How to Make a Dog Run for a Small Dog

No matter the size of your dog, it needs regular exercise to keep at a proper weight, work its heart and lungs and keep its joints in good shape. A dog run lets your dog spend time outdoors in a secure, controlled location. When building your run, keep in mind the exercise needs of your small-breed dog and how much space it needs to meet those requirements.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog kennel fencing kit
  • Dog kennel anchor kit
  • Wrench
  • Sledgehammer
  • Tarp
  • Wire clamps
  • Rope
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine the site for your dog run. The run should have access to both shade and sun and be in a safe place in the yard, preferably viewable from the windows of the house and away from a pool. You will need between 6 to 8 feet in width and 10 to 13 feet in length for the run.

    • 2

      Purchase a kennel fencing kit. There are a variety of types of kennel kits, allowing you to customize the size, shape and door type for your small dog. A run approximately 6 feet by 10 feet is good for very small dogs, while 8 feet by 13 feet is better for small to medium-small dogs.

    • 3

      Lay out and connect the pipes and frames according to the directions that come with your kennel kit. Use a wrench to tighten the nuts and bolts that connect the panels of the run.

    • 4

      Anchor the kennel to keep it from falling over and to tightly close any gaps between the lower fencing and the grass. Insert the driving rod into the anchor and drive each anchor into the ground at each corner of the kennel with the sledgehammer. Make sure to leave enough cord above ground to wrap around the kennel fencing.

    • 5

      Pull the driving rod out. Wrap the cord around the rod and pull up 4 to 5 inches so that the anchor is locked in the ground. Unwrap the wire.

    • 6

      Twist the wire around the vertical corner pipe of the kennel. Attach the clamp to the wire on the outside of the kennel and twist to tighten and secure. Repeat the procedure for all four corners.

    • 7

      Cover one corner or area of the kennel with tarp to provide shade and protection from the elements for your small dog. Attach the tarp with metal clamps or twine.