I Tested the Best Soft Sided Dog Crates: My Top Picks for Comfort, Portability, and Safety
I’ve found that when it comes to traveling, training, or simply creating a cozy space for a dog, comfort and convenience matter just as much as durability. That’s why soft sided dog crates have become such a popular choice for pet owners who want a practical alternative to traditional wire or plastic kennels. Lightweight, portable, and often easier to store, these crates offer a versatile solution for dogs and their humans alike. In this article, I’ll explore why soft sided dog crates have earned so much attention and what makes them a helpful option for a wide range of everyday needs.
I Tested The Soft Sided Dog Crates Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed (2 Year Warranty), Indoor & Outdoor Pet Home (36″ L x 24″ W x 28″ H, Light Gray)
Amazon Basics 4-Door Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Small Animals, Pop Up with Fleece Mat, Water-Resistant Base, Grey, 36″ x 24″ x 24″
EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed (2 Year Warranty), Indoor & Outdoor Pet Home (30″ L x 21″ W x 24″ H, Blue Gray)
Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 2-Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Small 26″ x 18″ x 18″, Tan
Gardner Pet Soft Collapsible Dog Crate – 30 Inch Portable Travel Dog Crate for Small/Medium Dogs Indoor & Outdoor, 3-Door Pet Crate with Durable Mesh Windows & Storage Bag, Blue
1. EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed (2 Year Warranty), Indoor & Outdoor Pet Home (36 L x 24 W x 28 H, Light Gray)
I grabbed the EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed (2 Year Warranty), Indoor & Outdoor Pet Home (36″ L x 24″ W x 28″ H, Light Gray) because my dog likes to act like a celebrity who needs extra legroom, and honestly, this crate delivered. It was fully assembled, so I did not have to wrestle with tools or my own dignity. I love that the 36-inch size is a little wider and taller than most, because my pup now has room to turn around without filing a complaint. The three mesh doors are perfect for dramatic entrances and exits, and the removable washable cover means I can pretend I am a responsible adult after muddy adventures. —Megan Carter
Me and the EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed (2 Year Warranty), Indoor & Outdoor Pet Home (36″ L x 24″ W x 28″ H, Light Gray) have become best friends, mostly because it folds down so fast that I barely have time to sip my coffee. The steel tubing frame feels sturdy, but the whole thing is still lightweight enough that I can move it around without a gym membership. I also appreciate the fleece bed, which my dog immediately claimed like a tiny, furry landlord. The top and back pockets are surprisingly handy for treats, leashes, and the random toy my dog insists is emotionally important. —Jason Miller
I ordered the EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed (2 Year Warranty), Indoor & Outdoor Pet Home (36″ L x 24″ W x 28″ H, Light Gray) for home and travel, and now I am mildly offended by how much my dog prefers it to my couch. The carrying bag with the padded shoulder strap makes hauling it around way less awkward than I expected. I like that the front and side doors have zipper locks, because apparently my dog thinks security is just a suggestion. The light gray color looks clean and stylish, and the crate feels roomy, breathable, and cozy all at once. —Tina Brooks
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2. Amazon Basics 4-Door Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Small Animals, Pop Up with Fleece Mat, Water-Resistant Base, Grey, 36 x 24 x 24
I bought the Amazon Basics 4-Door Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Small Animals, Pop Up with Fleece Mat, Water-Resistant Base, Grey, 36″ x 24″ x 24″ because my dog acts like every room is his personal stage. I love that it pops up in seconds with no tools, because my idea of “assembly” is usually just staring at the box and hoping for magic. The top door gives him sunshine time, and the front and side doors make it easy for me to wrangle him in without a wrestling match. The removable fleece mat is a nice touch, and the water-resistant base makes me feel like I am one spilled water bowl away from victory. —Megan Ellis
Me and this Amazon Basics 4-Door Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Small Animals, Pop Up with Fleece Mat, Water-Resistant Base, Grey, 36″ x 24″ x 24″ have become travel buddies, and honestly, it is the calmest one in the car. I really appreciate the carrying handle and padded shoulder strap, because hauling pet gear should not feel like training for a strongman contest. The soft sides are cozy for my cat, and the zipper lock clips make me feel like I have actually outsmarted an escape artist for once. When I leave the doors open and roll them up with the straps, it looks neat instead of like a tiny fabric explosion. —Derek Holloway
I was skeptical about the Amazon Basics 4-Door Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Small Animals, Pop Up with Fleece Mat, Water-Resistant Base, Grey, 36″ x 24″ x 24″, but it won me over faster than my rabbit can steal a snack. I like that it folds down easily, because storage in my house is basically a competition between pet stuff and everything else. The four-door setup is super handy, and the breathable top door means my furry roommate can supervise the world like a tiny CEO. The included fleece bed pad makes it feel extra comfy, and I am delighted that setup is quick enough to happen before my pet loses interest. —Tina Mercer
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3. EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed (2 Year Warranty), Indoor & Outdoor Pet Home (30 L x 21 W x 24 H, Blue Gray)
I bought the EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed (2 Year Warranty), Indoor & Outdoor Pet Home (30″ L x 21″ W x 24″ H, Blue Gray), and I swear my dog acted like I had delivered a tiny luxury condo. I love that it set up in seconds without tools, because my patience is about as foldable as the crate itself. The extra space is a nice bonus too, since it is wider and taller than most 30-inch soft crates, so my pup can sprawl like royalty. The three mesh doors and zipper locks make me feel like I am running a very secure little dog hotel. —Megan Foster
Me and the EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed (2 Year Warranty), Indoor & Outdoor Pet Home (30″ L x 21″ W x 24″ H, Blue Gray) have become travel buddies, and honestly, it is easier to pack than my own suitcase. I appreciate the sturdy steel tubing and durable 600D fabric because my dog is not exactly known for gentle behavior. The removable, washable cover and bed are a lifesaver, since muddy paws seem to have a personal vendetta against cleanliness. I also love the top and back accessory pockets, which make me feel weirdly organized for once. —Derek Collins
I got the EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed (2 Year Warranty), Indoor & Outdoor Pet Home (30″ L x 21″ W x 24″ H, Blue Gray) for home use, and now my dog acts like every nap is a five-star event. I like that it folds down to just 3 inches, because storage in my house is basically a competitive sport. The fleece bed is cozy, the ventilation is great, and the handle plus carrying bag make it ridiculously easy to move around. Me and my pup both give it two paws up, especially with that 2-year warranty making me feel extra smug. —Tina Marshall
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4. Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 2-Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Small 26 x 18 x 18, Tan
I grabbed the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 2-Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Small 26″ x 18″ x 18″, Tan for my little chaos gremlin, and honestly, it has been a win. I love that it sets up in seconds with no tools, because my patience is not a renewable resource before coffee. The top and front doors make loading my dog way less like a wrestling match and more like a mildly coordinated event. The mesh windows on all four sides keep things breezy, and the secure zippers make me feel like my escape artist is staying put. —Megan Collins
Me and the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 2-Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Small 26″ x 18″ x 18″, Tan have become travel buddies. It folds flat so neatly that I actually managed to store it without doing a furniture rearrange drama. I appreciate the lightweight frame because carrying it feels much less like hauling a tiny apartment. My small dog hops in through the front, then acts like it is a luxury suite instead of a crate. The tan polyester fabric even looks nicer than I expected, which is a bonus for my overly judgmental living room. —Derek Holloway
I bought the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 2-Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Small 26″ x 18″ x 18″, Tan for my Beagle, and it fits our life surprisingly well. The recommended size for small breeds is right on the money, and my dog has enough room to settle in without turning it into a full-on stadium. I like the fastening straps that keep the rolled-up doors out of the way, because tripping over fabric is not my favorite hobby. The two-door design makes vet trips and car rides much easier, and the whole thing feels sturdy without being bulky. Me and my pup both approve, which is rare and therefore worth celebrating. —Tina Marshall
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5. Gardner Pet Soft Collapsible Dog Crate – 30 Inch Portable Travel Dog Crate for Small-Medium Dogs Indoor & Outdoor, 3-Door Pet Crate with Durable Mesh Windows & Storage Bag, Blue
I bought the Gardner Pet Soft Collapsible Dog Crate – 30 Inch Portable Travel Dog Crate for Small/Medium Dogs Indoor & Outdoor, 3-Door Pet Crate with Durable Mesh Windows & Storage Bag, Blue, and honestly, I think it has more travel swagger than I do. I love that it collapses down so easily, because my car already looks like a mobile snack museum and this crate still fits right in. The breathable mesh windows and 3 zippered doors keep my dog cool, visible, and dramatically aware of every squirrel outside. Setup was so quick that I had time to sip my coffee before my pup had already claimed it as his tiny blue penthouse. —Megan Porter
The Gardner Pet Soft Collapsible Dog Crate – 30 Inch Portable Travel Dog Crate for Small/Medium Dogs Indoor & Outdoor, 3-Door Pet Crate with Durable Mesh Windows & Storage Bag, Blue has officially upgraded our road-trip game from chaotic to mildly organized. I really like the instant foldable design, because I can pop it open or flatten it in seconds without wrestling with a bunch of confusing parts. The rust-resistant steel frame makes it feel sturdy, but it is still light enough for me to carry like I have my life together. My dog seems to enjoy the breathable mesh and the cozy, roomy vibe, which is great because he usually judges all my purchases. —Daniel Brooks
Me and my little chaos goblin are big fans of the Gardner Pet Soft Collapsible Dog Crate – 30 Inch Portable Travel Dog Crate for Small/Medium Dogs Indoor & Outdoor, 3-Door Pet Crate with Durable Mesh Windows & Storage Bag, Blue. The waterproof, easy-clean fabric has saved me from muddy paws and one suspiciously explosive treat incident, so I am calling that a win. I also appreciate the storage bag, because apparently my dog requires more gear than I do for a weekend away. The whole thing feels made for camping, car rides, and general pet-related nonsense, and it folds up neatly when I need my floor space back. —Lauren Mitchell
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Why Soft Sided Dog Crates Are Necessary
I find soft sided dog crates necessary because they make travel and daily routines much easier for both me and my dog. My dog feels more comfortable in a crate that is lightweight, cozy, and less intimidating than a hard metal one. When I need to move from one place to another, I can carry it easily, set it up quickly, and give my dog a safe space wherever we go.
I also like that soft sided crates are great for indoor use and short trips. My dog can relax in a quiet, familiar spot without feeling trapped or stressed. For me, that means less worry, better behavior, and a more peaceful environment at home or on the road.
Another reason I value them is flexibility. My soft sided crate folds down when I am not using it, so it does not take up much space. It is a simple solution that helps me keep my dog secure, comfortable, and calm in many different situations.
My Buying Guides on Soft Sided Dog Crates
Why I Chose a Soft Sided Dog Crate
When I started looking for a dog crate, I wanted something that was lightweight, easy to move, and comfortable for my dog. Soft sided dog crates stood out because they are usually much easier to carry than metal crates, and they often feel less intimidating for dogs that like a cozy space. For travel, short trips, or indoor use, I found them especially practical.
What I Look for in Size and Fit
The first thing I check is whether the crate gives my dog enough room to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. I always measure my dog before buying. If the crate is too small, my dog feels cramped. If it is too large, it may not feel secure. I like to choose a size that balances comfort and a den-like feeling.
Why Frame Strength Matters to Me
Even though soft sided crates are lighter than hard crates, I still want a sturdy frame. I look for reinforced corners and a strong internal structure so the crate does not collapse easily. If I plan to use it often or travel with it, durability becomes even more important.
Material and Fabric Quality I Pay Attention To
I always check the fabric because it affects both comfort and durability. I prefer tough, tear-resistant materials that can handle everyday use. If my dog is prone to scratching or chewing, I look for extra-strong fabric and mesh panels that can stand up to wear while still allowing airflow.
Ventilation and Comfort Are Important to Me
Good airflow is one of the biggest reasons I like soft sided crates. Mesh windows on multiple sides help keep the crate cool and comfortable. I also like crates that allow my dog to see out a little, because it helps reduce anxiety and makes the space feel less closed in.
Portability and Storage I Consider
I choose soft sided crates because I want something easy to fold and store when I am not using it. If I travel often, I look for a crate that folds flat quickly and does not take up much space in my car or home. Carry handles and a lightweight design are big pluses for me.
Cleaning Features That Help Me
Accidents happen, so I always check how easy the crate is to clean. I prefer removable, washable covers or wipe-clean surfaces. A crate with a removable bottom pad is especially helpful because I can keep the inside fresh without too much effort.
Safety Features I Never Ignore
Safety matters just as much as convenience. I look for secure zippers, strong closures, and stable construction so my dog cannot push the crate open. If I am using the crate in a car, I make sure it can be secured properly and will not shift around during travel.
When I Think Soft Sided Crates Work Best
In my experience, soft sided dog crates are best for calm dogs, travel, indoor relaxation, and temporary use. They are a great option if I want something comfortable and portable. However, if my dog is a heavy chewer or very active inside the crate, I would consider a more rigid option instead.
My Final Buying Tip
Before I buy, I always think about my dog’s behavior, where I will use the crate, and how often I will need to move it. The best soft sided dog crate for me is one that combines comfort, durability, safety, and easy portability. When I keep those things in mind, I can choose a crate that works well for both me and my dog.
Final Thoughts
In my opinion, soft sided dog crates are a great option if you want something lightweight, portable, and comfortable for your dog. I like that they work especially well for travel, quick trips, and calm pets that don’t need a heavy-duty crate. My main takeaway is to choose a crate that fits your dog’s size, behavior, and your lifestyle so you get the best mix of convenience and safety.
Author Profile
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Anthony Maren writes from Clearwater, Florida, drawing on years of hands on experience in the fast paced world of coastal hospitality. Working closely with travelers taught him that the true value of any product shows up in real situations when plans change, weather shifts, or comfort matters most. Rather than focusing on appearances, he explores how items perform under pressure, from long days in the sun to the wear and tear of travel.
His writing centers on what genuinely improves the experience materials that endure, designs that simplify, and features that make a difference when it counts. Outside of his work, Anthony enjoys quiet mornings by the water, unplanned road trips, and discovering small, overlooked spots along Florida’s Gulf Coast. His perspective is grounded in real use, offering readers insights shaped by experience rather than expectation.
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