Best Sloping Dog Crates and Cages for your Car Boot
So you travel and you usually have your dog and best friend with you? We do too and we know a lot about travelling short and long distances with a pet dog in the car.
In this best of review article, we have gone through a few of the best car boot dog crates which are foldable, packable, moveable, strong and can keep your little one safe in your boot, back seat or even home when you need it.
We have a rescued cocker spaniel cross and he loves his crate at night and was crate trained as he grew up, this has helped with how he is in a car too. He can either be on the back seat in his smaller crate (this is when our car is filled with things for our adventures) or in the boot in a larger sloping dog crate. We regularly go on long journeys, some being more than 9-hour drives, especially when we go to the highlands of Scotland in the UK. Without a dog crate, we couldn’t utilise some space in our boot or back seat to pack things in and also keep him happy and safe.
Dog crates for car boots come in so many different shapes and sizes, some are single crates, some are double, and some are big enough to get two dogs in. All of them are made of some form of alloy, some are steel and others aluminium. All though are strong and capable of keeping any size or strength dog in the boot. We highly recommend looking into these, especially if your dog struggled with travelling long distances or you need space elsewhere in your car. When we are travelling with ours, we can even place items that aren’t too heavy on top of his crate and either side of it in the boot of our car. If he didn’t travel in this, he would take up more space in the back seat of the car or would rumble around and maybe chew some of the things we pack near him in the boot.
We have listed 4 different dog crates and cages, 3 of them sloping which is great for boot use and if you have a larger dog. Each has different sizes, we have reviewed mostly medium-sized dog crates for up to border collies but if you have a larger dog you’ll just have to choose bigger cages on amazon UK.
The Ellie Bo Deluxe Sloping Dog Cage is our number one travel dog crate, it’s big enough for a medium-sized dog like a collie, they do other sizes too but it slopes on both the front and back so will fit great in your boot. It’s sturdy, comes with a metal tray and soft fleeced dog bed, can be packed up and carried between vehicles or your home and car and even used in your home too. We’re very happy with its strength, our dog doesn’t even bother to chew it which he did briefly with a fabric crate so you know he’s safe inside.
We have also reviewed an Ellie Bo square dog crate, a single sloping dog crate and a zoomundo.
The Single-sided sloping dog crate is great if you have a huge boot like a 4×4 or estate car. This has been designed so that it sits to one side, left or right of your boot and is perfect if you have one dog or two smaller dogs. The sloping walls are at the front and back so that it sits right behind the rear seats nicely and in front of your boot door. Unlike others which are usually wider at the front, this is longer than it is wider, which makes no fuss for your dog, it’s still the same volume, it’s just been cleverly designed to be like this.
We have included an Ellie Bo rectangular dog crate for use in your boot, back seat or home. We have two so thought it would be good to include this as well. We use the smaller one on the back seat of our car and it fits snuggly between the rear seat and front seat which means we can still use space in our boot and to the side of the dog on our back seat. It is slightly smaller but he can turn around in it and it’s perfect for smaller journeys. We often use this when we’re visiting family for a week or so and have dive gear, hiking gear, cameras and presents to bring with us. We can pack more in and he’s still good in his smaller crate.
Finally, the Zoomundo, a fundamentally different crate to the others we have reviewed, the cage design is made of different material and looks different too. We were quite happy with testing ours and the great thing about Zoomundo is that they do a bigger range of different dog crates. If you are after a crate to fit in two dogs with a separator, Zoomundo cater for this too.
Best Dog Crates and Cages for car boot
Review of Ellie Bo Sloping Dog Crate for Car Boot
This is a review of the Ellie Bo Deluxe sloping dog crate which fits car boots and can also be used on the back seat and in your home.
This is a rather interesting sloping dog crate by Ellie Bo, it’s the deluxe version and is the 30″ size crate. This crate is slanted on one side which is perfect for your boot, the measurements are 76 x 54 x 54 cm so double-check the size of your boot to make sure this will fit and that when your boot is closed, it doesn’t hit the dog crate.
What is so great about this crate then? Well, it folds up which is awesome, without this feature it would be hard to move it from car to car or from car to home or pack it away when not using it. You’d really struggle to get something like this in and out of your house and into your car boot because of its large size.
It has 4mm thick non-chew bars, so no matter what breed or size of a dog, it won’t be able to get out of the cage, unlike a fabric crate. What dogs will fit into this size sloping dog cage then?
Dog Breeds That Will Fit In This Sloping Crate
Basset Hound, Beagle, Border Collie, Miniature Bull Terrier, Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Bulldog, Dachshund, English Springer Spaniel, Field Spaniel, Finnish Lapphund, Finnish Spitz, Giant German Spitz, Hungarian Puli, Irish Terrier, Pinscher, Shar Pei, Sky Terrier, Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, Standard Schnauzer, Welsh Springer Spaniel and Whippet should all fit quite comfortably.
We have a cocker spaniel cross with a lab/pointer, so he is slightly larger than a cocker spaniel and he fits in with plenty of space spare, you should be fine with anything up to a border collie which is a medium-sized dog or fit in two smaller dogs like a terrier or dachshund.
Above you can see that both sides of the crate are sloping, which is perfect as when we slid it into the back of our car, our rear seats are sloped back, which we didn’t realise before we bought this, so we can push the back of the crate in line with the cars rear seats.
Another thing to check is that the door opening will open and not hit the bottom of your car boots door seal. We have read some reviews before reviewing ourselves and a few cars had this problem, we were ok with our Fiat Panda.
This sloping cage is easy to assemble, it will come folded up, just pull the front and back up and the rest will follow. You then have to clip itself in on two sides to secure it in place, once done it will be a solid crate for the boot of your car.
It comes with a thin dog bed, which our dog soon chewed to bits as he loves really fluffy things, we added two flat pillows for longer journeys and he is more than happy in it and can turn around, sit up and lie down in comfort. A larger dog like a collie may struggle to turn around and won’t be able to stand up but it’s still a viable crate for this dog on smaller journeys.
Pros
- Folding and sloping car boot dog crate, great shape for boots and folds away when not in use
- Great price
- Can be used in your boot and home
- Really strong, will keep any dog secure with its 4mm thick non-chew bars
- Easy to use
Cons
- The bottom tray, which is a separate thing, does move around on bumpy roads if your dog isn’t heavy
Verdict
Our favourite – a very versatile sloping dog crate which should be perfect for the boot of your car and keep your dog secure, just check measurements carefully by checking the depth of your car. Make sure it has at least 54cm deep, we reckon 60cm would be better. You need a height of 54cm, we recommend 60cm again for height and that you have at least 30cm at the top of your boot so the top of the crate fits in.
Where to buy
Ellie-Bo Deluxe Sloping Puppy Cage Medium 30 inch Black Folding Dog Crate...
Review of Ellie-Bo Dog Travel Crate
This is a review of the Large 36″ Ellie-Bo Dog Travel Crate
Made of steel with a black painted coating the crate is incredibly strong. Weighing 13Kgs and coming with a carry handle makes it easy to move around and stow away.
The crate comes flat packed and is easy to assemble simply pull up one side of the crate to open it out then you will be able to pull up the front and back sides of the crate from within the mainframe. You can then clip the sides together. This does take a bit of strength as you have to manipulate the steel clamps over as pictured below to secure the sides into place.
Once assembled you will find two doors to the crate one at the front and one to the side of the crate. Each door has two heavy-duty latches to be pulled across to secure the doors closed. .
We have used the Ellie-Bo crate many times as a den for our dog at home. We have also used it in the car and with its box shape, it fits well in the boot or back seat of your car. Over time the clean jet black paint does come away. There is not much that can be done about this as being a crate for a dog it needs to be robust in nature and the odd paint blemish does not distract away from the fact is an excellent quality crate.
From the teething puppy who has gnawed its way through a canvas crate to a safe and stable environment for an elderly dog, you can not get more tough and robust that this crate. With a nice crate cover, this crate once back at home can be easily converted into a spacious den for your favourite canine.
Pros
- Very strong
- Longlasting
- Choice of crate sizes
- Packs away easily
- 2 doors to enter and exit
- Great for use at home too
Cons
- The black paint does come off over time
- Careful not to trap fingers when assembling
Verdict
One of the strongest dog travel crates available, providing a safe haven with two entry points and good ventilation. This is a great purchase for a dog owner from the day you bring your dog home as it will provide you with multiple uses, not just car travel.
Ellie-Bo Deluxe Dog Puppy Cage 2 Door Folding Crate with Faux Sheepskin...
Single Sloping Dog Crate for Car Boot Review
This is a review of a 2 doored dog cage with sloping walls to help it fit better in the boot of a car.
Do you have a large boot and you want to put this on one side to keep your furry friend safe? This sloping dog crate is shaped so that it sits with the largest length being the depth, so especially good for 4×4 and estate boots, you can put it in and still have space to the other side of your boot.
Like the Ellie Bo we have also checked out, this will fit a medium-sized dog up to roughly 20kg, our cocker cross fits in with space to move.
This is a great cage that comes with a plastic bottom, unlike metal in most of the others. What is really good is that when you fold it up you can carry it with a carry handle that is fitted to the top. Unlike the others, this is a godsend when moving it around as the metal bars can really hurt your fingers when carrying it from your house to the car or vice versa.
Pros
- sloping sides to fit in the boot of your car
- has a carry handle for ease of moving about when folded up
- because of its slim design, you can fit this into one side of your boot, as long as its wide and deep enough
- strong and sturdy metal casing
Verdict
This is an excellent product compared to a fabric dog crate, plenty of ventilation because of the way the crate is designed with its metal bars rather than full coverage.
You can fold it up and store it away if need be or put it flat into your boot if a dog doesn’t need to be put inside it. It comes with 2 doors, which is a bit weird as once it’s in your boot there is only one way it can come out, just make sure to check that your boot lip isn’t too high.
PawHut Metal Dog Car Crate Folding Pet Cage
We believe there is always balance to be struck between safety and comfort of our dogs when it comes to travelling – they are not particularly fond of getting locked up (as ex-shelter dogs do quite a lot) so we always try to make sure they don’t suffer more than they need to.
When we got the PawHut crate, the initial setup was a breeze – it’s designed to be foldable, which meant we didn’t need any tools to assemble it. The process was quick, simple, and we were ready to use it within minutes. The good thing is that when it’s not in use, we fold it down, and it takes up very little space in the car boot (yes, we leave it there having had enough of “damn, gotta go back upstairs to get the bloody crate!”). This feature is a real game changer for us.
Size and durability were two major factors for us, and the PawHut Metal Dog Car Crate did not disappoint. With dimensions of 77 x 47 x 55 cm, it provided ample space for our small terrier, Swift, to move around comfortably. The robust metal construction holds up well, even with Swift’s occasional excited jumps and bumps during car rides.
We really liked the removable tray feature. This made cleaning so much easier, especially after long trips (pro tip, it is similar to having a portable loo in a campervan – don’t use it if you can avoid it by taking a break). Few times we didn’t manage in time but any mess could be quickly removed. We also found the tray perfect for placing a small blanket to make Swift’s journey more comfortable.
Safety-wise, we were very pleased. The crate features a secure locking mechanism, which kept Swift safe and secure inside. We have had our share of escape artists in the past, and we felt confident that Swift was secure in the PawHut crate. The crate design also allowed Swift to have a full view of his surroundings, which seemed to alleviate his anxiety a bit during travel.
What we loved most about the PawHut Metal Dog Car Crate was the balance it struck between practicality and comfort. It didn’t compromise on safety, was easy to use and clean, and Coco seemed to adapt to it quickly and comfortably.
PawHut Metal Dog Car Crate Folding Pet Cage Transport Box Carrier for...
Zoomundo Aluminium Dog Transporter Box Review
This is a review of the Zoomundo Aluminium Dog Transporter Box
Made of aluminium the Zoomundo dog transporter box is a sturdy yet lightweight travel crate at 13.5 kg. There is large grating to the sides of the crate, a small area to the back and across the whole door of the crate providing excellent ventilation.
The covered top as well as the vents provide a space for your dog that will make sure they do not overheat. You will however need to have an estate or van rather than a small hatchback to be able to use it. Measuring at a height of 72 cm, a width of 65 cm and a length of 91 cm, it only comes in one size option and would suit transporting medium to large breeds of dog.
The design is said to use a “trapezoidal” base frame, in plain English meaning there is a sloping front to the crate. Allowing it fit more easily into boot spaces that are big enough. The Zoomundo transporter box is very easy to assemble and easy to clean. What you do need to make sure is that you have good enough bedding or even a non-slip mat and the transporter as it is will be very slippy for your dog to travel in.
The transporter is missing the mounting ability to strap down the crate into place, however when the crate is assembled it is strong and sturdy, the door also bolts into place securely keeping your dog safe.
Pros
- Well vented to prevent
- Easy to clean
- Simple to assemble and dissemble
- Helps provide sun protection
- Lightweight for a crate
Cons
- No hoops, hooks or mounting points to secure it in the car
- Slippy floor for car travel
- Only comes in one size option
Verdict
Strong and sturdy, easy to clean and assemble dog crate for medium to large breed dogs.
ZOOMUNDO ALUMINIUM DOG PET CAR TRANSPORT BOX 1-DOOR CARGO CAGE CARRIER PREMIUM
FAQs
What is a dog crate used for?
A dog crate is primarily used for safe transportation of dogs during travel. It can also serve as a secure den or resting area at home, assist in house-training, and help manage separation anxiety in dogs.
What size crate should I get for my dog?
The crate size depends on the size of your dog. It should be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. However, it shouldn’t be so large that your dog can use one end as a bathroom and the other end as a sleeping area.
How long can a dog stay in a crate?
The duration depends on the dog’s age, temperament, and training. Puppies should not stay in a crate for more than 3-4 hours at a time, while adult dogs can handle up to 8 hours if necessary. However, it’s essential to provide regular breaks for bathroom use and exercise.
Is it cruel to crate a dog?
No, when used properly, a crate can provide a safe, cozy den for a dog. However, a crate should not be used as a place of punishment or for extended periods without breaks for bathroom use, food, water, and social interaction.
Can a dog sleep in a crate overnight?
Yes, a dog can sleep in a crate overnight. Many dogs find the crate to be a secure and comfortable place to sleep. However, puppies or older dogs who can’t control their bladders may need a break during the night.
How can I get my dog to like the crate?
Make the crate a positive place. You can place treats, toys, and comfortable bedding in the crate. Start by leaving the crate door open and let your dog explore it at their own pace. Once they’re comfortable, you can start closing the door for short periods.
Is a wire or plastic crate better for my dog?
This depends on your dog and your specific needs. Wire crates offer better ventilation and are often foldable for easy transport, while plastic crates can provide more privacy and are generally more preferred for air travel.
Should I cover my dog’s crate?
Some dogs may feel more secure with a covered crate, which mimics a den-like environment. However, make sure that covering the crate doesn’t cause it to overheat. Monitor your dog to ensure they’re comfortable.
How can I make my dog’s crate more comfortable?
Adding soft bedding, a favourite toy, or an item of clothing with your scent can make the crate feel more comfortable and familiar. You could also place the crate in a quiet area of your home where your dog can still see and hear you.
Should I put water in my dog’s crate?
If your dog is spending more than a couple of hours in the crate, it’s a good idea to provide water. However, to avoid spills, you might want to use a clip-on dish or a special water bottle that attaches to the crate.
Can I use a crate for puppy training?
Yes, crates can be highly effective for house training puppies. They take advantage of the natural instinct of dogs not to soil their sleeping area, helping them learn to control their bladder and bowel movements.
Should I put my dog’s crate in my bedroom?
It’s up to personal preference. Having the crate in your bedroom can help a new dog or puppy adjust, as they’ll be reassured by your presence. However, if you want to discourage dependence, you might place the crate in a different room.
My dog is whining in the crate. What should I do?
Ensure that your dog’s needs are met – they might need to go outside or be hungry or thirsty. If their needs are met and they continue whining, it’s important to ignore the behavior so as not to reinforce it (yes, this might be hard). Reward quiet behavior with positive reinforcement – praise or treats work wonders.
What’s the right way to introduce my dog to a new crate?
Begin by placing the crate in a common area with the door open. Encourage your dog to explore it by placing treats or toys inside. Once they are comfortable entering the crate, you can begin closing the door for short periods of time, gradually increasing as they get used to it.
Can two dogs share a crate?
It’s generally not recommended for two dogs to share a crate. Even if the dogs get along well, a crate should be a safe, individual space for each dog to rest and retreat. Each dog should have their own crate that suits their size. In short, we don’t recommend this at all.
What should I do if my dog has an accident in the crate?
Clean the area thoroughly to remove any odors that might encourage your dog to soil the same spot again. Most crates have a plastic removable tray – wash it with a dishwasher liquid and hot water. If accidents in the crate are frequent, consider consulting a vet to rule out any potential health issues and review your crate-training process as your pup might be stressed or scared.
What’s the best material for bedding in a dog crate?
A soft, washable, chew-resistant mat or blanket is typically a good choice. The best material depends on your dog’s habits and preferences. Some dogs prefer cooler surfaces, while others like softer, warmer bedding.
How can I help my dog get used to car travel in the crate?
Begin with short, calm drives and gradually increase the duration as your dog becomes more comfortable. Make sure to reward your dog for calm behavior in the car to create a positive association.
Should I feed my dog before travelling in the crate?
It’s generally recommended to feed your dog a few hours before the trip to prevent car sickness. Always have fresh water available for your dog, though, especially on long journeys.
How can I secure the crate in the car?
Ensure the crate is properly secured to prevent it from sliding or tipping during the trip. This can usually be done with the car’s seat belts or other pet-specific securing devices.
What if my dog gets car sick while in the crate?
If your dog is prone to car sickness, consult your vet before the trip. They may recommend medication to help. Make sure the car is well-ventilated and consider taking regular breaks for fresh air.
How often should I take breaks on a long car journey with my dog in the crate?
For long journeys, it’s recommended to take a break every 2-3 hours. This will allow your dog to stretch, relieve themselves, and get some fresh air.
Can I leave my dog in the crate in the car while I run errands?
It’s not recommended to leave your dog unattended in the car, even in a crate for more than few minutes. Cars can quickly heat up or cool down to dangerous temperatures, and your dog may become anxious, stressed, dehydrated, overheated or too cold and get harmed or die as a result (yes, it needs to be said). Tesla cars have a special “Dog mode” to help the dog to be comfortable but it all depends.
Is it okay for my dog to sleep in the crate during car travel?
Yes, if your dog is comfortable and used to the crate, it can be a good place for them to rest and sleep during car travel.
What should I pack for my dog for long car trips in the crate?
Bring a familiar blanket or toy, enough food and water for the trip, a leash for breaks, and any necessary medications. Don’t forget bags for waste, and consider bringing an extra towel or cleaning supplies for any mess.
My dog is anxious during car travel, even in the crate. What can I do?
Try to make the car and crate as comfortable as possible with familiar items. You can also consult your vet about potential anxiety-reducing products or medications.
