How to Make Barrel Dog Houses

Dogs love to curl up in small spaces, and that's what makes a barrel dog house an ideal shelter. Barrel dog houses can be made from wooden, metal or plastic barrels; the dog really doesn't care as long as it is well-grounded and has sufficient bedding. Additionally, barrel dog houses are an inexpensive, do-it-yourself project that are lightweight and easy to maintain compared to other types of dog houses.

Things You'll Need

  • Plastic barrel
  • Permanent marker
  • Jigsaw
  • Metal file
  • Four blocks
  • Bedding
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find a plastic barrel. A 55-gallon barrel is suitable for small, medium and some large breeds.

    • 2

      Clean the barrel thoroughly and allow it to air dry.

    • 3

      Set the barrel up on one end.

    • 4

      Using a permanent marker, draw a half circle on one end of the barrel. This will be the opening from which the dog will enter and exit. Leave at least four to six inches at the bottom to hold the bedding inside the dog house.

    • 5

      Using a jigsaw, cut out the half circle and discard the section of plastic cut from the barrel.

    • 6

      Use a metal file to remove any rough edges from the cut edge of the barrel.

    • 7

      Drill a couple small holes in the bottom of the barrel for drainage.

    • 8

      Position two blocks in the back and two in the front so they cradle the barrel when the barrel is placed on top.

    • 9

      Place the barrel on top of the blocks.

    • 10

      Add bedding such as shavings, cedar chips, straw, pine needles or blankets.