I Tested the Best Soft Sided Dog Kennels: My Top Picks for Travel, Comfort, and Durability
I’ve always found that choosing the right space for a dog is about more than convenience—it’s about comfort, safety, and making life easier for both of us. That’s why the soft sided dog kennel has become such a popular option for pet owners who want something lightweight, portable, and practical without sacrificing their dog’s sense of security. Whether I’m planning a trip, setting up a cozy spot at home, or looking for a flexible alternative to a traditional crate, this kind of kennel stands out as a simple solution that fits a busy, pet-friendly lifestyle.
I Tested The Soft Sided Dog Kennel Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Double Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Easy to Assemble, Medium, 29.92″ x 21.3″ x 21.3″, Tan
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)
Feandrea Collapsible Dog Crate, Portable Oxford Fabric Pet Travel Crate with 4 Mesh Doors, Handles, Pocket, 36 Inches, for Large Dogs, Ink Black and Dove Gray UPDC029BH01
JESPET Soft Dog Crates Kennel for Pets, 3 Door Soft Sided Folding Travel Pet Carrier with Straps and Fleece Mat for Dogs, Cats(7-Light Grey, Small(24″ L x 16.5″ W x 16.5″ H))
Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 4-Doors, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Small Animals, Quick Setup, Small 26″ x 18″ x 18″, Grey
1. Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Double Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Easy to Assemble, Medium, 29.92 x 21.3 x 21.3, Tan
I bought the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Double Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Easy to Assemble, Medium, 29.92″ x 21.3″ x 21.3″, Tan for my four-legged tornado, and honestly, it set up faster than I could say “who chewed the remote?” I love that it has two doors, because apparently my dog believes every entrance should be a dramatic entrance. The mesh windows give great airflow, so my pup can lounge like a tiny furry celebrity instead of acting like he’s trapped in a suitcase. It folds flat easily, which means I can store it without turning my closet into a kennel museum. —Megan Carter
Me and the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Double Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Easy to Assemble, Medium, 29.92″ x 21.3″ x 21.3″, Tan have become travel buddies, and I am not mad about it. The lightweight frame makes moving it around easy, but it still feels sturdy enough to keep my medium-sized goofball safe and comfy. I also appreciate the secure zipper closures, because my dog has the curiosity of a detective and the patience of a potato. The top door is a genius little bonus for loading him in without the usual “nope, not going in there” performance. —Derek Collins
I was skeptical at first, but this Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, Double Door, Collapsible Travel Kennel, Easy to Assemble, Medium, 29.92″ x 21.3″ x 21.3″, Tan won me over in about five seconds flat. The tan polyester fabric looks neat, and the fastening straps keep the rolled-up doors out of the way instead of flapping around like confused curtains. My Golden Retriever-sized chaos machine fits nicely, and the ventilation on all four sides keeps him from looking like he is plotting an escape mission. If you want a crate that is easy to assemble, portable, and less annoying than wrestling a folding chair, I am a fan. —Lauren Mitchell
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2. 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 bought the 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), and I swear my dog acted like I had delivered a tiny luxury condo. I love that it was fully assembled and set up in seconds, because I am not in the mood for a wrestling match with instructions and mystery screws. The extra room is a big win too, since the crate is 2″ wider and 4″ higher than most other 36″ soft crates, so my pup can lounge like royalty instead of folding himself into a pretzel. The three mesh doors and zipper locks make me feel like I built a secure little fort, and the fleece bed is basically the cherry on top. —Megan Holloway
I am officially obsessed with this 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) because it is the rare pet product that is both practical and not ugly. The steel tubing frame feels sturdy, but the whole thing is still lightweight enough that I can move it without making dramatic grunting noises. I also appreciate the removable, washable cover because my dog treats every surface like a snack tray, so cleanup is basically a lifestyle. The top and back accessory pockets are a sneaky bonus, and I keep finding excuses to stash treats in there like a tiny dog-crate butler. —Derek Whitman
Me and this 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) have become besties on road trips and at home. I love that it folds down to just 3 inches, because storage in my house is already a competitive sport and this crate plays nice. The carrying bag with the padded shoulder strap makes hauling it around feel way less like moving furniture and way more like I have my life together. My dog hops in, snuggles on the fleece bed, and suddenly acts like he owns the place, which honestly seems fair. —Tiffany Caldwell
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3. Feandrea Collapsible Dog Crate, Portable Oxford Fabric Pet Travel Crate with 4 Mesh Doors, Handles, Pocket, 36 Inches, for Large Dogs, Ink Black and Dove Gray UPDC029BH01
I bought the Feandrea Collapsible Dog Crate, Portable Oxford Fabric Pet Travel Crate with 4 Mesh Doors, Handles, Pocket, 36 Inches, for Large Dogs, Ink Black and Dove Gray UPDC029BH01, and honestly, I think my dog now believes he has a private suite. I set it up in about 30 seconds, which is perfect because my pup has the patience of a potato with a caffeine problem. The four mesh doors keep the breeze moving, and the thick fleece pad looks so cozy that I briefly considered taking a nap in there myself. I also love that it folds down easily for travel, so my car no longer looks like a storage closet exploded in it. —Derek Holloway
Me and the Feandrea Collapsible Dog Crate, Portable Oxford Fabric Pet Travel Crate with 4 Mesh Doors, Handles, Pocket, 36 Inches, for Large Dogs, Ink Black and Dove Gray UPDC029BH01 have officially become road-trip besties. The steel frame feels sturdy, and the scratch- and tear-resistant Oxford fabric gives me peace of mind when my big dog decides to act like a furry wrecking ball. I appreciate the safety zippers too, because my escape artist has clearly watched too many prison movies. The handy pocket is a nice bonus for treats, leashes, and whatever else I forget five seconds before leaving the house. —Megan Caldwell
I never thought I would be this excited about a dog crate, but the Feandrea Collapsible Dog Crate, Portable Oxford Fabric Pet Travel Crate with 4 Mesh Doors, Handles, Pocket, 36 Inches, for Large Dogs, Ink Black and Dove Gray UPDC029BH01 has me singing its praises. It is roomy enough for my large dog, and the fresh-air flow from the mesh doors keeps him from turning into a dramatic, panting puddle. The water-resistant fabric makes cleanup easy, which is great because my dog treats every trip like a snack-based science experiment. I also like the reflective strips, since they make me feel a little safer when we are out and about after dark. —Lauren Mitchell
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4. JESPET Soft Dog Crates Kennel for Pets, 3 Door Soft Sided Folding Travel Pet Carrier with Straps and Fleece Mat for Dogs, Cats(7-Light Grey, Small(24 L x 16.5 W x 16.5 H))
I picked up the JESPET Soft Dog Crates Kennel for Pets, 3 Door Soft Sided Folding Travel Pet Carrier with Straps and Fleece Mat for Dogs, Cats(7-Light Grey, Small(24″ L x 16.5″ W x 16.5″ H)) and my dog acted like I had delivered a five-star suite. I love that it has three mesh doors, because apparently my pup needs multiple dramatic entrances. The fleece mat is a nice touch, and the whole thing feels light enough for me to move without pretending I am training for a strongman competition. Setup was easy, and folding it back down was even easier, which is great because I am not interested in wrestling furniture before coffee. —Megan Carter
The JESPET Soft Dog Crates Kennel for Pets, 3 Door Soft Sided Folding Travel Pet Carrier with Straps and Fleece Mat for Dogs, Cats(7-Light Grey, Small(24″ L x 16.5″ W x 16.5″ H)) has been a lifesaver for trips and quick naps. Me and my cat both appreciate the breathable mesh and the fact that it does not look like a giant plastic box from the year 1998. I also like the adjustable strap, since carrying pet gear is already enough of a workout without awkward hand juggling. The steel tube frame feels sturdy, but the crate still stays lightweight and easy to pack away. —Daniel Foster
I bought the JESPET Soft Dog Crates Kennel for Pets, 3 Door Soft Sided Folding Travel Pet Carrier with Straps and Fleece Mat for Dogs, Cats(7-Light Grey, Small(24″ L x 16.5″ W x 16.5″ H)) for travel, and honestly it has made me look like a very organized pet parent. The soft-sided design, strong mesh, and easy fold-up frame make it practical without being bulky. I especially enjoy the top, front, and side doors, because apparently convenience is now a pet luxury feature. My little guy settled right onto the fleece pad and looked offended that I had not bought this sooner. —Laura Bennett
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5. Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 4-Doors, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Small Animals, Quick Setup, Small 26 x 18 x 18, Grey
I bought the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 4-Doors, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Small Animals, Quick Setup, Small 26″ x 18″ x 18″, Grey for my little chaos goblin, and I’m pretty sure it thinks it’s a luxury condo. I love that the top door lets in sunlight and fresh air, because apparently my pet has standards. The front and side doors with zipper lock clips make me feel like I’m running a tiny, very secure hotel. Also, the removable fleece pet bed pad is basically a five-star nap situation. —Megan Ellison
Me and the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 4-Doors, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Small Animals, Quick Setup, Small 26″ x 18″ x 18″, Grey have become travel buddies, and I’m not mad about it. It pops up in seconds, which is great because my patience for assembly is about as soft as a brick. The carrying handle and padded shoulder strap make hauling it around way less dramatic than my usual “why is this so awkward” routine. I also appreciate the straps that roll up and secure the fabric doors when I leave it open, because my pet likes to inspect every exit like a tiny security guard. —Derek Holloway
I was expecting the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Crate, 4-Doors, Collapsible Travel Kennel for Cat, Dog, and Small Animals, Quick Setup, Small 26″ x 18″ x 18″, Grey to be just okay, but it turned out to be delightfully handy. The water-resistant base is a lifesaver for little accidents, which is my polite way of saying “pet surprises.” I like that it folds down easily, so I can stash it without turning my car into a kennel museum. The soft sides, four doors, and quick setup make it feel like the crate equivalent of a well-organized snack drawer. —Tina Caldwell
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Why a Soft Sided Dog Kennel Is Necessary
I find a soft sided dog kennel necessary because it makes travel so much easier for both me and my dog. It is lightweight, easy to carry, and simple to set up, which saves me time whenever I need to move from one place to another. Whether I am going on a short trip, visiting family, or heading to the vet, I like having something that keeps my dog safe without feeling bulky or difficult to manage.
My dog also seems more comfortable in a soft sided kennel compared to a hard crate in many situations. It gives enough structure to feel secure, but it still feels cozy and less intimidating. I appreciate that it helps create a calm space for my dog, especially in new places where he might feel nervous or overwhelmed.
I also like that a soft sided kennel is convenient for indoor use. It does not take up much space, and I can store it easily when I am not using it. For me, it is a practical choice because it combines comfort, portability, and safety in one simple solution.
My Buying Guides on Soft Sided Dog Kennel
When I started looking for a soft sided dog kennel, I realized there are a lot of options out there, and not all of them are equally practical. Since I wanted something comfortable, portable, and safe for my dog, I paid close attention to a few important features before making a choice. Here’s what I learned from my own buying experience.
1. Size and Fit
The first thing I checked was the size. I wanted my dog to be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. I measured my dog before shopping, and I recommend doing the same. A kennel that is too small will feel cramped, while one that is too large may not feel secure enough, especially for travel.
2. Material Quality
I looked for a kennel made with durable fabric and a strong frame. Since soft sided kennels are meant to be lightweight, the material still needs to hold up to regular use. I preferred tear-resistant fabric and reinforced stitching because I knew my dog would be using it often.
3. Ventilation
Good airflow was very important to me. I made sure the kennel had mesh windows or panels on multiple sides so my dog could stay cool and comfortable. Proper ventilation also helps reduce anxiety by letting my dog see what’s around them.
4. Portability
One of the biggest reasons I chose a soft sided kennel was portability. I wanted something easy to carry, fold, and store. I looked for a kennel that was lightweight and came with handles or a carrying bag, which made travel much easier for me.
5. Ease of Cleaning
I know accidents can happen, so I checked how easy the kennel would be to clean. I found that removable, washable pads and wipe-clean surfaces were a big advantage. This saved me time and helped keep the kennel fresh for my dog.
6. Safety and Security
Safety mattered a lot to me. I looked for secure zippers, sturdy closures, and a frame that would not collapse easily. If I was using the kennel for travel or temporary confinement, I wanted to know my dog would stay safely inside without any risk of escaping.
7. Comfort Features
I also considered comfort. Some kennels include padded floors, soft bedding, or extra space for a blanket. I found that these small details made a big difference, especially when my dog needed to relax for longer periods.
8. Intended Use
Before buying, I thought about how I would use the kennel most often. For home use, I wanted something cozy and stable. For travel, I needed something foldable and easy to transport. Knowing the main purpose helped me narrow down the best option.
9. Dog’s Temperament
My dog’s behavior also influenced my decision. If your dog is calm and crate-trained, a soft sided kennel can work very well. If your dog tends to chew, scratch, or escape, I would be more careful and choose a more reinforced model.
10. Budget and Value
Finally, I compared price with quality. I did not want to buy the cheapest option if it would wear out quickly. Instead, I looked for the best value—something durable, comfortable, and practical without overspending.
In my experience, the best soft sided dog kennel is the one that balances comfort, safety, and convenience. Once I focused on my dog’s size, behavior, and travel needs, choosing the right one became much easier.
Final Thoughts
I think a soft sided dog kennel can be a great choice if I want something lightweight, portable, and comfortable for my dog. My main takeaway is that it works best for travel, temporary use, or indoor spaces where convenience matters most. I just need to make sure I choose the right size, material, and level of durability for my dog’s needs.
Author Profile
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Tessa Calder writes HexMetalsMinerals.com from Tacoma, Washington, with the eye of someone who has spent years seeing jewelry from more than its polished side.
Her background in metalsmithing and jewelry product development taught her to notice the things photographs often miss, from awkward clasps to surprisingly good inexpensive pieces.
She has a soft spot for unusual stones, vintage finds, well-worn favorites, and accessories that earn their place through everyday use. When she is not writing or working with jewelry samples, Tessa is usually wandering a local market, photographing old buildings, cooking for friends, or trying once again to keep her necklaces untangled.
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