6 Best Outdoor Dog Kennels

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Outdoor play and fresh air are crucial for the health and well-being of our beloved four-legged companions. However, safety is an equally important consideration when allowing our dogs to spend time outside. An outdoor dog kennel can provide the perfect solution, giving your pet a secure area where they can enjoy the outdoors without the risks associated with free roaming. This article will guide you through the variety of outdoor dog kennels available on the market and help you select the best one that caters to the needs of both you and your canine companion.

 

 

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What Qualities Should I Look For When Purchasing an Outdoor Dog Kennel?

When purchasing an outdoor dog kennel, there are several important factors to consider:

1. Size: The kennel should be large enough for your dog to move around comfortably. They should be able to stand, sit, turn around, and lie down without restriction. The size will also depend on how long your dog will be spending in the kennel.
2. Material & Durability: Look for a kennel made from high-quality, durable material that can withstand the elements and your dog’s activity level. Steel is a popular choice due to its durability. The material should also be chew-proof if your dog is a persistent chewer.
3. Security: The kennel should be secure to prevent your dog from escaping. The gate should have a reliable locking system. If your dog is a digger, you might want to consider a kennel with an included floor or dig guard.
4. Protection from the Elements: If the kennel will be used in all types of weather, look for one that offers some form of shelter or cover to protect your dog from rain, sun, and wind.
5. Ease of Cleaning: A kennel with a removable or easy-to-clean floor is ideal. This will make it easier for you to keep the kennel clean and hygienic for your pet.
6. Portability: If you plan on moving the kennel around your yard or taking it to different locations, a kennel that’s easy to assemble, disassemble, and transport would be beneficial.
7. Comfort: Lastly, while the kennel is an outdoor structure, it should still be comfortable for your dog. Adding a bed or mat could make it more inviting.

Remember, the goal is to find a balance between safety, comfort, and functionality when choosing the perfect outdoor kennel for your dog.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Dog Kennels

1. What is the ideal size for an outdoor dog kennel? The size of the kennel should be large enough for your dog to move around comfortably. Your dog should be able to stand, sit, turn around, and lie down easily. If your dog will be spending extended periods in the kennel, it should also have enough room for food and water bowls, as well as a sheltered area for rest.
2. What materials are best for outdoor dog kennels? Outdoor dog kennels should be made from durable, weather-resistant materials. Galvanized steel or heavy-duty plastic are commonly used because they are sturdy and can withstand the elements. It’s also helpful if the material is chew-proof, especially for dogs who like to gnaw on things.
3. How can I ensure the kennel is secure? Choose a kennel with a sturdy latch or lock to prevent your dog from escaping. Some kennels also come with a roof or cover for added security. If your dog is a digger, consider a kennel with an included floor or a dig guard around the edges.
4. How do I protect my dog from weather conditions in an outdoor kennel? Many kennels come with a cover or roof to provide shelter from rain and sun. If not, you might want to consider adding a cover. In colder climates, consider adding a heated bed or kennel heater, but make sure all wires are safely hidden from your dog.
5. Are outdoor dog kennels easy to clean? This depends on the design. A kennel with a removable or easily cleaned floor will make the task easier. Regular cleaning is essential to maintain hygiene and prevent odors.
6. Can I move the kennel around? Many outdoor dog kennels are designed to be fairly portable. They can be disassembled and reassembled if you need to move them around your yard or take them to a new location. However, larger, more permanent structures may be more difficult to move.
7. Can my dog spend all its time in the outdoor kennel? While outdoor kennels are a great way to give your dog fresh air and exercise, they’re not a substitute for regular walks, interaction, and indoor living. Dogs are social animals and need interaction with their families. The kennel should only be used for part of the day.
8. How can I make the kennel more comfortable for my dog? Adding a comfortable bed, blankets, or even toys can make the kennel more comfortable and inviting. Make sure to provide plenty of fresh water, and if your dog will be eating meals in the kennel, include food dishes as well.
9. Are outdoor kennels suitable for all breeds? Most breeds can use an outdoor kennel, but the size and features you need might vary. Smaller breeds or those prone to feeling the cold may require a smaller, well-insulated kennel, while larger breeds will need more space.
10. Can I use an outdoor kennel for my puppy? Yes, but ensure the kennel is safe for a smaller, more curious animal. Check for any small gaps or potential hazards a puppy could get into. It’s also even more important to ensure the kennel isn’t used as a substitute for socialization and training during this critical growth stage.

 

Conclusion: Best Outdoor Dog Kennels

Ensuring your dog’s safety while they enjoy the great outdoors doesn’t have to be a challenge. With the right outdoor kennel, you can provide a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable space for your pet to play and relax. As we’ve explored in this article, there is a wide variety of outdoor dog kennels available to suit dogs of all sizes and breeds. By considering factors such as size, durability, security, and ease of cleaning, you can choose the kennel that best fits your dog’s needs and your lifestyle. Always remember, while an outdoor kennel is a wonderful tool for keeping your pet secure, nothing replaces the value of regular supervision and interaction. Happy browsing, and here’s to many happy outdoor adventures with your furry friend!

iHeartDogs is reader supported. Some of the links below may be paid affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on a product at no additional cost to you. 

iHeartDogs is reader supported. Some of the links below may be paid affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on a product at no additional cost to you. 

Outdoor play and fresh air are crucial for the health and well-being of our beloved four-legged companions. However, safety is an equally important consideration when allowing our dogs to spend time outside. An outdoor dog kennel can provide the perfect solution, giving your pet a secure area where they can enjoy the outdoors without the risks associated with free roaming. This article will guide you through the variety of outdoor dog kennels available on the market and help you select the best one that caters to the needs of both you and your canine companion.

 

 

---

 

---

 

---

 

---

 

---

 

---

What Qualities Should I Look For When Purchasing an Outdoor Dog Kennel?

When purchasing an outdoor dog kennel, there are several important factors to consider:

1. Size: The kennel should be large enough for your dog to move around comfortably. They should be able to stand, sit, turn around, and lie down without restriction. The size will also depend on how long your dog will be spending in the kennel.
2. Material & Durability: Look for a kennel made from high-quality, durable material that can withstand the elements and your dog’s activity level. Steel is a popular choice due to its durability. The material should also be chew-proof if your dog is a persistent chewer.
3. Security: The kennel should be secure to prevent your dog from escaping. The gate should have a reliable locking system. If your dog is a digger, you might want to consider a kennel with an included floor or dig guard.
4. Protection from the Elements: If the kennel will be used in all types of weather, look for one that offers some form of shelter or cover to protect your dog from rain, sun, and wind.
5. Ease of Cleaning: A kennel with a removable or easy-to-clean floor is ideal. This will make it easier for you to keep the kennel clean and hygienic for your pet.
6. Portability: If you plan on moving the kennel around your yard or taking it to different locations, a kennel that’s easy to assemble, disassemble, and transport would be beneficial.
7. Comfort: Lastly, while the kennel is an outdoor structure, it should still be comfortable for your dog. Adding a bed or mat could make it more inviting.

Remember, the goal is to find a balance between safety, comfort, and functionality when choosing the perfect outdoor kennel for your dog.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Dog Kennels

1. What is the ideal size for an outdoor dog kennel? The size of the kennel should be large enough for your dog to move around comfortably. Your dog should be able to stand, sit, turn around, and lie down easily. If your dog will be spending extended periods in the kennel, it should also have enough room for food and water bowls, as well as a sheltered area for rest.
2. What materials are best for outdoor dog kennels? Outdoor dog kennels should be made from durable, weather-resistant materials. Galvanized steel or heavy-duty plastic are commonly used because they are sturdy and can withstand the elements. It’s also helpful if the material is chew-proof, especially for dogs who like to gnaw on things.
3. How can I ensure the kennel is secure? Choose a kennel with a sturdy latch or lock to prevent your dog from escaping. Some kennels also come with a roof or cover for added security. If your dog is a digger, consider a kennel with an included floor or a dig guard around the edges.
4. How do I protect my dog from weather conditions in an outdoor kennel? Many kennels come with a cover or roof to provide shelter from rain and sun. If not, you might want to consider adding a cover. In colder climates, consider adding a heated bed or kennel heater, but make sure all wires are safely hidden from your dog.
5. Are outdoor dog kennels easy to clean? This depends on the design. A kennel with a removable or easily cleaned floor will make the task easier. Regular cleaning is essential to maintain hygiene and prevent odors.
6. Can I move the kennel around? Many outdoor dog kennels are designed to be fairly portable. They can be disassembled and reassembled if you need to move them around your yard or take them to a new location. However, larger, more permanent structures may be more difficult to move.
7. Can my dog spend all its time in the outdoor kennel? While outdoor kennels are a great way to give your dog fresh air and exercise, they’re not a substitute for regular walks, interaction, and indoor living. Dogs are social animals and need interaction with their families. The kennel should only be used for part of the day.
8. How can I make the kennel more comfortable for my dog? Adding a comfortable bed, blankets, or even toys can make the kennel more comfortable and inviting. Make sure to provide plenty of fresh water, and if your dog will be eating meals in the kennel, include food dishes as well.
9. Are outdoor kennels suitable for all breeds? Most breeds can use an outdoor kennel, but the size and features you need might vary. Smaller breeds or those prone to feeling the cold may require a smaller, well-insulated kennel, while larger breeds will need more space.
10. Can I use an outdoor kennel for my puppy? Yes, but ensure the kennel is safe for a smaller, more curious animal. Check for any small gaps or potential hazards a puppy could get into. It’s also even more important to ensure the kennel isn’t used as a substitute for socialization and training during this critical growth stage.

 

Conclusion: Best Outdoor Dog Kennels

Ensuring your dog’s safety while they enjoy the great outdoors doesn’t have to be a challenge. With the right outdoor kennel, you can provide a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable space for your pet to play and relax. As we’ve explored in this article, there is a wide variety of outdoor dog kennels available to suit dogs of all sizes and breeds. By considering factors such as size, durability, security, and ease of cleaning, you can choose the kennel that best fits your dog’s needs and your lifestyle. Always remember, while an outdoor kennel is a wonderful tool for keeping your pet secure, nothing replaces the value of regular supervision and interaction. Happy browsing, and here’s to many happy outdoor adventures with your furry friend!

iHeartDogs is reader supported. Some of the links below may be paid affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on a product at no additional cost to you.