--- title: "How to build your very own dog kennel" id: "8069" type: "post" slug: "how-to-build-your-very-own-dog-kennel" published_at: "2026-11-13T04:58:59+00:00" modified_at: "2026-11-13T05:26:34+00:00" url: "https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/how-to-build-your-very-own-dog-kennel/" markdown_url: "https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/how-to-build-your-very-own-dog-kennel.md" excerpt: "Insurance disclaimer: This article provides general information only and doesn’t take into account your individual circumstances. Terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions apply. Please read the relevant PDS. Accurate as at 13 November 2026. Health disclaimer: This article provides general information..." taxonomy_category: - "Facts & fun" --- [Back](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/category/facts-and-fun/) Facts & fun # How to build your very own dog kennel Written by our RSPCA Pet Insurance Team 13 Nov, 2026 - 7 min read **Insurance disclaimer:** *This article provides general information only and doesn’t take into account your individual circumstances. Terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions apply. Please read the relevant PDS. Accurate as at 13 November 2026.* **Health disclaimer:** *This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for personalised veterinary advice. Always speak with your vet about your pet’s individual health needs. Accurate as at 13 November 2026.* There’s something really satisfying about building something with your own hands, especially when it’s for a beloved member of the family. Building a kennel can be a fun weekend project and give your dog a sheltered outdoor retreat. But a good kennel is about far more than four walls and a roof. To help keep your dog comfortable and safe, it needs a few key features that protect them from the elements. Here’s how to build your very own dog kennel, with your dog’s welfare at the heart of the design. **Table of contents** - [First, a word on your dog’s sleeping arrangements](#first-a-word-on-your-dogs-sleeping-arrangements) - [The must-have features of a good kennel](#the-must-have-features-of-a-good-kennel) - [Step 1: Measure your dog and plan the size](#step-1-measure-your-dog-and-plan-the-size) - [Step 2: Choose safe, suitable materials](#step-2-choose-safe-suitable-materials) - [Step 3: Build it off the ground](#step-3-build-it-off-the-ground) - [Step 4: Weatherproof the roof and walls](#step-4-weatherproof-the-roof-and-walls) - [Step 5: Make it cosy inside](#step-5-make-it-cosy-inside) - [Step 6: Place it thoughtfully](#step-6-place-it-thoughtfully) - [Keeping the kennel clean and safe](#keeping-the-kennel-clean-and-safe) - [How pet insurance can help](#how-pet-insurance-can-help) ## First, a word on your dog’s sleeping arrangements Before we pick up the tools, it’s worth saying: dogs are highly social animals who benefit from companionship. Where it’s possible and safe, the RSPCA suggests letting your dog sleep inside if they’d prefer to. If sleeping indoors isn’t possible, your dog should have access to a well-built, well-furnished and weatherproof kennel with comfortable bedding. And for dogs who sleep inside, a kennel may still provide a sheltered place to rest while they spend time outside during the day. A kennel should provide protection from weather extremes, including rain, wind, cold, heat and sun, somewhere to relax in the yard, but it shouldn’t mean a dog is left isolated outdoors all the time. So think of your kennel as a comfortable, sheltered place for your dog to rest, alongside plenty of time, company and affection with the family. With that in mind, let’s build a great one. ## The must-have features of a good kennel Whatever design you choose, a well-built kennel should tick these boxes. It should be: - Well-built, well-furnished and weatherproof - Warm, dry and draught-free - Raised off the ground - Near the house, but not in a busy thoroughfare - Protected from rain, excessive sun and other weather extremes - Fitted with comfortable, washable bedding - Adequately sized for your dog to move in and out comfortably, stand, turn around and lie fully stretched out Keep these principles in mind at every step to guide your design. If DIY isn’t for you, you can also buy a ready-made kennel. Just make sure it meets the same requirements for your dog’s size, comfort, and protection from the weather. ## Step 1: Measure your dog and plan the size Getting the size right is crucial. The kennel should be big enough for your dog to move in and out comfortably, stand up, turn around and lie down fully stretched out, but not so big that it becomes difficult to keep cosy and warm in colder weather. Measure your dog’s length and height, and plan an adequately sized (snug but not cramped) comfortable interior. If your dog is still growing, factor in their adult size. A simple sketch or plan before you start will save headaches later. ## Step 2: Choose safe, suitable materials Opt for sturdy, weatherproof, non-toxic materials. Timber is a popular, insulating choice. Make sure there are no sharp edges, protruding nails or screws, or splinters that could injure your dog, and sand everything smooth. If you paint or treat the timber, use pet-safe, non-toxic products and let them fully cure and air out before your dog uses the kennel. ## Step 3: Build it off the ground A kennel should always sit raised off the ground. This keeps the interior dry by preventing moisture seeping up from below, improves insulation, and protects against draughts. Build the kennel on a sturdy raised base, in line with RSPCA guidance. Check that the finished floor remains dry and draught-free. Short, sturdy legs or a raised base platform do the job nicely. This single feature can make a huge difference to your dog’s comfort. ## Step 4: Weatherproof the roof and walls Your dog’s kennel needs to provide protection from rain, wind and sun. Give it a sloped, overhanging roof so water runs off and away from the entrance, and make sure the walls and roof are sealed against draughts, while still providing good ventilation. A handy tip: consider hinging the roof so you can lift it to clean inside easily. Position the entrance away from prevailing wind and driving rain. Consider insulation as part of a design that also provides suitable ventilation and temperature control. ## Step 5: Make it cosy inside A kennel is only as comfortable as what’s inside it. Add soft, warm, washable bedding, think an outdoor pet bed, suitable rug, cushions or blankets, to keep your dog cosy and cushioned. Raised or thermal bedding can add extra warmth in cold weather. Keep the bedding clean and dry and clean it regularly (more on that below). ## Step 6: Place it thoughtfully Where you put the finished kennel matters just as much as how you build it. Position it near the house, so your dog can remain close to the family life, but out of busy thoroughfares where they’ll be constantly disturbed. Choose a spot that’s protected from the elements, offering shade in summer and shelter from wind and rain, and avoid damp, low-lying or exposed areas. The aim is a peaceful, sheltered retreat your dog actually wants to use. ## Keeping the kennel clean and safe Once it’s built, a little upkeep keeps the kennel a healthy place to be. Clean it out regularly and wash the bedding often to keep it clear and dry. This is where that hinged roof really earns its keep. Check the structure periodically for any wear, damage or hazards like loose screws, and make sure your dog always has access to fresh water and shade nearby. Regular checks and maintenance will help keep the kennel comfortable and in good condition. ## What if I can’t build a kennel? Not everyone has the tools, skills or time to build a kennel from scratch, and that’s okay. Ready-made kennels are another option. Whether you build or buy, use the same principles above when choosing a ready-made kennel to make sure it meets your dog’s needs. ## How pet insurance can help A cosy kennel helps protect your dog from the elements while they spend time outside, but accidents and illnesses can still happen. Pet insurance can help cover some of those unexpected vet costs, so you can focus on keeping your dog happy and healthy. With [RSPCA Pet Insurance](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) , you can customise your dog’s cover to suit your needs and budget. And every policy also contributes to vital [RSPCA animal welfare initiatives](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-insurance-with-purpose/) , including rescue, rehab and rehoming for animals in need. To learn more, visit the [RSPCA Pet Insurance website](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) , or fetch a commitment-free quote [online](https://quote.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) . ### **Disclaimer** As with any insurance, terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please read the [Product Disclosure Statement](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/product-disclosure-statement/) to make sure this cover suits your needs. **References** [1] RSPCA Australia. *Can you give me some advice on caring for my dog?* Available from: [https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/dogs/caring-for-my-dog/can-you-give-me-some-advice-on-caring-for-my-dog](https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/dogs/caring-for-my-dog/can-you-give-me-some-advice-on-caring-for-my-dog) [2] RSPCA Australia. *How can I protect my dog from heatstroke?* Available from: [https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/dogs/caring-for-my-dog/how-can-i-protect-my-dog-from-heatstroke](https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/dogs/caring-for-my-dog/how-can-i-protect-my-dog-from-heatstroke) [3] RSPCA Australia. *Why is enrichment important for dogs?* Available from: [https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/dogs/caring-for-my-dog/why-is-enrichment-important-for-dogs](https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/dogs/caring-for-my-dog/why-is-enrichment-important-for-dogs) [4] Kennards. *Tips for building a dog kennel.* Available from: [https://www.kennards.com.au/diy-advice/get-inspired/tips-for-building-a-dog-kennel](https://www.kennards.com.au/diy-advice/get-inspired/tips-for-building-a-dog-kennel) [5] RSPCA SA. *Protecting animals when the mercury drops.* Available from: [https://www.rspcasa.org.au/winter-weather-care/](https://www.rspcasa.org.au/winter-weather-care/) [6] Animal Welfare Victoria. *Code of practice for the private keeping of dogs.* Available from: [https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/livestock-and-animals/animal-welfare-victoria/pocta-act-1986/victorian-codes-of-practice-for-animal-welfare/code-of-practice-for-the-private-keeping-of-dogs](https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/livestock-and-animals/animal-welfare-victoria/pocta-act-1986/victorian-codes-of-practice-for-animal-welfare/code-of-practice-for-the-private-keeping-of-dogs) ## FAQs ### What makes a good dog kennel? A good kennel is well-built, weatherproof and comfortable. It should be warm, dry, well-ventilated but draught-free, raised off the ground, positioned near the house but out of the way of busy thoroughfares, and protected from rain and excessive sun. Fit it with clean, washable bedding, and make sure it is adequately sized for your dog to move in and out comfortably, stand, turn around and lie down fully stretched out. ### How big should a dog kennel be? Size it to your individual dog. The kennel should be big enough for them to move in and out, stand up, turn around comfortably and lie down fully stretched out, but not so large that it loses its cosy, sheltered feel or is difficult to keep warm in colder weather. If your dog is still growing, allow for how big they’ll be as an adult. When in doubt, measure your dog and build a kennel to suit their size and needs. ### Where should I put my dog’s kennel? Place it somewhere sheltered, off the ground, and near the house so your dog can remain close to the family life, but not in a busy thoroughfare where they’ll be constantly disturbed. Position it to be protected from rain, wind and excessive sun, offering shade in summer and warmth in winter. Avoid damp, exposed or draughty spots. ### Should my dog sleep outside in a kennel? Where it’s possible and safe, it’s best to let your dog sleep inside if they’d prefer to. Dogs are social animals who benefit from companionship, so a kennel shouldn’t mean your dog is isolated outside all the time. For some dogs, a kennel may simply provide a sheltered, comfortable place to rest while they spend time outside during the day. However, if sleeping indoors at night isn’t possible, provide a well-built, weatherproof kennel that is warm, dry, draught-free and fitted with comfortable bedding, with protection from weather extremes. Think of it as one comfortable option, alongside plenty of time with you. 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