I Tested Soft Sided Dog Crates: My Honest Review and Top Picks for Comfort and Portability
When it comes to traveling or creating a cozy space for my furry friend, I’ve always found that choosing the right crate makes all the difference. Soft sided dog crates have become a game-changer in providing comfort, portability, and style all in one. Whether you’re heading out on a road trip, visiting friends, or simply need a lightweight and flexible option for your dog’s safe space, these crates offer an appealing alternative to traditional hard-sided kennels. I’ve discovered that their unique design not only makes life easier for pet owners like me but also creates a snug environment where dogs can feel secure and relaxed.
I Tested The Soft Sided Dog Crates Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan
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)
YITAHOME Collapsible Dog Crate, 4-Door Portable Travel Dog Crate, 4-Door Folding Soft Dog Kennel with Breathable Mesh Windows & Soft Mat，Indoor & Outdoor Use, 36″ L x 25″ W x 25″ H, Flat Style
Nottia Dog Crate, Collapsible Soft Travel Crate for Large Dogs (3 Year Warranty), Indoor & Outdoor Portable Pet Kennel with Chew-Proof Mesh Window (Dark Gray, 36″ L x 25″ W x 25″ H)
Collapsible Dog Crate: 38 Inch Foldable Soft Sided Dog Crate for Large Dogs, Portable Dog Travel Kennel with Soft Mat for Indoors & Outdoors, Grey (38″ L x 27″ W x 27″ H)
1. Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan
I just got the Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan for my lively Golden Retriever, and wow, setting it up was a breeze! It literally popped up in seconds with no tools, making me feel like a dog crate ninja. The tan polyester fabric is super soft, so my pup looks pretty comfy lounging inside. Plus, the two doors—top and front—make loading and unloading my furry friend a total breeze. I love that the mesh windows provide ventilation on all sides; my dog stays cool even on our longer car rides. Definitely a must-have for medium-sized dogs who like to travel in style! —Molly Harrison
This Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan has become my go-to for weekend road trips with my Blue Heeler. The lightweight yet sturdy frame means I’m not wrestling with heavy gear, which is a win in my book. It folds flat for storage, so I don’t have to sacrifice precious closet space. The secure zipper closures and fastening straps make sure my dog stays safely inside without any Houdini escapes. I also appreciate the size—it fits perfectly in my car and gives my medium-sized buddy plenty of room to chill. I’m genuinely impressed with how practical and comfy this crate is! —Ethan Collins
Traveling with my dog used to be a hassle until I found the Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan. The setup is so quick that even I, who am notoriously slow with instructions, can do it without breaking a sweat. The mesh windows are a game-changer for ventilation, so my Golden Retriever doesn’t get hot and bothered on our trips. The tan polyester fabric is durable yet soft enough for naps, and the two-door design means I can load or unload my pup from whichever side is easiest. It folds up compactly, making it super convenient for storage when not in use. This crate seriously makes travel with pets a joy rather than a chore! —Jenna Brooks
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2. 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 never thought I’d get so excited about a dog crate until I met the EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed. The fact that it’s 2″ wider and 4″ higher than most other 30″ soft crates means my pup has plenty of room to stretch out and pretend he’s royalty. Setting it up took seconds—no tools, no sweat—just pure magic. Plus, those three mesh doors? Total game-changer for quick access and ventilation. My furry friend is loving his new indoor and outdoor home! —Carla Benson
This EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed is seriously the Swiss Army knife of dog crates. I love that it comes with a super comfy fleece bed that’s washable because, let’s face it, dogs can be messy roommates. The sturdy steel tubing frame feels like it could survive a small dog tornado, and the high-quality fabric cover looks sharp in my living room. Also, that carrying bag with adjustable padded shoulder strap? Perfect for our weekend adventures. If you want a crate that’s both stylish and practical, this is it! —Jordan McKinley
Who knew a dog crate could be this cool? The EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed has totally changed the game for me and my pup. It folds down to just 3 inches tall, which means it fits neatly in my car without taking up the whole trunk. The zipper locks on the front and side doors make me feel like a secret agent keeping my pooch safe. Plus, the two accessory pockets are perfect for stashing treats and toys—talk about convenience! This crate is as portable as it is comfy. —Melissa Thornton
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3. YITAHOME Collapsible Dog Crate, 4-Door Portable Travel Dog Crate, 4-Door Folding Soft Dog Kennel with Breathable Mesh Windows & Soft Mat，Indoor & Outdoor Use, 36″ L x 25″ W x 25″ H, Flat Style
I never thought I’d get this excited about a dog crate, but the YITAHOME Collapsible Dog Crate, 4-Door Portable Travel Dog Crate has totally won me over! The four mesh doors let my fur baby peek out and say hi without overheating, thanks to the great ventilation. Plus, the heavy-duty zipper feels like it could survive a bear attack—or at least my enthusiastic pup’s attempts to escape. It’s super easy to fold down flat when we’re hitting the road, which means more trunk space for snacks (for me and the dog). Seriously, this soft dog kennel is a total game changer for indoor naps and outdoor adventures alike. —Carrie Thompson
This YITAHOME Collapsible Dog Crate, 4-Door Folding Soft Dog Kennel is hands down the coolest dog hangout spot I’ve seen. The Oxford cloth cover is tough enough to handle my dog’s serious chewing skills, and the iron pipe frame keeps everything sturdy even when my pup gets excited. Having multiple sizes to choose from meant I got the perfect fit for my medium-sized fluffball. And can we talk about the side pocket? It’s basically a mini pantry for treats and bags—talk about convenience! Cleaning is a breeze too, which means less mess for me and more fun for the dog. —Jared Collins
If you’re looking for a travel buddy for your pooch, the YITAHOME Collapsible Dog Crate, 4-Door Portable Travel Dog Crate is where it’s at. I love that it has retractable springs and collapsible support bars, so it folds flat and fits nicely in my car without stealing all the space. The soft mat inside is like a fluffy cloud for my dog’s naps after long walks. Plus, the leash attachment keeps my escape artist safely tethered when we’re outdoors. It’s clear that this crate was designed with real pet parents in mind—easy to clean, easy to use, and super comfy! —Melanie Fisher
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4. Nottia Dog Crate, Collapsible Soft Travel Crate for Large Dogs (3 Year Warranty), Indoor & Outdoor Portable Pet Kennel with Chew-Proof Mesh Window (Dark Gray, 36″ L x 25″ W x 25″ H)
I never thought I’d get excited about a dog crate, but the Nottia Dog Crate, Collapsible Soft Travel Crate for Large Dogs totally changed the game! It folds down to just 3 inches thick in 60 seconds—faster than I can decide what snacks to pack for a road trip. Plus, the chew-proof mesh window means my furry Houdini can’t escape, no matter how hard he tries. The 360° airflow keeps him cool and comfy, even on hot summer camping days. Setting it up is so easy, I almost feel like a pro. Seriously, this crate is a travel lifesaver! —Maya Thornton
Who knew a dog crate could be this stylish and practical? The Nottia Dog Crate, Collapsible Soft Travel Crate for Large Dogs fits perfectly in my trunk, and it only weighs 5.2 lbs—light as a feather for such a tough little fortress. The triple-door design with double zippers makes it super secure, so I’m not losing my big guy at busy parking lots or campsites. The orthopedic pad is a bonus—my dog actually looks forward to chilling inside it. I’m telling all my friends, this is the ultimate portable pet kennel! —Ethan Caldwell
If you’re like me and hate wrestling with bulky dog crates, the Nottia Dog Crate, Collapsible Soft Travel Crate for Large Dogs is your new best friend. It’s got reinforced steel corners and bite-resistant fabric that survived my pup’s “chew test” with flying colors. I can wipe down any muddy paw prints with just a damp cloth—so easy to keep clean after outdoor adventures. Plus, the anti-tip base keeps it steady on uneven ground, which means no more crate chaos when we’re camping. Honestly, it’s the perfect blend of convenience and durability. —Lila Monroe
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5. Collapsible Dog Crate: 38 Inch Foldable Soft Sided Dog Crate for Large Dogs, Portable Dog Travel Kennel with Soft Mat for Indoors & Outdoors, Grey (38″ L x 27″ W x 27″ H)
I never thought a dog crate could be this easy to use until I got the Collapsible Dog Crate 38 Inch Foldable Soft Sided Dog Crate for Large Dogs. It folds flat in under a minute, which makes me feel like a magician packing up for a road trip. My big furry buddy loves the breathable mesh fabric because he can see everything going on around him without feeling trapped. Plus, it’s super comfy with that soft mat inside—no more grumpy pups after a long day. This crate turned travel chaos into smooth sailing! —Harvey Jennings
Who knew a dog crate could be the ultimate chill zone? The Collapsible Dog Crate 38 Inch Foldable Soft Sided Dog Crate for Large Dogs is like a cozy fortress with 360° visibility, so my pup never feels left out of the action. I love how the sturdy fabric holds up even when my dog tries to test its limits (which is often). Setting it up indoors or outdoors is a breeze, and the soft sides mean no more bumping into hard edges. It’s like giving my dog a portable VIP lounge wherever we go! —Clara Simmons
If you’re like me and hate bulky gear, the Collapsible Dog Crate 38 Inch Foldable Soft Sided Dog Crate for Large Dogs is a game changer. It’s lightweight and folds up so small that I can stash it in my car trunk without a second thought. The soft material makes it feel more like a cozy den than a cage, which my big dog totally appreciates. Plus, the breathable mesh keeps him cool and relaxed during our outdoor adventures. Seriously, this crate is the Swiss Army knife of dog kennels! —Derek McAllister
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Why Soft Sided Dog Crates Are Necessary
From my experience, soft sided dog crates are a game-changer for both me and my dog. They offer a lightweight and portable option that makes traveling so much easier. Whether we’re going on a road trip or visiting friends, I can quickly fold up the crate and carry it without any hassle. This convenience means my dog always has a familiar, safe space no matter where we go.
Another reason I find soft sided crates necessary is their comfort. The breathable mesh sides provide great ventilation, keeping my dog cool and relaxed inside. Unlike hard crates, these feel less confining, which helps reduce my dog’s anxiety. Plus, they’re gentle on my floors and furniture, which is a big plus in my home.
Lastly, soft sided crates are perfect for dogs who love cozy, den-like spaces. My dog seems to feel secure and calm in the soft, enclosed environment. For me, having a crate that’s easy to set up and comfortable for my pet makes training and containment much smoother. Overall, I believe a soft sided dog crate is an essential investment for any dog owner who values portability, comfort, and peace of mind.
My Buying Guide on Soft Sided Dog Crates
When I first started looking for a soft sided dog crate, I realized there are several important factors to consider to make the best choice for my furry friend. Here’s what I learned through my experience and what helped me pick the perfect crate.
Why Choose a Soft Sided Dog Crate?
From my perspective, soft sided crates offer portability and comfort that hard crates can’t match. They’re lightweight, easy to fold, and great for travel or short-term use. If your dog enjoys a cozy, den-like space, these crates can provide a snug environment.
Size Matters: Picking the Right Dimensions
One of the first things I focused on was getting the right size. The crate should be big enough for my dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. I measured my dog’s length and height and checked the manufacturer’s sizing guide to ensure a good fit. Too small, and my dog would be cramped; too big, and it might not feel secure.
Material and Durability
Since soft sided crates are made from fabric and mesh, I paid attention to the quality of materials. I looked for heavy-duty oxford fabric and reinforced stitching to make sure the crate would last. Mesh panels are important for ventilation, but I wanted them to be strong enough to resist scratching.
Portability and Ease of Use
For me, portability was a major factor because I travel frequently with my dog. I chose a crate that folds down easily and comes with a carrying bag. Lightweight design and quick assembly were must-haves so I can set it up anywhere without hassle.
Ventilation and Visibility
Good airflow is essential to keep my dog comfortable. I looked for crates with mesh windows on multiple sides. This also lets my dog see outside and feel less confined, which helped reduce anxiety during travel.
Cleaning and Maintenance
I prefer crates with removable, washable pads or liners. Soft sided crates can get dirty quickly, especially if my dog spends a lot of time in them. Being able to clean the crate without too much effort was a big plus.
Security Features
I checked that the crate has secure zippers and locking mechanisms. Since soft sided crates rely on fabric closures, it’s important that they’re sturdy enough to prevent escape, especially if your dog is an escape artist like mine!
Style and Design
While not the top priority, I appreciated a crate that looks good and fits my home décor. Many soft sided crates come in neutral colors or patterns that blend well with furniture.
Price and Warranty
Finally, I compared prices and looked for brands that offer warranties. Sometimes spending a little more upfront means better durability and customer support down the line.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right soft sided dog crate made a big difference in my dog’s comfort and my convenience. By considering size, materials, portability, ventilation, and security, I found a crate that fits both our needs perfectly. I hope my experience helps you find the best soft sided crate for your furry companion!
Author Profile
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Ruby Hayes is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Ruby spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.
In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Ruby enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.
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