How to Build a Doghouse

An abode for your dog is merely a smaller, stripped-down version of your own home. Building a doghouse is an easy weekend project - here's an overview of the steps you'll take.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dog Beds
• Dog Blankets

1. Evaluate your dog's needs. How cold or hot is it where you live? What kind of dog do you have - long-haired, short-haired, husky or skinny? Is your dog outdoors most of the time?

2. Develop and draw a structural plan for your doghouse. You'll need to accommodate your pooch's size, the weather and such convenience factors as accessibility for cleaning.

3. Purchase or gather the supplies you'll need for building - adding such extras as insulation or roofing shingles if your doghouse plans become grander.

4. Build your doghouse according to your plan; consider building it on the spot where you'd like to have it sit.

Tips & Warnings

• See Related eHows for more in-depth information.

on 11/22/2005 If you install a roof, consider putting in cedar shingles. Cedar shingles are dog friendly, and if pieces fall off, the dog will still be safe (not so with regular roofing shingles).

on 11/22/2005 The dog must be able to lay down without being cramped.

on 11/22/2005 Put the entrance way to the side, rather than in the middle. This will help to make a corner for the dog to rest in, and will possibly keep him/her warmer.

on 11/22/2005 Check the specifics of the area in which it wil be situated; for instance, special construction additions should be made for high wind coditions. Have vertical support beams on the interior or exterior.

on 11/22/2005 When building a home for your dog, make sure that the opening is only large enough for it to enter and the inside only large enough for it to stand up and turn around. This will insure that his own body heat will be able to keep him warm in the house.