Crash-Tested Car Crates for Dogs | CPS-Certified Picks

CPS-certified car crates have passed independent crash testing at over 30 mph, proving they contain and anchor your dog in a collision.

Independent certification is what separates a genuine crash-tested car crate for dogs from one that just carries the label. Most crates marketed as “crash-tested” have zero third-party verification. The few that do carry certification from the Center for Pet Safety (CPS), a nonprofit that independently tests pet travel products. Without that certification, a crate that breaks apart in a collision turns your dog — and the crate itself — into projectiles inside the cabin. This guide covers what CPS testing actually proves, which models passed, and how to pick the right crate for your vehicle.

What “Crash-Tested” Actually Means for Dog Crates

A crash-tested car crate for dogs is a rigid enclosure that has been independently tested to confirm two things under impact: it keeps the dog contained, and it stays anchored to the vehicle. The Center for Pet Safety (CPS) is the only U.S. nonprofit that runs these tests publicly. Their procedure uses dog dummies weighing up to 99 lbs and impacts at speeds exceeding 30 mph.

Per the CPS’s 2015 summary, a passing crate must retain structural integrity, fully contain the test mass, and prevent the crate from striking seatback fixtures. Products that meet these criteria earn a CPS 5-star rating — the highest available. There is no federal U.S. standard for pet crates, so this certification is the closest thing to a reliable benchmark. Manufacturer claims alone, even ones that use the phrase “crash-tested,” are not independently verified and should not be trusted at face value.

The CPS also notes that results apply only to the exact configuration tested. A certification on one size of a crate does not automatically extend to other sizes, and the anchoring method and vehicle setup used during testing are part of what makes the rating valid.

Which Crates Have CPS Certification?

Six crate models are documented as CPS-certified in independent coverage. The table below lists the known certified models and their key details.

Remember that certification is model- and size-specific. A Gunner G1 in one size may not have the same rating as another size, so always verify the specific product’s certification before purchasing.

How to Choose and Install a Crash-Tested Crate

Fit is as important as certification. The crate should be snug in your cargo area so it cannot shift during braking or impact. If you are comparing options, our tested roundup of the best car crates for dogs covers specific models for different vehicles and dog sizes.

Use the manufacturer’s anchoring system exactly as tested. CPS materials stress that the straps and attachment points are part of the certified configuration. A loose or incorrectly anchored crate loses its protection value and can become a hazard itself. Thule’s own test center, which evaluates dog safety products, emphasizes that anchoring integrity is as critical as the crate’s shell strength.

Common mistakes include buying a crate labeled “crash-tested” without checking for CPS certification, assuming a test on one size applies to all sizes, and treating a wire crate as crash protection — wire crates restrain roaming but offer limited collision protection. The safest crate is the one that fits your dog, fits your vehicle, and is properly anchored with its tested hardware. If the crate cannot be secured tightly, its protection value drops significantly and it may create hazards for people in the car.

FAQs

Does CPS certification guarantee my dog won’t be injured?

No. CPS testing measures containment and structural integrity under specific crash conditions at around 30 mph. It does not promise zero injury in every collision, but a certified crate dramatically reduces the risk of the dog becoming a projectile.

Can I use any strap to anchor the crate?

No. The anchoring method that came with the crate — and was used during its CPS test — is the only one validated. Substituting generic straps or bungees can change how the crate performs on impact and may void any certification claim.

Is a crash-tested crate worth the cost?

Crash-tested crates typically cost several hundred dollars, but no lower-priced alternative has passed independent testing. For owners who regularly transport their dog, it is the only verified safety option available on the market.