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How To Keep A Dog Warm In A Truck Bed

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We love our dogs. We also love bringing out dogs everywhere we go! Knowing how to keep a dog warm in a truck bed is important so we can keep them comfortable in the back even during cold winter days and nights. 

Usually the front of my truck is completely full since I’m a family of 5 so one of the best way to bring the pups with us so to let them ride in the truck bed. I’ve hesitated during cold winter days or nights so decided to do a little research on how to keep them warm. 

We love our dogs like they are our children. We want to make sure when we travel with them in the cold that they are protected. Whether you are doing this because it’s sub zero temperatures and necessary or just a little chilly but want to make sure your pup is comfortable, there will be something here for you! 

How To Keep A Dog Warm In A Truck Bed

Table of Contents

how to keep your dog warm in a truck bed

You can opt for something electric or just providing your dog more protection. There are electric rolls and blankets that you can hook up to your truck to keep your dog warm. You can also purchase both dog coats and socks if you are not looking to hook anything up. Making sure your dog has a good insulated shelter in your tuck bed is also a good way to keep them warm. You can insulate a dog shelter with straw, old blankets and clothes to keep their enclosure warm. Or you can use any combinations of these methods for optimal warmth! 

One thing that’s important to keep in mind is that you want to make sure your dog needs to be kept warm. My research has shown that in attempting to keep your dog warm you can accidentally overheat them. Putting them in a dog coat and having a heated blanket when it’s only 30 degrees outside is too much. Dogs are hardier than we think and can withstand a lot more cold then humans can. 

 

Your dogs breed should also be taken into consideration. The length of your dogs hair and their overall size are huge factors in how warm they stay. If you have a relatively small dog with short hair you may want to use some of these methods when it reaches 20 degrees or so. If you have a big long haired dog, they can withstand the cold temperatures much easier without any extra precautions. 

When trying to keep a dog warm in a truck bed, some of the options below are the best out there! Check them out! 

Use An Appropriate Shelter

If you are traveling in extreme colds it may be necessary to use a dog home of some sort or even a crate. Some dogs are used to crates and some are not. It may be necessary however to help keep them warm. Some of the methods below can be used to insulate their crate or space to help keep a dog warm in a truck bed. 

I’ll give you some ideas for ways to insulate your crate below. Keep in mind, all the other methods I list below this section can be combined to help keep your dog warm in the back of your truck. Having a good shelter combined with a good self heating dog pad can be a great way to make sure your dog never gets cold in the back of your truck!

Keep your dog toasty warm in a truck bed by adding some materials to warm up their space. It is not recommended to keep young puppies outside as they are not mature enough to handle the cold. If you have decided to make their shelters in a truck bed, make sure it’s warm enough. 

You can layer the truck bed with lots of straw, old crates, and old clothes or blankets to insulate and keep the warmth in. If you can’t buy insulation rolls, using straw and some old blankets or clothes is a great free option.  Straw is something that is used by many animal owners to help keep their pets or farm animals warm during the cold.

Good grass hay or straw can prevent moisture and provide the dog with a clean, dry, and warm place. Some people use hay in their truck beds all year long. Don’t forget to replace the straw or hay after they have matted down.

The kit below comes with a crate and a cover giving you a good start on keeping your dog warm in a truck bed! They have several different sizes to accommodate your dog! Check it out on Amazon for reviews and more info below. 

Be sure to also check out my full guide on camping in a pickup truck bed below!

Camping In A Pickup Truck Bed

MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Dog Crate Starter Kit 42-Inch Ideal for Large Dog Breeds (weighing 71 - 90 Pounds) Includes Crate With Cover, Pet Bed, 2 Dog Bowls
  • ULTIMATE CONVENIENCE & PERFECT STARTER KIT FOR THE NEW DOG OWNER. Everything you need arrives in 1 carton so you can enjoy more time with your new family member
  • LARGE DOG BREED KIT INCLUDES EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO GET STARTED: 1 fully equipped 2 door iCrate, 1 dog bed, 1 crate cover & 2 (1 quart) pet bowls that affix to the dog crate; Dog crate measures 42L x 28W x 31H inches when assembled
  • STARTER KIT ideal for large dog breeds with adult weight up to 71 - 90 pounds
  • DESIGNED TO FIT & USER FRIENDLY: Fleece pet bed & polyester crate cover fit your dog crate & are machine washable/dryer friendly; 2 inches Snap'y Fit inches dog bowls are designed to attach to the dog crate keeping food & water in one convenient location
  • MIDWEST HOMES FOR PETS QUALITY GUARANTEE: Entire dog crate kit includes 1-Year Manufacturer's Warranty on all products

Last update on 2024-11-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

K&H Self Warming Crate Pad

Warm your dog safely in the back of your truck with a self warming crate pad. No plugins and no electricity. This pad uses a special material to radiate the warmth your pet gives off and heats up the pad. The 4 corners of the pad are slit to make sure it fits in your crate just right. 

There are a few different sizes and colors to make sure it accommodates your dog perfectly. The top is made of microfleece making it very warm and comfortable for your pup. The bottom has  a non stick surface to make sure the pad stays in place. 

This is a great options, especially when combined with the insulation roll you can click here and get on amazon. Insulating the bottom of the dogs crate or laying area with this pad and the insulation should be enough to keep your dog cozy in most situations. 

Sale
K&H Pet Products Self-Warming Crate Pad Mocha X-Large 32 X 48 Inches
  • SELF-WARMING TECHNOLOGY: Self-warming material captures your pet's body heat and radiates the warmth back to your dog or cat for a cozy resting spot
  • IDEAL CRATE FIT: Corner slits to allow a perfect fit into any pet crate and non-slip bottom for crate mat stability
  • MULTI-USE: Self warming kennel pad can be used outside a crate or kennel as a stand-alone warming bed and is lightweight for easy travel or placement anywhere in your home
  • SLEEP SURFACE: Soft microfleece top creating a warm, cozy and comfortable dog sleeping pad and a thin plush polyester fill creates the ultimate dog cushion
  • EASY CARE: Machine washable crate pad for easy maintenance and convenient dog crate bed

Last update on 2024-11-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Kurgo Reversible Winter Dog Jacket

Whether you dress your do up to look cute or be warm for a cold truck bed, we have a great option for you.  Apart from cute looks, those winter jackets provide optimum warmth to the dog. If you want to keep your dog warm, check out the great doggy winter jacket below. 

Make sure that you pick the correct vest size for your dog. If you are buying the vest online, follow the measurement guidelines. There are all types of vests and jackets for all breeds. 

Your dog will feel comfortable in the Kurgo Reversible Winter jacket below. This coat is available in multiple sizes to perfectly fit dogs of all sizes.  They are reflective and water resistant. The reflective material will help keep your dog safe during nighttime. There is also a zipper in the coat for leash and harness access making it super easy to use. 

Kurgo Loft Dog Jacket, Reversible Dog Coat, Wear with Harness or Sweater, Water Resistant, Reflective, Winter Coat for Large Dogs (Coastal Blue, L)
  • REVERSIBLE, REFLECTIVE, & ADJUSTABLE: Stylish reversible dog vest is perfect to keep your dog cozy during chilly fall months & cold winter months when out on walks, hikes, & runs; reflective piping for visibility in the dark; adjustable hook & loop belly closure for custom fit
  • WATER RESISTANT & LIGHTWEIGHT: Just the right amount of coverage to keep your active dog warm without overheating; athletic fit for complete freedom of movement; water resistant, microtomic, ripstop material for durability & doesn’t make dog itchy like other jackets
  • WEAR WITH HARNESS: Leash access zipper opening on back allows complete access to dog’s harness so you can attach a leash & go; Easy on & off is perfect for walking, running, or hiking during colder months; Machine wash gentle, air dry
  • SIZE & FIT: Large fits dogs with 22" neck, 30-39" chest, & 22.25" back; Please measure dog around widest part of chest & lower neck; back coverage will vary; If dog is in between sizes, size up for more coverage

Last update on 2024-11-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Mud River Dixie Insulated Kennel Cover

This is probably the best option but also the most expensive on the list. Instead of trying to figure out how to keep your dog warmer use something that keeps their area warmer. If your dog is used to driving around in a crate an insulated crate cover will almost certainly be the best way to keep a dog warm in a truck bed. 

The Mud River Dixie insulated cover is a great option. It has a tw0-ply heavy duty poliy exterior shell, Helping not only keep the cold out but your dogs heat in.  It has removable window flaps for some circulation if needed and four D rings to help tie it down. 

It comes in several different sizes so it should be easy to find the cover that will work for your crate. Make sure its cold enough to use an insulated crate cover like this. If its not super cold outside you can simply remove the windows to help air it out and circulate the air better. 

You can check it out on Amazon below. See more photos, user reviews and more!

Mudriver Dixie Kennel Cover, Brown, X-Large
  • MicroLite3 insulation
  • Two-ply heavy-duty poly exterior shell
  • Rubber mesh windows
  • Removable window fllaps
  • Four D-rings for tie down

Last update on 2024-11-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Insulation Rolls

Insulation rolls are known for their warming properties. They have used widely to keep the area inside it more warm and cozy. You can place the insulation roll under your dog directly or maybe under the blanket. The insulation roll is very effective in trapping the heat for a long time. This is your best shot to keep your doggo warm and happy. 

Grab this Supershield Multipurpose DIY insulation roll if you want to protect your dog from the cold weather. This insulation roll is suitable for all kinds of dog beds and houses. It has the optimum thickness and is very easy to install, shape, and bend. The roll comes along with Tape to Position Insulation, Razor Knife, & Squeegee. You get everything you want to set up an insulated area for your dog.

Dog Socks For Warmth & Grip

What are dog socks? Does something like that really exist? Well, yes, you can dress up your dog with socks. These socks are extremely helpful for the dogs to retain their heat. These socks will not only protect your dog from cold weather but also injuries and cuts. Dog Socks have become very common these days, and also very trendy. 

The biggest challenge with dog socks is getting your pup used to wearing them. Most dogs reject them at first but if your persistent they will get used to them.  Even though they seem silly, having a warm pair of dog socks can help keep your dog warm in the truck bed. It can also give them improved grip for walking around if they are not crated. 

Dress your dog in the SCIROKKO Anti-Slip Dog Socks to protect him from the cold weather. They are all-season doggy socks that allow your dog to be warmer than ever. These dog socks are available in three sizes, small, medium, and large. The anti-slip and adjustable design will keep your pup safe and secure.  

Check them out on Amazon below, you can see user reviews, photos and more photos. 

SCIROKKO Non Slip Dog Socks with Grippers to Prevent Licking Paws for Hardwood Floors - Anti Slip Shoes 3 Pairs Booties Winter Boots Paw Protectors for Small to Large Senior Dogs Prevent Scratching
  • Choose The Right Size For Your Puppy: S - Paw Width 2.15 in, Total Length 5.4 in; M - Paw Width 2.73 in, Total Length 6.1 in; L - Paw Width 3.13 in, Total Length 7 in. It is necessary to measure the width and length of your dog's paws before placing an order, you need to choose based on size not weight. Socks have elasticity, if between two sizes, please choose the smaller one
  • Slip? Won't Happen Again: The double footprint-shaped plastic provides great friction and good grip, allowing your dog to move indoors nimbly without slipping. 3-pack configuration that can be used as a replacement if some socks are lost or damaged
  • Protect Dog Paws: If your dog is not wearing socks, after a day of indoor activities, the dog's paws will become very dirty, and may even be injured by sharp objects on the ground. Wear socks to ensure that the dog's paws The clean, soft bottom dispensing also provides protection for the paws
  • Protect Your Furniture Also: All-season doggy indoor socks prevent your furniture from being damaged. Think of the dog grinding out cracks in your couch, floor, bed, it's a disaster, or you're facing this dilemma, choose the right socks for your dog as soon as possible
  • Summer/Winter gift for your lovely pup to keep warm: The soft and stretchy fabric wraps the pet's paws just right, and the elastic magic strip also secures the socks again so they don't fall out.Note, to prolong the life of the socks, trim your dog's nails before use to avoid wearing out the socks quickly

Last update on 2024-11-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Use An Appropriate Shelter

If you are traveling in extreme colds it may be necessary to use a dog home of some sort or even a crate. Some dogs are used to crates and some are not. It may be necessary however to help keep them warm. Some of the methods below can be used to insulate their crate or space to help keep a dog warm in a truck bed. 

I’ll give you some ideas for ways to insulate your crate below. Keep in mind, all the other methods I list below this section can be combined to help keep your dog warm in the back of your truck. Having a good shelter combined with a good self heating dog pad can be a great way to make sure your dog never gets cold in the back of your truck!

Keep your dog toasty warm in a truck bed by adding some materials to warm up their space. It is not recommended to keep young puppies outside as they are not mature enough to handle the cold. If you have decided to make their shelters in a truck bed, make sure it’s warm enough. 

You can layer the truck bed with lots of straw, old crates, and old clothes or blankets to insulate and keep the warmth in. If you can’t buy insulation rolls, using straw and some old blankets or clothes is a great free option.  Straw is something that is used by many animal owners to help keep their pets or farm animals warm during the cold.

Good grass hay or straw can prevent moisture and provide the dog with a clean, dry, and warm place. Some people use hay in their truck beds all year long. Don’t forget to replace the straw or hay after they have matted down.

The kit below comes with a crate and a cover giving you a good start on keeping your dog warm in a truck bed! They have several different sizes to accommodate your dog! Check it out on Amazon for reviews and more info below. 

MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate Dog Crate Starter Kit 42-Inch Ideal for Large Dog Breeds (weighing 71 - 90 Pounds) Includes Crate With Cover, Pet Bed, 2 Dog Bowls
  • ULTIMATE CONVENIENCE & PERFECT STARTER KIT FOR THE NEW DOG OWNER. Everything you need arrives in 1 carton so you can enjoy more time with your new family member
  • LARGE DOG BREED KIT INCLUDES EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO GET STARTED: 1 fully equipped 2 door iCrate, 1 dog bed, 1 crate cover & 2 (1 quart) pet bowls that affix to the dog crate; Dog crate measures 42L x 28W x 31H inches when assembled
  • STARTER KIT ideal for large dog breeds with adult weight up to 71 - 90 pounds
  • DESIGNED TO FIT & USER FRIENDLY: Fleece pet bed & polyester crate cover fit your dog crate & are machine washable/dryer friendly; 2 inches Snap'y Fit inches dog bowls are designed to attach to the dog crate keeping food & water in one convenient location
  • MIDWEST HOMES FOR PETS QUALITY GUARANTEE: Entire dog crate kit includes 1-Year Manufacturer's Warranty on all products

Last update on 2024-11-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Final Thoughts: Keep A Dog Warm In A Truck Bed

If you are traveling in cold weather, it’s really important to keep your dogs in mind. Just remember that not all dogs need extra heat unless it’s really cold out. It’s really easy to overheat a dog and make them uncomfortable by being too warm. 

The methods above can be accomplished pretty easily and most of them don’t have much cost. Keeping a dog warm in the back of a truck bed should be pretty easy to accomplish even on a budget. 

Make sure to always be safe especially if you are using any kind of heater or electric pads. The most important thing is the dogs safety! 

I hope you enjoyed this content, please make sure to check out some of our other articles all around camping and being in the outdoors! You can check out our YouTube channel as well and check out some of the adventures our a family go on! Start with the video below!

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