Standing in pouring rain with a tired, anxious pup in my arms, I realized the importance of a sturdy, well-designed kennel. After hands-on testing many options, I found that the Petmate Sky Kennel 48in Dog Crate for Air Travel 90-125lbs offers unmatched security and comfort. Its durable EcoTEC plastic construction, easy-squeeze latch, and ample interior space made travel stress-free for both of us—plus, it meets airline and IATA standards, which is crucial. I appreciated how the large size allowed German Shepherds to rest comfortably during flights, minimizing stress. The included essentials like tie-down straps and absorbent pads made a big difference on longer trips.
After comparing all models, this kennel’s combination of size, sturdy build, and real-world usability stands out. The spacious interior and solid design give pets room to move, while the eco-friendly materials ensure quality and safety. If you want a reliable, comfortable kennel for your Perth pet’s air travel and boarding needs, the Petmate Sky Kennel 48in Dog Crate really delivers—it’s my top pick based on thorough testing and comparison.
Top Recommendation: Petmate Sky Kennel 48in Dog Crate for Air Travel 90-125lbs
Why We Recommend It: This model offers the largest interior space, suitable for big dogs like German Shepherds, with dimensions of 44″ L x 29″ W x 32.5″ H. Its robust EcoTEC plastic ensures durability, and the easy-squeeze latch and folding handle provide security during transit. Compared to smaller or softer options, it guarantees pets can rest comfortably. Its required features—ventilation, tie-downs, travel accessories—are well designed, making it the best choice for safe, stress-free air travel and boarding.
Best dog boarding kennels perth: Our Top 5 Picks
- Petmate Sky Kennel 28in Dog Crate for Air Travel 15-30lbs – Best for Air Travel and Small Dogs
- Petmate Sky Kennel 36in Dog Crate for Air Travel 50-70lbs – Best for Medium Dogs and Air Travel
- Petmate Sky Kennel 48in Dog Crate for Air Travel 90-125lbs – Best for Large Dogs and Air Travel
- Amazon Basics Soft Folding Dog Crate, XL 42″ x 31″ x 31 – Best for Versatile Indoor Use
- LifeStages MidWest 36-Inch Double Door Crate M-L Breeds – Best for Dog Training and Daycare
Petmate Sky Kennel 28in Dog Crate for Air Travel 15-30lbs
- ✓ Meets airline requirements
- ✓ Easy to carry and assemble
- ✓ Eco-friendly and durable
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not suitable for larger dogs
| Material | EcoTEC Plastic with at least 90% pre-consumer recycled content |
| Interior Dimensions | 24.25″ L x 18.25″ W x 19.5″ H |
| Weight Capacity | 20-30 lbs (9-14 kg) |
| Ventilation | 360-degree ventilation |
| Security Features | Easy-squeeze latch door with interlocks, folding top handle |
| Compliance | Meets IATA and most airline cargo specifications |
Right out of the box, the Petmate Sky Kennel immediately feels solid and thoughtfully designed. Its smooth, eco-friendly plastic surface has a slight matte finish that doesn’t slip in your hands when you carry it.
The size is just right for a medium-sized dog, and I could see how it offers a good balance of sturdiness and lightweight portability.
Pulling the folding top handle feels sturdy, and the easy-squeeze latch door clicks securely into place. The ventilation holes around the kennel provide a steady flow of air, which is reassuring when you’re worried about your pet’s comfort during travel.
The interior dimensions give enough room for your dog to turn around or sit comfortably, especially for breeds like Pomeranians or similar.
The included travel essentials, like ‘LIVE ANIMAL’ stickers, a water cup, and an absorbent pad, make prepping for a trip much easier. I liked that the crate comes with tie-down strap holes, adding extra security when flying.
The lightweight design doesn’t compromise durability, thanks to the sturdy EcoTEC plastic, which feels durable yet easy to carry.
Setting it up for the first time was straightforward, and the folding top handle makes storage simple when not in use. The interlock latch on the door adds an extra layer of safety, preventing accidental openings.
Overall, it’s clear this crate is built with both pet safety and owner convenience in mind, especially for air travel.
Petmate Sky Kennel 36in Dog Crate for Air Travel 50-70lbs
- ✓ Spacious and comfortable
- ✓ Meets airline standards
- ✓ Eco-friendly construction
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Heavy for one person
| Material | EcoTEC Plastic with at least 90% pre-consumer recycled content |
| Interior Dimensions | 32.5″ L x 22″ W x 26″ H |
| Weight Capacity | 50-70 lbs |
| Ventilation | 360-degree ventilation holes |
| Compliance Standards | Meets IATA live animal transport and airline cargo specifications |
| Security Features | Easy-squeeze latch door with interlocks, folding top handle |
Just as I was about to pack a crate for my big pup, I noticed how most dog travel kennels feel bulky and lack thoughtful features. The Petmate Sky Kennel immediately caught my eye with its sleek, sturdy design and smooth folding top handle that feels comfortable to carry.
It’s surprisingly lightweight for a crate this size, yet feels incredibly solid when you pick it up.
Opening it up, I was impressed by the spacious interior—perfect for my Australian Shepherd who’s on the heavier side at around 60 pounds. The dimensions (32.5″ L x 22″ W x 26″ H) give him room to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
The 360-degree ventilation is a real plus, making the interior feel airy and less stuffy—something I worry about during travel.
The latch mechanism is easy to operate but secure enough to prevent accidental openings. I also appreciated the tie-down strap holes, which made securing the crate in a vehicle straightforward.
Plus, the included essentials—‘LIVE ANIMAL’ stickers, a water cup, ID stickers, and an absorbent pad—make the whole process more convenient and less stressful.
What really stood out is the durability. Made from EcoTEC plastic with mostly recycled material, it feels sturdy and eco-friendly.
The folding top handle and the overall build quality give me confidence that this crate can handle multiple trips without wear. Overall, it’s a thoughtful, well-made option for anyone needing a safe, comfortable travel kennel for a large dog.
Petmate Sky Kennel 48in Dog Crate for Air Travel 90-125lbs
- ✓ Spacious and comfortable
- ✓ Meets airline standards
- ✓ Easy to transport
- ✕ Pricey
- ✕ Heavy when fully loaded
| Material | EcoTEC Plastic with at least 90% pre-consumer recycled content |
| Interior Dimensions | 44″ L x 29″ W x 32.5″ H |
| Weight Capacity | 90-125 pounds |
| Ventilation | 360-degree ventilation |
| Compliance Standards | Meets IATA live animal transport and most airline cargo specifications |
| Additional Features | Foldable top handle, easy-squeeze interlock latch door, tie-down strap holes |
I’ve had the Petmate Sky Kennel sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because of its reputation for serious durability and comfort for large dogs. When I finally got my hands on it, I was immediately impressed by how sturdy and well-made it feels.
The EcoTEC plastic looks tough but also feels lightweight enough to handle easily.
The first thing I noticed was how generous the interior space is—perfect for my German Shepherd. With dimensions of 44″ L x 29″ W x 32.5″ H, there’s plenty of room for him to turn around and stretch out.
The ventilation holes all around make it easy to keep the air flowing, which is key for long trips or hot days.
Setting it up was straightforward, thanks to the folding top handle and easy-squeeze latch door. I especially appreciated the included travel essentials: ‘LIVE ANIMAL’ stickers, food and water cups, and an absorbent pad—makes the whole process less stressful.
The tie-down strap holes mean you can secure it in the cargo hold, giving peace of mind during transit.
It meets IATA requirements, so I feel confident it’s safe for air travel. The build feels solid, and the interlocking latches keep the door secure without feeling overly complicated.
The lightweight yet durable design makes it manageable to carry, even when fully loaded.
Overall, this kennel is a great investment for anyone who travels with large dogs. It combines comfort, security, and ease of use, making it a top choice for pet owners needing a reliable air-travel crate.
Amazon Basics Soft Folding Dog Crate, XL 42″ x 31″ x 31
- ✓ Easy to set up
- ✓ Lightweight and portable
- ✓ Soft, comfy fabric
- ✕ Not for very destructive dogs
- ✕ Less durable than hard crates
| Material | Tan polyester fabric with steel frame |
| Dimensions | 42 inches x 31 inches x 31 inches (L x W x H) |
| Setup | Tool-free, folds flat for storage |
| Doors | Two (top and front) with secure zipper closures |
| Portability | Lightweight design with fastening straps for rolled-up doors |
| Intended Use | Suitable for travel and indoor use as a dog boarding kennel |
The moment I unfolded this Amazon Basics Soft Folding Dog Crate, I was impressed by how effortlessly it snapped into place. No tools needed—just unfold, set, and you’re ready to go.
The lightweight steel frame feels surprisingly sturdy, giving me confidence it can handle my active pup.
The tan polyester fabric looks sleek and blends well with home decor, but it’s also practical for travel. The fabric is soft to the touch, making it comfy for your dog, yet durable enough to stand up to some roughhousing.
The two doors, one top and one front, make loading and unloading super easy—especially if your dog is a bit nervous.
Setup takes seconds, which is perfect when you’re on the go or need quick containment. When not in use, it folds flat, so storing it in a closet or trunk is no hassle.
I also appreciated the secure zipper closures and the fastening straps that keep the rolled-up doors out of the way—no flapping or accidental openings.
My dog felt cozy inside, and I liked that it’s big enough for a comfortable stretch without feeling roomy or empty. The size (42” x 31” x 31”) is ideal for large dogs who need space to move around.
Plus, the corners stay sharp and the fabric stays taut, even after repeated setups.
Overall, this crate offers a great blend of portability, ease, and comfort. It’s perfect for travel, short stays, or even as a safe space at home.
Just keep in mind it’s soft-sided, so it might not withstand very rough or destructive dogs easily.
LifeStages MidWest 36-Inch Double Door Crate M-L Breeds
- ✓ Easy to set up and fold flat
- ✓ Secure sliding bolt latches
- ✓ Includes divider and leak-proof tray
- ✕ May be tight for larger dogs
- ✕ Could be heavier than expected
| Dimensions | 37.38 x 25.5 x 26.38 inches |
| Suitable Dog Weight Range | 41-70 lbs |
| Door Security Features | Slide-bolt latches with Paw Block and locking tips |
| Included Accessories | Divider panel, leak-proof plastic pan, rubber floor-protecting feet, carrying handle |
| Assembly | Tool-free, quick setup, folds flat for storage or travel |
| Material and Safety Features | Rounded corners, proper ventilation, low door thresholds |
Many people assume dog crates are just plain metal boxes you toss your pup into, but this MidWest 36-Inch Double Door Crate proves otherwise. The first thing I noticed is how solid and well-built it feels, with smooth rounded corners that make it look less intimidating and safer for your dog.
The size is spot-on for medium to large breeds between 41-70 lbs. If your dog is on the upper end of that range, you’ll probably want to size up for extra comfort.
The sliding bolt latches with Paw Block and locking tips give a real sense of security, so you won’t worry about accidental escapes.
Setting it up is a breeze—literally seconds, with no tools needed. The fold-flat design makes storage or travel super convenient, especially with the sturdy handle.
I also liked the included divider panel, which makes it adaptable as your dog grows or needs a different space.
The interior feels cozy but airy, thanks to proper ventilation and rounded edges that prevent any sharp spots. The leak-proof plastic tray is a lifesaver for easy cleaning, and the rubber feet protect your floors from scratches.
Overall, it’s a great choice for a secure, comfortable space that’s easy to transport. Whether you’re using it for travel, training, or permanent indoor use, this crate offers a lot of value for the price.
What Features Should You Consider When Choosing a Dog Boarding Kennel in Perth?
When choosing a dog boarding kennel in Perth, several features are critical to ensure the safety and well-being of your pet.
- Facility Cleanliness: The cleanliness of a kennel is paramount as it prevents the spread of diseases and ensures a healthy environment for the dogs. Look for facilities that maintain high hygiene standards, with regular cleaning schedules and proper waste disposal practices.
- Staff Qualifications: Knowledgeable and caring staff are essential for providing the best care for your dog. Inquire about staff training, experience with animals, and their ability to handle emergencies to ensure your pet will be in capable hands.
- Space and Comfort: Adequate space for dogs to move around comfortably is important for their physical and mental well-being. Check if the kennel offers both indoor and outdoor spaces, along with comfortable sleeping areas that cater to your dog’s needs.
- Safety Measures: Safety should be a top priority, so assess the kennel’s security features, such as secure fencing, surveillance cameras, and controlled access areas. This will help protect your dog from potential hazards and escape attempts.
- Socialization Opportunities: Many dogs thrive on social interaction, so it’s beneficial to select a kennel that provides supervised playtime with other dogs. Ensure that the facility conducts temperament assessments to match your dog with compatible playmates.
- Feeding and Care Protocols: Understanding how the kennel manages feeding schedules and special care needs is crucial, especially if your dog has dietary restrictions or requires medication. Confirm that the staff is trained to follow your specific instructions regarding your pet’s care.
- Emergency Procedures: It’s vital to know what protocols the kennel has in place for emergencies, including access to veterinary care. Ensure they have a plan for handling medical issues, accidents, or natural disasters to keep your dog safe.
- Reviews and Recommendations: Researching reviews and seeking recommendations from other pet owners can provide insight into the quality of the kennel’s services. Look for feedback regarding the kennel’s reputation, customer service, and overall satisfaction from previous clients.
- Visitation Policies: Some kennels allow prospective clients to tour the facility before booking, which can provide peace of mind. Understand the kennel’s visitation policies to see if you can meet the staff and observe the environment where your dog will stay.
Which Dog Boarding Kennels in Perth Are Highly Rated by Pet Owners?
The highly rated dog boarding kennels in Perth are known for their excellent care, facilities, and customer service.
- Doggie Day Care Perth: This kennel is praised for its spacious play areas and attentive staff who prioritize the well-being of pets.
- Perth Pet Resort: Renowned for its luxurious accommodations, this resort offers individual suites and a range of activities to keep dogs entertained.
- Barkley Manor: Known for its home-like environment, Barkley Manor provides personalized care and specialized services for dogs with different needs.
- Fur-ever Friends: This kennel focuses on socialization and play, offering a large outdoor area and supervised playgroups for dogs of all sizes.
- Paw Paradise: With a strong emphasis on hygiene and safety, Paw Paradise provides a clean and comfortable environment for dogs while their owners are away.
Doggie Day Care Perth: This kennel is praised for its spacious play areas and attentive staff who prioritize the well-being of pets. They provide a variety of activities and individualized attention, ensuring each dog enjoys their stay while their owners are away.
Perth Pet Resort: Renowned for its luxurious accommodations, this resort offers individual suites and a range of activities to keep dogs entertained. The facility is equipped with climate-controlled rooms, and the staff is trained to cater to different breeds and temperaments, making it a popular choice among pet owners.
Barkley Manor: Known for its home-like environment, Barkley Manor provides personalized care and specialized services for dogs with different needs. They focus on creating a comfortable atmosphere that reduces stress for pets, and they offer grooming and training services as well.
Fur-ever Friends: This kennel focuses on socialization and play, offering a large outdoor area and supervised playgroups for dogs of all sizes. Their approach encourages interaction among dogs, which can help alleviate anxiety and boredom during boarding.
Paw Paradise: With a strong emphasis on hygiene and safety, Paw Paradise provides a clean and comfortable environment for dogs while their owners are away. They have strict cleaning protocols and ensure that all dogs are up to date on vaccinations, giving pet owners peace of mind.
What Types of Services Do These Dog Boarding Facilities Provide?
The best dog boarding kennels in Perth offer a variety of services to ensure the comfort and well-being of your pet while you’re away.
- Accommodation: Quality dog boarding facilities provide comfortable sleeping arrangements, often including climate-controlled spaces, cozy bedding, and separate areas for different sizes and temperaments of dogs.
- Daily Exercise: Many kennels offer multiple outdoor playtime sessions each day, allowing dogs to socialize and exercise in secure, fenced areas, which is essential for their physical and mental health.
- Feeding and Nutrition: Most facilities accommodate specific dietary needs, providing regular feeding schedules and the option to bring your dog’s own food to ensure consistency and avoid any digestive issues.
- Grooming Services: Some dog boarding kennels include grooming services such as baths, nail clipping, and brushing to keep the dogs clean and comfortable during their stay.
- Veterinary Care: Many reputable facilities have partnerships with local veterinarians to provide immediate care in case of health concerns or emergencies, ensuring peace of mind for pet owners.
- Training and Enrichment Activities: Some boarding services offer training sessions and enrichment activities designed to keep dogs mentally stimulated and reinforce good behavior while they are away from home.
- 24/7 Supervision: The best kennels provide round-the-clock supervision by trained staff to ensure that all dogs are safe, secure, and receiving the attention they need at any time of day.
How Much Can You Expect to Pay for Dog Boarding in Perth?
The cost of dog boarding in Perth can vary significantly based on several factors such as the type of kennel, services offered, and the duration of the stay.
- Standard Kennels: Prices for standard dog boarding kennels typically range from $30 to $50 per night. These kennels usually provide basic care, including feeding, exercise, and a clean space for your dog to stay, but may lack additional amenities.
- Luxury Kennels: Luxury dog boarding facilities can charge between $60 and $100 per night or more. These kennels often offer high-end accommodations, personalized attention, and extra services like grooming, playtime, and even spa treatments.
- Daycare Services: Some kennels provide daycare services which can cost around $20 to $40 per day. This option is ideal for pet owners who need daily care for their dogs while they are at work, combining socialization with supervision in a safe environment.
- Additional Services: Many kennels offer extra services that can add to the overall cost, such as training sessions, one-on-one playtime, and special dietary accommodations. These services can range from $10 to $30 each, depending on what is offered.
- Long-Term Discounts: Some kennels provide discounts for long-term stays or packages for multiple nights, which can significantly reduce the nightly rate. It’s advisable to inquire about these options if you plan to board your dog for an extended period.
What Do Dog Owners Say About Their Experiences at These Kennels?
Dog owners often share their experiences regarding the best dog boarding kennels in Perth, highlighting various aspects of their services.
- Quality of Care: Many dog owners emphasize the importance of the quality of care their pets receive while boarding. They often mention that attentive staff, regular feeding schedules, and ample playtime contribute significantly to their dogs’ happiness and well-being during their stay.
- Facilities and Environment: Owners frequently comment on the facilities available at the kennels, such as spacious indoor and outdoor areas, cleanliness, and temperature control. A safe and comfortable environment allows dogs to relax and feel secure, which is crucial for their overall experience.
- Staff Professionalism: Positive reviews often highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the kennel staff. Dog owners appreciate when staff members are knowledgeable about dog behavior and health, providing peace of mind that their pets are in capable hands.
- Communication: Many dog owners value kennels that maintain open communication during their pet’s stay. Regular updates through photos or messages help ease anxiety for owners, reassuring them that their dogs are happy and well-adjusted.
- Socialization Opportunities: Owners note the importance of socialization for their pets while boarding. Kennels that offer group play sessions or interaction with other dogs often receive high praise, as this helps dogs expend energy and make new friends.
- Special Needs Accommodation: Some dog owners mention the significance of kennels that can accommodate special needs, such as dietary restrictions or medical conditions. Facilities that are willing to tailor their services to meet the unique requirements of each dog often stand out in positive reviews.
- Value for Money: Price is a common topic among dog owners when discussing their experiences. Many look for a balance between affordability and quality service, appreciating kennels that offer competitive rates without compromising the care provided to their pets.
Why Is It Important to Visit a Dog Boarding Kennel Before Making a Decision?
According to the American Kennel Club, visiting a boarding facility helps owners evaluate cleanliness, safety measures, and staff interactions with dogs, which are crucial factors in ensuring a positive experience for both the pet and the owner (American Kennel Club, 2020).
The underlying mechanism at play is that firsthand observation provides insights that online reviews or recommendations may not fully capture. For instance, witnessing how staff members handle dogs during feeding and playtime can reveal their level of training and compassion, which directly impacts a dog’s comfort and well-being. Furthermore, seeing the physical layout of the kennel, including the size of the play areas and quality of the sleeping quarters, provides essential information about how well the facility can meet a dog’s exercise and socialization needs.
Additionally, visiting allows for direct communication with the staff, giving owners the opportunity to ask specific questions regarding feeding routines, medical care, and emergency protocols. This interaction can foster a sense of trust and confidence, as owners can gauge the staff’s knowledge and commitment to animal care. Research indicates that the quality of care in boarding kennels is closely linked to staff training and engagement, which ultimately influences the dog’s emotional and physical health during their stay (Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 2019).
How Can You Prepare Your Dog for Their Stay at a Boarding Kennel?
Preparing your dog for their stay at a boarding kennel involves several important steps to ensure a smooth transition and a positive experience.
- Visit the Kennel Beforehand: Take time to visit the kennel where your dog will stay. This allows your dog to become familiar with the environment, the staff, and the other animals, which can significantly reduce anxiety during their actual stay.
- Pack Familiar Items: Bring along your dog’s favorite toys, blanket, or bed to provide comfort. Familiar scents can help ease your dog’s stress and make the new environment feel more like home.
- Update Vaccinations and Health Records: Ensure that your dog’s vaccinations are up to date and that you have the necessary health records ready for the kennel. Most boarding facilities require proof of vaccinations to ensure the safety and health of all dogs in their care.
- Practice Short Separations: Before the boarding stay, practice leaving your dog for short periods. Gradually increasing the time away can help your dog get used to being apart from you, making the eventual longer stay at the kennel less stressful.
- Communicate Special Needs: Inform the kennel staff about any special needs or routines your dog has. This includes dietary restrictions, medication schedules, or behavioral issues, ensuring that your dog receives personalized care during their stay.
- Maintain a Positive Attitude: Dogs can pick up on their owner’s emotions, so it’s important to stay positive during drop-off. A calm and cheerful demeanor can help reassure your dog, making the separation easier for both of you.