Pet Carriers & Crates

Best Pet Carriers & Crates in the US: How to Choose, Where to Buy, and Top Picks from Walmart, Cerqular & More

Why the right pet carrier or crate matters

Choosing the right carrier or crate is more than a convenience — it’s about safety, comfort, and peace of mind for both you and your pet. A well-designed carrier keeps your cat, dog, rabbit, or small animal secure during travel, vet visits, or daily outings. Think of a carrier as your pet’s portable den: the best ones offer protection, breathability, and a familiar place your companion can relax in. Whether you're navigating a crowded parking lot, boarding a flight, or arranging a cozy corner in the living room, the right crate turns potential stress into calm.

Stores to consider: Walmart and Cerqular plus US retailers that carry similar options

If you’re shopping for carriers and crates, Walmart and Cerqular are shown in the data as notable sources. Walmart offers a wide range — from wooden furniture-style crates and rolling metal cages to soft-sided travel carriers and folding indoor crates. Cerqular has decorative options like Evening Blue Grand and Golden Galaxy Petite that appeal to pet owners looking for style paired with function. Other US retailers to check include Petco, Chewy, PetSmart, Target, Tractor Supply, and Amazon, each carrying overlapping and unique options like airline-approved hard crates, folding soft crates, and furniture-friendly designs.

Types of carriers and crates: what works best for which pet

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. The main types you’ll encounter are soft-sided carriers, hard plastic airline crates, metal wire crates, wooden furniture crates, rolling carts, and small-animal transparent totes. Soft-sided carriers are great for car trips and short outings with cats or small dogs, while hard plastic crates are often required for air travel. Metal wire crates offer visibility and ventilation for crate-trained dogs, and furniture-style wooden crates double as end tables when not in use — perfect for owners who want style and function. For rabbits, guinea pigs, and hamsters, look for carriers with secure ventilation and chew-resistant materials.

Soft-sided carriers

Soft carriers are lightweight and often have zippered mesh panels for airflow. They’re perfect for cats and small dogs under 20 lb, and many pack flat for storage. If you’re walking through the airport or hopping into a rideshare, these carriers are easy to tote and comfortable for short trips.

Hard plastic and airline-approved crates

For airline travel, most carriers must be hard-sided and meet specific size and ventilation standards. These crates are more rigid and protect your pet from bumps and temperature shifts. They often use secure latches and provide room for a water dish. Even if you’re not flying, a hard crate can be a long-lasting travel investment.

Metal wire crates and folding options

Wire crates provide excellent airflow and visibility and often fold flat for storage. They suit crate-trained dogs in homes and are available in sizes that can handle small breeds up to large breeds ("medium" to "extra-large"). A rolling wire crate, like the Yaheetech model noted for its 43.5 x 28.5 x 35-inch footprint, adds mobility when you need to move pets through vet clinics or outdoor markets.

Furniture-style crates

If you want functionality that blends into a living room, consider furniture-style crates. These wooden units can measure around 72.5 inches wide for large models and often feature sliding doors, drawers, and shelves. They’re a smart choice when you want a pet hub that doubles as an end table or bench.

Top picks and standout features from Walmart’s selection

Walmart selection includes a variety of formats and price points. Notable items include wooden hutches and furniture crates that suit rabbits and mid-size dogs, rolling metal crates with wheels and removable pans for easy cleaning, soft three-door folding crates with included bedding and carrying bags, and compact shoulder tote carriers for small animals and hamsters. Key features to look for at Walmart are build quality, removable bedding for washing, multi-door access for convenience, and included warranties that indicate manufacturer confidence.

Pefilos wooden rabbit hutch

For rabbit owners, wooden hutches like the Pefilos 71-inch model often come with a waterproof roof and adjustable internal features. These designs keep outdoor buns dry and comfortable, and the wood aesthetic fits a backyard or porch setting well.

Nartru furniture-style dog crate

For a living-room-friendly option, furniture-style crates such as the Nartru 72.5-inch unit provide sliding doors, storage drawers, and shelf space, making it a multipurpose piece for pet containment and home decor.

Cerqular: decorative choices for style-conscious pet owners

Cerqular appears with items like Evening Blue Grand and Golden Galaxy Petite, which suggest a focus on color and design. These options are aimed at pet owners who prioritize aesthetics — think carriers and carrier accessories that coordinate with home decor. If you want a crate that doubles as an accent piece, Cerqular-style designs can be appealing.

What to measure before buying a carrier or crate

Measuring your pet is critical. For dogs and cats, measure length from nose to the base of tail and add 4 to 6 inches so your pet can lie comfortably. Measure height from paw to top of head and add 2 to 3 inches. For small animals like rabbits and guinea pigs, make sure there’s enough room to turn around and stretch fully. If you plan to move the crate in cars, measure the available space — for example, a medium wire crate might be 36 inches long and fit in many SUVs, while a large furniture-style crate could be over 72 inches and better suited for a home setting.

Example size guidelines

As a rule of thumb: small carriers are about 16–18 inches long and suitable for pets under 10–12 lb; medium carriers run roughly 20–24 inches for pets up to 25–30 lb; large crates are 28–36 inches for dogs up to 70–90 lb; extra-large crates reach 42–48 inches for giant breeds. Always compare manufacturer size charts and your pet’s measurements before purchasing.

Safety and comfort: features to prioritize

Safety features should be non-negotiable. Look for sturdy locks, secure latching doors, stable construction that won’t tip, and proper ventilation. For comfort, prioritize padded floors or included beds — many crates like the Elitefield three-door folding soft crate come with fleece bedding and a carrying bag for portability and indoor use. Removable, washable liners and machine-washable beds make maintenance simpler.

Securing crates in vehicles

When traveling by car, secure the crate with the seatbelt or an anchor system. A crate that shifts can injure your pet or distractedly impact driving. For soft carriers, place them on a flat seat or in the footwell and strap them when possible. Wire crates are often easiest to anchor in cargo areas, while furniture-style units need their own stable location at home.

Air travel and official regulations

If you’re flying, check your airline’s carrier requirements well before departure. Most airlines require hard-sided crates with proper ventilation, secure bolts, and space for a water dish. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has standards many airlines follow, so expect to provide a kennel where the pet can stand and turn comfortably. Smaller pets that fly in the cabin must fit under the seat in an airline-approved carrier — typical in-cabin soft carrier dimensions are roughly 18–19 inches long on the base, but always verify with the airline.

Cleaning and maintenance tips

Keeping a carrier or crate clean protects your pet from bacteria and keeps the space inviting. Use pet-safe cleaners and avoid ammonia-based products that irritate noses. For wooden units, wipe spills quickly and treat wood periodically to resist moisture. For metal and plastic crates, remove bedding, rinse the basin, and disinfect the tray. Replace bedding if it shows wear or absorbs strong odors. For small-animal transparent totes and hamster carriers, check ventilation holes and seals to prevent chew damage and maintain airflow.

Training and acclimating your pet to a carrier

Introduce the carrier in a low-pressure way: leave it open in a common area with a treat or familiar toy inside. Feed your pet near or inside the carrier at mealtimes, and gradually increase time spent inside with the door closed for short periods. For dogs, practice short car rides in the crate, building up to longer trips. For anxious cats, pheromone sprays and soft bedding can help make the carrier feel like a safe den. Patience and positive reinforcement turn the crate into a comfort zone rather than a place of stress.

Budgeting and warranties

Prices for carriers and crates vary widely. Soft carriers and small totes can be inexpensive, while designer furniture-style crates or heavy-duty airline kennels cost more. Check for warranties — a two-year warranty on an indoor/outdoor soft crate, for instance, shows the manufacturer stands behind the product. Balance cost with features like reinforced stitching, heavy-gauge metal, or hardwood construction when investing in a long-term crate.

Accessories that add value

Don’t overlook accessories: removable water bowls, travel harnesses, divider panels for growing puppies, and fleece inserts can make a carrier more usable. Rolling carts and one-click pet trolleys are useful for bigger shoppers who need to move pets through busy streets or markets. Weatherproof roofs on outdoor hutches, like those on some wooden rabbit designs, add protection from rain and sun.

Where to buy: comparing stores and their strengths

Walmart shines in variety and value, offering everything from economy soft carriers to large furniture-style crates. Cerqular is more niche for design-focused pieces. Petco and PetSmart are strong on in-person guidance and mid-range to premium brands, while Chewy is known for fast shipping and an extensive selection, particularly for hard-to-find models. Tractor Supply is a go-to for rugged, outdoor-ready crates, and Target offers stylish and affordable picks. Amazon provides wide brand selection and user reviews that can help with decision-making.

Summary: pick the carrier that matches lifestyle and pet needs

Your choice should depend on your pet’s size and behavior, travel plans, and home layout. A compact shoulder tote is great if you’re a city dweller with a small cat, while a furniture-style crate suits a suburban home wanting a tidy, decorative solution. If air travel is on the horizon, invest in an airline-approved hard crate. When in doubt, measure your pet, read customer reviews, and prioritize safety and comfort over looks alone — but remember, you can get both.

Conclusion

Finding the right pet carrier or crate is a balance of practicality, safety, and style. With retailers like Walmart offering broad selections and Cerqular supplying design-forward choices, you can match a carrier to your pet’s needs and your home aesthetic. Measure carefully, prioritize ventilation and secure latches, and take time to acclimate your pet. Whether you need a compact shoulder tote for quick outings, a rolling metal crate for mobility, or a wooden furniture crate that doubles as an accent piece, there’s a solution that keeps your pet safe and comfortable — and makes life easier for you.