How to Build a Kennel and Run for a Pitbull

Pit bulls are incredibly intelligent dogs, and can be affectionate and loyal if they're raised correctly. They are also large, high-energy dogs, and require quite a bit of outdoor time for exercise. If you don't have a fenced yard, or want to build a smaller enclosure for your pit bull to have some personal space, mark out a spot for a small run and kennel area.

Things You'll Need

  • Premade kennel kit:
  • 1 roof, 6 by 12
  • 1 front wall with roof
  • 2 walls, 6 by 12
  • 1 rear wall
  • Rake
  • 5 cubic yards concrete (3,000 PSI)
  • Wooden boards (size unimportant)
  • Water
  • Broom
  • Doghouse
  • Food
  • Blankets
  • Toys
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Decide on the location for your kennel. Put it in a place that is close enough to your house for easy access, offers both sun and shade, and is ideally somewhat protected from the elements, like wind. Once you've chosen your site, make sure that it is as level as possible. Remove litter, rocks, leaves, branches etc. and rake the site to even it out.

    • 2

      Build a concrete foundation for your kennel, for easy cleaning. Lay out the foundation by pressing boards into the dirt to mark a 13 by 8-foot area. These will hold the concrete that you pour in place. Mix concrete per the directions and pour a layer of concrete into the are you've marked out. Make sure the layer is at least 4 inches thick. Rough the concrete with the broom to give the dog better purchase on the foundation. Let the concrete dry for 24 hours. This will be the location of your kennel; the run can be enlarged by buying additional fence and fencing in a larger area.

    • 3

      Obtain a pre-manufactured kennel kit, available at pet stores and online retailers. Kits come with pre-measured and designed pieces, and a list of tools. This will make the job quicker and less expensive than buying supplies on your own. Read the label on the kit to ensure that you're buying a setup large enough for your pit bull, and the foundation that you poured.

    • 4

      Build the kennel and run per the directions that came with the kit. Secure the back of the kennel to one side first, so that it can stand on its own while you work with the rest of the kit. Secure the second side, then the front of the kennel, and then the roof. Make sure all screws and bolts are tight and secure before you put your pit bull in the kennel.

    • 5

      "Decorate" the kennel with a smaller doghouse for shelter, and include blankets, toys, food and water.