Constructing A Safe Dog Kennel With Chicken Wire

Building a dog kennel with chicken wire is a simple and economical option for dog owners with spacious backyards. Chicken wire is easy to install, even for novice builders, and can be attached to the kennel using hog rings or J-clips. This material is also a cheap alternative to traditional fencing and can be used to create a dedicated play area for your dog, keeping them safe and away from toxic plants, dangerous people, and other animals. If built properly, a chicken wire dog kennel will last for years with minimal maintenance.

Attaching chicken wire to the kennel

Chicken wire is a great option for building a dog kennel if you're looking for something simple, economical, and easy to install. It's also a good way to ensure your dog's safety and keep them from escaping or getting lost.

When attaching chicken wire to your dog kennel, there are a few methods you can use to ensure a secure and sturdy attachment. One popular method is to use hog rings. Hog rings are inexpensive and, when used with hog-ring pliers, make it easy to stretch the chicken wire tight and straight. This method is faster than using wire or bundle ties.

Another option for attaching chicken wire is to use J-clips or J-clamps. These can be crimped using a J-clamp crimper, although this tool may be hard to find.

It's important to ensure that the chicken wire is attached securely and that the kennel is built properly to withstand your dog's weight and prevent them from escaping. The height of the kennel should be such that your dog cannot jump over it, and the holes in the chicken wire should be small enough that your dog cannot climb out.

By following these instructions and tips, you can effectively attach chicken wire to your dog kennel, creating a safe and dedicated play area for your furry friend.

Choosing the right wood

When building a dog kennel, it is important to choose the right wood to ensure the safety and comfort of your dog. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the type of wood for your kennel:

Type of Wood

The type of wood you choose for your dog kennel is important, as some woods are more durable and weather-resistant than others. Nordic pine is a common choice for outdoor dog kennels due to its comfort and durability. Other types of wood, such as cedar or redwood, are also suitable options as they are naturally resistant to rot and insect damage.

Treatment of Wood

It is important to ensure that the wood you choose for your kennel is safe for your dog. Some woods are treated with harsh chemicals that can be toxic to dogs. Look for wood that has been naturally treated or use a sealant specifically designed for dog kennels to protect the wood and ensure your dog's safety.

Size and Shape

Consider the size and shape of the kennel you want to build, and choose wood that is appropriate for your design. For example, if you plan to build a large kennel, you will need to use a stronger type of wood that can support the structure. The shape of the kennel may also dictate the type of wood you choose, as some woods are more flexible and easier to work with for curved designs.

Flooring Options

The flooring you choose for your dog kennel is crucial for your dog's comfort and sanitation. Sealed flooring options, such as Polyurea Floor Coating, are easy to clean and provide good grip for your dog. Kennel decking is another popular choice as it provides good airflow, maintains neutral temperatures, and is durable against scratching and chewing. However, consider the gaps between the slats, as they may accumulate grime and odours over time.

Assembly

Keep in mind that wooden dog kennels require assembly, so you will need to set aside time to build the structure before your dog can use it. Wooden kennels typically have feet that raise them off the ground, keeping water and dirt from entering. This feature also helps to insulate the kennel, keeping your dog warm during cooler months.

Building the frame

Start by deciding on the dimensions of your dog kennel. Consider the size of your dog, or if you're building a kennel for a future puppy, take into account the expected adult size of their breed. You'll want to make sure the kennel is spacious enough for them to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Once you've determined the size, gather your materials. Pallet wood is a popular choice for kennel projects due to its affordability and accessibility. You'll need enough wood to create a sturdy frame, including vertical and horizontal supports. Ensure you have the necessary tools, such as a saw, drill, hammer, and screws or nails.

Begin constructing the frame by assembling the four walls. Cut the pallet wood to the desired height and width of your kennel. Join the corners securely, ensuring each corner forms a 90-degree angle. You can use wood screws or nails for this, depending on your preference. It's important to make sure the structure is stable and sturdy.

After assembling the walls, you can add a horizontal attachment beam for the front face of the kennel. This will provide additional support and create a sturdy frame for the entrance. Mark out the door opening, considering the size of your dog to ensure it's comfortable for them to enter and exit.

For the roof, cut and attach pallet stringers to form the frame. These will support the roofing material, so ensure they are securely attached. You may want to consider adding a removable roof for easy access and cleaning. Cut off any nails protruding from the frame and rip the stringers down the center if necessary.

Finally, reinforce the structure by adding additional vertical and horizontal supports where needed. This will ensure the kennel can withstand weather conditions and provide a safe and secure space for your dog. Remember to sand down any rough edges to prevent injuries and create a smooth finish.

Adding a roof

Materials and Preparation:

Firstly, gather your materials. You will need chicken wire or hardware cloth, brace rail clamps or connectors, PVC or electrical conduit piping, and zip ties. You can purchase these materials from your local hardware store, such as Lowe's.

Before starting, measure the dimensions of your dog kennel to ensure you have enough materials and to plan the layout of your roof. Consider the width and length of the kennel, and whether you want to create an arched or pitched roof.

Constructing the Framework:

Begin by creating a strong framework to support the roof. Place two 4x4 wooden posts at each end of the kennel to provide vertical support. If your kennel is particularly long, you may need additional posts for stability.

Next, decide on the type of roof structure you want. For an arched roof, cut PVC or electrical conduit piping to the desired length, ensuring it is slightly longer than the width of the kennel. Form arches by attaching the piping to the vertical supports. Secure the arches in place using brace rail clamps or connectors.

If you prefer a pitched roof, create a simple wooden frame using 2x4 wooden beams. Lay the beams across the top of the kennel, spacing them evenly to provide ample support. You can attach these beams directly to the vertical supports and side walls of the kennel.

Attaching the Chicken Wire:

Once you have a sturdy framework in place, it's time to add the chicken wire. For arched roofs, stretch the chicken wire tightly across the arches, securing it with zip ties at regular intervals. Ensure the wire is taut to prevent sagging.

For pitched roofs, staple or nail the chicken wire to the wooden frame. Make sure the wire is secure and does not have any loose areas that animals could exploit. Overlap the edges of the wire and attach it to the frame with zip ties or wire for added strength.

Optional Enhancements:

To further protect your dogs from predators and the elements, consider adding a tarp or plastic sheeting over the chicken wire. This extra layer will enhance weather resistance and provide additional security. You can attach the tarp or sheeting directly to the framework using screws or nails, ensuring a snug fit.

Additionally, if you want to prevent digging and reinforce the perimeter, lay wire mesh on the ground and use U-shaped garden stakes or gravel to hold it in place. This will make it more difficult for animals to dig their way in or out of the kennel.

By following these steps and adapting them to your specific needs, you can effectively add a roof to your dog kennel, creating a safe and comfortable space for your furry friends.

Securing the chicken wire

Chicken wire is a cheap and simple way to secure your dog kennel, and it's super easy to install, even for novice builders. It's important to build your chicken wire fence properly so that it can withstand your dog's weight and keep them safe and secure.

One way to attach chicken wire to your dog kennel is with hog rings. These are inexpensive and, when used with hog-ring pliers, make it easy to stretch the chicken wire tight and straight. This method is faster than using wire or bundle ties.

Another option for securing chicken wire is to use J-clips. These can be crimped with a special tool, an electric J-clamp crimper.

When installing chicken wire, it's important to make sure the fence is the appropriate height so your dog won't be able to jump over it. The holes in the chicken wire should also be small enough that your dog won't be able to climb out.

Frequently asked questions