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

If possible, have the stone for the run laid after the footing is set and dry but before the fencing is completed. It should be 3-4 inches deep. Stones should be small with rounded edges, but not so small that it can stick in a dog's foot (no gravel).

Building the Dog Door and Dog House

On the inside of the dog house where you plan to install the door, the bottom of the door should be 2 to 3 inches above the floor, higher for very large breeds. Outside in the run you may find this measurement will put the door high above the floor of the run. If you do not plan to use a dog house a few rows of well placed cinder blocks will solve the problem.  

When choosing a dog door, quality is paramount. Rubber doors tend to become rigid in cold weather and can fall off. Aluminum or plexiglas doors are better, such as  the Mason Company's Pickwick door. Installing a dog door is basic construction, but if you are not handy, call a professional. When purchasing a door the measurement should be a few inches higher than the measurement of your dogs chest at the deepest part.

If your next option is a dog house that you want to use to cover the door, a cinder block foundation is needed and correct measurements are critical. The house must be big enough for your pet to lay down, and the door must have clearance to open. For small dogs a regular dog house with the back cut out will work. Whether you build your own or buy one it will need a good foundation, and has to be attached securely to the wall for your pets' safety.

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