We really like the portability of fabric dog crates. They set up and collapse easily, are light weight and easy to carry. They also have many additional features depending on brand. From water bottle holders and extra pockets, to multiple “door” varieties, these are a definite consideration for the dog owner.

Fabric crates will be good for some dogs.  But, since they are made of fabric and secured with nylon zippers, you’ll want to use good judgment in evaluating them for your dog.  You know your dog better than anyone.  Is your dog crate trained?  Is he calm in his crate?  Would your dog be one to destroy things?  Can your dog problem solve?

The reason I ask – because I’ve had dogs breach these while performing our reviews.  Spencer destroyed one when he was a pup.  He wanted out of his crate and no way was a zipper going to stop him.  (A very expensive lesson!)  Maggie and Madison are smart…and they have figured out how the zipper works.  Both have been able to open the zippered door.  Now I make sure to use the locking clip on the crate I use for Madison.

A note to consider – if you choose to use a fabric crate for car travel:

We experienced a roadside emergency during rush hour traffic.  My friend Bob and his daughter, Vanessa, came to our rescue.  We needed to transfer my dogs from my car to his.  Spencer, then testing a plastic crate, was easy to move.  He stayed contained, and the two of us lifted the crate – an easy transfer.  Maggie, was in a fabric crate.  This particular fabric crate had a soft fabric bottom.  There was no way for us to move Maggie while in that crate.  So, while traffic was zooming by, I had to very carefully remove Maggie – who was terrified by the cars – and transfer her while Bob moved the fabric crate.  A very stressful situation for all of us.  Luckily, all worked out ok, but I wanted to give you something to think about when selecting a crate for car travel with your dog.  Is a fabric crate (soft bottomed) a good decision for your dog in the case of an emergency?