Can anyone give me advice on the best type of crate/carrier for the car to take the small dog we're getting shortly with us on outings, visiting friends etc. ? The canvas ones loook attractive and less bulky than all-metal crates, though I wonder whether ventilation is sufficient when closed up.  I also like the general idea of him having his own little 'house' within our home.
Never used a crate of any sort before.  Grateful for opinions on this.  Thanks.

If you intend to use the crate in the car I wouldn't use a soft crate. They aren't sturdy enough. If the dog is a digger, again I wouldn't use the soft crate. They dig their way out of them very quickly ;) If, on the other hand, you only intend to use it as a sleeping area then the soft crate is fine. I use one and the dogs love it. I haven't used a plastic one so can't comment on these, though they are very sturdy. I do use metal collapsible ones. These are heavy, but don't take up much room when they are collapsed. Great when there is a bitch in season in the house, and an entire dog :D ;) My dogs go in them of their own accord, as to them this is their own private area. They are left alone to sleep when they are in there. :)

Also a metal crate for a small dog isn't that heavy.

That's true. I keep forgetting that I have large crates for large dogs :D

Thanks - possiby best to have soft one for house & leave metal one in car then.  Will search the 'net for best prices.

The metal ones rattle a lot in the car - doesn't bother me but drives my OH up the wall!!!

Have a look at the Croft online catalouge, they do a range of both.