It's not too difficult to build your own dog house, all you need is a basic know-how, the necessary tools, a good level, a sharp saw, some strong nails and, of course, a hammer.
However, it's important not to rush the job and get it wrong.
I'm not here to teach you basic woodworking skills or give you the blueprints to a Mutt Mansion, but rather some basic considerations to make before you dive in.
There are several things to take into account when building your own dog house.
Consider the following: 1) Weather and Breed of Dog: It's safe to assume that, if you're building a doghouse for your pooch then your pet will be spending more time outside than inside.
If you live in a warmer climate zone, then you don't need to worry too much about insulation, but if you live where it's colder you'll need to heavily insulate your doghouse.
If you own a smaller dog with short hair, then your dog will get colder easier.
Not only will you need to provide plenty of insulation in your homemade dog house, you will also need to place blankets and have your dog wear a sweater or doggy jacket.
If you live in a colder environment and you have a Husky type of dog or a Border Collie with a longer coat, then your dog will have no problem living outside in its doghouse with less insulation.
On the contrary, if you live in a warmer climate and have a longhaired dog, then it's going to get hot.
You need to make sure to have extra air flow in your doghouse, and a good way to do this is to install a little window in one of the walls of your homemade doghouse.
2) Don't Build Your Dog House When Your Pet is a Puppy: Even if you're familiar with your breed of dog and think you have an idea of how big it's going to get, hold off building a doghouse until your pet is at least nine months old.
I work at a doggy daycare that also acts as a foster home for dogs.
One day we got a gigantic Weimaraner, when I asked how old it was my boss informed me that it was only 8 months old.
Apparently a father had bought the dog as a puppy for his 6-month old son.
But, much to his surprise, the dog kept growing and growing and growing and he had to get rid of it.
Wilber, as we named the dog, ended up being 99 pounds and, when standing on his hind legs, was as tall as me, and I'm 6 feet tall.
Point being, you never know how big your dog is going to get, so you need to make sure to build your dog house when your pet is fully grown.
3) Space Your dog must be able to turn around easily, sit down, stand up and curl up.
When building your doghouse make sure you adhere to this simple precaution.
Building your own doghouse can provide your pooch with solace, and is a great way to keep your dog happy while you're away.
Even though making your own doghouse is relatively simple, it's important not to take short cuts or get ahead of yourself.
Take all of the above into account and you'll do just fun and so will your furry friend.