I do both. When I am heading out hunting I always use a crate. When I go training or take her training it is hit and miss. If the crate is in the truck already then I will use it if I have to get it out of the garage then I mostlikely will not. If we are going on a trip of any length I use one unless it is just me and the dog going somewhere then I will often times let mine ride in the cab of the truck on the floor. Used to let her on the seat but got tired of tring to get all the little liver colored hairs off the light gry seat!