What’s in This Article
- Quick Answer: Will a Crate Fit in a 2019 RAV4?
- Measure Your 2019 RAV4 Cargo Area Before Buying a Crate
- How the Rear-Seat Angle Affects Crate Fit and Hatch Closure
- Which Dog Crate Sizes Usually Fit a 2019 RAV4?
- Two-Crate Setups for a RAV4
- RAV4 Crate Placement Options That Help the Hatch Close
- How to Secure the Crate With Straps, Anchors, and Crash-Tested Options
- DIY Cargo Liners and Simple Mods to Stop Slipping
- Comfort, Airflow, and Temperature Control for Your Dog
- Troubleshooting Common Fit Problems Before a Trip
- When to Get Professional Help With Crate Fit or Safety
- Frequently Asked Questions
A dog crate can fit a 2019 Toyota RAV4, but a few inches can decide whether the hatch closes. The rear seat angle, wheel wells, crate height, and door style all affect the final fit. Use this guide to measure your cargo area, choose a safer crate size, secure it well, and keep your dog comfortable on the road.
Quick Answer: Will a Crate Fit in a 2019 RAV4?
Yes, a dog crate can fit in a 2019 RAV4 if you choose the right size and check the hatch before you drive. Toyota specification data lists about 37.6 cubic feet of cargo room behind the second row and about 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded, but cargo volume alone does not prove crate fit.
Measure the crate’s outside length, width, height, door swing, and rear angle. Then test the crate in the cargo area with the rear seats up, the hatch closed, and the crate secured against movement.
Key Takeaways
- Measure the RAV4 cargo area at the exact floor points where the crate will sit.
- Choose an intermediate, medium, or slanted SUV crate before you try a large crate.
- Confirm that the hatch closes without pressing hard against the kennel.
- Secure the crate with rated straps, anchors, or the crate maker’s approved tie-down system.
- Keep vents clear and never rely on remote start while leaving your dog unattended.
Measure Your 2019 RAV4 Cargo Area Before Buying a Crate
Start with three measurements: cargo width, cargo length, and usable height. Measure from the wheel wells, rear seatbacks, cargo floor, and hatch trim because each point can change the usable space.
Published RAV4 dimension guides commonly list about 40 inches of cargo length behind the rear seat, 39.4 inches of minimum cargo width, 59 inches of maximum cargo width, and 34.5 to 36.6 inches of cargo height. Treat these as planning figures, not a promise that every crate will fit.
| Measurement Point | Planning Guidance |
|---|---|
| Width at wheel wells | Measure the narrowest floor width before buying |
| Depth from hatch to seats | Check with seats up and seatbacks locked |
| Height near hatch opening | Measure where the crate roof will pass under trim |
| Rear-seat slant | Match the crate angle or choose a slanted SUV crate |
Record the crate’s outside dimensions, not only the inside space for your dog. Door hardware, handles, double-door frames, and tie-down brackets can add enough size to block the hatch.
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How the Rear-Seat Angle Affects Crate Fit and Hatch Closure
The RAV4 rear seatbacks slope toward the hatch, so a square crate can hit the hatch before it sits flat. A slanted SUV crate can use that angle better and leave more room for the hatch seal.
Align the crate to the RAV4’s sloped seatbacks or use a slanted model to protect hatch clearance and airflow.
- Check whether the crate’s rear face follows the seatback slope.
- Move the crate forward or back in small steps before you change sizes.
- Secure the crate after you find the best position, not before.
Do not force the hatch closed against a crate. Pressure on the hatch, trim, or latch can damage the vehicle and reduce airflow around your dog.
Which Dog Crate Sizes Usually Fit a 2019 RAV4?
Intermediate and medium SUV-style crates usually give you the best chance of a clean fit with the rear seats up. Large crates may fit only with careful placement, a slanted back, or folded seats.
RuffLand describes its SlantBack design as an angled back end made to fit against canted second-row SUV seats. That design can help in a RAV4, but you still need to compare the exact exterior dimensions with your own cargo measurements.
For side-by-side setups, keep both crates conservative in width. Two crates need enough space for doors, airflow, tie-downs, and hatch clearance.
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Two-Crate Setups for a RAV4
When you fit two crates in a RAV4, focus on secure restraint, clear sightlines, and a hatch that closes without force. The simplest layout uses two medium or intermediate SUV crates side by side in the cargo area.
Prioritize secure restraint, clear sightlines, and hatch clearance before you choose a two-crate layout.
- Use side-by-side placement only after both crates sit flat and stable.
- Try one crate in cargo and one secured in the passenger area if cargo space feels tight.
- Avoid tall or wide crates that block your rear view or press against the hatch glass.
Test both crates with the dogs out first. Then add bedding, water bowls, cooling pads, and straps because those items can change fit.
RAV4 Crate Placement Options That Help the Hatch Close
Most RAV4 crate layouts use one of three placements: straight, sideways, or slanted. Straight placement works best with compact crates, while sideways or slanted placement can help larger crates clear the hatch.
Pro tip: Close the hatch slowly the first time and keep one hand near the crate so you can feel contact before it becomes pressure.
- Use straight placement when the crate length clears the hatch easily.
- Use sideways placement when width gives you more usable space than depth.
- Use slanted placement when the crate needs to match the rear-seat angle.
Keep the crate door easy to open in an emergency. A layout that blocks the door may look neat, but it can slow you down when your dog needs help.
How to Secure the Crate With Straps, Anchors, and Crash-Tested Options
A loose crate can become a dangerous projectile during hard braking or a crash. Choose a crate with current third-party crash-test certification when safety matters most, and follow the maker’s tie-down instructions.
The Center for Pet Safety independently tests and certifies some pet travel products. Check the current certification list before you trust a crash-test claim.
Warning: Do not use weak bungee cords as your main restraint because they can stretch, snap, or let the crate shift.
- Place the crate against the rear seatbacks when that position gives firm support.
- Attach rated straps to factory cargo anchors or the crate maker’s approved brackets.
- Tighten straps until the crate cannot slide, lift, or tip during a firm shake test.
- Keep crate vents, doors, and emergency exits clear.
Check strap tension after the first short drive. Vibration can loosen a setup that felt tight in the driveway.
DIY Cargo Liners and Simple Mods to Stop Slipping
A cargo liner protects your RAV4 floor and helps keep the crate from sliding. You can use a fitted cargo mat, a rubber-backed liner, or a trimmed piece of indoor-outdoor carpet.
A 71 by 50 inch carpet piece can work as a starting blank for some setups, but confirm your own cargo shape before cutting. Trim slowly around the wheel wells and hatch area so the liner sits flat.
Cut-To-Fit Cargo Mat
Choose a durable material that gives grip without adding too much height. Measure twice, mark the back side, and cut with a sharp utility knife on a safe surface.
- Measure the floor shape with the seats in your normal travel position.
- Score the cut line before you make the full cut.
- Trim small sections at a time for a snug fit.
A flat liner gives the crate a steadier base and keeps dirt, hair, and scratches off the cargo floor.
Non-Slip Underlays
Add a non-slip underlay beneath the liner if the crate still moves. Rubber mesh and firm foam pads can help grip the floor and reduce crate movement.
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Rubber mesh | Adds grip under the liner |
| Firm foam pads | Reduces small gaps and vibration |
| Cargo liner | Protects the floor |
| Regular cleaning | Keeps grip strong |
Clean the liner and underlay often. Dust, hair, and moisture can reduce grip over time.
Comfort, Airflow, and Temperature Control for Your Dog
Crate fit matters, but your dog also needs airflow and safe cabin temperature. Position the crate so it does not block vents, rear airflow paths, or the crate’s own ventilation openings.
Use window vent shades only when you can keep the vehicle secure and monitor your dog. A pet-rated cooling pad can help on warm trips, but it should not replace active cooling and supervision.
Note: Remote start can pre-cool the cabin while you stay present, but it should not make you leave your dog alone in a parked vehicle.
- Check that air can reach every side of the crate.
- Use a pet-safe cooling pad that cannot bunch under your dog.
- Bring water and plan breaks during longer drives.
- Never leave your dog unattended in a parked RAV4.
The American Veterinary Medical Association warns that parked vehicles can become dangerous for pets because temperatures can change quickly. Local laws on unattended pets and idling can also vary.
Troubleshooting Common Fit Problems Before a Trip
Walk around the RAV4 before each trip and test the full setup. Check cargo width, wheel-well clearance, hatch swing, straps, door access, and airflow.
- If the hatch touches the crate, slide the crate forward or try a slanted SUV crate.
- If the crate rocks, add a non-slip underlay and retighten the straps.
- If two crates feel tight, move one secured crate to the passenger area.
- If the crate blocks your view, choose a shorter crate or change the layout.
- If the dog looks cramped, choose a safer dog fit instead of forcing the vehicle fit.
Run a short local test drive before a long trip. Listen for movement and check the crate again when you stop.
When to Get Professional Help With Crate Fit or Safety
Ask a veterinarian, trainer, or crate dealer for help if your dog sits hunched, cannot turn, or shows stress in the crate. A crate that fits the vehicle but not your dog can create health and comfort problems.
Ask an automotive professional for help if you feel unsure about cargo anchors, straps, hatch contact, or blocked visibility. Do not drill, bolt, or modify vehicle trim unless a qualified installer confirms the method will not damage safety systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you secure a dog crate in the cargo area of an SUV?
Place the crate flat against the rear seatbacks when possible. Use rated straps, factory cargo anchors, or the crate maker’s approved tie-down kit so the crate cannot slide or tip.
How long is the cargo area in a 2019 Toyota RAV4?
Published dimension guides commonly list about 40 inches of cargo length behind the rear seat. Measure your own RAV4 before buying a crate because mats, trim, seat angle, and hatch shape can change usable space.
Where is the safest place to put a dog crate in a car?
For many SUVs, the cargo area with the rear seats up gives the crate a stable place to sit. Use a properly sized, secured, crash-tested crate when possible, and keep airflow and visibility clear.
Can you fit two dog crates in a 2019 RAV4?
You may fit two medium or intermediate crates if their outside dimensions match your cargo measurements. Test side-by-side placement, hatch closure, strap access, and ventilation before you travel.
Safety Disclaimer: This article gives general pet travel and vehicle-fit information. It does not replace advice from a veterinarian, certified trainer, crate maker, or qualified vehicle professional. Always choose a crate that fits your dog first and install it according to the manufacturer’s safety instructions.
Conclusion
A dog crate can fit a 2019 RAV4 when you measure carefully, choose a realistic size, and secure the crate before every drive. Start with an intermediate, medium, or slanted SUV crate, then test the hatch, straps, airflow, and door access.
Do not trade safety for a tighter fit. A well-measured and well-secured setup helps your dog ride with more comfort and gives you more confidence on the road.
References
- 2019 RAV4 & RAV4 Hybrid Specifications — Toyota Canada, 2019
- Toyota RAV4 Dimensions — Andy Mohr Toyota
- CPS Certified Products — Center for Pet Safety
- Pet Safety in Vehicles — American Veterinary Medical Association
- Intermediate Kennel and SlantBack Design — RuffLand Kennels
