Crate training has become a well-accepted training system for puppies in the home. Some dogs graduate to a basket as they grow up. However, one of the best soft crates for dogs are be an ideal solution for canines of all ages.
For example, you want to take your pooch to stay in a B&B, and need to make sure he doesn’t sleep on the bed. Or you’re heading to a point-to-point and during the picnic, your dog will be best confined in your car boot in a crate (with the hatchgate open) or even on the grass beside you, rather than stealing your pork pies.
A soft crate is more than just a dog carrier. It should be large enough for your pet to be comfortable beyond a quick trip to the vet. Traditional metal dog crates are great in the home, but they aren’t often collapsible and so are impractical while on the move.
Portable, soft dog crates are the answer. Lightweight and easily packed up and folded away, these crates can be transported and assembled quickly whenever required.
Best soft crates for dogs: what’s the choice?
Petsfit Dog Crate
Sizes: S–XL
Colours: Black, grey or khaki
Reason to buy: Machine washable mat and lockable zips
This durable 600D Oxford fabric crate feature a sturdy frame that folds and out locks in place easily to solidify the structure of this crate. There is breathable mesh all round to help keep your dog cool.
The crate has two zip-open doors and an opening at the top, so your pooch is easily accessible while inside the crate. The zip pullers are also lockable, so your poock won’t be able to push his way out the crate.
The soft, polyfoam fleece-covered floor mat makes the crate comfy and cosy. The mat is removable and machine washable, too, so you’ll be able to keep your pet’s sleeping spot clean and sweet-smelling with minimal effort.
The crate collapses down flat with Velcro straps inside to hold everything in place, making it very easy to store and transport.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk
In the US? View now at amazon.com
Amazon Basics Folding Dog Crate
Sizes: S –L
Colours: Beige or black
Reason to buy: Lightweight frame to retain shape
This is a really popular soft crate with very positive reviews. It has zippable front and top doors, with fastening straps for easy access, and a mesh fabric flap that can be rolled up and secured.
It is soft, yet strong, with a lightweight PVC frame, and hand-washable, durable, water-resistant heavy-duty polyester fabric over the top, bottom and sides.
It comes with mesh-fabric windows on three sides for good ventilation. Can be used at home, in the car or out on trips. Quick to set up and folds flat for easy transport and compact storage.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk
In the US? View now at amazon.com
Petsfit Pop Up Soft Crate
Sizes: M, L
Colours: Black or grey
Reason to buy: No assembly required – just pops up
A lightweight crate made from 600D Oxford fabric for durability. Quick and easy to fold up and carry around in its storage back.
It has two doors with roll-up mesh flaps, and a top window to provide good ventilation and enable your dog to see out easily. The fleece mat can be removed and machine-washed. There is a large pocket at the back for treat and essentials.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk
In the US? View now at amazon.com
Henry Wag Folding Fabric Dog Crate
Sizes: S–L
Colour: Grey
Reason to buy: Comes with carry case and can be pegged into the ground
This folding travel crate is designed for use both while travelling or in the home. It is lightweight and collapsible, and comes with a zip mesh access door, as well as zip assembly with no spare parts required.
The inner floor pad is washable and comes with foam insulation.
The crate has its own carry case and ground pegs if you want to keep your dog enclosed outdoors – handy at a picnic to keep those sausages safe!
In the UK? View at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or petsandfriends.co.uk
All For Paws Dog Crate
Sizes: M–XL
Colours: Grey
Reason to buy: Four roll-up sides, folds completely flat with carry handle
This foldable and portable crate is easy to assemble within a minute without tools, and folds flat for easy transport and compact storage. For use in the home, outdoors and in the car.
The crate has four big mesh windows which can be rolled up for sunlight and air. There is also an accessory pocket on the side to carry supplies.
In the UK? View at amazon.co.uk
How to choose the best soft dog crate
Firstly, you want to think about your dog’s routine and lifestyle. Are you more likely to use a soft dog crate at home, perhaps in the garden or to secure him in the house temporarily, or do you need one for going out and about often? If portability is the key, look for a soft crate that collapses easily, has useful carrying handles and is lightweight.
Take into account whether your dog might challenge the structural integrity of the crate. If you think this could be an issue, look for one with a sturdy, lock-in-place frame.
Another important aspect to consider would be whether the floor pad is easily washable and buying a soft crate to allow for growing room if your pup is still maturing.
Finally, if your dog loves to chew his basket or bed, bear in mind a soft crate isn’t ideal and is best used just for short periods. In the meantime, why not take a look at these best dog beds for chewers, or our advice on how to stop your dog chewing his bed.
You may also enjoy reading…
Best dog crates: a safe haven for the home and the car
How to crate train your pup successfully: tips from an expert
Best dog play pens for security and comfort
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