Making an Outside Dog Pen
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Deciding on the Location
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Making an outside dog pen is an excellent way to keep your dog safe whenever you are unavailable to offer direct supervision. However, keep in mind that it is important to ensure that your pet has adequate protection from the hot sun and inclement weather. Placing your dog pen near a shade tree, next to the garage, or other outbuilding is an easy and inexpensive way to offer protection from the elements. If placing your dog pen next to a building, consider giving your pet an access door to enter the building for added protection.
Materials and Size
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Consider the size of your dog, how much time your pet will spend in an outside dog pen, and your budget when choosing the materials to make the pen. A variety of materials is available, from chain link to welded rod mesh. When deciding on the height of your pen, consider what would be necessary to prevent your dog from jumping out which, could result in injury. An alternative to a tall dog pen is placing a roof over the pen or a top of the same material used to construct the sides of the pen. If your dog enjoys digging holes whenever caged, you have two options to consider. Either pour a slab of concrete for the floor of the pen, or purchase additional panels to create a floor. Taking these precautions should keep your dog safely inside its pen whenever it is outside.
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Assembly
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Most prefabricated outside dog pens come with single-bolt brackets to lock each panel together, allowing a single individual to assemble the pen without assistance. Depending on the height of the dog pen, you may need two to four brackets for each corner. The door is usually incorporated into one of the panels of a prefabricated dog pen, so no special assembly or hardware for the door is necessary. However, if you are building your outside dog pen yourself, you will need a latch for the door that your dog cannot easily lift to open. You will also need hinges for hanging the door.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Julia Fuller
