How to Roof a Dog Pen

Dog pens are convenient for keeping your dog outside in an enclosed safe space. When your dog is outside, it is imperative that he be able to get away from harsh elements such as extreme heat or rain. According to Canis Major, this is required by state and federal laws. When covering a dog pen, you want to make sure your dog will be able to move around enough and get enough air. Ideal coverings give the dog the option of being inside or outside the covering.

Things You'll Need

  • Plywood
  • Exterior wood sealer
  • Paint brush
  • Screwdriver
  • Screws
  • Measuring tape
  • Quick set cement
  • Gravel
  • Saw
  • Shovel
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine how much of the dog pen you wish to cover. For dog runs 10 feet or longer, you may wish to cover about 1/3 of the pen to give your dog a true indoor/outdoor pen. If the pen is smaller than this, it is best to cover the entire pen to keep your dog protected from the elements.

    • 2

      Measure the area you will cover.

    • 3

      Cut the plywood to the length and width you need for the roof.

    • 4

      Cut the 2x4 planks into four posts. Cut the first two 7 feet and the second two 6 feet 11 inches. This difference in height creates a slight slope to allow rain/snow runoff.

    • 5

      Screw the posts to the plywood corners. Use two screws per post, screwing them from the plywood down into the posts at least 3 inches deep.

    • 6

      Measure the length and width of the roof along the perimeter of the pen. Dig a 9 to 12 inch hole where each post will be set. Anchor the posts by burring them. Place the two shorter posts at the back of the pen so runoff goes away from the pen. You can use a quick set cement to set the posts by placing a bit of gravel at the bottom of the hole, placing the post in and filling the hole with the cement.

    • 7

      Seal the plywood with a exterior wood sealer. This will prevent the wood from swelling and cracking, creating a leaky roof.