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Best Dog Car Crates and Carriers for 2022

If you have ever been to a certain flatpack furniture store and tried to get everything home in your car, you may have realised that the boot can’t really hold large, cubic objects which weren’t designed around its shape. Cue a boot door that won’t shut.

This makes fitting a conventional metal dog training crate into this space quite a challenge, too. A dedicated dog car crate is slanted so you can shut the door and carriers are designed especially to fit inside the majority of cars so the door is able to shut without you having to compromise on space.

When you’re choosing a crate or a carrier, you need to consider the level of safety that the product offers, the size of your car, and the size of your dog. To see our overall pick of the best dog car crates, read our reviews below.

We’ve also written about soft dog crates here, and our guide to the best dog crates can be found here.

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    Our Top Picks

    Image Product Details
    A R North America Inc Variocage Single Crash Tested Dog Cage
    • Adjustable size
    • Safety openings in case of crash
    Check Price
    COZY PET Deluxe Car Dog Cage
    • Universal size for most cars
    • Black finish prevents rust and glare
    • One of the most lightweight on the market - good if you need to move it regularly
    Check Price
    4pets ECO Dog Crate for Cars Grey
    • Strong build
    • Anodized bars to prevent rusting
    • Easy to assemble and specifically made for use in the boot of the car
    Check Price

    Top 10 Best Dog Car Boot Crates and Carriers Reviewed

    1.
    PawHut Metal Collapsible Car Dog Cage Crate

    A sloping crate is the best option for cars, as it will still allow you to shut the car boot door. This crate is metal, with a powder-coated finish, so it won’t be affected by rust or damage in the long term. Ideal if you’ll have to wipe it clean regularly because of muddy walks.

    The gaps between the bars are wide enough to allow your dog to feel like they aren’t trapped, but small enough to prevent escapes or trapped paws. You also get a plastic bottom tray, so you can pop their bed in there for comfort on long trips or leave it out for muddy walks which means easy cleaning and disinfecting.

    We found it simple to remove the tray and wash it in the garden with the hose, but also wipe it clean with a disinfectant wipe in between. A top handle helps if you need to carry or move the crate and it will hold a dog up to 10kg.

    We also really rated the fact it is collapsible, so when you need the boot for the big supermarket shop it isn’t a faff to bring into the house and store. When you’re ready to go on another trip, we also found it one of the easiest to build up again.

    Features

    • Specially designed for hatchback and estate type cars
    • Good for smaller dogs
    • Strong metal cage to prevent rust

    Specifications

    • Dimensions: 76 x 48 x 55cm
    • Weight: 6.2kg

    2.
    A R North America Inc Variocage Single Crash Tested Dog Cage

    The Variocage Crash Tested Car Crate is an innovative range of dog crates which have been tested in crash and roll-over situations. In fact, it is the only one on the market which passed Front, Rear and Roll-Over Crash Tests.

    They include a crumple zone. This range includes single and double doors, as well as dog crates designed for hatchbacks and also for the smaller dog. Each cage is size adjustable so you can get it just right to a point, as well.

    In the case of an accident, a trapped dog can be released via the unique escape hatch so you can ensure they are safe and don’t have to remain within the car for longer than needed. The locking doors with Gas Hydraulic Motion Springs will keep your pet secure when they’re in the cage, so they can’t work their way out and end up as a distraction.

    Each cage is equipped with rubber carpet for comfort, quietness, and ease of cleaning in case of any accidents or muddy paws.

    Features

    • Adjustable size
    • Safety openings in case of crash

    Specifications

    • Dimensions: 99 x 55.5 x 59 cm
    • Weight: 17kg

    3.
    COZY PET Deluxe Car Dog Cage

    This car cage is a pretty universal size, so will be able to fit into most makes and models of car. The front slants, but not to an extreme level, so your boot door can shut but your dog still has ample room.

    There are two doors, one of which at the back acting as an escape door so if your car is hit from the back, your dog can still get out. The black colour cuts down on window glare and it comes with an ABS tray which we found was easy to clean, doesn’t get hot and is still relatively comfortable.

    If you aren’t quite sure that this model will fit in your car, there are other options available at varying dimensions so one should be suitable. When we collapsed it, it went down relatively easy and is narrow enough to potentially give you some room at the side for any bags from the supermarket.

    Features

    • Universal size for most cars
    • Black finish prevents rust and glare
    • One of the most lightweight on the market - good if you need to move it regularly

    Specifications

    • Dimensions: 62 x 44.5 x 49.5 cm
    • Weight: 4.2kg

    4.
    Trixie 3930 Transport Cage

    With a removable divider included, this would be a good crate for two dogs or for a puppy who will eventually grow into the full size.

    Galvanised wire is strong, and you get a removable tray which will capture any accidents and can also be padded out with bedding.

    When it isn’t in use, the whole thing is collapsible, so you can remove it and store it in the garage or hallway when you’re off to do the weekly food shop.

    You can pick from six size choices, making it the best dog car crate for dimension options, but the upper size is by far the biggest we found. The only downside is that the larger options don’t have a slanted side, so you will also need to have a big car.

    Features

    • Divider optional
    • Strong build

    Specifications

    • Dimensions: 6 Choices
    • Weight: Varies

    5.
    A R North America Inc Variocage Double Crash Tested Dog Cage

    Transporting two dogs in one crate can be hard enough, but minimising the risk of injury if there is a crash can be even harder.

    This is the infamous Variocage but now made with two sections, so both dogs are safe from crashes and from the impact affecting each other. The emergency escape hatch at the rear will come in handy if you suffer a bump from the back, as the back seats can be taken forward and the dogs still released.

    There’s a built-in key lock for extra safety, so any dogs which have mastered the old bar slider door lock will not be able to demonstrate their skills on this. It has passed the stringent crash test safety standards established by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe, so don’t just take our word for how safe it is!

    Features

    • Plenty of space for two dogs
    • Impossible for dogs to get out of

    Specifications

    • Dimensions: 103 x 93 x 65 cm
    • Weight: 34kg

    6.
    Gen7 Commuter

    Another carrier that’s been put through the test, the Gen7 Commuter also received a 50star rating from the Centre For Pet Safety protecting dogs up to 20 Ibs. It’s fitted with seatbelt straps throughout and is made from heavy-duty ballistic nylon.

    Features

    • Industry approved for dogs up tp 20 Ibs
    • Folds flat for easy convenience
    • Industrial-grade stitching for added durability

    Specifications

    • Dimensions: 2.54 x 2.54 x 2.54 cm
    • Weight: 1.36kg

    7.
    Ferplast Atlas 80 Professional Dog Carrier

    As leaders in pet products, Ferplast is a brand that you can rely on for a quality dog crate, so we were excited to try this one. Thankfully, the Atlas 80 Professional Dog Carrier is no different. It’s specially designed for large dogs (although smaller sizes are available too) and has a range of features that shows a clear focus on safety and attention to detail.

    The net door on the carrier conforms to the current IATA regulations regarding the transportation of domestic animals. The door is solid and made from plastic-coated steel for extra durability and benefits from a small food or water bowl attached as well. The side grids ensure proper air circulation for your dog’s safety too.

    We were sceptical about the design initially, as it isn’t as ‘open’ as fully wire crates. Therefore, it may not be ideal for any dogs who want to be able to see the world and instead is best for dogs who would get quite nervous in the car and would benefit from not being able to see out. We also found it hard to store as it doesn’t collapse down like a wire crate, but this shouldn’t be an issue if you have the space or will be using it outside the car.

    Features

    • Safe and easy to use closing system
    • Suitable for Large Dogs

    Specifications

    • Dimensions: 88 x 80 x 118cm
    • Weight: 6-8kg

    8.
    4pets ECO Dog Crate for Cars Grey

    There are a lot of reasons to be impressed when it comes to this car crate. Not only does it come in three sizes making it suitable for all cars and sizes of dogs, but its crash-test approved and certified by the TUV SUD Germany and has been designed with safety and usability in mind.

    The twist-lock latch means that the door can be operated with one hand, leaving your other hand free to hold the dog in place, while the specially engineered construction ensures the crate won’t rattle or make any distracting noises while you drive. And since the crate benefits from an IPS back wall, double dock locking system and aluminium bars as well as fibreglass-reinforced plastic connectors, you can rest assured the crate has been built to withstand impact.

    Features

    • Strong build
    • Anodized bars to prevent rusting
    • Easy to assemble and specifically made for use in the boot of the car

    Specifications

    • Dimensions: Small - 54.4 x 54.5 x 73.5cm; Medium - 66 x 68 x 83.5cm; Large - 66 x 81.5 x 93.5cm
    • Weight: 17 kg, 40kg, 50kg

    9.
    Ellie-Bo Deluxe Sloping Puppy Cage

    At just 24 “, this crate is ideal for owners with small cars and small dogs. It folds flat for added convenience and also comes with fleece cushioning for a little extra comfort.

    The steel tray is non-chew and removable just in case you need to clean it and the sloping front is designed to ensure your boot closes with ease. While this crate will fit most cars, we don’t recommend using a smaller crate in a big car (to prevent it from moving) and it’s always necessary to measure your boot before you buy.

    The fleece cushioning is a really nice bonus, and we think it is great for anyone who doesn’t want to use their dog’s regular bed in case of accidents. It also fits snugly so won’t move like a blanket would.

    We did have to use pliers to tighten the hinges and stop it from rattling, however, which is something to bear in mind before your first big trip.

    Features

    • Slimmer design for space in boot
    • Heavy duty latch for secure locking

    Specifications

    • Dimensions: 62 x 49 x 17 cm
    • Weight: 7.64kg

    Buying Guide

    How we rated the best dog crates

    Finding a car crate can be tricky. You have to balance three things – the space available in your car, the size of your dog, and the safety and security of your dog.

    We wanted to find a range of sizes to make your search easier, as well as different shapes depending on your boot shape. After all, it will be easier to find a crate for a Land Rover with a flat back than an estate car with a slanted bot door.

    While finding the right shape and size is mostly in your hands, there were other things we looked at. The ability to get your dog in and out easily was a big concern, so we looked for crates with large doors. Crates with doors at the front and back was also a big concern, in case you cannot open the boot door and still need to get your pooch to safety.

    Then there were the obvious things, like how secure the latches were and how chew-proof the wire is. All of those on our list passed the test, but there were many that didn’t so it always pays to look at other reviews and experiences.

    Other Buyers Ask...

    Do I really need a dog car crate?

    According to the Highway Code, you need to ensure all animals are suitably constrained within a vehicle so they can’t distract you while you are driving, or injure anyone in the car.

    There are no rules on how exactly this is done, however. A car boot crate is good if your car is otherwise full of passengers, or if you know your dog will be restless or do all they can to distract you. You should not take your eyes off the road to check on them.

    So, if you’re unsure about them travelling inside the car, a crate will give you peace of mind that they’re secure and safe.

    Are there any alternatives to dog car crates?

    If your car is small, your dog is too large, or you don’t like the idea of them being in the boot, you may wish to opt for an alternative method of getting them around.

    Car seatbelt clips or harnesses are the best way to transport your dog if you want them to sit on the back seat, without any restrictions or cages. You can also purchase boot guards which close off the open part between the boot and back seat, so they can’t jump over the seats but have the maximum amount of space possible in the boot.

    Of course, this can mean that they aren’t as secure when it comes to things like emergency braking, or if they’re generally restless, so a cage would be good for any dogs who move around a lot.

    Which material should I go for?

    The majority of dog crates are metal wire. Your dog can see out, the cage is easy to keep clean and they are the most secure option so your dog’s movement is restricted.

    Some crates are hard plastic and give more of a ‘closed’ environment. There is the option of a soft dog crate, too. These could be good for any dogs who get car sick so you need to restrict their movement and visibility, or if you will need to use a crate at the chosen destination and don’t want to carry a bulky metal cage around.

    Soft crates can also be good for boots that are odd shapes, or if you want something which can be used on the car seats and adapt to shapes. Bear in mind they’re harder to look after and clean should the dog have any accidents, however.

    Why do some car crates have two doors?

    Most cages will have a door that you can open once your car boot is open. But many also have a second door, which is either at the top of the cage or rear.

    If you were unable to open the boot for some reason, such as a car accident or parking restrictions, you will still be able to access your dog by folding down the back car seats or reaching over. This could be worth thinking about as a safety issue.

    Will a dog car crate fit into my boot?

    A cage that just about fits into a Range Rover will not squeeze into a Ford Ka.

    It is important to measure the width of your boot, taking into account any bits which stick out or aren’t entirely flat. You should also measure the space between the door and back seat, and take into account whether the shape and slant of your boot door will have an effect on the shape of the crate you can buy.

    Crates can also be placed onto a back seat and fastened using seat belts or straps, but do remember that there is a good chance your seats aren’t entirely flat and this could cause a bit of wobbling. Unfortunately, if your car is on the smaller side, you may not be able to find a suitable option.

    Will my dog fit into a car crate?

    It is all well and good to get a crate that fits perfectly in your car boot, but you need to ensure your dog can then comfortably fit into the said crate.

    The height of the crate should at least go up to their neck, so they can lie down comfortably. While most other items need to be quite roomy, you shouldn’t give your dog too much vertical space as they could jump up, get thrown around or fall over when you’re driving due to sudden movements.

    The width should match their length when they’re lying down. This will encourage them to do this, so they are safe.

    If you’re buying a crate for a puppy but don’t want to have to buy another model in a few months when they have grown, try a crate with a divider. This way, you can restrict space but increase it when the time is ready, without having to buy a whole new crate.

    Can I fasten a dog car crate to my boot?

    A big question is how to secure your crate to the boot. This could be a good idea if your boot is larger than the crate and you know your car journey involves some bends and traffic as opposed to a flat, smooth motorway.

    A few bungee cables or something similar could help it to attach to any Isofix points in the boot, or around car headrests. You may also wish to pad out the rest of the free space with cushions, bags or something similar so the cage can’t move.

    My dog suffers from travel sickness – can a crate help?

    A car crate will restrict the amount which your dog can move around, which in turn is said to reduce the likelihood of motion sickness.

    A crate with solid, closed sides (like a plastic crate) can also help reduce visibility which is said to help travel sickness, but open crates can also be covered with a blanket or towel.