Ever feel like you’re playing a guessing game when buying a dog crate? You want a safe spot for your furry friend, but the sheer number of choices can be overwhelming. Soft-sided crates seem like a great idea—they’re light and easy to move, right? But then you worry: will they be strong enough? Will they last long?
Choosing the perfect soft-sided crate means balancing portability with durability. Many owners struggle to find one that feels secure for their dog while still being easy to fold up for trips. It’s frustrating when a crate collapses too easily or doesn’t offer enough ventilation. We know you want the best for your companion.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what makes a quality soft-sided crate. You will learn the key features to look for, ensuring you pick a durable, safe, and comfortable home for your dog. Keep reading to discover how to choose the perfect soft haven without the guesswork.
Top Soft Sided Dog Crate 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.
- 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!
- Designed for Traveling: As the recipient of a 2026 Good Housekeeping Award, this soft-sided crate features a foldable construction frame that can be easily folded into an extra compact package. It comes with a convenient storage bag, allowing you to carry it effortlessly on your outings and travels. The quick assembly in just 2 minutes and easy disassembly make it a hassle-free choice for your adventures.
- Breathable & Comfortable: The four-side zippered breathable mesh walls ensure optimal ventilation, providing a comfortable environment for your furry friend. The soft plush mat inside the crate offers a cozy and comfortable space for them to relax and unwind.
- Enhanced Safety: This crate features a sturdy iron frame that maintains structural integrity. Reflective strips on both sides provide visibility for your pet's safety. The self-locking zipper system prevents escapes, while the mesh offers secure containment. An integrated leash adds an additional safety measure.
- Easy Assembly, Storage, & Maintenance: The convenient and simple design allows for quick assembly within 2 minutes. The crate can be folded into two different ways, catering to various indoor and outdoor settings. It features a water resistant design with waterproof fabric, making it easy to clean with just a damp cloth. The removable and machine washable mat simplifies care.
- Various Sizes for All Breeds: This crate is available in four sizes to accommodate different breeds and sizes of pets. Choose from S (up to 35lbs), M (up to 50lbs), L (up to 70lbs), and XL (up to 90lbs) to find the perfect fit for your furry companion.
- Designed for Traveling: As the recipient of a 2026 Good Housekeeping Award, this soft-sided crate features a foldable construction frame that can be easily folded into an extra compact package. It comes with a convenient storage bag, allowing you to carry it effortlessly on your outings and travels. The quick assembly in just 2 minutes and easy disassembly make it a hassle-free choice for your adventures.
- Breathable & Comfortable: The four-side zippered breathable mesh walls ensure optimal ventilation, providing a comfortable environment for your furry friend. The soft plush mat inside the crate offers a cozy and comfortable space for them to relax and unwind.
- Enhanced Safety: This crate features a sturdy iron frame that maintains structural integrity. Reflective strips on both sides provide visibility for your pet's safety. The self-locking zipper system prevents escapes, while the mesh offers secure containment. An integrated leash adds an additional safety measure.
- Easy Assembly, Storage, & Maintenance: The convenient and simple design allows for quick assembly within 2 minutes. The crate can be folded into two different ways, catering to various indoor and outdoor settings. It features a water resistant design with waterproof fabric, making it easy to clean with just a damp cloth. The removable and machine washable mat simplifies care.
- Various Sizes for All Breeds: This crate is available in four sizes to accommodate different breeds and sizes of pets. Choose from S (up to 35lbs), M (up to 50lbs), L (up to 70lbs), and XL (up to 90lbs) to find the perfect fit for your furry companion.
- Large 4-door folding pet travel kennel with soft sides for cats, dogs, rabbits, and other small animals
- Top door for sunlight and breathability, front and side doors with zipper lock clips for added security; Included straps to roll up and secure fabric doors when leaving the portable dog crate open
- Carrying handle and padded shoulder strap for easily transporting when pet kennel is folded; includes removable fleece pet bed pad
- Convenient pop-up pet crate design can be set up and folded down in seconds with no tools required
- Product Dimensions: 35.8 x 24 x 24 inches (LxWxH). Water-resistant base
Choosing the Best Soft Sided Dog Crate: Your Complete Buying Guide
Soft sided dog crates offer a cozy, portable home for your furry friend. They are lighter than metal crates and great for travel or temporary setups. Finding the right one means looking closely at a few important things. This guide helps you pick the perfect fit.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, check these features first. They make a big difference in how well the crate works for you and your dog.
- Ventilation: Good airflow keeps your dog comfortable. Look for mesh panels on at least three sides.
- Door Access: Multiple doors are helpful. A front door is standard, but side or top entry makes it easier to get your dog in and out, especially in tight spaces.
- Portability: Many soft crates fold flat. Check how easily it folds and if a carrying bag is included.
- Removable Liner: A washable bottom pad is essential for easy cleanup.
- Security Features: Look for strong zippers that your dog cannot easily chew open. Some crates have zipper clips for extra security.
Important Materials Matter
The material determines durability and comfort. Most soft crates use fabric stretched over a frame.
Frame Construction
The frame needs to be sturdy. Most use lightweight metal poles (like aluminum) or strong plastic tubing. A strong frame keeps the crate shape, even if your dog leans against the sides.
Fabric Durability
Heavy-duty polyester or nylon are common choices. Look for fabrics measured in denier (like 600D or higher). Higher denier numbers mean the fabric is thicker and resists tears better. If your dog chews, choose a tougher material.
Comfort Elements
The floor pad should be thick. Fleece or faux sheepskin liners feel soft. Make sure the liner attaches securely so it doesn’t bunch up.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all soft crates are made equally. A few details separate a great crate from a flimsy one.
Quality Boosters
- Double Stitching: Extra stitching at stress points (like door seams) prevents early tearing.
- Steel or Aluminum Frame: These materials hold up better over time than simple plastic supports.
- Water Resistance: A coating on the bottom material helps if you use the crate on damp ground outside.
Quality Reducers
- Thin Mesh: Fine, weak mesh can be ripped easily by claws or teeth.
- Flimsy Zippers: Plastic zippers break quickly. Metal zippers are always preferred for longevity.
- Poor Support: If the crate sags or collapses when empty, the frame is weak.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how you plan to use the crate. This will guide your size selection.
Travel and Transport
If you travel often, prioritize light weight and fast setup. Soft crates are perfect for keeping dogs secure in cars or hotel rooms. They take up much less space when folded than hard crates.
Home Use and Training
For den training at home, comfort is key. Ensure the crate is large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. A crate with a top-loading door can be very helpful when you need to gently guide a reluctant puppy inside.
Supervision Level
Soft crates work best when your dog is already crate-trained or is not a destructive chewer. If your dog panics or chews constantly, a soft crate might not survive. Hard crates are safer for heavy chewers.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Soft Sided Dog Crates
Q: Are soft sided crates safe for puppies?
A: They can be, but only if the puppy is not a heavy chewer. Watch your puppy closely. If they try to chew the mesh or zippers, switch to a wire crate until training progresses.
Q: How do I choose the right size?
A: Measure your dog from nose to tail tip and from the floor to the top of their head when standing. The crate should be at least this long and tall, allowing extra room for turning around.
Q: How do I clean a soft sided crate?
A: Remove the floor pad and wash it according to the tag instructions, usually machine washable on a gentle cycle. Wipe down the fabric walls with mild soap and water. Always let it dry completely before use.
Q: Can I leave my dog unattended in a soft crate?
A: For short periods, yes, if your dog is comfortable in the crate. Avoid leaving anxious dogs alone for long times, as they might try to escape and damage the crate.
Q: Are these crates good for airline travel?
A: Most airlines require hard-sided carriers for checked baggage. Soft crates are generally only approved for in-cabin travel if they fit under the seat, but always confirm the specific airline’s current pet policy.
Q: What prevents my dog from chewing through the mesh?
A: Look for crates made with heavy-duty, tear-resistant material (high denier). Also, ensure the crate is the correct size; a cramped dog chews more.
Q: Do soft crates smell over time?
A: If accidents are cleaned up immediately, they should not smell. If moisture soaks into the frame or fabric padding, odors can develop. Regular cleaning solves this.
Q: What is the main advantage over a metal crate?
A: The main benefits are portability and comfort. They are much lighter to carry and feel more like a cozy den than an open cage.
Q: Do soft crates offer good security at night?
A: They offer privacy, which many dogs like. However, they do not offer the same level of physical security as a metal crate against a very determined dog.
Q: How long does it take to set one up?
A: Most quality soft crates assemble in under five minutes. They usually just require snapping the poles into place or unfolding the pre-assembled frame.