Last Updated on 2 years by Jenny Sovann
Traveling with your furry friend does not only help in strengthening your bond but also makes your vacation exciting. But, as much as this sounds thrilling, you need to ensure that your pet is safe and comfortable when traveling. The best dog expandable carriers are designed to promote your dog’s comfort, safety while making it easier for you to carry him. These carriers have soft sides, which often include mesh windows when extended. This ensures that your pet has great views at the same time providing proper ventilation.
Plus, thanks to the foldable and compact design, these best dog expandable carriers are approved by most airplanes. Besides long travels, these carriers’ boasts of a lightweight design, which makes them easy to carry. So you don’t have to endure those sad puppy eyes when you leave them when visiting friends or running errands. Take your fur baby wherever you go with the following best dog carriers.
Best Expandable Dog Carriers In 2023
10. X-ZONE PET Airline Approved Pet Carriers
Price: Budget-friendly
Construction: Durable Oxford Fabric
Special features: Removable fleece travel bed, expandable mesh sides, auto-lock zipper sliders and a tether.
Best for: Suitable for pet up to 15 lbs
Check Price on Amazon NowThe X-ZONE PET best dog expandable carrier is one of the most versatile models that you can find on the market. It pairs a soft-sided design and plush interior, which keeps your pets comfortable. The expandable sides fold easily to save space. This design also makes the carrier easy to hold and fits under most airplane seats. Speaking of an airplane, this carrier is approved by most airlines. Its adjustable shoulder straps and innovative design is easily secured on a car seat. Equally, this model comes with a cozy fleece pad for enhanced comfort and a zippered side pocket for storing your pet’s medicine, snacks, and treats.
Pros and Cons
- Detachable and easy to clean
- Has mesh windows that allow free air circulation
- Comes with an adjustable shoulder strap
- The straps are not padded
9. MASKEYON Airline Approved Pet Carrier
Price: Reasonably priced
Construction: Waterproof Cationic Oxford
Special features: Four breathable soft-sided Extensions, non-slip bottom protector, three entrances for easy access.
Best for: Ideal for medium-sized dogs weighing up to 20 pounds
Check Price on Amazon NowTake your fur baby along on a weekend getaway, vacation, and other outdoor activities with the MASKEYON Pet carrier. It is made from soft oxford fabric, which is water-resistant. With a pet-friendly design, your pet will not feel exhausted or stressed even after traveling for long. This best dog expandable carrier comes with a top ventilated opening and side mesh that allows for a clear view. For increased stability, this model also comes with a steel strand on the frame, which prevents deformation or sagging. Similarly, this model also comes with two side entrances for easy access, multiple pockets for organizing small accessories, and four-way expansion.
Pros and Cons
- Easy to clean
- Pet-friendly design
- Detachable and adjustable shoulder strap
- Ideal for smaller pets only
8. Smiling Paws Pets 4-Way Expandable carrier
Price: Slightly higher price tag
Construction: Tough yet soft oxford material
Special features: Expands to flat pack, airline approved pet carrier, 4-way expansion and top entry.
Best for: Accommodates medium-sized pets weighing up to 14 pounds
Check Price on Amazon NowFinally, you can enjoy the convenience of commuting with your pet wherever your adventure takes you. Equipped with all the features that you and your pet will love, this model lets you carry your pet safely and easily. It comes with four expandable sides that provide more space for your pet and easy top-load entry. Different from other models, this unit also includes an internal leash and self-locking zippers. A mesh roof is also provided to ensure proper ventilation. Some of the other useful features that come with this model include well-padded carrying straps, machine washable pad, and lightweight design. Moreover, it also features reinforced rotating metal clips for attaching the car seatbelts or luggage handles.
Pros and Cons
- Self-locking slider zipper
- Nifty side straps
- Rotating metallic clips
- Slightly tough to adjust
7. Petsfit 2 Sides Expandable Carrier
Price: Fairly priced
Construction: 600 D X 600 D Oxford cloth
Special features: Two zipper doors are easy to access, wireframe in both sides for enhanced support, soft fleece mat.
Best for: For pet up to 15 pounds
Check Price on Amazon NowIngenuity at its best, Petsfit dog carrier transforms from a folded bag into a soft-sided pet carrier in less than 20 seconds. It is made of tough oxford material with offers a secure and safe solution to transport your pet. This model extends to offer more space for your pet to relax. Equally, this model comes with a fully zippered side pocket that lets you store your pet’s treats and snacks for the road. Also, it has mesh windows that allow for clear views and improved ventilation. What more, this model also comes with a wireframe that ensures it stays upright when extended.
Pros and Cons
- Mesh ventilation for travel
- High quality and self-locking zippers
- Nice removable, washable mat
- Limited adjustment on the straps
6. Pawdle Dual Expandable Pet Carrier
Price: Affordable
Construction: Durable nylon and mesh
Special features: High quality nylon and mesh construction, dual expandable sides, meshed for easy viewing.
Best for: Ideal for medium-sized pets
Check Price on Amazon NowEnjoy the convenience that comes with this trendy, durable, and expandable pet carrier. The multipurpose design makes it a perfect choice for small to medium-sized dogs and cats. It is also soft-sided offering obvious advantages to your pets comfort. Don’t leave your pet at home just because they are recovering from surgeries. This model is super comfortable and has enough space for your pet to relax. It is also made from durable mesh and nylon materials, which are water-resistant. Moreover, this model is equipped with convenient lockable zippers, which ensures a secure and snug closure.
Pros and Cons
- Zippered Security
- Built to withstand rugged treatment
- Easily washable materials
- The top handle needs more padding
5. Mr. Peanut’s Expandable Airline Approved
Price: Budget-friendly
Construction: 600 D nylon fabric with PVC coating
Special features: Auto self locking zippers, plush faux fleece pad, zippered mesh pockets.
Best for: Ideal for pets up to 15 lbs
Check Price on Amazon NowAre you worried about the Fido jumping of your bag when on transit? Well, with Mr. Peanut’s expandable dog carrier, you don’t have to be paranoid. First, this model comes with auto self-locking zippers that ensure that your pet is secure wherever you go. Next, it features an inbuilt leash that secures your pet. In terms of construction, this model is made from sturdy oxford outer fabric a mesh. It also features a removable faux fleece pad and a sturdy base. Other notable features worth noting include plywood base for enhanced support, breathable mesh on all sides, zippered mesh storage, and well-padded shoulder straps.
Pros and Cons
- Airline compatibility
- Premium design and style
- Strong and waterproof
- Durable but not very stylish
4. Coopeter Luxury Soft-Sided Pet Carrier
Price: Fairly priced
Construction: Quality fabric, CLAW-DEFENSE MESH for ventilation
Special features: Ultra-safe and durable, wire frame for enhanced support, removable and washable fleece bed.
Best for: Perfect for small to medium-sized dog and cat
Check Price on Amazon NowLooking forward to a trip that involves many flight hours or walking? Well, smaller pets cannot keep up, especially when walking for long distances. Coming in a foldable design, packable design, this model lets you carry your pet whenever he feels tired. Additionally, thanks to the compact design, this model also a perfect choice when traveling on a plane or bus. Similarly, it is made of high-quality fabric and claw defense mesh. Different from other expandable carries, this model also comes with a wireframe, which keeps it sturdy, upright, and safe. Another handy feature we love is the removable and washable fleece bed. Furthermore, it features a support bard at the base, which keeps it in shape for years.
Pros and Cons
- Ultra-safe and durable
- Has an expandable to provide more room
- Made of high-quality materials
- Straps could need more padding
3. Siivton Airline Approved Pet Carrier
Price: Reasonably priced
Construction: Oxford and high-density EVA materials
Special features: Multiple entries with maximum air circulation, breathable mesh, unique 4-ways expansion.
Best for: Accommodated pets weighing up to 14lbs
Check Price on Amazon NowAfter all, you are carrying your best friend; therefore, you should make his travel as comfortable and enjoyable as much as possible. Bringing a perfect blend of practicality and fashion, the Siivton pet carrier offers you an ultimate solution for transporting your fur friend. A very versatile choice, this model has an expandable design, which lets your pet stretch. It also includes a soft base, which acts as a comfortable bed for your pet to relax. Plus, this model comes with four zippered openings for easy access and an inbuilt leash to prevent your pet from jumping out. In the same breath, this carrier is crafted using durable yet soft materials. A breathable mesh also provides so that your pet doesn’t feel closed in.
Pros and Cons
- Soft and comfortable
- Expandable interior space
- Super easy to carry
- Slightly lower weight capacity
2. Petpeppy Premium Airline Approved Expandable Pet Carrier
Price: Budget-friendly
Construction: Sturdy, scratch-resistant sides
Special features: Two side expansions, thick wire frame for extra support, comfortable bottom fleece base.
Best for: It is built for pets up to 14 pounds
Check Price on Amazon NowWith a compact, low profile design, the PetPeppy pet carrier fits under the front cabin seat. This makes it one of the airlines approved pet carriage that lets you bring your pet wherever your adventure takes you. It is also exceptionally stable and safe. Different from other models that sag when expanded, this model comes with a wire frame for enhanced stability. This feature also eliminates the sagging corners. Equally, with a double stitched and reinforced edges, this carrier supports medium-sized pets weighing up to 14 pounds. As a bonus, this model comes with a random colored pet bow, bottom fleece base, and a zippered slip pocket for storing your pets snack.
Pros and Cons
- Safe and stable
- Allowed by most airlines
- Innovative foldable design
- Not machine washable
1. Franklin Pet Supply – Pet Carrier
Price: Reasonably priced
Construction: Tough nylon fabric
Special features: Soft removable mat, soft-sided, expandable pet carrier, double-stitched and reinforced edges.
Best for: Ideal for small and medium-sized dogs and cats
Check Price on Amazon NowTraveling with your pets makes a vacation even more enjoyable. This expandable, soft-sided pet carrier is incredibly comfortable and spacious. The expandable side with mesh windows also lets your pet see the entire adventure. It also comes with a top opening and side access, which allows for easy loading. Another handy feature that comes with this model is the removable bed liner, which makes it easier to cleaner. Similarly, this carrier fits under most airline front seat cabin. Made with care, the double-stitched construction plus durable zippers also make it stand out amongst its peers.
Pros and Cons
- Expending sizes offers more space and comfort
- Premium machine-stitched construction
- Airline approved
- Only a few pockets
Factors to consider when selecting the best dog expandable carriers
Your pooch deserves the best in class care. Therefore, you need to be vigilant when selecting any of its products. This also goes for the best dog expandable carriers. Below are some of the crucial features that you should check before selecting the best expandable dog carriers.
Travel safety
As mentioned, you should always prioritize your pet’s safety. So, ensure that you pick a carrier that comes with safety features to ensure that he is secure in a car, on the plane, or when on foot. Some of the features you should consider are such as self-lockable zippers and an inbuilt leash for the anxious pets. External rings/loops that you can attach seatbelt to keep them in place during transport may also be an added advantage.
Airline approved
Looking forward to traveling on a plane? Unfortunately, not all best dog expandable carriers are allowed on a flight. Therefore, you need to ensure that you pick a carrier that is airline approved. While the sizes may differ between airlines, most airlines approved the most popular carries accept pet carries throughout the world. However, it doesn’t hurt double-checking with your airline.
Material and size
Of course, you would need a carrier that doesn’t fall apart within a few times of use. Therefore, we recommend going for models that are made of tough fabric such as oxford or nylon. They should also have double stitching and preferably a removable bed. Additionally, it goes without saying; always measure your pet’s size before selecting a particular carrier.
Conclusion
True, there are multiple best dog expandable carriers on the market. Unfortunately, in these carries, we also have substandard models that often compromise the safety and comfort of your pet. Luckily, for you, we have tested and gone through hundreds of customer reviews to bring you this detailed guide. Therefore, you should expect to find a model that suits your need in our above top 10 best dog carriers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)