🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dog Care Products

Best Soft Dog Crate For Small Dogs 2026: 5 Picks Compared

We evaluated the top soft dog crates for small breeds based on safety, comfort, portability, and ease of cleaning. Find the perfect crate for travel or home use.

ProPawPicks Editorial Team

Reviewed for accuracy by our editorial team

Updated April 7, 2026

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★ Top Pick: Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier

5 to 20 lbs

Weight Range

18 to 24 inches

Length Range

2 to 5 lbs

Carrier Weight

200 to 400 sq in

Ventilation Area

⚡ Key takeaways

Best Overall: Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier. This carrier is airline-approved and features a sturdy design with mesh panels for ventila.
Best for Car Travel: Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed. Crash-tested by the Center for Pet Safety, this carrier doubles as a cozy bed.
Best Budget: Frisco Soft-Sided Dog Crate. Affordable and lightweight, this crate folds flat for storage.
Best for Large Small Dogs: MidWest Homes iCrate Soft Foldable Dog Crate. This crate offers more space for small breeds up to 20 pounds.
Best for Airline: Petmate Two-Door Top Load Pet Carrier. Approved by most airlines, this carrier has top and front access for easy loading.

Quick answer

The best soft dog crate for small dogs is the Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier for its airline-approved design, sturdy construction, and comfortable fleece bed. For car travel, the Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed offers superior crash-tested safety. If you need a budget-friendly option, the Frisco Soft-Sided Dog Crate provides good value.

What to consider for Soft Dog Crate For Small Dogs

When choosing a soft dog crate for a small dog, prioritize proper sizing: your dog should be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Ventilation is critical to prevent overheating, especially during travel. Look for secure zippers and seams to prevent escapes. For car use, ensure the crate can be anchored or is crash-tested. Portability matters if you travel frequently, so consider weight and foldability. Easy cleaning is also important for hygiene.

What to look for in a travel or containment product (crate, carrier, gate or car seat)

Select a product that fits your dog’s size and intended use. For crates and carriers, ensure good ventilation on multiple sides. For car travel, choose crash-tested options or secure the crate with a seatbelt. For gates, look for pressure-mounted or hardware-mounted options that a small dog cannot push through. Easy-to-clean materials like nylon or mesh are preferable. Portability features like folding or carrying handles add convenience.

How we chose these picks

Evaluated product specifications for size, weight, and material quality.
Reviewed safety features including crash-test certifications and ventilation.
Considered user feedback on durability and ease of use.
Assessed portability and storage convenience.
Checked airline approval for travel-friendly options.
Compared price points to offer options for different budgets.
Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

A crate or carrier too small for your dog to stand and turn around in.
Unsecured carriers in a moving car; always anchor or use a crash-tested product.
Flimsy gates that a determined small dog can push through or climb.
Over-long crating; dogs should not be confined for more than a few hours without breaks.

For more guidance, check out our dog guides and related articles on dog care products and dog health.

Sources and further reading

At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Product	Best For
Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier	Best Overall	Check price →
Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed	Best for Car Travel	Check price →
Frisco Soft-Sided Dog Crate	Best Budget	Check price →
MidWest Homes iCrate Soft Foldable Dog Crate	Best for Large Small Dogs	Check price →
Petmate Two-Door Top Load Pet Carrier	Best for Airline	Check price →

Why this matters

Soft dog crates are ideal for small dogs due to their portability and comfort, but only a few models are crash-tested for car safety, making it essential to prioritize safety features if you travel frequently.

The Options

Types Explained

Soft-Sided Carrier

Lightweight and collapsible, these carriers are ideal for travel and airline use. They typically have mesh panels and a carrying handle.

Best for: Small dogs that travel frequently by air or car.

Soft Crate with Frame

These have a metal or plastic frame for added stability. They often include a washable floor pad and are suitable for home or car use.

Best for: Dogs that need more structure and security than a simple carrier.

Crash-Tested Carrier

Designed for car safety, these carriers have been tested to withstand impact. They often include seatbelt loops or anchor systems.

Key Buying Factors

Size and Fit

Measure your dog's length from nose to tail base and height from floor to top of head while sitting. Add 2 to 4 inches for comfort. The crate should allow your dog to stand, turn, and lie down.

Ventilation

Look for mesh panels on multiple sides to ensure airflow. Adequate ventilation prevents overheating, especially during travel or in warm weather.

Safety Features

For car travel, choose a crash-tested carrier. For home use, ensure zippers are lockable and seams are reinforced to prevent escapes.

Portability

Consider weight and foldability if you travel often. Carrying handles or shoulder straps add convenience. Some crates come with storage bags.

Ease of Cleaning

Removable, machine-washable pads or liners make maintenance simple. Waterproof materials resist stains and odors.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Cleaning

Remove the pad and wash it in cold water on a gentle cycle. Air dry or tumble dry low. Wipe the frame and mesh with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid bleach.

Storage

Fold the crate flat when not in use. Store in a dry, cool place to prevent mold or mildew. Keep away from direct sunlight to avoid fading.

Inspection

Regularly check zippers, seams, and mesh for wear or damage. Replace if any part is broken to prevent escapes or injury.

Pro tip

To help your small dog feel secure in a soft crate, place a familiar blanket or toy inside and cover the crate with a lightweight cloth to create a den-like environment, but ensure ventilation is not blocked.

Frequently asked questions

How do I size a soft dog crate for my small dog?

Measure your dog from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, and from the floor to the top of the head while sitting. Add 2 to 4 inches to both measurements. The crate should be long enough for your dog to stretch out and tall enough to stand without crouching. Most soft crates have weight and size guidelines; follow them closely. A crate that is too small can cause discomfort and stress, while one too large may not provide a secure feeling.

Are soft dog crates safe for car travel?

Only if they are crash-tested and properly secured. The Center for Pet Safety has tested and certified a few soft carriers, like the Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed. For non-crash-tested crates, use a seatbelt to anchor them or place them in the footwell. Never put an unsecured crate on a seat, as it can become a projectile in an accident. For maximum safety, consider a hard-sided crate that meets crash-test standards.

What are airline rules for soft dog carriers?

Most airlines require the carrier to fit under the seat in front of you. Common dimensions are 18 inches long by 11 inches wide by 11 inches high, but check your airline's specific limits. The carrier must be well-ventilated with mesh panels and have a leak-proof bottom. Your dog must be able to stand and turn inside. Some airlines restrict soft carriers to certain breeds or require a hard-sided crate for cargo.

How long can a small dog stay in a soft crate?

For adult dogs, limit crate time to 4 to 6 hours during the day, with breaks for exercise and bathroom. Puppies need more frequent breaks. Never leave a dog in a crate for more than 8 hours overnight. Prolonged confinement can lead to anxiety, muscle stiffness, and accidents. Ensure your dog gets plenty of exercise before and after crating.

What ventilation is needed in a soft dog crate?

Look for mesh panels on at least two sides, preferably three or more. The mesh should be breathable and allow air to circulate freely. Avoid crates with solid sides that restrict airflow. Good ventilation prevents overheating, especially in warm weather or during travel. If the crate has a cover, ensure it is mesh or has ventilation holes.

How can I prevent my small dog from escaping a soft crate?

Choose a crate with lockable zippers and reinforced seams. Some dogs can unzip zippers, so use a carabiner or padlock to secure them. Ensure the crate is the right size; a crate that is too large may allow a dog to push against the sides. For persistent escape artists, consider a hard-sided crate or a soft crate with a steel frame.

What is the difference between soft and hard dog crates?

Soft crates are lightweight, portable, and foldable, making them ideal for travel. They offer less protection in a crash and can be chewed or clawed through. Hard crates are more durable, provide better crash protection, and are easier to clean. They are heavier and less portable. For small dogs, soft crates are often sufficient for home and travel, but hard crates are recommended for car safety.

Can I use a soft dog crate for crate training?

Yes, soft crates can be used for crate training, but they may not be as durable as hard crates. Some dogs may chew or scratch the mesh. Start with short sessions and use positive reinforcement. Ensure the crate is comfortable with a soft bed. For heavy chewers or anxious dogs, a hard-sided crate is a better choice for training.

What safety concerns should I watch for with soft dog crates?

Check for loose threads, broken zippers, or torn mesh that could pose a choking or entanglement hazard. Ensure the crate is not placed in direct sunlight, as it can overheat. Never leave a dog unsupervised in a soft crate if they are prone to chewing. For car travel, always secure the crate to prevent movement. Follow the manufacturer's weight limits.

A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.

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