backyard dog run
All dogs — from the laziest Basset hound to the most athletic greyhound — need the chance to stretch their legs, run around, chase their tails, and play on a daily basis.
Like humans, exercise helps dogs stay healthy throughout their lives, staving off problems like stiffness, fatigue, weight gain and its associated health problems.
Dogs that don’t get enough exercise can engage in destructive behavior (like digging or chewing), become hyperactive, or bark incessantly in response to this unmet need.
How To Build A Backyard Dog Kennel
You can build your pet a dog run, which will give your pooch a safe place to zoom around to his heart’s content—all while protecting your yard and your pocket book.
In this article, we’ll provide a ton of dog run ideas as well as the benefits of installing a dog run, the advantages and disadvantages of different types of dog runs, how to design one for your pet’s specific needs, and what materials you’ll need to construct the perfect play area for your pet.
A dog run is any dedicated outdoor space or structure for your pooch to run free, scratch, roll, and be her delightful canine self.
Outdoor Dog Kennel Ideas And Designs
You may hear it go by many different names like pet area, backyard dog kennel, dog potty area, etc., but these are the same thing in essence.
Some breeds even grow anxious or destructive without it and will dig, pace back and forth (creating ruts), or scratch to get the exercise they need.
A dog run provides a designated area for your dog to run, play, and go to the bathroom without destroying your yard.
Steps To Build A Dog Run 2021
Whatever the reason for the separation, having a dog run gives you options on how to situate your dogs for a happy, peaceful household.
Whatever your reasons for needing one, a dog run in your backyard is an excellent investment if you want your furry friend to have a safe place to enjoy and exercise while you are busy.
It should be proportionate to the size and exercise needs of your dog—St. Bernards and great danes will naturally need bigger spaces than Basset hounds and shih tzus.
Amazon.com: Magic Union Dog Kennel Outdoor Metal Dog Cage Outside Dog Fence Pet Enclosure Fencing With Water Resistant Cover Roof Backyard Dog Run House (basic)
A simple design with four sides and a roof may be all your pup needs and can be constructed/installed in a short time.
![Dog Run Ideas [Free DIY Plans And Tips For A Backyard Your Dog Will Love!] - Backyard Dog Run](https://i1.wp.com/www.outdoorhappens.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/chainlink-dog-run-ideas-plans-1024x1024.jpeg?strip=all "Dog Run Ideas [Free DIY Plans And Tips For A Backyard Your Dog Will Love!]")
Another added benefit of a dedicated dog run is to provide your pups with mentally-stimulating activities to keep them occupied and out of trouble.
Some dogs aren’t compatible with dog toys—either the dog isn’t interested in the toys or the toys aren’t durable enough to withstand the dog’s teeth.
How To Build The Perfect Dog Kennel
This can be as simple as adding rocks and pet-friendly plants to create texture or as elaborate as installing ramps, hoops, or tires as a canine obstacle course.
Providing them with a large, unrestricted, open space to run and play will keep them from barking, chewing, digging, and destroying your yard.
The more energy your dog burns while outside, the less energy it will have to destroy things when you bring it inside.
Dog Run Ideas [free Diy Plans And Tips For A Backyard Your Dog Will Love!]
Dogs that get the chance to run around a large yard are often more docile and cuddly when they come back in the house.
Even if your yard is tiny or you live in an apartment, you can create a small dog run for your furry friend with minimal space.
By training them in a single, enclosed area, you eliminate the option for the pup to wander off or get distracted by her surroundings.
Dog Kennel Outdoor Metal Dog Cage Outside Dog Fence Pet Enclosure Fencing With Water Resistant Cover Roof Backyard Dog Run House (basic)
If this is an option for you, building a dog run could be as easy as putting a fence or gate at each end of the side yard.
Now that you’re familiar with the different options of dog run designs, let’s get down to how to construct the perfect place for your pooch.
Your pet area can be small and simple, or large and complex, but taking the following steps will help your project proceed smoothly.
Professional, Outdoor & Backyard Kennels
If possible, avoid steep slopes that may erode under the high traffic of a running dog or be problematic for her to get up once she gets older.
Certain grasses, plants, and mushrooms can be toxic to dogs, so steer clear of spots where these things are growing or have grown in the past.
There isn’t a mathematical formula to calculate this, but the dog run should be long enough or large enough for your dog to turn around comfortably and run for several paces before reversing course.
All About Artificial Turf Dog Runs
Your pup will likely use all of the space you give him (whether that’s a few square yards or an acre), though no dog will complain of having too much space to roam!
Regulations – Your town regulations or HOA rules may require you to obtain a permit prior to constructing your dog run depending on its height and size. Check with your local governing body to see if a permit is required for your design before you start to build.
Roofing – If your dog is a jumper or a climber, be sure to add a roof or top panel to your dog run. Even docile, small dogs will benefit from a roof as it will deter threats from any wild animals (coyotes, raccoons or foxes) that may roam your area.
Are Backyard Dog Runs Good For Dogs?
Access – Take practical usage into consideration as you plan out your dog run. If you plan on placing the enclosure adjacent to an exterior door that has a doggie door, design the run to be tall enough for you to conveniently use the door to access the area.
Height – You’ll probably need to enter the dog run at some point to clean it or check on your dog.Make the area tall enough so you can do so without crawling or stooping. Even if your dog is short, make sure the pet area accommodates human guests as well.
Lock – Smart, agile dogs may be able to manipulate a simple latch. Choose a locking mechanism that makes it easy for you to get in but hard for your dog to get out. Place it high enough on the gate so your dog will have a tough time getting to it.
Doggy John: How To Build A Flushable Dog Run
If your dog starts to wear down the grass in one spot, you can move the dog run to give the grass a chance to recover (though you’ll be stuck with a brown spot in the meantime).
Unlike a portable pet area, a built-in dog run is a functional part of the landscaping, so it blends in better aesthetically.
Though they require more time and money initially than portable dog runs, they don’t ever need to be moved, and they can be built strong enough to contain the largest and most active of dogs.
Backyard Dog Kennel Ideas Metal Dog House
Choose fencing that will be sturdy enough to stand up to the inevitable chewing, pawing, jumping, and climbing that your dog will do.
If your dog is a digger, be sure your fence goes down far enough or has a concrete foundation to prevent her from escaping the enclosure.
Opting for a wrought iron fence elevates the dog run from a functional area to an ornamental feature of your backyard landscape.
Should I Build Or Buy A Dog Kennel Run?
If you go with a metal option, be sure the fencing doesn’t have gaps wide enough for your dog’s head to fit through or fancy features like scrollwork that could scrape or poke the dog by accident.
You may be able to build a dog run on existing ground cover if it is safe for your pet and allows for proper drainage.
However, in the Texas summer heat, gravel can become too hot for pets if it’s in direct sunlight for much of the day.
Cheap Easy Dog Run To Build
Fake grass for dogs has the springy feeling and beautiful, natural look of grass, but it isn’t susceptible to ruts or brown patches like a regular lawn.
Artificial turf dog run cleaning & maintenance doesn’t require any of the expensive lawn care equipment
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