How to Transport a Dog in a Truck Bed
Pickups present a special traveling challenge for dog owners, but it is possible to safely transport your dog in the truck's bed. Several easy steps accomplish a safe ride for your dog. Remember that most states have laws regarding the transport of unsecured animals in the bed of a truck.
Things You'll Need
- Dog box or crate
- Truck restraint cable (if not using a dog box)
- Dog harness (if not using dog box)
Instructions
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1
Place a dog box in the back of your truck for the easiest, safest transport of the dog. Secure the box to the truck according to the manufacturer's fastener or tie-down recommendations, and make sure the box is ventilated.
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2
Use a truck restraint system if you're not using a dog box. Secure the main line of the truck restraint system by following manufacturer's instructions.
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3
Fasten the lead to the main line. Some restraints are fixed in the middle of the line, while others allow the dog to move back and forth around the truck bed but not jump out.
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4
Put the harness on your dog. Adjust the harness so that it is snug but not tight. You should be able to slip two fingers under the straps.
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5
Clip the lead of the restraint system to the main D-ring on the back of the harness.
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Tips & Warnings
If you're not sure what size dog box to get, measure your dog from the nose to the base of his tail and add 3 inches. This will give you the length of the box. Measure from the floor to your dog's shoulder and add 3 inches for the minimum height.
Aluminum dog boxes are the sturdiest available, and many come with interchangeable door panels to suit the weather.
Truck restraint systems are great, but be sure that you've secured the main line far enough from the cab of the truck to prevent your dog from hitting it in case of an accident.
Don't buy a dog box that's too big. You may want to give your friend more room to move, but that's also more room to be thrown around in an accident.
Remember that your dog doesn't have the benefit of air conditioning or heating when he's in the bed of the truck. Be aware of the weather, provide water and provide shade during summer.
Never leave your dog unattended in the bed of a truck or secured for lengthy periods of time.
