6 Best Small Dog Crates For Travel And Training

Between livestock rotations and seasonal planting, a reliable crate is the unsung hero of a farm dog’s daily life. Whether transporting a new pup to the vet or providing a quiet sanctuary after a long day in the pasture, the right containment system prevents chaos. Quality equipment reduces stress for both the handler and the animal, turning a logistical hurdle into a smooth transition.

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Diggs Revol Dog Crate: Best for Safety & Style

The Diggs Revol stands out for those who prioritize structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. It utilizes a diamond-mesh wire design that eliminates the sharp edges often found in traditional, cheaper crates. This minimizes the risk of a dog catching a claw or snagging a collar, which is a significant safety upgrade for high-energy working breeds.

The gate mechanism is intuitive and mimics human door hardware, making it far more secure than the typical slide-bolt latches. It features a collapsible, garage-style door that stays out of the way, allowing for easy access when loading supplies or grooming. It is an excellent choice for owners who need a semi-permanent indoor setup that looks intentional rather than clinical.

This crate is a premium investment, but the durability justifies the cost for those managing a busy home environment. If the goal is a crate that disappears into the decor while offering top-tier security, the Diggs Revol is the gold standard. It is not the most portable option, but it is undoubtedly the safest for long-term confinement.

Petmate Sky Kennel: The Top Pick for Air Travel

When transit involves air travel or strict IATA (International Air Transport Association) requirements, the Petmate Sky Kennel is the industry benchmark. Its heavy-duty plastic construction provides a solid, enclosed environment that limits visual distractions. This is crucial for keeping a dog calm in the high-stress environment of a cargo hold.

The ventilation is built into the perimeter, ensuring steady airflow without sacrificing the structural shell. It includes sturdy, interlocking bolts that hold the top and bottom halves together, preventing accidental separation under pressure. The latching mechanism is simple yet failsafe, designed to hold up under the rigors of airport transport.

This is not a crate designed for daily folding or storage, as it is meant to stay assembled. It is the specific tool for the job if the dog needs to fly or requires a den-like enclosure for travel anxiety. For owners who occasionally transport their dogs on long-distance trips, the Sky Kennel remains the most reliable, time-tested solution.

MidWest iCrate Starter Kit: Best All-in-One

The MidWest iCrate is the quintessential choice for those just starting the training journey. This kit typically includes a divider panel, which is the most critical feature for crate training a growing puppy. It allows the crate to expand as the dog grows, preventing the need to buy multiple sizes in the first year.

The folding design is incredibly practical for the limited storage space common in farmhouses or sheds. It sets up and breaks down in seconds, making it easy to move between the mudroom, the back of a truck, and the house. While it lacks the heavy-duty reinforced construction of pricier models, it is more than sufficient for house-broken dogs.

Choosing the iCrate is a smart financial decision for those who need a functional, versatile solution immediately. It provides exactly what is needed for training success without unnecessary gimmicks. If the dog is prone to extreme destructive behavior or high anxiety, a more reinforced option might be required, but for general purposes, this is the reliable workhorse.

EliteField 3-Door Soft Crate: Best for Comfort

Soft crates offer a significant weight advantage for handlers who need to move equipment frequently. The EliteField 3-Door utilizes a steel tube frame covered in durable fabric, providing a structured yet lightweight enclosure. The three-door configuration allows for flexible placement, whether the crate is tucked in a car trunk or a corner of a room.

The interior is soft and inviting, which often helps dogs that are hesitant to enter hard, metallic crates. Because it is collapsible, it takes up minimal space when stored in the tack room or vehicle. It is a fantastic option for calm, house-trained dogs that need a mobile “home base” during competitions or trips.

It is important to note that soft crates are not for heavy chewers or dogs prone to panic. A determined dog can tear through fabric, making this unsuitable for unsupervised containment of untrained animals. For well-behaved dogs that need a comfortable spot to rest during travels, this is the most user-friendly choice.

Gunner G1 Small: The Most Indestructible Option

The Gunner G1 is effectively the tank of the dog crate world. Constructed with double-walled, rotomolded plastic, it is virtually impossible for a dog to damage. If the primary concern is vehicle safety during high-speed travel, this is the only logical choice, as it is engineered to withstand extreme impacts.

The crate features a reversible door, drainage system for easy cleaning, and integrated tie-down pins. It is heavy and substantial, designed to be anchored securely in the back of a truck or SUV. This level of protection comes with a premium price tag and a significant weight that makes it less than ideal for those who need to move the crate daily.

The Gunner G1 is recommended only for those who transport their dogs frequently and prioritize maximum impact safety above all else. It is a one-time purchase that will likely outlast every other piece of equipment on the farm. If the budget allows and safety is the priority, there is no substitute for this level of engineering.

AmazonBasics Folding Crate: Best Budget-Friendly

For those who need a functional crate without frills, the AmazonBasics folding crate is a sensible choice. It provides the essential features of a standard wire crate—removable tray, secure latches, and a divider—at a price point that makes sense for most budgets. It is a no-nonsense tool that performs exactly as advertised.

While the wire gauge is thinner than high-end models, it holds its shape well under normal use. The coating is smooth and generally resists rust if kept reasonably dry. It is perfectly adequate for keeping a dog contained during short car trips or for nighttime sleeping in a protected area.

This crate serves as a great secondary unit for keeping in a separate building or as a backup. It is not the most robust option for an escape artist, but for the average dog owner, it strikes a perfect balance of cost and utility. It proves that effective training equipment does not have to be expensive to get the job done.

How to Choose the Right Crate Size for Your Dog

A crate should be just large enough for the dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. If the crate is too large, the dog may designate one corner as a bathroom, which defeats the purpose of house-training. Always measure from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, then add a few inches for movement.

• Height: Add 2–4 inches to the top of the dog’s head while standing.
• Length: Add 4–6 inches to the length of the dog lying down.
• Adjustability: Always look for crates that include a divider panel to accommodate growth.

Avoid the temptation to buy a “lifetime” size for a puppy. A crate that is too big allows the puppy to avoid their waste, which creates bad habits. Start small and use the divider to expand the space as the dog matures.

Crate Training Basics: Building a Positive Space

Crate training should never be viewed as a punishment, but rather as creating a den. Place the crate in a central area of the home where the dog feels like part of the activity. Feeding meals inside the crate helps the dog build positive associations with the space, turning it into their personal territory.

Consistency is the most vital component of the training process. Never force a dog into the crate, as this can create fear and anxiety. Instead, use high-value treats and quiet praise to encourage them to enter on their own. Once they are comfortable inside, gradually increase the duration of the door being closed while staying nearby.

A well-trained dog will eventually seek out the crate when they need to rest or hide from noisy chaos. This behavior is a clear indicator of success. Patience is required, especially in the early weeks, but a solid foundation prevents future behavioral issues.

Hard vs. Soft Crates: Which Is Best for You?

Hard crates—whether plastic or wire—offer superior durability and security. They are the best choice for training puppies, heavy chewers, and ensuring maximum safety during vehicle travel. Hard-sided plastic kennels, in particular, provide a sense of security that can calm nervous travelers by limiting their field of vision.

Soft crates provide convenience and comfort for the handler and the dog. They are ideal for light travel, exhibitions, or indoor use for dogs that are already crate-trained. However, they lack the structural integrity required to contain a dog that is stressed or determined to escape.

Ultimately, the choice depends on the specific dog’s temperament and the intended use case. Most hobby farmers benefit from owning at least one hard-sided crate for primary training and travel safety. A soft crate can then be added to the toolkit for specific, low-stakes situations where portability is the priority.

Securing a Crate Safely Inside Your Vehicle

A loose crate is a projectile in the event of a sudden stop or collision. Always secure the crate to the vehicle using heavy-duty tie-down straps or specific anchor points. Never rely on the crate’s weight alone to keep it in place, as the physics of a moving vehicle can easily shift even heavy crates.

Position the crate so that it is braced against a seat back or the side of the cargo area. If using a truck bed, ensure the crate is shielded from direct wind and elements, and that it is strapped firmly to the vehicle’s frame. A properly secured crate protects the dog, the other passengers, and the vehicle interior.

Regularly check the anchor points and the crate hardware for any signs of wear. Vibration on gravel roads and farm paths can loosen fasteners over time. Taking two minutes to verify the security of the crate before driving saves significant headaches in the long run.

Investing in a quality crate is an investment in the longevity and happiness of a farm dog. By selecting the right tool for specific requirements—whether it is travel safety, house-training, or daily containment—the overall management of farm life becomes significantly easier. Start with a solid foundation, prioritize safety, and ensure the dog views their crate as a welcome refuge at the end of a long day.