How to Build a Large Doghouse for Mutiple Dogs

You generally need a doghouse if you have a dog you want to leave outside in the backyard a lot. For one thing, a doghouse will protect your dog from the hot sun. You don't need to buy an expensive doghouse because it is relatively simple to make one. When you do it yourself, you can also customize the look and size for the number of dogs you want to house.

Things You'll Need

  • 32 untreated 2x4 boards
  • 6 sheets of untreated 1/2-inch thick plywood
  • Hammer
  • Nails
  • Jigsaw
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Instructions

  1. The Base

    • 1

      Determine the size your doghouse. An average-size doghouse is roomy enough for a dog to stand in and turn around. A large doghouse for multiple dogs will be large enough for all of them to do that. Obviously, this depends on the number of dogs you're planning for, but a house about 5 feet square and 5 feet high should do quite well.

    • 2

      Take your 2x4 boards and create a square frame, nailing the boards together at the corners.

    • 3

      Fit a 1/2-inch thick plywood sheet over the top of the frame and nail them together.

    The Walls

    • 4

      Use your 2x4 boards again to create the four wall frames.

    • 5

      Attach a stud in the center of the frames for the side and rear walls. The front frame does not need one because there will be a door there.

    • 6

      Attach a 1/2-inch thick plywood sheet to the outside of each wall frame, nailing them together.

    • 7

      Before attaching the plywood to the front wall frame, use your jigsaw to cut out an appropriately sized door opening.

    • 8

      Position each wall properly on top of the base frame and nail them together through the bottom of the frame.

    The Roof

    • 9

      Use a 2x4 board to create two struts. Struts determine the pitch of the roof so cut them to the desired length.

    • 10

      Position the struts centered on the front and rear walls and attach them with nails through the bottom.

    • 11

      Use a 2x4 board as your ridge board. This determines the overhang of the roof in the front and back so cut to your desired length, place on top of the struts and nail into place.

    • 12

      Cut six rafters to the necessary length--this is determined by the angle of your roof--and nail them into place, three on each side.

    • 13

      Cut and nail a 1/2-inch thick plywood sheet into place on the roof top.

    Finishing Touches

    • 14

      Shingle the roof of your doghouse, if you desire. Shingles add a finished touch and help make the roof weather-resistant.

    • 15

      Paint the exterior, perhaps include nameplates on the front to personalize the house for your dogs.

    • 16

      Decorate the interior with either a cut-out piece of carpet or dog beds to make it cozy.