It's no secret that dogs love spending time outside. But do you have a safe spot for your favorite pup? You'll want to choose an outdoor kennel to keep them happy when you can't take them for a walk.
Read on to learn about 13 tips for choosing an outdoor dog kennel with roof coverage!
1. Consider Different Types of Kennels
Investigate outdoor kennels with different layouts and design features to pinpoint the right one. For example, you'll probably want an interior space for your dog to sleep on colder days. But you may prefer a larger outdoor space.
You may want a rectangular unit to maintain a small footprint. But perhaps you want an L-shaped design to fit your property better.
And don't overlook your budget. If you don't have thousands of dollars to drop on a fancy kennel with window trim and gables, you don't have to. You can still find solid dog enclosures that will keep your pet safe and happy.
2. Know Your Size Needs
Before you start shopping for outdoor kennels, consider the size of your dog. And consider how many dogs you have. There isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to buying a kennel.
What breed of dog do you have? If you have a Golden Retriever or Australian Shepherd, you're going to need a bigger dog kennel. By contrast, if you have a Beagle or smaller dog under 30 pounds, you won't need as much square footage.
You'll need enough space for a bed and some toys. And you'll need room for a water bowl and dog food.
3. Determine the Kennel Location
Regardless of the type of kennel you choose, you'll need to start with flat, level ground. Even the best materials won't be able to stay in place securely if you start building on uneven terrain.
In a similar vein, you'll want to be sure that you can place your kennel in an area that is unlikely to flood. And while shade is preferable, cut down any decaying tree limbs that could fall and cause damage.
Consider your kennel's proximity to neighbors, too. If your dog will be able to see people walking into their driveways or backyard, they could start barking. To minimize this risk, place your kennel in a more shielded location.
Placing the kennel closer to your home and out of sight also provides better security. Try to put your kennel in a place where you can see it when you're inside. That way, you can keep an eye on your dog and take action if needed.
4. Factor in the Weather
For outdoor kennels, you'll need to keep the weather in mind. Especially if you're in an area that gets a lot of rain, you'll want a kennel that can withstand moisture. And you may need to account for wind, hail, and snow.
That's why an outdoor kennel with roof accommodations makes the most sense. A simple chainlink fence won't have the structural integrity to stand up to the windiest days. And you'll leave your dog vulnerable to the elements.
You'll want to provide protection from prolonged sun exposure, too. Aim to place your kennel in an area that's shaded by a tree, if possible. Or try a part of your property that doesn't receive as much afternoon sunlight in the summer months.
5. Explore Roof Materials
One of your biggest considerations with dog kennel options is the roofing material. After all, you want something that offers protection from the elements. And you want something that can stand up to all weather conditions.
You might want to use shingles as your roofing material if you're looking for an option with great insulating qualities. You can keep your pup protected from UV rays and rain. You also won't spend as much on this type of roofing material.
As another option, metal roofs are excellent if you experience lots of rain. Metal is a durable material, and its smooth surface quality helps repel snow.
Clear acrylic roofs can be placed on almost any structure if you need to add a roof to an existing kennel. Acrylic plastic also is durable and it won't cost as much as other roof options.
6. Investigate Flooring
Along the same lines, you'll want a durable floor that can handle wear and tear from your dog's feet. Concrete, rubber, and vinyl are good choices.
Keep in mind that concrete, though durable, isn't the most comfortable surface. For older dogs, its hardness isn't kind to aging joints.
Engineered wood, plastic, and epoxy are potentially more comfortable choices. Just look for a material that can't be chewed or scratched easily!
7. Look at Warranties
You might associate warranties with HVAC equipment or cars. But well-made dog enclosures can come with them, too.
Some dog kennels will come with lifetime warranties that cover issues with the workmanship or materials of a dog kennel. Warranties typically won't cover damages inflicted by your dog or natural aging from the elements. But if a roof prematurely collapses or a board pops out, a warranty helps you avoid extra expenses.
8. Assess the Quality
When you're considering outdoor dog kennels, set your sights on sturdy kennels. Materials and workmanship matter when it comes to keeping your pup secure.
Look for materials that are billed as being chew-proof. This is particularly important for the dog door and chainlink material surrounding the outdoor area.
You also should look for materials like pressure-treated floor joists and weather-resistant siding. Similarly, look for roofs that have the durability to last decades.
9. Check the Locking Mechanism
All types of kennels should have secure locks to keep your dog safe inside. It's wise to look at locks carefully to make sure they're easy to use, ;.but also sturdy. You can even spray them with a deterrent if your dog likes to chew things.
A good lock also keeps out unwanted animal visitors. The last thing you want is for a raccoon or bird to find its way into the kennel. Then you'll be dealing with bacteria, fecal matter, and even ripped materials on the structure.
10. Add Security Components
Investing in a dog kennel means taking measures to ensure that it is safe. Most sturdy kennels will be made from long-lasting materials tough enough to withstand even the largest dogs. But not all dog kennel options come equipped with security devices.
Consider opting for a kennel that has features like motion-detecting lights, especially if your dog will be spending time in it at night. Even when your dog's not in the kennel, the light will act as a deterrent. If a kennel doesn't come with one, you can install your own.
11. Leave Room for Add-Ons
Are you planning to adopt more dogs? Or do you want to add a dog run down the road? When you're exploring dog kennel options, consider ones that lend themselves to adding on down the road.
You also will want room to upgrade your dog kennel over time. For example, you can elevate the space with a luxury dog bed or toy bin. As another option, consider heated floors or improved insulation.
12. Weigh the Aesthetics
Outdoor kennels become part of your property's overall appearance. That's why it's smart to consider how a kennel looks before buying or building one. You don't want a kennel that looks too utilitarian if the rest of your home oozes character.
A sloped roof covered in shingles can create a quaint and homey vibe, for instance. You can even choose shingles in a color to match those of your home.
Flat roofs have a more modern appearance. But they also are more prone to forming pools of water after storms.
Find the right blend of aesthetics and functionality to fit your budget. You can always grab a paintbrush and modify the color scheme later!
13. Commit to Maintenance
Finally, when you're investing in a high-quality kennel, you'll want to keep it in good shape. That means doing regular maintenance at different intervals. You can save yourself time by choosing a dog kennel made from materials that are easy to sweep and wipe.
For instance, you'll want to do daily cleanings to remove any fecal matter or dog hair that accumulates after use. Doing this keeps the floor in good shape.
And it keeps your dog from tracking any debris indoors. Since your dog will be spending a lot of time outdoors, it's wise to groom them regularly, too.
You'll want to disinfect floors, too, to keep the space sanitary. Use stiff-bristled scrub brushes on ceilings and walls. Be sure to dry everything, too, as you don't want damp parts to corrode.
Choose an Outdoor Dog Kennel with Roof Coverage
When you select an outdoor dog kennel with roof coverage, you give your pet a comfortable and protected space to enjoy the outdoors. Look for kennels with the design and layout features you want, as well as quality materials in the frame and roof. And be sure that your kennel latches securely so your pup always is safe.
Pet Crates Direct has been a leader in the pet supplies industry since 2002. We help customers find the best prices on their favorite pet products. Contact us today to learn more!
