Kitting your furry friend out with everything they need is all part of the fun of being a top pet parent. Dog leash? Check. Dog sitter? Yup. A cozy crate? Of course… but hang on, aren’t we missing a crucial piece of the puzzle?
You wouldn’t live in a house without walls, so why get a crate without a cover?!
Even our furry friends need a bit of space every now and then, and dog crate covers provide pups with an extra layer of comfort and privacy. While most doggies may benefit from a dog crate cover, vets recommend them for anxious or nervous dogs in particular, and they can also be used to help tackle various behavioral problems.
They’re cozy, warm, and even block out sunlight, so give your four-pawed pal’s den a little makeover with one of the best dog crate covers.
Best overall dog crate cover: Molly Mutt crate cover
Out of all the crate covers for dog crates, this is our top pick because it comes in a variety of styles and sizes and is made from high-quality materials. Not only is the cotton canvas non-toxic and breathable, but it’s also been awarded the OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 badge for being completely harmless to both humans and pets (yippee!). It also wins points for versatility - the front and right side flaps can be rolled up or down depending on the time of day, and side panels can be securely fastened with poppers.
Why we love it:
- It’s machine washable.
- Various styles and sizes are available.
- It’s made from non-toxic materials, meaning it’s free from flame retardants, pesticides, phthalates, and PFAS.
The downside:
- This one isn’t completely blackout, but there are similar blackout versions available.
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Best small dog crate cover: MidWest dog crate cover
Made from a mixture of durable polyester, cotton, and Teflon, these crate covers for dogs are both comforting and easy to clean. Three out of the four sides can be opened to let in air, and velcro fastenings keep everything snug and secure when you decide to close it up.
Why we love it:
- It’s perfect for petite pups.
- It’s durable and water resistant.
- You can open it on three sides.
The downsides:
- It’s not completely blackout.
- It’s only suitable for small dogs.
Best large dog crate cover: Petkei dog crate cover
Even gentle giants need a safe space to get away from it all! This dog crate cover is made from durable, non-toxic Oxford polyester and has a PU coating (not PVC) which is both water-resistant and breathable. Two entranceways allow furry friends to come and go as they please, and roll-up shades can be secured with elastic toggles to allow pups to keep an eye on things.
Why we love it:
- Sizes are available for both large and extra-large pups.
- It’s blackout, allowing your pooch pal to rest undisturbed.
- Small items can be stored in the pocket at the back.
The downside:
- It’s water-resistant rather than waterproof.
Best water-resistant dog crate cover: Explore Land dog crate cover
This dog crate cover is waterproof, windproof, and blocks out light so your furry friends can stay comfortable, warm, and dry no matter where they are. Made from top-tier Oxford cloth, doors can be opened at the front and side, and the mesh window feature allows for ventilation.
Why we love it:
- It’s not just water resistant, it’s waterproof!
- It’s suitable for various-sized crates.
- It’s one of the cheapest options.
The downside:
- Some customers report a smell of chemicals when the cover first arrived. For this reason, we recommend washing it before use.
Best insulated dog crate cover: ArcticShield insulated kennel cover
Insulated dog crate covers are ideal for pups that live in cold climates, and this ArcticShield kennel cover does not disappoint. The aluminized polypropylene core layer in the fabric system locks in more than 90% of your pooch pal’s heat. It also acts as a wind and rain barrier and repels cold air from the outside, so your furry friend stays warm and toasty inside.
Why we love it:
- It’s warm and weather-resistant.
- It’s easy to transport.
- It’s both heavy-duty and light.
The downsides:
- It’s not designed for indoor dog crates.
- It’s expensive.
Best machine washable dog crate cover: Pethiy dog crate cover
We love the paw-print design of this dog crate cover, which is made specifically for metal crates measuring 36L x 23W x 25H inches. The two entrances can be rolled up and secured using hook and loop toggles, and a mesh window allows air to circulate. The double-ply fabric is waterproof, and a fabric protector repels stains and oils for easy cleaning.
Why we love it:
- It can be machine-washed (duh).
- It’s durable and long-lasting.
The downside:
- You cannot tumble dry it after washing - air dry it instead.
Best portable dog crate cover: Mud River Dixie kennel cover
Make sure your four-legged friend rides in comfort with this dog crate cover, available in three sizes from medium to extra large. The heavy-duty exterior shell keeps your pooch pal snug and protected from the elements, and customers report it stays around 10°C warmer inside the crate than outside, so it’s the ideal spot to warm up after a cold, wet walk. Pockets allow you to store extras like poop bags and treats, and rubber mesh windows can be rolled up and secured in place with velcro straps when your pup needs a bit of airing out. Four D-rings can be used to tie it down for extra security, especially when traveling.
Why we love it:
- It keeps dogs comfortable and secure while traveling.
- It’s well-made and durable.
- It’s super insulating.
The downside:
- It’s on the pricey side.
How to choose a dog crate cover
Size
Before ordering a dog crate cover, you’ll need to measure the height, width, and depth of your crate. Make sure the cover you choose fits your pup’s crate perfectly, so they’ve got access to doors and ventilation. Sometimes it can be handy to buy a cover made by the same manufacturer as your dog crate so you’re absolutely sure it will fit.
Material
Choose a material that suits your dog’s needs:
- Durability: If your dog tends to chew or scratch, look for heavy-duty materials.
- Climate control: For insulation against cold, heavier fabrics are best. In warmer climates, a lighter, breathable fabric like cotton or mesh provides ventilation.
- Cleaning: Look for machine-washable materials for hassle-free maintenance.
- Safety: Ensure the material is non-toxic and safe for pets.
Price
Crate covers for dog crates vary greatly in price; typically those that are designed to be used inside are on the cheaper side and more heavy-duty ones will cost a bit more. Finally, if you don’t want to splurge, try covering the dog crate with a blanket.
The 7 best dog crate covers of 2024 - FAQs
Covering a dog’s crate can help them feel safe and secure and can help reduce behavioral problems. A covered crate acts as a den-like space which can feel particularly comforting for dogs that suffer from anxiety and stress, as it blocks out chaotic sights and sounds.
Covering a dog crate at night can create a cozy, dark environment for them to fall asleep in. It can become a valuable part of your pup’s bedtime routine and signals to them that it’s time to wind down for the night.
