kennels

[obi2 239]

iv got new kennels to build. im wanting to build a really good decent set that will do me for years and look really good. iv got a couple of basic ideas so im wondering if some of yous could post some pictures of your kennels and bedding areas on here and see if i can take a couple ideas from yous. appreciated guys

Edited September 9, 2012 by obi2

[p3d 879]

obi2,

My suggestion would be to look at the space you have available and apply some basic rules that would get you going in the right direction to trouble free kennels.

If like most terriermen in these islands you are looking at a back garden.

and something bigger than a back yard.

Then you are lucky enough to have this kind of space to start with.

Check the way the Sun reaches all parts of the space available.

Then choose your location so that the kennel concrete slab takes best advantage of this position.

See the next post for ideas with the slab.(the images are too big for one post)

[p3d 879]

IMO The concrete slab and drainage is probably the most important part of a trouble free kennel.

 

The slope of the yard should be more than 4 degrees from FRONT to BACK.

 

This is important for the waste to run off easily.

Nearly every builder will try to convince you that this is not necessary.

They are wrong. They are used to building driveways and footpaths, not animal yards.

 

Build a kerb into the front.

 

And a drain with the same slope into the back of the yard.

 

 

I prefer an open drain as shown.

some people prefer a closed drain.

 

Place an insulated dog box raised 50mm(2") off the yard.

 

Finish with custom made galvanized panels and gate. Again 50mm(2") raised off the yard.

The panels have to be made to allow for the slope.

The panels that are generally advertised for sale are flat at the bottom.

Look at the image, flat panels would allow the dog to get out at the gap created by the slope.

 

A roof area at the front can be added later. useful for.

1. Shelter for the dog to sit out when it is raining. otherwise he is stuck in the house all day.

2. Shelter for the owner to handle the dog standing on the house as a table. i.e cleaning down after working.

3. Shelter the owner and house internal while changing bedding in bad weather.

4. Collects rainwater to flush the yard.

5. External lighting can be mounted underneath.

 

Run the waste back to the front of the yard.

In the image it is shown open but it would normally be underground running back towards the house drainage system (Sewage piping).

 

With this arrangement the owner stands at the highest point of the slab at the front.

The dog sits out and eats at the front of the yard.

It can also sit on top of the house, nearly all dogs will. This maximizes the area and provides a bench for handling.

The dog has the choice to crap at the back of the yard. Away from his sitting out position, his house entrance and his food.

Not all dogs will do this but you would be surprised how many will.

 

If the rainwater is captured at the front of the yard, it can be used to flush the yard without entering each kennel.

It is not difficult to arrange for the flush to tip out when full and return to the original position.

It will do this each time it rains.

Even if this is not installed, the owner can hose the kennels from the gate back to the drain.

 

Once you get your head around what you want it becomes easier to design the yard that suits you.

 

ATB

P3D

[obi2 239]

Thanks for taking the time to post that mate. Drainage was where I failed with my current kennels so il be taking all this into account.

[spade 224]

Excellent and informative post P3d.

[ollywilli 49]

That is the best kennel advice I have ever seen, top post

[skycat 6,173]

Brilliant advice there And with superb diagrams: Love the rain flush system: do the dogs get a warning bell when a mini tidal wave sweeps through their run?

[STAFFY poacher 90]

very informative post, should be locked for all to see

[Bosun11 537]

Pd3 thats about the best advice i've seen on kennel construction. I hope many will take note.

[northern lad 2,292]

Superb post mate,(as a builder myself I feel a little chastised )the reason a builder would recomend a level slab is obvious this should be pinned for future referance,thanks for taking the time to post.ATB Dave Have you considered a career in planning?...........

[tango 221]

definately needs pinned

[p3d 879]

Brilliant advice there And with superb diagrams: Love the rain flush system: do the dogs get a warning bell when a mini tidal wave sweeps through their run?

 

Thanks Skycat,

 

A small hole is drilled just below the water level before it tips over. (This is called a "Tell" in piping).

This will shoot out a stream of water a couple of minutes before the tsunami!!

 

What is great about dogs is how well they are aware of their enivironment.

Two flushes and they are clued in.

 

The 4 degree slope allows the yard to dry quickly and stop puddles.

The dogs pads are healthier and eliminates the use of "Jeyes Fluid" type products.

These scented products should be banned from working dog kennels IMO. They contain chemicals which supress the sense of smell.

 

Imagine in human terms if someone came into our house and placed powerful spotlights around the walls in every room.

How damaged would our vison be after a couple of months.

 

 

ATB

[marshman 7,757]

Excellent post p3d!! This should be pinned.

[jigsaw 11,863]

you on the whiskey again p3d.............cause that was awe inspiring,lol.Some day Im going to meet up with you at a show and ask about your flush system(is that the right name) you have in your kennells.i spent a lot on my new kennells and its still a work in progress,roofs are my next big adventure but finance dictate it wont be done for a while yet.The problem im dealing with now it the fekin terrier eating her box,its got french doors now but it started as a small opening.

[p3d 879]

you on the whiskey again p3d.............cause that was awe inspiring,lol.Some day Im going to meet up with you at a show and ask about your flush system(is that the right name) you have in your kennells.i spent a lot on my new kennells and its still a work in progress,roofs are my next big adventure but finance dictate it wont be done for a while yet.The problem im dealing with now it the fekin terrier eating her box,its got french doors now but it started as a small opening.

 

Anytime L.

Just call up. Money is an issue here too.

I still have a gate kept closed with 2 blocks.

Promised myself I would put a latch on during the summer.