Dog Travel Crates & Kennels in Australia — The Complete Buying Guide

Dog Travel Crates & Kennels in Australia — The Complete Buying Guide

Table of Contents

Why the Right Crate Matters

A travel crate does more than contain your dog — it gives them a familiar, secure space in an unfamiliar environment. Whether you're driving to the vet, heading to a holiday destination, or navigating an airport, a well-chosen crate can reduce your dog's stress and keep them safer in transit.

The challenge is that no single crate suits every situation. A crate that works well in the car may not meet airline requirements; one that's ideal for a small dog may be impractical for a large breed. This guide walks through the key decisions so you can choose with confidence.

Types of Dog Travel Crates

Hard-Sided Crates

Typically made from high-density plastic with a metal door and ventilation panels on the sides. These offer solid protection and are the standard requirement for most airlines when dogs travel in the cargo hold. They're durable and easy to clean, though they can be bulky to store.

Soft-Sided Crates

Constructed from fabric (usually nylon or polyester) over a collapsible frame. Lightweight and easy to fold flat when not in use, these suit calm dogs travelling in car back seats or cabin-approved airline travel. They're not suitable for dogs who chew or scratch at enclosures.

Wire Crates

Metal wire panels that fold flat for storage. These offer excellent ventilation and visibility, making them a comfortable option for dogs who feel anxious in enclosed spaces. Less practical for airline use but well-suited to car travel in station wagons or SUVs.

Airline-Approved Cabin Carriers

Smaller soft or hard carriers designed to fit under the seat in front of you. Suitable only for small dogs (typically under 8 kg including the carrier). Each airline has its own size and weight limits, so always check directly with your carrier before purchasing.

For everyday outings — vet visits, markets, and short trips — a lightweight soft carrier bag may be more practical than a full crate. Read our Best Pet Carrier Bag Australia — The Ultimate Buying Guide to explore that option.

What to Look For

Ventilation

Adequate airflow is important for your dog's comfort and safety, particularly in warm Australian conditions. Look for crates with ventilation on at least three sides. Hard-sided crates should have clearly defined vent panels rather than just small holes.

Door Security

The door latch should be secure enough that your dog can't nudge it open, but straightforward for you to operate quickly. Two-point latches (top and bottom) are more secure than single-point latches for larger or more determined dogs.

Base Stability

A crate that shifts or tips during transit adds to your dog's anxiety. Look for a non-slip base or add a non-slip mat. For car travel, consider how the crate will be secured — some crates have seatbelt loops or are designed to wedge into specific boot configurations.

Ease of Cleaning

Accidents happen, especially with puppies or anxious dogs. A removable, washable tray in the base makes clean-up much easier. Avoid crates with deep seams or fabric panels that are difficult to wipe down.

Assembly

If you'll be setting up and packing down the crate regularly, ease of assembly matters. Some wire crates fold in seconds; some hard-sided crates require tools. Check reviews for real-world assembly times before purchasing.

Sizing Guide

Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably in their crate. A crate that's too large can feel insecure; one that's too small is uncomfortable and potentially unsafe on longer journeys.

As a general guide:

  • Small (up to 10 kg): 60 cm L x 45 cm W x 45 cm H — suits Cavoodles, Pugs, Shih Tzus
  • Medium (10-25 kg): 76 cm L x 53 cm W x 58 cm H — suits Spaniels, Beagles, Whippets
  • Large (25-40 kg): 100 cm L x 67 cm W x 74 cm H — suits Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Huskies
  • Extra Large (40 kg+): 120 cm L x 76 cm W x 84 cm H — suits Great Danes, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Mastiffs

To measure your dog: length from nose to base of tail, plus 10-15 cm. Height from floor to top of head (or ears if they stand upright), plus 10 cm.

Using a Crate for Car Travel

In Australia, dogs are legally required to be restrained while travelling in a vehicle in most states. A secured crate is one of the most effective ways to meet this requirement while keeping your dog comfortable.

A few practical tips:

  • Place the crate in the boot or back seat where it won't shift during braking or cornering
  • Use a seatbelt strap or cargo barrier to prevent the crate from moving
  • Line the base with a familiar blanket or item of your clothing to help your dog settle
  • On longer trips, plan regular stops for water and a short walk
  • Never leave your dog in a crate in a parked car in warm weather — temperatures can rise dangerously quickly

Browse our range of dog crates and kennels to find options suited to car travel.

Airline Travel Considerations

If you're planning to fly with your dog, crate requirements vary significantly between airlines and depend on whether your dog travels in the cabin or cargo hold.

Key things to check with your airline before purchasing a crate:

  • Maximum dimensions and weight (including the dog) for cabin travel
  • Whether hard-sided or soft-sided crates are accepted for cargo
  • Ventilation and door latch requirements for cargo crates
  • Whether live animal stickers or specific labelling are required
  • Breed restrictions (some airlines restrict brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs in cargo)

IATA (International Air Transport Association) guidelines are a useful reference point, but individual airlines may have stricter requirements. Always confirm directly with your airline well in advance of travel.

Introducing Your Dog to a Travel Crate

A crate your dog hasn't been introduced to gradually can feel threatening rather than safe. Taking time to build a positive association before travel makes a meaningful difference to how your dog copes on the day.

A simple approach:

  • Week 1: Place the crate in a room your dog uses often, door open, with a familiar blanket inside. Let them explore at their own pace.
  • Week 2: Begin feeding meals near the crate, then just inside the door, then fully inside with the door open.
  • Week 3: Close the door briefly while your dog eats, then open it again. Gradually extend the time the door stays closed.
  • Week 4: Practice short car trips with the crate secured, building up duration over time.

Go at your dog's pace — some dogs take to crates quickly, others need more time. Avoid using the crate as a form of punishment, as this can create a negative association that's difficult to undo.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I legally need to restrain my dog in the car in Australia?

In most Australian states, yes — dogs must be restrained while travelling in a vehicle. The specific rules vary by state, so it's worth checking the road rules for your state or territory. A secured crate is generally considered an appropriate form of restraint.

Can I use a soft crate for car travel?

Soft crates can work well for calm dogs on shorter trips, but they offer less structural protection in the event of an accident compared to hard-sided or wire crates. For longer journeys or dogs who move around a lot, a more rigid option may be more appropriate.

How do I keep my dog calm in a travel crate?

Gradual crate training (as outlined above) is the most effective approach. On travel days, a familiar blanket, a worn item of your clothing, and a long-lasting chew can all help. For dogs with significant travel anxiety, speak with your vet about additional options.

What size crate do I need for two dogs?

Unless your dogs are very small and accustomed to sharing a space, separate crates are generally more comfortable and safer for travel. Sharing a crate can increase stress, particularly in an unfamiliar environment.

Where can I find travel crates suited to Australian conditions?

Browse our dog crates and kennels collection for options across a range of sizes and travel styles.

Looking for more pet travel guides? Read our Best Pet Carrier Bag Australia — The Ultimate Buying Guide for a lightweight everyday alternative to hard crates.