At Backyard Provider, we carry outdoor dog kennels and dog house kits in a wonderful range of sizes and configurations, designed to give your four-legged family member a comfortable, safe retreat right in your own backyard.
Considering a shelter for your pup? Every dog deserves a cozy space that keeps them warm during chilly nights and cool when the sun is blazing. With thoughtful planning and the right design, you can provide your pet with a home that is both functional and charming. Browse through our inspired dog house and kennel ideas below to spark your next backyard project.
Building or choosing a dog kennel is a rewarding project for the entire household. Before you start shopping for materials, it pays to think carefully about a few key factors: your daily routine, your dog's specific needs, how many pets you own, the climate where you live, and how much you want to invest in the build.
Dog House Planning Tips
Essential considerations before you begin:
Purpose: Determine the primary function of the dog house before starting your project:
- Will this be a charming little hangout spot where your pup can relax outdoors?
- Does it need to provide insulation, keeping your dog cool in summer and warm in winter?
- Should the kennel blend seamlessly with your backyard landscape and existing decor?
- Are you planning an indoor retreat, an outdoor shelter, or perhaps a combination of both?
Size: Bigger is not always better — always match the kennel size to your dog's breed and build.
- Dogs naturally feel more secure and settled in a snug, appropriately sized space.
- A toy breed will thrive in a compact shelter rather than an oversized structure.
- The right proportions help your pet use its own body heat to stay warm during cold weather.
Indoor or Outdoor: Dogs generally fall into two categories — indoor companions or outdoor adventurers. An indoor dog house can be a stylish accent piece that tucks under a side table or fits neatly into a corner. Because indoor spaces are climate-controlled, temperature regulation is less of a concern. An outdoor kennel, on the other hand, needs to withstand the elements, so material durability and proper ventilation become critical factors.
Location: Where will your dog's home sit? For an outdoor kennel, keep these points in mind:
- Pay attention to sun exposure — choose a spot that offers a healthy mix of sunlight and shade throughout the day.
- Think about wind patterns. Avoid placing the kennel in a wind tunnel between buildings or fences.
- Account for rain and drainage. Raising the kennel a few inches off the ground helps keep the interior dry.
- Consider proximity to your own living space. Outdoor dog houses can occasionally develop odors depending on ventilation and materials, so placement matters.
- Remember, dogs are social creatures who love being near their family. A kennel placed too far from the household may leave your pup feeling isolated and reluctant to use it.
Mobile or Permanent: Along with location, decide whether you want a portable kennel you can reposition around your yard or a fixed, permanent structure. This choice affects both the materials you select and the overall architectural style of the dog house.
Design & Style: What aesthetic are you going for? Ask yourself:
- Will it be a classic four-wall-and-roof design, or something more unique and eye-catching?
- Would you like ventilation features to improve airflow during warmer months?
- Many dog houses use wood construction — would a removable roof make cleaning simpler?
- For indoor dog houses, the location often dictates the style. A repurposed cabinet, a custom nook under the stairs, or a decorative crate can all serve beautifully as your small dog's personal den.
Choose Quality Dog Kennel Materials
Our commitment to offering the highest quality dog house and kennel kits is what has made Backyard Provider a trusted destination for pet owners and backyard builders across the country.
Your Dog's Habits: Take a moment to observe how your dog naturally behaves:
- Does your pup love basking in the sunshine for hours on end?
- Perhaps your Labrador prefers elevated sleeping spots with a view?
- Factor in these natural tendencies when designing the kennel — you may want an elevated platform or an attached sunbathing deck.
- Would a small porch or lounging area outside the entrance make your dog's day?
Bedding: Keeping your dog's bedding clean and dry is essential for a hygienic, pleasant-smelling kennel. Dogs are instinctive den animals that find comfort in cozy, enclosed spaces. Your furry companion will be happiest resting on soft, plush bedding inside a well-proportioned shelter that feels like home.
When it comes to designing a dog house, the possibilities are endless. Your creation could be a miniature replica of your own home, complete with matching paint and trim. It could resemble a rustic cabin, a vintage camper, or even a fire station. The only limit is your imagination — because nothing is too good for your best friend.
Make sure to explore Backyard Provider's full selection of outdoor dog kennels and shed kits to find the perfect match for your next backyard project. We carry a wide range of styles and sizes to help you create the ideal home for your loyal companion.
EZ-Fit 4x7 Dog Kennel