The best dog transport boxes

February 15, 2024

Dog owners who travel a lot by car or like to travel by plane absolutely need a dog transport box or appropriate safety devices for their dog. This is not only sensible, but also mandatory. Since dogs are legally considered cargo, they must be accommodated safely during transport. Failure to comply can result in fines that vary from country to country.

Content: Comparison of dog transport boxes

Why do I need a dog transport box?
What makes a good dog transport box?
Our dog transport box recommendations
Conclusion

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Why do I need a dog transport box?

The advantage of a dog transport box is obvious. It prevents the dog from flying through the car in the event of an accident or even just an emergency stop, and injuring itself or others. In principle, it is a replacement for a seat belt. Although there are alternatives to the dog transport box, such as with partitions or special dog seats, only a closed box is really useful. It has several advantages. The dog always has the same place in the car - the hair and dirt from the paws stay where they should and do not spread around the car. A transport box can also be used for travelling by plane - which is mandatory. However, not all models are approved for this, which is another reason to make the right choice straight away. A closed box is also usually more comfortable for the dog than travelling "loosely" in the car, as it offers a safe and protected space.

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What makes a good dog transport box?

The size is important, especially with dog transport boxes, every centimeter can count. The box not only has to fit the dog, but also in the car. A mistake that is often made. It is therefore important to measure the dog and the car or the trunk first. Note that external dimensions are usually given and the internal dimensions differ from these. The most common dog transport boxes are made of plastic or aluminum, the latter of course being the higher quality models. For small and light animals, the plastic transport box is definitely an option, especially since they are light and can therefore be easily transported by hand. For medium to large dogs, however, we strongly recommend choosing a dog transport box made of aluminum, as these are easier to attach to the car. They are much more stable and, with high-quality workmanship, nothing can be nibbled on or rattle. The aluminum versions are usually more of a "cage" that is permeable to air and view, while the plastic boxes are often similar to a closed room. The former is the best option so that dogs can be better integrated into the social group. For anxious dogs, there are also darkened transport boxes.

Our dog transport box recommendations

Trixi dog transport box

The Trixie transport box is a solid aluminum box with a good price-performance ratio. Depending on the size, you will have to pay between €150 and €350. It is stable and easy to set up. The walls are high, but allow enough air to circulate. Nothing rattles when driving and the practical Velcro strips keep it secure in the car. The trapezoid shape fits well in the trunk and to be on the safe side, the manufacturer has listed various car models and shows which box fits. There is a plus point for the thermal blanket that is included, which fits perfectly in the transport box. The weight, however, is a minus point and should be taken into account if the box is to be used frequently for air travel.

Price: approx. 200 € - 250 €
Dimensions: 63 x 64 x 90 cm
Weight: 1kg
Material: aluminum

Schmidt dog transport box

The premium dog box comes from Schmidt , who are specialists in vehicle construction. With a proud price of almost €450, it is significantly more expensive than most of its competitors, but the quality is also correspondingly high. Refined aluminum and fiberglass-reinforced plastic corners offer enormous stability and the weather-resistant plywood panels can easily withstand wet dogs. This box is also easy to put together and its trapezoidal shape fits well in the car. We particularly like the low weight of just 14 kg - which makes it much easier to take it out of the car alone.

Price: approx. 440€
Dimensions: 93 x 65 x 68 cm
Weight: 14kg
Material: aluminum

Nobby dog transport box

At around €290 - €460, depending on the size, the Nobby dog transport box is not exactly cheap, but this aluminum box is also very high quality and justifies its price. With its trapezoidal shape, this box is also well suited for cars - but at a good 20 kg, it is not one of the lightweights. The special thing about this transport box is the lockable door that opens upwards, which can be a huge advantage in many cars. Various sizes are available.

Price: approx. 290 € - 460 €
Dimensions: 93 x 68 x 68.6 cm
Weight: 20.9 kg
Material: aluminum

Skudo 6 IATA

One of the few plastic dog transport boxes that is recommended and even accepted by most airlines for air transport is the Skudo 6 . Weight plays a big role when flying, so it is particularly light. To prevent your four-legged friend from chewing his way out, the door is made of metal, lockable and secure. Sufficient slits on the side allow fresh air to come in, but it seems more like a closed room. That is not pleasant for many dogs, and you can hardly see him either. However, at that price, compromises are acceptable, because at around €140, it still offers good value for money with its light weight and good workmanship.

Price: approx. 140€
Dimensions: 63 x 64 x 90 cm
Weight: 19.5kg
Material: plastic - metal

Trixi dog transport box (foldable)

A foldable transport box does not offer the same protection as a solid aluminum box, although, as in the case of the Trixi dog transport box a plug-in aluminum system promises more security. In addition, this transport box is not safe from dogs that like to chew. However, it is extremely light and can be folded up - which can be a great advantage. With the option of darkening it, it is suitable for anxious dogs. Thanks to two zippered entrances on the front and side, it can also be placed flexibly in the car. Ideally on the back seat, where it is secured with straps. Since it not only offers less security, but, depending on its size, is priced at the same price as high-quality aluminum transport boxes or even higher, it comes in last place.

Price: approx. 100€ - 180€
Dimensions: 60 x 45 x 50 cm
Weight: 3.35kg
Material: fabric/aluminium

Conclusion

In order to make the right choice, it is important to measure the dog and the car. Some dog transport providers give recommendations here. It is important that the box is not too small - but not too big either. For puppies and young dogs, you can bridge the growth period by padding the transport box with a few blankets and pillows. Take your time with the decision, then you will find the right transport box for your dog.

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