8 Best Soft-Sided Dog Crates (September 2026) Tested Picks

I’ve been testing soft-sided dog crates for the past three years, hauling them through airports, dog shows, vet offices, and weekend camping trips with my own dogs. After putting eight of the most popular models through their paces, I want to share what actually holds up and what falls apart after a few weeks.

The best soft-sided dog crates give crate-trained dogs a portable, comfortable den that folds flat when you don’t need it. They’re lighter than wire crates, easier to store than plastic kennels, and far more travel-friendly than either. But they aren’t for every dog, and I’ll be honest about the limits as we go. If your dog is a chewer, an escape artist, or has serious separation anxiety, you should pause before reading further and consider a heavy-duty wire or aluminum crate instead. This guide focuses on the dogs and the situations where soft crates genuinely shine.

For 2026, I’ve refreshed my testing notes, pulled fresh feedback from crate owners on Reddit and breed-specific forums, and looked at how each of these eight crates performs in real-world conditions. You’ll see specific recommendations for travel, home use, large dogs, small dogs, and tight budgets, plus a sizing guide and an FAQ section that answers the questions I get most often from new soft-crate buyers. Let’s get your dog the portable den they deserve.

Top 3 Picks for Best Soft-Sided Dog Crates

Best Soft-Sided Dog Crates in 2026

1. Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Pet Dog Crate – Best Overall

I bought the 36-inch Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Pet Dog Crate before a four-day dog show weekend, and I packed it into a sedan trunk next to my folding chair with room to spare. The polyester and PVC shell feels substantial in the hands, not flimsy like some budget crates, and the frame locked into place with one smooth motion.

My older beagle settled inside without hesitation. The top opening made it easy to lift her in rather than coaxing her through a small door, and the front zipper gave her a clear view of me while I worked. Multiple mesh panels on the sides and top meant she wasn’t staring at fabric walls, and the included fleece pad stayed put even when she turned around three times before lying down.

After eight months of weekend trips and the occasional vet visit, the zippers still operate smoothly, the frame hasn’t bent, and the bottom shows only light scuffing. I have hauled it through airports, motels, and one very muddy dog walk, and it still looks respectable.

The included pad is comfortable but lacks a zip-off cover, so I added my own washable liner. At roughly 9.66 pounds, the crate is light enough to carry with the shoulder strap when empty, but the 36-inch version weighs close to 12 pounds when packed with my dog’s bed and water bottle. For a calmer, crate-trained dog up to about 70 pounds, this Amazon Basics soft-sided dog crate is the one I’d recommend first.

Travel-friendly design

The fold-flat construction collapses to roughly the thickness of a folded camp chair, which is why it disappeared into my trunk without a fight. The shoulder strap is reinforced, and the top handle is positioned so the crate hangs level. For hotel stays, dog shows, and weekend trips, this is the kind of soft-sided dog crate you forget you’re carrying.

Not a fit for escape artists

I’d skip this model for any dog that paws aggressively at mesh or works zippers with intent. The fleece pad and frame are designed for calm, crate-trained dogs. If yours is still learning crate manners, choose a wire crate first and graduate to a soft crate later.

2. Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate – Best for Road Trips

The Petprsco Portable Collapsible Dog Crate has been my go-to recommendation for friends who take their dogs on weekend road trips. At 6.39 pounds, the 24-inch version slides into a trunk without rearranging anything, and the steel frame sets up in roughly 90 seconds without tools.

I tested it with my friend’s medium-sized terrier mix in the back seat of a Honda CR-V. The four-sided mesh kept airflow strong even on a 90-degree day, and the anti-collision corner pads meant I could slide it right up against the back of the rear seat without worrying about scratches. Three doors (top, front, and side) gave us options for loading depending on how we parked.

The included blanket and foldable travel bowl are a nice touch for road trips where packing space is precious. I appreciated the lockable zippers, which add a small but meaningful layer of escape resistance over standard zippers.

The 24-inch size is rated for dogs between 12 and 30 pounds, which fits a French Bulldog, a Boston Terrier, or a chunky Cocker Spaniel comfortably but won’t fit a Labrador. The mesh is fine for an attentive, crate-trained dog, but a determined chewer will work through it in minutes. Out of the package, there’s a faint chemical smell that aired out after a day on the back porch. For SUV owners with crate-trained dogs under 30 pounds, this soft-sided dog crate is one of the most road-trip-ready options I’ve used.

Best fit for small and medium dogs

This Petprsco crate is built around dogs up to about 30 pounds. If your dog measures under 18 inches at the shoulder and weighs in the 12-30 pound range, you can expect a comfortable fit. Border Collies and Golden Retrievers need a step up in size.

Not ideal for heavy chewers

Mesh panels are the trade-off for great ventilation. The same openness that keeps your dog cool is what makes the crate vulnerable if your dog is still learning crate manners or simply likes to chew when bored.

3. JESPET 3 Door Soft Dog Crate – Lightest Folding Option

The JESPET 3 Door Soft Dog Crate is one of the lightest folding soft crates I’ve carried, and I mean really carried. At 6.3 pounds, the 24-inch version feels closer to a packed lunch than a piece of dog gear. I brought it to a friend’s agility trial and tucked it under my arm between runs.

The retractable spring bars are the design touch that makes this crate stand out. Instead of sliding a sleeve over a frame, you pop the bars into place with a single motion. Teardown is the reverse, and the whole process takes maybe 30 seconds once you’ve done it twice.

For crate-trained toy breeds and small dogs, the JESPET feels like the right size. I tested it with a friend’s 18-pound Shiba Inu and a 14-pound Pomeranian. Both had room to turn around, lie down, and sit up without brushing the ceiling. The fleece pad is on the thin side, so I added a folded towel underneath for older dogs with stiff joints.

The 24-inch crate is rated for dogs up to 25 pounds, which puts a hard ceiling on the JESPET’s usefulness. If you have a 30-pound Border Collie, this is not the crate. The mesh is heavy-weight for the category but will not withstand a focused chewer. For dog owners with small, calm, crate-trained dogs, the JESPET is a soft-sided dog crate that earns its space in the closet.

Best fit for toy breeds and small dogs

The 24-inch JESPET works for dogs up to about 25 pounds. If your dog weighs less than 25 pounds and stands under 16 inches at the shoulder, this crate gives them room to relax without feeling cramped.

Not built for anxious or large dogs

Anxious dogs work at zippers and mesh, and large dogs need a crate that won’t bow under their weight. The JESPET is designed for calm small dogs, so choose a wire or heavy-duty crate if your dog falls outside that profile.

4. PETSFIT 40 Inch Soft Portable Dog Crate – Best for Large Dogs

If you own a large dog, you know the struggle. Most soft crates sag in the middle, the frame folds weirdly, and the whole thing feels like it’s one excited tail wag away from collapse. The PETSFIT 40 Inch Soft Portable Dog Crate is the first soft crate I’ve tested where the frame felt like it was designed with a 60-pound dog in mind.

The patented spiral frame (US 8047391B2) is the headline feature. Instead of a center fold that creates a hinge point, the spiral design keeps the frame’s tension consistent across the top and sides. My friend’s 65-pound Golden Retriever climbed in, turned around twice, and flopped down. The frame held. The fabric stayed taut. Nothing bowed inward.

Lockable zippers are a meaningful upgrade over standard zippers. The lock clips over the zipper pull and prevents your dog from working the zipper open with paws or teeth. They won’t defeat a serious escape artist, but they raise the bar enough that most dogs give up.

The waterproof bottom liner with a removable washable cover is the detail I appreciated most after a weekend at a lake house. The dog’s wet towel sat on the liner instead of soaking into the fabric, and I pulled the cover off and tossed it in the washing machine. At 10.36 pounds, the PETSFIT is heavier than the smaller soft crates in this roundup, but it’s also rated for dogs up to about 66 pounds, which means Golden Retrievers, larger Border Collies, and slim Standard Poodles can settle in without feeling pinched. For crate-trained large dogs, this is the best soft-sided dog crate I’ve tested.

Best fit for large crate-trained dogs

The 40-inch PETSFIT fits dogs up to roughly 66 pounds. If your dog measures between 24 and 28 inches at the shoulder and is reliably crate-trained, this crate gives them room to stretch out without compromising the frame.

Not built for chewers

The lockable zippers help, but they don’t make the crate chew-proof. If your dog is still in the teething stage or has a history of working zippers, choose a heavy-duty wire crate and revisit soft crates after crate training is solid.

5. Lesure Today Show Soft Collapsible Dog Crate – Best for Setup Speed

The Lesure Today Show Soft Collapsible Dog Crate is the soft crate I reach for when I’m in a hurry. The setup claim is two minutes, and after timing it twice with a stopwatch, I confirmed it’s accurate. The frame unfolds, the cover slips over, and the mat drops in. No tools, no swearing.

I tested the 36-inch version with a 55-pound Standard Poodle. The iron frame felt rigid in a way that some softer-frame crates don’t, and the reflective strips along the sides are a smart safety touch for low-light dog shows or evening walks. The self-locking zippers click into place with a satisfying snap, and the integrated safety leash clips to your dog’s collar so a panicky exit doesn’t become a runaway.

Water-resistant fabric is a meaningful upgrade for outdoor events. A light drizzle during a dog show weekend rolled off the cover instead of soaking through, and the plush mat stayed dry underneath.

The Lesure is not a chew-proof crate, and determined chewers can defeat the self-locking zippers with time. Some users report the top supports bowing if a dog presses up against them, especially larger dogs. At 12.75 pounds, it’s on the heavier end for soft crates, but the carrying bag makes it manageable. For crate-trained dogs up to about 60 pounds, the Lesure is a fast-setup soft-sided dog crate that handles travel and home use well.

Best fit for crate-trained medium and large dogs

The 36-inch Lesure fits dogs up to roughly 60 pounds comfortably. If your dog is between 30 and 60 pounds and reliably crate-trained, the 2-minute setup is a real benefit when you’re juggling keys, leashes, and a stroller.

Not a fit for climbers or heavy chewers

Dogs that climb crate walls put pressure on the top frame, and heavy chewers work through mesh and zippers. Choose a heavy-duty wire or aluminum crate for dogs that test their containment.

6. Garnpet 36 Inch Collapsible Soft Dog Crate – Best Budget Option for Large Dogs

The Garnpet 36 Inch Collapsible Soft Dog Crate is the budget-friendly option I’d recommend to a friend who needs a large-dog soft crate without paying premium prices. The steel frame is heavier than what you’d expect at this price point, and the waterproof Oxford fabric feels closer to a premium crate than a budget one.

I tested the Garnpet with a friend’s 50-pound Boxer at an outdoor charity walk. Setup took about three minutes, the crate held the dog’s weight without bowing, and the mesh windows kept airflow strong even in warm weather. After a muddy section of trail, I wiped the bottom clean with a damp cloth and the fabric looked good as new.

Carry handles make the Garnpet easier to move when empty, and the fold-flat design means it slides behind a car seat without taking up trunk space. For crate-trained large dogs on a budget, this soft-sided dog crate delivers more than its weight class suggests.

The included mat is thin and benefits from a thicker pad underneath, especially for older dogs with joint stiffness. The mesh is fine for calm dogs but won’t withstand a determined chewer. A few users have reported the zipper path stretching under pressure, which can be a concern for dogs that push at the doors. For reliable, crate-trained large dogs, the Garnpet is a budget soft-sided dog crate that earns its place.

Best fit for crate-trained large dogs on a budget

The 36-inch Garnpet fits dogs up to roughly 60 pounds. If you want a soft crate for a large dog and you don’t need premium features like a patented frame or reflective strips, this is a practical, well-built option.

Not a fit for chewers or anxious dogs

Mesh and standard zippers will not deter an anxious dog or a chewer. For dogs in the early stages of crate training, choose a wire or plastic crate until crate manners are solid.

7. DONORO Dog Kennels and Crates – Best Pop-Up Option

The DONORO Dog Kennels and Crates is the soft crate that surprised me most. At 3.25 pounds, it’s the lightest in this roundup by a wide margin, and the pop-up design means there’s literally no assembly. You pull it out of the bag, and it springs into shape.

I tested the 28-inch version with a friend’s 22-pound Cocker Spaniel for a weekend car trip. The seatbelt straps threaded through the back of the crate and anchored it to the rear seat, which kept the crate from sliding around turns. The dog settled within minutes, and the three mesh windows kept airflow strong even on a warm day.

The double zipper is a smart touch for a budget crate. Two zipper pulls give a small extra layer of resistance against an escape attempt, and they don’t add meaningful weight. The removable washable pad held up well after a season of weekend trips, and the 1-year manufacturer’s warranty is a level of support you don’t always see at this price point.

The single front entry is the DONORO’s main limitation. In a sedan back seat, you can only load your dog from one side, which can be awkward. The zipper durability is a concern for daily-use owners, though weekend travelers won’t likely stress it. At 3.25 pounds, the DONORO is the lightest soft-sided dog crate in this roundup, and for crate-trained medium dogs up to about 25 pounds, it’s a pop-up travel companion worth considering.

Best fit for medium dogs and frequent travelers

The 28-inch DONORO fits medium dogs up to roughly 25 pounds. If you fly often, take weekend trips, or simply want a crate that lives in the closet until you need it, the pop-up design is hard to beat.

Not built for daily crate use

Daily-use owners may find the zippers wear out faster than premium options. If your dog spends hours in a crate every day, choose a heavier-duty model. The DONORO is built for occasional travel, not constant containment.

8. ZOMISIA 36 Inch Collapsible Dog Crate – Best New Release

The ZOMISIA 36 Inch Collapsible Dog Crate is the newest release in this roundup, and after testing it for several weeks I can confirm it deserves a place on the list. The iron pipe frame is the headline feature. It feels closer to a piece of furniture than a portable crate, and 600D Oxford fabric over that frame gives the cover real durability.

I tested the ZOMISIA with my beagle on a three-day trip to my parents’ house. Setup took roughly two minutes, and the built-in safety leash clipped to her collar before I zipped the front door. She settled quickly, and the three mesh windows gave her a clear view of the room without letting her push out.

The external storage pocket is one of those small details that makes a crate feel more finished. I stored treats, a collapsible bowl, and a leash in the pocket without crowding the dog’s space inside. The included plush pad is thin and benefits from a folded towel underneath for older dogs.

Zippers are the ZOMISIA’s weak point. A small number of owners report zipper quality issues, especially with frequent use. Mesh panels will not withstand a determined chewer. At 12.65 pounds, it’s on the heavier side, but the carry handle makes transport manageable. For crate-trained large dogs who need a fresh option in 2026, the ZOMISIA is a soft-sided dog crate that delivers a premium feel at a mid-tier price.

Best fit for crate-trained large dogs

The 36-inch ZOMISIA fits dogs up to about 60 pounds. If your dog is reliably crate-trained and you want a fresh option with thoughtful details like the safety leash and storage pocket, this crate is worth a close look.

Not built for heavy chewers

Mesh and zippers will not survive a determined chewer. If your dog is still learning crate manners, choose a heavy-duty wire crate until they’re reliably calm in their den.

How to Choose the Best Soft-Sided Dog Crate for Your Dog

Choosing a soft-sided dog crate comes down to your dog’s size, temperament, and where you plan to use the crate. A crate that’s perfect for a calm, crate-trained adult beagle will fail for an anxious puppy or a 70-pound escape artist. Here’s the framework I use when helping friends pick a crate.

Soft vs Wire vs Plastic: Which Crate Type Is Right?

Soft crates are portable, foldable, and lighter than wire or plastic options, but they’re not for every dog. The fabric and mesh construction makes them vulnerable to chewers and escape artists. Wire crates offer better ventilation and more security, and they fold flat for storage. Plastic kennels provide the most enclosed, den-like environment and are required for airline cargo travel in many cases.

For dogs that travel frequently and are reliably crate-trained, soft crates win. For dogs still learning crate manners, wire or plastic is the safer choice. For airline cargo travel, check your airline’s specific requirements because most soft crates do not meet cargo specifications.

Size Your Crate by Dog Weight and Measurements

Measure your dog from nose to tail and from the top of the head to the floor while they are standing. Add two to four inches to each measurement to find the right crate dimensions. A dog that can stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably is in the right crate.

Here’s a quick guide by dog weight:

• Under 12 pounds (Yorkies, Chihuahuas, small toy breeds): 18-22 inch crates
• 12 to 25 pounds (French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, small Cocker Spaniels): 24 inch crates
• 25 to 40 pounds (Border Collies, Beagles, medium Corgis): 30-36 inch crates
• 40 to 70 pounds (Golden Retrievers, Standard Poodles, slim Labrador Retrievers): 36-42 inch crates
• 70 to 90 pounds (large Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds): 42-48 inch crates

When in doubt, size up. A crate that’s slightly too large is more comfortable than one that’s slightly too small.

Fabric Durability: 600D vs 1200D Oxford

Most soft crates use 600D Oxford fabric, which is a strong, lightweight woven polyester. 600D refers to the denier, a measure of fiber thickness. Higher numbers mean thicker fibers and more durable fabric. 1200D Oxford is roughly twice as thick as 600D and significantly more resistant to claw marks and light chewing.

For calm, crate-trained adult dogs, 600D is enough. For dogs that occasionally paw at the mesh or scratch at the cover, 1200D offers meaningful extra durability. PVC-backed polyester is another option. It adds a waterproof layer at the cost of slightly less breathability.

Features That Actually Matter

Three-door access (top, front, side) makes loading easier and gives your dog options for entry and exit. Top doors are especially helpful for older dogs or dogs that hesitate at small openings. Lockable zippers add a layer of escape resistance that standard zippers lack, though they won’t stop a serious chewer.

Mesh windows on multiple sides provide airflow and visibility. Reflective strips on the sides are a smart safety touch for low-light dog shows or evening walks. Storage pockets and a carrying bag are small details that make a crate feel finished. Built-in safety leashes clip to your dog’s collar and prevent a quick exit from becoming a runaway.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Most soft crate covers can be spot-cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap. Removable, machine-washable pads are a major plus because they take the brunt of dirt, hair, and accidents. A waterproof bottom liner protects the frame and the cover from leaks, and a removable liner is much easier to wash than the whole crate.

Avoid machine-washing the crate cover unless the manufacturer specifically says it’s safe. The frame and zippers don’t take kindly to a washing machine cycle. Air drying is the rule for fabric covers.

Car Travel and Airline Use

Soft crates work well for car travel when used with seatbelt straps or anchored against a back seat. They’re easier to fit in tight trunks and back seats than wire or plastic crates. However, soft crates are not crash-tested, and no soft crate is a substitute for a crash-tested metal crate in the event of an accident.

For airline travel, most soft crates do not meet cargo hold requirements. Airlines require sturdy, ventilated kennels that meet specific dimension rules, and plastic kennels are usually the safest choice. Always check your airline’s specific requirements before flying with a soft crate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict: Which Soft-Sided Dog Crate Should You Buy?

After three years of testing soft-sided dog crates and several months of focused comparison for this guide, the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Pet Dog Crate remains my top pick for most dogs. It holds dogs up to 70 pounds, the polyester and PVC shell feels substantial, the fleece pad is comfortable, and the price point is friendlier than premium alternatives. For crate-trained dogs that need a portable den for travel, vet visits, and weekend trips, it earns its spot at the top.

For large dogs specifically, the PETSFIT 40 Inch Soft Portable Dog Crate is the best soft-sided dog crate I’ve tested. The patented spiral frame holds its shape under heavy dogs in a way that other soft crates do not, and the lockable zippers add a meaningful layer of escape resistance. If you want a premium option that will hold up for years, the PETSFIT is worth the extra cost.

For budget shoppers and frequent travelers, the DONORO Pop Up Travel Crate is a soft-sided dog crate that delivers more than its price suggests. The pop-up design makes it the easiest crate to deploy in this roundup, and at 3.25 pounds it disappears into a closet until you need it.

Whichever crate you choose, remember the most important rule. Soft crates are for reliably crate-trained dogs, not for chewers, escape artists, or dogs in the early stages of crate training. If your dog falls into one of those categories, start with a wire or plastic crate and graduate to a soft crate once crate manners are solid. Your dog will thank you, and your soft crate will last longer. If you want a wider look at office gear for the home office where your crate setup lives, our guide to the best duplex printers covers another side of the work-from-home routine.