A **dog carrier** is not only a safe way to transport your dog; it also acts as a safe place and a sanctuary where your dog can feel calm and protected during transport. We offer everything from sturdy plastic carriers approved for air freight (often called flight carriers ), practical foldable versions in fabric or metal for easy storage, to flexible carriers with wheels that make moving easier. Explore our range and find the **dog carrier** that best suits your dog's size, temperament and your specific travel needs, so you can enjoy every adventure together.

In this in-depth guide, we will explore why a **dog carrier** is so important, the different types available, how to choose the right size and material, and how to best train your dog for a positive experience in the carrier. We will also go over important aspects of transporting & traveling with a dog, including legal requirements and tips for both car and air travel. We will also show how our **dog carrier** complements other dog products in the Zoostar range, such as dog cages , dog bags and backpacks , and dog gates , to provide a complete picture of safe and practical transport solutions.

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Why a Dog Transport Crate Is a Necessity

A **dog carrier** is more than just a tool; it is a safety device and a safe haven for your dog. Its function extends far beyond simply "keeping the dog in place".

1. Optimal Safety During Transportation:

• Collision Protection: In the event of sudden braking or an accident, a loose dog can become a dangerous projectile. A sturdy **dog carrier** keeps the dog safely in place, reducing the risk of serious injury to both the dog and the passengers in the vehicle.
• Prevents Distractions: A dog moving freely in the car can distract the driver and increase the risk of accidents. Placing the dog in a **transport cage** minimizes these disturbances.
• Meets Legal Requirements: In many countries, including Sweden, it is a law that dogs must be secured during transport. An approved **dog transport cage** is an excellent way to meet these requirements.

2. Comfort & Stress Reduction:

• Safe Haven: For many dogs, the crate becomes a familiar and calming place, similar to a cave. This reduces stress and motion sickness during the journey.
• Own Place: In a transport cage, the dog gets a delimited and safe area where it can feel protected from external influences. This is especially important for nervous dogs.
• Reduces Motion Sickness: Limited freedom of movement in the cage can help prevent or reduce motion sickness in dogs.

3. Versatility in Use:

• Travel: Perfect for car, train, bus and plane (with the right type of cage).
• Temporary Enclosure: Functions as a temporary sleeping place or a safe place when you are visiting friends or at a hotel.
• Training: Often used in crate training for puppies, to establish house cleanliness and calm.
• Vet Visits: Makes it easier and safer to transport an injured or sick dog to the vet.

Invest in a **dog transport cage** from Zoostar.se to ensure your dog's well-being and your own peace of mind during all your travels together. Choosing the right equipment is an investment in a long and safe relationship with your dog.

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Types of Dog Transport Cages: Which One Is Best?

Zoostar.se offers a variety of **dog transport cages** to meet different needs and preferences. Knowing the different types will help you make an informed decision.

1. Plastic Transport Cages:

• Description: Robust cages made of hard plastic, often with a metal mesh door and good ventilation. Easy to clean.
• Advantages: Very durable, easy to transport and most models are approved for air freight (IATA standard) , making them "air cages". They give the dog a cozy and safe feeling.
• Areas of use: Ideal for air travel ( flying with a dog cage ), car travel (especially in the back seat), train and bus, and veterinary visits.

2. Fabric Transport Cages (Soft Cages):

• Description: Lightweight, foldable cages made of durable fabric, with mesh windows for ventilation and light.
• Advantages: Extremely portable and easy to store as they can be folded. Very lightweight, which is practical if you need to carry the cage. Gives a cozy and comfortable feeling.
• Areas of use: Shorter car trips (as extra security, not for crash safety as a car cage ), indoor use as a sleeping place on the road, at exhibitions or courses, or in the garden. Not suitable for air freight or as primary crash safety in a car.

3. Metal Transport Cages (Grid Cages):

• Description: Cages made of sturdy metal grids, often foldable for easy storage. Provides maximum ventilation and visibility.
• Pros: Very durable, provides excellent ventilation and allows your dog to see around. Easy to clean and resistant to chewing. Many are foldable.
• Areas of use: Perfect as stationary cages at home, in the trunk of a car (see below for difference to dog cages ), in hotels or cottages. Some models are designed as car cages with slanted walls for optimal fit.

4. Transport cages with wheels (Trolleys):

• Description: Often plastic cages or a combination of plastic and fabric, equipped with wheels and a retractable handle.
• Benefits: Reduces the strain on you when transporting larger or heavier dogs. Perfect for long distances at airports, train stations or in the city.
• Areas of use: Travel where the dog needs to be moved longer distances without being carried, for example at airports or when visiting large shopping malls.

Each type of **dog carrier** has its own unique advantages. Consider your dog's needs, your most common travel destinations, and any specific requirements (e.g. for air travel ) to make the best choice. Zoostar.se has the options for you!

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Choosing the Right Dog Carrier: Size, Comfort & Safety

Choosing the most suitable **dog carrier** is crucial for your dog's well-being and your mutual safety. Here are the most important factors to consider:

1. The Right Size is A and O:

• Dog Dimensions: The cage must be large enough for your dog to stand upright with their head up (without hitting the ceiling), turn around comfortably, and lie flat on their side in a natural sleeping position. Measure your dog's height, length, and width.
• Not Too Big: A cage that is too big can cause the dog to be thrown around during sudden braking, which reduces safety. For air travel, there are specific IATA dimensions that must be strictly followed.
• Puppies: If you buy a **transport cage** for a puppy, keep in mind that it will grow. Some cages have dividers that can be removed as the puppy gets bigger.

2. Materials & Construction:

• Plastic cages: Sturdy and easy to clean. Good for airplanes and cars. Make sure the plastic is high quality and the mesh door is secure.
• Fabric cages: Lightweight and foldable, but don't offer the same crash safety as a hard plastic or metal cage in the car. Perfect for short breaks or as a portable "cave".
• Metal cages (Grid cages): Very durable and provide good ventilation. Some models are designed like car cages with custom angles for the trunk.
• Ventilation: Regardless of the material, make sure the cage has sufficient openings or mesh panels for good air circulation, especially in hot weather.

3. Safety features:

• Lock: Robust and secure locking mechanism on the door/doors that the dog cannot open from the inside.
• Stability: For car travel, make sure the cage is stable or can be secured with straps. A dedicated dog car cage is crash-tested and designed to handle the forces of a collision.
• Handles/Wheels: Ergonomic handles for easy portability. For larger cages, wheels can be a big advantage.

4. Travel method & Application area:

• Car: If this is the primary use, consider a dedicated car cage or a sturdy plastic cage that can be properly secured. Feel free to supplement with a dog gate if your dog needs more space.
• Flights: Only IATA-approved plastic cages are allowed in the cargo hold of aircraft. Always check the airline's exact requirements well in advance.
• Public transport: Smaller plastic cages or dog bags are suitable for trains and buses, depending on the size of the dog.

5. Comfort details:

• Bedding: A soft and absorbent bedding or dog blanket makes the crate more comfortable and contributes to a calmer journey.
• Water/Food Bowl: Some cages have integrated or attachable bowls. Important for longer trips.
• Cooling mat: In warm temperatures, a cooling mat can be placed in the cage to help the dog stay cool.

By carefully considering these points, you can choose a **dog transport cage** from Zoostar.se that will be a safe and comfortable place for your dog, no matter where the adventure takes you.

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Train Your Dog to Love His Carrier

A **dog transport crate** will only be a safe place if the dog associates it with positive experiences. Crate training is an investment that pays off in the long run.

1. Introduce the Cage Positively:

• Place the Cage in the Home: Place the cage in a quiet and comfortable place in the home. Leave the door open initially.
• Make It Inviting: Place a soft bed mat , a favoritepillow , or a blanket with your dog's scent inside. Sprinkle treats inside.
• Reward Voluntary Interest: Praise and reward every time the dog approaches, sniffs, or enters the cage voluntarily. Throw in treats to entice it in.

2. Gradual Habituation:

• Short Periods: Once the dog is comfortable going inside, close the door for short periods (just a few seconds) and reward. Gradually increase the time.
• Meals in the Crate: Feed the dog in the crate with the door open. Once comfortable, close the door during meals.
• Slowly Increase the Time: Once the dog is comfortable being in the crate with the door closed, you can leave the room for short periods of time and gradually increase the time.

3. For Travel:

• Short Car Trips: Start with very short car trips, just a few minutes. Always end with something positive, like a short walk or play.
• Avoid Food Before the Trip: If your dog gets motion sick easily, avoid feeding him right before a long trip.
• Calm & Patience: Always be calm and patient. Never force the dog in, as it may associate the crate with something negative. Build positive associations.

A well-trained dog that feels secure in its **dog carrier** will experience travel as a natural and stress-free part of life. This is the foundation of all **safe dog transportation**.

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Dog transport cages in Zoostar's Total Range for Transport & Travel

At Zoostar.se, **dog transport cages** are a central part of our broad commitment to your dog's safety and well-being during all types of transfers. They perfectly complement our other range of transport & travel products.

• Dog Products : Our **dog transport cages** are part of a holistic range of dog products aimed at making dog ownership safe and comfortable.
• Transport & Travel : This overarching category contains all solutions for **traveling with a dog**, with **dog transport cages** being one of the safest and most versatile options.
• Dog Bags & Backpacks : For smaller dogs or shorter distances where you want to **carry your dog** close to you, our dog bags and backpacks offer a convenient solution, sometimes even as small transport cages.
• Dog transport cage : Here you will find our entire specialized range of **dog transport cages**, from air cargo-approved models to collapsible cages for the car and home.
• Dog Cages : For the highest level of crash safety in a car, our robust and specially designed dog cages are recommended, which are designed to withstand the stresses of an accident in the trunk of a car (often called **car dog cage**). They offer maximum protection.
• Dog gates : As an alternative to an enclosed cage, a dog gate in the trunk of your car can provide your dog with a safe and enclosed area with more space.

We at Zoostar.se are committed to offering solutions that allow you and your dog to live an active and safe life together. A well-chosen **dog transport cage** is a fundamental part of this, and we are happy to help you find the perfect model for your needs. Welcome to explore our range for **safe dog transport**!

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Frequently Asked Questions about Dog Transport Cages (FAQ)

What is the difference between a dog crate and a dog transport crate?

A **dog carrier** is a more general term that refers to cages designed to transport dogs by various means of transport (car, plane, train, hand-carried). They can be made of plastic, fabric or metal. A **dog carrier** (often called a car carrier ) is specifically designed to be placed in the trunk of a car and is usually crash-tested with a focus on maximum safety in the event of a collision. They may have slanted walls to fit the shape of the car.

Does my dog have to travel in a transport cage in the car in Sweden?

Yes, according to the Swedish Board of Agriculture regulations, a dog must be secured during transport in a car. This means either in a **dog transport cage** (of an approved model and size), a dedicated dog cage for a car, or with a safety harness that is crash-tested and attached to the seat belt. A loose dog in the car is not allowed.

What type of dog transport cage is approved for air freight?

For air cargo in the cargo hold, an IATA-approved **dog transport cage** made of hard plastic is usually required. These cages have specific requirements for ventilation, size, material and security locks. Always check the airline's exact requirements well in advance of your trip, as regulations may vary slightly. Also, check the regulations for the country you are traveling to.

How big of a transport crate does my dog need?

The cage must be spacious enough for your dog to stand upright with his head up, turn around comfortably, and lie flat on his side in a natural sleeping position. A cage that is too small is uncomfortable and stressful, while a cage that is too large can be less safe in the event of a collision as the dog can be thrown around. Always measure your dog carefully (height, length, width) and compare with the inside dimensions of the cage.

Can I use a soft fabric carrier for car travel?

Soft fabric transport cages are practical and comfortable for the dog, but generally do not offer the same crash safety as hard plastic or metal cages in the event of a collision. They can be used for short, quiet car trips as a way to keep the dog confined and calm, but should not be seen as a primary safety solution in the event of an accident. For maximum safety in the car, a crash-tested dog cage is recommended.

How do I make the transport crate a safe place for my dog?

Start with positive crate training at home. Leave the crate open with a soft blanket and treats inside. Reward every time the dog goes in voluntarily. Practice closing the door for short periods. Feed the dog in the crate. Slowly increase the time the dog spends in the crate and make it a place for rest and positive experiences. Never force the dog in, as the crate may be perceived negatively.