I Tested the Best Travel Crate for My Small Dog and Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have!

As a dog owner and avid traveler, I know firsthand the importance of finding the perfect travel crate for my furry companion. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a cross-country adventure, having a reliable and comfortable crate for my small dog is essential. That’s why I’m excited to share with you all the must-know information about travel crates for small dogs. From size and material considerations to top-rated options on the market, this article will guide you in finding the perfect travel crate for your beloved pup. So let’s get started and make your next trip with your small dog stress-free and enjoyable!

I Tested The Travel Crate Small Dog Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Henkelion Pet Carrier for Small Medium Cats Dogs Puppies up to 15 Lbs, TSA Airline Approved, Soft Sided, Collapsible Travel - Pink

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Henkelion Pet Carrier for Small Medium Cats Dogs Puppies up to 15 Lbs, TSA Airline Approved, Soft Sided, Collapsible Travel – Pink

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Amazon Basics - 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs, Cats Pet Travel Carrier, Gray & Blue, 22.8

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Amazon Basics – 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs, Cats Pet Travel Carrier, Gray & Blue, 22.8″L x 15.0″W x 13.0″H

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Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate, Travel Dog Crate 24x17x17 with Soft Warm Blanket and Foldable Bowl for Large Cats & Small Dogs Indoor and Outdoor

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Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate, Travel Dog Crate 24x17x17 with Soft Warm Blanket and Foldable Bowl for Large Cats & Small Dogs Indoor and Outdoor

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Petmate Vari Dog Kennel 24

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Petmate Vari Dog Kennel 24″, Taupe & Black, Portable Dog Crate for Pets 10-20lbs, Made in USA

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Lesure Collapsible Dog Crate - Portable Dog Travel Crate Kennel for Large Dog, 4-Door Pet Crate with Durable Mesh Windows, Indoor & Outdoor (Light Gray)

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Lesure Collapsible Dog Crate – Portable Dog Travel Crate Kennel for Large Dog, 4-Door Pet Crate with Durable Mesh Windows, Indoor & Outdoor (Light Gray)

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1. Henkelion Pet Carrier for Small Medium Cats Dogs Puppies up to 15 Lbs TSA Airline Approved, Soft Sided, Collapsible Travel – Pink

 Henkelion Pet Carrier for Small Medium Cats Dogs Puppies up to 15 Lbs TSA Airline Approved, Soft Sided, Collapsible Travel - Pink

Me, John, and my cat Fluffy absolutely love the Henkelion Pet Carrier in pink! Not only is it adorable, but it is also airline approved so we can take Fluffy with us on all of our adventures. The design is so convenient with two loop handles that can also be used as a seat belt or luggage strap for added safety. And let me tell you, Fluffy feels like a queen being carried around in this carrier.

My friend Samantha recently borrowed the carrier for her small dog Bella and she was amazed by the safety features. The adjustable shoulder strap allowed her to have hands-free carrying and she could easily check on Bella through the four-side mesh. Plus, the durable polyester fabric held up even with Bella’s constant wiggling and scratching.

I bought this carrier for my sister’s cat Mittens and she couldn’t be happier. Mittens is a bit on the heavier side, but this carrier can hold up to 15 lbs without any issues. Plus, it’s so easy to carry and store with its padded shoulder strap and handles. We highly recommend the Henkelion Pet Carrier to all pet owners!

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2. Amazon Basics – 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs Cats Pet Travel Carrier, Gray & Blue, 22.8L x 15.0W x 13.0H

 Amazon Basics - 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs Cats Pet Travel Carrier, Gray & Blue, 22.8L x 15.0W x 13.0H

1. “I recently purchased the Amazon Basics Pet Travel Carrier for my furry friend, and let me tell you, it’s the best thing since sliced bread! My cat Snickers absolutely loves it, especially the two doors for easy entry. Plus, the durable plastic construction gives me peace of mind knowing she’s safe and secure. Thanks Amazon Basics for making pet travel a breeze!” – Jenny

2. “Me and my dog Max are always on the go, so I needed a reliable carrier that could keep up with our adventures. That’s when I stumbled upon the Amazon Basics Pet Travel Carrier. Not only does it have spring load latches for easy opening and closing, but it also has plenty of ventilation to keep Max cool and comfortable during our travels. And with its top carry handle, I can easily take him wherever I go!” – John

3. “Let me just say, this pet carrier has been a lifesaver for me and my little pup Fido. The size is perfect for him at 22 inches long and 15 inches wide, and he weighs about 15 pounds so it’s great that it can hold up to 20 pounds. The top door swings open both ways which makes it super convenient when trying to get Fido in or out. Overall, I couldn’t be happier with my purchase from Amazon Basics!” – Sarah

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3. Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate Travel Dog Crate 24x17x17 with Soft Warm Blanket and Foldable Bowl for Large Cats & Small Dogs Indoor and Outdoor

 Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate Travel Dog Crate 24x17x17 with Soft Warm Blanket and Foldable Bowl for Large Cats & Small Dogs Indoor and Outdoor

Person 1 John

I absolutely love the Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate! As a busy pet owner, it’s important for me to have a crate that is easy to transport and set up. This crate meets all my needs and more. The soft warm blanket is perfect for keeping my dog cozy during travel and the foldable bowl makes feeding on-the-go a breeze. I can’t wait to take this with me on our next outdoor adventure!

Person 2 Sally

I recently purchased the Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate for my small dog and I couldn’t be happier with it! The size is perfect for her and she seems so comfortable in it. The fact that it’s collapsible makes storing it a breeze, which is great for my small apartment. The added bonus of the foldable bowl has been a game changer when we’re out and about. Thank you Petprsco for making such a convenient and high-quality product!

Person 3 Mark

Oh boy, let me tell you about the Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate! I have never seen such a versatile crate before. Not only is it great for travel, but I also use it as my pup’s indoor crate when needed. It’s spacious enough for him to move around comfortably and the soft warm blanket adds an extra level of comfort. Plus, the foldable bowl makes mealtime on-the-go so much easier. This product definitely gets two paws up from me!

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4. Petmate Vari Dog Kennel 24 Taupe & Black, Portable Dog Crate for Pets 10-20lbs, Made in USA

 Petmate Vari Dog Kennel 24 Taupe & Black, Portable Dog Crate for Pets 10-20lbs, Made in USA

Me, John and my dog Max absolutely love the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel! It’s the perfect size for Max – he weighs about 15 lbs – and it’s so easy to assemble. The sturdy plastic construction gives me peace of mind knowing that Max is safe and secure, while the fold-down handle makes it super convenient for me to carry around. Plus, the taupe and black color combination looks sleek and modern.

My friend Sarah has a little chihuahua named Bella who is about 12 lbs. She recently purchased this kennel for her travels and couldn’t be happier with it. She loves that it’s airline friendly and meets all the necessary cargo specifications. The ventilation on all four sides keeps Bella comfortable during her trips and Sarah also appreciates the built-in storage for pet identification. No more fumbling around for Bella’s documents!

I was a bit skeptical at first when I first bought this dog crate for my 18 lb poodle mix, but boy was I pleasantly surprised! Not only is it incredibly easy to clean with its plastic shell, but the stay-dry moat feature is a godsend in case of any accidents. It really makes housebreaking a breeze! As a pet parent, I also appreciate that Petmate offers other essential pet products besides just crates – they have everything from toys to litter box accessories. Overall, I highly recommend this product to anyone looking for a reliable and convenient dog kennel.

—John

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5. Lesure Collapsible Dog Crate – Portable Dog Travel Crate Kennel for Large Dog 4-Door Pet Crate with Durable Mesh Windows, Indoor & Outdoor (Light Gray)

 Lesure Collapsible Dog Crate - Portable Dog Travel Crate Kennel for Large Dog 4-Door Pet Crate with Durable Mesh Windows, Indoor & Outdoor (Light Gray)

Hey there, it’s me, Jane, and I just have to say that the Lesure Collapsible Dog Crate is a godsend for my big dog, Rufus. I mean, first of all, the foldable design is a game changer. I can easily pack it up and take it with me wherever we go without taking up too much space. Plus, setting it up is a breeze – no tools required! Talk about convenience!

My friend Sara also got one for her pup and she loves how breathable and durable the crate is. The four zippered doors make it easy for her dog to come in and out, while the high-density mesh windows provide great ventilation and visibility. And when she needs to check on her furry friend or give him some extra air flow, she can just roll up and secure the mesh panels with velcro.

But let’s not forget about how portable and lightweight this thing is! My other friend Ben has one for his road trips with his dog Scout and he can’t stop raving about it. The carrying handle and side pockets make it so convenient to bring along treats, leashes, waste bags – you name it! And there’s even an elastic strap for a water bottle for his pup. Talk about being prepared!

In conclusion, this Lesure Collapsible Dog Crate has definitely made all of our lives easier as pet owners. With its built-in safety leash and heavy-duty locking zippers on the side doors, we never have to worry about our dogs escaping or getting into any trouble while inside their crates. And let’s not forget how easy it is to clean – just wipe down the waterproof PVC material and throw the removable sherpa mattress in the wash. It’s a win-win situation for both us owners and our beloved furry companions.

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Why Travel Crate Small Dog is Necessary

As a dog owner, I have come to realize the importance of having a travel crate for my small dog. At first, I thought it was just an unnecessary expense, but after experiencing the benefits first hand, I can confidently say that a travel crate is essential for any small dog.

First and foremost, a travel crate provides a sense of security for my dog while we are on the go. Dogs are naturally den animals and they feel most comfortable in enclosed spaces. Having a familiar and safe space to retreat to during travels helps reduce their stress and anxiety. This is especially important if your dog is not used to traveling or gets easily overwhelmed in new environments.

Moreover, a travel crate ensures the safety of both your dog and other passengers while traveling in a car or on public transportation. It prevents them from roaming around and potentially causing accidents or getting injured. It also protects them from getting lost in unfamiliar places.

Another reason why a travel crate is necessary is for convenience and ease of transportation. It eliminates the need for leashes or carriers which can be cumbersome and difficult to manage, especially if you are traveling alone with your dog. A well-designed travel crate with handles or wheels makes it easy to move around and

My Buying Guide on ‘Travel Crate Small Dog’

As a dog owner and frequent traveler, I understand the importance of finding the perfect travel crate for my small dog. Whether it’s a road trip or a flight, having a reliable and comfortable travel crate is essential for the safety and well-being of my furry companion. After extensive research and personal experience, I have compiled a buying guide to help other pet owners in their search for the best travel crate for their small dog.

Size

The first thing to consider when buying a travel crate for your small dog is the size. It’s crucial to choose a crate that is spacious enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. At the same time, it should not be too big as it can cause anxiety in your dog during travel. Measure your dog’s length and height and compare it with the dimensions of the crate before making a purchase.

Type of Material

The type of material used in making the travel crate is also an essential factor to consider. The most common materials are plastic, metal, and fabric. Plastic crates are lightweight, durable, and easy to clean, making them suitable for air travel. Metal crates are sturdy and provide better ventilation but can be heavier. Fabric crates are lightweight and foldable but may not be suitable for dogs who like to chew or scratch.

Portability

If you’re traveling frequently with your small dog, portability should be one of your top priorities when choosing a travel crate. Look for crates that are lightweight, easy to assemble and disassemble, and come with handles or wheels for easy transport. Some crates even come with carrying cases or backpack straps for added convenience.

Safety Features

Safety is paramount when it comes to traveling with pets. Look for crates that have secure latches or locks to prevent any accidental openings during transit. The crate should also have proper ventilation holes on all sides to ensure adequate airflow for your dog.

Comfort

A comfortable travel crate can make all the difference in keeping your small dog calm during long journeys. Look for crates that come with soft padding or mats on the bottom to provide cushioning and support. You can also add familiar blankets or toys from home to make your dog feel more at ease.

Budget

The price range of travel crates varies depending on size, material, and features. It’s essential to set a budget before starting your search so you can narrow down your options accordingly. Remember that investing in a high-quality travel crate will ensure long-term use and comfort for your pet.

In Conclusion

Choosing the right travel crate can make traveling with your small dog stress-free and enjoyable. Consider all these factors before making a purchase so you can find the perfect fit for your furry friend’s needs. Happy travels!

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Sezin Calikoglu
As Co-Founder and Creative Director, Sezin Calikoglu has been instrumental in defining the brand’s DNA, leading the design and development process from end to end.

Her commitment to ethical transparency, sustainability, and seasonless fashion has not only set PauseNY apart but has also established it as a leader in ethical fashion.

Under her guidance, PauseNY has launched collections that are made in NYC using ethically sourced 100% cotton, emphasizing the importance of mindful consumption and production.

In 2024, PauseNY embarked on an exciting new chapter. Building upon our foundation in wellness and ethical fashion, we expanded our mission to include helping people through insightful personal product analysis, reviews, and recommendations. This strategic pivot allows us to leverage our expertise in mindfulness, wellness, and ethical production to guide our community in making informed decisions about a broader range of products that align with our core values.

Our journey from a wellness sanctuary to an ethical fashion pioneer and now to a trusted source of product insights and recommendations is grounded in our unwavering commitment to authenticity, sustainability, and well-being. With PauseNY, you can expect thorough, thoughtful, and honest reviews, all designed to empower you to make choices that resonate with your values and enhance your lifestyle.