ProView – Thule Allax Dog Crate

The Thule Allax dog crate is a higher end option for those pet owners who are looking to invest in gear that is durable and going to last. This crate has been a huge step up to the cheap alternatives I’ve used in the past which rattled around, and provided much less comfort and safety to my pup, Roxie. I highly recommend this crate to all the pet-owner’s who want to prioritize their pet’s safety and quality, long-lasting gear.

We first tested the Allax by taking our 40lb pup Roxie on a day trip to an alpine lake for an afternoon of hiking, fishing, and paddle boarding. The drive up involved bumpy gravel roads and we were impressed by the lack of rattling on the way up, compared to our previous dog crates. When we reached the trailhead, the door on the crate made it easy to pop open and let Roxie hop right out, she was eager to get started on our hike. We have a medium sized crate and with all the gear we had packed we adjusted the crate to the smaller size to make room. This still gave her plenty of space, and fit snugly into the back of my Subaru Outback with the seats up. Initially, we noticed that Roxie was sliding around a bit, but after we laid a blanket down she seemed comfortable and stable the remainder of the ride. Roxie had plenty of space to stretch out. The large front window and openings of the Allax made it easy for us to check on her the whole ride. When we got home, the smoothness and material of the crate made it easy to wipe down so it looked good as new.

Performance

The Allax Dog Crate is a great option for dog owners who are looking for a combination of safety, functionality, and aesthetics. First, the adjustable sides are a standout feature. You can customize the length of the crate with the sliding sides which makes it ideal for a variety of vehicle types and sizes of dogs. We’ve found this feature to be valuable on longer trips when we extended it, allowing Roxie to have more room to move around. Secondly, this crate’s modern look makes it much more visually appealing than the typical dog crates on the market. We’ve found that the smooth metal floor can be a bit slippery for Roxie, and would recommend either laying a blanket down or investing in the Thule dog mat to counteract that. The front door on the Allax has a gentle open and close, and the rear escape hatch allows access from the backseat.

It’s important to note that the Allax is on the heavier side which adds to its durability and protection considerations. It hasn’t rattled around like other dog crates we’ve had, no matter what terrain we’re driving on. If you’re not frequently moving it from car to car, the weight of this crate shouldn’t be a problem. If portability is high on your list of priorities however, the weight may be a consideration. After several weekend trips and frequent day-to-day use it has not shown any signs of wear and tear, and is easy to clean off after a muddy weekend. Overall, it’s a sleek, durable, and safe option for any adventure pup.

What sets the product apart? 

One of the factors that makes the Allax unique is its safety features. We were impressed by reading about its design to “crumple” in the event of a crash, and the posterior escape hatch that would allow for easier exit in that event. The crates have been rigorously tested in crash scenarios, which gives me more confidence she will be okay in a crash as compared to the other crates I’ve used in the past.

Who is the product for?

The Allax is perfect for adventure-seekers who frequently take their furry friends along. It’s great for those who want a heavy duty and secure crate that handles rougher terrain. While its sturdiness makes it less ideal for frequent in-and-out use, it’s a good option for those who prioritize long-lasting durability and protection. Unlike other basic plastic crates, this crate is a higher end option that offers function and aesthetics for those looking to invest in premium pet gear.

Friendliness to the Earth 

The Allax aligns with Thule’s general commitment to sustainability by using durable, long-lasting materials, reducing the need for frequent replacements. The durable design and materials in the Allax gives me confidence that it can withstand use over time, and will prevent me from having to repurchase cheaply made alternatives.

The Final Word

The Thule Allax dog crate is a great choice for pet owners who are looking to invest in a quality crate that is functional, sleek, and durable. While there are plenty of cheap alternatives on the market, I strongly feel that the safety element of this crate, functionality features, and durability are worth the additional cost. Rather than having to throw out rattling crates after a year or two that won’t protect your pet in event of a crash, why not invest in one that is going to provide protection and to withstand over time.

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