Top 10 Airline-Approved Crates For Dogs

It is not easy to travel with your dog on an airplane. Airlines have come up with several restrictions for pet travel. While owners may pass through a metal detector, pets need dog crates for airlines.

Your dog may not feel comfortable traveling through an unknown environment. That’s why it is important to prepare your dog for air travel. Your dog travel crate is perhaps the most important travel accessory for your pet.

Different airlines have laid down several requirements with regard to dog crates for airline travel. It may become hard to find a large dog airline crate. Do not worry. Smart dog owners have shortlisted the top 10 airline-approved crates for dogs.

Vaccine requirement is another tricky part of your dog’s air travel. Make sure that your dog is fully vaccinated before taking him on an air trip. Check your airline’s vaccine requirements before vaccinating your dog.

Read the article below to know all about airline-approved crates for dogs:   

Dog Travel Crate Requirements: Things You Need & Things to Avoid

When it comes to dog travel crate requirements, three things are very important. These are size, washability, and additional features. You need a perfect crate size for your dog. A good dog travel crate size ensures that your dog is safe and comfortable.

Your dog travel crate should meet all the airline travel requirements. You have to look for a soft-sided carrier if you want to fit the crate under your seat. It may become difficult to fit the hard-sided travel crate under your seat.

Your carrier’s weight should comply with your airline’s weight limit. It varies from airline to airline. So, you have to check your airline’s carrier weight limit before selecting a suitable dog travel crate.

Smart dog owners know that dogs can create mess anywhere, especially during air travel. So you have to look for a waterproof or water-resistant travel crate for your dog. Some dog travel crates come with a removable liner or bedding.

It is an important feature that your need in a dog travel crate. Unlike common carriers, some carriers come with special features to meet your specific needs. These features may include padded straps or locking zippers.      

Features to Look for in an Airline-Approved Dog Crate

  • You need to look for the right size. Tall dogs may not fit a small travel crate.
  • Dogs can create a mess during air travel. You have to make sure that your airline-approved dog crate is washable. It should be water-resistant or waterproof.
  • Your airline-approved dog crate can contain a removable liner or bedding.
  • You may prefer an airline-approved dog crate if it contains padded straps or a locking zipper.
  • Your airline-approved dog crate should comply with your airline’s weight requirements. Heavy airline crates may not meet your airline’s specific weight requirements.  

Airline-Approved Pet Crates: Find an Awesome Travel Crate for Your Next Flight

1. Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier, 28 Inch

Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier, 28 Inch

Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier, 28 Inch

Sometimes your travel mate may need something tall and durable for airline travel. Petmate Sky Kennel Pet Carrier is an airline approved dog crate that comes with a travel kit. The travel kit may meet your needs in specific circumstances.

For instance, you will find extra metal bolts in the travel kit in case your airline requires them. Petmate Sky Kennel dog crate for airplane is a smart choice because it is a TSA-approved carrier.

Petmate Sky Kennel Carrier provides 360 Degree ventilation to your dog. You do not have to worry about visibility while using Petmate Sky Kennel Carrier. It comes with useful accessories, such as two “Live Animal” stickers, ID stickers, and clip-on bowls.

Petmate Sky Kennel is popular because it takes into account your pet’s natural denning instincts. Simply put, your dog remains comfortable due to ample space in the Petmate Sky Kennel Carrier.

The carrier design is much similar to a small cage. It is like a small, portable dog house. Fresh air can move in the Petmate dog traveling kennels. It’s built from industry-leading plastic that won’t harm your dog. Petmate Sky Kennel is definitely the best option for a small dog.

Petmate Sky Kennel provides value for money as the carrier has heavy-duty construction. It comes in a traditional, time-tested design. The vault door provides extra protection for your dog.

Pros

  • Durable
  • Vault door
  • Clip-on bowls
  • Comes in six different size ranges
  • Quality design
  • Live Animal stickers
  • Extra bolts

Cons

  • Some users have trouble finding the right kennel size.

2. Petsfit Expandable Dog Carriers

Petsfit Expandable Dog Carriers

Petsfit Expandable Dog Carriers

Sometimes you need a smart and beautiful dog carrier. Petsfit is perhaps a good choice for all those passengers who like to put the dog carrier beneath their seats. That’s because Petsfit is a soft-sided dog carrier.

It is a lightweight yet sturdy dog carrier because it is made using Metal, Polyester, Nylon, and Polypropylene. Metal supports the structure and provides protection. Polyester, nylon, and polypropylene ensure your dog’s comfort.

It is an expandable dog carrier. So, you do not have to worry about your dog’s safety and comfort while using the Petsfit dog carrier. It meets the natural denning instincts of your dog.

It is an easy-to-carry dog carrier. It comes with two handles. You can easily carry your dog without worrying about his protection. That’s because the Petsfit dog carrier comes with a self-lock zipper.

Petsfit has ensured the stability of the dog carrier. The strap-on Petsfit dog carrier can be attached to your luggage.

Your dog can make a lot of mess during air travel. Good news! Petsfit dog carrier is a washable carrier. You can use it for international travel. Petsfit carrier has a padded floor.

Petsfit dog carrier has breathable mesh parts that do not get damaged when your dog picks on them. Petsfit dog carrier has a collapsible false wall between the carrier and the extendable parts.

Petsfit dog carrier has a unique design. You may not get the same space in other dog crates.

Pros

  • Extendable
  • Comfortable padding
  • Self-lock zipper
  • Breathable mesh parts
  • Washable
  • Removable straps
  • Collapsible false wall

Cons

  • Stitching problems can occur
  • Zippers can break

3. PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack for Dogs

PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack for Dogs

PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack for Dogs

PetAmi dog carrier is perhaps the ideal backpack for hiking and air travel. It comes with a cushion back support. PetAmi backpack is not just your ordinary backpack. It provides a safe and comfortable space for your dog.

PetAmi has a firm structure that provides good airflow and two-way entry. PetAmi dog carrier is comfortable for dogs because it comes with lined bedding. You can store your dog’s accessories in the side pockets.

PetAmi backpack is an easy-to-carry dog carrier backpack. It comes with chest and waist buckles. PetAmi provides value for money. You can use it for long international trips. Your 12 lb Chihuahua can easily fit into a PetAmi backpack.

Pros

  • Can fit under the seat
  • Easy-to-carry
  • Padded back
  • Chest and waist straps
  • Plenty of space
  • Ventilated

Cons

  • Does not have a machine washable liner
  • Size issues

4. KOPEKS Deluxe Backpack

KOPEKS Deluxe Backpack

KOPEKS Deluxe Backpack

It is perhaps the most portable dog carrier backpack. It has two wheels at the base and a handle at the top. Kopeks dog carrier can be used as a trolley. From the looks of it, Kopeks deluxe backpack is a well-ventilated trolley.

You do not face visibility issues while using this backpack. It is a highly sturdy dog carrier backpack as it remains stable and lasts longer than the other products of the same category.

Kopeks deluxe backpack is made from aluminum and polyurethane. We have used it every day for 30 days. The safety zipper works fine. It provides safety and comfort to your doggo. However, you may have size issues if you use it for Frenchies or Maltipoo.

Pros

  • Sturdy
  • Safe
  • Comfortable
  • Well ventilated
  • It can be carried in different ways

Cons

  • Difficult to assemble
  • Size issues (Not for 12 lb dogs)

5. Prodigen Airline Approved Dog Carriers

Prodigen Airline Approved Dog Carriers

Prodigen Airline Approved Dog Carriers

Prodigen has a self-lock zipper. It comes with a sturdy hook and an anti-scratch breathable mesh. Do not worry if your dog makes a mess during air travel. Prodigen dog carrier comes with a machine washable bed.

Prodigen has used high-quality fiber to make this beautiful dog carrier. It is a well-ventilated dog carrier. It is an easy-to-carry dog carrier because it has a padded shoulder strap.

It provides a comfortable and cozy environment that matches your dog’s natural denning instincts. Prodigen is a top-entry dog carrier, and you will be excited to know that dogs can easily enter it on their own.

Pros

  • Sturdy
  • Comfy
  • Water-resistant
  • Padded shoulder strap
  • Ventilated

Cons

  • It is not machine washable

6. Sherpa® Original Deluxe™ Airline Approved Dog Carrier

Sherpa® Original Deluxe™ Airline Approved Dog Carrier

Sherpa® Original Deluxe™ Airline Approved Dog Carrier

Sherpa is an airline approved dog crate that is made using polyester. It is a lightweight, sturdy, and comfortable dog carrier. It comes in black color. Sherpa’s dog carrier is well-ventilated. You will find breathable mesh on both sides of the dog carrier.

It can easily fit under your passenger seat. Sherpa dog carrier provides multiple entry options. Your dog can enter through the sides or top of the dog carrier. It provides ample space for your dog.

Pros

  • Light-weight
  • Comfortable
  • Black color
  • Multiple entry options
  • Ample space

Cons

  • Size issues

7. Sleepypod Medium Mobile Pet Bed, Dark Chocolate

Sleepypod Medium Mobile Pet Bed, Dark Chocolate

Sleepypod Medium Mobile Pet Bed, Dark Chocolate

Sleepypod is a top-entry, basket-shaped, comfortable airline approved kennel for your doggo. Luggage-grade nylon and polyester have been used to manufacture this mobile bed. You do not need to assemble this amazing dog bed.

Sleepypod has a dome shape, almost like a basket. It has padded shoulder straps that make it easy to carry. Interestingly, Sleepypod comes with an instructions card. It is a representation of a comfortable and secure lifestyle for your dog.

Sleepypod dog carrier is a tried and time-tested product. You can use Sleepypod in your car and for air travel. It has a brilliant design that ensures your dog’s safety and comfort.

The mesh dome top is a thing of beauty. Some users find it a bit expensive, but it is worth every penny. It is so comfortable that your dog may like to sleep in it all the time.

Pros

  • Top-entry
  • Dome shaped
  • Easy-to-carry
  • Comfortable
  • Secure

Cons

  • It has a high price tag!

8. MidWest Homes for Pets Skudo Plastic Carrier

MidWest Homes for Pets Skudo Plastic Carrier

MidWest Homes for Pets Skudo Plastic Carrier

MidWest Homes are airline approved crates for dogs that come in a traditional design. The whole dog carrier weighs around 18.5 Pounds. It is perfect for car and air travel. You do not need any special tools to assemble the plastic carrier. It has a handy storage compartment for your dog’s needs.

You have to buy a pet bed separately to add to your dog’s comfort. MidWest dog carrier is well-ventilated and has snap-lock buckles. Unlike other dog carriers, the MidWest Homes dog carrier does not contain breathable mesh and comes with built-in plastic air vents.

Pros

  • Sturdy
  • Spacious
  • Traditional design
  • Built-in air vents
  • Buckle locks
  • No tools to assemble
  • Hard plastic shell

Cons

  • We found no issues using this product.

9. Natuvalle Airline Approved Pet Carrier Backpack

Natuvalle Airline Approved Pet Carrier Backpack

Natuvalle Airline Approved Pet Carrier Backpack

Natuvalle airline-approved travel crates for dogs are handbag-shaped. It has reinforced stitching. It has a patented frame that protects your dog. You can easily carry your Natuvalle dog carrier.

It has two pockets to store your dog’s accessories. Natuvalle dog carrier has walk-through doors. The zipper locks ensure your dog’s protection. Natuvalle handbags come with four high ventilation meshes. It has reflective stripes.

Natuvalle is a water-resistant dog carrier that comes with padded shoulder straps. It is a highly comfy dog carrier. Natuvalle dog carrier is easy-to-carry because it is a lightweight carrier. The zippered mesh is the cherry on top.

Interestingly, some users find it heavier than other dog carriers. There is no need to worry. You just have to make sure that you properly follow the instructions while getting the suitable size for your dog.

Pros

  • Well stitched
  • Sturdy
  • Easy-to-carry
  • Spacious
  • Comfortable
  • ID window

Cons

  • It can be heavier than others.

10. Le Sure Small Dog Carrier

Le Sure Small Dog Carrier

Le Sure Small Dog Carrier

Le Sure is an ideal airline approved dog kennel for small dogs. It can easily fit under your passenger seat. You can easily carry this dog carrier. We have tried and tested this dog carrier for over 30 days.

Le Sure carrier can easily sit alongside your luggage in the airport lounge. You can also use it on your car seat. Le Sure dog carrier can be obtained in grey or green color. You can sling it on your shoulder or carry it in your hands.

Your dog remains secure and comfortable during the journey. Your dog can pop out his head during the journey. It provides a natural denning environment for your puppy. It has metal hooks and a self-locking zipper.

Le Sure dog carrier is a smart choice for small dogs. It is not designed for large dogs. It is an ideal dog carrier for dogs that weigh around 15 Pounds. Le Sure dog carrier has a three-sided mesh that makes it a well-ventilated dog carrier.

You can store your dog’s accessories in the side pockets. The shoulder strap can be used as a temporary leash for your small dog. Your dog can enjoy breaks in the airport lounge.

You will be relieved to know that Le Sure dog carrier is a machine-washable carrier. It is made from bite-resistant material and has double-layered padding. It has oversized feet that add to stability and do not let it slip over the airport floor.

You can trust Le Sure’s protection because it provides interior safety belts. Le Sure dog carrier is a collapsible dog carrier. You can take it out of your luggage and use it wherever you want.

Pros

  • Light-weight
  • Comfortable
  • Well ventilated
  • Self-locking zippers
  • Your dog can pop his head out
  • Interior safety belts
  • Shoulder strap
  • Side pockets
  • Can fit under passenger seat
  • Collapsible

Cons

  • More Pet Airline Travel Tips

No matter how harsh it seems, large dog breeds may not be allowed in the cabin. Your large dogs can sit in the cargo hold. But you need airline-approved crates for large dogs.

Your airline-approved dog crate for large dogs should have food and water bowls. An airline-approved dog crate should follow the guidelines of your airline. You should provide extra food to your dog.

Smart dog owners always check their airline’s size requirements before selecting a TSA approved dog crate. Sometimes you fail to bring your dog to the cabin just because the trip itinerary does not allow it.

Generally, airlines can charge more just to allow dogs in cargo or cabins. This service fee may increase due to stopovers and kennel size. In certain cases, service animals do not incur additional charges until and unless they strictly follow the airline’s guidelines.  

Final Thought | Top 10 Airline-Approved Crates For Dogs

It is always best to check the specific guidelines regarding approved kennels for airlines before deciding to bring your dog into the cabin or cargo.

These requirements may vary with respect to your destination. Some travel itineraries charge an additional service fee for your dog’s air travel. So, it is better to check your airline’s guidelines before taking your dog for an air trip.

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Jackob Evans

Hi, I’m Jacob. I’ve been a professional blogger for over six years, and in that time, I’ve written countless blogs that have helped millions of people worldwide. A DVM by profession, I have treated and cured thousands of dogs, if not millions.

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