I didn't feel like the hounds were secure enough just under the truck cap. I didn't want the truck to be a dedicated dog hauler with a big hulking box in the way so I made this so you can still use the truck as a truck with minimal effort, takes about 5 minutes to remove the lag bolts that hold the two plywood top pieces, the cross piece and the door, all of which I can strap to the top of the cap. I made the part by the bulkhead so there is a little peep hole so I could check on the hounds while driving and monitor the CO detector I mounted on the cross member.
it probably doesn't take much coaching to get them to get in there. Not when it means a hike at the end of the ride. the hay is good idea for wet muddy dogs. I wouldn't have thought of that as we aren't in hay country.
It's quite comfy, I climbed in and layed down with em the first couple of times just so there would be no issues, I could have easily taken a nap in there. The hay is quite pungent, they smell like a barn for several hours after we get home, I might try straw next time.
Nice! About the only thing I might say would help would be a rubber truck bed mat to give the pups better grip vs the painted steel bed. Something like this. http://m.autozone.com/tonneau-cover.../8-cylinders-v-4-8l-sfi/429354_0_0/?location= You can pull it out easily and wash it out. I've seen them for as little as $50.
