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When it comes to outdoor dog kennels for backyard, you might want to build it your own. However, you can also purchase it online so you do not need to do the dirty work. On the other hand, building an outdoor dog kennel in the backyard as a DIY project would cost relatively lower compared to purchasing a dog kennel. In this article, we are going to give you some ideas about clever backyard dog kennel ideas.
Also Read: 12 Ideas How to Improve Dog Backyard Landscape
As usual this list is compiled for you by Simphome.com. And you’ll get additional ideas exported from our sister site Tavernierspa.
FYI, this long post consists 4 sections. First section would give you general or basic ideas how to start and finish proper dog kennel projects, continued by second section which consists first 10 DIY dog kennel project samples include a video, followed by third section that contains 2nd ten dog kennel project ideas without video, and finnaly fourth section which featured additional ideas how to build dog kennel, this time without long description or video.
Basic Steps – How to build A Fantastic Dog Kennel:
Are pet dogs happier outside of the house than inside? You probably already noticed. No matter how much you provide wide-open spaces and toys for them indoors, pretty soon they will develop cabin fever; it’s only a matter of time. As far as most dogs are concerned, there’s nothing like the right amount of fresh air to get their energy flowing.
As awesome as this idea may be, there’s still the concern of making sure you rein them in correctly. Though we want to give our pets lots of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, we also don’t want them to lose their way when they make their way out. As you probably already know, dogs can venture far and wide. They can easily get lost or, worse yet, they might get in trouble.
Step 1. Dog Kennels to The Rescue
Dog kennels are the best way to give our dogs all the benefits of the outdoors while at the same time, keeping them nice and safe. While it’s easy getting a dog kennel, picking the right model takes quite a bit of advanced thinking. You have to consider the following factors if the idea of putting together the perfect kennel for your four-legged companion has ever come to your mind.
Step 2. Location
Just like with real estate, when it comes to kennel construction, it’s all about location, location, location. Deciding where to place your pet’s kennel will dictate the overall design of the structure. This decision will also affect the kind of materials that you’re going to use to put it together. You can connect the kennel to your house, garage, or it could be completely detached from your home unit. Depending on where you put it, you can choose between wood, concrete, some sort of composite material, steel, aluminum, and other materials.
Step 3. Size
The next factor to keep in mind is the size of your dog. Remember, the whole point of putting together a kennel is for your dog to enjoy the fresh air and sunlight of the outdoors while at the same time keeping your canine companion nice and comfy. This strategy is a balancing act, and a crucial part of that comfort level is whether they feel restricted. You don’t want to set up a kennel that is very suffocating, stuffy, or otherwise uncomfortable. You don’t want to have your pet develop a negative association between the discomfort they feel staying in the kennel and the kennel itself. At some point, they’re going to prefer anywhere except the enclosure.
The point is to build for them a dog run area so they can enjoy what they do. The ballpark figure for a dog run area connected to your kennel is the following dimensions. It has to be twice as wide and five times as long as your pet. If you stick to these rough parameters, then your pet will have enough space in the kennel.
Step 4. Pay Close Attention to Weather Patterns
It’s also essential to consider the weather patterns in your location. The United States is a vast place, and it has many different climate zones. Keep this in mind, if it gets too hot in your neck of the woods, you might want to provide a reliable shade for your pet in its kennel. This cover also comes in handy when it rains. If it gets cold or snowy out in your area of the country, you must also pay attention to proper insulation. This consideration also means that you must have the right drainage so your dog will not slip or get muddy when rainwater collects or snow melts.
Step 5. Other Features
Other features you should consider when it comes to putting together your kennel is portability. It may be a good idea to come up with something that you can move around. If anything, you might need to move your pet’s kennel from point A to point B, make sure it’s built for this purpose. Similarly, you might want to set the enclosure on some paving stones so if your dog digs, it wouldn’t be a hassle for you. You might also want to consider fencing so you can see each other while at the same time making sure that your pet is properly secured.
Finally, in the area surrounding the kennel, you might want to think about the right kind of ground cover. Typically, you can choose between dirt, gravel, rubber, wood, concrete, and grass, and other materials.
The Final Word
Your goal in putting together a kennel is to build an area for your pet to run around, play with toys, and feel the outdoors. The point is to get them to enjoy all these while still being under your guidance and protection. This project takes quite a bit of planning because you’re going to have to protect them from the rain, the heat, as well as to make sure that they have proper access to food and water.
With a little bit of advanced planning, putting together a winning kennel for both you and your pet is not only possible but highly doable.
10 DIY Ideas How To Build Backyard Dog Kennel Video
Intro:
Dogs are men’s best friends. You might agree with that saying, so you keep a dog at home. They are adorable, but you still need to put them outside so that they won’t poop on your carpet or chew your couch. To ensure your dog’s ultimate comfort outside, why don’t you make a kennel?
Dog kennels are great place for your dog to rest when playing outside. There are many choices to purchase. However, why buying a doghouse if you can make it yourself so that you can choose suitable materials and size for the kennel?
Spoiler, this next video is running under 10 minutes and I already enriched it with nice invisible voice over, music, and video graphic assets that would always be pure and unexploit until you press play or triangle button.
1st 10 DIY Ideas How To Build Backyard Dog Kennel Project Entries:
Next, I am about to give you first 10 DIY ideas on how to build backyard dog kennel that you can use to improve your backyard landscape or someone’s else backyard, close to your heart. As usual, this first 10 list is compiled, edited, finished, and published for you by Simphome.
10. Modern Dog Kennel idea
Apparently, a dog kennel can be as stylish as a modern house. The simple design, sloped roof, and bold color denote modern style well. If you decide to use this design for your dog kennel, here are the steps of how to do it.
First, build the deck. Then, make the house frame separately. Set the frame on the deck to make sure its size fit your dog. Screw the frame in place. After that, add the sidings. When the sides are finished, trim the top to fit the angle. Add the front slat and leave the door open.
The next step, is painting the house. It will be much better if the paint complement your house. Then, trim the door and add a canopy. You can add boxes using scraps on the sides to plant flowers or to put your dog toys. Finally, add roof slats. Finish the kennel by decorating it to your taste.
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9. Dog Kennel idea with Concrete Floor
Kennel run is an alternative for your doghouse. It provides shelter, yet it has space for your dog to romp. However, you should carefully design it based on the guidelines provided by experienced canine caretakers.
The standard dimension of kennel run (about 48 inches width and 12 feet or more in length) allows the dogs to urinate at the farthest end from the entry. The narrow width enables you to easily scoop the poop with a short shovel and turn around to dump it into a container.
Most designers prefer to use concrete for the floor. Although it is more expensive than gravel, it is tougher and more long lasting. To avoid cracking, buckling, or splitting, you can use the combination of rebar, wire and high quality cement. Using gravel for under layer will help keeping the concrete from cracking. Make sure the is sloped so water will run off without leaving puddles.
8. Knock-Down Dog Kennel Idea
Knock-down design is best if you want something lighter and movable, just like this kennel. It is easy to be moved around and cleaned. It also features solar heating system that allows your dog to stay warm when it is in the kennel. You can easily switch the kennel around or left off the walls and change which side the door and windows are on. Although it comes in knock-down design, it is sturdy enough for the dog to sit on.
You can make it from torsion box which is strong and rigid. The material allows you to give more insulation to the doghouse. Don’t forget to install the windows so that the sunlight can pass through and the fresh air can come into the kennel.
7. Elegant Pallet Dog Kennel Idea
Making a chic kennel isn’t always pricey. You can even make it from some leftover like pallets. Start by building the base deck using solid and uncut pallet. Plymouth overlay will make the surface look smoother. Next, build the frame (base, raised boundaries, and roof beams) using slats. Leave some space for a veranda. Make sure the frame is attached correctly and securely. The next step is filling the frame with pallet planks vertically. Use seesaw to trim the top.
After that, start working the roof bottom up from behind in overlapping style and sloped roof for the veranda. Nail extra slats trimming on the sides of the roof. Lastly, apply stain coat to add appeal and to be protect it from the weather.
6. A Simple yet Comfy Dog Kennel Idea
Airy and fresh. This simple kennel is comfortable enough for your dog to sleep. To make this safe haven, put together the base and the frame to form walls and roof. Nail or screw the wood planks few inch apart to make the walls. Then attach slats for the roof. Add a mattress inside to add more comfort.
5. Air-Conditioned Dog Kennel Idea
Designing an air-conditioned dog kennel is a challenge because of the dog’s habit that chews anything. It is possible that the dog will find the cable and treat it as a toy. Therefore, the installation should be put outside the kennel. One of the posts can be used to place an outlet. You can bury the exterior conduit and wire to prevent the dog from chewing it.
Other than air conditioned and electrically equipped, the kennel should have door big enough for a person to get inside for maintenance. On the other hand, it also have doggy sized window and door. Because lumber tends to invite termites, treat it with stilt foundation to make it las longer.
4. Stylish Dog Kennel with Shingles Siding Idea
Classic. I think It’s a word that pop into your mind when looking at this dog house. A bungalow miniature that is not only give shelter for your dog, but add appeal to your backyard.
Shingles are made of ripped cedar shims which is glued to the siding and roof. An overlapping roof keep it watertight. It needs patience to put the shingles one by one but the result is overwhelming.
3. Contemporary Dog Kennel Project Idea
First step is deciding the spot to put the kennel. Level the ground and place patio brick for under base. Then pick some wood and make the basic skeleton. When the frame is finished, start working the floor and the walls using plywood. For the front wall, cut out the plywood for door and window. Use 2 x 8 inch to hold the glass window in place (top and bottom, back and front).
The next step is working the roof. You can either build then install the roof on the kennel or directly assemble it. Next, decorate the interior using linoleum flooring. Then, paint the walls and cover the roof with linoleum materials.
2. Sturdy Duplex Dog Kennel Project Idea
This design of duplex is perfect for two dogs. You need to build the walls first. Make sure each wall consists of three vertical studs. Then place horizontal studs in the middle. The next step is joining the walls together.
Now place plywood or recycled solid core door in the middle of the kennel to divide it into two rooms. Next, corrugated tin is cut to make roof. Make sure, the edge extended for an inch or two and there are overlaps between each sheet. Last, cover the top ridge with ridge cap.
1. Mid-Century Modern Dog Kennel
Apparently, dogs are also crazy about Mid-Century modern homes, just like this one. It can be seen on the eight degree angle cut, the dark ebony wood frame, and white paint.
Spice up the kennel by applying artificial grass. First, you need to measure the floor before cutting the layer. Then glue and lay it carefully on the kennel floor to make it stay in place. You can also add a lively lift by adding artificial succulent.
Done,
So, a dog house is not only for shelter but also creating a new look in your backyard. And these 10 ideas on how to build backyard dog kennels will give your dog the ultimate comfort and safety while beefing up your backyard. For more relevant inspiration, continue reading second section of this post.
2nd 10 Clever Ideas of How to build Backyard Dog Kennel:
1. Wide Dog Kennel
Since a dog kennel should be comfortable for the dog inside, you should provide ample space so they can move around. The main features of the picture we have seen above are such as a safety fence, wood planks for flooring, and wide space so the dog could run around without harming itself. The fence would not hurt the dog and while it actively runs around.
This dog kennel can be made by purchasing a dog kennel fence at the pet store or some online stores and you just need to provide the flooring. This dog kennel might be suitable for medium-sized dogs.
Image: Damidam.club
2. House Dog Kennel for the Backyard
The next model is the one that looks like a house. It even looks like a chicken house. However, this would be a nice idea for a dog kennel as well. You can provide pet litter inside the house while two dog doors are installed so perfectly so your dog can do his business in private.
The size is pretty wide and enough to allow them running around and get some fresh air while you can do your activity. A kennel will also allow your pet to get a safer space to run around in the backyard.
Image: Fallinpets.com
3. Tall Dog Kennel
Since the kennel is tall, you can let three small dogs play around in this place. Fresh air is important for your pet. This is why providing adequate outdoor space for your pet is also essential. The fence is made of wires with small gaps so your small pets would not hurt themselves.
We often see that curious dogs would push around their kennel fence so they can go outside. If you provide toys inside the cage, your dogs would love to stay still inside the kennel.
Image: Pinterest
4. Small Dog Kennel
If your backyard is not too big but you want to keep your dog outside, you can make this one as you saw in the picture. To provide proper temperature and circulate the air inside the kennel, you can install a fan as well.
Some people just prefer to keep their dog outside for some reasons. If you also need to keep them outside your house, this idea might be one of the best one. Your pet would stay safely outside while it will not take up too much space in your backyard.
Image: Mstrpic.blogspot.com
5. Wooden Dog Kennel
This one in the picture is for you who want to keep the dog outside without leaving the aesthetic point. This wooden dog kennel would fit well if your backyard is shaded. It will also be a good place for your dog to take food and drink.
Having a dog kennel in the backyard is one of many ways to separate the life of your pets and your own life. This is also good if you do not want your dogs to get into your bed, couch, or leave their hairs anywhere inside the house.
Image: Warnet.ws
6. Sauna-Looking Dog Kennel
We call it sauna-looking dog kennel because it looks like a sauna from the outside. On the other hand, it provides a safe space for your dog to play around. Keeping them in the backyard in the morning is good to give your dog fresh air. In the meantime, you can also clean the whole house without the interruption.
This dog kennel can accommodate a few small dogs or one big dog. Make sure the size is well measured so it will not make the dog depressed or stressed due to too small cage or too big kennel. Image: Pinterest.com
7. Medium-Sized Dog Kennel
This one is ideal for you who want to provide enough space for the dog. The size is neither too big nor too small so it will fit even a small backyard. The presence of a roof will protect your dogs against sunlight and rain. So, every time you need time to clean the house without distraction, this dog kennel will keep your dog safe.
The red color also shows how warm it looks. Do not forget to provide a pet door so your dog could go inside and outside the house freely. Image: garagetoolsstorage.com
8. Big-Sized Dog Kennel
This dog kennel in the picture is suitable for big dogs and big backyards. In this kennel, you can keep two big dogs and several small dogs so they can interact with each other while they are outside. The kennel is built with proper roofing and windows. Its H3 wire fences would keep your dog inside safely. Rain and sunlight would not interfere with the good time your dogs are having. However, you need a generous space in your backyard so you can have this kennel. Image: Pinterest.com
9. Portable Dog Kennel with Shade
This dog kennel can be purchased online. If you want to allow your dog staying there a little longer without getting interrupted by the weather, you can add a mat or other flooring materials. Installing shade will protect your dog from the sunlight. If the weather is sunny, your dog could stay under the shade as well. The shade can be done by the DIY project while the fence is available in some pet shop and other online stores.
The kennel dog on the picture can accommodate three medium-sized dogs or two big dogs or several small-sized dogs. Image: Pintereset.com
10. Simple Dog Kennel
So, if you want something simpler for your German shepherd or other big dogs, the dog kennel in the picture seems suitable. It looks simple yet appealing. It only requires proper fencing and a roof that can be installed easily. However, the grass should be good enough for your dogs considering it has no flooring. Image:Pinterest
And this is anything you need to know about clever designs of dog kennel ideas.
Additional Relevant Ideas:
In the next section, you’ll find bonus images exported from my sister site Tavernierspa.com. It consists more than 10 ideas and if you like it, you can share it with your loyal friends in Pinterest or anywhere else. Enjoy
Video References:
10. Woodshopdiaries, 9. Gundogmag, 8. Instructables, 7. DIYCraftsy, 6. Jenwoodhouse, 5. Instructables, 4. Thisoldhouse, 3. Instructables, 2. Instructables, 1. DIYinspired
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