The soft crate is an essential accessory for many dog owners. It makes travel and potty training easier, and bedtime more comfortable. But not all dog crates are created equal. You will need to consider size, material, and design, but also optional features such as the fabric’s water resistance and expandable panels.

To help you find the rare gem that will please your pooch as much as your wallet, we’ve reviewed the options available on the market and compiled a list of the best choices based on price, material, portability, design, and extra features.

Check out our top pick of the best soft dog crates of this year below!

A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites (2024 Update)

The 9 Best Soft Dog Crates

1. Amazon Basics Folding Portable Soft Pet Dog Crate Carrier Kennel – Best Overall

AmazonBasics Folding Portable Soft Pet Dog Crate combines the quality, design, durability, fair price, and essential features of a great soft dog crate. That’s why it ranked at the top of the list. This soft dog crate can be assembled in no time, is easy to transport, and folds completely for hassle-free storage when your pup isn’t using it. It has two entrances, one of which is on the top, which is very practical. Mesh windows allow air to circulate while keeping your dog safe. The small integrated pockets are also convenient for carrying their favorite toys!

This soft dog crate is not perfect, however: the zippers are less durable, and the fabric of the mesh panels will not withstand the repeated onslaught of the sharp teeth and claws of an overly vigorous pup.

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2. Frisco Indoor & Outdoor Soft-Sided Dog Crate – Best Value

Frisco Indoor & Outdoor Soft-Sided Dog Crate is a very affordable option if you have a small or medium dog that is not too rowdy. Although the mesh paneling and the three doors offer good ventilation and easy entry and exit, the fabric is not as resistant as the manufacturer claims.

Indeed, an agitated, anxious, or clever dog can manage to escape, either by chewing the fabric or by sliding the zippers with his paw. But if you spend time getting them acclimated to the new crate, they will hopefully start to feel more comfortable. You can then bring your pooch camping or to a hotel with this versatile option without worrying that they will constantly escape.

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3. EliteField 4-Door Soft-Sided Dog Crate – Premium Choice

The EliteField Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate is pricey, but roomy, well-made, and versatile. It comes with a range of practical accessories, such as curtains, straps, a transport bag, and a fleece pad. This makes it a terrific option for dog owners who enjoy traveling with their pets. And unlike most crates, this one comes with four zippered doors to give your dog multiple in and out options. This crate also provides all the visibility and ventilation needed.

But there is one big downside: the door zippers are very easy to move, even for a dog’s paw. Thus, it could become a real nuisance when you’re trying to house train your pup who might attempt to get out of the crate whenever they want!

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4. Firstrax Noz2Noz Sof-Krate

The Firstrax Noz2Noz Sof-Krate is available in different sizes to fit most breeds. This easy-to-carry soft crate assembles in seconds and provides a cozy and comfortable place for your pooch. The steel frame is very sturdy, and the reinforced, rounded corners protect your vehicle’s interior. Plus, the mesh windows allow for maximum airflow. The base is water-resistant and machine washable, but this soft crate is not waterproof.

Noz2Noz Sof-Krate also includes a mesh front, side doors, and a top entrance. We were pleased to find zippers on the front and side access doors, but the zippers seem poorly designed and tend to break easily. Also, it doesn’t include an outer travel case, which makes it susceptible to damage during travel.

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5. DogGoods Do Good Foldable Travel Dog Crate

If your pup weighs over 35 pounds, the DogGoods Do Good Foldable Travel Crate won’t let you down. This soft-sided crate folds up easily and has a modern design, a sturdy iron frame, and two doors. In addition, it is lightweight and has washable and water-resistant padding. The downside is, that it is not indestructible so it may not withstand chewers. It also has a steep price.

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6. Firstrax Petnation Port-A-Crate E Series

Petnation Port-a-Crate is also made by Firstrax, so you know you are buying from a good, reputable brand. This soft crate is reasonably priced and contains a front door and a top entrance. The mesh side windows are pretty small, so this might not be the best option if your pup likes to check out his surroundings. But it may be a good choice for anxious doggies, as they won’t be able to tell when you’re taking them to the vet!

This crate also features rounded corners, a sturdy steel frame, and a front door with a locking mechanism. However, just like the Noz2Noz Sof-Krate, the zippers may let you down. But overall, this easy-to-set-up crate is great for quick road trips. Keep in mind, that this crate may only be suitable for fully potty-trained dogs because the soft bottom will retain the smell of urine.

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7. Jespet 3-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate

The Jespet 3-Door soft dog crate has three entrance doors for easy access to your dog, which also gives him good ventilation. It is made of strong steel tubing while the cover is washable and made of mesh fabric. It also includes a fleece bed and adjustable shoulder straps for added comfort and convenience. All of these characteristics are similar to those of its competitors.

On the other hand, the mesh fabric seems less resistant to the claws and teeth of anxious doggies who want to escape from their crate. The zippers may also break easily, and this crate doesn’t come with a buckle to attach to a seat belt. These drawbacks make the Jespet a slightly less appealing option for dog owners who travel frequently, or for puppies that chew on everything in their path.

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8. Go Pet Club Soft-Sided Dog Crate

The Go Pet Club Soft-Sided Dog Crate isn’t the sleekest design, but it gets the job done with dogs that aren’t too energetic. One of the most common complaints is that a destructive or determined dog may be able to force its way out of this crate. In addition, the frame is made of PVC and not steel, which makes it less durable. It can be folded up to two inches, which makes transport super easy and convenient. In short, this option is ideal if your less active pup wants to take a little snooze on the soft fleece pad. It is included!

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9. Etna Pop-Open Soft-Sided Dog Crate

The Etna Pop-Open Soft-Sided Dog Crate is roomy enough for small to medium-sized dogs to fit comfortably. It has mesh panels on three sides but only one door and no entrance on the top. This can make it a less convenient option when you want to put your pooch in it. The rather simple design of this crate, and the fact that it doesn’t come with other accessories, may explain its low price.

It is well suited for short outings, but not so much for long car trips or frequent transport.

Buyers Guide: Choosing the Best Soft Dog Crate

What to Look for in a Soft Dog Crate?

Before getting a soft dog crate, you should ask yourself a few questions. This approach will allow you to better define your needs and those of your pup, and ultimately set a coherent budget. It is also a good way to limit the risk of being disappointed by a product that is not really suitable for your dog. The questions below are good ones to ask yourself before you make a decision on a crate.

How Big Is Your Dog? How Does He Behave?

The size and temperament of your dog are obviously key parameters. They play a fundamental role in the choice of the soft crate. Weighing and measuring your pet correctly will ensure that the crate will be the right size, and won’t restrict their movement. As a rough guide, your pup should be able to lay down, sit up, turn around easily, and stand up comfortably (especially if you’re looking for a soft dog crate for your home).

In What Situations Are You Planning to Use the Soft Dog Crate?

If you travel in the car with your dog often, make sure the soft crate is correctly secured in the back seat. Consider a metal cage if you are planning a long road trip. It might be the safest option. In any case, keep in mind that dogs should always be restrained in the car, whether with a travel crate, dog car harness, or doggy seatbelt.

Have You Considered Your Dog’s Growth?

If you adopt a puppy, consider your options regarding the size of his crate. You could:

Important Things to Consider When Buying a Soft Crate for Dogs

To sort out the options that caught your eye, consider these important features:

Dimensions

The crate should be bigger than your dog, giving him ample room to move around. This rule is very simple: if your pup can’t turn around, don’t buy it. His movements should not be restricted. This may help prevent your dog from becoming anxious.

Besides, manufacturers often indicate a maximum or recommended weight. It is the second indicator that is the most reliable. No mystery here: just weigh your dog and scrupulously respect the recommendations!

Doors

Opening and Closing System

For soft dog crates, zippers are standard. They are sometimes also equipped with Velcro strips to keep the doors open.

Ease of Transport

A soft dog crate should be easy to take with you. Almost all models are folding. It is not uncommon for a handle to be provided as well.

Comfort

To feel comfortable and safe, your dog needs two things: to be able to breathe easily and to see around him. Look for soft crates that have doors and windows in mesh fabric, which allows for air renewal and creates visibility.

Besides, you can increase your pet’s comfort level by adding an extra cozy cushion, if it is not already included.

Ease of Cleaning

The majority of soft crates have a cover that can be cleaned separately in your washing machine.

How to Get Your Dog Used to His New Soft Crate?

If you’re only using the crate to take your dog to the vet, this may create a negative experience. Therefore, you should use positive reinforcement so that your pooch comes to see his crate as a reassuring and comfortable place:

Don’t hesitate to use the crate to take your dog to fun places, such as the dog park. He will start to associate it with positive experiences.

Conclusion

In short, before buying a soft crate for your dog, consider his temperament and size. This is essentially what will determine whether or not you should invest in a soft dog crate made with more durable material, or a different type. AmazonBasics and EliteField 4-Door, are great options, but they aren’t indestructible.

Whatever you choose, getting your dog acquainted with their new crate is important. You want them to feel comfortable and safe. Just remember, if a soft crate doesn’t work, there are other options available for your canine friend!

I exceptionally used Amazon for the first item because this crate is really awesome but couldn’t be found on Chewy (I had one for my sweet dog and it lasted for years!)

See also:

• 10 Best Dog Brushes for Shedding – Reviews & Top Picks
• 10 Best Dog Cooling Mats – Reviews & Top Picks
• Why Do Dogs Pee on Tires? Dog Behavior Explained

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Featured Image Credit: ALPA PROD, Shutterstock