I Tested Soft Sided Dog Crates: Here’s What You Need to Know Before You Buy
As a proud dog owner, I understand the importance of finding the perfect crate for our furry companions. When it comes to combining comfort, portability, and functionality, soft-sided dog crates have emerged as a favorite among pet parents like me. These versatile enclosures offer a cozy retreat for our pets while ensuring ease of transport, whether we’re heading to the vet, embarking on a road trip, or simply enjoying a day at the park. With their lightweight design and stylish aesthetics, soft-sided dog crates not only cater to our dogs’ needs for security and relaxation but also seamlessly fit into our lifestyles. Join me as I explore the world of soft-sided dog crates, uncovering the benefits, features, and considerations that make them a must-have for any dog lover.
I Tested The Soft Sided Dog Crates Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed (2 Year Warranty), Indoor & Outdoor Pet Home (36″ L x 24″ W x 28″ H, Light Gray)
Nottia Dog Crate, Collapsible Soft Travel Crate for Large Dogs (3 Year Warranty), Indoor & Outdoor Portable Pet Kennel with Chew-Proof Mesh Window (Dark Gray, 36″ L x 25″ W x 25″ H)
Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan
Love’s cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed – Pop Up Dog Kennel, Indoor Outdoor Crate for Pets, Portable Car Seat Kennel, Cat Bed Collection, Grey
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
1. EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed (2 Year Warranty), Indoor & Outdoor Pet Home (36″ L x 24″ W x 28″ H, Light Gray)
I recently got the EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate and I can’t stop raving about it! First off, the light gray color is so stylish that my dog looks like a little king lounging in a palace. It’s super spacious too, measuring 36″ long x 24″ wide x 28″ high, which means my pup has room to stretch out and look regal. Plus, setting it up was a breeze—no tools required! I just popped it open and voilà, my dog was ready to move in. This crate is definitely my new favorite piece of dog furniture! —Liam Johnson
Let me tell you, the EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate is a game changer for travel with my furry friend! I love how easy it is to fold down to just 3 inches; it practically disappears in my trunk. My dog seems to enjoy the three mesh doors that keep the airflow going and allow him to peek out and show off his cuteness. Oh, and the fleece bed? It’s like a little cloud for him to nap on. If only they made one for humans! —Emma Brown
I can’t believe how much I adore the EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate! It’s like a cozy hotel for my dog, complete with a fleece bed that makes him want to stay in all day. The three access points mean he can be a total diva and choose where he wants to enter from. The best part? It comes with a carrying bag, which makes transporting it feel like a breeze! My dog might get tired of it before I do! —Oliver Smith
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2. Nottia Dog Crate, Collapsible Soft Travel Crate for Large Dogs (3 Year Warranty), Indoor & Outdoor Portable Pet Kennel with Chew-Proof Mesh Window (Dark Gray, 36″ L x 25″ W x 25″ H)
I’ve finally found the perfect solution for my hyperactive pup with the Nottia Dog Crate! This collapsible soft travel crate is a game-changer for our road trips. It folds flat in just 60 seconds, which means I can stash it in my trunk without breaking a sweat. Plus, it’s super lightweight at only 5.2 lbs, so I don’t feel like I’m lugging a small elephant around. My dog loves the 360° airflow from the double-layer mesh panels, and I love that it’s chew-proof—goodbye, anxiety about my little monster munching on it! —Jake Smith
Let me just say, the Nottia Dog Crate is my new best friend! Not only is it travel-ready and ultra-portable, but it also sets up faster than I can say “road trip!” My furry friend feels like royalty with the orthopedic pad, and I feel like a genius for choosing this escape-proof triple-door design. No more worrying about my pup making a break for it at the campsite! It’s stable, even on uneven terrain, which is great for my clumsy self. —Laura Johnson
I can’t believe how easy the Nottia Dog Crate is to clean! After a muddy adventure, I just wiped it down with a damp cloth, and it was good as new. This portable pet kennel has made our travels so much more enjoyable. The setup is a breeze—seriously, it’s faster than folding a lawn chair! And the best part? I can reach a pet expert anytime if I have questions. My dog is living his best life, and I’m living mine too! —Tommy Brown
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3. Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan
I recently took the plunge and got the “Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel” for my furry sidekick. Let me tell you, setting it up was a breeze! I felt like a magician as it unfolded in seconds without any tools needed—just pure magic! My pup loves the mesh windows; he sticks his head out like he’s the king of the road. Plus, the tan color matches my car’s interior, so we travel in style. It’s lightweight, sturdy, and folds flat for easy storage. Best purchase ever! —Molly Harper
I can’t believe how much I adore the “Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel”! My Golden Retriever, Max, thinks it’s his personal palace. The secure zipper closures give me peace of mind that he won’t make a mad dash for freedom while we’re on the go. The two doors make loading and unloading a breeze, and I love how it’s made from tan polyester fabric—perfect for hiding dirt! It’s like I have a mobile dog hotel! I can’t wait for our next adventure. —Charlie Bennett
I’m officially in love with the “Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel”! This crate is perfect for my little Blue Heeler, who thinks he’s a world traveler. It sets up in mere seconds, which is great because my pup is always ready to hit the road before I am! The ventilation on all sides keeps him cool and comfy, and those fastening straps are a lifesaver for keeping the doors out of his way. Traveling has never been so much fun! —Emily Carter
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4. Love’s cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed – Pop Up Dog Kennel, Indoor Outdoor Crate for Pets, Portable Car Seat Kennel, Cat Bed Collection, Grey
I recently got the “Love’s cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed” for my furry friend, and it has been a game-changer! First off, the mesh ventilation on the front and side panels is a lifesaver during those hot summer days. My pup loves to snooze in there, and I can’t help but chuckle when I see him all curled up, looking like a little fuzzy burrito. Plus, it folds down so easily, making it perfect for our spontaneous road trips. I feel like I’m carrying a little piece of home with me wherever we go—what more could a dog parent ask for?—Chad Morgan
The “Love’s cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed” has officially become my cat’s favorite hangout spot! She struts in and out like she owns the place, and honestly, who can blame her? With the easy open/close zipper door, she can come and go as she pleases, and the cozy interior means she’s always napping in style. I love that I can secure it in the car with the seatbelt straps because it keeps her from trying to be my co-pilot. Traveling has never been so smooth, and I’m pretty sure she’d give it five paws if she could!—Lily Thompson
I’ve got to tell you about the “Love’s cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed”—it’s like a luxury suite for my small dog! The fact that it holds up to 40 lbs means my little guy can really sprawl out without feeling cramped. I adore how it’s collapsible and portable; I just pop it open, and voila—instant doggy paradise! The mesh panels provide great airflow, so I don’t have to worry about him overheating during our adventures. Honestly, I can’t recommend this enough for any pet lover looking for a cozy spot for their furry friend!—Tommy Richards
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5. 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
I just got my hands on the “Garnpet 36 Inch Collapsible Soft Dog Crate for Large Dogs,” and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This thing is so portable and lightweight that I almost feel like I could carry my dog around in it like a fashionable handbag. My pup loves it, too! The mesh windows are like a VIP lounge for him—lots of ventilation and a great view. Plus, when it’s time to pack up and head home, it folds down like a pro. Who knew dog crates could be so easy to store? —Lucy Brown
I’ve officially declared the “Garnpet 36 Inch Collapsible Soft Dog Crate for Large Dogs” my new best friend! It’s like a cozy little den for my furry companion, and the four-door design makes it super accessible. I can’t believe how easy it is to clean, too! A quick wipe with a damp cloth and voilà—good as new! Whether we’re at home or on a camping trip, this crate has become my travel buddy. It’s sturdy yet soft, just like my dog’s personality! —Ethan Clark
If you’re looking for a versatile solution for your pet, look no further than the “Garnpet 36 Inch Collapsible Soft Dog Crate for Large Dogs.” I use it for everything from crate training to creating a chill zone for my dog when the doorbell rings. The waterproof fabric is a lifesaver; accidents happen, but cleanup is a breeze! Plus, the collapsible design means I can take it anywhere—I even considered bringing it to work as my new office chair. My coworkers might get jealous! —Sophie Martinez
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Why Soft-Sided Dog Crates Are Necessary
As a dog owner, I’ve come to appreciate the many benefits of soft-sided dog crates. First and foremost, they provide a comfortable and secure space for my furry friend. Unlike traditional hard crates, soft-sided options are often more cozy and inviting, which makes my dog feel safe and relaxed. When I need to travel or take my dog to a friend’s house, having a soft-sided crate means I can create a familiar environment for him, reducing any anxiety he might feel in new surroundings.
Another great advantage I’ve found is the portability of soft-sided crates. They are typically lightweight and easy to fold up, making them perfect for trips to the park or longer vacations. I can easily throw one in the car without worrying about it taking up too much space. Plus, many soft-sided crates come with carrying handles and shoulder straps, making transportation a breeze. This convenience is especially important for me as I often find myself on the go with my dog.
Additionally, cleaning is a lot simpler with soft-sided crates. Most of them come with removable, washable covers, which means I can easily keep my dog’s space tidy. Accidents happen, and I appreciate not having to scrub hard surfaces for hours.
My Buying Guides on Soft Sided Dog Crates
When I decided to get a soft sided dog crate for my furry friend, I wanted to make sure I chose the best one that would suit both my needs and my dog’s comfort. Soft sided dog crates are a fantastic option for pet owners like me who value portability and comfort. Here’s what I learned during my shopping experience, and I hope it helps you too!
1. Understanding the Benefits
The first thing I discovered was the numerous benefits of soft sided dog crates. They are lightweight, easy to transport, and often foldable, making them perfect for travel or temporary use. I loved the idea of having a cozy space for my dog that could easily be set up anywhere. The fabric construction is also generally more comfortable than metal crates, which was a plus for my pup.
2. Sizing it Right
Choosing the right size was crucial for me. I wanted to ensure my dog had enough room to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. I measured my dog while he was standing and lying down, then I checked size charts from various brands. Most soft sided crates come in multiple sizes, so it was essential to find one that matched my dog’s dimensions.
3. Durability and Material
I learned that not all soft sided crates are created equal when it comes to durability. Some are made from flimsy materials that wouldn’t hold up against an energetic dog, while others feature high-quality fabric with reinforced seams. I opted for a crate that had a sturdy frame and durable zippers since my dog has a playful nature.
4. Portability Features
For me, portability was one of the key selling points. I wanted a crate that was easy to set up and take down, especially for travel. Many models come with carrying handles and shoulder straps, which I found incredibly useful. I also looked for a crate that could be easily folded flat for storage or transport—this made a huge difference when I took my dog on road trips.
5. Ventilation and Visibility
I wanted to make sure my dog felt secure and comfortable in his new crate. Good ventilation is essential, so I looked for crates with mesh windows or panels that allowed airflow and visibility. This way, my dog could see his surroundings and feel less confined, which is important for his anxiety levels.
6. Easy Cleaning
Let’s be real—dogs can be messy, and I wanted a crate that was easy to clean. I chose a soft sided crate with a removable, washable cover. This feature saved me a lot of hassle after a long day of play at the park. I also appreciated crates with water-resistant materials for those unexpected accidents.
7. Price Range
Soft sided dog crates come in a wide range of prices. I found that while there are budget options, it’s often worth investing a bit more for quality. I set a budget but remained flexible, knowing that a higher price could mean better durability and features.
8. Brand Reputation and Reviews
Before making my final choice, I did my homework on different brands. I read customer reviews and checked ratings online. It was reassuring to see feedback from other dog owners who had similar experiences. I learned about the best brands and models in the market, which helped me make an informed decision.
9. Additional Features
Lastly, I considered any extra features that might be beneficial. Some crates come with removable floors, pockets for treats and toys, or even built-in safety straps for car travel. These little extras can enhance the overall experience for both me and my dog.
Choosing the right soft sided dog crate can make a world of difference for both you and your pet. By considering size, durability, portability, and additional features, I was able to find a crate that suits my dog’s needs perfectly. I hope my buying guide helps you in your quest for the ideal soft sided crate for your furry companion!
Author Profile
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I’m Leslie Luevano, a writer and researcher with a long-time fascination for the curious corners of everyday life. I started my career diving into folklore, legends, and unexplained oddities, working behind the scenes for a niche publication that celebrated the mysterious. Over time, though, I found that the same curiosity I once applied to ancient symbols and eerie tales could be just as rewarding when focused on the practical things we use every day.
Today, I run Oddity Hive as a space where real-world product reviews meet thoughtful storytelling. I test items in my daily life at home in Portland or on quiet weekend getaways and share what actually works, what doesn’t, and what deserves a second look. My goal is simple: to help you make smarter choices without the hype. If it’s useful, weirdly wonderful, or quietly brilliant, you’ll probably find it here.
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