If you’ll be embarking on a trip with your four-legged companion or you simply want a convenient way to take them around town when running errands, a soft-sided dog carrier may be just the ticket.

Soft-sided dog carriers come in a variety of sizes, designs and colors, so there’s one to fit every dog and their owner. Some, like the Sherpa Pet Carrier, even have wheels that allow you to conveniently pull your dog along behind you.

What to know before you buy a soft-sided dog carrier

Size

When choosing a dog carrier, you need to match it to the size of your dog. It should have enough space that your furry friend can stand up, sit and lay down with a few inches to spare. It should also be large enough that they can freely turn around. That said, make sure that you don’t buy a carrier that’s significantly larger than your dog needs, as this will be cumbersome for you to carry.

Weight

Since you’ll be carrying the dog carrier around on your shoulder or in your hands, consider its weight when making your purchase. Some carriers weigh as little as 2 pounds, while some wheeled options can weigh as much as 10.

Style

Unlike hard dog crates, soft-sided dog carriers are available in a variety of fashionable colors and patterns. This means you can easily find one to match your outfit if you want to make a style statement when traveling with your dog.

Soft-sided dog carrier features

Ventilation panels

It’s important that a dog carrier has plenty of ventilation to keep your dog cool. On soft-sided carriers, there are mesh panels for this, and the more the better.

Privacy flaps

While airflow matters, especially when the weather is warm, there are times when your dog may need a bit of peace. Privacy flaps allow you to cover up the mesh ventilation panels when your dog gets overstimulated or it’s time for them to take a nap.

Expandable sides

If you want the ability to periodically provide your dog with some extra space to spread out but still keep them safely contained, look for a dog carrier that has expandable side panels. These can be securely zippered closed when it’s time to pick up the carrier and take your dog on the go.

Removable liner

You need to periodically clean your dog carrier to keep it hygienic and odor-free. A removable liner makes this more convenient, as you can simply take it out and toss it in the washing machine. For comfort, look for a carrier with a removable liner made from a plush and durable material like fleece.

Leash attachment point

Sometimes you may want to allow your dog to stick their head out while traveling. Carriers with leash attachment points make this safer since they eliminate the chances of your dog jumping out to chase something. You may need to purchase a small tether for this, or one may be included with the carrier.

Carrying strap and handles

Most soft-sided dog carriers have fabric handles and an adjustable shoulder strap. Both of these should be sturdy and have a reasonable amount of padding. If you purchase a carrier with wheels, the shoulder strap may double as a pull strap or it may have a separate telescoping handle.

Wheels

If you don’t want to have to carry the dog carrier everywhere you go, opt for a model with wheels. These are heavier but can be more convenient, especially when walking long distances on smooth indoor surfaces, such as when navigating an airport.

Soft-sided dog carrier cost

Most soft-sided dog carriers cost $20-$100. Some designer options can cost several hundred.

Soft-sided dog carrier FAQ

Can I use a soft-sided dog carrier for airplane travel?

A. You can use a soft-sided carrier for air travel as long as it’s airline approved and your pet will be traveling in the cabin with you. They should never be used when a pet is traveling in the luggage area.

How can I make my dog comfortable with their carrier?

A. There are a few things you can do to help your dog get comfortable with their new carrier. Never force them inside of it, but rather leave it open on the floor of your home with a nice cushion and a treat or two inside. This gives them time to investigate it on their own. Get in the habit of giving them a treat, bone or toy to chew on inside the carrier until they become comfortable spending time inside of it with the door open, and then eventually with the door closed. The next step is to move onto short trips or walks around the block in the carrier and slowly increase the amount of time they spend inside it.

Which soft-sided dog carrier should I get?

Best of the best soft-sided dog carrier

Sherpa Ultimate on Wheels Pet Carrier: available at Amazon, Chewy and Petsmart

Our take: This wheeled carrier is the perfect choice for anyone who often travels with their pet and doesn’t want to deal with physically carrying them the whole time.

What we like: It has large mesh panels for airflow, but there are also privacy flaps you can drop when it’s time for your pooch to take a nap. There’s a leash attachment point so you can let your dog ride with their head out without worry of them escaping.

What we dislike: It’s heavier than most others of the same size, which can make it a hassle during those times you choose to carry it.

Best bang for your buck soft-sided dog carrier

Jet Sitter Luxury Soft Sided Pet Carrier: available at Amazon

Our take: While it may have some flaws, the Jet Sitter Luxury is ideal for owners who want to give their pets some extra space to spread out.

What we like: It has expandable side panels, plenty of mesh and plush fleece padding, so it offers just the right balance of airflow and comfort.

What we dislike: It doesn’t hold its structure well and has a tendency to sag.

Honorable mention soft-sided dog carrier

Kurgo Soft-Sided Wander Dog Carrier: available at Amazon and Chewy

Our take: The Kurgo Wander is an airline-approved carrier with a sturdy build that allows it to stand up to regular travel with pets up to 18 pounds.

What we like: It has seat belt loops to keep your pet safe while riding in a car, and it’s backed by a lifetime warranty.

What we dislike: It could use more padding.

Brett Dvoretz is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.

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