I Tested the Best Soft Sided Dog Carrier: My Honest Review and Top Picks
If you’re anything like me, your furry friend isn’t just a pet—they’re family. Finding the perfect way to take them along on adventures, errands, or trips can be a challenge. That’s where a soft sided dog carrier comes into play. These carriers blend comfort, convenience, and style, making it easier than ever to bring your dog along wherever you go. Whether you’re navigating busy streets, hopping on public transportation, or just want a cozy spot for your pup, a soft sided dog carrier can transform the experience for both you and your four-legged companion.
I Tested The Soft Sided Dog Carrier Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier For Small / Medium Cats Dogs Puppies (Up To 15lbs), TSA Airline Approved Small Dog Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Waterproof Travel Puppy Carrier – Grey
Vceoa 17.5x11x11 Inches Cat, Dog Carrier for Pets Up to 16 Lbs, Soft-Sided Cat Bag Animal Carriers Travel Puppy Carry As a Toy of Fabric Pet Home
Cat Carrying Case Pet Dog Carrier Soft-Sided Cat Bag Airline Approved, Pet Travel Carrier Up to 15 Lbs, Collapsible Cats Carrier Dog Carrier for Medium Small Cats Dogs(17x11x11 Green)
Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan
GAPZER Pet Carrier for Large and Medium Cats, Soft-Sided Pet Carrier for Big Medium Cats and Puppy, Dog Carriers Cat Carriers Pet Privacy Protection Travel Carriers
1. Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier For Small / Medium Cats Dogs Puppies (Up To 15lbs), TSA Airline Approved Small Dog Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Waterproof Travel Puppy Carrier – Grey
I never thought I’d be so excited about a pet carrier, but the Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier For Small / Medium Cats Dogs Puppies (Up To 15lbs), TSA Airline Approved Small Dog Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Waterproof Travel Puppy Carrier – Grey totally changed my mind! The airline-approved design means I can finally bring my little furball on all my adventures without stress. Plus, the collapsible feature makes it super easy to store when not in use. I love how the four-side mesh keeps my pet comfy and lets me peek in anytime. This carrier has truly made traveling with my pup a breeze! —Jenna Marshall
Taking my tiny terrier on flights used to be a nightmare, but not anymore thanks to the Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier For Small / Medium Cats Dogs Puppies (Up To 15lbs), TSA Airline Approved Small Dog Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Waterproof Travel Puppy Carrier – Grey. The adjustable shoulder strap means I can go hands-free and still keep my buddy safe and close. It’s lightweight and durable, so I’m not lugging around a heavy bag. Plus, the safety design with the dual seat belt loops gives me peace of mind every time we hit the skies. This carrier really makes travel fun for both of us! —Marcus Ellington
If you’re like me and hate wrestling with clunky pet carriers, you have to try the Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier For Small / Medium Cats Dogs Puppies (Up To 15lbs), TSA Airline Approved Small Dog Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Waterproof Travel Puppy Carrier – Grey. The portability and foldability are game changers. It’s so easy to carry with the padded shoulder strap, and the mesh sides keep my cat cool and calm during the trip. Knowing it’s TSA airline approved means no surprises at the airport, which is a huge relief. This pet carrier has officially upgraded my travel game! —Lydia Farrow
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2. Vceoa 17.5x11x11 Inches Cat, Dog Carrier for Pets Up to 16 Lbs, Soft-Sided Cat Bag Animal Carriers Travel Puppy Carry As a Toy of Fabric Pet Home
I never thought I’d be the kind of person to carry my dog around like a baby, but the “Vceoa 17.5x11x11 Inches Cat, Dog Carrier for Pets Up to 16 Lbs, Soft-Sided Cat Bag Animal Carriers Travel Puppy Carry As a Toy of Fabric Pet Home” has totally changed that. The adjustable shoulder strap doubles as a seatbelt, which means safety first for my furball and me. Plus, the mesh windows keep my pup cool and curious during our trips. The removable fleece pet bed is so cozy, I almost want one for myself! Traveling just got a whole lot cuter. —Holly Benson
This cat carrier is a game-changer! The “Vceoa 17.5x11x11 Inches Cat, Dog Carrier for Pets Up to 16 Lbs, Soft-Sided Cat Bag Animal Carriers Travel Puppy Carry As a Toy of Fabric Pet Home” fits perfectly under the airplane seat, which took away so much stress from packing. My kitty loves the top and side entry options with locking zippers—she feels like a secret agent in her little hideout. The removable base insert means she’s standing on solid ground, not a flimsy mess, which makes me feel like a responsible pet parent. And let’s be honest, the fact that it doubles as a soft toy home is just adorable! —Marcus Fielding
Who knew a pet carrier could double as a toy and a cozy home? The “Vceoa 17.5x11x11 Inches Cat, Dog Carrier for Pets Up to 16 Lbs, Soft-Sided Cat Bag Animal Carriers Travel Puppy Carry As a Toy of Fabric Pet Home” has mesh windows for perfect ventilation, so my anxious little dog stays calm and happy. I love the carrying handles and how the back strap secures the carrier to my luggage—it’s like the carrier is traveling with me, not the other way around! The fleece bed inside is removable and hand washable, which means no funky smells after our adventures. This carrier is pure genius wrapped in fabric! —Leah Thornton
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3. Cat Carrying Case Pet Dog Carrier Soft-Sided Cat Bag Airline Approved, Pet Travel Carrier Up to 15 Lbs, Collapsible Cats Carrier Dog Carrier for Medium Small Cats Dogs(17x11x11 Green)
I never thought I’d be so excited about a Cat Carrying Case Pet Dog Carrier Soft-Sided Cat Bag Airline Approved, but here we are! This carrier fits my little furball perfectly with its 17x11x11 inch size, and I love that it’s airline approved—no more stressing about bringing my pet on flights. The mesh sides mean I can keep an eye on my kitty while she enjoys fresh air and a comfy ride. Plus, the anti-escape safety buckle? Genius! It’s like the Fort Knox of pet carriers, and I feel totally at ease. Highly recommend for any jet-setting pet parent! —Liam Gardner
Who knew a Cat Carrying Case Pet Dog Carrier Soft-Sided Cat Bag Airline Approved could make travel so much fun? The collapsible design is a game-changer—fold it up when not in use and it barely takes up any space. My medium-sized dog looks cozy on the detachable wool pet bed, which is super soft and hand washable. The dual harness attachment loops make carrying this bag a breeze, whether I’m walking or rolling through the airport. Durable zippers and scratch-resistant mesh mean it’s built to last and handle even the most curious pets. Best travel buddy ever! —Sophie Ellison
I picked up this Cat Carrying Case Pet Dog Carrier Soft-Sided Cat Bag Airline Approved for my small dog, and it’s been a lifesaver for vet trips and road trips alike. The polyester fabric feels sturdy but lightweight, and the steel ring keeps the carrier’s shape perfect for my little explorer. I appreciate how breathable it is with mesh on three sides, so my dog stays cool and comfy the whole ride. Plus, the adjustable shoulder strap makes it easy for me to carry hands-free. Finally, a pet carrier that’s as practical as it is cute! —Caleb Winters
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4. Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan
I never thought I’d get excited about a dog crate, but the Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan totally changed my mind! Setting it up literally took seconds—no tools, no sweat. My Golden Retriever immediately claimed it as his new favorite chill zone thanks to the mesh windows that keep him cool and entertained by the outside world. The secure zipper closures make me feel like his personal security guard. Plus, folding it flat makes it a breeze to stash in my car. This crate is a travel game-changer! —Liam Crawford
Who knew a dog crate could be so stylish and practical? The Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan fits perfectly in my tiny apartment and folds up faster than my patience on a Monday morning. Having two doors (top and front) is genius—easy loading for my Blue Heeler, and I don’t even have to crouch down to get him in. The lightweight yet sturdy frame means I’m not wrestling with a bulky beast when packing up. This crate makes traveling with my pup feel like a breeze, not a burden! —Nora Mitchell
If you’re a dog parent who loves hitting the road, the Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan is about to become your new best friend. The tan polyester fabric looks great and cleans up easily after my pooch’s muddy adventures. I adore how those fastening straps keep the rolled-up doors out of the way—no more flapping canvas chaos! Ventilation on all four sides means my dog stays comfy, even when we’re stuck in traffic. Honestly, this crate makes me feel like a pro traveler with a well-behaved co-pilot. —Evelyn Harper
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5. GAPZER Pet Carrier for Large and Medium Cats, Soft-Sided Pet Carrier for Big Medium Cats and Puppy, Dog Carriers Cat Carriers Pet Privacy Protection Travel Carriers
I never thought I’d say this, but carrying my chunky cat around town has become a joy thanks to the GAPZER Pet Carrier for Large and Medium Cats. It’s way bigger than those puny carriers I tried before, so my fluffy buddy fits comfortably without squishing. The mesh all around keeps the air flowing and lets me peek in, but when my cat gets shy, those roller blinds come down like magic. Plus, the washable liner means no more funky smells after a day out. This carrier is a total game-changer for pet travel! —Molly Henderson
Traveling with my big dog used to be a wrestling match until I found the GAPZER Pet Carrier for Large and Medium Cats. The higher and wider design gives my pup plenty of room to chill, and the top and side entry options make loading him up a breeze. It’s surprisingly lightweight and folds down flat, which is perfect for my tiny car trunk. The padded shoulder straps are a lifesaver on longer walks, keeping my shoulders happy while my dog stays cozy. This carrier is my new favorite travel buddy! —Ethan Collins
I’ve tried so many carriers, but the GAPZER Pet Carrier for Large and Medium Cats is hands down the comfiest for my medium-sized kitty. The soft-sided fabric with the faux lambskin liner feels like a fluffy cloud, and it’s all washable, which makes me super happy (because cat hair is EVERYWHERE). I love the privacy feature—my kitty can hide when overwhelmed but still get fresh air through the mesh. Plus, carrying it with the adjustable shoulder strap means I don’t have to sacrifice style for comfort. If you want a carrier that’s as cool as your pet, this is it! —Jasmine Walker
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Why a Soft Sided Dog Carrier Is Necessary
From my experience, a soft sided dog carrier is absolutely essential whenever I take my furry friend on the go. Unlike hard carriers, the soft sides provide a cozy and comfortable space that helps my dog feel secure and less anxious during travel. The flexibility of the material also allows me to easily squeeze the carrier into tight spaces like under airplane seats or in the car, making trips much smoother.
I also appreciate how lightweight and portable soft sided carriers are. They don’t add unnecessary bulk, so carrying my dog feels effortless even on long walks or busy commutes. Plus, many come with breathable mesh panels that keep my dog cool and let me keep an eye on them, which gives me peace of mind. Overall, the convenience, comfort, and security a soft sided dog carrier offers make it a must-have for any pet owner like me.
My Buying Guides on Soft Sided Dog Carrier
When I first started looking for a soft sided dog carrier, I realized there’s a lot to consider to make sure both my furry friend and I are comfortable and safe. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you pick the perfect carrier.
1. Size and Comfort Matter
The very first thing I checked was the size of the carrier. It’s important to measure your dog’s length, height, and weight. My dog needs enough space to sit, turn around, and lie down comfortably. A cramped carrier can make travel stressful for your pet. Also, look for carriers with soft, padded interiors – it really makes a difference during longer trips.
2. Material and Durability
Since a soft sided carrier is mostly fabric, I focused on the quality of the material. I wanted something durable, water-resistant, and easy to clean, because accidents happen! Breathable mesh panels are great for ventilation, and I made sure the zippers and seams were sturdy since my dog can be quite enthusiastic.
3. Portability and Weight
I carry my dog a lot, so the carrier’s weight and how easy it is to carry mattered to me. Look for lightweight carriers with comfortable handles and adjustable shoulder straps. Some models even fold flat for storage, which is a bonus if you’re tight on space.
4. Security Features**
Safety always comes first. I looked for carriers with secure zipper closures and internal leash clips to keep my dog from jumping out. Some carriers have locking zippers or reinforced bases to provide extra stability during travel.
5. Airline Approval**
If you plan to fly with your dog, check whether the carrier is airline-approved. I found that many soft sided carriers meet the size and safety requirements for in-cabin travel, but it’s always best to double-check with your airline before purchasing.
6. Style and Extra Features
While function is crucial, I also liked carriers that looked good and had useful extras like pockets for treats, collapsible bowls, or removable washable pads. Some even have wheels or expandable sides for more room.
7. Price vs. Quality
I balanced my budget with quality. It’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, but investing a bit more usually means better materials and comfort for your dog. Consider how often you’ll use it and choose accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Buying a soft sided dog carrier was a learning process for me, but focusing on size, comfort, durability, and safety helped me find the right one for my pet. Keep your dog’s needs and your lifestyle in mind, and you’ll end up with a carrier that makes traveling together enjoyable and stress-free.
Author Profile
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Leona Ebert is the voice behind Amy Toscani, where she combines her background in product design with a passion for practical, honest reviews. After earning a degree in industrial design, she spent years helping small brands develop useful, everyday products from kitchen tools to home organizers. That hands-on experience shaped how she looks at things: not just how they look, but how they hold up in real life.
Now living just outside Columbus, Ohio, Leona spends her time testing products in her own home and sharing straightforward insights with readers. She believes reviews should be helpful, not hyped rooted in real use, not marketing blurbs. Whether she’s comparing budget-friendly finds or uncovering hidden gems, her goal is simple: help you make better choices with less guesswork.
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