When it comes to outdoor dog kennels, one of the most frequently asked questions is how big they should be. Choosing the right size of a dog kennel with a shed is crucial for your dog’s happiness and optimal health. Your dog should have enough room in the kennel to stand straight, sit, lay down, turn around, and stretch out without being cramped. If your dog has sufficient space to move about without slamming into the walls, it won’t feel cramped. Additionally, the top must be elevated enough so the dog’s head and tail cannot contact it while standing.

When choosing the right dimension of the kennel, you need to pay attention to your dog’s breed. Larger breeds, particularly very active ones, may need more room than smaller, calmer breeds. In addition, if you are buying an outdoor dog kennel for your puppy, you shouldn’t get a smaller one because the puppy will outgrow it.

Choosing the right size of a dog kennel can be quite a challenge- you may end up purchasing a smaller one that will only make your dog uncomfortable. This article discusses how you can choose the right size of an outdoor kennel for your dog. Let’s get started.

Why the size of the outdoor dog kennel matters?

When picking a kennel, size and quality are two very significant considerations. Dogs don’t like to use the potty where they sleep. Thus, cages are designed to prevent this from happening. However, the dog will be more inclined to go potty if the cage is too big.  Conversely, an animal will undoubtedly feel uncomfortable in a too-small cage.

Sizing an outdoor kennel

Since dogs are frequently left for longer periods, outdoor kennels, which can be used for breeding or boarding, must be larger than indoor kennels. The kennel should be long and narrow in these situations.

A space of 5 feet by 15 feet is excellent for larger breeds. Cleaning will be simpler because the dogs are encouraged to choose a single location on either end of the kennel to relieve themselves.

Facts to consider when choosing an outdoor dog kennel

Here are the essential factors you need to consider to ensure you choose the right outdoor kennel for your dog.

1. The size of the dog

The dog’s size should be your primary consideration when choosing the appropriate kennel size. However, you should also consider your dog’s degree of energy, skills, and typical kennel time. A dog in a dog kennel with a shed will always require greater space to run around. In most circumstances, a longer kennel is preferable. Your dog will value having room to play and run around.

Their height has a huge role in determining their size. Ensure your dog can stand on its hind legs in the new kennel without bumping its head. You should also provide an enclosed sleeping space. It must be spacious enough for your dog to lay down however they please. However, dogs prefer homes with a den-like feel, so having a comfortable sleeping room within the kennel is a great idea.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals advises dog owners to use a kennel at least 10 feet by 10 feet or 5 feet by 15 feet for additional assistance. Large, active dogs benefit from kennels that are longer than 15 feet. You might be able to add panels to an outdoor kennel kit you buy for your dog to change the size. Even for small dogs, it’ better to stay away from less than five feet wide kennels.

Here is how to measure your dog to determine the right size of a kennel

Hold a flexible measuring tape at your dog’s feet and extend it to the top of its head for an accurate measurement. To obtain the recommended standing height, multiply this measurement by two to seven inches. This measurement will consider the height of the dog’s rear legs.

The dog should then be measured from the tip of its nose to its tail. You don’t need to measure the entire dog’s tail if it is lengthy. Once more, multiply this measurement by two to seven inches to acquire the proper kennel length for your dog.

2. Location

It is no secret that you will place your outdoor dog kennel with a shed in your yard or garden. So it is important to consider the amount of space in your yard where you will place the outdoor dog kennel.

You are lucky if you have a larger space that can comfortably hold a larger kennel. In other words, the amount of space in your yard can determine the size of an outdoor kennel you get for your friend.

3. Budget

Your budget will also impact the size of the outdoor kennel you purchase. Generally, larger outdoor kennels cost more than smaller dog kennels. This implies that if you want a larger kennel that your dog can feel more comfortable in, you must dig deeper into your pockets.

4. Cleaning

The outdoor kennel must be kept clean for your dog’s health and happiness. Dirt and grass may not be the best for your kennel’s floor or ground. It can soon turn into mud depending on where you live, which makes cleaning particularly challenging.

Cleaning a larger dog kennel with a shed is quite hectic. But if you have the time to commit to regularly cleaning a bigger kennel, you can go ahead and purchase it.

Final thoughts

There are no precise measurements because dogs come in various sizes and breeds. Your dog should be able to stand up, lie down, and turn around in the kennel you select. The kennel should generally be 1 to 1.5 times your dog’s length (excluding the tail). Having a kennel with more ventilation would be more comfortable if you live in a warm climate. It can be preferable to have a kennel that is cozier if you reside in a cooler region. It is important to look at the size of the dog’s parents when buying a kennel for a puppy because this will give you a fair idea of how big the puppy will get.

Check out more blogs such as “what are the benefits of a custom dog kennel” or “tips for choosing dog kennels.“