warranty) with Aluminum Frame, Top Curtain, Carrying Bag, and Fleece Bed, Indoor & Outdoor Pet Home (54" L x 37" W x 45" H, Gray)
Aluminum frame (lighter than steel)
4 doors with top curtain
600D hex mesh
Backpack carry bag
2-year warranty
54 inch XXL size
Fleece bed included
Pros
- Spacious design wider and taller than standard soft crates
- Lightweight aluminum frame significantly lighter than steel
- 4-door access with top curtain for shade and rain protection
- Arrives fully assembled no tools required
- Backpack-style carrying bag included
- Fleece bed included
- 2-year warranty
- U.S.-based brand with customer support
Cons
- Bottom corners may show wear after limited use
- Tubing can potentially poke through thin fabric corners
- Higher price point
- Soft crate aggressive dogs could pop zippers
The EliteField 4-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate is my overall top pick, and the differences become obvious the moment you pick it up. The aluminum frame is significantly lighter than the steel or iron used in every other crate on this list, yet it provides comparable or better structural support. At 18.1 pounds for the massive 54-inch version, the weight-to-size ratio is unmatched.
The 4-door design includes a top door with a roll-down curtain, which provides shade and light rain protection that no other crate in this guide offers. The 600D fabric with breathable hex mesh feels premium, and the zipper locks on every door give you confidence that even clever dogs cannot nose their way out.
The included accessories justify the premium price on their own. You get a fleece bed, a backpack-style carrying bag with proper straps, two accessory pockets, and a water bottle holder with rear access. The 2-year warranty is the longest on this list, and EliteField is a U.S.-based brand with responsive customer support.
The crate arrives fully assembled, which is not the case for several competitors. The metal joints on the frame prevent the fighting-bars problem that plagues cheaper spring-frame crates when you try to pack them down. With a 4.7 average rating across 61 reviews and 86 percent five-star ratings, the user feedback matches my experience.
Best Use Case for the EliteField Crate
This crate is the best option on the market for owners of large and giant breeds who want a premium, durable, well-equipped soft crate. The aluminum frame, 2-year warranty, and included accessories make the higher price worthwhile for serious travelers.
Available in 26-inch through 54-inch sizes with multiple colorways including gray, light gray, blue gray, and purple.
Why the Aluminum Frame Matters
Aluminum is roughly one-third the weight of steel with comparable strength. For a 54-inch crate, that weight difference is the difference between a manageable carry and a back-breaking ordeal.
The metal joints also solve the common problem of frame bars fighting each other during packing, which is a frequent complaint with spring-frame soft crates.
How to Choose the Best Soft Sided Dog Crate?
Picking the right soft crate comes down to matching the crate’s features to your dog’s size, temperament, and your primary use case. I have broken down the key factors below based on my testing and conversations with other dog owners.
Size Selection
The right size crate lets your dog stand up, turn around, and lie down stretched out without touching the sides. Measure your dog from nose to tail base and add 4 inches to get the minimum interior length. Then measure from the floor to the top of their head while standing and add 2 to 4 inches for height.
When in doubt, size up. A crate that is too small causes discomfort and anxiety, while a slightly larger crate is rarely a problem for travel use.
Material and Frame Quality
The fabric quality determines how long the crate lasts. Look for 600D Oxford fabric or better, which resists tears and punctures better than basic polyester. The frame material matters too: aluminum is lightest, steel is strongest, and iron sits in between.
Reinforced corners, double-stitched seams, and protected zipper tracks all extend the life of the crate. Avoid crates with thin fabric at stress points.
Ventilation
Ventilation is critical in warm weather and enclosed spaces like cars. Look for crates with mesh panels on at least three sides, ideally four. The Feandrea 4-Door and Lesure XL both excel here with mesh on all four sides.
Mesh quality matters as much as quantity. Heavy-weight mesh resists puncturing better than thin mesh, which is important if your dog paws at the sides.
Door Configuration
One door works for basic indoor use. Two doors (typically top and front) add loading flexibility. Three doors let you access your dog from the side, which is useful in cars and tight spaces. Four doors provide maximum access but add weight and cost.
For travel, I recommend at least 2 doors. For car use specifically, 3 or 4 doors make positioning much easier.
Portability
Weight ranges from under 4 pounds (DONORO) to over 18 pounds (EliteField XXL). If you plan to carry the crate any distance, look for models with shoulder straps or backpack-style carry bags. The EliteField and Lesure both include carry bags.
Fold time matters too. Most crates fold flat in under a minute, but the pop-up spring-frame designs (DONORO, JESPET) are fastest to set up and pack down.
Soft Crate vs Wire Crate
Soft crates are lighter, more portable, and cozier than wire crates. They fold smaller, set up faster, and work better for travel. Wire crates are heavier, more durable, and better for escape artists and destructive dogs. Wire crates also provide better security for unsupervised use at home.
If your dog is crate-trained and calm, a soft crate is usually the better choice for travel and temporary use. If your dog chews, digs, or has escape attempts, stick with a wire or heavy-duty plastic crate.
Safety Advice for Soft Crates
Never leave a dog unattended in a soft crate for long periods. The fabric and mesh are not designed to contain a panicked dog, and determined chewers can break out in minutes. Soft crates are best for travel, supervised indoor use, and short-term containment.
In cars, always secure the crate to anchor points to prevent it from becoming a projectile in a sudden stop. Soft crates are not crash-tested containers, so they provide containment but not crash protection.
Avoid using soft crates in direct sun on hot days. The fabric can heat up quickly, and dogs cannot cool themselves efficiently in enclosed spaces. The top curtain on the EliteField helps with shade, but no soft crate is appropriate for hot car use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are soft-sided crates good for dogs?
Soft-sided crates are good for crate-trained, calm dogs who need a portable space for travel and supervised indoor use. They are lightweight, easy to set up, and cozier than wire crates. Soft crates are not suitable for destructive dogs, escape artists, or unsupervised long-term use.
What is the best soft-sided dog crate?
The EliteField 4-Door Aluminum Soft Dog Crate is the best overall pick thanks to its lightweight aluminum frame, 2-year warranty, 4-door design with top curtain, and included accessories. For value, the Amazon Basics Folding Soft Dog Crate is the top choice with over 19,000 reviews.
Is a soft crate or hard crate better?
Soft crates are better for travel, portability, and indoor comfort because they are lighter and fold smaller. Hard wire or plastic crates are better for home containment, destructive dogs, and escape artists because they are more durable and secure. The right choice depends on your dog’s temperament and your primary use case.
What is crate syndrome?
Crate syndrome refers to the anxiety and stress a dog experiences when confined to a crate for too long without proper training, exercise, or breaks. Symptoms include excessive barking, drooling, pacing, and attempts to escape. Prevention involves gradual crate training, adequate exercise, and limiting crate time to reasonable periods.
Can puppies use soft crates?
Puppies can use soft crates only after they have completed basic crate training and outgrown the chewing phase. Most puppies under 6 months old should not be left in soft crates unsupervised because they will chew through mesh and fabric. Wire crates with removable dividers are a better choice for young puppies.
Conclusion
The best soft sided dog crates make travel with your dog genuinely easier, whether you are running errands, taking hotel trips, or camping for the weekend. My testing confirmed that the right crate depends heavily on your dog’s size, temperament, and how you plan to use it.
For most buyers, the EliteField 4-Door Aluminum Soft Dog Crate is the best overall investment thanks to its lightweight frame, 2-year warranty, and complete accessory package. If you want maximum value, the Amazon Basics Folding Soft Dog Crate delivers reliable performance backed by over 19,000 customer reviews. On a tight budget, the DONORO Portable Pop Up crate covers the basics for under $40.
For giant breeds, the Ownpets 48-inch XXL and EliteField 54-inch are the only realistic options on this list. For car travel specifically, the PETSFIT adjustable crate solves the vehicle-fit problem better than anything else. No matter which crate you choose, remember that soft crates work best for crate-trained, calm dogs and are not a substitute for proper training or secure containment of destructive pets.
Take time to measure your dog and your vehicle before ordering, and always prioritize ventilation, frame quality, and zipper durability over price alone. The right crate will last years and make every trip with your dog more enjoyable.
