Dogs are man’s best friend, so they should be with us everywhere we go. Some destinations are quite far from home. For this review, we’ve tested 5 dog crates for cars and also consulted with experts. We promise, you’ll find real help here 🙂

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Buying Guide

Planning to go on vacation or take a trip with your dog? Then you won’t do without a car dog crate.

A car dog crate is a cage used for transporting a dog. This provides the necessary safety for your dog during the car ride.

There are now dog crates on the market that serve as a retreat for the dog. So, in addition to dog cages for the car, there are also foldable and collapsible dog crates.

These crates are made of plastic, nylon, or aluminum. A car dog crate is secured in the trunk or on the back seat with a hook or straps.

Do you want to lead a worry-free life with your dog? Then you must treat him as you would any other family member. This means ensuring his safety and well-being.

Indeed, having a dog in your life brings many benefits. It helps you, as a single person, to meet more people and become more social.

Do you have a family? Then a dog has a positive impact on the development of your children.

Do you want to have your beloved furry friend with you everywhere? Then you should buy a car dog crate.

This way, you can take your dog on outings or trips with you.

What to Consider with a Car Dog Crate? Here are the following 5 points to note:

1. Why the Car Transport Box is Sensible

When driving a car, humans need to buckle up for adequate safety.

Because during an accident, tremendous forces act on the body, which can cause severe injuries.

Unfortunately, this risk also applies to your dog. Note: General safety measures such as seat belts and airbags are designed to protect humans.

A dog is not protected in an accident. He can be thrown through the vehicle during a collision. This is not only dangerous for him but also for humans.

Even if there’s a brief moment of shock, your dog can leap through the car and create a life-threatening situation.

Therefore, a dog transport box for the car is indispensable.

With a dog transport box, high acceleration cannot be generated because your dog is secured in the box.

Furthermore, your dog is enclosed in the dog box. He cannot pose a danger to other occupants.

Finally, the car transport box is much more useful than traditional plastic dog boxes.

Because they are not as robust as metal dog transport boxes. Therefore, smaller dog boxes offer fewer advantages.

2. Types of Dog Crates

There are now a variety of different dog crates available. These are distinguished into foldable or collapsible and rigid dog transport boxes. We would like to go into more detail on the individual types of dog crates below.

Foldable Dog Transport Boxes:

The foldable dog transport box is the all-rounder. You can use this box for transport and as a dog bed in your apartment.

The foldable boxes vary greatly in their design. Some of these dog crates can be closed with a zipper. Other boxes are equipped with a clever locking system.

In general, foldable boxes made of materials such as plastic or nylon are not as robust. Some dogs like to nibble on materials. Then the foldable dog box can be quickly damaged.

If it is equipped with aluminum bars inside, the box is much sturdier.

Here is an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of a foldable dog transport box:

Rigid Dog Transport Boxes:

A rigid dog crate represents a classic dog cage. In their small versions, they are mostly made of plastic and have a carrying handle. These dog crates are therefore more suitable for small dog breeds.

For large dog breeds, the use of a rigid car dog transport box is essential. The models mostly have a trapezoidal shape. They are well suited for attachment in the trunk.

Furthermore, they mostly do not have a carrying handle. This is also a reason why this box should be attached in the trunk of the car.

Finally, these dog transport boxes have Velcro strips underneath the box. This reinforces their position in the car. The box then no longer slides back and forth.

Rigid dog transport boxes are excellent for car travel. However, they often appear very bare. Such a dog box can initially be intimidating to the dog.

Therefore, it is recommended to place a blanket inside the crate. Or at least get a non-slip mat.

The boxes are equipped with a snap or quick-release closure. Finally, there is the double box, which has much more space.

3. Buying Criteria – What to Consider

Are you convinced about buying a car dog transport box? Then consider some criteria beforehand. We’ll outline them for you below:

Size:

When it comes to the right size, your dog should have no trouble standing in the car dog transport box. Furthermore, he should have the ability to lie stretched out. For larger dog breeds, a larger dog transport box must be obtained. You must also consider that manufacturers only provide the external dimensions. Therefore, before purchasing your new dog box, measure your dog precisely and then determine the correct size. Then compare the determined size with the available sizes of the manufacturer’s dog boxes.

Weight:

Weight is important for all dog owners who want to buy a small dog box. If you have to walk a lot, you certainly don’t want to be burdened with too much weight. Even if a small dog shouldn’t weigh too much, the box should be designed so that the weight is not too heavy. Otherwise, carrying the dog box can quickly become a problem for your back.

Material:

Materials such as plastic and nylon are just as good as aluminum. However, they are suitable for different purposes. So a dog box made of plastic and nylon is more suitable for short transport. This is because they are less stable. However, they are more comfortable for the dog. The dog can make himself comfortable in this dog box at home or use the box as a dog bed.

Compared to these materials, an aluminum dog box is suitable for longer transport. Aluminum is a robust and rustproof material. So a car dog transport box is particularly high quality when it is made of fiberglass-reinforced plastic connections. More expensive dog boxes pay off. They impress with higher stability and durability.

Air Circulation:

Your dog must be able to breathe well in the car dog transport box. Unfortunately, not all boxes are designed to allow good air circulation. A good transport box should be built so that it has wide spacing between the bars and windows. A poorly built dog box can be torture for the dog if air circulation is not good.

Visibility:

If you’re not traveling in the car for long periods, it’s not a problem if your dog doesn’t have visibility. However, on longer trips, it’s important that he can perceive his surroundings and experience the journey. Otherwise, he can quickly become restless.

4. Securing Your Dog in the Car

Safety is paramount for all occupants in the car. A dog in the car that is not in a dog transport box can endanger the lives of all occupants.

At first glance, this may seem unlikely. However, you must imagine what could happen in the event of an accident.

The consequences can be devastating. Even a dog secured on the rear seat or in the trunk is not sufficiently protected in an accident.

For such cases, the AAA (American Automobile Association) has provided the following advice:

Firstly, it’s important that the car dog transport box is positioned perpendicular to the direction of travel behind the rear seat backrest. Furthermore, larger boxes should always be secured.

The seat backrests are not strong enough to provide adequate support for the box. For this case, an optional robust cargo space partition grid is suitable.

In contrast, a smaller transport box should be placed in the footwell behind the front seat. There, the box enjoys extremely secure support.

The AAA (triple-A) highlights safety measures, such as how to use a seatbelt.

This way, your dog cannot be thrown far forward in the event of an accident. A short and bilateral fixation proves to be useful. Well-known brands include Isofix and Doggy-Protect.

5. Alternatives for Securing Your Dog in the Car

Dog transport boxes come in a variety of sizes, types, shapes, and colors. Furthermore, various materials are used in their manufacture.

Based on the size, you can determine whether it should be mounted on the rear seat or in the trunk of your car.

There are different types of car dog transport boxes. We will show you alternative ways to secure your dog in the car and provide him with a sense of security:

Protective Blanket:

A protective blanket is a large blanket that you can attach to the headrests of the vehicle. The blanket can be laid out on the rear seat. It has the great advantage that it can be used by the dog as a sleeping place. Furthermore, no hair lands on the car seat. Finally, your dog is protected from any collisions.

Pet Safety Seat:

The pet safety seat is a novelty. You can attach it with Isofix anchors. The Isofix system creates a connection between the dog and the vehicle body. The pet safety seat is considered very safe and can be attached to the rear seat. The seat is designed similar to a suitcase. It comes with a harness for the dog, providing additional safety. However, it is not very easy to attach this seat.

Safety Belt:

There are different ways to attach the dog safety belt. Some of these belts are padded and wider, protecting your dog’s chest. On the other hand, thinner belts can tear very quickly under high loads.

Safety Partition:

The safety partition consists of a flexible mesh of straps. You anchor the partition on the driver and passenger seats using seat belts. While the setup is elaborate, the safety partition guarantees a high level of security.

Partition Grid:

The partition grid is attached to the rear seat. The dog takes its place in the trunk. It should be noted that in an AAA crash test, the rear seat backrests in older vehicles were not stable enough. Therefore, the partition grids could not convince in these vehicles. In newer cars with stable rear seat backrests, the occupants are adequately protected. However, there is a risk that the dog may injure itself if the trunk is too large.

Suitable for These Dogs

Small dog boxes are particularly suitable for breeds such as Chihuahua, Jack Russell, Terrier, Miniature Pinscher, and Pug. For medium-sized dogs, dog transport boxes from Trixie or TecTake are suitable.

For very large dogs like Great Danes or German Shepherds, a dog transport box will usually not be an option.

The dog breeds must be secured with a partition between the trunk and the rear seat as well as with seat belts.

Here is an overview of the individual sizes that fit certain dog breeds. The table is based on the Petmate transport box from the manufacturer Petmate. They are available on Amazon.

Size	Dimensions	Load Capacity	Examples of Breeds
XS	51 x 33 x 33 cm	Up to 5 kg	Chihuahua
S	64 x 40 x 40 cm	Up to 10 kg	Jack Russell
M	68 x 51 x 47 cm	Up to 18 kg	Cocker Spaniel
L	81 x 56 x 59 cm	Up to 25 kg	Dalmatian
XL	90 x 60 x 68 cm	Up to 38 kg	Labrador

Product Reviews in Detail

🥇 Top Recommendation

The car dog transport box comes with a small bowl. However, it is more suitable for a smaller dog. Otherwise, dogs ranging from sizes XS to XXL can take their place in the dog box. It is from the company Karlie. The box is suitable for dog breeds such as Chihuahua, Jack Russell, Cocker Spaniel, Dalmatian, Labrador, and Rottweiler.

The box weighs 4.5 kilograms and is delivered without wheels up to size M. For sizes L, XL, and XXL, the box comes with wheels.

Premium Recommendation

This box is top-notch in quality. Even the space in the trunk is optimally utilized due to the angled sides. The door has a safety lock, and there’s also a thermal blanket included. The box is available in sizes S to XL, catering to every breed’s needs. Made of aluminum, this box is very stable, secure, and low-noise. It features extra-high walls for a clean standing area, wide grid inserts for good ventilation, and unobstructed visibility through the rear window. For more details, check out the product page.

Value for Money Recommendation

With the AmazonBasics transport box, you can easily transport your dog from A to B. The travel crate ensures that your furry friend can be transported safely and comfortably. The box is ideal for all types of trips, whether it’s trips to the park, hiking trails, or the vet. The box includes 2 doors (1 at the front and 1 at the top), providing 2 options for loading your dog.

The easy loading reduces stress for both you and your pet. Excellent airflow is ensured on the sides, top, and back. For additional safety, screws are provided for attaching the top and bottom. There’s a snap lock for easy opening. The top roof has a handle and latch, allowing it to be opened to the right or left as desired.

Foldable Alternative

This transport box is lightweight, flexible, and practical. You can take your beloved pet anywhere.

It has a clever design and is equipped with sturdy metal reinforcement, thick Oxford fabric cover, and a soft faux fur mat.

The box is easy to clean. Stains and dirt can be removed with a soft brush. If necessary, the cover is also removable.

It is absolutely safe. The three-sided windows ensure air circulation, and rounded corners protect your car and furnishings.

This dog box folds up in seconds. No tools are necessary.

Conclusion

Your dog is your best friend, so you should provide them with the utmost safety and comfort, especially when it comes to transportation.

A dog transport box for the car is the perfect solution for all dog lovers who want to take their furry friend everywhere. With a transport box, you can offer your dog a safe and comfortable place where they feel at home.

The best dog transport boxes on the market not only provide safety and comfort for your dog but are also easy to set up and transport. With good air circulation, the right size, and easy cleaning, you can make your dog’s journey as pleasant as possible.

A dog transport box gives you the peace of mind that your dog is always safe and protected, no matter where you go. You can be sure that your loyal companion stays in the box and poses no danger to you, other passengers, or themselves.

So why leave your dog at home when you can take them everywhere? A dog transport box for the car is the best solution for all dog lovers who want to have their beloved pet with them at all times while ensuring their safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which manufacturers are there?

Here is a list of manufacturers and brands for car dog transport boxes:

How can I clean the transport box?

A car dog transport box is not difficult to clean. All you need is soapy water and a cloth.

Nylon dog boxes can be washed. Of course, you should regularly clean dog accessories like cushions, blankets, and bowls. But that should go without saying.

What is the legal situation regarding dogs in cars?

According to the Road Traffic Regulations, a dog is considered cargo.

Cargo must be secured in the car. Otherwise, a warning or fine of $35 or more may be imposed.

If an unsecured dog causes an accident, the comprehensive insurance will not pay. The liability insurance can reclaim the money from the driver.

Therefore, it is important to secure your dog properly in the car.

What can I put in the box?

Whether you have a foldable dog box or a rigid one, always put dog accessories such as cushions or a dog blanket inside. This will make your dog feel comfortable and relaxed during the journey.

Attach it to the back seat or trunk?

That’s a very good question. The car dog transport box can be placed on the back seat or in the trunk.

The dog box should not be placed on the front passenger seat if you cannot deactivate the airbag. If there is an accident, your dog could be seriously injured.

The AAA recommends securing the dog transport box behind the backrest. This means that you should place the car dog transport box in the trunk facing forward.

If you have a very large box, you must also secure the dog box additionally. For this purpose, you can use a separation grille. You should anchor this between the trunk and the back seat.

Do you have a smaller dog box? Then it is sufficient to place it in the footwell behind the driver’s or front passenger’s seat. However, you can also place your dog on the back seat.

Before you set off on your journey or outing with your car and your dog, consider where to place the dog box in the car.

Keep in mind that every dog needs a certain period of adjustment for the dog box. A little patience is therefore important at the beginning.

Once your pet has become accustomed to the dog transport box, they will be able to take their place much faster or even voluntarily enter the box.