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10 Best Dog Carriers 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Amazon Basics Dog Crate, Travel Dog Kennel Double Door Collapsible, Lightweight Soft-Sided Folding, Portable Dog Cage, XL 42" x 31" x 31", Tan

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,397
Size
Material
Ventilation

Most important from
18081 reviews

Size
Perfect for a growing puppy, with ample space and easy portability.
Material
Material quality is more than adequate, providing great value for the money.
Ventilation
Good ventilation and easy to clean, making it a practical choice.
Portability
Lightweight and easy to set up, making it perfect for travel.

The Amazon Basics Dog Crate is designed to keep your furry friend safe and comfortable during travels. Built with a lightweight yet sturdy steel frame and polyester fabric, this soft-sided dog crate is particularly convenient for its collapsible design, setting up in seconds without any tools and folding flat for easy storage and portability. The extra-large size (42 x 31 x 31 inches) makes it suitable for large breed dogs up to 90 pounds, such as Great Danes and Bernese Mountain Dogs, but it is important to note that it is recommended for crate-trained dogs only.

Ventilation is a strong point with mesh windows on all four sides and a front door, ensuring your pet gets plenty of fresh air. The crate features two doors—one on the top and one on the front—for straightforward loading and unloading. It also has secure zipper closures and fastening straps to keep rolled-up doors in place.

This dog crate offers excellent portability and convenience, but potential buyers should be aware that it may not be suitable for dogs who are not used to being in a crate, as it is made of soft materials that might not withstand rough behavior. The tan color and aesthetics of the crate are also a plus for those looking for a visually pleasing option. In essence, it's a practical choice for pet owners seeking a portable, well-ventilated, and comfortable travel crate for their large, crate-trained dogs.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,397
Size
Material
Ventilation

Most important from
18081 reviews

Size
Perfect for a growing puppy, with ample space and easy portability.
Material
Material quality is more than adequate, providing great value for the money.
Ventilation
Good ventilation and easy to clean, making it a practical choice.
Portability
Lightweight and easy to set up, making it perfect for travel.
#2

Petmate Large Breeds Dog Kennel, Various Sizes, Dark Gray/Black, Made in USA

Rating
10.0
Size
Material

Most important from
7800 reviews

Size
The kennel's size and sturdy build make it perfect for accommodating larger pets comfortably.
Material
Its robust construction ensures durability even after years of use.

The Petmate Large Breeds Dog Kennel is designed to cater to larger dogs, accommodating pets up to 90 lbs. With dimensions of 40" L x 27" W x 30" H, it offers ample space for your pet, making it suitable for comfortable long-term use. The material used is a blend, providing decent durability. One notable feature is its easy-open latch, allowing you to open the kennel with one hand, which is convenient for quick access.

The kennel also includes side vents to promote healthy airflow, ensuring your pet stays well-ventilated during travel or at home. This Petmate kennel meets most airline cargo specifications, making it a good choice for air travel as well. At 24 lbs, it’s relatively lightweight for its size, enhancing its portability. However, the kennel's bulkiness might make it less convenient for those looking for a more compact option for frequent travel.

Safety-wise, the kennel offers a secure environment, but some users might find the material less sturdy compared to more premium models. Comfort is adequately addressed with its spacious interior, although additional bedding might be needed for extended comfort. This kennel is particularly beneficial for large breed dog owners seeking a reliable travel and home solution, but might not be the best option for those prioritizing compactness or top-tier material strength.

Rating
10.0
Size
Material

Most important from
7800 reviews

Size
The kennel's size and sturdy build make it perfect for accommodating larger pets comfortably.
Material
Its robust construction ensures durability even after years of use.
#3

Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed — Multi-use Travel Pet Bed, Crash-Tested Car Seat, & Carrier for Dogs and Cats up to 15 Pounds (Jet Black)

Rating
9.1
Size
Material
Safety Features

Most important from
223 reviews

Size
The carrier is roomy enough to comfortably fit small cats, providing ample space for them to rest during travel or vet visits.
Material
Its design allows for easy dismantling and thorough cleaning, which is especially helpful after accidents or spills.
Safety Features
The carrier secures easily with car seat belts, giving peace of mind for safe transportation.
Comfort
The soft, washable inner lining adds comfort and can be removed for cleaning or to add warming pads.

The Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed is a versatile carrier designed for small dogs and cats up to 15 pounds. It serves three purposes: a comfy everyday bed, a crash-tested car seat for safety during travel, and a carrier with a removable mesh dome. The size (17 x 17 x 13 inches) is suitable for small breeds, offering enough room without being bulky. Its outer material is luggage-grade nylon, which is durable, while the inside is lined with soft polyester for comfort. The mesh panels on three sides provide good ventilation so your pet can breathe easily and see outside, which helps reduce anxiety. Portability is a plus here—the carrier includes a padded shoulder strap and a handle on the dome for easy carrying. It weighs about 8.4 pounds, which is a bit on the heavier side for a small carrier, but that weight contributes to its sturdiness and safety features.

One of its strongest points is the crash-tested design, giving peace of mind to pet owners who travel by car. The removable, washable bedding makes cleaning simple, and the water-resistant foam liner can handle minor spills. On the downside, the carrier might feel a bit heavy if you plan on carrying it for long periods, and its size limits it to only small pets, so it's not versatile for larger dogs. Also, while the mesh is chew-resistant, very determined chewers might still cause damage over time. For those seeking a reliable, multi-functional carrier especially focused on travel safety and comfort for small pets, the Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed is a strong choice.

Rating
9.1
Size
Material
Safety Features

Most important from
223 reviews

Size
The carrier is roomy enough to comfortably fit small cats, providing ample space for them to rest during travel or vet visits.
Material
Its design allows for easy dismantling and thorough cleaning, which is especially helpful after accidents or spills.
Safety Features
The carrier secures easily with car seat belts, giving peace of mind for safe transportation.
Comfort
The soft, washable inner lining adds comfort and can be removed for cleaning or to add warming pads.

Buying Guide for the Best Dog Carriers

Choosing the right dog carrier is essential for ensuring your pet's comfort and safety during travel. Whether you're taking a trip to the vet, going on a road trip, or flying, the right carrier can make all the difference. When selecting a dog carrier, consider your dog's size, temperament, and the type of travel you'll be doing. Here are some key specifications to help you make the best choice for your furry friend.
SizeSize is one of the most important factors when choosing a dog carrier. A carrier that's too small can be uncomfortable and stressful for your dog, while one that's too large can be difficult to carry and may not provide the sense of security your dog needs. Measure your dog from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail and from the top of the head to the ground. Add a few inches to these measurements to ensure your dog has enough room to turn around and lie down comfortably. For small dogs, a compact carrier may be sufficient, while larger dogs will need a more spacious option.
MaterialThe material of the dog carrier affects its durability, comfort, and ease of cleaning. Common materials include hard plastic, soft fabric, and metal. Hard plastic carriers are sturdy and provide good protection, making them ideal for air travel. Soft fabric carriers are lightweight and often more comfortable for the dog, but they may not be as durable. Metal carriers are very strong and secure but can be heavy. Consider your dog's behavior and the type of travel you'll be doing when choosing the material.
VentilationProper ventilation is crucial to ensure your dog gets enough fresh air while in the carrier. Look for carriers with plenty of mesh panels or ventilation holes. This is especially important for long trips or warm climates. Carriers with good ventilation will help keep your dog cool and comfortable. If your dog tends to get anxious, a carrier with more enclosed sides might help them feel more secure, but make sure there is still adequate airflow.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to carry the dog carrier. Consider features like handles, shoulder straps, and wheels. If you plan to carry the carrier by hand, look for one with comfortable, padded handles. Shoulder straps can help distribute the weight more evenly, making it easier to carry for longer periods. Carriers with wheels are great for larger dogs or if you have to walk long distances. Think about how you will be transporting the carrier and choose one that suits your needs.
Safety FeaturesSafety features are essential to keep your dog secure during travel. Look for carriers with strong, reliable zippers or latches that your dog can't easily open. Some carriers have built-in seatbelt loops or straps to secure the carrier in a car. For air travel, make sure the carrier meets airline regulations, which often include specific safety requirements. Consider your dog's behavior and the type of travel you'll be doing to determine which safety features are most important.
ComfortComfort is key to ensuring your dog has a pleasant experience in the carrier. Look for carriers with soft, padded interiors or add a comfortable mat or blanket. Some carriers have removable, washable liners, which can make cleaning easier. If your dog will be spending a lot of time in the carrier, make sure it has enough padding and support. Consider your dog's preferences and any special needs they may have, such as extra padding for older dogs or those with joint issues.

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