How to Fence a Dog Run

When you have a dog, one of the most important responsibilities is to make sure it gets enough exercise. For people who have a yard, this requirement is easily met. But for people whose yard is unfenced, or who want a more controlled situation, building an outdoor run with a dog house inside might be a good idea.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Boards (2 8-foot long, 2 13-foot long boards)
  • Hammer
  • Premade dog run kit:
  • *1 roof, 6 feet by 12 feet
  • *1 front wall with roof
  • *2 walls, 6 feet by 12 feet
  • *1 rear wall
  • 5 cubic yards concrete (3,000 PSI)
  • Water
  • Broom
  • Work gloves
  • Doghouse
  • Food
  • Blankets
  • Toys
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a spot for your dog house. The run should have access to both sun and shade, and be protected from elements like wind if possible. Put the run close to the house, in a spot where you can easily supervise it.

    • 2

      Purchase a premade kit for a dog run at a pet store. Using a premade kit will save you both time and money, and guarantee that the construction stands up over time. Purchase a kit that fits the foundation you plan to pour.

    • 3

      Measure for the run. Building a fenced area rather than a traditional dog house will keep the dog safer, and keep you from having to tie the dog to the house if you don't have a yard. Measure and mark an area of 8 feet by 13 feet, using stakes at the corners. Measure a larger run for a larger dog (a Great Dane, for example, should have a run of 20 to 25 feet by 10 feet or so). Design your run for your dog's personal needs. Hammer your boards into the ground from stake to stake to build a frame for the area. Consider building a larger run for larger dogs by measuring out a larger area.

    • 4

      Mix concrete in a bucket, per the directions on the bag. Pour the concrete into your frame to construct a foundation at least 4 inches deep. Leave the concrete to dry for an hour, then rough up the surface with a broom. Allow 23 hours more of drying time.

    • 5

      Construct the dog run according to the instructions, using the parts that come with the kit. Stand the back of the structure up and attach it to one side. Move on to the other side, then the front, and then the roof.

    • 6

      Put blankets, toys, food and water dishes, etc. in your outdoor dog run. If you want to give the dog extra shelter, consider putting a premade dog house in the run as well, and supply it with blankets.