A loose dog kennel is one of the most common — and dangerous — mistakes hunters make. Sudden stops, rough roads, and evasive maneuvers can turn an unsecured kennel into a projectile.
Whether you haul dogs in a truck bed or SUV, properly securing your kennel protects:
- Your dog
- Your vehicle
- You and your passengers
This guide walks through simple, proven ways to secure a dog kennel correctly, without overcomplicating your setup.
Why Securing a Kennel Matters
An unsecured kennel can:
- Tip or slide on turns
- Slam into vehicle walls
- Stress or injure your dog
- Damage your truck or SUV
Even short trips on back roads matter. Rough terrain magnifies movement fast.
General Rules (Applies to All Vehicles)
No matter what you drive:
- Kennel should not move more than 1–2 inches
- Always secure from at least two directions
- Avoid bungee cords (they stretch)
- Use ratchet straps or cam straps
- Place kennel against a solid surface when possible
How to Secure a Kennel in a Truck Bed
Truck beds are ideal for kennels if secured properly.
Step-by-Step
- Position the kennel
- Against the front of the bed or side wall
- On a rubber bed mat if possible
- Use ratchet straps
- Run straps through kennel handles or tie-down points
- Anchor to factory bed tie-downs
- Tighten evenly
- Do not overtighten to the point of warping plastic
- The kennel should not rock
- Weather protection
- Use a topper or weatherproof kennel cover when possible
👉 Amazon – Heavy Duty Ratchet Straps:
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How to Secure a Kennel in an SUV
SUVs require a little more planning due to enclosed space.
Step-by-Step
- Fold rear seats flat
- Position kennel lengthwise
- Door facing rear hatch or side
- Anchor using cargo tie-downs
- Most SUVs have factory anchor points
- Use cam straps or ratchet straps
- Test movement
- Push firmly — it should barely shift
👉 Amazon – Cam Lock Straps (SUV Friendly):
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Use a Non-Slip Base (Highly Recommended)
A rubber mat underneath the kennel:
- Reduces vibration
- Prevents sliding
- Makes straps more effective
- Keeps noise down
This is one of the cheapest upgrades you can make.
👉 Amazon – Heavy Duty Rubber Utility Mat:
https://amzn.to/3LJWISy
Kennel Orientation: Door Direction Matters
- Rear-facing doors: Easy access, good airflow
- Side-facing doors: Better for tight spaces
- Avoid doors facing loose cargo
Make sure nothing can fall or slide into the kennel door.
What NOT to Do
❌ Do not rely on kennel weight alone
❌ Do not use bungee cords
❌ Do not stack unsecured kennels
❌ Do not allow kennels to sit on bare slick plastic
❌ Do not block ventilation openings
These mistakes cause stress, noise, and injuries.
Quick Safety Check Before Driving
Before every trip:
- Tug straps firmly
- Check latch security
- Confirm airflow
- Remove loose gear nearby
This takes less than 30 seconds.
How This Fits Your Full Setup
Properly securing your kennel ties directly into:
- Your truck or SUV hunting setup
- Dog comfort on long drives
- Injury prevention
- Legal transport requirements in some states
➡️ Read next:
Best Truck & SUV Setup for Hunting Dogs
Final Thoughts
You don’t need an expensive setup — you need a secure one. A properly anchored kennel keeps your dog calm, safe, and ready to hunt when you arrive.
Secure once. Check often. Hunt with confidence.
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