Whether your dog is a working companion or a beloved family pet, these practical insights will help you pick the ideal outdoor kennel.
Your outdoor dog is a loyal and irreplaceable part of the family. That means one of the biggest decisions you'll face is figuring out where your four-legged companion will live. When keeping your dog indoors isn't practical, you'll need to provide an outdoor shelter that is both safe and comfortable all year long.
A well-built outdoor dog kennel is the answer. It offers your pup room to roam while shielding them from rain, wind, and harsh sun. Yet with so many styles, sizes, and features on the market, knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. What matters most? Which design details are essential for your specific breed?
You're in the right place. We have deep experience designing and sourcing top-notch outdoor dog kennels, and we're here to make sure you find exactly the right one. Below are four key tips to guide your decision.
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Determine the Right Size
Nothing is worse than investing in an outdoor kennel only to discover it's too small for your dog to move freely. If you plan on housing more than one pet, that adds another layer of sizing requirements to consider.
Here's how to find the correct dimensions for your outdoor dog kennel:
Measure each dog's height, length, and body width. If you have a puppy, research the average full-grown size for their breed so you can plan ahead.
Add roughly 9 inches to the tallest dog's height and about 18 inches to the longest dog's length. Then combine the total body width of every dog and add around 12 inches per animal.
These calculations give you the minimum space your kennel requires. It's always wise to go a bit larger — you may add another dog down the road, or your current pup might appreciate extra room. Don't forget outdoor play space, too; dogs should be able to step in and out of their shelter easily whenever they want.
TIP: If the kennel will serve as your dog's permanent home, consider a larger model with amenities like an insulated interior room and a built-in outdoor run with heavy-duty chain-link fencing.
Settle on the Best Location
After nailing down the right size, your next task is choosing where to place the kennel. Many of these decisions come down to personal preference, but the location you pick should ultimately keep your dog protected and comfortable.
Placement factors to think about:
Do you want the kennel far enough from the house so nighttime barking is muffled? Remember to think about neighbors, too.
What type of foundation works best — gravel, a concrete slab, or the existing lawn?
Is there a shady spot that reduces direct sun exposure throughout most of the day?
Does your yard have drainage issues? If so, raising the kennel off the ground helps prevent standing water and moisture buildup.
Are there garden beds, buried utility lines, or sprinkler systems nearby that you should avoid?
Evaluate Your Climate & Environment
Your outdoor kennel needs to stand up to whatever weather your region throws at it, especially if your dog will live outside year-round. Choosing a kennel engineered for your local conditions means both you and your pet can rest easy.
Ventilation
Whether it's frigid winter air or blazing summer heat, proper airflow is essential for your dog's health. Good ventilation prevents overheating on scorching days and stops mold from taking hold in damp, humid conditions. A ridge vent along the roofline or a few strategically positioned openings usually does the job.
Precipitation
A leak-proof kennel is non-negotiable for your dog's wellbeing. Opt for a slanted roofline that sheds water quickly, and confirm that every window, vent, and dog door is tightly sealed. Moisture intrusion can lead to mold and discomfort, so waterproofing details matter.
Temperature
To keep your dog cozy in every season, pay attention to prevailing wind patterns when positioning the kennel. As a general rule, avoid pointing the entrance northward. In colder climates, kennels with insulated interior rooms offer valuable extra warmth and protection from harsh conditions.
Decide Whether to Build or Buy
Once you've settled on the right size, location, and environmental needs, there's one more big choice: do you build the kennel yourself, or purchase a ready-made solution?
If you're the handy type with spare weekends and solid woodworking skills, a DIY kennel can be a rewarding project. With the right blueprints, tools, and a bit of creativity, constructing your own shelter is absolutely achievable.
That said, a project of this scale goes beyond a typical weekend task. Sometimes it's better to kick back, enjoy a cup of coffee, and let the experts handle it. Purchasing a professionally built kennel saves time, eliminates guesswork, and gives you peace of mind knowing every detail has been handled by specialists.
Our premium, low-maintenance outdoor kennels feature:
Generous Sizing Options
Chain-Link Fencing
Insulated Interior Room
Plexiglass Dog Doors
Feed Room (Large Models)
Weather-Resistant Roofing
Run with Poly Decking
Insulated Fiberglass Door
Durable, Decay-Proof Flooring
Ready to Give Your Dog the Shelter They Deserve?
Explore our professionally built kennel shed kit — complete with an attached outdoor run for your furry companion.
Start Planning Your Dog's Perfect Outdoor Home
Now that you know what to look for, you're well on your way to finding the perfect outdoor dog kennel. From sizing and placement to weather readiness and the build-vs-buy decision, every detail matters when it comes to your pet's safety and comfort. Explore our full range of kennel options to find the ideal match for your backyard and your best friend.