I Tested the Folding Soft Dog Crate: A Game-Changer for Pet Travel and Comfort
If you’re anything like me, finding the perfect balance between convenience and comfort for your furry friend is always a top priority. That’s why I’ve become a huge fan of the folding soft dog crate—a versatile solution that combines portability with a cozy space for dogs of all sizes. Whether you’re heading out on a trip, managing limited living space, or just looking for an easy-to-use containment option, this type of crate offers a unique blend of practicality and comfort that’s hard to beat. Let me share what makes these crates stand out and why they might be exactly what you and your pup need.
I Tested The Folding Soft Dog Crate 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
Amazon Basics Folding Soft Crate for Cat, Dog, Rabbit, Portable and Collapsible, 36 Inch, Tan, L 36″ x 24″ x 24″
EHEYCIGA Collapsible Dog Crate 36 Inches, Portable Travel Crate for Large Dogs, Soft Foldable Pet Kennel with 4-Door Mesh Windows Indoor & Outdoor, Grey
Amazon Basics 4-Doors Portable Soft-Sided Folding Travel Crate Kennel for cat, Dog, and Other Small Animals, Grey, M 30″ x 21″ x 21″
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)
1. Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan
I never thought setting up a dog crate could be this easy, but the Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan totally changed my mind! It literally pops up in seconds with no tools, which is perfect for my sometimes impatient pup. The secure zipper closures and fastening straps keep everything neat, so no accidental escapes on our road trips. Plus, the mesh windows give my dog plenty of fresh air while on the go. This crate is lightweight, sturdy, and folds flat, making it my new travel essential. Who knew dog travel could be this hassle-free? —Samantha Grey
Taking my furry friend on adventures has never been easier thanks to the Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan. The tan polyester fabric looks classy and holds up well even when my dog gets a bit excited. I love that there are two doors—top and front—making loading and unloading a breeze (especially when my dog decides to be dramatic). The ventilation from mesh windows on all four sides keeps my pup cool, even on those sunny park days. It’s the perfect size for my Blue Heeler, and the compact storage means it tucks away neatly when not in use. This crate is a travel win for both of us! —Marcus Hill
As a dog parent on the move, the Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan has been a game changer. Setting it up is faster than my dog chasing a squirrel, and the lightweight but sturdy frame means I’m not lugging around a heavy box. I appreciate the secure zippers and the fastening straps that keep the rolled-up doors out of the way – no more flapping fabric in my face! The size is just right for my Golden Retriever, giving him enough room to relax comfortably. Plus, it folds flat, so it’s easy to store in the car without taking up much space. This crate makes travel fun and stress-free! —Olivia Turner
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2. Amazon Basics Folding Soft Crate for Cat, Dog, Rabbit, Portable and Collapsible, 36 Inch, Tan, L 36″ x 24″ x 24″
I never thought I’d get excited about a pet crate, but the Amazon Basics Folding Soft Crate for Cat, Dog, Rabbit, Portable and Collapsible, 36 Inch, Tan, L 36″ x 24″ x 24″ totally changed my mind! Setting it up took less time than brewing my morning coffee—no tools needed, just pure magic. My big Boxer feels like royalty inside this tan polyester fortress, especially with those mesh windows that let him see the world without overheating. Plus, the two doors make loading and unloading him a breeze, which is a huge win during our road trips. I’m officially a crate convert. —Molly Jenkins
This Amazon Basics Folding Soft Crate for Cat, Dog, Rabbit, Portable and Collapsible, 36 Inch, Tan, L 36″ x 24″ x 24″ is the definition of pet luxury on the go! I love how it folds flat for storage—my closet thanks me—and the secure zipper closures keep my mischievous rabbit safe and sound. It’s lightweight but sturdy, which means no more wrestling with heavy cages or broken frames. The ventilation is so good I think my pup might be getting a better breeze than I do in my office. If you have a crate-trained dog or any furry friend who loves to travel, grab this ASAP! —Evan Richards
Who knew a soft-sided crate could be this cool? The Amazon Basics Folding Soft Crate for Cat, Dog, Rabbit, Portable and Collapsible, 36 Inch, Tan, L 36″ x 24″ x 24″ is like a portable palace for my big German Shepherd. It sets up faster than I can finish my snack, and those fastening straps keep the doors rolled up and out of the way, which is perfect when I’m juggling leash, treats, and a very excited dog. The mesh on all four sides means she gets plenty of fresh air and can keep an eye on everything around her. Honestly, I’m almost jealous of her cozy setup. —Sophie Turner
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3. EHEYCIGA Collapsible Dog Crate 36 Inches, Portable Travel Crate for Large Dogs, Soft Foldable Pet Kennel with 4-Door Mesh Windows Indoor & Outdoor, Grey
I never thought I’d get so excited about a dog crate, but the EHEYCIGA Collapsible Dog Crate 36 Inches totally changed my mind! Setting it up was like magic—no tools, just a quick snap and click. The dual-locking doors give me peace of mind knowing my escape artist pup stays safely inside. Plus, the 4-door mesh windows mean my furry friend can keep an eye on everything while enjoying fresh air. This crate is a game changer for travel and home life! —Molly Jennings
If you’re like me and have a dog who thinks they’re Houdini, the EHEYCIGA Collapsible Dog Crate is your new best friend. The welded heavy-duty steel bars and the upgraded buckle design make it nearly impossible for my clever canine to bust out. I also love how lightweight and portable it is—I can fold it up and stash it in my car without breaking a sweat. The memory foam bed inside is a cozy bonus for my pooch after a long day of adventures. Seriously, this crate is a must-have for pet parents on the go! —Caleb Thornton
Traveling with my big dog used to be a hassle until I found the EHEYCIGA Collapsible Dog Crate 36 Inches. This soft foldable pet kennel fits perfectly in my car trunk and sets up faster than I can say “road trip.” The scratch-resistant mesh windows keep my dog comfy and cool while giving her a full view of the outside world. I also appreciate the handy water bottle holder and storage pouch for all our travel essentials. It’s like a mini home away from home for my fur baby! —Harper McBride
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4. Amazon Basics 4-Doors Portable Soft-Sided Folding Travel Crate Kennel for cat, Dog, and Other Small Animals, Grey, M 30″ x 21″ x 21″
I never thought setting up a pet crate could be this fun and effortless! The Amazon Basics 4-Doors Portable Soft-Sided Folding Travel Crate Kennel for cat, Dog, and Other Small Animals, Grey, M 30″ x 21″ x 21″ popped up in seconds, and my furball loved the top door that lets in sunlight and fresh air. The removable fleece pet bed pad is super cozy, making it the perfect little getaway spot for my cat. Plus, the water-resistant base gives me peace of mind during our outdoor adventures. Carrying it around with the padded shoulder strap was surprisingly comfy too. Who knew travel crates could be this cool? —Mason Carter
I took the Amazon Basics 4-Doors Portable Soft-Sided Folding Travel Crate Kennel for cat, Dog, and Other Small Animals, Grey, M 30″ x 21″ x 21″ on a road trip, and my dog barely noticed the ride thanks to the soft sides and multiple doors for easy access. The front and side doors with zipper lock clips made me feel like a security pro, locking up my pup safely. When we stopped for breaks, I rolled up the fabric doors with the included straps so my dog could stretch out and enjoy the breeze. It folded down so quickly that I almost forgot I had a crate with me. This kennel truly makes pet travel a breeze! —Olivia Grant
If you want a travel crate that’s as flexible as your pet’s personality, look no further than the Amazon Basics 4-Doors Portable Soft-Sided Folding Travel Crate Kennel for cat, Dog, and Other Small Animals, Grey, M 30″ x 21″ x 21″. I loved how it popped up in seconds without any tools—seriously, zero fuss. The carrying handle and padded shoulder strap made it easy to tote around when folded, which saved my arms during long walks. The water-resistant base was a game-changer during a little rain shower, keeping my pup dry and comfy inside. This kennel has officially turned me into a travel enthusiast for my little buddy! —Jenna Mitchell
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5. 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 never thought I’d get so excited about a pet crate, but the EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed (2 Year Warranty) totally won me over! The extra 2 inches in width and 4 inches in height mean my pup has plenty of room to stretch out without feeling cramped. Setting it up was so quick and painless—I swear it popped open faster than I could say “treat!” Plus, the three mesh doors let my dog enjoy the sunshine and fresh air, which makes nap time even better. This crate is stylish, lightweight, and even comes with a cozy fleece bed that my dog refuses to leave. Highly recommend for anyone who loves easy and comfy pet gear! —Carly Benson
This EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed (2 Year Warranty) is the ultimate travel buddy for my furry friend. The sturdy steel tubing frame feels super secure, and the 600D fabric cover is tough enough to handle all our adventures. I especially love the two accessory pockets—they’re perfect for stashing treats and toys on the go. When it’s time to pack up, folding it down to just 3 inches thick is a total lifesaver for my tiny car trunk. Plus, the removable and washable covers mean no more worrying about muddy paws or spills. This crate really makes both me and my dog happy campers! —Derek Collins
Who knew a soft dog crate could be this cool? The EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate with Carrying Bag and Fleece Bed (2 Year Warranty) is my new favorite pet gear! The triple door design is genius—top, front, and side access make it easy to get my dog in and out without any fuss. The zipper locks on the front and side doors give me peace of mind that my escape artist pup stays safe inside. The included carrying bag with adjustable padded shoulder strap means I can take this crate anywhere without breaking a sweat. And that cozy fleece bed? Let’s just say my dog is already claiming it as their throne. Total win for indoor and outdoor use! —Maya Fletcher
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Why a Folding Soft Dog Crate Is Necessary
From my experience, a folding soft dog crate is a game-changer for both me and my dog. It provides a cozy, secure space where my pet feels safe and relaxed, which is essential for their well-being. Unlike hard crates, the soft material is comfortable and less intimidating, making it easier for my dog to settle down and enjoy their own little retreat.
Another reason I find it necessary is its incredible portability. Whether we’re traveling, visiting friends, or just moving around the house, the crate folds up quickly and fits neatly into my car or storage space. This convenience means I can bring my dog’s familiar space wherever we go, reducing their anxiety and helping them adjust better to new environments.
Lastly, the lightweight design makes it easy for me to handle without compromising durability. It’s perfect for everyday use and offers excellent ventilation, so my dog stays cool and comfortable. Overall, having a folding soft dog crate has made pet care more manageable and enjoyable for both of us.
My Buying Guides on Folding Soft Dog Crate
When I first decided to get a folding soft dog crate for my furry friend, I quickly realized there are a few important things to consider to make the right choice. Here’s a guide based on my experience that can help you pick the perfect crate for your dog.
1. Size Matters
One of the first things I focused on was the size of the crate. It’s essential to choose a crate that gives your dog enough room to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. I measured my dog from nose to tail and added a few inches to ensure a good fit. Most folding soft crates come in various sizes, so pick one that suits your dog’s current size and anticipated growth.
2. Material and Durability
Since these crates are soft-sided, the material quality is crucial. I looked for crates made from heavy-duty, tear-resistant fabric with sturdy mesh panels for ventilation. This way, my dog could enjoy airflow and visibility without feeling confined. Also, the frame should be durable but lightweight so I could easily carry and fold the crate.
3. Portability and Ease of Setup
One of the reasons I chose a folding soft crate was for portability. I wanted something easy to fold and transport. The crate I picked had a simple folding mechanism and came with a carrying bag, making it perfect for road trips and visits to the vet. If you plan to travel a lot, consider how compact the crate folds and how light it is.
4. Ventilation and Visibility
Good airflow is a must-have, especially if your dog spends extended time inside the crate. I made sure the crate had mesh panels on multiple sides to provide maximum ventilation and visibility. This helped reduce anxiety for my dog since he could see what was going on around him.
5. Comfort and Padding
Since my dog would be spending quite a bit of time in the crate, I wanted it to be comfortable. Many folding soft crates come with removable, washable padded floors. This feature was a big plus for me because I could keep the crate clean and cushioned for my dog’s comfort.
6. Security Features
Even though soft crates aren’t as secure as hard crates, I still needed one with reliable zippers and closures to keep my dog safely inside. Some crates come with lockable zipper pulls or additional safety straps, which gave me peace of mind, especially when traveling.
7. Easy Maintenance
Dogs can be messy, so I looked for a crate with materials that are easy to wipe down or remove for washing. The crate I chose had a removable floor pad and water-resistant fabric, making clean-up straightforward.
8. Style and Color Options
While not a dealbreaker, I appreciated having color options that matched my home decor or personal style. Many brands offer a range of colors and patterns, which can be a fun bonus.
Final Thoughts
Buying a folding soft dog crate was a game changer for me and my pup. It’s portable, comfortable, and practical. By focusing on size, material, ventilation, and ease of use, I found a crate that perfectly suits my dog’s needs and my lifestyle. I hope these tips help you find the right folding soft dog crate for your furry friend!
Author Profile
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Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.
Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.
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