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How to Design and Build Dog Doors and Kennel Runs in Your Yard

© Pat Williams

Depending on the size of your yard and the layout of your house, you may be able to install a kennel run and dog door. If you're handy, this is a two-weekend project, or you can hire a contractor to do the installation.

Designing a Dog Run

First, choose a location for the dog door where it will open to your yard. A garage, pantry or laundry room is best, but a kitchen wall works too. When you have a location for the door, go outside and look at the area where you will build your run. A minimum of 10 feet long by 6 feet wide is neccessary for small breeds and 15 feet by 10 feet wide for larger breeds.

Using pegs and string, map out the area for the run. Check to make sure your dog door will open up in the middle of this area or slightly to one side. Before beginning construction, check for water, gas or electric lines that run underground or in the wall to be cut. Also, check that there is a water source close enough to enable you to clean the run and provide water for your pet.

Next, decide whether the run will have a dirt or concrete base for the stones. Depending on whether the dog likes to dig will determine your choice. Consider that concrete will allow dust to build up, meaning more work to remove it. Stones are important for dog runs. A dog's urine will drain through the stones instead of puddling. Additionally, a stone floor will give when a dog lays down, avoiding the build up of calluses on the elbows and hip problems, and will allow air to circulate in hot weather.

Constructing a Dog Run

Whichever base you use, you will need to pour a concrete footing for the enclosure. A 25-inch footing is recommended: 20 inches below ground to prevent digging and 5 above ground to hold the stone.

Use chain link fencing with a roof. Make sure the fence is high enough for you to enter without hitting your head, and has a rail at the bottom to prevent escape. A 30-pound dog can push under a chain link fence with little difficulty. You will also need a gate in the fence and a dog house.

Get started by taking up the grass inside the run area. Then, unless you have installed fencing with a footing before, have a professional dig and install the footing. Using the right height footing and a roof will keep pets in and unwanted animals out.