Does your dog treat their heavy, clunky metal crate like a jail cell rather than a cozy den? Many pet owners find that traditional wire crates are noisy, difficult to move, and take up way too much space in a small living room. If you are tired of struggling with cumbersome equipment every time you want to travel or rearrange your home, you are certainly not alone. Finding a crate that balances safety with portability can feel like a guessing game when you face endless online reviews and confusing feature lists.
Choosing the right soft-sided dog crate should be a simple way to improve your pup’s comfort, not a source of stress for you. These lightweight options offer a quiet, den-like retreat that makes your pet feel secure, whether you are on a road trip or just relaxing at home. However, not every fabric crate is built to last or designed for your specific dog’s habits.
In this post, we will break down exactly what you need to look for to find the perfect fit. We will explore the best materials, essential safety features, and top-rated models that actually hold up to daily use. By the end of this guide, you will have the confidence to pick a crate that keeps your furry friend happy and makes your life much easier. Let’s dive into our top picks and expert tips for choosing the best soft-sided crate for your pet.
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
- 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
- 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!
- Safe and Superior Design: Puppy playpen is composed of 600D Oxford cloth and scratch-resistant high-grade washable thick mesh which makes the cleaning easier. It is designed into a Spacious 4-panel design with protected seams and reinforced corners to ensure your pet's safety. Zippered door provides easy in/out access for your pet. Close the door to keep your pet safely inside.
- Easy to Assemble and Store: The Portable Pet Play Pen comes along with a convenient carrying case that can easily store your playpen. Follow the instructions,you can assemble it in just 30 seconds. And it's also easy to fold back flat when not in use. Our lightweight portable pet playpen can be used indoors, outdoors, traveling, camping, etc.
- Multiple Sizes of the Dog Playpen: Small-28.7x22.6x16.9 inches, suitable for small pets up to 10 lbs; Medium-31.7x24.2 x20.5 inches，suitable for pets up to 25 lbs; Large-35.8x28.7x22.8 inches，suitable for pets up to 45 lbs. Please Measure your Pets before purchase. All dimensions are measured manually, please allow deviation of 1 inch.
- Easy to Care: Pets can present some unique cleaning challenges, Love's cabin made sure that the dog playpen tent is easy to clean for your convenience.You can also put a blanket underneath, just wash the blanket when it gets dirty. Best for small animals such as a puppy, kitten, dog, cat, bunny rabbit, chicken, ferret, bearded dragon, and even a hamster.
- Dedicated Customer Service: Love's cabin Trademarked Products - NO risk shopping. Love's cabin strives to provide 1-Month return and replacement service & life-time free customer service - We want our customers to be 100% happy and satisfied!
- Space-saving Design: Garnpet collapsible dog crate is designed to save space when not in use, making it an ideal choice for pet owners who are looking for a pet crate that can be easily stored away.
- Portable and lightweight: Our soft dog crate is made with lightweight materials and comes with convenient handles, making it easy to carry with you on the go. Whether you’re traveling with your pet or simply need to move the crate from one room to another, Garnpet collapsible soft dog cage is the perfect solution.
- Stable Structure: The foldable crate is made with a sturdy steel frame and high-quality waterproof Oxford fabric, ensuring that your pet is safe and secure while inside. The mesh windows allow for ventilation, while the zippered door makes it easy to access your pet.
- Easy to clean: The fabric on this soft side dog kennel is waterproof and easy to clean, which is ideal for pet owners who want a low-maintenance solution. Simply wipe it down with a damp cloth or sponge, and it will be as good as new.
- Versatile: This dog crate can be used for a variety of purposes, from crate training your puppy to providing a safe and cozy space for your pet to rest. It’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, and the collapsible design means you can take it with you wherever you go.
The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Soft-Sided Dog Crate
Soft-sided dog crates are perfect for pet owners on the move. They are lightweight, portable, and easy to store. Unlike heavy metal crates, these fabric homes provide a cozy, den-like space for your pup. Use this guide to find the best option for your furry friend.
1. Key Features to Look For
When shopping, focus on convenience and safety. Look for a crate that folds down flat for easy transport. This feature saves space in your car or closet. Check for multiple mesh windows. Good airflow keeps your dog cool and comfortable. Sturdy zippers are also a must. You want zippers that do not snag or break easily. Finally, look for a crate with a removable, washable floor mat. This makes cleaning up accidents much easier.
2. Important Materials
Quality materials make a big difference. Most soft crates use a frame made of steel or plastic tubing. Steel frames offer more stability, while plastic is lighter. The fabric should be heavy-duty polyester or nylon. These materials resist tearing and are easy to wipe clean. The mesh panels should be reinforced. Strong mesh prevents your dog from clawing through the windows. Always choose materials that are non-toxic and breathable.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
- Improvement: Reinforced stitching at the corners adds strength. A water-resistant bottom prevents leaks from reaching your floor. Padded carrying handles make it easier to move the crate.
- Reduction: Thin fabric tears easily. Cheap plastic connectors on the frame can snap under pressure. Small zippers often fail after just a few uses. Avoid crates with loose threads or flimsy mesh.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Soft crates are best for calm, crate-trained dogs. They are ideal for road trips, camping, or visiting friends. You can set them up in seconds at a hotel or a pet-friendly office. However, they are not for chewers. A dog that likes to dig or bite will quickly destroy a soft-sided crate. Always supervise your pet during the first few uses. If your dog is anxious, a soft crate might not be the right choice. Use these crates for travel, not for long-term confinement at home.
10 Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are soft-sided crates safe for air travel?
A: Most airlines require hard-sided crates for cargo. Some allow soft crates in the cabin if they fit under the seat. Always check your airline’s specific rules first.
Q: Can I put a puppy in a soft crate?
A: Yes, but be careful. Puppies often chew. If your puppy bites everything, they might damage the fabric or swallow pieces.
Q: How do I clean the crate?
A: Wipe the fabric with a damp cloth and mild soap. Many crates feature removable, machine-washable covers.
Q: Will my dog escape?
A: A calm, trained dog will stay inside. However, a determined dog can push through the zippers or tear the mesh.
Q: How do I choose the right size?
A: Your dog should be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Measure your dog from nose to tail and floor to top of the head.
Q: Are these crates waterproof?
A: Most are water-resistant. The bottom usually protects against small spills, but they are not fully waterproof.
Q: Can I leave my dog in the crate all day?
A: No. Soft crates are for travel and short-term use. They do not offer the same security as a metal crate.
Q: Do they provide enough ventilation?
A: Yes. Most have large mesh windows on all sides to ensure plenty of fresh air.
Q: Are they heavy?
A: No, they are very lightweight. This makes them perfect for people who need to carry them long distances.
Q: What if the zipper breaks?
A: Check the warranty. Many brands offer replacements for faulty parts. If not, a local tailor might be able to fix it.