Key Takeaways -

• Choose durable, weatherproof materials like insulated wood, roofing felt, and raised flooring to protect the dog house from moisture and extreme temperatures.
• Ensure the right size and design by measuring your dog properly and adding ventilation, insulation, and a secure door for comfort and safety.
• Use cedar shavings, straw, or insulated bedding to keep the dog house warm and dry while avoiding moisture-retaining materials like blankets.
• Regular maintenance and pest control—such as sealing gaps, cleaning, and using pet-safe repellents—help extend the lifespan of the dog house and keep it safe.

An outdoor dog house gives your dog a safe and comfortable place to rest outside. While it will face different weather conditions, choosing the right materials and adding proper insulation will help keep it sturdy and dry.

This guide will show you step by step how to build a strong and weatherproof dog house. You'll learn about the best materials to use, how to insulate and waterproof it, and the easiest way to put it together.

Keep reading to find out how to build your own dog kennel that will last a long time. No matter your dog’s size or needs, having a well-built shelter will keep them warm, dry, and comfortable all year round.

Step 1: Planning and Preparation

Choosing the Right Design

The design of your outdoor dog kennel should suit your dog's needs and withstand outdoor conditions. A flat roof is easier to build and gives your dog a spot to sit on top, but it needs a slight slope for rain runoff. A sloped roof offers better drainage and insulation, keeping the inside dry and warm.

If you have multiple dogs, a double-compartment house provides separate spaces. To prevent moisture buildup, a raised base plate keeps the floor off the ground, protecting against dampness and cold while improving air circulation.

Measuring Your Dog for the Right Size

A properly sized dog house ensures comfort and warmth. The height should be at least 1.2 times your dog’s shoulder height, allowing them to stand up comfortably. The door opening should be around 80% of their shoulder height, making it easy to enter without losing warmth.

The interior length should be 25% longer than your dog’s full body length, while the width should be 10% wider than their shoulders. The total height of the dog house should be 25-50% taller than your dog's full height to allow for easy movement.

Recommended Kennel Sizes by Dog Type

Choosing the right kennel size depends on your dog's breed and size.

• Small dogs, such as Chihuahuas and Jack Russells, need a house at least 70cm x 75cm x 75cm.
• Medium-sized dogs, like Beagles and Cockapoos, should have a kennel measuring 84cm x 1m x 85cm.
• Large dogs, including Labradors and Dalmatians, require at least 1.2m x 1m x 1m for comfortable movement.
• Extra-large dogs, such as German Shepherds and Retrievers, will need a dog house similar in size to a 48-inch crate to ensure enough space to stretch out (1).

Selecting Materials and Tools

Choosing the right materials ensures durability and insulation. Here are some recommendations on which ones to choose:

• Spruce wood is affordable but needs treatment to resist weather damage. Larch wood is naturally weather-resistant and long-lasting. Pinewood is a budget-friendly option but requires waterproofing to prevent rot.
• For the floor, using Euro pallets or concrete blocks elevates the house, keeping it dry.
• The roof should be covered with roofing felt or roofing shingles to protect against rain.
• Essential tools include a circular saw or jigsaw for cutting, a screwdriver or drill for assembly, and a measuring tape and safety gear.
• Use wood screws, nails, and weatherproof varnish for secure and lasting construction.

Step 2: Constructing the Base

Building the Subfloor

Raising the dog house off the ground helps protect it from dampness and cold. Using Euro pallets or concrete blocks, elevate the base to improve air circulation and prevent moisture buildup. This also helps keep the floor warmer in colder months.

Before moving forward, make sure the subfloor is level and stable to avoid an uneven structure. A wobbly base can cause discomfort for your dog and weaken the overall build. Double-check the alignment and adjust the supports if necessary to ensure a strong and durable foundation.

Creating the Floor Panel

A sturdy floor keeps the dog house warm and secure. Start by building a frame with wooden strips and attach them tightly to the subfloor. Adding a centre strip increases stability and prevents sagging over time.

To keep the floor insulated, cut and fit rigid foam boards inside the frame, making sure they fit snugly without gaps. Once the insulation is in place, secure everything with a base panel on top. This extra layer adds durability while helping retain heat, keeping the dog house comfortable in all seasons.

Step 3: Assembling the Walls

Cutting and Preparing Wall Panels

The walls form the structure of the dog house and need to be cut accurately. Start by cutting the front and back panels to size, ensuring they match the planned dimensions. If you are using a sloped roof, shape the gable at the top of the front and back panels.

This helps with water drainage and gives the house a more enclosed, insulated feel. Double-check the cuts before moving forward to ensure everything aligns correctly, making assembly easier and the final structure sturdier.

Creating the Door Opening

A well-sized door allows your dog to enter and exit easily while keeping warmth inside. Customise the door size and shape based on your dog’s breed, ensuring it is big enough for them to move through comfortably but not so large that it lets in drafts.

The door should be low enough for easy access but high enough to prevent rain from getting inside. A rounded or straight-top design both work well, depending on your preference. Sand down any rough edges to keep the opening smooth and safe.

Attaching the Walls

Once the panels are ready, secure them to the floor frame for a strong foundation. Attach wooden strips along the edges of the front and back walls to reinforce their structure. Then, position the side walls, ensuring they align properly with the base.

Use metal angle connectors to firmly attach the front, back and side walls to the floor frame, creating a stable structure. Double-check that all panels are tightly fitted before securing the screws.

This prevents gaps that could let in drafts or moisture, keeping the dog house well-insulated and weather-resistant.

Step 4: Building the Roof

Installing the Roof Structure

The roof provides protection from rain, wind, and sun, so it needs to be sturdy. Start by attaching a ridge beam between the highest points of the front and back panels to support the roof’s weight.

Once the beam is secure, position the roof panels on either side and attach them to the gables and ridge beam. Make sure the panels fit snugly to prevent gaps that could let in drafts or moisture. A well-fitted roof will keep the dog house insulated and comfortable in all weather conditions.

Waterproofing the Roof

A waterproof roof ensures your dog stays dry and warm. Cover the roof panels with roofing felt or shingles, which provide protection against rain and snow. Make sure the material overlaps properly to create a watertight seal, preventing leaks.

Once positioned, use a tacker to securely fasten the roofing material to the panels. Double-check that all edges are sealed tightly to avoid water seeping inside. A properly waterproofed roof extends the lifespan of the dog house and keeps it safe from weather damage.

Step 5: Install Insulation and Weatherproofing

Adding Insulation

Insulation helps keep the dog house warm in winter and cool in summer. Line the walls, floor, and roof with hard foam panels to trap heat and block cold drafts. For the best results, use non-toxic polystyrene or foam boards, which provide maximum heat retention while keeping the structure lightweight.

Make sure the insulation fits snugly inside the panels without gaps. A well-insulated dog house will create a comfortable space for your dog, protecting them from extreme temperatures throughout the year.

Sealing and Protecting the Wood

To prevent weather damage, apply a weatherproof wood varnish or stain to the entire exterior. This will protect the wood from moisture, preventing rot and extending the life of the dog house. Apply at least two coats for added durability, letting each layer dry completely before adding the next.

Choose non-toxic, pet-safe treatments to ensure your dog’s safety. Regular maintenance, such as reapplying varnish as needed, will keep the dog house strong and resistant to harsh weather conditions and outdoor environment elements.

Step 6: Customisation and Finishing Touches

Additional Functional Features

Adding practical features makes the dog house more comfortable and easier to maintain. Hinged side panels allow for quick and easy cleaning, making it simple to remove dirt or replace bedding. A raised sleeping area keeps your dog off the cold floor, helping them stay warm in colder months.

For extra warmth, consider a radiant heater with a thermostat to maintain a stable temperature. Alternatively, heat pads or warm straw bedding provide a cosy and safe way to keep your dog comfortable during winter without needing electricity.

Safety and Aesthetic Enhancements

A well-finished dog house is both safe and visually appealing. Smooth all edges to remove any rough or sharp spots that could cause injury. Use non-toxic paint or wood stain to add a stylish look while keeping it safe for your pet.

Finally, double-check for exposed screws or sharp edges to prevent any accidental cuts or scrapes. A well-designed dog house should be both functional and safe, ensuring a comfortable and secure space for your pet all year round.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Make My Outdoor Dog House More Pest-Resistant?

To keep pests like fleas, ticks, and rodents away, use cedar wood or cedar shavings, as they naturally repel insects. Regularly clean the dog house and surrounding area to remove food scraps and debris that attract pests.

Sealing small gaps in the side walls, front and back walls, and floor will help prevent rodents from nesting inside. For extra protection, apply pet-safe pest repellents around the dog house.

What Type of Bedding Is Best for an Outdoor Dog House?

The best bedding for an outdoor dog house is straw, cedar shavings, or an insulated dog bed, as they provide warmth and comfort. Avoid blankets or towels, as they trap moisture and can develop mould in damp conditions. If using straw or shavings, replace them regularly to keep the area clean and dry.

For extra insulation, consider an elevated sleeping platform to keep your dog off the cold ground.

Conclusion

Building a comfortable and weatherproof dog house ensures your four-legged friend has a safe and cosy shelter year-round. With the right materials, proper insulation, and regular maintenance, you can create a durable outdoor space that protects them from harsh weather.

By following these steps, you’ll provide your dog with a secure, well-ventilated home where they can rest comfortably in any season.

Sources -

1. https://www.pinnacle.net.au/choosing-the-right-dog-kennel-for-your-dog/