Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Dog Crates

BestPet Dog Crate vs Petmate Vari Dog Kennel

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

BestPet Dog Crate and Petmate Vari Dog Kennel score essentially the same (4.5 vs 4.5). Pick the one whose trade-offs match your priorities — the strengths and watch-outs below are where they actually differ.

BestPet Dog Crate
Ranked #2 in Best Dog Crates
BestPet Dog Crate
3 sourcesall derived$66.88as of Jul 31

The BestPet 48-inch foldable metal kennel with double doors gives large dogs a secure space you can move around. Reviewers pointed to the slide-bolt latches and the leakproof tray that keeps cleanup simple. It's meant for travel and for use indoors or out, though some reviewers questioned whether the metal construction suits every dog. Owners who want a sturdy folding kennel that balances portability with security will be satisfied; those who prefer wire or wooden alternatives won't.

Strengths
  • Foldable design for easy storage and transport
  • Double doors provide convenient access for large dogs
  • Includes leakproof tray for easy cleanup
Watch-outs
  • Difficult to transport due to weight
  • Unclear instruction manual
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel
Ranked #3 in Best Dog Crates
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel
2 sourcesall derived$39.99as of Jul 31

The Petmate Vari Kennel is a hard-sided plastic dog travel crate that meets most IATA requirements for airline cargo. Reviewers noted the heavy-duty construction, the tool-free assembly, and the built-in ventilation. It works well for large dogs and the airline-approved design is the main draw, though the bigger sizes take longer to ship and won't fit every vehicle's cargo area. Pet parents who need a durable crate for both travel and everyday use should look here.

Strengths
  • Meets most International Air Transport Association (IATA) requirements for airline travel
  • Durable construction with heavy-duty plastic shell and metal grated door
  • Easy assembly with no tools required, includes spiral wing nuts and bolts
Watch-outs
  • Larger sizes (36" and 40") must ship via LTL/Freight Carrier and arrive in 10-14 business days
  • XL size may not fit upright in some vehicle cargo areas

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

BestPet Dog Crate

The BestPet crate is the largest in the list and offers double doors, but it's heavier than the Diggs Revol and lacks the wheel design. Unlike the Impact High Anxiety crate, it's not escape-proof and doesn't feature a stainless steel slam latch. It's a sturdy, large option but not as portable or secure as some alternatives.

Petmate Vari Dog Kennel

The Petmate Vari meets IATA airline requirements, which the FDW and Sweetcrispy models don't, making it ideal for travel. However, it's heavier than the Diggs Revol and lacks the diamond-shaped safety design. Unlike the Impact High Anxiety crate, it's not escape-proof and doesn't feature a powder-coated aluminum frame. It's a travel-approved hard crate but not the most secure for escape-prone dogs.

Specs side-by-side

SpecBestPet Dog CratePetmate Vari Dog Kennel
MaterialMetalEcoTEC Plastic (90% pre-consumer recycled)
Door TypeDoubleMetal grated
FeaturesLeakproof tray, slide-bolt latches360 Degree Ventilation, Airline Compliant, Easy to assemble
UsageIndoor/Outdoorperfect for both air and car travel
ColorBlackGray/Black
Dimensions48"L x 29"W x 31"H40.000 x 27.000 x 30.000
WeightUp to 31.0 lb
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