10+ DIY Cheap Dog Kennel Ideas – Homemade Outdoor Pet Boarding Kennels Ideas to Try

If you have a dog, then you know how important it is to provide them with comfortable and safe housing. A dog kennel is the best way to do this—and while it may seem like a costly investment, there are actually plenty of DIY cheap dog kennel ideas that won’t break the bank!

DIY Cheap Dog Kennel Plans

In this blog post, we’ll be exploring 10+ DIY Cheap Dog Kennel Ideas so you can build your pup their own custom dog house. From using natural materials to upcycling old furniture and more, let’s explore all the options available!

DIY Farmhouse-Inspired Dog Kennel House

When it comes to giving your furry friend their own space, a dog kennel is a great option. But why settle for a boring, store-bought kennel when you can DIY one that’s both stylish and functional?

With a little bit of creativity, you can build a dog kennel that looks like it belongs in a magazine. And the best part is, it won’t break the bank. Check out these DIY farmhouse-inspired dog kennels that will make your pup feel right at home.

DIY Farmhouse-Inspired Dog Kennel House

  • Repurpose an old dresser into a dog kennel. This is a great way to upcycle furniture that you might otherwise get rid of. Simply remove the drawers and add some cushions or blankets for your pup to curl up in.
  • Build a simple wooden frame kennel and cover it with chicken wire. This option is super easy to construct and can be customized to any size you need. Just be sure to use chicken wire that’s sturdy enough to keep your pup safe and secure.
  • Transform an old bookshelf into a chic dog closet. This is perfect for small spaces since it doesn’t take up much floor space. Simply remove the shelves and add some soft bedding for your pup to lounge on.
  • Create a rustic dog den using pallets. This is a great option if you’re looking for something more heavy-duty and weather.

Outdoor Dog Kennel Made from PVC Pipe

If you have an outdoor dog, chances are you’re always on the lookout for a cheap way to build them a kennel. PVC pipe is a great material for just that! You can easily build a small, medium, or large kennel out of PVC pipe and some basic supplies from your local hardware store.

Outdoor Dog Kennel Made from PVC Pipe

Here’s how:

  • Choose the size of the kennel you want to build. This will determine how much PVC pipe you’ll need.
  • Cut the PVC pipe into pieces according to your chosen kennel size.
  • Assemble the frame of the kennel using the cut PVC pipe and fittings. Make sure everything is secure and level.
  • Attach chicken wire or another type of fencing material to the frame to create the walls of the kennel.
  • Add a roof if desired (optional). You can use more chicken wire, tarps, or even old sheets or blankets secured with rope or bungee cords.
  • That’s it! Your dog now has a new outdoor home that was built at a fraction of the cost of buying a premade kennel or hiring someone to build one for you!

DIY Fence-Style Dog Run

A dog run is a great way to keep your pet safe and secure while providing them with plenty of room to run and play. But, building a traditional fence-style dog run can be expensive. Here is a DIY solution that is much cheaper and just as effective.

DIY Fence-Style Dog Run

  • Start by creating a perimeter for your dog run using inexpensive chain link fencing. Make sure the fencing is tall enough that your dog cannot jump over it.
  • Next, add some shade to the area by installing a tarp or canopy above the fence. This will help keep your dog cool in the summer months.
  • Finally, add some toys and other enrichment items to the dog run so your pet has something to do while they are inside. This could include a chew toy, bones, or even a small pool for them to splash around on hot days.

DIY Iron Pipe Crate

Looking for a cheap way to make a dog crate? Check out this DIY iron pipe crate! It’s made from inexpensive materials and is easy to put together. Plus, it looks great and will keep your dog safe and comfortable. Here’s how to do it:

  • Start by measuring the length and width of your iron pipes. Cut them to size with a saw.
  • Next, use a drill to make holes in the pipes. These will be used to attach the boards that will make up the sides of the crate.

DIY Iron Pipe Crate

  • Cut the boards to size and then attach them to the pipes using screws or nails. Make sure that the boards are securely attached so that your dog cannot escape.
  • Finally, add a door to the crate so that your dog can get in and out easily. You can use a piece of wood or metal for this. Just make sure that it is securely attached so that your dog cannot push it open from the inside.

DIY Pallet Kennel

If you have some extra pallets laying around, put them to good use by creating a DIY pallet kennel for your furry friend. This is a great way to upcycle materials and create a functional and stylish dog kennel on a budget.

To get started, you’ll need:

  • 4 Pallets
  • 1 Sheet of Plywood
  • Nails or screws
  • Paint or sealant (optional)

DIY Pallet Kennel

First, arrange the pallets in a rectangular shape. If you want the kennel to be elevated off the ground, stack two pallets on top of each other. Secure the pallets together with nails or screws.

Next, cut the plywood to fit the opening of the kennel. Attach the plywood to the frame with nails or screws. You may want to paint or seal the wood to protect it from weather damage or chewing.

Finally, add bedding and toys to make your pet’s new space comfortable and inviting.

Also Read: Amazing DIY Bed Frame Ideas to Try in This Year

DIY Rustic Wooden Crate

If you’re looking for a cheap and easy way to build a dog kennel, then consider using some old wooden crates. With a little bit of elbow grease, you can turn these crates into a rustic and stylish dog kennel that will be sure to make your furry friend happy.

To start, simply sand down the crates to remove any rough edges. Once they’re smooth, you can stain or paint them any colour you like. We recommend using a dark stain or paint to really give them that rustic look.

DIY Rustic Wooden Crate

Once the crates are stained or painted, it’s time to start assembling them. You can either build a simple rectangular kennel or get creative and build something more unique. Just make sure that the sides are tall enough so your dog can’t escape!

Once you’ve built your crate, line the bottom with some comfortable bedding and add in some toys and water dishes. Then just let your dog enjoy their new home sweet home!

Fence Panel Dog Run

If you’re looking for an inexpensive way to build a dog kennel, one option is to use fence panels. This type of dog run is easy to construct and can be tailored to any size or shape. Plus, it provides plenty of ventilation and drainage.

Here’s what you’ll need to build a fence panel dog run:

  • Fence panels
  • Posts
  • Concrete mix
  • Gravel
  • Tar paper
  • Landscape fabric
  • Wire mesh
  • Dog kennel cover (optional)

Fence Panel Dog Run

Start by setting the posts in concrete at the desired location for your dog run. Then, attach the fence panels to the posts using screws or nails. Be sure to leave gaps between the panels so that air can circulate.

Dog Kennel on Wheels

No matter where you live, your dog needs a comfortable place to call home. If you have a backyard, that’s great! But what if you don’t? Or what if you want to take your dog with you on camping trips or to the beach? That’s where a dog kennel on wheels comes in handy.

A dog kennel on wheels is exactly what it sounds like – a kennel for your dog that is mounted on wheels. This makes it easy to move around and even easier to store when not in use. Plus, it means your dog can have his own space no matter where you go.

There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a dog kennel on wheels. First, make sure the kennel is big enough for your dog to comfortably stand up, turn around, and lie down. Second, look for one with plenty of ventilation so your dog doesn’t overheat. And finally, choose a kennel that is easy to clean – after all, accidents happen!

Dog Kennel on Wheels

Once you’ve found the perfect dog kennel on wheels, it’s time to get creative with how you use it. Here are some ideas:

  • Use it as an outdoor playpen for your pup when he needs some fresh air but you can’t be outside with him.
  • Bring it along on camping trips or picnics for a safe place for your pup to relax.

Dog Crate End Table

If your dog must spend time in a crate, make it feel more like home with a custom dog crate end table. This easy-to-follow tutorial will show you how to build a dog crate end table that is both stylish and functional. Perfect for small spaces, this dog crate end table will provide your furry friend with a comfortable place to rest while keeping your home looking chic.

Dog Crate end Table

Old Crib Dog Crate

When it comes to dog crates, there are a lot of different options on the market. But if you’re looking for a cheap dog crate that won’t break the bank, an old crib might be the way to go.

An old crib can easily be converted into a dog crate with a few simple modifications. And since it’s likely that you can find an old crib for free or very cheap, this is definitely a budget-friendly option.

To turn an old crib into a dog crate, you’ll need to remove one of the sides of the crib. Then, use some wood screws to attach a piece of wire mesh to the opening. This will create a door for your dog to enter and exit the crate.

Old Crib Dog Crate

You may also want to line the bottom of the crate with a mat or some other type of bedding to make it more comfortable for your pup. And that’s it! You now have a homemade dog crate that didn’t cost you very much money.

Barn Door Dog Crate Cover

If you have a dog that is crated when you are away from home, you know how important it is to make sure the crate is comfortable and stylish. A barn door dog crate cover is a great way to do both! This DIY project is easy to do and only requires a few materials. Plus, it will make your dog’s crate look like a piece of furniture instead of an eyesore.

To make a barn door dog crate cover, you will need:

  • 1/4″ plywood
  • Paint or wood stain
  • Stencils (optional)
  • Ruler or measuring tape
  • Circular saw or jigsaw
  • High-grit sandpaper
  • Drill
  • 1″ screws
  • L brackets
  • Hinges

Start by measuring the width and height of your dog’s crate. Cut the plywood to these dimensions using a circular saw or jigsaw. Sand down the edges of the plywood until they are smooth. Then, paint or stain the plywood to your desired colour. If you want to add some personality to the cover, use stencils to create patterns on the wood before painting or staining.

Barn Door Dog Crate Cover

Next, drill holes along the sides of the plywood. These holes will be used to attach the hinges. Screw the hinges into place, making sure that they are level and aligned with each other. Then, attach the L brackets to the inside corners of the crate.

DIY Wooden Garden Kennel

A garden kennel is a great way to keep your dog safe and comfortable while outdoors. But buying one can be expensive. Luckily, there are several DIY options that are both cheap and easy to build.

One simple option is to build a wooden kennel using lumber from your local hardware store. This option is fairly easy to construct and can be customized to fit any size dog.

DIY Wooden Garden Kennel

Another option is to upcycle an old plastic storage shed into a kennel. This is a great option if you have an old shed that you’re no longer using. Simply clean out the shed and add some bedding, food, and water, and your dog will have a cozy new home.

If you’re feeling really ambitious, you could even build a kennel from scratch using materials like chicken wire and wood posts. This option takes a bit more time and effort, but it’s definitely doable if you’re handy with tools.

2-in-1 DIY Furniture Crate

Assuming you want a crate that will house your dog and also serve as a piece of furniture, here are some things to consider:

  • Size: You’ll want to make sure the crate is big enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Measure your dog before beginning any construction.
  • Style: There are a variety of styles you can choose from including end table crates, bookshelf crates, coffee table crates, and more. Consider what style would best fit in with your home’s décor.
  • Construction: Once you’ve decided on the size and style of crate you want, it’s time to start building! If you’re not the handy type, there are plenty of online retailers that sell ready-made crates. Otherwise, gather up some woodworking supplies and get to work!

2-in-1 DIY Furniture Crate

Takeaway: These are some interesting ideas for building a dog kennel.

There are a number of interesting ideas for building a dog kennel that can save you money. One idea is to build the kennel out of pallets. Pallets are often used in shipping and can be found for free or very cheaply. You can also use other reclaimed materials such as old fencing or lattice.

Another great idea is to build a simple A-frame structure. This can be done with lumber from a home improvement store and some basic carpentry skills. The A-frame will provide shelter from the elements and keep your dog contained.

If you want something more elaborate, you could build a doghouse with a porch attached. This could be a fun project to do with the family and would provide your dog with a comfortable place to call home.

No matter what design you choose, be sure to include plenty of ventilation and shade in your dog kennel. Dogs can get overheated very easily, so it’s important to make sure they have plenty of fresh air and cool spots to relax in.

DIY Cheap Dog Kennel Ideas

DIY Dog Kennels FAQs

What is the best base for a dog kennel?

Several DIY kennels are made with concrete floors, but they are hard on the joints of dogs and can cause injuries to their bones. A far better alternative to hardwood is rubber flooring, epoxy flooring, plastic flooring, vinyl flooring, and engineered wood flooring.

What does putting a blanket over a kennel do?

By limiting visual stimuli in the crate, crate covers help reduce anxiety in many dogs and can reduce barking and excitement by reducing visual stimulation.

Should I put a pee pad in the kennel?

Your puppy should never be left in the crate with pee pads. Your puppy will learn that it is okay to go potty inside his crate not only because it is a danger to chew on, but also because it is a pain to clean. Puppies can be confined for a long time using pee pads.

When should your dog stop sleeping in a crate?

After your dog reaches the age of two, there’s usually no need for them to sleep in the crate anymore. Their chances of getting into trouble are higher before then. In the absence of supervision, they cannot behave properly until they have reached full maturity. The longer it takes for larger dogs to mature, the more likely they are to do so.

hitesh soni

hitesh soni

Hitesh is the founder of Pay Later Alligator and is passionate about writing. His love for interiors and design extends to all things aesthetic. Reading books, camping, and going to the beach are some of his favourite things to do in his free time.