Soft dog crates are a popular choice among pet parents because they are lightweight and easy to transport. They are also more comfortable for dogs than hard plastic or metal crates, as they offer more flexibility and give.

Before using a soft dog crate, you must properly introduce your dog to the crate. This will help ensure that he feels comfortable and at ease while in the crate. Try placing some treats and toys inside the crate and gradually increasing the amount of time your dog spends in the crate.

When using a soft dog crate for training purposes, it’s important to remember that the crate should not be used as a punishment. Instead, the crate should be a positive place where your dog feels safe and comfortable. You can use the crate as a way to teach your dog to stay in a designated area, but it should not be used as a punishment or to isolate your dog.

In addition to using a soft dog crate for training and transportation, it can also be a useful tool for dogs who suffer from separation anxiety or who may be prone to destructive behavior when left alone. A crate can provide a sense of security and a designated space for your dog to relax while you are away.

There are a few factors to consider when choosing a soft dog crate:

  • Size: Make sure the crate is large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably. You should also consider whether you’ll need a crate that can accommodate your dog’s growth if they’re still a puppy.
  • Material: Look for a crate made of durable, water-resistant material. This will help protect the crate from wear and tear and make it easier to clean.
  • Ventilation: Choose a crate with plenty of ventilation to ensure your dog has enough airflow, even when you’re making a lengthier trip.
  • Portability: If you plan on traveling with your dog, look for a crate that is lightweight and easy to carry. The best soft crates should also be easy to store when not in use.
  • Ease of use: Look for a crate with user-friendly features such as a zipper doors and removable panels. Make sure, also, that the zippers are well put-together.
  • Safety: Make sure the crate has sturdy construction and secure closures to keep your dog safe.

If you keep an eye out for the above pointers on the buying trail, you should have no trouble finding a soft dog crate that makes the perfect fit for Fido.

Explore our reviews of the leading soft-sided crates and see if any are the right choice for you and your hound.

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The 14 Best Soft Dog Crates

1. Our Pick EliteField Soft Dog Crate

Features

  • Doors: 3
  • Size: 36-inch
  • Weight: 14.5 pounds

Our overall favorite from today’s collection of the best soft dog crates comes from industry heavyweight EliteField. What do you get for your money here, then?

The first thing you’ll need to do is choose from a wide array of commanding colors to suit the temperament of your pooch. This is a pale beige iteration.

The frame of the crate is made from alloy steel, giving you a lengthy expected lifespan from this travel solution. The fabric is also built to last.

There are three mesh doors that streamline access, and the ventilation from all sides means that Rover can travel in style and comfort. There is a fleece bed bundled so your mutt can snuggle up in his new travel den.

We appreciate the handles on top of the crate and the padded shoulder strap, allowing you to spread the load while carrying your furball around.

This manufacturer stands behind their products, too. This model is warrantied for two years, giving you complete peace of mind at the point of purchase. As long as you do not need a crate for outdoor use, this is one of the strongest options at your disposal. If you do require a crate to use outside, we review several suitable options below. Does this make the right way to transport your dog?

Things We Like

  • Wide spread of colorways
  • Hardwearing and padded
  • Easy access with multiple doors

Things We Dislike

  • Unsuitable for outdoor use

2. Jespet Soft Dog Crate

Features

  • Doors: 3
  • Size: 30-inch
  • Weight: 8.2 pounds

Jespet serves up a great example of a soft dog crate and it is available in many different configurations.

This version measures up at 30 inches, making it a smart bet for transporting or containing smaller breeds. You can also pick from a variety of colors to suit. As an added bonus, you could also use this crate for transporting other small animals like cats or rabbits.

Fido benefits from three different entrances at the top, side, and front of the crate. Not only does this simplify getting your furball in and out of the crate, but you will also provide him with all the ventilation he needs for any journey.

The fleece mat slips inside to give your dog a soft surface to sleep and snuggle up on. This is not removable, though, complicating clean-up.

The dense 600-denier fabric is built to withstand plenty of rough and tumble. This is draped over collapsible and spring-loaded bars, giving you a soft crate that’s lightweight, durable, and also surprisingly inexpensive.

Once you have finished using the travel crate, it will collapse to a fraction of its size, allowing you to store it in limited spaces with ease.

If you’re looking for a soft dog crate for smaller breeds that is easy to use and set up but doesn’t cost the earth, we can’t recommend this model strongly enough.

Things We Like

  • Very lightweight crate
  • Portable and foldable
  • Multiple configurations

Things We Dislike

  • Quite awkward to clean

3. Amazon Basics Collapsible Soft Dog Crate

Features

  • Doors: 3
  • Size: 26-inch
  • Weight: 5.4 pounds

Amazon Basics is a brand with a deep bench of effective pet products priced almost in budget territory, but are they any good?

In a word, yes. This soft dog crate is one of the lightest models up for grabs. Despite this, the rugged polyester and PVC build should return plenty of faithful service.

The crate couldn’t be easier to set up and disassemble. You won’t need any tools or DIY skills, and you’ll be up and running in no time.

The manufacturer recommends this crate for use with small breeds such as beagles. The crate is also suitable for use with cats and other small animals. You should, though, avoid using this model unless you have already crate-trained your hound.

There are a pair of doors – one on the top of the crate and one at the front – and your pooch will also be ventilated from all four sides, vital for any lengthy journey.

If you need any more incentive to pop this soft dog crate on your shortlist, you might be surprised to know that a product this cheap comes guaranteed for one year, giving you complete confidence at the point of purchase. This is not only one of the cheapest soft dog crates out there, but it’s also one of the very best.

Things We Like

  • Simple to set up
  • Cheap yet effective crate
  • Built to stay the distance

Things We Dislike

  • Not ideal for untrained dogs

4. Noz2Noz Sof-Krate

Features

  • Doors: 1
  • Size: 42-inch
  • Weight: 11.6 pounds

Next in line is another soft-sided canine crate that’s a cinch to set up and fold down, but does it make the right choice for you?

Firstly, this crate measures 42 inches across, making it a neat fit for medium breeds. You might also find that some smaller examples of large breeds fit inside this thing. The maximum recommended weight limit is an impressive 100 pounds. If this size is inappropriate, you can choose from several smaller models.

Build quality is impressive. The steel frame adds strength and rigidity to the soft crate, while the mesh is long-lasting and highly breathable.

This is one of the few soft crates we review today that is suitable for use either indoors or outdoors, perfect for anyone looking to cut costs and invest in an all-purpose crate.

The primary drawback of this otherwise excellent crate is the fact it is extremely difficult to keep clean. We would like to see more removable and washable parts. Buyer, beware!

Whether you need to train your dog against exhibiting destructive behaviors, you want to try addressing separation anxiety issues, or you require a travel crate, this soft-sided model from Noz2Noz is well worth a place on your shortlist.

Things We Like

  • Easy to assemble and fold down
  • Mesh panels and steel frame
  • Ideal for use indoors or outdoors

Things We Dislike

  • Very difficult to keep clean

5. 2PET Foldable Soft Dog Crate

Features

  • Doors: 1
  • Size: 28-inch
  • Weight: 7.7 pounds

If you’re looking for a small, lightweight, and compact dog crate with soft sides, read on.

Available in four sizes and four striking colors, this model is the 28-inch version and is ideal for small breeds and for other small animals.

Weighing less than 8 pounds, this is one of the lighter crates with soft sides and one of the easiest to move around and store between uses.

Unlike some of the crates above and below, this one included a fabric cover that is both removable and washable. Think closely about upkeep and cleaning before committing to a soft crate for your dog, especially if there are no removable inserts.

The crate is not the easiest to set up, though. If you dislike fiddly tasks and you are not practically inclined, this is not the best option for you.

The tubes of the crate are made from steel, offering strength without weighing the crate down. The frame is draped over a dense fabric that’s built to last.

The full-frontal zipper is designed not to break at the first sign of your furball chewing. That said, if your pooch is prone to chewing aggressively, you may want to reconsider crating them in a model with soft sides.

Overall, this is a durable, cost-effective, and well-ventilated soft crate that makes a smooth fit for small breeds and toy breeds.

Things We Like

  • Superlight and compact
  • Washable fabric cover
  • Well-ventilated

Things We Dislike

  • Quite tricky to assemble

6. Zampa Soft Dog Crate for Small Dogs

Features

  • Doors: 1
  • Size: 32-inch
  • Weight: 9.3 pounds

Do you have a small breed or a toy breed at home? If so, you may find it challenging to find a soft crate that gives your pooch enough room but not too much. Sidestep this issue with this superb example from Zampa.

You can first pick from myriad fun designs to suit the character of your mutt. This is a simple option finished in muted black and gray. We prefer this color for the way it will mask stains.

This crate falls somewhere in the middle of the Zampa range, measuring up at 32 inches.

You won’t need any tools or DIY skills to pop the crate up in a matter of seconds. You’ll find the crate is just as easy to fold down when you’re done, and you can store it in limited spaces due to its collapsible nature.

When the crate is set up, though, you will be surprised by how rigid and robust it feels. Your dog will have all the ventilation he needs when traveling or relaxing.

The manufacturer claims that this crate is suitable for use indoors or outdoors, giving you a versatile solution for crating smaller dogs in comfort and security. As a final bonus, if anything goes amiss with your crate, you can expect great customer service from Zampa. What are you waiting for?

Things We Like

  • Perfect for small or medium breeds
  • Several striking colorways
  • Excellent ventilation

Things We Dislike

  • Some quality control concerns

7. Petsfit Travel Crate

Features

  • Doors: 2
  • Size: 36-inch
  • Weight: 9 pounds

If you’re looking for the cheapest possible soft-sided dog crate, you may need to make some compromises in terms of quality and performance. If you have a more fluid budget and you’re looking for excellence, consider this magnificent soft crate from the inimitable Petsfit.

The 36-inch crate is designed with medium and large breeds in mind. If you have a much larger dog, there is an even bigger crate up for grabs.

Made from a dense Oxford cloth draped over a highly effective frame, you’ll give Fido a safe and comfy den that you can use for many different purposes, from combating separation anxiety and discouraging destructive behavior to transporting Rover to the vet or the groomer.

Ideal for indoor and outdoor use, you should get years of faithful service from this crate if you look after it well.

Once you have finished your trip or crate training session, you can easily fold the collapsible crate down.

Unlike many of the soft crates we highlight today, this one is completely odor-free. Some models emit an unpleasant smell upon unboxing – we draw your attention to this to prevent any nasty surprises.

Aside from a lamentably weak zipper, this is a highly effective soft crate, even if you’ll need to dig deeper for the privilege.

Things We Like

  • For medium and large dogs
  • Collapsible and lightweight
  • Use indoors or outdoors

Things We Dislike

  • Weak zipper so handle with care

8. Petsfit Collapsible Dog Crate

Features

  • Doors: 3
  • Size: 20-inch
  • Weight: 4 pounds

We have another example from the mighty Petsfit stable up next with this three-doored soft-sided crate. How does it stand and fall?

This is a dinky 20-inch crate, making it a snug fit for most smaller breeds. You should consult the sizing chart and carefully measure your pooch to guarantee a good fit.

Choose from a couple of dark and muted colorways designed not to show stains.

As you would expect from a crate designed for small dogs, this model is compact, lightweight, and easy to use. Once you have finished w1ith the crate, you can collapse and fold it down in a matter of seconds.

Inside, your pooch will get a furry cushion for his comfort. For your convenience, this is washable and removable. Look closely for this feature when comparing dog crates or you could end up with a soft crate that becomes a nightmare to keep clean.

The zipper is self-lockable, meaning that unless your dog is a notorious escape artist, he should remain securely inside the crate until you let him out.

For a crate that costs this much, we would like to see a superior fit and finish. Setting this aside, you’ll get the same great value you would expect from Petsfit.

Things We Like

  • Ideal for small dogs or cats
  • Remarkably light and compact
  • Foldable and collapsible

Things We Dislike

  • Build quality could be improved

9. Siivton Airline-Approved Pet Carrier

Features

  • Doors: 2
  • Size: 20-inch
  • Weight: 4 pounds

Are you looking to take a trip by air with your furry friend? If so, you’ll need an airline-approved crate to ensure that he stays safely contained during your trip. This pet carrier from Siivton meets most airline cargo specifications, but is it any good?

The first thing that stands out is the compact nature and extremely light weight of this soft-sided crate. Measuring just 20 inches across, you’ll need a smaller breed, despite the XL sizing tag.

There are four mesh windows built in, giving your dog ventilation from all angles and the ability to watch where he is going.

We are compelled to draw your attention to the main zipper on this crate. It is very weak. The manufacturer suggests zippering the crate very carefully the first time you use it. We recommend continually operating the zipper with care to avoid the frustration of a split zipper and a ruined dog crate.

There is a suede and polyester pad inside to enhance your dog’s comfort as he rides along. Once the trip is over, you can remove and wash the pad to keep everything spotless.

This carrier is robust and rigid when it’s set up yet takes very little room to store when it’s folded down.

For an airline-approved soft dog crate that manages to hold its shape well, place your trust in Siivton.

Things We Like

  • Airline approved
  • Triple-layered fabric
  • Holds its shape well

Things We Dislike

  • Primary zipper is fragile

10. Morpilot Pet Travel Bag

Features

  • Doors: 1
  • Size: 18-inch
  • Weight: 3.6 pounds

Morpilot is a highly reputable brand with a great selection of pet products that deliver in fine style without breaking the bank.

This travel bag for small dogs and cats weighs less than 4 pounds and measures just 18 inches across. In spite of the soft sides and superlight nature of this crate, it feels rigid when set up.

You have four colorways to choose from, as well as additional sizes if this crate is too small for your dog’s needs. It is worth reinforcing that you need to give your dog enough room to turn, stand, and lie down. He will not require much more space inside the crate, so bigger is not always better.

Unlike a handful of the crates we review today, this model is very easy to keep clean. Firstly, the dark colorways disguise stains and wear and tear quite effectively. Beyond this, you can remove and wash the insert to avoid needing to scrub away inside the crate.

When you’re carrying your dog alone, use the handles on top or the shoulder strap so you won’t feel burdened.

For a soft-sided dog crate that holds its shape admirably while still collapsing down when not in use, you can’t beat this model intended for small dogs from Morpilot.

Things We Like

  • Super-simple to keep clean
  • Ideal for cats or dogs
  • Keeps its shape nicely

Things We Dislike

  • Foul smell upon unboxing

11. Midwest Portable Pet Crate

Features

  • Doors: 1
  • Size: 36-inch
  • Weight: 17 pounds

Midwest Homes for Pets is a brand synonymous with quality pet gear at affordable prices. This soft and portable dog crate continues that winning tradition.

We should point out that this crate doesn’t make the strongest choice if you have a dog who tends to escape at any opportunity. Assuming you have a crate trained dog without Houdini tendencies, read on.

The crate comes with three mesh windows, giving your pooch a nicely ventilated and secure den that he can snuggle up while traveling.

Of the four sizes available, this 36-inch model is intended for medium and larger breeds. The suggested weight range is from 40 to 70 pounds, so does this sound like a match for Rover?

The corners of the crate are reinforced, eliminating one of the most common weak points on soft crates. The zipper is also slightly more efficient and robust than some of the poorer examples we review above and below.

Another area where this soft crate scores is when it comes to cleaning and maintenance. The interior pad is removable and washable for your convenience and your dog’s comfort and cleanliness.

Ideal for use indoors or outdoors, this is one of the best soft dog crates for medium and large breeds. Is it the right choice for you and your dog, though?

Things We Like

  • 3 mesh windows
  • Reinforced corners
  • Easy to use and maintain

Things We Dislike

  • Not the best crate for escape artists

12. Petsfit Small Dog Crate

Features

  • Doors: 2
  • Size: 26-inch
  • Weight: 6.9 pounds

We have time for another soft crate from the Petsfit stable before we round out, so how does this model shape up?

Measuring up at 26 inches, this crate is intended to accommodate smaller breeds, giving them just enough room and no more.

There are several vibrant colors to choose from, including this pale blue model. If you are looking to keep staining to a minimum, we recommend choosing a darker colored crate.

The zippers on this crate are much stronger than those on much of the competition. Additionally, the zippers are lockable, improving overall security.

The crate couldn’t be easier to clean and maintain thanks to the washable and removable insert.

Overall build quality is solid. The frame of the crate is steel and the outer is made of a dense Oxford cloth and highly breathable mesh.

Aside from some reported gripes with customer care issues, this is an impressive soft crate that can be used for a variety of purposes, and it’s also priced quite keenly.

Things We Like

  • Robust and lockable zippers
  • Easy to keep clean
  • Perfect match for smaller breeds

Things We Dislike

  • Customer service issues flagged

13. Go Pet Club Soft Dog Crate

Features

  • Doors: 3
  • Size: 32-inch
  • Weight: 9 pounds

As we edge to the end of today’s showcase of the best soft dog crates, we have a great offering from Go Pet Club.

You will first need to pick from a wide choice of sizes to suit. This 26-inch model is intended for small breeds like dachsunds. There are also four larger crates available if you have a bigger furball you need to contain.

While this is a small and light crate that weighs less than 10 pounds, the construction is rugged, and the crate should yield lots of faithful service.

One of the first things you’ll appreciate is the ease of set-up. You’ll need no tools and no DIY skills to get up and running right out the box.

This is one of the best-ventilated soft crates, providing your dog with a safe, snug, and airy method of traveling. Overall build is excellent with a winning combination of steel frame and Oxford cloth body.

If you have a destructive dog or a dog prone to escaping, this likely doesn’t make the best transport solution. We would advise considering a hard crate instead.

Things We Like

  • Wide variety of sizes to suit
  • Hardwearing yet lightweight
  • Outstanding ventilation

Things We Dislike

  • Not intended for destructive dogs

14. PetNation Port-A-Crate Soft Dog Crate

Features

  • Doors: 3
  • Size: 36-inch
  • Weight: 10.2 pounds

Last but by no means least in today’s roundup of the best soft crates for dogs comes from PetNation. What are the benefits and drawbacks of this crate, then?

The first thing to point out is that this model is unsuitable for use with dogs that have not been crate trained. Fortunately, with a consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement, you should find that you have little problem coaxing your pooch inside a crate. Once he establishes the crate as his den, you may find him making his way inside when he wants a few minutes of time out.

This crate measures 36 inches, making it one of the larger examples with soft sides. If you dog weighs up to 70 pounds, this might make a great travel solution. If you have a smaller furball, choose from one of the more compact models in the line.

One of the primary advantages of this crate is the way you can very quickly and easily set it up and break it down. Making any kind of trip with your dog can be frustrating, so you will appreciate your equipment not giving you any extra headaches.

The steel frame provides plenty of strength and rigidity, while the dense Oxford cloth exterior is ideal for returning a lengthy lifespan.

Aside from a strong and unpleasant smell when you unbox this crate, you’re getting a versatile and secure travel solution for larger dogs for far less than you might imagine.

Things We Like

  • For crate trained dogs
  • Ideal for bigger breeds
  • Set up and fold down tool-free

Things We Dislike

  • Noxious smell upon unboxing

FAQ

1) What is a soft dog crate and how does it differ from a traditional crate?

A soft dog crate is a portable crate made of fabric and mesh, rather than the traditional wire or plastic materials. Soft crates are often lighter and easy to store when not in use, making them a good option for travel. They can also be more suitable for dogs with anxiety or crate-related phobias, as the fabric walls may provide a greater sense of security for the dog. However, soft crates are generally not as sturdy as traditional crates and may not be suitable for all dogs, especially those who are prone to destructive behavior.

2) How can I choose the right size soft crate for my dog?

It is important to choose a soft crate that is the appropriate size for your dog. The crate should provide your dog with enough room to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably, but not so large that they have too much extra space. If you are using the crate for travel, be sure to check the dimensions allowed by your chosen mode of transportation before making a purchase.

3) Can a soft crate be used for crate training a puppy?

Yes, a soft crate can be used for crate training a puppy. It is important to ensure that the crate is the appropriate size for your puppy and to gradually increase the amount of time they spend in the crate as they become more comfortable with it. It is also important to never leave a young puppy in a crate for extended periods of time, as they need frequent potty breaks and human interaction.

4) How do I clean a soft dog crate?

Cleaning a soft crate is generally easier than cleaning a traditional wire or plastic crate, as the fabric and mesh can be removed and washed. The crate should be cleaned regularly to prevent odors and bacteria buildup. To clean a soft crate, first remove any debris or dirt from the crate and vacuum the interior. Then, spot clean any areas that are visibly soiled with a mild detergent or pet-safe cleaning solution. If the crate is very dirty, it can be washed in the washing machine using a gentle cycle and mild detergent. Be sure to air dry the crate thoroughly before using it again.

5) Are soft crates safe for dogs?

Soft crates are generally safe for dogs, as long as they are used correctly. However, it is important to ensure that the crate is the appropriate size for your dog and that it is not left unsupervised with the dog inside. Soft crates are not as sturdy as traditional crates and may not be suitable for dogs who are prone to destructive behavior or who are larger or stronger. It is also important to check the crate regularly for any damage or wear and tear, and to replace it if necessary.


Conclusion

We hope that today’s roundup of the best soft dog crates has given you plenty of inspiration. You should now have a suitable shortlist of crates in this style that make the snuggest fit for your dog when he is accompanying you on a trip.

As we outline above, crates can also be useful for dealing with destructive behaviors or separation anxiety as well as for travel purposes.

One of the most critical elements is getting the size of the crate right. As long as you dog has the room to turn, sit, and lie down, you have the right crate size.

We recommend that you bookmark GO Boxer Rescue before you go and be sure to come back soon. We have a very busy content schedule with the holiday season in full swing, so see you very soon!

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