10 Best Dog Carriers 2026 in the United States

The Petmate Large Breeds Dog Kennel is designed to cater to larger dogs, accommodating pets up to 90 lbs. With dimensions of 40" L x 27" W x 30" H, it offers ample space for your pet, making it suitable for comfortable long-term use. The material used is a blend, providing decent durability. One notable feature is its easy-open latch, allowing you to open the kennel with one hand, which is convenient for quick access.

The kennel also includes side vents to promote healthy airflow, ensuring your pet stays well-ventilated during travel or at home. This Petmate kennel meets most airline cargo specifications, making it a good choice for air travel as well. At 24 lbs, it’s relatively lightweight for its size, enhancing its portability. However, the kennel's bulkiness might make it less convenient for those looking for a more compact option for frequent travel.

Safety-wise, the kennel offers a secure environment, but some users might find the material less sturdy compared to more premium models. Comfort is adequately addressed with its spacious interior, although additional bedding might be needed for extended comfort. This kennel is particularly beneficial for large breed dog owners seeking a reliable travel and home solution, but might not be the best option for those prioritizing compactness or top-tier material strength.

The Petmate Pet Porter Fashion Dog Kennel is a sturdy, airline-approved carrier designed for small to medium dogs weighing 15-20 pounds. Its size (about 24 x 16.5 x 14.5 inches) offers enough room for your pet to turn around and lie down comfortably, which is important for travel or home use. Made from durable plastic, the crate is easy to clean, and the stay-dry moat inside helps keep your dog dry if accidents happen. Ventilation is well thought out, with openings on four sides that provide good airflow and visibility, helping your pet stay calm and comfortable. The fold-down handle adds portability, making it easier to carry, and the secure wire door with an easy-open latch keeps safety in mind during transport. Additionally, the built-in storage compartment is handy for treats or important papers.

While the plastic shell is strong, it may be a bit heavier compared to soft-sided carriers, which might be a consideration for some users. Also, the size is best suited for dogs up to 20 pounds, so it won't work well for larger breeds. This carrier offers a reliable, airline-friendly crate that balances comfort, safety, and practicality for small dogs during travel or everyday use.

The Kurgo G-Train is a well-designed dog carrier backpack suitable for small pets up to 25 pounds, making it great for hiking, camping, or travel. Its size (about 13 by 21 by 10 inches) is roomy enough for small dogs or cats and the interior includes a swivel tether to keep your pet safely secured. The material choice includes a waterproof bottom that helps protect against moisture and makes cleaning easier, while the top is made from water-resistant fabric. This also helps keep your pet dry in light rain or damp conditions. Ventilation is addressed with mesh panels to provide airflow, which helps keep pets comfortable during use. The backpack is padded, which offers extra comfort for your pet on longer trips.

Portability is strong with backpack straps, chest and hip belts for balanced weight distribution, and grab handles for easy carrying. The backpack is also TSA and airline approved, which adds convenience for travel. Safety features such as a locking zipper and an interior clip for attaching your pet’s harness add to peace of mind. On the downside, the material is primarily PVC, which may not be as breathable or eco-friendly compared to some other fabrics. Also, while it fits small pets well, it isn’t suitable for larger dogs, so if your pet is over 25 pounds, this won’t work. Storage pockets are handy but may be limited in space if you want to carry extra gear.

The Kurgo G-Train carrier backpack stands out as a strong choice for active pet owners looking for a durable, comfortable, and travel-friendly carrier for small dogs or cats, featuring thoughtful safety and comfort components.