How to Build a Dog Crate

A dog crate is a very useful piece of equipment to any dog owner who travels or keeps their dog inside the home. A dog crate is not one-size-fits-all. It must be sized for your dog and suited for your needs. Build a dog crate yourself to ensure you get the size and style of crate you want.

Instructions

1. Determine the size dog crate you need. Your dog should be able to stand, turn around and lie down. Too much space makes training your dog more difficult, and too little space is uncomfortable for the dog. Determining the size of a crate for a puppy can be hard. You can make a crate large enough for the puppy when full grown, but fit dividers inside to make the area suitable for the growing puppy.

2. Gather the materials for your dog crate. Crates can be made easily from wood, but any amount of chewing damages the crate. Using metal is more difficult, but lasts longer and is sturdier. Use angle iron for the frame of the crate.

3. Get the supplier or fabricator in your area to cut the iron after letting them know the sizes you need. You need four pieces of the same size for the corners, four pieces of the same size for the ends (two on each side) and four pieces of the same size for the length of the crate.

4. Weld the frame together or have a welder do it for you. The frame should sit squarely and evenly, without rocking or tipping. The corners should fit squarely and line up with the other iron.

5. Tack the iron mesh to the floor with a welding machine or have a welder do it for you. The iron mesh should be strong enough to support the weight of the dog without bending or sagging. Extra supports can be welded in place across the bottom under the mesh.

6. Add the remaining mesh on the sides and top of the crate. A separate smaller frame should be used for the door. Use smaller sized angle iron to make a square to fit one end of the crate. Use two hinges and a latch system to attach the gate.

7. Place plywood in the floor of the crate before welding the top of the crate. The plywood can be cleaned when it gets soiled, or you can put a dog bed on top of it.