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Cage training can help you and your pet have more adventures together, providing a safe space for them to go wherever you go. But standard metal, plastic, and wooden crates can be bulky and difficult to transport. That’s where the soft dog crate comes into play. Made of lightweight materials, fabric dog crates are easier to pack, carry, and store — that’s why they’re named “travel crates.” They also tend to be more aesthetically pleasing and affordable.
We’ve rounded up the best soft crates for all dogs and all types of adventures, whether it’s camping, hiking, or just setting up a cozy den for your pet dog. yours at home.
Choose the best soft dog kennel for your student
Different styles of soft kennels can suit different needs — and different dog species. When choosing a canvas crate for your dog, here are a few things you need to consider:
- Ventilation—Many soft dog crates on the market have zippered mesh windows and doors, allowing plenty of air to circulate freely. However, some have more openings than others — something to consider if you’re choosing a floppy crate for outdoor activities and camping.
- Washability—One of the downsides of soft-faced dog crates is that they tend to be harder to clean than standard metal crates, which makes them a less functional choice for puppies and aggressive dogs. But many are removable and washable, while some are even broken and can be cleaned in their entirety.
- Comfortable material—An important benefit of fabric dog kennels is that they score well in the comfort department. Some go even further and include extra padding on the bottom or a layer of fluff barrel lining—A great addition for any dog, but especially for elderly puppies and dogs with mobility issues.
- Size—When choosing the size of a soft-faced dog kennel, you’ll want to make sure it’s spacious enough for your dog while still providing a cozy den-like experience. A general rule of thumb is to be wide enough for the dog to stand up and turn inside. You also need to be aware of the weight and make sure it corresponds to your dog.
Soft crates for dogs tend to work better for dogs that have been trained in cages and are less likely to kill it with their teeth and claws. It’s important to remember that no crate is 100% dog-proof, and confining your puppy will always require some level of supervision.
With that in mind, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite soft dog kennels in a variety of styles and sizes with plenty of variation in between — right down to pop-ups and larger frames. Read on to find the best soft-sided crate for your puppy.
The EliteField soft case is one of the most popular soft cases on the market, and after self-check the barrel, we can see why. It’s two inches wider and four inches taller than similarly sized canvas crates. Reviewers say the largest size provides plenty of room for large pups, including a 78-pound German Shepherd and a 111-pound Great Dane.
Three mesh doors and windows provide excellent ventilation, and the included carry bag makes it easy to keep your puppy’s belongings in one place when you’re on the go.
Main function:
- Available in five sizes and twenty colors
- Mesh top zipper opens for extra space
- Carrying case and fleece bed included
Good things are often small in size, especially when there are many options. The 2Pet folding soft kennel offers two options for smaller puppies: a 20-inch crate that fits pets up to 15 pounds, and a 24-inch size that can hold a 25-pound dog.
Innovative features include a full front zipper to keep your dog from chewing on it and external racks for water bottles and food containers.
Main function:
- Made of steel tube and covered with waterproof fabric
- Includes a waterproof pad and washable fleece padding
- An upper handle can be used to secure the trunk in the vehicle with a seat belt
Adventure awaits! Made for puppies outdoors, this durable fabric kennel is water, stain, and tear resistant. Mesh doors provide plenty of ventilation when camping and padded floors provide extra comfort after a long day of hiking and exploring. It even comes with stakes, making it a good choice for outdoor activities.
Main function:
- Available in two sizes and suitable for dogs up to 132 pounds
- Includes convenient poop pouch
- Side handles for easy transport
This pop-up soft-sided crate folds down and packs nicely into a slim carrying case, making it a good choice for pet parents who prioritize portability. Mesh windows take up the sides, making the interior less visible than in some bins, like the Elitefield. It’s a sleek, comfortable crate with thoughtful details like a large storage bag, non-slip bottom and soft padding. It runs a bit short, though — so be sure to check the height dimensions.
Main function:
- There are two sizes
- Velcro latch holds cushion in place
- Two mesh and one mesh side (some reviewers said they wish there was more ventilation)
Puppy need a lot of sleep, especially when you bring them home for the first time. Creating a cozy, relaxing place for them to rest is a must for their growth. With roll-down shades and a screen cover, this soft kennel helps create a luxurious space for your dog. Soft-sided crates aren’t usually the first choice for puppies, but this one is an exception; it’s broken so you can wash it off completely—a much-needed privilege in the puppy care department.
Main function:
- Available in sizes from small to XX-large
- Includes a free carrying bag
- Liquid and leakproof
Ideal for sweet seniors who may experience more aches and pains, this soft-sided crib offers extra comfort with a plush sherpa fleece padding. The mat has a water-resistant and washable finish with a foam inside that’s even lined with a zipper, providing double protection should any accident happen.
The frame is completely collapsible and the side clips hold everything together when folded.
Main function:
- There are three sizes
- Made of heavy duty polyester oxford weave
- Rounded corners protect the interior and floor of the car
How we choose soft dog crates
The dog crates here were selected based on a combination of our own hands-on testing, comprehensive review of customer reviews across multiple retail platforms, and interviews with experts. veterinary medicine. Our selections prioritize qualities like durability, portability, and comfort. We are also guided by our own experience of living and playing with our own much-loved and steadfast pets, who are never stingy with their feedback.
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