We know that your dog is an important member of your family. For many people, their pets are like their children. And just like your children, you want your furry family member to feel safe and comfortable while you’re at home or traveling.
Table of Contents:
- Top Rated Soft Side Carrier
- Top Rated Hard Side Carrier
- X-ZONE PET Airline Approved Soft-Sided Pet Travel Carrier
- Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier
- Aspen Pet Porter Travel Kennel
- Amazon Basics Soft-Sided Mesh Pet Travel Carrier
- PPOGOO Pet Travel Carriers Soft-Sided for Cats and Dogs Airline Approved Non-Toxic Odorless
Top Rated Soft Side Carrier
- Large soft sided carrier for keeping a pet comfortably contained when traveling or heading to the vet
- Removable, machine washable fleece pad; mesh ventilation panels provide comfortable air flow and visibility
- Front and top zippered openings for easy loading and access; connecting top handles and adjustable shoulder strap for convenient carrying
- Removable, machine washable fleece pad; wash separately in cool water with mild detergent and line dry completely before use; reshape if needed
- Conforms to under-seat dimensions of most airlines
Top Rated Hard Side Carrier
- Large Pet Crate: This dog kennel for large dogs has an easy-open latch for opening the dog travel carrier with one hand
- Up To 50 lbs: Suitable for pets up to – 50 lbs | Product dimensions – 32" L x 225" W x 24" H | Product weight – 14 lbs
- Air Travel: This pet carrier meets most airline cargo specifications | The Air Travel kennel for dogs cats also has ventilation on 3 sides
- Aspen Pet: Aspen Pet provides every day essentials for pet parents, dogs cats Check out Aspen Pets for leash cable tie-outs, litter box accessories, pet toys, gravity water/food bowls, pet beds, dog houses, carriers more
- Just For Pets: Petmate makes a variety of pet products for dogs, cats, chickens other small furry friends Check out our brands such as Aspen Pet, Arm Hammer, Booda, Chuckit, Pet Qwerks more
Whether you’re taking your dog with you on a road trip, on a cross-country flight, or just want them to feel safer on a trip to the vet, the right pet carrier can make all the difference. A good carrier can help keep your dog calm and comfortable while traveling.
Choosing the best carrier for your pet doesn’t need to be a struggle. There are a few key things to look for when choosing a pet carrier for your dog. It needs to be the right size and sturdy enough to hold your pup, durable and able to withstand repeated use, properly ventilated, and comfortable enough to make your pup feel safe.
You’ll need to measure your dog’s height and length to select the appropriate carrier size. The carrier needs to be large enough for him to be able to turn around in and stretch out when lying down. Begin by measuring your dog from the neck (where their collar sits) to the base of his tail. Then measure from the tops of his shoulders to the ground. Add a few inches to both measurements.
Your dog’s weight should also be considered. If your dog falls between carrier sizes due to weight, length or height, choose the larger size carrier.
We’ve reviewed several pet carriers and created this guide to help you select the best option for your beloved family member. If you’re in the market for a new pet carrier, check out the options below!
X-ZONE PET Airline Approved Soft-Sided Pet Travel Carrier
This sturdy soft-sided small pet carrier is available in medium and large sizes. They recommend using your dog’s height and length measurements, as opposed to their weight, when ordering.
- Medium Carrier: 17.5″ L x 11″W x 11″H; Recommended max load of 16 lbs.
- Large Carrier: 19.5″ L x 12″W x 12″H; Recommended max load of 20 lbs.
Made with a sturdy steel frame which prevents the top from collapsing in on the animal, and it also has a removable base insert, providing a solid surface for your dog to stand on.
This is an airline approved pet carrier that fits under the seat on most airlines and is made of Oxford fabric and mesh, which is durable and prevents rips and tears. The carrier is equipped with zipper slider that auto-locks, and it has a tether for safety, preventing your pup from escaping.
The mesh ventilation on the sides and top of the carrier allows for ample fresh air for your pet and makes checking on your pet super easy!
There are two entrances, one on the top and one on the side, making it easy for your pet to access. It also comes with a removable cozy fleece pet bed, for your pet’s comfort while you travel. The pet bed can be removed and is hand washable.
At this price point, it’s hard to beat the quality offered in this carrier!
Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier
Petmate’s Sky Kennel carrier is an airline pet carrier offered in six sizes, from 21” to 48”, so there are options for every size dog. The smaller kennels have a carrying handle to make transporting easy, while the larger kennels have a vaulted door with a horizontal wire added for extra security.
This dog carrier meets most airline cargo requirements for safe travel and even includes travel necessities such as 2 ‘Live Animal’ stickers, pet ID stickers, and clip on bowls. However, you should always check with the airline before traveling to verify their requirements.
This easy to assemble kennel provides heavy duty protection. It boasts a durable plastic shell; is assembled with noncorroding wing nuts and steel wire that is especially strong; and it has an interlocking door called a Four Way Vault Door. This secure mechanism keeps the door locked and in place.
360 degree ventilation ensures that your pet will get plenty of fresh air and will have visibility from all sides of the carrier.
The Petmate Sky Kennel is a durable and safe option for traveling with your dog in the air or on the road, keeping them comfortable and relaxed.
Aspen Pet Porter Travel Kennel
The Aspen Pet Porter Travel Kennel checks all the boxes when it comes to a large pet carrier at this price point. In fact, it’s an Amazon’s Choice product and currently ranks at #3 in hard-sided carriers in pet supplies on Amazon.
Made with a heavy-duty plastic shell, this durable kennel is easy to assemble and will accommodate dogs up to 50 lbs. However, it’s light enough at 14 lbs to allow for easy, safe transport.
This kennel features an easy-open squeeze latch for opening with one hand. And the top and bottom shells fasten together with metal nuts and bolts for secure, hassle-free, sturdy construction.
3-sided ventilation provides improved visibility and plenty of fresh air for your dog’s comfort while traveling. The plastic material makes this kennel easy to clean, should your pup have any accidents during transit.
This large pet carrier meets most airline cargo requirements. The company claims their plastic kennels comply with air and highway travel requirements, but recommends contacting your specific airline before traveling to verify their requirements.
The Aspen Pet Porter is a great value for a large, durable kennel that offers your dog comfort and safety while traveling!
Amazon Basics Soft-Sided Mesh Pet Travel Carrier
This soft-sided airline pet carrier by Amazon Basics is available in three sizes:
- Small – 13.8” L x 8.7” W x 8.7” H; Recommended max load 8 lbs.
- Medium – 16.5” L x 9.4” W x 9.8” H; Recommended max load 16 lbs.
- Large – 19.7” L x 10.2” W x 11.2”H; Recommended max load 22 lbs.
The carrier’s spring wire frame conforms to most airlines under-seat specifications, making air travel with your small dog or puppy a breeze! It’s sturdy enough that it won’t collapse on your pooch, either.
This travel carrier offers a durable design, featuring front and top openings for easy loading, carrying handles, and adjustable shoulder strap. Other features include sturdy zipper closures, a hook inside to attach to pet’s collar, a removable base insert that support’s your pet’s body, and a removable, machine-washable fleece pet bed for your pet’s comfort.
Mesh panels provide excellent ventilation and your pup will have visibility from all sides of the carrier, which is helpful for anxious or curious pets.
It also folds flat for storage, which is super convenient. This carrier offers quality construction, convenience, safety, and comfort for your pet all at a very affordable price. Don’t just take our word for it. Check out their 5-star reviews on Amazon – they have over 10,000!
PPOGOO Pet Travel Carriers Soft-Sided for Cats and Dogs Airline Approved Non-Toxic Odorless
This soft-sided carrier by PPOGOO is available in two sizes:
- Small – 16.5” L x 9.4” W x 9.8” H; Recommended maximum load of 16 lbs (7 kg).
- Large – 20” L x 10.2” W x 12” H, Recommended maximum load of 22 lbs (10 kg).
It conforms to most airlines under-seat specifications and offers a stainless steel box frame to prevent the carrier from collapsing on your pup. Some of the safety features include zipper that is self-locking, attached seatbelt and inner safety leash, metal shoulder strap connector.
Creature comforts include washable non-toxic, odorless materials, mesh windows on all sides that don’t scratch and allow air to circulate, which will allow your pet to look around, and have fresh air; a cozy removable and washable fleece pet bed, and three doors for your dog to enter and exit easily.
This carrier’s other convenient features include a side pocket which is quite convenient for stashing some special treats, medicines, toys, or waste bags; and a sila side strap that can attach to the handle of a rolling suitcase. The shoulder strap is adjustable, and the carrying strap has a nice no-slip grip. In addition, this dog carrier for plane folds flat for easy storage.
We think the combination of safety and convenience features, coupled with a very affordable price, make this an excellent small dog or puppy carrier for your travel adventures!
In conclusion, choosing a carrier for your faithful companion can help keep them safe, comfortable, and calm during travel. It may seem like a daunting task, but finding the best carrier for you and your pet can be simple when keeping your needs, size, and budget in mind.
Any of the options we’ve listed are sure to meet your air travel needs – no matter your furry family member’s size! We hope you found this information helpful.
Last update on 2020-11-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
