Ducks Unlimited Bedford Kennel Cover Review

Let’s Talk About Ducks Unlimited Bedford Kennel Cover

The Ducks Unlimited Bedford Kennel Cover promises to be a durable and weather-resistant solution for keeping your canine companion comfortable during kennel runs. Designed with a Mossy Oak Bottomland pattern, it caters to the outdoor enthusiast who wants their dog’s gear to blend seamlessly with the environment. As someone who has spent over a decade field-testing tactical and outdoor gear, I was eager to see if this kennel cover lives up to its claims, especially given the demanding conditions hunting dogs often face.

My own need for a kennel cover stemmed from years of wrestling with tarps and makeshift solutions to protect my retrievers during duck season. I was looking for something that offered reliable weather protection, ease of use, and durability to withstand the rigors of transport and outdoor exposure. The listed weather-resistant poly exterior, tie-down D-rings, and rubber mesh windows piqued my interest, promising a more refined solution than what I was currently using.

Upon receiving the Ducks Unlimited Bedford Kennel Cover, my initial impression was positive; the material felt substantial, and the Mossy Oak Bottomland camo pattern looked well-executed. The construction appeared solid, though the soft poly fill raised questions about its long-term durability and cleanability. Compared to other kennel covers I’ve seen (typically basic vinyl or canvas), the Bedford Kennel Cover seemed a step up in terms of design and intended comfort.

I had considered a heavy-duty canvas cover from a local outfitter, but its price was nearly double that of the Ducks Unlimited Bedford Kennel Cover. I also looked at a cheaper, universal-fit vinyl cover online, but its flimsy construction and lack of ventilation raised concerns about my dog’s safety and comfort, particularly in warm weather. My first impression was cautiously optimistic – I hoped the Ducks Unlimited Bedford Kennel Cover would strike a balance between price, durability, and functionality.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Ducks Unlimited Bedford Kennel Cover to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Ducks Unlimited Bedford Kennel Cover took place during a weekend duck hunting trip to the Louisiana marsh. I used it to cover my dog’s kennel in the back of my truck during transport and then again at the hunting camp to provide shelter from the wind and occasional rain. The cover fit snugly over the kennel, and the tie-down D-rings proved useful for securing it to the truck bed, preventing it from flapping in the wind during the drive.

The weather was relatively mild (around 50 degrees Fahrenheit) with intermittent showers. The weather-resistant poly exterior did a decent job of repelling the rain, keeping the inside of the kennel relatively dry. The rubber mesh windows provided adequate ventilation, preventing the kennel from becoming stuffy. After the first use, I noticed a few mud splatters on the cover, but they wiped off easily with a damp cloth.

The ease of use was a definite plus. I simply slipped the cover over the kennel and secured it with the tie-down straps. No need for complicated adjustments or extra hardware. However, I did notice that the removable window flaps were a bit fiddly to secure in the open position, and I worried about losing them in the field.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, primarily during hunting season and occasional trips to the dog park, the Ducks Unlimited Bedford Kennel Cover has held up reasonably well. There are some signs of wear and tear, particularly around the edges and corners, where the poly material has started to fray slightly. The Mossy Oak Bottomland camo pattern has also faded a bit from sun exposure.

Cleaning the cover has been relatively easy, but the soft poly fill poses a challenge. It tends to absorb odors, and it’s difficult to completely remove dirt and moisture from the fill. I’ve had to resort to spot cleaning with a mild detergent and allowing the cover to air dry thoroughly.

Compared to my previous experiences with tarps and makeshift kennel covers, the Ducks Unlimited Bedford Kennel Cover offers a significant improvement in terms of convenience and weather protection. It’s not as durable as a custom-made canvas cover, but it’s also much more affordable and easier to transport. It hasn’t outperformed a dedicated, heavy-duty, weather-proofed cover, but it certainly provides much better protection and comfort than simply leaving the kennel exposed.

Breaking Down the Features of Ducks Unlimited Bedford Kennel Cover

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Ducks Unlimited. A well-known brand associated with conservation efforts.
• Color: Mossy Oak Bottomland. Offers effective camouflage in wooded and marshy environments.
• Fabric/Material: Poly. Provides water resistance but may not be as durable as canvas or nylon.
• Additional Features: Medium. Indicates the size of the cover, suitable for medium-sized kennels.
• Weather resistant poly exterior: Designed to repel water and protect the kennel from the elements. This is essential for keeping your dog dry and comfortable.
• Dual top carry handles: Allow for easy transport and handling of the cover. Makes it convenient to move the cover with or without the kennel inside.
• Four D-rings for tie down: Provide secure attachment points for anchoring the cover to a vehicle or the ground. Prevents the cover from blowing away in windy conditions.
• Rubber mesh windows: Offer ventilation and visibility for the dog. The rubber mesh is durable and resistant to tearing.
• Removable window flaps: Allow for adjustable ventilation and weather protection. Can be closed to block out wind and rain or opened to allow for airflow.

Performance & Functionality

The Ducks Unlimited Bedford Kennel Cover performs its primary function – providing weather protection and comfort for the dog – adequately. It’s not a bombproof shelter, but it does offer a noticeable improvement over leaving the kennel exposed to the elements. The water-resistant exterior keeps out light rain and wind, while the ventilation windows prevent overheating.

The main weakness is its durability. The poly material is prone to fraying and tearing, particularly with heavy use or exposure to sharp objects. The removable window flaps are also a potential point of failure, as they are only secured with Velcro and can be easily lost. It meets expectations for a product in its price range, but don’t expect it to last for years of hard use without some wear and tear.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Ducks Unlimited Bedford Kennel Cover is functional and aesthetically pleasing. The Mossy Oak Bottomland camo pattern blends in well with natural surroundings, and the dual top carry handles make it easy to transport. The cover is lightweight and easy to install, with no complicated adjustments required.

The user-friendliness is a strong point; there’s virtually no learning curve. However, the placement and design of the removable window flaps could be improved. They are somewhat cumbersome to secure in the open position and prone to detaching in windy conditions.

Durability & Maintenance

As mentioned earlier, durability is a concern. The poly material is not as robust as canvas or nylon, and the stitching could be reinforced in high-stress areas. With careful use and proper maintenance, the cover should last for a few seasons of moderate use.

Maintenance is relatively simple – spot cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. However, the soft poly fill can be difficult to clean thoroughly, and it’s important to allow the cover to air dry completely to prevent mildew growth.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Ducks Unlimited Bedford Kennel Cover does not come with any additional accessories beyond the removable window flaps. There are no customization options available, such as the ability to add extra pockets or reinforced panels. It is designed to fit standard-sized kennels, so compatibility with aftermarket accessories is limited. It’s primarily a standalone product designed for simple, straightforward use.

Pros and Cons of Ducks Unlimited Bedford Kennel Cover

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Who Should Buy Ducks Unlimited Bedford Kennel Cover?

The Ducks Unlimited Bedford Kennel Cover is perfect for hunters, casual campers, and dog owners who need a convenient and affordable way to protect their dog’s kennel from the elements. It’s ideal for those who prioritize portability and ease of use over extreme durability. This product is a great option for anyone who needs a quick solution for keeping their dog comfortable in various outdoor conditions.

Those who need a heavy-duty kennel cover for extreme weather conditions or frequent, rugged use should skip this product. Professional trainers, serious survivalists, or anyone who needs a bombproof shelter for their dog would be better off investing in a custom-made canvas or nylon cover. They may need a cover specifically rated for intense durability and frequent wear and tear.

A must-have accessory would be extra Velcro strips for securing the removable window flaps, as the original Velcro is prone to wearing out. Additionally, consider purchasing a waterproof spray to enhance the water resistance of the poly exterior, especially for use in heavy rain.

Conclusion on Ducks Unlimited Bedford Kennel Cover

The Ducks Unlimited Bedford Kennel Cover offers a good balance of weather protection, convenience, and affordability. While it’s not the most durable kennel cover on the market, it’s a significant improvement over makeshift solutions like tarps, and provides a decent level of comfort for your dog during outdoor activities. The Mossy Oak Bottomland camo pattern is a nice touch for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.

The price is justified for what you get – a functional and aesthetically pleasing kennel cover that provides adequate protection from the elements. For casual users, the convenience and portability are worth the investment.

I would personally recommend the Ducks Unlimited Bedford Kennel Cover to anyone who needs a reliable and affordable way to protect their dog’s kennel from the elements. However, be aware of its limitations in terms of durability, and consider investing in a more robust option if you need a cover for extreme conditions or frequent, rugged use. Consider investing in this product and ensure your canine companion is always comfortable and protected.