If you run dogs in the Southeast, you already know that your gear matters. From collars and leads to boots and brush pants, every part of your setup plays a role in how your day goes. But one of the most important — and often overlooked — pieces of gear is your dog box.
Whether you are hunting rabbits, flushing birds, or competing in field trials, a properly outfitted dog box setup can make your trips safer, more comfortable, and more efficient. At Godwin’s Outdoor Inc., we have been helping handlers, hunters, and dog trainers find the right boxes and accessories for years. We know what works because we use it ourselves.
This guide will walk you through how to build the right dog box setup for your vehicle, your dogs, and your hunting style. We will cover materials, ventilation, storage options, and the little add-ons that make a big difference.
Why a Quality Dog Box Matters
A dog box is not just a place to toss your dogs and drive. It is their home base for the day. It is where they ride, rest, and recover between runs. A good dog box protects them from the heat, cold, wind, and rain. It also keeps them safe during travel, especially if you are bouncing down dirt roads or through farm fields.
A cheap or poorly designed box can lead to injuries, overheating, or escape. A well-built box gives you peace of mind and helps your dogs stay comfortable and ready to work when it is their turn.
Step 1: Choose the Right Size and Layout
Start by thinking about how many dogs you usually run. Are you hauling one or two dogs, or are you loading up a full kennel for a field trial weekend? The size and layout of your box should match your typical setup.
- Single Compartment Boxes: Great for handlers with one dog or two small breeds.
- Dual Compartment Boxes: Ideal for hunters running two dogs that need to be kept separate.
- Multi-Compartment Setups: Perfect for trainers or field trialers with several working dogs.
Also consider your dog’s breed and build. Beagles do not need as much space as a German Shorthaired Pointer. Give them enough room to turn around and lie down comfortably, but not so much space that they slide around during transport.
Step 2: Pick the Right Material
Most hunting dog boxes are built from one of three materials. Each has its benefits depending on your needs and budget.
- Aluminum: Lightweight, rust-resistant, and great for ventilation. Easy to clean and holds up well in hot weather. A top choice for Southern hunters and those who haul their boxes often.
- Diamond Plate: A type of aluminum with added durability and a rugged look. It is slightly heavier but often offers better protection and looks sharp in a truck bed.
- Molded Poly or Composite: Usually lighter and more budget-friendly. These are often used for travel crates or temporary setups, but some models are designed tough enough for regular field use.
Wood boxes are still used by some, but they tend to be heavier, absorb odors, and break down faster in wet conditions. We typically recommend aluminum or composite models for consistent performance year after year.
Step 3: Make Sure It Fits Your Vehicle
Your dog box is only useful if it fits securely in your truck or SUV. Measure your bed or cargo area carefully and take note of tie-down points. You do not want a box that slides around or hangs off the edge.
At Godwin’s, we can help you test fit different boxes and make sure you get something that works with your tailgate, bed liner, and cover. Some handlers also prefer slide-in boxes that can be removed easily after the season. Others go with permanent mount options that bolt in place for daily use.
If you pull a trailer or ATV, you may want a compact or stackable model that works with your existing gear setup.
Step 4: Focus on Ventilation and Insulation
The Southeast is no stranger to heat. A box without proper airflow can become dangerous fast, especially during early-season training runs or warm-weather trial days.
Look for these features:
- Vented Doors and Sides: Allow steady airflow while keeping dogs secure.
- Top Vents or Roof Fans: Push hot air out and pull fresh air in.
- Removable Panels: Let you adjust airflow based on the weather.
- Insulated Walls: Help maintain temperature in both hot and cold conditions.
Some boxes also come with built-in fans that can connect to your vehicle’s battery or a separate power source. These are great for handlers who spend all day at a field trial or train multiple dogs throughout the day.
Step 5: Add Storage and Utility Features
When you are running dogs, space matters. A dog box with added storage can help you stay organized and ready to go.
Popular upgrades include:
- Top Storage Compartments: Great for leads, bumpers, whistles, and food.
- Slide-Out Trays: Easy access to smaller items without digging around.
- Built-In Water Tanks: Useful for warm days or multi-hour hunts.
- Lockable Doors: Keep your dogs and gear safe during travel or while parked.
At Godwin’s, we carry several models with integrated storage or add-on boxes that mount to the top or side. These can save you the hassle of hauling a second gear bag and give you faster access when you are in the field.
Step 6: Customize for Your Style
No two handlers run their dogs the same way. Some spend all day in the swamp, while others rotate dogs every 20 minutes in a competition field. Your dog box setup should reflect how you use it.
Here are a few custom touches to consider:
- Divider panels: Separate aggressive or high-energy dogs
- Drain plugs: Make cleaning fast and easy
- Tie-down loops: Secure leads when opening doors
- Reflective tape or lighting: Better visibility for early morning or nighttime use
You can also personalize your box with name plates, decals, or kennel logos. We have several clients who treat their dog boxes like a mobile business card when they show up to hunt or compete.
Maintaining Your Dog Box
Just like the rest of your gear, dog boxes need upkeep to stay in good shape. Here are a few quick tips:
- Rinse the box after muddy or wet hunts to prevent rust or buildup
- Disinfect the interior occasionally, especially after illness or during warmer months
- Check latches and hinges for wear or damage
- Make sure ventilation holes stay clear of fur or debris
- Inspect tie-downs regularly to ensure a secure hold during travel
The better you maintain your box, the longer it will last and the safer it will be for your dogs.
Why Buy Your Dog Box from Godwin’s Outdoor Inc.?
We do not sell cookie-cutter gear. Every box we carry has been chosen for hunters, handlers, and trainers who actually use their gear in the field. We stock models from trusted brands, and we work with local handlers to test what performs best in real conditions.
Whether you are picking up a box for your first dog or upgrading your setup for an entire kennel, we can help you choose something that works for your truck, your budget, and your dogs.
You can walk into the store, put your hands on different models, ask questions, and make sure you are not guessing. That is what sets Godwin’s apart. We are not here to move inventory. We are here to help you build the setup that works when it counts.
Final Thoughts
Your dogs give you everything they have every time they run. The least we can do is give them a ride that keeps them safe, cool, and ready for the next cast or flush.
A good dog box is more than a piece of equipment. It is part of your team. Whether you are hitting the woods at daylight or spending three days at a field trial, your setup matters.
Come see us at Godwin’s Outdoor Inc. and let us help you build the ultimate dog box setup. From simple single-dog carriers to fully outfitted competition rigs, we have the gear and the know-how to get you running right.