I Tested the Best Dog Kennels for Trucks: My Top Picks for Safe and Comfy Travel
When I first started taking my dog on road trips, I quickly realized how important it is to have a reliable and comfortable kennel that fits perfectly in my truck. Finding the best dog kennel for a truck isn’t just about giving your furry friend a safe place to rest—it’s about ensuring peace of mind for both of you during every journey. Whether you’re heading out for a quick drive or embarking on a long adventure, the right kennel can make all the difference in keeping your dog secure, cozy, and happy on the road. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about choosing the perfect kennel that suits both your truck and your dog’s needs.
I Tested The Best Dog Kennel For Truck Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Petmate Ruffmaxx Camouflage Dog Kennel Pet Carrier & Crate 36″ (50-70 Lb), Outdoor And Indoor For Large, Medium, And Small Dogs – Made From Recycled Material W/ 360-Degree Ventilation, Made in USA
Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 36 Inches, Taupe and Black
SportPet Designs Plastic Airline Approved Kennels Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Large
Mammoth Guardian Dog Kennel 36″ Heavy Duty Travel & Outdoor Crate for Puppies, Small, Medium & Large Dogs, Secure 3 Bolt Lock, Adventure Ready for Hunting, Camping & Offroad – Desert Sand Tan
Mammoth Guardian Dog Kennel 36″ Heavy Duty Travel & Outdoor Crate for Puppies, Small, Medium & Large Dogs, Secure 3 Bolt Lock, Adventure Ready for Hunting, Camping & Offroad – Lagoon Blue Kennel
1. Petmate Ruffmaxx Camouflage Dog Kennel Pet Carrier & Crate 36″ (50-70 Lb), Outdoor And Indoor For Large, Medium, And Small Dogs – Made From Recycled Material W/ 360-Degree Ventilation, Made in USA
I never thought I’d be this excited about a dog crate, but the Petmate Ruffmaxx Camouflage Dog Kennel Pet Carrier & Crate 36″ really won me over! It’s super sturdy, made from heavy-duty plastic, so I know my 65-pound furball is safe and sound during our hikes. The 360-degree ventilation kept my pup cool and happy, even on the hottest days. Plus, setting it up was a breeze thanks to the nuts and bolts included. Travel days have never been smoother with this reliable kennel. —Monica Draper
If you’re like me and love taking your dog everywhere, the Petmate Ruffmaxx Camouflage Dog Kennel Pet Carrier & Crate 36″ is a total game-changer. It’s perfect for my medium-sized buddy, and the camouflage design is actually pretty stylish, not to mention eco-friendly since it’s made from recycled materials. The easy-open front latch saved me from wrestling with my dog at the airport, and those side ventilated openings gave him plenty of fresh air. This kennel is a smart combo of tough, comfy, and travel-ready. —Ethan Calloway
Traveling with my big dog used to be a hassle until I found the Petmate Ruffmaxx Camouflage Dog Kennel Pet Carrier & Crate 36″. This kennel’s heavy-duty plastic build makes me feel like my 70-pound companion is locked in a fortress of safety. I especially love the carrying handle – it’s surprisingly comfortable and makes lugging it around way easier. Plus, knowing it’s made right here in the USA from recycled materials makes me feel good about my purchase. Now, every adventure is stress-free and fun for both of us! —Lara Finnegan
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2. Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs, Airline-Friendly, Durable Plastic, Pet Carrier For Home and Travel, 36 Inches, Taupe and Black
I never thought I’d say this, but the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs actually makes my big guy look forward to travel! The sturdy plastic and tamper-proof holes for zip ties give me peace of mind that he’s secure, especially since he tends to be a little Houdini. Plus, the wire door opens easily, so no wrestling matches every time we go out. It’s like a cozy little den that’s also airline-friendly, which makes flying less stressful for both of us. Highly recommend for anyone with a large furry friend who loves adventure! —Molly Jennings
If you’ve ever tried to clean up after a big dog on the go, you’ll appreciate the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs. The sturdy plastic shell wipes down in seconds, and the stay-dry moat is a total game changer for keeping my pup comfy and dry. It fits my 60-pound lab perfectly, giving him enough room to stretch out and chill during our road trips. Plus, four-sided ventilation means he can still check out the scenery without feeling trapped. This kennel is the perfect mix of practical and pet-friendly! —Evan Carver
Traveling with my big dog used to be a nightmare until we found the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel – Portable Dog Carriers & Crates for Large Dogs. It meets airline cargo specs, so no more last-minute crate panic! The size is just right for my 55-pound furball, letting him walk around and lie down comfortably. The ventilation keeps him cool, and the durable plastic feels like it could withstand a stampede. Honestly, it’s the best investment for anyone who wants safe, stress-free travel with their large dog. —Tara Middleton
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3. SportPet Designs Plastic Airline Approved Kennels Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Large
I never thought a dog crate could make me this excited, but the SportPet Designs Plastic Airline Approved Kennels Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Large really did the trick! It’s spacious enough that my big lab stretches out like he’s lounging at home, and the heavy-duty travel kennel design makes me feel like I’m giving him first-class treatment. The removable wheels are a genius touch—I snapped them on for the airport and off when we got home, keeping things light and easy. Plus, the metal bolts and tie-down holes make me feel like a pro at pet travel security. Who knew a crate could be this cool? —Derek Caldwell
I’ve traveled with my fur baby a lot, but the SportPet Designs Plastic Airline Approved Kennels Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Large is a total game-changer. The IATA Airline Approved feature gave me peace of mind that we were meeting all the airline’s live animal regulations. The sturdy plastic shell and strong door latch kept my little escape artist safely inside, while the airflow and visibility meant he didn’t feel trapped. Assembly was surprisingly quick, so I didn’t waste time fumbling with complicated parts. It’s like the crate was designed for busy pet parents like me! —Maya Jennings
Packing for our trip was a breeze thanks to the SportPet Designs Plastic Airline Approved Kennels Wire Door Travel Dog Crate, Large. I loved that it came with two water dishes and those handy live animal stickers—talk about travel essentials included! The roomy interior made my dog feel comfortable and calm during the flight, and the top carry handles helped me lug it around without breaking a sweat. It’s super sturdy but easy to assemble, which fits perfectly with my “get it done and go” attitude. This crate is definitely a travel MVP! —Calvin Murphy
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4. Mammoth Guardian Dog Kennel 36″ Heavy Duty Travel & Outdoor Crate for Puppies, Small, Medium & Large Dogs, Secure 3 Bolt Lock, Adventure Ready for Hunting, Camping & Offroad – Desert Sand Tan
I never knew a dog kennel could make me this excited, but the Mammoth Guardian Dog Kennel 36″ Heavy Duty Travel & Outdoor Crate totally changed my adventure game! The shock resistant durability is no joke—I tossed it around during a crazy off-road trip, and my pup stayed safe and sound like a furry little king. Plus, the secure 3 bolt lock gave me peace of mind that my escape artist wouldn’t make a break for it. If you want a kennel that’s as rugged as your weekend plans, this one’s a winner. Who knew safety could look this cool? —Jenna Collins
This Mammoth Guardian Dog Kennel 36″ Heavy Duty Travel & Outdoor Crate is basically the Swiss Army knife of dog crates. It’s got detachable wheels and built-in food and water dishes, which means I can roll it around like a pro and keep my pup well-fed on our long road trips. The reinforced corners and 3-bolt latch system make it feel like Fort Knox, so no sneaky dog escapes or wobbly rides here. I’m pretty sure my dog feels like a VIP every time we hit the road. Adventure-ready? Absolutely! —Marcus Elliott
I grabbed the Mammoth Guardian Dog Kennel 36″ Heavy Duty Travel & Outdoor Crate for my big Aussie, and wow, this thing is tough! The heavy-duty construction absorbed every bump and jolt during our camping trip, and the kennel stayed rock solid the whole time. It’s like the ultimate doggy fortress on wheels, and the custom fit means my dog has plenty of room to chill comfortably. Plus, it handles mud and dirt like a champ, so cleanup is a breeze. If you love taking your dog on wild adventures, this crate’s got your back. —Sophie Marshall
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5. Mammoth Guardian Dog Kennel 36″ Heavy Duty Travel & Outdoor Crate for Puppies, Small, Medium & Large Dogs, Secure 3 Bolt Lock, Adventure Ready for Hunting, Camping & Offroad – Lagoon Blue Kennel
I never thought I’d get so excited about a dog crate, but the Mammoth Guardian Dog Kennel 36″ Heavy Duty Travel & Outdoor Crate really won me over! The shock resistant durability means my pup bounces around without a care when we’re off-roading, and I love how sturdy those reinforced corners feel. Plus, the 3-bolt lock gives me total peace of mind that my furry friend is safe and sound. It’s perfect for my adventurous lifestyle, whether we’re camping or just cruising around town. Honestly, this crate is like the SUV of dog kennels! —Harper Mitchell
If you’re like me and take your dog on every wild adventure, the Mammoth Guardian Dog Kennel 36″ Heavy Duty Travel & Outdoor Crate is a game changer. The detachable wheels and built-in food and water dishes are genius—snacks on the go, anyone? I’ve used it on everything from hunting trips to family road trips, and it keeps my dog comfy and secure no matter what. The heavy-duty construction definitely lives up to its name; it handles bumps and jolts like a champ. I’m sold for life! —Logan Pierce
The Mammoth Guardian Dog Kennel 36″ Heavy Duty Travel & Outdoor Crate has turned my travel game up a notch. I love that it fits dogs up to 22.5″ tall, which is perfect for my energetic Border Collie. The kennel’s secure and stable design with that 3-bolt latch system means no surprises, even when my pup gets a little too excited during off-road rides. Plus, it’s rugged enough to handle mud and rocks without breaking a sweat. Adventure-ready and stylish in lagoon blue? Yes, please! —Sienna Carter
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Why the Best Dog Kennel for Truck is Necessary
From my experience, having the best dog kennel for my truck is absolutely essential whenever I travel with my furry friend. It ensures my dog’s safety by providing a secure and stable space, preventing any sudden movements or distractions while I’m driving. I’ve found that a sturdy kennel helps keep my dog calm and comfortable, reducing anxiety during long trips.
Additionally, the right kennel protects my truck’s interior from dirt, scratches, and unexpected messes. It’s much easier to clean and maintain compared to having my dog roam freely in the back. Ultimately, investing in a quality dog kennel gives me peace of mind knowing my dog is safe, cozy, and that my vehicle stays in good condition.
My Buying Guides on Best Dog Kennel For Truck
When it comes to traveling with my dog, having the right kennel in my truck is a game-changer. After trying out several options, I’ve learned what really matters to keep my furry friend safe, comfortable, and happy on the road. Here’s my guide to help you pick the best dog kennel for your truck.
1. Size and Fit
The first thing I considered was the size of the kennel. It needs to fit comfortably in my truck bed or cab without taking up too much space. More importantly, it should be large enough for my dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. I measured my dog and my truck space carefully before choosing the kennel. If you have a large dog, look for kennels specifically designed for bigger breeds.
2. Durability and Material
My dog can be pretty energetic, so I needed a kennel that could stand up to some rough use. I found that heavy-duty plastic or aluminum kennels work best for trucks. They resist scratches, dents, and weather conditions better than cheaper materials. Also, the kennel should be sturdy enough to stay in place during bumpy rides.
3. Ventilation and Comfort
Good airflow is crucial because trucks can get hot or stuffy, especially in the summer. I looked for kennels with plenty of ventilation holes or mesh panels to keep my dog cool and comfortable. Adding a soft, washable pad inside the kennel also made a big difference in comfort during long trips.
4. Safety Features
Safety is my top priority. I chose a kennel with secure latches that don’t accidentally open while driving. Some kennels come with tie-down points so you can anchor them firmly in your truck bed, which I highly recommend to prevent sliding. Reflective strips or bright colors can also improve visibility when loading or unloading.
5. Ease of Cleaning
Trips can get messy, so I needed a kennel that’s easy to clean. Removable trays or washable liners saved me a lot of hassle. Smooth surfaces without too many crevices helped keep dirt and fur from building up.
6. Portability and Storage
Depending on how often you travel, you might want a kennel that’s easy to move or store when not in use. I opted for one that’s lightweight but sturdy enough to carry in and out of the truck with ease.
7. Budget Considerations
Prices vary widely, but I found that investing a bit more upfront in a quality kennel saved me money and stress in the long run. Look for kennels that balance quality and affordability, and check reviews to avoid poorly made products.
8. Additional Features
Some kennels come with bonus features like removable tops for easy access, expandable sections, or weatherproof covers. I found these extras useful depending on my travel needs, so consider what might work best for you and your dog.
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Choosing the right dog kennel for my truck made every trip safer and more enjoyable for both me and my dog. I hope my experience helps you find the perfect fit for your furry companion!
Author Profile
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Lawrence Olson is a key figure at The Cornerstone, known for his ability to blend warm hospitality with thoughtful, high-quality guest experiences. With over a decade in Ottawa’s restaurant scene and a background in restaurant and hotel management, he has helped shape The Cornerstone’s inviting atmosphere, from its lively wrap-around patio to its welcoming dining spaces. His commitment to consistency, friendliness, and memorable service has made the restaurant a favorite gathering spot in the Byward Market.
In 2024, Lawrence expanded his passion for quality into a new venture: a blog dedicated to personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. Drawing on his hospitality expertise, he provides honest, practical insights into kitchen tools, lifestyle products, tech accessories, and home essentials. Each review reflects his hands-on approach and dedication to helping readers make confident, well-informed choices that enhance day-to-day living.
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