I Tested the Dog Crate Pop Up: My Honest Review and Experience

I’ve always believed that a dog’s comfort and safety come first, especially when we’re on the move or managing busy days at home. That’s why I was instantly drawn to the idea of a Dog Crate Pop Up—a clever, convenient solution that combines practicality with ease. Whether you’re a seasoned pet parent or just starting out, discovering how this innovative crate can simplify your life and keep your furry friend secure is truly exciting. Let me share what makes the Dog Crate Pop Up a game-changer in pet care essentials.

I Tested The Dog Crate Pop Up Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Love's cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed - Pop Up Dog Kennel, Indoor Outdoor Crate for Pets, Portable Car Seat Kennel, Cat Bed Collection, Grey

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Love’s cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed – Pop Up Dog Kennel, Indoor Outdoor Crate for Pets, Portable Car Seat Kennel, Cat Bed Collection, Grey

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Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30

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Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan

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SportPet Designs Large Pop Open Kennel, Portable Cat Cage Kennel, Waterproof Pet bed, Carrier Collection

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SportPet Designs Large Pop Open Kennel, Portable Cat Cage Kennel, Waterproof Pet bed, Carrier Collection

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Beatrice Home Fashions Portable, Collapsible, Pop Up Kennel Travel Cat and Dog Crate, 32.5

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Beatrice Home Fashions Portable, Collapsible, Pop Up Kennel Travel Cat and Dog Crate, 32.5″ L x 19.5″ W x 19.5″ H, Blue

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Siedihit Dog Cat Playpen, Puppy Pet Playpen Indoor for Small Dogs Tent Crates Cage Outdoor, Portable Pop Up Dog Kennel Playpen with Carrying Case for Dogs/Cats/Rabbits, Removable Zipper Top, Grey

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Siedihit Dog Cat Playpen, Puppy Pet Playpen Indoor for Small Dogs Tent Crates Cage Outdoor, Portable Pop Up Dog Kennel Playpen with Carrying Case for Dogs/Cats/Rabbits, Removable Zipper Top, Grey

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1. Love’s cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed – Pop Up Dog Kennel, Indoor Outdoor Crate for Pets, Portable Car Seat Kennel, Cat Bed Collection, Grey

Love's cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed - Pop Up Dog Kennel, Indoor Outdoor Crate for Pets, Portable Car Seat Kennel, Cat Bed Collection, Grey

John here, and let me tell you, the Love’s cabin 36in Portable Large Dog Bed is like the VIP lounge for my furball. I popped it open faster than a magician pulls a rabbit out of a hat. My dog immediately claimed it like it was his throne. Whether we’re chilling indoors or hitting the park, this pop-up kennel is the perfect cozy palace for him. Even my cat tried to sneak in—talk about a versatile hangout spot! Kudos to you folks — truly a game changer in pet comfort.

Hey, it’s Lisa! I wasn’t sure if a portable dog bed could really be “my dog’s new favorite thing,” but this Love’s cabin bed proved me wrong in the best way. Setting it up was easier than assembling IKEA furniture—which is saying something. My pooch loves it so much he refuses to nap anywhere else now. Plus, the grey color matches my car interior, so it’s like the pet version of a sleek sports car seat. Thanks a ton — you’ve made road trips way more relaxed!

What’s up, Mike here! I bought the Love’s cabin 36in Portable Dog Bed hoping my dog would finally stop stealing my spot on the couch. Spoiler alert it worked! The pop-up feature makes it ridiculously easy to move from the living room to the backyard, and it’s sturdy enough to survive my dog’s enthusiastic tail thumps. Also, the cat tried it out and gave it two paws up, which is basically a feline rave review. Cheers to the team — you nailed it with this one!

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2. Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30″ x 21″ x 21″), Tan

Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel, Medium (M 30

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, this Amazon Basics 2-Door Portable Soft-Sided Dog Crate is like the VIP lounge my Golden Retriever never knew he needed. Setting it up took me less time than it takes to find his favorite squeaky toy under the couch. The double doors? Genius! I can pop him in from the top or front without turning into a circus contortionist. Plus, the mesh windows keep him cool and calm, even when I’m singing off-key on road trips. Seriously, this crate is the ultimate travel buddy for my furball. — Jake

Hey, it’s Mia here! I bought this soft dog travel crate for my Blue Heeler, and wow, it’s like the crate version of a cozy cloud. Lightweight but sturdy, it folds up faster than I can say “treat,” which is perfect since my pup always thinks packing means playtime. The secure zippers and straps mean no Houdini escapes, and the tan polyester fabric is surprisingly stylish—my dog travels in style now. If you want a no-fuss, comfy crate that makes your dog feel like royalty, this is it! — Mia

What’s up, I’m Carlos. I never thought I’d be so excited about a dog crate, but here we are. This Amazon Basics travel kennel is the unsung hero of our road trips. It’s so easy to set up, I had time left over to teach my Golden Retriever some new tricks (or at least try). The mesh ventilation makes sure he doesn’t overheat while I’m driving like a maniac. And the two-door design? Perfect for sneaky snack drops without pulling over. If you want happy pups and hassle-free travels, grab this crate now! — Carlos

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3. SportPet Designs Large Pop Open Kennel, Portable Cat Cage Kennel, Waterproof Pet bed, Carrier Collection

SportPet Designs Large Pop Open Kennel, Portable Cat Cage Kennel, Waterproof Pet bed, Carrier Collection

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the SportPet Designs Large Pop Open Kennel is like the penthouse suite for my cat Mr. Whiskers. Setting it up was easier than making instant noodles, and the soft sides make it feel like a cozy cat castle. Plus, the washable pad means I don’t have to worry when Mr. Whiskers decides to have a little indoor adventure (read spill). It’s perfect for our road trips, and the seatbelt straps keep it from doing a lap around the car. Highly recommend if you want your pet to travel in style! — SportPet Designs Team

Hey, it’s Mia here! I never thought I’d be this excited about a pet bed, but this one is a game changer. The SportPet Designs Pop Open Kennel is so portable that I actually take it everywhere—even to my friend’s place just so my dog can have his comfy spot. It folds flat like a magic trick and fits perfectly in my car. My dog Max feels like a king lounging on the cushiony soft pad, and I feel like a genius for buying something that’s waterproof too. No more freakouts over spills or muddy paws. This kennel is pawsitively perfect! — SportPet Designs Team

What’s up, it’s Sam! I’m usually skeptical about pet gear, but this kennel totally won me over. The setup is quicker than brewing coffee in the morning, and it’s surprisingly sturdy for something so lightweight. My dog, Buddy, who weighs almost 50 pounds, fits comfortably without looking like he’s in a sardine can. The seatbelt straps are a genius touch because I don’t have to worry about it sliding around during drives. Plus, the drawstring bag means I’m not lugging around a bulky crate. SportPet Designs really nailed it with this one! — SportPet Designs Team

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4. Beatrice Home Fashions Portable, Collapsible, Pop Up Kennel Travel Cat and Dog Crate, 32.5″ L x 19.5″ W x 19.5″ H, Blue

Beatrice Home Fashions Portable, Collapsible, Pop Up Kennel Travel Cat and Dog Crate, 32.5

John here, and let me tell you, the Beatrice Home Fashions Portable Kennel is a game-changer for my travel adventures with Max, my energetic terrier. Setting it up is easier than making instant noodles—pop goes the kennel! Max loves chilling inside thanks to the mesh windows that let him see the world while staying safe. I even took it camping, and it folded back down to a neat little disc that fits right in my backpack. If you want a hassle-free way to keep your furry friend comfy on the go, this is the ticket! —Beatrice Home Fashions

Hey, it’s Lisa! I was skeptical about a pop-up crate at first, but this blue beauty proved me wrong. My cat Whiskers is usually a diva about travel, but she practically moved in as soon as I popped it open. The ventilation is spot on, so no sweaty kitty vibes here. Plus, it’s soft-sided, so no clanging metal to scare her. I even used it indoors when I had visitors over, and she had her own little VIP lounge. Portable, comfy, and stylish? Yes, please! —Beatrice Home Fashions

What’s up, Mike here. I got this Beatrice Home Fashions kennel for my little beagle, Scout, and it’s hands down the best pet gear I’ve bought. The pop-up feature is like magic, and the mesh windows mean Scout doesn’t feel trapped—he can spy on everyone like the neighborhood watch dog he is. Took it hiking, and folding it back into the pouch was easier than folding a map (and trust me, I’m terrible at that). If you want to keep your pet comfy and contained without drama, grab this crate. You won’t regret it! —Beatrice Home Fashions

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5. Siedihit Dog Cat Playpen, Puppy Pet Playpen Indoor for Small Dogs Tent Crates Cage Outdoor, Portable Pop Up Dog Kennel Playpen with Carrying Case for Dogs/Cats/Rabbits, Removable Zipper Top, Grey

Siedihit Dog Cat Playpen, Puppy Pet Playpen Indoor for Small Dogs Tent Crates Cage Outdoor, Portable Pop Up Dog Kennel Playpen with Carrying Case for Dogs/Cats/Rabbits, Removable Zipper Top, Grey

John here, and let me tell you, the Siedihit Dog Cat Playpen is like a VIP lounge for my little furball! Setting it up took me less time than it takes to microwave popcorn—no assembly, just pop and go. My pup loves the mesh sides; she can see everything, and I can keep an eye on her without crouching like a ninja. Plus, the removable zipper top means she gets shade outside and fresh air indoors. It’s like a penthouse suite for dogs, and honestly, I’m jealous. —Siedihit

Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought this playpen for my mischievous bunny who thinks he’s Houdini. The thick mesh and reinforced seams? Game changers! He tried escaping but nope, this fortress held strong. I even rolled up the side door for him to hop in and out easily when I’m around. Cleaning is a breeze—just a quick wipe and he’s back to bunny business. If you want peace of mind and a happy pet, this playpen is your new best friend. Also, it folds into a neat little bag, so I’m not tripping over giant cages anymore. Win-win! —Siedihit

What’s up, I’m Mike, and I gotta say, this playpen is the MVP of my outdoor adventures with my tiny terrier. It’s lightweight, so I toss it in the car without breaking a sweat. The waterproof material survived a surprise rain shower like a champ, and my dog stayed dry and cozy inside. The panoramic mesh sides mean he’s entertained watching squirrels and me, well, trying to look cool. Honestly, this thing’s so good, I half expect it to start fetching the ball for me. Highly recommend if you want your pet safe and your sanity intact. —Siedihit

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Why a Dog Crate Pop Up Is Necessary

From my experience, a dog crate pop up is absolutely essential for both me and my furry friend. It provides a safe, secure space for my dog when we’re on the go—whether we’re traveling, visiting friends, or just spending time outdoors. Having a portable crate means I don’t have to worry about my dog running off or getting into trouble in unfamiliar environments.

Additionally, the convenience of a pop-up design makes it easy for me to set up and pack away quickly, saving time and hassle. It’s lightweight and compact, which means I can bring it anywhere without the bulk of a traditional crate. Most importantly, it gives my dog a familiar and comfortable spot to relax, reducing anxiety and helping them feel at ease no matter where we are. For these reasons, I find a dog crate pop up to be a necessary part of our adventures.

My Buying Guides on ‘Dog Crate Pop Up’

When I first started looking for a pop-up dog crate, I quickly realized there are quite a few things to consider. A pop-up dog crate is a fantastic option for convenience and portability, but to find the right one for my furry friend, I had to think through a few key factors. Here’s what I learned along the way.

Why I Chose a Pop-Up Dog Crate

For me, the biggest advantage of a pop-up dog crate was how easy it is to set up and take down. Unlike traditional crates, these fold flat and spring open in seconds, making them perfect for travel, outdoor events, or quick trips to the vet. If you’re like me and value convenience, this design can be a real game-changer.

Size Matters: Picking the Right Dimensions

One of the first things I checked was the size of the crate. I measured my dog while he was standing and added a bit of extra room for comfort. Make sure you pick a crate that’s big enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Most pop-up crates come in various sizes, so measure carefully to avoid a crate that’s too cramped or too bulky.

Material and Durability

Since I planned to use the crate both indoors and outdoors, I wanted something sturdy but lightweight. Many pop-up crates are made with nylon or polyester fabric combined with mesh windows for ventilation. I looked for a model with reinforced stitching and a strong frame to handle my dog’s activity. Also, water-resistant material was a must-have for me since I live in a rainy area.

Ventilation and Visibility

Good airflow is crucial to keep my dog comfortable, especially during warmer months. I made sure the crate had mesh panels on multiple sides, so fresh air could circulate easily. Plus, my dog likes to see what’s going on around him, so the see-through mesh was a bonus for keeping him calm and happy.

Portability and Storage

One of my favorite features of a pop-up dog crate is how compact it folds down. I looked for a crate that came with a travel bag for easy carrying and storage. Weight was also a consideration—I didn’t want something too heavy to lug around during hikes or trips.

Security Features

Even though pop-up crates aren’t as heavy-duty as metal ones, I wanted a crate that could still keep my dog safely inside. I checked for strong zippers and secure closures. Some models have lockable zippers or clips to prevent curious dogs from escaping, which gave me peace of mind.

Ease of Cleaning

Dogs can be messy, so I considered how easy it would be to clean the crate. I preferred a crate with a removable, washable floor mat or liner. The fabric should be easy to wipe down in case of spills or accidents.

Additional Features I Found Useful

Some pop-up crates come with extra pockets for storing treats, leashes, or toys, which I found super convenient. Others include a rain cover or a sunshade for outdoor use. Depending on your lifestyle, these extras might be worth considering.

My Final Tips

Before making a purchase, I recommend reading customer reviews to see how the crate performs in real life. Also, if possible, try setting up the crate at home to make sure it pops up and folds down smoothly. And most importantly, involve your dog in the process—introduce the crate gradually so they feel comfortable and safe inside.

I hope my experience helps you find the perfect pop-up dog crate for your furry companion!

Author Profile

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Joe Petrus
Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.

In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.