By Audrey HayesUpdated November 2026
Choosing a large dog traveling crate comes down to three things: whether your dog can stand up, turn around and lie down inside it; whether the crate meets the rules of the airline or the vehicle you plan to use; and whether it can be secured so it stays put during a sudden stop or turbulence. The seven crates below were compared on listed dimensions, materials, door configuration, folding design and the patterns owners most often report about setup and durability. None of these were tested in our own hands, so treat the specifications as the manufacturer states them and check the listing before you order.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallAmazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Double Door, CollapsiblView on Amazon - 2
TOP CHOICEBest for frequent road tripsPortable Dog Crate Soft Sided, Easy Fold & Setup Kennel, Indoor & OutdView on Amazon - 3
TOP CHOICEBest for anxious or chewing dogsHeavy Duty, Portable Wire Kennel with Double Door, Divider & Leak-ProoView on Amazon - 4
Best for airline travelPetmate Vari Dog Kennel, Airline Friendly, Carrier for Large Dogs, 36in, Taupe and BlackView on Amazon - 5
Best for dogs up to 90 lbsSoft Sided,Easy Fold & Setup,Indoor & Outdoor Use,Breathable Mesh WindView on Amazon - 6
Best budget pick36x25x25 Inch Large Dog Crate for Large or Medium Dogs, Portable and Foldable, Light GreyView on Amazon - 7
Best for multi-door accessCollapsible Dog Crate for Large Dogs 36 Inch, Portable Travel Soft DogView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate | Everyday car travel and home use | XL 42″ x 31″ x 31″, double door, collapsible |
| Portable Dog Crate Soft Sided, 36 Inch Collapsible | Frequent road trips | Plush pad, built-in leash, mesh windows |
| Heavy Duty Portable Wire Kennel, 48 Inch | Anxious or chewing dogs | Double door, divider, leak-proof tray |
| Petmate Vari Dog Kennel, 36in | Airline travel | Durable plastic, airline-friendly design |
| Soft Sided Extra Large Collapsible Travel Crate | Dogs up to 90 lbs | Rated for extra large breeds, easy fold |
| 36x25x25 Inch Large Dog Crate | Budget-conscious buyers | 2-door design with durable mesh windows |
| Collapsible Dog Crate for Large Dogs 36 Inch | Quick access from any side | 4-door mesh configuration |
Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Double Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, XL 42″ x 31″ x 31″, Tan
Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Double Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Easy to Set Up, Sturdy, Secure, XL 42" x 31" x 31", Tan
Best for: Everyday car travel and home use with a large dog that needs extra floor space.
This crate suits owners who want a no-frills, sturdy soft-sided option with generous interior dimensions. Its double-door layout makes it easy to load a dog from the front or side of a vehicle.
Key specs
- Listed size: XL, 42 inches long x 31 inches wide x 31 inches high
- Collapsible frame for storage and transport
- Double door access
- Tan color
Pros
- Large interior footprint for big dogs
- Two doors make loading and unloading simpler
- Folds down for storage between trips
Cons
- Soft walls offer less protection than a hard-sided crate in a crash
- Owners who chew or scratch may need a more durable material
Bottom line: A strong all-around choice for owners who want a large, collapsible crate for regular car trips and occasional home use.
Portable Dog Crate Soft Sided, Easy Fold & Setup Kennel, 36 Inch Collapsible Dog Crate for Large Dogs, Grey
Portable Dog Crate Soft Sided, Easy Fold & Setup Kennel, Indoor & Outdoor, Breathable Mesh Windows, Built-in Leash, Plush Pad 36 Inch Collapsible Dog Crate for Large Dogs, Travel Dog Crate Grey
Best for: Frequent road trips where setup speed and a comfortable resting surface matter.
Designed for indoor and outdoor use, this soft-sided crate targets owners who move their dog often and want a crate that is quick to open and close.
Key specs
- Listed size: 36 inches for large dogs
- Breathable mesh windows
- Built-in leash attachment
- Plush pad included, per the listing
- Grey color
Pros
- Mesh windows support airflow during long drives
- Built-in leash helps keep the dog secured when opening the crate
- Plush pad adds comfort on longer trips
Cons
- Soft fabric can be scratched through by determined dogs
- Thirty-six inches may be tight for dogs over about 90 pounds
Bottom line: Best suited to owners of large but not giant dogs who travel by car frequently and want a comfortable, easy-to-fold option.
Heavy Duty, Portable Wire Kennel with Double Door, Divider & Leak-Proof Tray, 48″ Foldable Metal Dog Crate, Dark Black
Heavy Duty, Portable Wire Kennel with Double Door, Divider & Leak-Proof Tray | For Training, Home, Travel Indoor/Outdoor Use FDW | 48" Foldable Metal Dog Crate | Dark Black | Cage for XL Dogs
Best for: Anxious or chewing dogs that need a sturdier enclosure and the option to split the interior.
Metal wire crates generally hold up better than soft fabric against chewing and pushing. This model adds a divider and a removable tray, which suits puppies that are growing into an adult-size space or owners who want a training setup.
Key specs
- Listed length: 48 inches
- Double door access
- Removable divider panel
- Leak-proof tray
- Foldable metal frame
Pros
- Metal construction resists chewing better than soft materials
- Divider allows the space to be adjusted as the dog grows
- Tray makes cleanup easier
Cons
- Wire crates are heavier and noisier to fold than soft options
- Open wire may not block light or visual stimulation for nervous dogs
Bottom line: A good fit for owners who need durability and flexibility more than portability, especially for training or home use.
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel, Airline Friendly, Carrier for Large Dogs, 36in, Taupe and Black
Airline Friendly and Made of Durable Plastic, This Pet Crate Works Great for Home and Travel Petmate Vari Dog Kennel, Carrier for Large Dogs, 36in, Taupe and Black
Best for: Air travel, where a rigid, airline-oriented carrier is often required.
Hard-sided plastic carriers are the format most airlines expect for in-cabin or cargo travel. This Petmate model is described by the manufacturer as airline friendly and built for both home and travel use.
Key specs
- Listed size: 36 inches
- Durable plastic shell
- Taupe and black color
- Designed for large dogs
Pros
- Rigid shell offers more protection in transit
- Airline-friendly design per the listing
- Works for home use as well
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier than soft crates
- Does not fold, so it needs dedicated storage space
Bottom line: The best choice here for owners flying with a large dog who want a hard carrier. Check your airline’s current size limits before buying.
Soft Sided Extra Large Collapsible Dog Travel Crate for Large Dogs, Portable Dog Crate, Up to 90 lbs
Soft Sided,Easy Fold & Setup,Indoor & Outdoor Use,Breathable Mesh Windows,Built-in Leash,For Extra Large Breeds Up to 90 lbs XL Collapsible Dog Travel Crate for Large Dogs, Portable Dog Crate
Best for: Dogs in the upper weight range who still need a portable, collapsible crate.
The listing names extra large breeds up to 90 pounds, which makes it one of the few soft-sided options in this group aimed squarely at heavy dogs.
Key specs
- Listed capacity: up to 90 pounds
- Easy fold and setup
- Breathable mesh windows
- Built-in leash
- Indoor and outdoor use
Pros
- Stated weight rating suits heavier dogs
- Collapsible for travel and storage
- Mesh windows support ventilation
Cons
- Soft walls may not hold a strong, anxious dog in place
- Exact interior dimensions should be confirmed in the full listing before buying
Bottom line: A practical choice for extra large or heavy dogs who need portability, provided you verify the interior size fits your dog.
36x25x25 Inch Large Dog Crate for Large or Medium Dogs, Portable and Foldable, Light Grey
Dog Crate,36x25x25 Inch Large Dog Crate for Large or Medium Dogs, Portable and Foldable Design of Dog Cage, Perfect for Travel or Home Use, Dog Kennel with 2-Door and Durable Mesh Windows, Light Grey
Best for: Budget-conscious owners who want a large, foldable crate for both travel and home.
This is a mid-size crate that the listing positions for large or medium dogs. Its two-door mesh design is a common, practical layout for home and vehicle use.
Key specs
- Listed size: 36 x 25 x 25 inches
- Two-door design
- Durable mesh windows
- Foldable frame
- Light grey color
Pros
- Shorter height than some crates, which suits some vehicles
- Two doors offer flexible access
- Foldable for storage
Cons
- The 25-inch height may be too low for taller dogs to stand comfortably
- Listed for “large or medium” dogs, so very large breeds should choose a bigger model
Bottom line: A sensible option for owners of athletic large dogs who want a compact, foldable crate without paying for premium features.
Collapsible Dog Crate for Large Dogs 36 Inch, Portable Travel Soft Dog Kennel with 4-Door Mesh, Grey
Collapsible Dog Crate for Large Dogs 36 Inch, Portable Travel Soft Dog Kennel with 4-Door Mesh, Large Pet Crate Carrier Indoor & Outdoor, Grey
Best for: Owners who need to load a dog quickly from several directions, such as in a crowded car or hotel room.
The four-door mesh layout gives access from multiple sides, which can help with dogs that resist entering through a single opening.
Key specs
- Listed size: 36 inches
- Four-door mesh configuration
- Collapsible soft-sided frame
- Indoor and outdoor use
- Grey color
Pros
- Four doors make access easy from any side
- Mesh panels improve airflow
- Collapses for storage
Cons
- More openings mean more zippers and seams that can fail with heavy use
- Soft walls require a secure tie-down in a vehicle
Bottom line: Best for owners who value multi-side access and do not expect the crate to withstand heavy chewing or pushing.
Buying Guide
Interior Size and Fit
Measure your dog from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, then add a few inches for length. Measure height from the floor to the top of the head or ears while standing, and add a few inches. Your dog should be able to stand, turn around and lie down fully extended. A crate that is too large can allow a dog to be thrown around during braking, so aim for a fit that is snug but comfortable. For more detail, see Large Dog Crate Dimensions: How to Measure and Choose the Right Size.
Good picks for this: Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Petmate Vari Dog Kennel
Airline and Vehicle Rules
Airlines set their own dimension and material rules for in-cabin and cargo crates, and they change. Check the airline’s current pet policy before buying. For car travel, the main concern is restraint, not airline approval. Read Travel Dog Crates: Car and Air Travel Rules for the general requirements.
Good picks for this: Petmate Vari Dog Kennel, Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate
Material and Durability
Hard plastic offers the most protection in a collision and is typically required for airline travel. Metal wire holds up better against chewing and pushing but is heavier. Soft-sided fabric is light and collapsible but can be torn by strong or anxious dogs. Check zipper quality and seam reinforcement, since these are the most common failure points in soft crates.
Good picks for this: Heavy Duty Portable Wire Kennel, Petmate Vari Dog Kennel
Door Configuration
Double doors allow loading from both the front and side. Four-door designs offer more access points but add more seams. Choose a layout that matches how you load your dog, especially if you have a small space or a reluctant dog who needs to be guided in from one side.
Good picks for this: Collapsible Dog Crate for Large Dogs 36 Inch, Heavy Duty Portable Wire Kennel
Portability and Folding
If you travel often, look for a crate that folds flat and can be carried by its handle. Wire and soft crates usually fold; hard plastic carriers generally do not. Consider how much storage space you have at home and in your vehicle.
Good picks for this: Portable Dog Crate Soft Sided 36 Inch, Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate
Ventilation and Comfort
Mesh windows and vents improve airflow during long rides. Check that vents are on at least two sides so air can circulate. A removable pad or a fitted bed adds comfort, but make sure any pad is washable and does not add so much height that the dog cannot stand.
Good picks for this: Portable Dog Crate Soft Sided 36 Inch, Soft Sided Extra Large Collapsible Dog Travel Crate
Securing the Crate in a Vehicle
A crate should be strapped or anchored so it cannot slide or tip during braking. Hard-sided carriers and metal crates are easier to secure with straps or a crash-rated harness system. Soft crates should be tied down through their handles or built-in anchor points. Never place a crate where a deploying airbag could strike it.
Good picks for this: Petmate Vari Dog Kennel, Heavy Duty Portable Wire Kennel
FAQ
What size crate does a large dog need for travel?
Most large dogs need a crate long enough to stand, turn and lie down fully extended. Measure from the nose to the base of the tail and add several inches, then check the interior height. Some manufacturers list dimensions for their crates, so compare these against your measurements rather than relying on the size category alone.
Are soft-sided crates safe for car travel?
Soft crates can be used in cars when they are securely anchored. They offer less crash protection than rigid crates, so many owners choose hard-sided or metal crates for longer or higher-speed trips. If you have concerns about restraint for your specific dog, consult a veterinarian or a certified professional dog trainer.
Do airlines accept soft-sided crates?
Policies vary by airline and by whether the crate travels in the cabin or in cargo. Many airlines require rigid, leak-proof carriers, while some accept soft crates that meet their size limits. Always confirm the current rules directly with the airline before you book.
How do I help my dog get used to a traveling crate?
Introduce the crate at home with the door open, placing treats and a familiar blanket inside. Gradually increase the time your dog spends inside with the door closed, and practice short car rides while the dog is crated. For a step-by-step approach, see Why Is Crate Training Important for Dogs? Benefits and How-To.
Is a wire crate good for travel?
Wire crates are durable and well ventilated, but they are heavier and less protective in a collision than rigid plastic. They work well for home use and for travel when secured properly. Review Wire Dog Crates: Home Use and Limits for more on their limits.
Can I use a collapsible crate for air travel?
Collapsible crates are sometimes accepted, but many airlines specify rigid construction. Confirm with your airline and check the crate’s labeling before your trip. When in doubt, a hard-sided carrier is the safer choice for flying.
How often should I check the crate during a long trip?
Stop regularly so your dog can drink water, stretch and relieve itself. Check that the crate is still secure, the vents are clear and the dog is not overheating. Keep the crate in a shaded or climate-controlled area during stops.
Conclusion
For most owners, the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate is a practical starting point because it combines generous interior space with easy folding. Frequent road travelers may prefer the 36-inch soft-sided model with a plush pad and leash attachment. Anxious or chewing dogs do better in the heavy-duty wire kennel, while the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel is the most relevant option for air travel. Owners of heavier dogs should look at the 90-pound-rated soft crate and confirm the interior dimensions, and budget-minded buyers will find the 36-inch two-door crate a reasonable fit. Measure your dog, confirm your airline or vehicle requirements, and choose the material that matches your dog’s temperament.
Sources
- Consumer product safety information, including guidance on pet product hazards and recalls (cpsc.gov)
- Crate training and travel guidance for dogs from a breed-focused canine organization (akc.org)
- Veterinary guidance on safe transport of companion animals (avma.org)
Related reading
About Audrey Hayes
Audrey Hayes is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our dogs & puppies guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
