Written By: Zach Miller
"As a hunting dog owner, finding the right kennel for your furry friend is crucial. A good kennel should provide your dog with a safe and comfortable space to rest and recover after a long day of hunting. With so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the right one. Here are the top 5 kennels for hunting dogs that you should consider. These are selected based on their ability to simply take a beating in the conditions that most gundogs are in…the toughest."
1. Gunner Kennels G1
Gunner Kennels G1 is a top-of-the-line kennel that is designed to keep your dog safe during transport. It is made of heavy-duty materials that can withstand the impact of a car accident. The kennel is also equipped with a double-walled design that provides insulation, making it suitable for all weather conditions. The Gunner Kennels G1 is also easy to clean, making it a great option for hunting dogs that tend to get dirty. This is a personal favorite for the simple fact that I have had it in the back of my pickup for almost 8 years now and it is in the best condition it has ever been. I can dive into a ton of detail here but I will say this, it is the number 1 spot for a reason.
2. Ruff Land Kennels
Ruff Land Kennels is another excellent option for hunting dogs. The kennel is made of high-density polyethylene, making it durable and lightweight. It is also designed to provide your dog with maximum ventilation, ensuring that they stay cool and comfortable during transport. The Ruff Land Kennels are also easy to clean, making it a great option for hunting dogs that tend to get dirty. This is another solid option and probably the second most common kennel I see on test grounds and in hunting homes/trucks. The lack of accessories is the reason for it being at the number 2 spot but an amazing kennel nonetheless.
3. Lucky Duck Dog Kennel
“With a patented design, this kennel is durable yet light enough for any member of the family to easily move it. The injection molded door features a quick flip design allowing the door to be reversed in a matter of seconds. In addition, the locking paddle latch will keep your dog safe and only requires one hand for opening. Specifically placed ventilation holes keep your dog cool on hot days, and the pitched floor is elevated to run water away from your dog into the drain channels on each side of the kennel. Drain holes have been strategically located for quick and easy clean up. Multiple kennels can be stacked for easy storage. Other features include: integrated powder coated tie downs, non-slip rubber feet, and heavy duty lift handles.” (Lucky Duck, 2023) Similar to the Gunner G1 design, the Lucky Duck kennel is a solid fit for any duck dog owner. Being relatively new to the market it sits at number 3 on this list but I hold it with a ton of potential.
4. Dakota 283 G3 Kennel
“The Dakota 283 G3 Framed Door Kennel is the ultimate kennel for your pet’s protection. It is created in one solid piece to hold up on all the adventures you and your dogs take and features our ultra-secure lock for peace of mind.” (Dakota 283, 2023) A very similar design and build form as that of the Ruffland kennels, this kennel will be a great choice for the novice-avid duck hunter. This kennel can take a moderate beating level but I would be hesitant to run this crate on extremely long road trips chasing birds.
5. Impact Collapsible Dog Crate
Impact has been in the kennel game for some time and they are absolute tanks in terms of build quality. If you have a super chewer or anxious/reactive dog, this is your go-to to aid with training this behavior out. It sits at the number 5 slot for the simple purpose of maneuverability, these are some heavy kennels and for the purposes most duck hunters will be using them for, it would not make as much sense for easy movement. That being said, it is still an absolute unit of a dog crate. This is typically the go-to choice for K9 sections and other bite work dogs.
When choosing a kennel for your hunting dog, it is important to consider the size of your dog, the type of hunting you will be doing, and the mode of transportation you will be using. You want to make sure that your dog has enough space to move around and that the kennel is secure and durable enough to withstand any bumps or accidents that may occur during transport. In addition to the kennel itself, you may also want to consider purchasing accessories such as a comfortable bed or a water bowl that attaches to the kennel and in some situations, a fan for those warmer environments. These accessories can help make your dog's travel experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
Overall, investing in a high-quality kennel for your hunting dog is a smart decision and investment that will provide your furry friend with a safe and comfortable space to rest and recover after a long day of hunting. With the top 5 kennels for hunting dogs listed above, you can be sure to find the perfect option for your furry friend.
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