Everything You Need to Know About Gunner Kennel Pads
A common question many gun dog owners have is what type of bedding is best for their hunting pup. If you’ve been searching terms like “gunner kennel pad”, you’ve likely come across a variety of options and may be unsure what will work best for your four-legged friend. As a longtime retriever owner myself, I’ve tried several different materials over the years and want to share my experience to help you choose the ideal kennel pad for your dog.
Why Do Dogs Need Padding in Their Kennel?
The primary reason to use padding is to provide comfort and protection for your dog while they’re confined to their kennel. Prolonged contact with wire or plastic kennel floors can lead to soreness or injury. Padding the floor helps distribute your dog’s weight evenly and prevents them from being in direct contact with hard surfaces. It also provides insulation from both extreme hot and cold. Comfort is key, as no dog wants to essentially “lay on the floor” for hours at a time!
Different Types of Kennel Padding
- Foam pads – Thick foam pads are a very popular option that provide plush cushioning. However, they tend to compress over time and dog nails can eventually puncture them.
- Orthopedic gel pads – Gel-infused memory foam molds to your dog’s body and relieves pressure points. These are more durable but also more expensive than basic foam.
- Washable fabric pads – Often made of polyester or cotton, these simply create a softer surface than wire crates. The downside is they provide minimal cushioning or support.
- Removable vinyl mats – Strong, water-resistant vinyl stands up to chewing and contains odors. However, they aren’t too cushy.
- Custom-cut memory foam – High-density memory foam contours perfectly for ultimate comfort and support. But it’s pricier than off-the-rack options.
Picking the Right Pad Material
There’s no single “best” material, as your choice depends on factors like your dog’s habits, activity level, and budget. From my experience, for most active working dogs, I’d recommend a washable fabric or vinyl mat over foam due to their durability. Chewers may puncture foam quickly. However, orthopedic gel or memory foam can help aging or recovering dogs. Let’s look at some real-life scenarios:
Case Study #1: Chewer Breeds
I had a Labrador pup named Charlie who was, how do I put this nicely, a serious chewer! No rawhide or toy lasted long in his crate. Within a week, his foam pad looked like Swiss cheese. I replaced it with a thick vinyl mat, hoping it was puncture-proof. Much to my relief, Charlie couldn’t damage it no matter how hard he tried to tear into it. The mat has held up perfectly through two more retrievers. For powerful chewers like Labs, it’s a no-brainer.
Case Study #2: Older Golden Retriever
My 12-year-old Golden, Max, started struggling with arthritis. He hesitated to jump in the truck or got stiff after walks. His days retrieving in the field were over. I switched his standard foam pad for one with gel beads and microfiber cushioning. Holy smokes, was it like night and day! Max happily curled up in his crate and had no trouble rising after long naps. The gel contouring relieved his joints and made him comfortable as an old man. Modern orthopedic materials totally helped his senior years.
Other Factors to Consider
Beyond the material, pad size is important. Make sure it fully covers the wire crate floor with no gaps that could pinch paws. Machine washable covers are ideal for odors. Thickness should allow 2-3 inches between your dog and any wires below. Additionally, replace pads every 6-12 months as they compress over time. Inspect for punctures that could risk ingestion. And rotate pads to distribute wear if possible!
Where to Find Quality Kennel Pads
Online retailers like Chewy, Amazon and specialty websites have large selections of crate pads at various price points. But you may find better quality, fit, and value by checking your local farm supply, sporting goods or pet stores. They’ll have brand names like K&H, Snoozer, and Precision Pet guaranteed to last. As the old saying goes, “Why order online when you can try before you buy”? In case those retail options are thin where you live, a road trip to stock up could be rewarding.
Wrapping It Up
I hope considering real dog situations has helped you narrow down the best kennel padding choice for Fido. Pads come in all shapes and materials, so choosing one your pup will find comfy is key. With that in place, his crate becomes a safe space rather than a “punishment.” Feel free to message me if any other questions come up! Wishing you and your hunting sidekick many happy, comfortable years ahead. Now excuse me while I go give Max some ear scratches.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Kennel Pad for Your Gunner
| Material | Choose plush memory foam, organic cotton, or orthopedic foam for comfort. Avoid thin pads or those containing chemicals. |
| Size | Measure your dog and allow extra space. Overly tight pads can cause restlessness. |
| Machine Washability | Look for pads you can toss in the washer and dryer for easy cleaning. |
| Covering | removable, washable covers contain dirt and messes for easy cleaning. |
| Cooling | Mesh or ventilated designs promote airflow and keep your pup comfy. |
| Non-Skid Bottom | Pads with grips or ridges help it stay put without sliding around. |
FAQ
-
What is a gunner kennel pad?
A gunner kennel pad is a kind of bed for dogs that are trained as hunting companions. It provides protection and comfort for the dog.
-
How big do gunner kennel pads come?
Gunner kennel pads are available in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit different dogs. You can get them small for little hunting dogs or extra large for bigger gun dogs. Most come in measurements like 3’x4′ or 4’x5′.
-
What materials are gunner kennel pads made of?
Typically, gunner kennel pads have a waterproof outer layer to protect the dog from wet ground. The inside tends to be a soft material like cotton or microfiber for comfort. Some even contain a little memory foam.
-
Do gunner kennel pads get dirty easily?
While gunner kennel pads are durable, they can definitely get dirty from outdoor use. However, their outer fabric is usually machine washable for simple cleaning. For stuck-on mud, a hose-down outside does the job.
-
How long do gunner kennel pads last?
If properly cared for, a quality gunner kennel pad can last for years with regular use. However, heavy chewers might shorten the lifespan. Really rugged pads may go over 5 seasons with a dog that doesn’t destroy toys.
-
Are gunner kennel pads worth the price?
For a hunting dog that spends time in the field, a durable kennel pad is worth investing in for their comfort. While they carry a somewhat higher cost than a basic dog bed, they save owner money long-term by preventing vet bills from injured paws or joints from sleeping on hard ground.
-
Can gunner kennel pads be left outside?
Yes, gunner kennel pads are designed to withstand outdoor weather like rain, sun, and temperature changes. As long as they can drain and dry well between uses, most experts say it’s fine to keep them outside year-round for convenience.
-
Do gunner dogs need or like kennel pads?
While not all gun dogs will utilize kennel pads, most seem to enjoy having a soft, protective place of their own outside. It gives them a safe area to rest when not actively working. On rainy days, a sheepskin pad can make miserable weather more comfortable.