For years, the image of a dog crate conjured up thoughts of heavy-duty, aluminum metal cages. While these traditional crates are undeniably effective for initial crate training and serve as reliable travel dog crates, my personal journey with dog sports quickly revealed a need for something more adaptable. As I started attending my mom’s dog dock diving classes with Remi, her Labrador, and my own dog agility training with Annie, I realized that having a portable crating solution was essential, and it didn’t have to be the cumbersome metal kind. Comparing a traditional [heavy duty dog crate xxl](https://dogcarestory.com/heavy-duty-dog-crate-xxl/) to modern options highlights the shift in convenience for active dog owners.
Some still prefer metal dog crates for events due to personal preference, and ultimately, you know your dog best. However, once I discovered the ease of transporting soft-sided dog crates, I knew I needed one. After thorough research and considering various options, including my mom’s Noz2Noz soft crate, I confidently concluded that the EliteField soft dog crate stands out as one of the best soft Collapsible Dog Crates on the market. If you’re searching for a soft-sided dog crate, whether for a large or small companion, this review offers insights into sizing, included accessories, and practical storage and traveling tips to help you decide if the EliteField collapsible dog crate is the right fit for your needs.
Why a Collapsible Soft Dog Crate? Convenience Meets Functionality
The primary advantage of a collapsible soft dog crate over a rigid metal one is its unparalleled portability and ease of setup. Unlike their heavier counterparts, soft crates are designed for quick assembly and disassembly, making them ideal for busy pet parents who are frequently on the move. They are significantly lighter, often foldable, and take up less space when stored. This makes them perfect companions for various activities, from dog training classes and agility trials to dock diving events and road trips. They offer a comfortable, secure space for your dog to rest between activities, providing a sense of familiarity and reducing stress in new environments. While metal crates excel in durability for chewers or intense crate training, a soft-sided option is a game-changer for those prioritizing convenience and mobility.
Owner posing with an EliteField collapsible soft-sided dog crate outdoors
EliteField Collapsible Dog Crate: Key Features and Benefits
My initial search for a soft crate began with the Noz2Noz brand, as I was familiar with my mom’s model. However, I was disappointed by the limited color options. A seemingly small detail like wanting a different color spurred me to explore what else was available, leading me to the EliteField collapsible dog crate. To my delight, not only did EliteField offer an impressive array of 20 colors, but it also boasted a wider range of features compared to the Noz2Noz soft crate, making it a truly appealing choice.
Finding the Perfect Fit: EliteField Collapsible Dog Crate Sizing Guide
One of the standout reasons for choosing the EliteField collapsible dog crate is its excellent selection of sizing options. While its size offerings are similar to many other soft-sided dog crates, including the Noz2Noz model, the breadth of choices ensures a good fit for almost any dog. For those considering [small dog cages for sale](https://dogcarestory.com/small-dog-cages-for-sale/) or a [large soft sided dog crate](https://dogcarestory.com/large-soft-sided-dog-crate/), EliteField has you covered.
The EliteField soft dog crate is available in these sizes:
- 20″L X 14″W X 14″ H
- 24″L X 18″W X 21″H
- 30″L X 21″W X 24″H
- 36″L X 24″W X 28″H
- 42″L X 28″W X 32″H
I personally own the largest size, 42″L X 28″W X 32″H. When choosing a size, measure your dog’s height and length. The crate should be spacious enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so large that they feel insecure or have too much space to potentially soil one end. My two dogs, Annie and Diesel, both fit well, although Diesel, my “little moose,” is at the upper limit for this size. For reference, Annie (a Pointer/Aussie/Cattle Dog Mix) is 28″L (neck to tail) and 30″H (standing), while Diesel (a Mastiff/Hound/Staffy/Great Dane Mix) is 31″L (neck to tail) and 32″H (standing and sitting). Labrador owners might find it helpful to know that my mom uses the same size in her Noz2Noz soft crate for her Labrador, Remi.
Large black dog comfortably resting inside an EliteField soft-sided dog crate
What’s Included? EliteField Collapsible Crate Accessories
Beyond the extensive sizing and color choices, the EliteField soft dog crate truly distinguishes itself with the thoughtful inclusion of helpful accessories that are often missing from competitor models like the Noz2Noz soft crate. Even though this large soft-sided dog crate was only a few dollars more, the added value is significant. The EliteField collapsible dog crate comes with:
- Washable Dog Crate Pad: A soft, comfortable pad that’s easy to clean, ensuring your dog’s comfort and maintaining hygiene.
- Attached Storage Bags: Conveniently located on the top and back of the crate, these bags are a fantastic feature. They allow you to easily store essentials like treats,
[leashes for dogs near me](https://dogcarestory.com/leashes-for-dogs-near-me/), collars, portable water bowls, and other small items you’ll need on the go, keeping everything organized and accessible. - Storage Bag with Strap Attachment: This separate carry bag makes transporting the folded crate incredibly easy and comfortable, whether you’re heading to training or a competition.
Smaller dog peeking out of an EliteField soft-sided dog crate
Design and Durability: Key Structural Elements
The EliteField collapsible soft-sided dog crate is designed with both functionality and durability in mind. Its construction features:
- Three Mesh Doors: Located on the top, front, and side, these doors provide quick access to your pet from various angles and, critically, ensure full ventilation. This is especially important for dogs in warmer climates, like Florida where I live, preventing overheating.
- Velcro Straps: Two door openings are equipped with Velcro straps to securely hold the rolled-up mesh doors in place, keeping them neatly out of the way.
- Durable Foundation: The crate is built on a strong steel tube frame, providing a stable and robust structure that can withstand regular use.
- Durable 600D Fabric: The overall cover is made from high-quality 600D fabric, known for its resilience and ability to endure the rigors of travel and outdoor events.
EliteField soft-sided dog crate with storage bags and a washable pad visible
Traveling with Your Collapsible Dog Crate: Tips and Vehicle Fit
One of the most practical aspects of a collapsible dog crate is its adaptability for vehicle travel. My experience shows a clear difference in how the EliteField soft dog crate fits into various SUVs. When my mom and I took Remi to her first dock diving competition, her Noz2Noz crate (the same size as my EliteField) fit perfectly sideways in the back of her 2022 Subaru Forester, alongside her wagon and other gear. This confirmed that the EliteField would also be an easy fit in her vehicle.
However, my 2017 Nissan Rogue presents a different challenge. The cargo area isn’t as wide as the Subaru’s, so I can’t lay the crate down flat. My options are to either place it upright, as shown in the photos, or to position it upright sideways behind my front seats on the floor. The flexibility of a [soft dog crate for car](https://dogcarestory.com/soft-dog-crate-for-car/) ensures that regardless of your vehicle type or how you prefer to travel with your dogs (in crates, on the backseat, etc.), there are multiple ways to secure this soft dog crate to meet your specific needs. Demonstrating how it fits into two different SUVs highlights its versatility for various pet parents.
EliteField collapsible dog crate stored upright in the back of a Nissan Rogue SUV
EliteField vs. Noz2Noz: A Quick Comparison
While both the EliteField and Noz2Noz soft crates offer similar sizing, the EliteField consistently provides more features and better overall value. The inclusion of a washable crate pad, integrated storage bags, and a dedicated carry bag for only a slight price difference makes the EliteField collapsible dog crate a superior investment. For any pet parent seeking a convenient, durable, and feature-rich portable crating solution, the EliteField stands out as the optimal choice.
In conclusion, my experience with the EliteField soft dog crate has been overwhelmingly positive. The shift from traditional metal crates to this modern, collapsible solution has significantly enhanced the convenience of attending dog events and training classes. With its diverse sizing, thoughtful accessories, robust design, and excellent portability, the EliteField collapsible dog crate truly represents the best soft crate for dogs. It’s a worthy investment that will undoubtedly accompany us to many more agility classes, dock diving events, and various adventures to come. Discover more about essential dog products and travel accessories by exploring other posts on Dog Care Story!
