Building a DIY kennel is a rewarding project, but requires more than just a few plywood. Whether you’re creating a compact indoor kennel in Denver, Colorado, or building a weather-resistant retreat in your backyard in Austin, Texas, the right approach makes all the difference. From choosing durable materials to ensuring safety and comfort, these expert-assisted tips guide you through every step. This Redfin article will help your puppy to go indoors or out of the DIY dog home that you love.
1. Build a solid height foundation
“A strong foundation is the key to a long-term kennel,” says Kristen Kolchinski of Tucson Dodge Door. “Don’t avoid placing it directly on the ground. Lift it up using cement, pavement, or pressure treated wood. If elevation is not possible, composite floors can still provide weather resistance. That small change can make a big difference in durability.”
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2. Year-round durability design
“As a Florida-based coastal real estate team, we always recommend weather-resistant materials such as cedar and marine-grade plywood for dog homes,” Studstill Realty Group recommends. “These are well tolerant of Florida’s heat, humidity and pests. Raising the floor improves airflow and makes things dry. And don’t underestimate the small covered pouch.
3. Uses environmentally friendly, durable materials
“For best results, choose composites such as Ecoflex. They resist moisture, odors and insects while being environmentally friendly,” explains Puppy Fever Pro. “Pitched roofs help you rain and stand up to your dog’s room. Floor overpasses and snap parts reduce the risk of injury. Always size your home to your dog’s needs and consider extras such as insulation, door flaps and feeding stations.”
4. Adjust the temperature with insulation and airflow
“To keep your kennel comfortable in any season, lift it off the ground and isolate it with a foam sheet between the interior and exterior walls,” recommends high-quality dog wooden boxes. “We use seal cracks with non-toxic silicon and add adjustable vents on both sides, which helps regulate airflow and temperature all year round, while protecting against moisture and drafting.”
5. Limit air gaps to maintain warmth
“When building a kennel, there are no walls or roof gaps,” suggests a modern build. “Make sure you have a door big enough for your dog to enter. This limits heat loss. And always face the door facing the door to keep your dog warm and cozy during the cold months.”
6. Consider safety and emotional well-being
“The kennel may sound comfortable, but I encourage you to think twice before leaving your dog outside without constantly monitoring it,” advises Puckfit. “Theft, breeding risks and escape of dogs through instinctive drives are real concerns. Dogs thrive in dating and interaction. A physical shelter alone is not enough.
7. When designing, think of it like a dog
“Most dogs love small, cozy spaces, which is why they crave under the bed,” explains Wild Oak Trail. “Instead of getting bigger, we build a perfect shelter with vents and soft beds. The wheels and basic insulation make it more functional.
8. Prioritize safe, natural indoor materials
“When building an indoor kennel, choose non-toxic materials such as hard hardwood or breathable fabrics that blend with the ornament,” says Mike Zhang of Wooffy. “It avoids fragile fragments and ensures airflow with vents built in. It keeps space large enough for comfort, not overexist. It adds both features and appeal, like internal storage and nameplate.”
9.Multifunctional indoor
“If the space is tight, design your indoor kennel to double as furniture,” suggests Pet Shell. “Think a TV stand, a bedside table, or a bench with storage. It keeps space small and creates a sense of safety, but not used as a play zone for your child. It’s a dog’s space. Add insulation to block noise, light and heat.”
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10. Create a cozy indoor kennel that blends in
“In Washington, we created an indoor kennel that is warm, quiet and easy to clean because the weather can be unpredictable,” says HR’s construction and design. “We chose a calm place near natural light, used wood and laminates for the build, and added gates for security. We first applied cardboard to test the fit and flow.
