Best Soft-Sided Dog Crates of 2026
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Soft-sided dog crates are a popular option for pet owners who prioritize comfort and convenience. These crates are made of lightweight materials, such as nylon or mesh, and are designed to be easily collapsible for storage or transportation. They offer a cozy and secure space for dogs to relax, sleep, or travel in. Soft-sided crates come in various sizes to accommodate different breeds and can be used for indoor or outdoor settings. Some models even feature additional pockets or compartments for storing pet supplies. Overall, soft-sided dog crates provide a practical and comfortable solution for pet owners on-the-go.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Soft-Sided Dog Crates
Amazon Basics Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel
The Amazon Basics Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel is a great solution for pet owners who need a portable and easy-to-use dog crate. It features two doors and mesh windows on all four sides to provide ventilation. The crate is made from durable PVC frame and polyester fabric, and can be set up in seconds with no tools required. The crate is also easy to transport and store, as it can be folded flat. It is recommended for medium-sized breeds and can also be used for cats and kittens.
Amazon Basics Collapsible Dog Kennel
The Amazon Basics Dog Kennel is a soft-sided crate designed to keep your furry friend safe and comfortable while traveling. Made of tan polyester fabric and a lightweight PVC frame, this XL dog crate is both durable and easy to set up. With no tools required, it can be assembled in seconds and folds flat for convenient portability and storage. The kennel features two doors, one on the top and one on the front, allowing for easy loading and unloading. It also has secure zipper closures and fastening straps to keep the doors rolled up and out of the way when needed. The mesh windows and front door provide ventilation on all four sides, ensuring your pet stays cool and comfortable. Suitable for large breed dogs weighing between 91-110 pounds, such as Great Danes and Berneses, this crate is perfect for crate-trained dogs. Dimensions of the kennel are 42 x 31 x 31 inches (LxWxH).
ZOMISIA 36 Inch Collapsible Dog Crate
The ZOMISIA Collapsible Dog Crate is designed for pet owners who prioritize convenience and comfort. Its foldable design makes it easy to transport and store, whether at home or on the go. The sturdy construction, made from high-quality materials, ensures durability while remaining lightweight. Good ventilation is provided through three mesh windows, allowing for excellent airflow and visibility, keeping your pet comfortable and secure. Additionally, the built-in safety leash and plush pad enhance your dog's safety and relaxation, making this crate a practical choice for any dog owner.
ZOMISIA 30 Inch Collapsible Dog Crate
The ZOMISIA Foldable Dog Crate is designed to make travel and storage easy with its foldable structure and handy carry handle, so you can quickly set it up or pack it away wherever you go. Its sturdy frame is built from strong iron pipes and durable 600D Oxford fabric, which is both lightweight and tough, ensuring long-lasting use. The crate features three mesh windows that provide excellent airflow, keeping your pet cool and comfortable while allowing you to keep an eye on them. Inside, a soft plush pad offers a cozy spot to relax, and a built-in safety leash helps keep your dog secure. This crate combines convenience and comfort for both you and your pet.
Amazon Basics 2-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Folding Travel Crate Dog Kennel
The Amazon Basics 2-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Folding Travel Crate Dog Kennel is a comfortable and secure crate that keeps dogs safe while traveling. This soft-sided crate is made of tan polyester fabric and a lightweight PVC frame, and it is easy to set up in seconds without any tools. It folds flat for convenient portability and storage. With two doors (top and front), secure zipper closures, and fastening straps to keep unzipped rolled-up doors in place, this crate is suitable for large breed dogs (76-90 pounds) like Boxers and German Shepherds that are crate-trained. Additionally, the mesh windows and front door provide ventilation on all four sides.
Pawtners 38" Foldable Soft Sided Dog Crate
The Pawtners Foldable Dog Crate is designed to make travel and storage easy for you and comfortable for your dog. Its foldable design lets you collapse it flat in less than a minute, so you can carry it or store it without hassle. The breathable mesh sides provide excellent airflow, keeping your pet cool and relaxed while allowing you to watch them from all angles. Made from durable, high-quality fabric, this crate is built to last, whether you're using it daily or on the road. Plus, the soft fabric creates a cozy, safe space your dog will appreciate during rest or play.
DONORO Portable Dog Kennels and Crates
Ensure your pet's safety with this water-resistant portable dog kennel that features protected seams, reinforced corners and three doors for easy access. The cage is easy to fold and unfold and requires no assembly, making it perfect for indoor and outdoor use, including camping and car travel. It's suitable for small and medium-sized dogs and cats, and comes with a washable and comfortable pad. Simply compare its dimensions with your current kennel to choose the right size.
Ashfield & Harkness Collapsible Soft Dog Crate 36"
The Ashfield & Harkness Soft Crate offers a cozy space for your dog with its soft sherpa mat and breathable mesh windows that keep your pet comfortable and well-ventilated. Its sturdy steel frame and strong stitching provide durability, so you can trust it for many trips and adventures. This crate is designed to fold down quickly and easily, making it perfect for travel or storage when not in use. Plus, the waterproof material helps you keep the crate clean and hygienic, while the removable mat makes maintenance simple. Overall, this crate combines comfort, durability, and convenience for pet owners on the go.
Beatrice Home Fashions Portable Pop Up Pet Crate
The Beatrice Pop Up Crate is perfect for pet owners who travel, camp, or hike with their small to medium pets. Its soft sides and mesh windows provide good airflow and allow your pet to see outside, keeping them comfortable and calm. You’ll find it easy to set up since it quickly pops open and folds down flat for storage. Plus, it comes with a handy pouch, making it simple to carry with your backpack or luggage. This crate offers a comfortable, portable space for your pet whether you’re indoors or outdoors.
JESPET Soft Dog Crate with Fleece Mat
The JESPET Soft Dog Crate offers a roomy and comfortable space for your pet, measuring slightly larger than typical 36" crates, which is great if you have a larger dog up to 70 lbs. Made from durable 600D Oxford fabric with strong steel framing, this crate is both sturdy and lightweight, making it perfect for travel and outdoor use. It features three mesh doors on the top, front, and side, providing excellent ventilation and easy access to your pet, helping keep them cool and comfortable. Plus, it comes with a soft fleece bed that offers a cozy spot for your dog or cat, making it a convenient and comfy travel kennel you can carry anywhere with its adjustable strap.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do soft-sided dog crates work?
Soft-sided dog crates are suitable for smaller and calmer dogs. However, they may not be the best choice for more active, aggressive, or crafty dogs as they can potentially escape from these crates. Additionally, soft-sided crates may not provide the necessary safety for use in cars.
2. Is a soft crate better?
Soft crates offer the advantage of being lightweight and easy to set up and break down. They also tend to fold flatter compared to collapsible wire crates. These factors make soft crates a great choice for dog owners who require portability and frequent assembly of the crate.
3. Do dogs prefer open or closed crates?
Dogs are den animals and naturally seek out enclosed and dark spaces for security. They prefer the seclusion and privacy of closed crates when they are scared or need rest.
4. Should dogs sit up straight in crate?
In a dog crate, your dog should be able to sit and stand at full height, turn around, stretch out, and lie down comfortably in a natural position. When choosing a crate, consider the size your dog will need when they are fully grown, especially for puppies.
5. Is it better for a dog crate to be too big or too small?
A dog crate should not have too much additional space. Dogs prefer a small space that feels secure and safe. Having a crate that is too big may not provide the desired cozy environment for your dog.
6. Is it OK for a dog to sleep in a crate every night?
It is not recommended to leave your dog in a crate for extended periods of time. Dogs need regular exercise and human interaction. Keeping a dog crated all day and night can lead to depression or anxiety. It's important to provide them with proper physical and mental stimulation.
7. Should I put anything in my dog's crate at night?
It is advisable to include good bedding in your dog's crate. Providing comfortable bedding helps your dog view the crate as a secure and relaxing space where they can rest and retreat when overstimulated. It adds to their comfort and helps create a positive association with the crate.
During our soft-sided dog crate research, we found 25 soft-sided dog crate products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 258,951 customer reviews through our big data system to write the soft-sided dog crates list. We found that most customers choose soft-sided dog crates with an average price of $73.89.
The soft-sided dog crates are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of soft-sided dog crates, including ZOMISIA, Pawtners, DONORO, Asfield & Harkness, Beatrice Home Fashions. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Janie Foster is a writer & pet blogger from Los Angeles, she enjoys living with her two cats and three dogs. She owned her first dog 10 years ago and then started her personal blog to record her dog's daily life. Throughout her personal life, she has developed specialized knowledge in pet care, pet nutrition, feeding habits, and more.