Dogs are known for being loyal companions, and they can be a great addition to any family. But when you have a dog, you also have the added responsibility of making sure your pet is safe and secure.
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If you’re like most people, you probably take your dog with you on road trips and outings. But what do you do when you need to leave your dog in the car? A truck bed dog kennel is the perfect solution, letting your pooch travel with ease while keeping them safe and secure.
There are many different kennels to choose from, so how do you know which one is right for you? Do you buy a metal wire or plastic panel bed dog kennel? What about comfort and security?
If you’re looking for the best dog kennels to fit your pickup truck, read on to see my top 6 choices and find out everything you need to know before buying one.
Best Truck Bed Kennels: Our Top 3 Picks!
Last update on 2024-09-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What Are The Different Types Of Truck Bed Kennels?
Metal Wire
These are typically the cheapest and most popular type of kennel. They’re made from metal wires that form a rectangular or square shape, and they can be easily folded up for transport.
However, they are not as escape-proof as the other two basic types of truck bed containers. They are therefore not recommended for Houdini-like dogs!
Even though they are popular, they don’t offer much protection in the case of a collision or shield your dog from the elements.
Metal Panel
For owners who wish to have their dog ride in the truck’s bed, metal panel crates are the best choice.
Although the metal panels won’t offer complete protection, they provide greater protection than either metal wire crates or plastic panel crates. They are also moderately effective in protecting your dog from the elements.
However, metal crates can be heavy so it is best to have a friend help out. These crates can also be quite costly in comparison.
Plastic Panel
Plastic panel crates are the lightest and most affordable type of kennel. They’re made of hard plastic panels that form a rectangular or square shape.
They are very easy to fold up and transport, but they offer very little protection in the event of an accident. However, they do offer protection from the elements.
They are best for dogs who are prone to escaping.
Related Article: Best Indestructible Dog Beds. Check out our recommendations and know why do dogs rip their beds.
Things To Consider Before Buying A Dog Crate For Truck Bed
Size – Consider The Size Of Your Dog
- Before you buy a truck bed dog kennel, you need to measure your dog and make sure you get a crate that is the right size. You don’t want them to be too cramped or too loose in the kennel.
- If your dog is a big breed, you will need a larger kennel that can accommodate their size.
Insulation
- Look for a kennel that is constructed to protect from the elements.
- When your pickup truck is traveling at high speeds, you don’t want to risk your dog overheating or freezing during extreme weather conditions.
- If you live in an area where it snows, look for a kennel made of insulating material with ventilation holes. This will help keep your dog warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Comfort – Consider The Padding, Design, And Comfort
- Your dog should be comfortable in its kennel. Make sure to choose a crate with plenty of padding and a design that is comfortable for your pet.
- Some crates have built-in comfort features, such as water bowls and bedding, that make it easier for your dog to relax. Consider also getting a travel dog bed for car.
- The design of the kennel is also important. If your dog likes to curl up, you can get a kennel with a curved design.
Portability
- Consider how easy it is to carry the kennel.
- Since you’ll be carrying your dog’s kennel in and out of the pickup truck, look for a lightweight design that is easy to manage.
- It should also have an effective handle for lifting.
- Ease of use – look for a kennel that is easy to set up and quick to fold up.
Security
- Crates with doors that are latched closed will provide the most security.
- Metal wire crates typically do not have attached lids, so you’ll need to buy something to fasten it down if you want an additional layer of security.
- If your dog is a Houdini, look for a kennel that comes with locks or has a door that locks with a key.
- If you don’t want to deal with keys, you can also look for a kennel with double-sided zippers. These types of zippers allow the owner to latch the kennel from both ends, making it more difficult for your dog to escape.
Quality & Durability – Consider The Quality Of Material
- You should always look for a kennel that is made from high-quality materials.
- For example, you want to avoid crates with bent or loose wires, thin panes of plastic, and flimsy locks. You don’t want to put your dog in a crate that could collapse on top of them while you’re driving.
- Quality materials such as steel and aluminum will ensure your kennel lasts for years.
Read More: Does your dog suddenly lick his bed? Read possible reasons why dog licking bed.
6 Best Truck Bed Dog Kennels
MidWest Homes For Pets iCrate – Best Seller
The MidWest iCrate is the ideal crate to keep your pet safe while you’re on the road. The crate was designed to ensure your pet’s safety. This crate is durable and provides a comfortable environment for your dog while you’re away.
The sturdy slide bolt latch secures the dog crate door and keeps your dog safe. It is easy to assemble and folds flat for storage and travel – perfect for smaller spaces.
Its roller feet are great for hardwood floors, and allow you to easily reposition the crate where suited. You can rest assured that your pet will be safe and happy in their new home with the Midwest quality guarantee 1 Year Warranty.
MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate – Best Seller – Best Features
- Heavy-duty slide-bolt latches – pets cannot open their own kennel
- Easy assembly and portable design – can be set up in seconds
- Foldable & Sturdy – high-quality material built for years of use
- Roller feet protect floors – won’t damage your truck
- 1-year warranty – ensure quality and safety
- Removable, washable bed cover
- Free divider panel for puppies
- Newly enhanced with added security features to keep your pet safe | Slide-bolt door latch now feature patented Paw Block and...
- iCrate single door dog crate measures 30L x 19 x 21 inches and is suitable for medium dog breeds with an adult weight of 25...
- Dog crate includes a divider panel, durable & leak-proof plastic pan, protective rubber feet, carrying handle, and customer...
Last update on 2024-09-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate – Best Seller – Pros and Cons
Pros:
- No tools needed for assembly – sets up in seconds with no tools required
- Convenient storage and travel – folds down to a small size
- Secure slide bolt latch – your pet cannot escape
- Heavy-duty construction for years of use
Cons:
- It may be too big for some smaller cars or trucks
Bushwhacker – K9 Canopy w/ Pad And Tether For Truck Bed
The Bushwhacker K9 Canopy is a truck bed canopy that attaches to the truck bed with four straps and gutter hooks. The canopy has grey fabric that reflects sunlight, making it cool for your dog.
The canopy is also made with tear-resistant mesh and includes a half-inch pad made from closed cell foam that you can hose off without problems of wear and tear.
The Bushwhacker K9 can be used for a variety of outdoor trips or any other time your dog needs shade and a comfortable bed.
Bushwhacker – K9 Canopy w/ Pad and Tether for Truck Bed – Best Features
- Easy to keep clean and wash down
- Attaches with gutter hooks and four straps – easy to install
- Mesh fabric is tear-resistant – perfect for outdoors
- Includes half-inch pad made from closed cell foam
- Its foldable design makes it easy to store and transport
- The K9 Canopy is constructed with durable 600 denier polyester and tear resistant mesh. The grey fabric reflects rather than...
- Half inch pad uses closed cell foam so you can simply hose it off without worry of corrosion. Adjustable dog tether attaches...
- Canopy assembles in minutes and installation is quick and easy. Secures to your truck bed with four straps and gutter hooks.
Last update on 2024-09-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Bushwhacker – K9 Canopy w/ Pad and Tether for Truck Bed – Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Mesh fabric allows airflow and prevents the build-up of excessive heat
- Non-slip bottom helps keep your pet comfortable and safe
- Mesh fabric is tear-resistant
- Convenient travel – easy to fold up and carry with you on the go
- Easy to install
Cons:
- Not as durable as other models – the mesh can tear if your dog is too rough
Note: This product is currently unavailable, but we like to recommend Petsfit Portable Soft Collapsible Dog Crate as an alternative.
Petmate Two Door Pet Kennel For Pets Up To 15 Pounds
If you prefer a plastic carrier for your dog, the Petmate dog kennel is an excellent choice. This air travel-approved kennel is designed to protect your dog with a plastic wire that is created to keep your dog comfortable and safe.
The kennel also has two slide-bolt latches, strong carrying handles, and rubber feet to protect your flooring from scratches.
This carrier is easy to clean with a removable bottom tray and an easy snap-on top cover for quick access in case of emergencies
It can be quickly set up because it is portable. The latches are easy to open, so you won’t have any problems. Its sleek and functional design also protects the dogs from the elements.
Petmate Two Door Pet Kennel for Pets up to 15 Pounds – Best Features
- Air travel-approved kennel – keeps your dog safe and comfortable
- Aerodynamic design – protects the dogs from air pressure changes
- Efficient ventilation system – provides enough airflow to keep your pet cool
- Strong carrying handles & rubber feet protect flooring
- MULTIPLE DOORS OFFER EASY ACCESS: Easy load options make it easy and less stressful for travel or house-training. Suitable...
- AIR TRAVEL APPROVED CARRIER: This small dog crate or cat carrier meets most airline cargo specifications. We provide carriers...
- EASY TO ASSEMBLE, EASY TO CLEAN: No tools required for assembly. A strong wingnut bolt assembly, a sturdy, foldable handle...
Last update on 2024-09-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Petmate Two Door Pet Kennel for Pets up to 15 Pounds – Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Suitable for small breeds and puppies up to 15 pounds
- Its aerodynamic design protects dogs from air pressure changes during long flights
- Convenient – quick and easy to set up and take down when needed
- Easy-to-clean for improved hygiene and health
Cons:
- Too small for larger breeds or dogs that like to move around a lot in their kennel
EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate
The EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate is a portable and comfortable dog crate designed for indoor and outdoor use. This soft-sided crate is made of heavy-duty, water-resistant fabric that is also tear-resistant.
It has three mesh doors for ventilation and easy access, as well as a zippered top for easy access to your dog. The crate includes a water-resistant carrying case and is collapsible for easy storage and transport.
With a washable cover that is easy to remove and a 2-year warranty, it is no wonder that this crate is one of the most popular on the market.
EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate – Best Features
- Heavy-duty, water-resistant fabric is tear-resistant
- 3 mesh doors for ventilation and easy access
- Zippered top for easy access to your dog
- Includes water-resistant carrying case
- Collapsible for easy storage and transport
- Comes with a 2-year warranty
- This 30" soft crate measures 30" long x 21" wide x 24" high, which is 2" wider and 4" higher than most other brand 30" soft...
- The crate frame is constructed from sturdy steel tubing, while the crate cover is made of high-quality, durable 600D fabric...
- SPECIAL FEATURES: The crate features four mesh doors (on the top, front, and two sides) for convenient access and improved...
Last update on 2024-09-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate – Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Quick and easy to put up and down for moving or storage
- Mesh design allows air to flow through better than other models
- Comfortable for dogs – great for long trips
- 2-year warranty allows you to replace it if anything happens with the stitching or zippers
Cons:
- Not suitable for dogs that like to destroy any type of crate
SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels – Best Seller
The SportPet Kennel is a heavy-duty plastic kennel that has a steel frame for added durability. This kennel is available in different sizes to accommodate both small and large breeds.
This kennel is airline travel approved, with removable wheels for easy transport and a secure latch to keep your dog inside. It is easy to clean with a removable bottom tray that can be quickly cleaned if need be.
In addition, the kennel has a top handle for easy transport. Its lightweight and durable design make it perfect for long trips or moving from place-to-place
SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels – Best Features
- Heavy-duty plastic kennel with steel frame
- Available in different sizes to accommodate small and large breeds
- 1-year manufacturer’s warranty
- Top handles for easy transport
- Airline travel approved
- See size chart photo and video to help determine correct size and features. Without Wheels-31.5 x 22 x 23 inches, With...
- Your dog’s measurements should be under 29” L x 20” H for large kennel
- Iata airline approved 2 dishes and 4 live animal stickers metal bolt and nuts included
Last update on 2024-09-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels – Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight and durable design makes it perfect for long trips
- A secure latch prevents your dog from escaping
- Two water bowls included
Cons:
- Some customers have complained about the quality of the plastic and not long-lasting
Amazon Basics Portable Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel
The AmazonBasics Portable Travel Kennel is another popular soft-sided kennel that is perfect for traveling in your truck. It has a zippered side entrance for fast and easy access to your pet.
The crate comes with straps for added security while traveling in the car, as well as carrying handles so you can transport it with ease. It is also collapsible for easy storage and transport. It has front and top doors for added ventilation and comfort
With its soft-sided design, it is ideal for large dogs from 76lbs – 90lbs
AmazonBasics Portable Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel – Best Features
- Zippered side entrance for fast and easy access to your pet
- Comes with straps for security while traveling
- Collapsible for easy storage and transport
- Front and top doors for added ventilation and comfort
- Soft-sided dog crate for keeping a furry 4-legged friend safe and comfortable when traveling, includes a Small dog crate made...
- Sets up in seconds with no tools needed; folds flat for easy portability and compact storage；2 doors (top and front) for...
- Secure zipper closures, plus fastening straps to keep unzipped rolled-up doors in place and out of the way; mesh windows and...
Last update on 2024-09-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
AmazonBasics Portable Folding Soft Dog Travel Crate Kennel – Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Secure straps keep your dog safe while traveling
- Portable – easy storage and transport
- Comfortable for your dog with soft-sided design
- Easy to install – pops up in just a few seconds
Cons:
- Not designed for small dogs
Related Article: Best Dog Beds for Boxers. Here’s a list of the best-reviewed boxer dog bed.
People Also Ask
Can You Put A Dog Crate In The Bed Of A Truck?
Most dog crates are designed for inside your car. But it is possible to put a soft-sided or wire-crate in the back of a pickup truck as long as you use caution and follow the safety rules that come with the crate. There are purpose-built dog crates especially for trucks.
How Can I Carry My Dog In A Pickup Truck?
There are different options for traveling with your dog in a truck. One option is to invest in a purpose-built dog box that fits the bed of your pickup. Another option is to use an aftermarket product like the Husky Liner or Doggie Tailgate. Another option is to use a truck bed dog kennel.
How Can I Keep My Dog Warm In The Truck Bed?
Many dogs are good at keeping themselves warm when in the back of a truck. A heated dog pad can help keep them comfortable during colder weather. If your dog is prone to getting cold, you may want to invest in an insulated pet bed or even a heated pad.
Related Article: Transform an unused space into a dog room under stairs in a very creative way!
Conclusion
There are a number of different dog crates and kennels that are perfect for traveling in the back of your truck. When choosing the right one for you, consider the size of your dog, how often you will be using it, and the type of travel you will be doing. Also, think about the safety features of each kennel.
When you do find the perfect one for you, it will make traveling with your pet a breeze – whether you are going on vacation or just taking him on a drive.
Opt for an easy-to-clean crate that is lightweight and won’t rust or corrode. Consider a kennel with a top handle for easy transport. If you’re frequently on the go, choose a crate that is airline travel approved.
The best truck bed dog kennels can keep your furry friend safe and secure on even the most rugged of trips!
By the way, if your pet loves to crawl under the bed, here’s how to block off under the bed.
Are you looking to buy a dog kennel for your truck bed? Share your top pick in the comments section below.
Thanks for reading!
Related Article: If your pets need help climbing up high beds or couches, then a foam dog ramp for bed might be the perfect solution! Or you can build a sturdy dog ramp on your own. See our reviews as we included different styles and designs for you to choose from.
