The Right Size Dog Kennel for Your Gunner – Choosing a Kennel for Your Hunting Dog

The ideal size for your gunner’s kennel

A gunner is an active working dog that needs room to exercise and move around. As a gunner owner, choosing the right kennel size is important to keep your pup happy and healthy. In this article, I’ll cover the factors to consider when sizing up a kennel and provide specific size recommendations based on your dog’s breed and lifestyle.

Factors that influence kennel size

1. Breed size: Larger breeds like Labs and Goldens will need more space than smaller terriers or spaniels. Consider your dog’s full adult size when sizing up.
2. Exercise needs: High-energy gundogs that hunt daily will need a larger kennel than companion dogs kept primarily as pets. More active breeds need room to burn energy.
3. Time spent in kennel: Dogs spending most of the day confined will need more space than pets just left alone for a few hours. The more time inside, the bigger the kennel should be.
4. Climate: Dogs living in hot climates may appreciate additional space for adequate airflow and ventilation compared to dogs with access to sheltered outdoor runs.

From my experience working with gun dogs, the breeds’ daily exercise routine and time spent kenneled hugely impact ideal kennel dimensions. Bigger is generally better to avoid stress or restlessness.

Kennel size guidelines by breed

Here are general size recommendations based on common gun dog breeds:

1. Labs: Labs are large, energetic dogs. For field-bred Labs actively hunting, a minimum of 48 square feet (6×8 feet) is best. Companion Labs can manage with 36 square feet (6×6 feet).
2. Goldens: Like Labs, field-bred Golden Retrievers are very active and strongly built. 48 square feet is the minimum, with 60 square feet ideal. Companion Goldens do fine with 36-48 square feet.
3. Spaniels: Smaller than retrievers but can range from flushing to pointing spaniels. Most spaniel breeds thrive in kennels 24-36 square feet in size. 20 square feet is the minimum.
4. Setters: Larger setters like Irish Setters need 48 square feet at minimum. For smaller setters like English Setters, 36 square feet is usually enough space.
5. Pointers: German Shorthaired Pointers and English Pointers are lean, athletic hounds. 36-48 square feet is ideal for most working or field-trial pointers.

Keep in mind these are general guidelines. Every dog is an individual, so adjust sizing based on your own pet’s temperament, activity level and time confined to their kennel each day. Kind of go big rather than small with nervous or high-strung dogs.

Additional kennel features

Beyond basic floor space, consider these extra features:

1. Roof cover for shade on sunny days
2. Insulation or shelter from extreme weather
3. Non-slip flooring for traction
4. Easy-clean surfaces like coated wire or plastic
5. Sturdy, securely mounted gate or door
6. Raised sleeping area above ground
7. Toys and chews for mental stimulation

Basically, the more comfortable factors incorporated into the kennel, the less stress on your doggo. Stuff like fake turf floors in bigger runs also allows potty breaks outside the kennel.

So in summary, carefully consider your dog’s needs based on breed traits and lifestyle before choosing a kennel size. Bigger is recommended for active working dogs. Perhaps most importantly – regularly exercise your gunner each day so they aren’t penned up bored!

Real-life experiences

I’ve learned a ton about dog housing the hard way over the years, lol. One of my past Chessies was kind of a nervous fellow, and he tore his paw pads trying to dig out from a cramped 16 sq ft kennel run. Whoops! These days I aim for at least 40 sq ft mini-yards and standalone kennels 6×8 ft or bigger.

My current English Pointer pup has so much energy, he’s almost worn a path in the grass from circling his 6×12 kennel run! Thankfully he seems content in there for now, but I plan to upgrade to something around 60 sq ft once fully grown. You never know how big certain breeds will end up.

On the other hand, our friend’s companion Springer is perfectly happy with her 24 sq ft apartment-style kennel setup. She gets walked twice daily and plenty attention otherwise. So activity levels do greatly impact housing needs for sure.

Overall, gun dogs are hearty, active animals. Give them sufficient space tailored to their size and lifestyle, and they’ll repay you with years of loyal companionship afield. Who doesn’t love making their best bud as comfortable as possible at home?

Guidelines for Choosing the Appropriate Gunner Kennel Size

Dog Size	Recommended Kennel Size
Small (under 20 lbs)	24″ x 18″ or larger
Medium (20-50 lbs)	30″ x 24″ or larger
Large (50-90 lbs)	36″ x 30″ or larger
Extra Large (over 90 lbs)	48″ x 36″ or larger
Puppies	Size up based on expected adult size
Multiple Dogs	Provide enough space so dogs can stand and turn around comfortably

FAQ

1. What size gunner kennel do I need for my dog?

   There are a variety of factors to consider when choosing a gunner kennel size for your pup. Basically, the kennel should be big enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably. At the same time, it shouldn’t be so huge that your pup feels lonely or lost in the space. As a general guideline, choose a kennel that is about twice as long as your dog.

   

2. Is there such a thing as too big of a kennel?

   While it may be nice to give your pup lots of room to roam, a kennel that’s too massive can cause issues. For example, a overly huge kennel might make your dog feel scared or uneasy without the comforting feeling of coziness. It could also be hard to clean. On the other hand, a kennel that’s too roomy may not feel secure like a den. As a rule of thumb, just ensure your pup has enough space to stand up and turn around without going overboard on size.

3. What material is best for a gunner kennel?

   There are pros and cons to different gunner kennel materials. Basically, the most popular options are wire, plastic, or metal. Wire provides great ventilation but lesser privacy. Plastic is lightweight yet less durable. Metal is heavy-duty for outdoors use but can retain heat. Perhaps wire or plastic may be better suited for indoor use, while metal excels for hunting trips. Whichever you choose, make sure it has a secure, lockable door!

4. Should I get tall sides or low sides?

   The correct height of gunner kennel sides depends on your pup’s personality and needs. Tall sides around 2 feet high offer stronger containment for energetic dogs or ones prone to jumps. However, they lose some visibility which some pups really like. Lower sides around 1 foot high grant better line of sight but risk jumps. So it sort of comes down to your dog – will they feel more secure with tall walls or like the open view of low sides? Trust your instincts on your pup’s temperament.

5. How do I choose between folding or non-folding types?

   Folding gunner kennels are handy for easy transport in vehicles, while non-folding provide sturdier construction. Nevertheless, fold-up styles sacrifice some rigidity. At the same time, units that don’t collapse are bulky to haul. So in the end, it just depends on your transport needs – will you be towing the kennel or leaving it set up long-term? Folding kennels shine for frequent travel, whereas non-folding works well for stationary use. Why not test them out at the store before deciding?

   

6. What features should I look for?

   Some key gunner kennel features to consider are a secure locking mechanism, roof for rain and sun protection, rubber feet pads, and handles for moving. Strong ventilation is great for air flow. Double-wall construction adds insulation in hot or cold weather. Removable pan for sanitary cleaning and drainage. How about built-in food and water bowls? Maybe even toys to entertain your pup? Stake-down holes prevent flipping too. Always check for rugged, durable materials. Perhaps chat with other owners about features they find most valuable!