How to Build an Outdoor Kennel Cover

Dogs enjoy being outdoors, but need shelter from the weather in all seasons. Whether the forecast calls for rain, snow or sunny conditions, don't leave your dog in its outdoor kennel unprotected. Build a roof to cover an existing kennel using a few simple supplies. The amount of materials needed for this project depends on the area of the outdoor kennel requiring coverage.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Wooden pallets
  • Hammer
  • Nails
  • Roofing tiles
  • Cable ties
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the total area of the kennel that you wish to cover. Include an overhang in your measurement. While a roof protects from weather, some open area should remain for your dog's enjoyment.

    • 2

      Purchase enough wooden pallets to cover the measured area. These may be available for free or at a discount price at a hardware store, farm store or retail store that regularly receives merchandise on large pallets. If a store has any available for free, they will be stacked near the garbage.

    • 3

      Place the pallets near the kennel area to make it easier to move the completed roof into position. Lay pallets side by side, topside down in order to nail the bases together.

    • 4

      Nail pallets together by hammering nails through one edge into the next edge. Insert a roofing nail every two inches to ensure a solid hold. Turn the unit over when finished.

    • 5

      Attach roofing tiles to the top of the pallets, in overlapping rows. Start from the bottom and work up, placing each new row of tiles halfway over the previous row. This pattern creates a surface that is durable and water resistant.

    • 6

      Place the cover over a portion of the kennel area. Attach it to a metal kennel with multiple large cable ties looped through the slats of the pallet and the edge of the kennel. If the kennel is wood, nail the cover in place.