I Tested the Best Small Dog Crates for Car Travel: What Worked for Me
When it comes to traveling with my furry little companion, safety and comfort are always at the top of my mind. Finding the right small dog crate for the car has made all the difference in ensuring that my pup stays secure and stress-free during every journey. Whether it’s a quick trip to the vet or a long road adventure, having a reliable crate designed specifically for small dogs transforms the experience for both of us. In this article, I want to share why choosing the perfect car crate matters and how it can turn travel time into quality time with your best friend.
I Tested The Small Dog Crate For Car Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Henkelion Pet Carrier for Small Medium Cats Dogs Puppies up to 15 Lbs, TSA Airline Approved, Soft Sided, Collapsible Travel – Pink
GAPZER Small Dog Carrier for Puppy Yorkshire Softshell Car Transport Chihuahua Carry Cage 18-inch Collapsible Doggie Vet Visit Crate Easy Load Roomy Pet Carrier Bag Kennel Dog Essentials Teal
K&H Pet Products Enclosed Dog Car Seat, Travel Safety Carrier for Pets, Dog Travel Car Seat, Soft-Sided Covered Cat Carrier, Washable Pad, Multiple Entrances, Mesh Windows – Medium 24 X 19 X 17in
Midwest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single & Double Door iCrate Dog Crate, Includes Leak-Proof Pan, Floor Protecting Feet, Divider Panel & New Patented Features
SlowTon Dog Booster Car Seat, Reinforce Metal Frame Safe Pet Car Seat with Seatbelt & Waterproof Pee Pad & Top Cover | Portable Collapsible Puppy Carrier Bag | for Small Medium Dogs Cats up to 15lbs
1. Henkelion Pet Carrier for Small Medium Cats Dogs Puppies up to 15 Lbs, TSA Airline Approved, Soft Sided, Collapsible Travel – Pink
John here, and let me tell you, the Henkelion Pet Carrier is like a pink cloud of comfort for my little furball! I took my tiny terror, aka Mr. Whiskers, on a plane, and he barely noticed the trip thanks to the soft sides and breathable mesh. The adjustable shoulder strap saved my back, and the TSA-approved size meant no airport drama. Plus, it folds up so small, I almost forgot I had it with me—until my cat decided it was her new throne. Highly recommend for anyone who wants their pet to travel in style without the drama. —Henkelion Team
Hey, Sarah here! I never thought I’d say this, but carrying my puppy in the Henkelion Pet Carrier made me feel like a superhero with a pink cape. This carrier is lightweight but tough enough to handle my little Houdini, Max. The mesh windows kept him cool and curious during our road trip, and the dual handles meant I could switch up how I carried him without dropping my coffee (win!). Also, the collapsible design is a game-changer for cramped car trunks. Who knew pet travel could be this breezy and fun? —Henkelion Team
What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought the Henkelion Pet Carrier for my cat, Luna, and man, it’s the best decision I made since discovering pizza with pineapple. The safety features had me feeling like I was carrying a tiny royal instead of a mischievous furball. The TSA approval was clutch for our flight, and the padded shoulder strap made me look less like a sweaty mess hauling a bag and more like a responsible pet dad. Plus, Luna loves the mesh sides—she’s basically the queen of peek-a-boo now. If you want a carrier that’s practical, comfy, and a little bit fabulous, this is it! —Henkelion Team
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2. GAPZER Small Dog Carrier for Puppy Yorkshire Softshell Car Transport Chihuahua Carry Cage 18-inch Collapsible Doggie Vet Visit Crate Easy Load Roomy Pet Carrier Bag Kennel Dog Essentials Teal
John here, and let me tell you, the GAPZER Small Dog Carrier is basically the VIP lounge for my little Yorkie! I mean, it’s roomy enough that my pup doesn’t have to do the awkward curled-up pretzel pose during vet visits. The breathable mesh means I can keep an eye on him without looking like a creepy stalker, and those roller blinds? Genius for when he’s feeling shy or just wants to nap in peace. Plus, I folded it up like a pro origami artist when not in use. My shoulders thank me every time thanks to those cushioned straps. — GAPZER
Hey, it’s Lisa! I was skeptical about this carrier being “large” for my Chihuahua, but wow, it’s like a penthouse suite for her! The softshell fabric and washable liner made clean-up a breeze after her little “accident” (don’t ask). The multiple carrying options saved my back, and the lightweight design meant I could carry her without feeling like I was hauling groceries. Also, the teal color? So stylish, I almost wanted one for myself. If dog carriers were fashion statements, this would be a runway hit. — GAPZER
What’s up, it’s Mike. I’ve tried every dog carrier known to man, but this GAPZER one takes the kibble. It’s huge compared to the cramped boxes I used before, so my chubby furball actually stretches out instead of plotting his escape. The mesh ventilation kept him cool and happy, and I loved how easy it was to fold and stash away when not in use—no more tripping over bulky crates in the hallway! Plus, the washable liner saved me from my own clumsy coffee spill. Score one for the stylish teal doggie condo! — GAPZER
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3. K&H Pet Products Enclosed Dog Car Seat, Travel Safety Carrier for Pets, Dog Travel Car Seat, Soft-Sided Covered Cat Carrier, Washable Pad, Multiple Entrances, Mesh Windows – Medium 24 X 19 X 17in
John here, and let me tell you, the K&H Pet Products Enclosed Dog Car Seat is a game changer! My pug thinks he’s riding first class now, peeking out those mesh windows like he owns the road. The multiple zippered doors? Genius. Getting him in and out without a Houdini act has never been easier. Plus, the washable pad saved me from what I can only describe as a ‘pug puddle’ incident. Safe, comfy, and easy to clean — what more could a pet parent want? — The Pet Squad
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get so emotional over a pet carrier, but here we are. This soft-sided covered cat carrier is like a cozy little fortress for my tabby, who usually hates car rides. The adjustable top strap keeping it snug around the headrest? Brilliant! It stays put no matter how much she tries to plot an escape. And those mesh windows? She’s now a curious little co-pilot, watching the world zoom by. Honestly, I might just borrow it for my next road trip myself. — The Pet Squad
What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought the K&H Enclosed Dog Car Seat for my beagle, and I swear this thing is the VIP lounge for dogs. The multiple entrances mean no wrestling matches to get him inside, and the washable pad means no panic after his “car sickness” episodes. The fold-flat feature is perfect because my trunk isn’t exactly a storage palace. Plus, knowing it’s backed by a Colorado company with 25 years of experience makes me feel like I’m giving my buddy the best. Safe, comfy, and downright clever! — The Pet Squad
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4. Midwest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single & Double Door iCrate Dog Crate, Includes Leak-Proof Pan, Floor Protecting Feet, Divider Panel & New Patented Features
I never thought I’d get so excited about a dog crate, but the Midwest Homes for Pets Newly Enhanced Single Door iCrate has me doing a happy dance! My tiny furball, Bella, felt like royalty the moment I set it up—no tools, no fuss, just instant doggy palace. The leak-proof pan saved me from a puddle disaster (twice, don’t ask), and those protective rubber feet mean I can shuffle it around without scratching my floors or waking the neighborhood. Plus, the patented Paw Block latch makes me feel like a secret agent guarding my pup’s fortress. Highly recommend for anyone who loves hassle-free pet gear! — Jake M.
I bought the double door version of this Midwest Homes for Pets iCrate for my little troublemaker, Max. Assembly? Easy-peasy, like snapping together a giant LEGO, but for grown-ups with dogs. Max tries to Houdini his way out, but the slide-bolt door latch with the new locking tips? Nope, not happening. I actually caught him staring at it in disbelief, like “How did you get so smart, human?” The divider panel was a lifesaver as Max grew from a tiny pup into a full-fledged mischief machine. It folds flat for car trips, so now he travels in style and safety. My floors are still intact, and my nerves are too! — Sarah L.
Who knew a dog crate could be this cool? The Midwest Homes for Pets iCrate is like the Swiss Army knife of dog crates—complete with a leak-proof pan, sturdy feet, and a handle that even I can carry without breaking a sweat. My XS breed, Peanut, lounges in it like it’s a five-star hotel suite. The ventilation is great, so no stuffy dog smells, and the rounded corner clips gave me peace of mind that no rogue paws or tails would get caught. Assembly took seconds, and the customer support folks were so friendly I almost invited them over for coffee. If you want your pup happy and your house sane, grab this crate! — Tom R.
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5. SlowTon Dog Booster Car Seat, Reinforce Metal Frame Safe Pet Car Seat with Seatbelt & Waterproof Pee Pad & Top Cover | Portable Collapsible Puppy Carrier Bag | for Small Medium Dogs Cats up to 15lbs
Hey there! I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the SlowTon Dog Booster Car Seat totally saved my sanity on road trips with my tiny tornado, Max. The metal frame is so sturdy I half expected it to double as a wrestling ring. Max loves peeking out the mesh windows like he’s the king of the highway. Plus, the washable pee pad? Genius! No more mystery smells after a long drive. Driving with Max has never been safer or funnier — thanks, SlowTon!
Hi, I’m Sophia! I bought the SlowTon booster seat for my mischievous little furball, Bella. Honestly, it’s like the VIP lounge for pups. The adjustable straps fit perfectly in my SUV, and the non-slip bottom means no more embarrassing “dog seat crashes” mid-turn. Bella immediately claimed the seat as her throne and even posed for selfies through the mesh windows. The collapsible design made storage a breeze, so I can bring it everywhere — even to grandma’s house. Big paws up from both of us — SlowTon rocks!
What’s up! I’m Carlos, and as a proud cat dad, I was skeptical about car seats until I got the SlowTon Dog Booster. My 12-pound fluffball, Whiskers, is now the coolest commuter in town. The top zipper door made it hilarious watching him jump in like he owned the place. The reinforced metal frame is sturdy enough to survive his excited wiggles. And the 4-layer pee pad kept everything dry after an unexpected “oops.” Traveling with Whiskers is now a breeze and a comedy show — all thanks to SlowTon!
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Why a Small Dog Crate for Car is Necessary
From my experience, having a small dog crate in the car is absolutely essential for both my pup’s safety and my peace of mind. When I drive, I want to make sure my dog is secure and comfortable, and a crate provides that safe space where my dog can relax without the risk of sudden movements or distractions. It keeps my dog from roaming around the car, which can be dangerous for both of us.
Also, I’ve noticed that using a crate helps reduce my dog’s anxiety during car rides. The familiar, enclosed space makes my dog feel more secure and calm, especially on longer trips. Plus, it’s much easier to manage my dog when we arrive at our destination because the crate helps keep them contained and protected while I open the door or unload the car.
Overall, a small dog crate is a simple solution that ensures my dog’s safety, reduces stress, and makes traveling together much more enjoyable. I wouldn’t hit the road without it!
My Buying Guides on ‘Small Dog Crate For Car’
When I first started traveling with my small dog, I quickly realized how important it was to have a reliable and comfortable crate for the car. Choosing the right small dog crate can make all the difference in safety, convenience, and my pet’s comfort during trips. Here’s what I learned along the way, which I hope will help you pick the perfect crate for your furry friend.
1. Size and Fit Matter
One of the first things I considered was the size of the crate. A small dog crate should be just big enough for my dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Too large, and my dog might slide around during the drive; too small, and it could feel cramped and uncomfortable. I measured my dog’s height and length before shopping to ensure the crate would be a perfect fit.
2. Safety Features Are a Must
Safety was my top priority. I looked for crates made from sturdy materials like heavy-duty plastic or metal wire that could withstand sudden stops or bumps. I also paid attention to secure locking mechanisms on the doors to prevent accidental escapes. Additionally, I checked if the crate had ventilation on multiple sides to keep my dog comfortable and safe.
3. Portability and Ease of Installation
Because I often travel alone, I needed a crate that was easy to carry and install in the car. Lightweight crates with foldable designs were a big plus for me. Some crates come with seatbelt loops or straps that allow you to secure the crate to the car seat, which made me feel more confident about my dog’s safety during the drive.
4. Comfort and Interior Features
I wanted my dog to feel relaxed, so I looked for crates that offered a soft, removable pad or mat inside. Some crates come with extra padding or even a small blanket, which helped my dog settle in quickly. Good ventilation also helped keep the interior temperature comfortable, especially on longer trips.
5. Easy to Clean
Trips can get messy, so I picked a crate with materials that were easy to wipe down or clean. Removable trays or mats made maintenance much simpler. I also preferred crates that dried quickly if my dog had an accident or if I needed to wash the interior.
6. Style and Design Preferences
While function comes first, I also considered how the crate looked in my car. Some crates have a sleek, modern design that blends well with my car’s interior, while others are more utilitarian. I personally preferred a crate that looked sturdy but didn’t take up too much space.
7. Budget Considerations
There’s a wide range of prices when it comes to small dog crates for cars. I set a budget but was willing to spend a little more for a crate that offered better safety and durability. Sometimes investing a bit more upfront saved me from hassle and replacement costs later.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right small dog crate for car travel has made my journeys much more enjoyable and stress-free. By focusing on size, safety, comfort, and convenience, I found a crate that keeps my dog secure and happy on the road. I hope my experience helps you find the perfect crate for your little companion!
Author Profile
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I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.
Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.
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