Travelling with your dog in the car is one of life’s great joys — until something goes wrong. An unsecured dog in a vehicle can distract the driver, injure themselves in sudden braking, or become a dangerous projectile in a collision. A proper dog car crate isn’t just a convenience: under the Highway Code, you’re legally required to restrain your dog while driving, and a sturdy crate is one of the safest ways to do it.
But not all car crates are created equal. Some are flimsily constructed wire boxes, others are crash-tested aluminium engineering marvels — and the price difference between the two is enormous. We’ve reviewed seven of the best dog car crates available in the UK right now, from budget-friendly boot solutions to premium safety-certified models, so you can find the right fit for your dog and your car.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best For | Price Range | Rating |
| MIMsafe Variocage | Ultimate safety, large breeds | £350–£600 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 4Pets PRO Crash-Tested Crate | TÜV-certified families | £280–£500 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Thule Allax | Style + safety, SUVs & estates | £300–£550 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ferplast Atlas Car Carrier | Mid-range, hatchback travellers | £70–£130 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| PetWorld Hatchback Crate | Budget-friendly, smaller boots | £60–£100 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ellie-Bo Folding Travel Crate | Occasional trips, budget buyers | £35–£60 | ⭐⭐⭐½ |
| MidWest Ovation Car Crate | Versatile home-and-car use | £80–£160 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Our Top Picks
1. MIMsafe Variocage
Best for: Maximum safety, frequent travellers, large and giant breeds
If you travel regularly with your dog and safety is your absolute priority, the MIMsafe Variocage is the crate other manufacturers measure themselves against. Engineered and manufactured in Sweden, it’s the only dog car crate on the market to have passed front, rear, and roll-over crash tests — the same tests applied to child car seats. It holds certifications from Sweden’s SP Technical Research Institute and meets ISO 27955, ECE R-17, and ECE R-44 standards.
The construction is genuinely impressive: aluminium bars, fibreglass-reinforced plastic connectors, and an IPS (Intelligent Protection System) back wall that absorbs impact energy. The double-dock locking system prevents the crate from opening during a collision. It fits securely in the boot of most estates and SUVs, and the range covers dogs from spaniel-size up to giant breeds like Great Danes and St Bernards. Setup is straightforward, and the crate stays put without any permanent modification to your vehicle.
The Variocage won’t win any awards for aesthetics, and the price is significant — but then, so is your dog’s life. For working dog owners, gundogs, or anyone putting serious miles in with their pet, this is the benchmark.
What we like: – Only car crate to pass front, rear, and roll-over crash tests – Covers a huge size range including giant breeds – Secure double-dock locking system – Durable, long-lasting aluminium and fibreglass construction
Worth knowing: – Significant upfront cost compared to alternatives – Larger models are heavy to lift in and out – Designed primarily for estate cars and SUVs; less suited to hatchbacks
Specifications: – Sizes available: Multiple sizes (Mini, Small, Medium, Large, Maxi, Maxi Double) – Weight limit: Varies by size; handles most breeds including giants – Material: Aluminium bars, fibreglass-reinforced plastic, steel base – Certifications: ISO 27955, ECE R-17, ECE R-44
2. 4Pets PRO Crash-Tested Dog Crate
Best for: Families wanting certified safety with a polished finish
The 4Pets PRO series is the only range to hold an official TÜV SÜD certification — that’s the prestigious German technical safety organisation — making it one of the most independently verified options on the market. Available in 11 sizes from XS to XXL, there’s a fit for virtually every breed and boot size. The construction combines anodised aluminium with fibreglass-reinforced plastic and scratch-resistant laminated fibreboard interior panels.
What sets the PRO range apart is the built-in Crash-Bag system — a cushioning mechanism within the rear panel that activates in an impact, providing an additional buffer for your dog during emergency braking or a collision. The crate has a clean, Scandinavian-influenced design that looks at home in an estate or large SUV, and installation uses a two-point securing system that doesn’t require drilling or permanent fixings.
Available through specialist UK retailers including Travelling With Pets, and on Amazon UK. 4Pets also offers a fitting guide to help match the right size to your specific car model — a genuinely useful resource that other brands don’t always provide.
What we like: – Official TÜV SÜD certification — the most rigorous independent safety test – Crash-Bag impact absorption system – 11 sizes to suit every breed – Clean, premium appearance
Worth knowing: – Premium price point – Heavier than wire alternatives – Mainly sold through specialist retailers rather than mainstream pet shops
Specifications: – Sizes available: XS, S, S+, M, M+, L, L+, XL, XL+, XXL, XXL+ – Material: Anodised aluminium, fibreglass-reinforced plastic, laminated fibreboard – Certifications: TÜV SÜD certified crash-tested
3. Thule Allax Dog Crate
Best for: Design-conscious owners, SUVs and larger estates
Thule is best known for roof boxes and bike carriers, and their Allax dog crate brings that same design discipline to the boot of your car. Launched in 2024, the Allax is crash-tested and available in ten sizes, covering everything from small terriers to large Labradors and similar breeds. Unlike some bulkier aluminium crates, the Allax has a sleek, modern profile that integrates neatly into the boot without looking like an afterthought.
The Allax is notable for leaving usable boot space alongside the crate, making it practical for owners who also need to carry luggage, kit bags, or a second dog. It secures using Thule’s own fixing system and requires no permanent modifications. Ventilation is generous on all four sides, which matters on warm days. The interior finish is smooth, without exposed metal edges that could snag or scratch.
Available through Amazon UK and Thule’s own UK site, where you can use their online vehicle-matching tool to confirm compatibility with your specific model and trim.
What we like: – Crash-tested to high standards – Stylish, minimalist design suits modern cars well – Boot-space-efficient layout – Excellent ventilation on all sides
Worth knowing: – More limited size range than Variocage or 4Pets PRO at the very large end – Premium pricing – Less widely stocked in physical UK stores
Specifications: – Sizes available: 10 sizes (check Thule’s website for vehicle compatibility) – Material: Steel and polypropylene construction – Certifications: Crash-tested
4. Ferplast Atlas Car Dog Carrier
Best for: Mid-range buyers, smaller dogs and cats, hatchback travellers
The Ferplast Atlas Car range is one of the most popular mid-range options in the UK and a reliable choice for dogs up to around 30kg. Available from Pets at Home in both medium and maxi sizes, it’s a practical plastic carrier with metal door grilles and a clever attachment system that hooks over the back-seat headrests, making it suitable for smaller cars that lack enough boot depth for a full aluminium crate.
The double opening — a front door and a top-access option — makes loading and unloading much easier, especially for dogs who are still getting used to car travel. Ventilation comes from the mesh grille door and side openings. The plastic construction is robust enough for regular use, and the latches are solid.
The Ferplast Atlas Car won’t protect your dog in the same way as a crash-tested aluminium crate, but for shorter journeys, day trips, and dogs who are calm travellers, it’s a sensible and reasonably priced option. It also doubles as a home crate if needed, adding to its value.
What we like: – Available at Pets at Home — easy to buy and return if needed – Dual opening (front door and top access) for easy loading – Suitable for both car boot and back-seat use – Good value for regular-but-not-extreme use
Worth knowing: – Not crash-tested — offers containment rather than crash protection – Plastic construction won’t withstand very powerful or determined escape artists – Not suitable for giant breeds
Specifications: – Sizes available: Medium (up to ~18kg), Maxi (up to ~30kg) – Material: ABS plastic, metal grille door – Suitable for: Small to medium dogs and cats
5. PetWorld Hatchback Folding Dog Crate
Best for: Hatchback owners, budget buyers, occasional travellers
UK-based PetWorld specialises in car-specific crates designed to fit neatly into the boots of British and European hatchbacks — a practical consideration that many international brands overlook. The sloped rear design follows the natural roofline of hatchback boots, making use of space that would otherwise be wasted with a rectangular crate.
The folding mechanism is genuinely convenient: the crate collapses flat and stores out of the way when not in use, unlike heavier fixed crates. Build quality is solid for the price, using a mix of coated steel tubing and mesh panels, and the two-door design (one at the rear, one on the side) works well in tighter boot spaces. Setup and removal take a few minutes once you’ve got the hang of it.
This is a pragmatic, UK-aware choice. It won’t match the safety performance of crash-tested aluminium crates, but for owners who make occasional journeys and don’t want a permanent fixture in the boot, it’s a smart buy.
What we like: – Designed specifically for UK/European hatchback boot shapes – Folds flat for storage when not in use – Two-door access for awkward boot shapes – Good value for the build quality offered
Worth knowing: – Not crash-tested or independently certified – Best suited to calm dogs — a determined escape artist may stress the seams – Less padding or cushioning than some plastic carriers
Specifications: – Sizes available: Various (check PetWorld’s website for vehicle-specific fit guides) – Material: Coated steel frame, mesh panels – Suitable for: Small to large dogs depending on size chosen
6. Ellie-Bo Folding Soft-Frame Travel Crate
Best for: Budget buyers, puppies, gentle dogs, occasional trips
Ellie-Bo is a well-known UK pet brand that offers a range of affordable crates, and their folding travel crates are one of the most accessible ways to keep a dog safely contained in the car without spending significantly. The soft-frame construction uses a lightweight Oxford fabric cover over a collapsible frame — it sets up in seconds and folds flat into its own carry bag.
These crates suit well-behaved, calm dogs who are happy to settle during travel. They’re popular for puppies, as the soft sides offer a cosy den-like feel that can help anxious young dogs settle. For adult dogs with any tendency to chew, scratch, or push at the sides, the soft-frame design is not appropriate — it won’t hold up to sustained pressure.
Available on Amazon UK and various pet retailers, typically well under £50 for the most popular sizes. If you’re looking for a budget car crate for occasional use with a settled dog, this is a decent, practical option.
What we like: – Very affordable — excellent entry-level option – Folds flat into a carry bag in seconds – Cosy interior suits anxious dogs and puppies – Lightweight and easy to move between vehicles
Worth knowing: – Soft fabric is not suitable for dogs who chew or scratch – Offers containment only — no crash protection – Not durable enough for daily heavy use
Specifications: – Sizes available: Various (S to XL) – Material: Oxford fabric, steel frame – Suitable for: Calm adult dogs, puppies under supervised travel
7. MidWest Ovation Double Door Crate
Best for: Versatile home-and-car use, medium to large breeds
The MidWest Ovation is primarily a home crate, but it earns a place on this list for owners who want a single crate that does both jobs. The double-door design — a standard front door and an extra-wide side door that opens upward and lies flat on top — makes loading from the boot-side significantly easier than front-entry-only designs. The wire construction folds flat for transport.
Build quality is excellent for the price. The coated wire is sturdy and resists bending better than many cheaper wire crates. For family dogs who use a crate at home and occasionally travel, having one unit that works in both contexts is genuinely convenient and saves money. It fits neatly into the boots of larger estates and people carriers.
Available on Amazon UK, typically in the £80–£160 range depending on size.
What we like: – Genuinely versatile — works as home crate and car crate – Excellent build quality for the price – Unique side-opening door design for easy loading – Folds flat for transport
Worth knowing: – Not crash-tested — wire construction offers containment, not crash protection – Heavier than soft crates; lighter than aluminium options – Best suited to calm dogs who are already crate-trained
Specifications: – Sizes available: Intermediate (76cm), Large (91cm), XL (107cm), XXL (122cm) – Material: Coated wire steel – Suitable for: Medium to extra-large breeds
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Dog Car Crate
What to Look For
Safety certification is the most important factor many buyers overlook. A crate that merely contains your dog in normal driving conditions may still fail catastrophically in an accident. If you frequently drive on motorways or cover long distances, a crash-tested crate from MIMsafe, 4Pets, or Thule is a worthwhile investment. For shorter, local trips with a calm dog, a quality non-certified crate is a reasonable compromise.
Fit matters enormously — both the fit of the crate in your specific boot, and the fit of your dog inside the crate. A dog should be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Too large and they may be thrown around in transit; too small and the journey becomes stressful and unkind.
Ease of use will affect whether you actually use the crate consistently. Look for crates that load quickly, secure reliably, and are easy to clean after muddy walks or travel sickness.
Types of Dog Car Crate
Crash-tested aluminium crates are the premium category, built to withstand collisions and roll-overs. They’re designed for permanent fitting in the boot of estate cars and SUVs, and typically stay in the vehicle. Best for frequent travellers and working dog owners.
Plastic carriers (like the Ferplast Atlas) offer solid containment and work well in smaller cars or for dogs under 30kg. They’re not crash-tested but provide more structure than soft options, and suit dogs who travel regularly on shorter journeys.
Wire folding crates are versatile and affordable. They fold flat for storage and work for home and car use. Build quality varies significantly — buy from reputable brands like MidWest rather than unbranded imports.
Soft folding crates are the lightest and cheapest option, suitable only for calm, trained dogs on shorter trips. Not appropriate for puppies with chewing tendencies or dogs who aren’t already comfortable in a crate.
Hatchback-specific crates (like PetWorld’s range) use clever sloped designs to maximise space in smaller UK cars. A practical consideration if you drive a hatchback rather than an estate or SUV.
Size Guide
Dog size reference: – Small (under 10kg): Chihuahuas, Yorkies, Miniature Dachshunds — use XS/S crates – Medium (10–25kg): Spaniels, Beagles, Border Collies — use M/L crates – Large (25–40kg): Labradors, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds — use L/XL crates – Extra Large (40kg+): Great Danes, Irish Wolfhounds, Mastiffs — use XL/XXL; MIMsafe Variocage or 4Pets PRO recommended
Always measure your dog from nose to tail base (length) and floor to top of head (height) before purchasing. Add 10–15cm to each measurement for comfortable clearance.
How Much Should You Spend?
Budget (under £60): Soft-frame crates and simple wire options. Fine for occasional use with calm, settled dogs. Don’t rely on these for high-speed motorway travel.
Mid-range (£60–£160): Plastic carriers, hatchback-specific designs, and quality wire crates. Suitable for regular use, with better build quality and easier loading. Still not crash-tested.
Premium (£280–£600+): Crash-tested aluminium crates from MIMsafe, 4Pets PRO, or Thule. A serious long-term investment for frequent travellers, working dog owners, or anyone who drives long distances with their dog. These crates last many years and the cost per use becomes very reasonable over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it illegal to not have a dog in a crate in the car?
The Highway Code (Rule 57) states that dogs must be suitably restrained so they cannot distract the driver or be injured in an emergency stop. Failure to do so can result in a fine of up to £5,000 and may invalidate your car insurance. A crate, dog harness attached to a seatbelt, or dog guard are all accepted methods of restraint.
Do I need a crash-tested crate?
Not legally — but a crash-tested crate offers your dog significantly more protection in a collision. Standard crates are designed to contain your dog during normal driving; crash-tested models are engineered to protect them in an accident. If you frequently use motorways or drive at higher speeds, the additional cost is worth considering.
What size crate does my dog need for the car?
Your dog should be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Measure your dog’s length (nose to tail base) and height (floor to top of head while standing) and choose a crate at least 10cm longer and taller than those measurements. A crate that’s far too large allows excessive movement during travel, which can cause anxiety or minor injuries from being thrown around.
Can I use a regular home crate in the car?
You can, but it’s not ideal. Home crates aren’t designed to stay secure in the event of sudden braking or a collision. If you want to use a crate for both home and car, look for models specifically marketed as dual-use (like the MidWest Ovation) and ensure you can secure it in the boot with a bungee cord or cargo net.
How do I get my dog used to a car crate?
Introduce the crate at home first, leaving it open with comfortable bedding inside so your dog can explore it voluntarily. Feed meals near or inside the crate, and build up to closing the door briefly before gradually progressing to short car trips. Never force your dog into the crate. Dogs who have a positive association with their crate generally travel more calmly.
Are aluminium car crates too hot in summer?
Direct sunlight can heat up any metal surface, but quality aluminium crates are well-ventilated and dissipate heat more efficiently than enclosed plastic. Ensure your vehicle has adequate ventilation, use sunshades on windows, and never leave your dog unattended in a parked car regardless of the crate material.
Final Verdict
For most dog owners making regular journeys, the MIMsafe Variocage remains the gold standard — its comprehensive crash-test credentials and robust construction make it the safest choice money can buy. If you’re looking for equivalent safety with a TÜV SÜD certification and a slightly more polished finish, the 4Pets PRO is a superb alternative.
For those on a tighter budget who make shorter trips, the Ferplast Atlas Car — readily available from Pets at Home — is a reliable mid-range option that won’t break the bank, while the PetWorld Hatchback Crate is worth a look specifically for UK hatchback owners who need a practical, space-efficient solution. Whatever you choose, keep your dog secure — every journey is safer for it.
