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Petmate’s plastic kennels are some of the most common dog crates in the US, but the brand sells two lines that look very similar: the Sky Kennel and the Vari Kennel. If you are planning to fly with your dog, or just want a sturdy crate for the car and home, it’s worth knowing the difference. This Sky Kennel vs Vari Kennel comparison explains how they differ and which one you actually need.
Our Quick Picks
- Best for Air TravelPetmate Sky Kennel (28-Inch)Check Price on Amazon
- Best for Car and HomePetmate Vari Kennel (28-Inch)Check Price on Amazon
Short on time? These are our top choices. Full reviews and comparisons are below.
Sky Kennel vs Vari Kennel at a Glance
| Petmate Sky Kennel | Petmate Vari Kennel | |
|---|---|---|
| Designed for | Air travel in the cargo hold | Car travel and home use |
| Airline rules | Built with airline cargo requirements in mind | Not all versions meet airline cargo rules |
| Hardware | Heavy-duty door and fasteners | Sturdy, with simpler fasteners on many models |
| Ventilation | Vents on all four sides | Good ventilation, varies by model |
| Extras | Travel extras such as labels and bowls | Typically the crate only |
| Price level | Higher | Lower |
| Best for | Flying with a dog in cargo | Road trips, vet visits, home crate |
Air Travel
This is the key difference. The Sky Kennel is Petmate’s airline-focused kennel: it is built with airline cargo requirements in mind, with a sturdy door, secure fastening hardware and ventilation on all four sides, and it includes travel extras such as live-animal labels. The Vari Kennel is aimed at everyday use, and not every version meets airline cargo rules. If you plan to fly your dog in the hold, choose a kennel the airline accepts, which usually means the Sky Kennel, and always check your airline’s current requirements. Many US airlines restrict pets in cargo, so confirm availability first; see our airline approved dog carriers guide.
Car and Home Use
For road trips, vet visits and as a den at home, the Vari Kennel is all most dogs need. Its enclosed plastic shell feels cozy, protects better than wire in a car, and is easy to clean. The Sky Kennel works just as well for these uses but costs more, so it only makes sense if you’ll also fly with it. Secure either kennel in the car so it can’t slide; the cargo area or the floor behind the front seats is usually safest.
Build and Cleaning
Both use durable plastic shells with a metal wire door and come apart for cleaning and storage. The Sky Kennel’s hardware is heavier-duty, which is part of what makes it suitable for air travel. Both wipe clean with warm, soapy water after accidents.
Who Should Buy Which
| Choose the Sky Kennel if… | Choose the Vari Kennel if… |
|---|---|
| You will fly with your dog in cargo | You only drive with your dog |
| You want the sturdiest hardware | You want a lower price |
| You want travel extras included | You want a cozy crate for home |
| You move internationally with pets | You need a vet-visit crate |
Size either kennel so your dog can stand, turn around and lie down comfortably; our dog crate size chart can help.
The Two Kennels
1. Petmate Sky Kennel (28-Inch) — Best for Air Travel
Built with airline cargo in mind, with a heavy-duty door, secure hardware, ventilation on all sides and travel extras. The 28-inch size suits dogs of about 15 to 30 pounds; other sizes are available.
- Designed for air travel
- Heavy-duty hardware
- Ventilation on all four sides
- Travel extras included
Worth knowing: Confirm your airline’s current rules and cargo availability before booking.
2. Petmate Vari Kennel (28-Inch) — Best for Car and Home
A sturdy, affordable plastic kennel for car trips, vet visits and a den at home. It’s our car travel pick in the best dog crates guide.
- Affordable
- Cozy, enclosed feel
- Great for car travel
- Easy to clean
Worth knowing: Not every version meets airline cargo rules.
Our Verdict
In the Sky Kennel vs Vari Kennel comparison, buy the Sky Kennel if you will fly with your dog in the cargo hold, and the Vari Kennel if you just need a sturdy crate for the car and home. Both are well made; the difference is air travel. For small dogs that fly in the cabin, see Sleepypod vs Sherpa.
Preparing a Kennel for a Flight
- Get your dog used to the kennel weeks before travel, with meals and naps inside.
- Attach food and water dishes to the door so staff can refill them without opening it.
- Line the floor with an absorbent pad and a familiar-smelling blanket.
- Label the kennel with your name, phone number and destination.
- Zip-tie the door as an extra precaution if your airline allows it.
- Ask your vet whether your dog is fit to fly, especially for flat-faced breeds, seniors and anxious dogs.
Related Guides
- Plastic Dog Crate Sizes Chart: Vari Kennel & Sky Kennel Dimensions
- 5 Best Dog Crates in 2026: Wire, Plastic, Soft-Sided, and Modular Picks Compared
- 5 Best Airline Approved Dog Carriers for In-Cabin and Cargo Travel
- Dog Crate Size Chart by Breed & Weight (Plus How to Measure)
- 5 Best Dog Crates for Large Dogs (70 to 110+ lbs)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Sky Kennel and Vari Kennel?
The Sky Kennel is built for air travel with heavier hardware and travel extras, while the Vari Kennel is designed for car and home use and costs less.
Is the Vari Kennel airline approved?
Not all versions meet airline cargo rules. If you plan to fly, choose a kennel your airline accepts and check its current requirements.
Can I use a Sky Kennel as a home crate?
Yes. It works well at home and in the car; it just costs more than a Vari Kennel.
What size kennel does my dog need?
Your dog should be able to stand, turn around and lie down naturally. Measure your dog and compare with the kennel’s interior dimensions.
Is a plastic kennel better than a wire crate?
Plastic kennels feel cozier and are better for travel, while wire crates offer more airflow and visibility at home.