Outdoor Habitat for a Dog Cage

Outdoor dog cages allow your dog to be outdoors unsupervised and get exercise without your supervision. Although dogs should not be kept in outdoor dog cages for long periods of times, a warm, sunny afternoon spent outdoors can be beneficial for your dog's happiness and well-being. Creating a safe and comfortable habitat for your dog involves creating a large enough cage and providing him with the things he needs to be healthy and happy.

  1. Area

    • The size of the pen is the first consideration, as you need to provide your dog with adequate space to run around and get exercise. Larger dogs will require a large space. Additionally, the ground cover of your outdoor dog cage can create different habitats. Grass provides a more natural ground covering for the habitat. However, it can be difficult to mow and maintain, and can be a breeding ground for ticks. Concrete and gravel are also frequently used as an alternate ground covering for outdoor dog cages.

    Fencing

    • There are many fencing options to consider when building your outdoor dog cage habitat. The cage itself is designed to keep your dog safely inside her pen, and so you must consider the size and behavior of your dog when determining the material and height of your dog cage. Large dogs need fences that are high enough to prevent them from attempting to jump out. If your dog likes to dig, creating a concrete foundation for your fence will help keep your dog safely inside the pen. Fences can be made of chain link fencing or welded rod mesh. A smaller mesh fencing will protect smaller dogs.

    Dog Shelters

    • If you are setting up your outdoor dog cage habitat in a location that has extreme temperatures, it is important to provide adequate shelter for your dog. If your dog habitat is in an extremely hot area, provide plenty of shade in the form of trees and vegetation. In addition, insulated outdoor dog shelters are available for both hot and cold climates. Cold weather shelters are insulated to keep heat in, allowing your dog's body heat to keep him warm. Outdoor shelters for warm climates have ventilation and provide shade for your dog.

    Supplies

    • Once you've created your outdoor dog cage habitat, it's important to provide your dog with plenty of toys, food and water to keep him busy and provide him with exercise while inside it. Especially in hot temperatures, adequate water is essential for the health and safety of your dog. Toys keep your dog busy while inside the dog cage and prevent them from barking or destructive behavior.