October is National Animal Safety and Protection Month – a timely reminder for pet owners to prioritize their furry companions’ safety, especially while traveling. Too many dogs ride unrestrained, and typical household crates offer little protection in the event of a crash.
The Gunner G1 Kennel is a double-walled crate designed to protect dogs during travel, offering impact protection, superior thermal regulation, and thoughtful design features that make long trips safer and more comfortable for dogs.
Part of Gunner’s limited 2025 Flyway Series and made in America, this crate is backed by a 5-Star Crash Test rating from the Center for Pet Safety. So, while it is an investment, it could save your dog’s life next time they’re in the car with you.
A key aspect of the G1’s design is the emphasis on a snug, den-like fit. Gunner recommends that dogs have just enough room to sit and turn around, but not stretch excessively. This minimizes the dog’s movement during sudden stops, reducing the forces experienced during a collision, much as a seatbelt protects a human passenger.
Gunner’s sizing resources, including breed guides, interactive quizzes, and user-submitted dog profiles, make it simple to select the right size for your dog and vehicle. For example, the Intermediate size has an interior base of approximately 30 inches by 18 inches with a 25-inch height, allowing dogs to sit upright comfortably while still maintaining a snug fit.
The crate is thoughtfully designed for thermal regulation and comfort. Its double-wall construction stabilizes interior temperature, keeping dogs cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. The crate may warm slightly in direct sunlight, but the interior remains protected from extreme heat thanks to insulation, similar to an insulated bottle. Optional accessories, including a fan kit, a bolster or pillow, and a Gunner bowl, further enhance comfort on long road trips.
While the G1 excels in safety, its size and weight may be an issue for some users. The Intermediate crate weighs around 48 pounds, and while the carry handles assist, moving it alone can be challenging. Owners should also plan carefully for vehicle placement and emergency access, especially if the crate is positioned in a cargo area or truck bed.
Keep your dog safe when you’re on the road with the Gunner G1 Dog Crate. (Gunner)
Crash testing
The Gunner G1 Kennel is the original 5 Star Crash-Tested dog crate recognized by the Center for Pet Safety. Nearly nine out of 10 crates fail these stringent tests, yet the G1 consistently protects dogs even in severe collisions.
When paired with Gunner’s custom tie-down straps, the crate remains securely anchored during high-impact events, including rollovers. These results are confirmed by both controlled crash testing and verified customer experiences. The stories are compelling. For example, verified customer Nova recounted surviving a 70 mph rollover on the highway with her dog completely unharmed. Kendall M. reported her chocolate lab emerged from a 65 mph crash with an oak tree unscathed, while the crate crushed a steel toolbox bolted inside her truck.
You can find detailed information on their crash-testing results on their website and at the Center for Pet Safety:
Specs
Materials: Double-walled, high-strength plastic
Sizes: Small, Medium, Intermediate, and Large
Features: 5 Star Crash Tested, lifetime guarantee, superior thermal properties, proceeds to waterfowl and wetlands conservation group Ducks Unlimited
What we like
Exceptional real-world crash protection, verified by customers and CPS testing
Den-like interior improves safety by reducing movement in accidents
Thermal regulation keeps dogs comfortable in a range of temperatures
Lifetime guarantee ensures long-term durability
Limited edition series supports wildlife conservation
What we didn’t like
Price point is high ($550-$700)
Tie-down straps sold separately
Bulkiness and weight make the crate less portable and harder to place in some vehicles
Who should buy a Gunner G1 Kennel? (Gunner)
Final thoughts on the Gunner G1 Kennel
For National Animal Safety and Protection Month (or any time of year), the Gunner G1 Kennel is an excellent choice for dog owners who prioritize safety while they travel. Its double-walled construction, verified 5 Star Crash Test rating, and snug, den-like interior make it a life-saving investment for pets in vehicles.
Verified customer stories highlight real-world examples of the kennel’s protective performance, reinforcing what lab tests already prove. While the crate is heavy and bulky, Gunner’s sizing resources and optional tie-down straps help ensure optimal use.
Backed by a lifetime guarantee and part of a series supporting Ducks Unlimited, the G1 offers both safety and social responsibility.
Here’s how we choose products to recommend to you. Prices are accurate at the time of publication and subject to change.
This article originally published at Gunner G1 Dog Crate review: Dog owners swear by this crash-tested kennel.
