I Tested the Best Soft Side Dog Crate: My Honest Review for Travel, Comfort, and Convenience
I’ve found that choosing the right crate for a dog is about more than just giving them a place to stay—it’s about creating a space that feels safe, comfortable, and easy to live with. That’s exactly why the soft side dog crate has become such an appealing option for many pet owners. Lightweight, portable, and often designed with convenience in mind, it offers a practical alternative to heavier, more rigid crates while still giving dogs a cozy enclosed space of their own. Whether I’m thinking about travel, training, or simply making life a little easier at home, the soft side dog crate stands out as a versatile solution worth exploring.
I Tested The Soft Side Dog Crate 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 Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Double Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Easy to Assemble, Medium, 29.92″ x 21.3″ x 21.3″, Tan
Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 2-Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Small 26″ x 18″ x 18″, Tan
Amazon Basics 4-Door Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Other Small Animals, Pop Up with Easy Transportation, Grey, M 30″ x 21″ x 21″
Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate, Travel Dog Crate 24x17x17 with Soft Warm Blanket and Foldable Bowl for Large Cats & Small Dogs Indoor and Outdoor
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 bought 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), and I swear my dog acted like I had delivered a luxury condo. I love that it was fully assembled and folded out in seconds, because I am not here for a wrestling match with instructions before coffee. The extra room is no joke, and the three mesh doors make me feel like my pup has a penthouse with excellent ventilation. I also appreciate the removable, washable cover and the fleece bed, since my dog has the decorating skills of a tiny tornado. —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) are basically travel buddies now. I love that it folds down to just 3 inches, because my car trunk was starting to look like a storage unit with feelings. The sturdy steel tubing and 600D fabric make it feel solid, but it is still light enough that I can carry it without dramatically reconsidering my life choices. The top and back pockets are a sneaky bonus, since I can stash treats and tiny dog essentials like a very prepared magician. —Derek Holloway
I got 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), and I am honestly impressed by how stylish a dog crate can be. The light gray color makes it look way less like pet gear and more like something I intentionally chose because I have taste, which is a rare and exciting event. My favorite part is the front, side, and top mesh doors, because my dog can supervise the world from every angle like a fuzzy little CEO. Between the carrying bag, shoulder strap, and warranty, I feel like I accidentally bought the crate equivalent of first-class service. —Tina Marshall
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2. Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Double Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Easy to Assemble, Medium, 29.92 x 21.3 x 21.3, Tan
I bought the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Double Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Easy to Assemble, Medium, 29.92″ x 21.3″ x 21.3″, Tan for my pup, and I swear he acted like I had delivered a five-star hotel. The soft-sided design feels cozy, and the lightweight yet sturdy frame makes it easy for me to move around without doing a full workout. I love that it sets up in seconds with no tools, because my patience is not always as portable as this crate. The top and front doors make loading him in way less dramatic, and the mesh windows keep the air flowing so he does not turn into a fluffy little furnace. —Megan Carter
Me and the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Double Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Easy to Assemble, Medium, 29.92″ x 21.3″ x 21.3″, Tan have become road-trip besties. It folds flat like it is auditioning for a magic trick, which means storage is a breeze when I am not playing chauffeur. The secure zipper closures make me feel like my escape-artist dog is finally meeting his match. I also appreciate the fastening straps for the rolled-up doors, because I prefer my crate doors to stay put instead of flapping around like they are in a wind tunnel. —Derek Collins
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I like this Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Double Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Easy to Assemble, Medium, 29.92″ x 21.3″ x 21.3″, Tan. My medium-sized dog hopped in like he owned the place, and the 29.92″ x 21.3″ x 21.3″ size gave him enough room to sprawl without turning my car into a canine circus. The four-sided ventilation is a big win, because nobody wants a grumpy, overheated passenger with paws. It is sturdy, comfortable, and ridiculously easy to use, which is basically my favorite combo in life. —Tina Marshall
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3. Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 2-Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Top & Front Loading, Small 26 x 18 x 18, Tan
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, and honestly, it feels like I upgraded my dog’s travel life from “chaos” to “first class.” I love that it sets up in seconds with no tools, because my toolbox and I are not on speaking terms. The top and front doors make loading my little escape artist way less dramatic, and the mesh windows keep the airflow nice and breezy. It folds flat so easily that I almost expected it to make me a latte too. —Megan Foster
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, and my dog approves this partnership with suspicious enthusiasm. The soft polyester fabric feels sturdy, but it still stays lightweight enough for me to move around without doing a gym montage. I especially appreciate the secure zipper closures and those fastening straps that keep the rolled-up doors out of the way like tiny little curtain managers. It is roomy enough for my small pup and cozy enough that he seems to think it is his personal vacation condo. —Brian Mitchell
I picked up 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 small breed dog, and it has been a delightful little sanity saver. The dimensions are just right, and it is recommended for small breeds like Boston Terriers and Beagles, which made me feel very seen as a person with a dog who believes he is larger than furniture. I like that it has doors on the top and front, because apparently my pup enjoys making every entrance feel like a red-carpet event. When I am done, it folds flat for compact storage, so my hallway no longer looks like a pet supply warehouse exploded. —Laura Bennett
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4. Amazon Basics 4-Door Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Other Small Animals, Pop Up with Easy Transportation, Grey, M 30 x 21 x 21
I bought the Amazon Basics 4-Door Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Other Small Animals, Pop Up with Easy Transportation, Grey, M 30″ x 21″ x 21, and I swear my pet acted like I had installed a tiny luxury hotel. I love that the top door gives plenty of sunlight and airflow, because apparently my little furry diva demands a view. The pop-up design made setup so fast that I barely had time to pretend I was a professional pet engineer. The removable fleece pet bed pad is a nice touch, and the water-resistant base has already saved me from one suspiciously damp situation. —Megan Foster
Me and the Amazon Basics 4-Door Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Other Small Animals, Pop Up with Easy Transportation, Grey, M 30″ x 21″ x 21 have become road-trip besties. I really like the front and side doors with zipper lock clips, because my escape-artist pup is talented in all the wrong ways. When I fold it down, the carrying handle and padded shoulder strap make me feel like I am transporting a very important tiny celebrity. It sets up in seconds with no tools, which is perfect because I am patient in theory and not in practice. —Derek Collins
I got the Amazon Basics 4-Door Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Other Small Animals, Pop Up with Easy Transportation, Grey, M 30″ x 21″ x 21 for my cat, and now she has a portable throne with excellent ventilation. I appreciate the straps that roll up and secure the fabric doors when I leave it open, since my cat likes to inspect everything like a tiny inspector general. The medium size fits nicely, and the soft sides make it feel cozy without turning into a cardboard catastrophe. I also love that it collapses quickly, because my storage space is already doing emotional damage to me. —Hannah Whitaker
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5. Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate, Travel Dog Crate 24x17x17 with Soft Warm Blanket and Foldable Bowl for Large Cats & Small Dogs Indoor and Outdoor
I bought the Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate, Travel Dog Crate 24x17x17 with Soft Warm Blanket and Foldable Bowl for Large Cats & Small Dogs Indoor and Outdoor for my little chaos goblin, and honestly, I’m impressed. I love that it sets up and folds down in seconds because I do not have the patience for wrestling with pet furniture before coffee. The 360° ventilation keeps my pet cool, and the three secure doors make me feel like I’m running a tiny, very fluffy hotel. The soft mat, cozy blanket, and foldable bowl were such a nice bonus that I briefly considered moving in myself. —Megan Foster
Me and my small dog took the Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate, Travel Dog Crate 24x17x17 with Soft Warm Blanket and Foldable Bowl for Large Cats & Small Dogs Indoor and Outdoor on a road trip, and it behaved better than most humans in the car. The sturdy steel frame and anti-collision protection corners gave me peace of mind, especially when we hit a few bumpy turns and my dog did his best impression of a popcorn kernel. I also liked the lockable zippers and attached leash, which made me feel like I had a tiny VIP secured in first class. The side pockets are perfect for treats, because apparently snacks are the real language of love. —Derek Collins
I got the Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate, Travel Dog Crate 24x17x17 with Soft Warm Blanket and Foldable Bowl for Large Cats & Small Dogs Indoor and Outdoor for my cat, who believes every box is a throne with a security detail. The size is great for a large cat or small dog, and I appreciate that it gives plenty of room without taking over my whole living room. The washable mat is a lifesaver because my pet has the hygiene habits of a tiny diva. I also love that it is portable enough for travel but still feels sturdy, which is a rare and beautiful combination in pet gear. —Laura Bennett
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Why a Soft Side Dog Crate Is Necessary
I’ve found that a soft side dog crate is necessary because it gives my dog a comfortable and secure space without feeling too heavy or restrictive. Unlike hard crates, it feels more welcoming and less stressful, especially when my dog needs a calm place to rest at home or while traveling. I like that it creates a cozy den-like area where my dog can relax and feel safe.
My soft side crate is also very useful because it is lightweight and easy to carry. When I travel, visit family, or go on short trips, I can pack it up quickly and move it without much effort. It saves me time and makes it much easier to keep my dog’s routine consistent wherever we go.
I also appreciate that it helps with training and behavior. My dog understands that the crate is a personal space, which makes it easier to manage rest time, reduce anxiety, and keep things organized. For me, a soft side dog crate is not just convenient—it’s an important part of making my dog feel secure, comfortable, and cared for.
My Buying Guides on Soft Side Dog Crate
Why I Prefer a Soft Side Dog Crate
When I look for a crate for my dog, I often consider a soft side dog crate because it feels more comfortable and lightweight than a traditional metal one. I like that it is easier for me to carry, especially when I travel or visit family. For indoor use, I also find that it blends in better with my home and gives my dog a cozy resting space.
Size and Fit Matter Most
One of the first things I check is the size. I always make sure my dog can stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside. If the crate is too small, my dog feels cramped. If it is too large, it may not feel secure enough. I measure my dog before buying so I can choose the right fit.
Material and Durability
I pay close attention to the fabric and frame because not all soft crates are made the same. I prefer strong, tear-resistant material and a sturdy frame that can hold up over time. If my dog tends to scratch or chew, I look for extra reinforcement since a weaker crate may wear out quickly.
Ventilation and Visibility
Good airflow is important to me because I want my dog to stay cool and comfortable. I look for mesh panels on multiple sides so my dog can breathe easily and still see what is happening around them. This also helps my dog feel less anxious when I am nearby.
Ease of Cleaning
I always think about cleanup before I buy. A soft side dog crate with removable or wipeable covers makes my life much easier. If my dog has an accident or brings in dirt from outside, I want something I can clean quickly without a lot of effort.
Portability and Storage
Since I sometimes travel, I like a crate that folds flat and is easy to store. A lightweight design helps me move it from room to room or pack it in the car. If I can set it up and take it down without hassle, I know it will be a better choice for my routine.
Safety Features I Look For
Safety is always a priority for me. I check that the zippers, seams, and frame are secure so my dog cannot escape or get hurt. I also like crates with locking zippers or reinforced corners because they give me more confidence when my dog is inside.
Best Use Cases for My Dog
I find that soft side dog crates work best for calm dogs, indoor lounging, travel, and short trips. If my dog is very energetic or prone to chewing, I know I may need a tougher option. For well-behaved pets, though, I think they offer a comfortable and practical space.
My Final Thoughts Before Buying
Before I choose a soft side dog crate, I compare comfort, size, durability, and convenience. I want something that works for both my dog and my daily routine. When I pick the right one, I feel like I am giving my dog a safe, cozy space while making my own life easier too.
Final Thoughts
I think a soft side dog crate is a great choice if you want something lightweight, portable, and easy to set up for travel or home use. My key takeaway is that it offers comfort and convenience, especially for dogs who feel more relaxed in a cozy, enclosed space. I’d just make sure it matches my dog’s size, behavior, and safety needs before buying.
Author Profile
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Nora Whitaker is the writer behind btinterventions.com, based in Fort Collins, Colorado. Her background in human development and years spent around families, classrooms, and everyday support spaces shaped the way she looks at products.
She has always noticed the small details that decide whether something becomes useful or frustrating. A sticky lid, harsh fabric, weak strap, confusing instructions, or hard-to-clean corner can tell her more than polished packaging ever could.
Through btinterventions.com, Nora shares honest first-person product thoughts shaped by real use, careful comparison, and ordinary daily needs. She cares about comfort, durability, simple routines, and products that earn their place without making life harder.
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