TL;DR
Choosing between Bergan and Petmate often comes down to a fundamental choice between soft-sided portability and hard-sided security. Bergan specializes in lightweight, stylish carriers that excel in airline cabins and short trips to the vet. Their designs prioritize airflow and aesthetics, making them a favorite for dogs under 15 pounds who enjoy seeing their surroundings. On the other hand, Petmate is the industry titan of hard plastic kennels. Their products are built for durability, long-distance road trips, and cargo travel, offering a “den-like” security that many anxious dogs prefer. While Bergan offers superior padding and shoulder straps for the owner’s comfort, Petmate provides a virtually indestructible shell that protects against bumps and impacts. If you are flying frequently and want your dog under the seat, Bergan is usually the better fit. If you need a rugged, easy-to-clean enclosure for a dog that might chew through mesh, Petmate is the clear winner.
Introduction: The Battle of the Small Breed Carriers
After testing over a dozen carriers with high-energy Jack Russells and sensitive Chihuahuas, I’ve realized that a carrier is more than just a box—it is your dog’s mobile safe haven. When you are standing in a crowded airport terminal or packing for a weekend getaway, the difference between a high-quality carrier and a flimsy one becomes immediately apparent. For small breed owners, the market often feels split between two giants: Bergan and Petmate.
Small dogs have unique needs. They are more susceptible to temperature changes, they can be more prone to travel anxiety, and their size makes them perfect candidates for in-cabin flight travel. Choosing the right brand requires looking past the price tag and evaluating the lifestyle you lead with your dog. I have spent years observing how dogs react to different enclosures, and I can tell you that a dog who feels secure will settle down much faster than one who feels exposed or cramped. Whether you are browsing for new pet gear and accessories or replacing an old crate, understanding the Bergan vs. Petmate divide is the first step toward a stress-free journey.
Key Brand Differences: Bergan vs. Petmate
Brand Philosophy: Soft-Sided Comfort vs. Hard-Sided Security
Bergan approaches travel with a focus on “lifestyle integration.” Their carriers look like high-end gym bags or designer totes, designed to blend into a human environment while providing a cozy interior for the pet. They lean heavily into soft-sided polyester and mesh construction. This philosophy assumes that the dog is a constant companion who needs to be carried comfortably over the shoulder.
Petmate, conversely, is rooted in the “kennel” philosophy. They pioneered the plastic pet carrier decades ago, focusing on the “den” instinct of dogs. Their products are utilitarian and focused on maximum protection. When you look at a Petmate carrier, you aren’t looking at a fashion statement; you are looking at a piece of safety equipment. This brand is the go-to for owners who prioritize a rigid structure that won’t collapse if another bag bumps into it.
Build Quality and Durability
The materials used by these two brands couldn’t be more different. Petmate uses heavy-duty, eco-friendly plastic shells held together by metal bolts or high-tension latches. These carriers can last for a decade or more, surviving drops, tosses into trunks, and aggressive chewers. If your small dog has a habit of “digging” or “nesting” aggressively, Petmate’s hard floor is much more resilient.
Bergan utilizes reinforced mesh and high-denier polyester. While the stitching is generally high-quality, fabric inherently has a shorter lifespan than plastic. Mesh can be snagged by sharp puppy claws, and zippers are always a potential fail point. However, Bergan wins on “give.” If you are trying to squeeze a carrier into a tight space under an airplane seat, Bergan’s soft walls will compress slightly to fit, whereas a Petmate carrier is rigid and unforgiving.
Comparison Table: Bergan vs. Petmate at a Glance
| Product Name | Best For | Price Range | Pros/Cons | Visit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bergan Comfort Carrier | Airline Travel | $40 – $60 | Lightweight / Mesh can rip | |
| Petmate Pet Porter | Hard-Sided Security | $35 – $55 | Very durable / Bulky to carry | |
| Petmate Vari Kennel | Car & Crate Training | $50 – $85 | IATA Compliant / Heavy | |
| Amazon Basics Two-Door Kennel | Budget Convenience | $25 – $40 | Top-load access / Plastic latches |
Top Models for Small Breeds (Under 15 lbs)
Bergan Comfort Carrier
The Bergan Comfort Carrier is arguably the gold standard for soft-sided travel. It is designed to be unobtrusive and highly functional. One of the standout features is the “Pet Connect” zipper opening on the side, which allows you to reach in and pet your dog without opening the main door—a lifesaver for nervous pets in mid-flight. I have found the fleece bed insert to be surprisingly plush, providing a sense of luxury that plastic crates simply can’t match.
We’ve compared similar setups in our Bergan vs Sherpa for small breeds breakdown, and Bergan often wins on the sheer amount of ventilation mesh provided. The airflow is exceptional, which is critical for breeds like Pugs or French Bulldogs who can struggle with overheating. However, the lack of a rigid frame means that if you have a heavier dog at the 15-pound limit, the bottom might sag slightly when you carry it by the shoulder strap.
The Good
- Excellent 360-degree ventilation to keep pets cool.
- The Pet Connect feature allows for easy comforting during travel.
- Washable fleece liner makes cleaning up minor accidents simple.
- Fits comfortably under most major airline seats due to its flexible frame.
The Bad
- The mesh is not “chew-proof” and can be destroyed by a determined puppy.
- Zippers can become finicky or split if the carrier is overstuffed.
- Limited “crush protection” compared to hard-sided models.
Our Take: Best for calm small breeds and frequent flyers who need a lightweight, airline-compliant option. Skip if your dog is an aggressive chewer or a “scratcher” who attacks mesh.
Petmate Pet Porter
The Petmate Pet Porter is the quintessential plastic carrier. It’s the workhorse of the pet world. For small breeds under 15 lbs, the 19-inch or 21-inch models provide a secure, cave-like environment. The side vents are made of plastic or wire, depending on the specific sub-model, ensuring your dog can see out without feeling exposed.
In my experience, the Pet Porter is the best choice for car safety. It can be easily secured with a seatbelt through the handle or around the base, and the rigid shell provides a buffer in case of sudden stops. It doesn’t have the “style” of the Bergan, but it makes up for it in utility. You can hose it down in the backyard if your dog gets car sick, which is a major advantage over fabric carriers that might retain odors even after a wash.
The Good
- Incredible durability; these often last through multiple pets.
- Simple, secure latching mechanism that is hard for dogs to manipulate.
- Easy to clean with just soap and water.
- Provides a dark, quiet environment that helps many dogs sleep during travel.
The Bad
- Very bulky to carry through an airport; there is no shoulder strap.
- Hard floors require an additional bed or towel for comfort.
- Plastic nuts and bolts can vibrate loose over time if not checked regularly.
Our Take: Best for road trips, car safety, and dogs who feel more secure in a solid “den.” Skip if you need to carry your pet long distances by hand or need to fit under an airplane seat.
Petmate Vari Kennel
The Vari Kennel is essentially the “pro” version of the Pet Porter. It is often cited as the standard for international travel because it meets or exceeds most IATA requirements. For small breeds, it offers a slightly more reinforced structure and metal side vents rather than plastic ones. This makes it a superior choice for dogs who might try to chew their way out of a plastic vent.
I’ve found that the Vari Kennel works exceptionally well as a secondary sleeping crate at home. Because it’s so sturdy, small dogs feel very safe inside. The tie-down holes are a great touch for securing the kennel in the bed of a truck or the back of an SUV. It’s less “friendly” looking than a Bergan, but it is the tank of the small carrier world.
The Good
- Strong metal hardware and vents for maximum security.
- Stackable design is great for households with multiple small pets.
- Widely accepted by almost all domestic and international airlines.
- Excellent for crate training puppies who are still in the “chewing” phase.
The Bad
- The weight—it is significantly heavier than soft-sided options.
- Aesthetic is very industrial/utilitarian.
- Assembly required (though it is straightforward).
Our Take: Best for high-security needs, international travel, and multi-purpose use as a home crate. Skip if you want something lightweight and “cute” for casual outings.
Amazon Basics Two-Door Kennel
While not a Petmate or Bergan brand, this carrier is a significant competitor in the small breed space. Its main draw is the top-loading door. If you have a cat or a small dog that “braces” their legs against the door of a front-loading carrier, you know the struggle. Dropping them in from the top is a total relief.
The build quality is decent for the price, though the plastic feels slightly thinner than Petmate’s premium models. It’s a hybrid of sorts—it offers the security of plastic but the convenience of top-access usually found in soft carriers. For short trips to the groomer, this is a very practical choice.
The Good
- Top-loading door makes loading “reluctant” dogs much easier.
- Very affordable compared to name-brand alternatives.
- Good ventilation on all sides.
The Bad
- Plastic latches on the top door feel less secure than metal ones.
- Not always approved for airline travel due to the top door design.
- Handle can feel a bit flimsy when carrying a dog near the weight limit.
Our Take: Best for budget-conscious owners and dogs who are difficult to load into front-facing doors. Skip if you need a high-security carrier for long-distance flight travel.
What Real Users Are Saying (Reddit Insights)
General Sentiment
On subreddits like r/dogs and r/travelwithpets, the consensus is clear: Bergan is the “commuter’s choice” while Petmate is the “traveler’s choice.” Users generally praise Bergan for its “stylish look” and how it doesn’t look like a crate when you’re sitting in a coffee shop or airport lounge. Petmate, however, is frequently recommended for anyone doing a cross-country move or shipping a pet. The sentiment is that while Bergan is more comfortable for the human, Petmate is often more protective for the dog.
Top Complaints & Warnings
The most common complaint regarding Bergan involves the mesh.
“My Chihuahua isn’t even a big chewer, but one panicked moment in the car and she had a hole in the Bergan mesh within minutes.” — Reddit user
Amazon reviewers also frequently mention that the Bergan zippers can “self-correct” (open up) if the dog pushes against them hard enough. For Petmate, the most frequent complaint is the “bulk factor.”
“I love how safe the Petmate feels, but trying to navigate a narrow airplane aisle with it is a nightmare. It bangs against every seat.” — Amazon verified purchase
Users also warn that the plastic wing nuts on newer Petmate models can sometimes strip if over-tightened.
Budget Tips & Value Picks
The community often suggests that if you are on a budget, the Amazon Basics model is a “Petmate Lite” that does the job for 60% of the cost. However, for those looking for long-term value, Reddit users almost always point toward the Petmate Vari Kennel as the best investment because it rarely breaks and retains its resale value well on local marketplaces.
Travel Considerations for Small Breeds
Airline Compliance: Soft vs. Hard Carriers
When flying, the carrier must fit under the seat in front of you. Most airlines have a height limit of 8 to 11 inches for hard-sided carriers. Because the Petmate carriers are rigid, if they are half an inch too tall, they simply won’t fit. Bergan carriers have a “spring-frame” or flexible ceiling that allows them to compress. This makes Bergan the safer bet for avoiding a “denied boarding” situation at the gate. If you are exploring more options, our best dog carriers for small breeds guide covers airline-specific dimensions in more detail.
Safety in the Car
In a car, a soft-sided carrier acts more like a pillow, while a hard-sided carrier acts like a roll cage. Neither Bergan nor Petmate (in their standard versions) are officially “crash-tested” to the highest standards like Sleepypod, but Petmate is generally considered safer in a collision because the plastic shell prevents external objects from intruding into the pet’s space. If you do use a Bergan in the car, make sure to loop the seatbelt through the designated luggage/seatbelt straps to prevent the carrier from becoming a projectile.
Best Dog Carriers by Segment
Best for Anxious Small Breeds
The **Petmate Pet Porter** is the winner here. The solid walls provide a visual barrier, reducing the “stimulus overload” that often happens in busy environments. By covering the side vents with a light towel, you can create a dark, soothing environment that helps an anxious dog settle into a nap.
Best for Airline Travel
The **Bergan Comfort Carrier** takes this category easily. Its lightweight design, comfortable shoulder strap, and ability to “squish” slightly under airline seats make it the most practical choice for navigating terminals. The mesh windows also allow you to keep an eye on your dog’s breathing and stress levels at all times.
Best for Car Safety
The **Petmate Vari Kennel** is the most rugged of the group. Its reinforced structure and metal bolts provide the best defense against the bumps and jars of a long road trip. It is essentially a piece of luggage designed to protect its contents at all costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Bergan soft carrier safer than a Petmate hard carrier for car travel?
Generally, no. For car travel, a hard-sided carrier like the Petmate Pet Porter is safer because it provides a rigid shell that protects the dog from being crushed by other luggage or debris in an accident. While Bergan carriers have seatbelt loops, they are made of fabric and mesh, which can collapse under heavy impact. If car safety is your primary concern, go with a hard-sided Petmate model.
Which Petmate carrier size is best for a 10 lb Chihuahua?
For a 10 lb Chihuahua, the 19-inch or 21-inch Petmate Pet Porter is usually ideal. It provides enough room for the dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably without being so large that they slide around during transit. Always measure your dog’s height from floor to top of head and length from nose to base of tail to ensure a perfect fit before purchasing.
Are Bergan carriers truly airline approved for under-seat storage?
Most Bergan Comfort Carriers are labeled as “airline compliant,” but this depends on the specific airline’s under-seat dimensions. Because Bergan carriers are soft-sided, they can slightly compress to fit into tighter spaces, making them more likely to be accepted than rigid Petmate crates. However, you should always check your specific airline’s current regulations for dog products and travel dimensions before heading to the airport.
Can small breeds chew through the mesh on Bergan carriers?
Yes, a determined small dog can chew or claw through the mesh on a Bergan carrier. While the mesh is reinforced, it is still a fabric material. If your dog has separation anxiety or is a known “chewer,” they can create a hole in minutes. In these cases, a hard-sided Petmate Vari Kennel with metal vents is a much safer and more durable alternative.
What is the weight limit for the Petmate Pet Porter Traditional model?
The smallest Petmate Pet Porter models are typically rated for pets up to 10 or 15 pounds. However, the weight limit is less important than the physical dimensions of the dog. A “leggy” 12-pound dog might need a larger size than a “stocky” 15-pound dog. Always prioritize the interior height and length measurements over the weight rating to ensure your dog’s comfort.
How do I clean a Petmate plastic carrier vs. a Bergan fabric carrier?
Cleaning a Petmate is easy: simply disassemble the top and bottom and spray it with a mild soap or pet-safe disinfectant. It can even be hosed off in the yard. For a Bergan, you usually need to remove the internal fleece bed (which is machine washable) and then hand-wipe the polyester exterior. It takes longer to dry and can be harder to remove deep-set odors compared to plastic.
Other Notable Alternatives Worth Considering
If neither Bergan nor Petmate feels like the right fit, you might consider the **Sherpa Original Deluxe**. It is very similar to Bergan but often features a slightly more rigid internal frame. Another option is the **Sleepypod Atom**, which is much more expensive but is one of the few soft-sided carriers that has undergone rigorous crash testing. For those who want the absolute best in hard-sided security, the **Gunner G1 Small** is a heavy-duty option, though it is significantly heavier and more expensive than the Petmate line.
Conclusion: Which Brand Wins for Your Small Dog?
The winner of the Bergan vs. Petmate debate depends entirely on your travel habits. If your life involves hopping on planes, navigating city streets, and wanting your dog to feel like a VIP, the **Bergan Comfort Carrier** is your best bet. Its comfort, airflow, and owner-friendly features like the shoulder strap make it a pleasure to use for short-to-medium trips.
However, if you prioritize safety above all else, or if your dog is a “destroyer” of soft materials, the **Petmate Pet Porter** or **Vari Kennel** is the superior choice. These carriers offer a level of security and longevity that Bergan simply cannot match. They are the “forever” carriers that will stay in your garage for a decade, ready for every vet visit and road trip.
Before you make your final choice, consider your dog’s personality. A shy dog will love the privacy of a Petmate, while a curious dog will thrive in the open mesh of a Bergan. No matter which you choose, ensuring your pet is crate-trained before the big trip is the real secret to a happy journey. For more advice on picking the right gear, check out our guide to the best dog carriers for small breeds.
Some links below are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission if you make a purchase.
Affiliate disclosure: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission if you make a purchase.