Large Dog Travel Crates That Make Car Rides Safer
The Frisco Heavy Duty Fold and Carry Dog Crate is our top pick for most large pet owners. It offers a strong metal frame that keeps big dogs secure during travel. Its main advantage is the fold flat design for easy storage. The main limitation is that it is not crash tested like some pricier options.
Traveling with a large dog requires a crate that is both safe and comfortable. Many standard crates are too small or flimsy for big breeds. A good travel crate keeps your pet secure during car rides and provides a familiar space at your destination.
We looked at crates that are specifically designed for large pets. Some are meant for car use, while others work well for home and travel. Our list includes metal, soft sided, and crash tested options to meet different needs.
The best picks, ranked
Frisco Heavy Duty Fold and Carry Dog Crate
This Frisco crate is a favorite among owners of large breeds. It has a sturdy metal frame that holds up well during travel. The crate folds flat when not in use, making it easy to store in a car or closet. It comes in multiple sizes, including extra large for dogs up to 90 pounds.
Pros
- Very sturdy and secure for large dogs
- Folds flat for easy transport and storage
- Removable plastic tray for easy cleaning
Cons
- Not crash tested for car safety
- Heavy when assembled
MidWest LifeStages Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate
MidWest is a trusted name in dog crates. This double door model is durable and affordable. It features a divider panel so you can adjust the space as your puppy grows. The crate is easy to assemble and includes a leak proof tray.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Double doors for flexibility
- Divider panel for growing puppies
Cons
- Wires can bend with very strong dogs
- Not crash tested
EliteField 3 Door Folding Soft Dog Crate
The EliteField soft crate is perfect for travel when you need something lightweight. It has three doors for easy access and a sturdy frame that pops up quickly. The fabric is breathable and durable. It comes with a carrying bag for convenience.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Sets up in seconds
- Machine washable fabric
Cons
- Not suitable for chewers or escape artists
- Less protection in a car crash
Petmate Two Door Top Load Pet Kennel
Petmate makes a sturdy plastic kennel that meets most airline requirements. It has a top load door for easy access and a secure latch system. The kennel is well ventilated and has a comfortable handle. It is available in large sizes for big dogs.
Pros
- Meets airline cargo specifications
- Top load door for easy access
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Bulky and heavy
- Not collapsible
Ruffin It Large SUV Pet Crate
The Ruffin It crate is built specifically for use in SUVs and trucks. It is made of high impact plastic and has a steel frame for extra strength. The crate is designed to fit behind the back seat, and it includes a divider to create a smaller space if needed. It is crash tested by the manufacturer.
Pros
- Crash tested for safety
- Sturdy construction
- Designed to fit in SUVs
Cons
- Very heavy and hard to move
- Expensive
PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Car Crate
PetSafe Happy Ride is one of the few crates that has been crash tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety. It features a steel frame and impact resistant plastic. The crate has a spring loaded door that stays securely closed. It is available in sizes that fit large dogs.
Pros
- Highest safety rating in crash tests
- Sturdy and durable
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Very expensive
- Limited size range for extra large breeds
ProSelect Empire Dog Cage
The ProSelect Empire cage is designed for the biggest dogs. It is made of heavy gauge steel and has a reinforced frame. The cage features a double door and a removable pan. It is very sturdy and can hold up to 150 pounds.
Pros
- Extremely strong and durable
- Spacious for giant breeds
- Lockable doors for security
Cons
- Very heavy and not portable
- Not crash tested
Side by side
| # | Model | Material | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Frisco Heavy Duty Fold and Carry Dog Crate | All steel wire | Best Overall for Most Large Dogs | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | MidWest LifeStages Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate | Wire mesh | Best Value for Budget Conscious Owners | 9.0 | Check price |
| 3 | EliteField 3 Door Folding Soft Dog Crate | Polyester and mesh | Best Lightweight Portable Option | 8.7 | Check price |
| 4 | Petmate Two Door Top Load Pet Kennel | Durable plastic | Best for Airline Travel | 8.8 | Check price |
| 5 | Ruffin It Large SUV Pet Crate | Plastic and steel | Best for SUVs and Trucks | 9.2 | Check price |
| 6 | PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Car Crate | Steel and plastic | Best Crash Tested Option | 9.5 | Check price |
| 7 | ProSelect Empire Dog Cage | Heavy gauge steel | Best for Extra Large and Giant Breeds | 9.1 | Check price |
How to pick the right one
Good to know
What is the best dog crate for a large dog in a car?
Crash tested crates like the PetSafe Happy Ride are the best for car safety. They are designed to protect your dog in the event of an accident. If you are on a budget, a sturdy metal crate like the Frisco Heavy Duty is also a good option, but it is not crash tested.
How do I measure my dog for a crate?
Measure your dog’s length from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail. Also measure the height from the floor to the top of the head or ears when sitting. Add 2 to 4 inches to both measurements to find the minimum crate size.
Are soft sided crates safe for large dogs?
Soft sided crates are not recommended for dogs that are strong chewers or very anxious. They can tear the fabric and escape. They also provide little protection in a car crash. They are best for calm dogs that are already crate trained and for short trips.
Can I use a wire crate in the car?
Yes, wire crates are commonly used in cars, but they are not crash tested. To increase safety, secure the crate with heavy duty zip ties or straps. Make sure the crate is placed on a flat surface and does not slide around.
What is the best crate for a Great Dane?
For giant breeds like Great Danes, you need an extra large crate. The ProSelect Empire Dog Cage is a good choice because it has a large size and heavy gauge steel. However, if you drive frequently, consider a crash tested option that offers a large size, though most crash tested crates may not fit a Great Dane.
How do I clean a travel dog crate?
Most crates have removable trays or washable covers. Wire crates have a plastic tray that can be wiped down with a mild detergent. Soft sided crates have machine washable fabric. Plastic kennels can be hosed off. Always use pet safe cleaners.
Are airline approved crates the same as car travel crates?
No, airline approved crates are designed to meet specific requirements for air travel, such as ventilation and handles. They are often made of plastic and are not necessarily crash tested for cars. For car travel, you need a crate that is secured properly, while for air travel, the crate must fit under the seat or in cargo.
Can I use a dog crate for home and travel?
Yes, many crates are versatile. Folding wire crates are easy to move and can be used at home and in the car. However, if you need a crate for daily home use, a heavier duty model might be more suitable, while a lightweight soft crate is better for occasional trips.
What is the weight limit for large dog crates?
Weight limits vary by product. Some wire crates can support up to 110 pounds, while heavy duty cages can hold up to 150 pounds. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure your dog’s weight is within the limit.
Do I need to secure the crate in the car?
Yes, securing the crate is crucial for safety. Use seat belts, straps, or bungee cords to anchor the crate. This prevents it from moving in case of sudden stops or accidents. Some crates have built in mounting points for this purpose.
Final word
For most large dog owners, the PetSafe Happy Ride is the best choice if you prioritize safety and can afford the investment. It is crash tested and gives you peace of mind on the road. If you need a budget friendly option that is still sturdy, the Frisco Heavy Duty Fold and Carry Dog Crate is excellent. For giant breeds, the ProSelect Empire is the only option that truly fits, but it is not crash tested. Pick the PetSafe if you drive often; pick the Frisco if you need a versatile crate for home and travel.
