Dogs are social pack animals that enjoy spending time with you and your family, after all, it’s why you chose a dog as your companion. However, there are some breeds of dogs that prefer to spend more of his time outdoors and become anxious or bored if left indoors for too long. If you live with a dog who enjoys plenty of time outdoors but you still want to offer a safe and warm environment, consider adding an enclosed dog kennel in your backyard.
Dogs that Thrive Outdoors
There are many types of dogs, mostly larger breeds, that have been bred and adapted for working and living outdoors. These breeds of dogs are better suited to spend time outdoors in all types of weather:
- German Shepard / Australian Shepard
- Great Pyrenees
- Mastiff
- Siberian Husky
- Rottweiler
- Irish Wolfhound
- Swiss Mountain Dog / Bernese Mountain Dog
- English Sheepdog
- Samoyed
- Keeshond
- Chow Chow
- American Foxhound / English Foxhound
What Your Enclosed Dog Kennel Must Provide
Even a dog that enjoys time outdoors will require the shelter that an enclosed dog kennel provides. Quality kennels are built with an insulated box where your dog can go to escape the outdoor elements. They should also include a dog door that allows your dog access to an attached dog run or your backyard (if your yard is fenced in) where he can run, play, and get his daily exercise.
When setting up a dog kennel in your backyard, remember to include these elements.
Proper Placement of a Kennel
Choosing the right placement for your dog kennel can create the best possible outdoor environment for your dog. Here are some things to consider when deciding where to place a new kennel:
- Place your dog kennel on a small platform that allows it to rest slightly off the ground. This keeps the floor of your kennel away from direct contact with the cold and wet ground and lets the structure to retain more heat.
- Position your kennel so the doggie door or entry to the insulated portion is blocked from strong winds.
- Choose a location that offers some shade so your pet is protected from the day’s strongest sunlight.
Enclosed Kennel Necessities
Once your kennel is properly placed, your next move is to make sure that it includes all the necessities your dog needs when spending time outdoors.
- Place water in the indoor portion of the dog kennel to protect it from pests, debris, and freezing. You can also provide food but it shouldn’t be left outdoors for too long as it can attract other critters.
- Create a bedding space for your dog using an insulating material like straw or cedar shavings. Sheets and towels may seem like a more comfortable option, but they can retain moisture and freeze in colder temperatures.
Comfortable Kennel Temperatures
There are several upgrades you can choose to customize your dog’s kennel and keep his outdoor area pleasant and climate controlled.
- Vents or fans can be strategically placed in your kennel design for increased air circulation.
- A weatherproof doggie door will keep rain, snow, and blasts of cold air out of your dog’s indoor space.
- You can even splurge on an attached heater/AC unit for complete climate control.
Although most dogs are happiest in your home, if your dog is a breed that prefers to spend more time outdoors, protecting your dog and providing a comfortable space should be your priority.
If you’re looking to purchase an enclosed dog kennel for your backyard, shop Penn Dutch Structures for single and dual capacity kennels, as well as larger structures.