Building A Dog Run Easily DIY Style

Building a dog run isn’t as difficult as it sounds. In fact, if you have existing fencing around your property already, you can make use of that fencing as one side of the dog run. Then all you would need to purchase is the fencing for the other sides, the gate, posts, cement and ties. However, this assumes you would like a permanent run along the side of your fence (as you will be cementing the posts into the ground).

If you prefer a less permanent structure, you can purchase modular dog runs. These pre-packaged kits contain fencing, gate, posts and other requisite hardware to keep your dog safely contained. The less permanent dog run option has several additional benefits including the fact that you can take it with you when you travel. So, if you decide to visit relatives across the country or go camping, your portable dog run can keep your dog enclosed in unfamiliar territory and you won’t have to worry about him running off. Many online pet retailers as well as large pet stores have dog run kits available or can order them for you.

For the more permanent structure, a quick visit to your local Home Depot or other building supply store will turn up the necessary items you’ll need. For a dog run, you will need:

• quick fix cement
• enough chain link fencing to fence the area. Chain link fencing comes in different styles, so you might prefer a green garden fencing, standard silver, or brown color.
• gate or gates
• fence/garden ties (40 or more to attach the fencing to the posts)
• posts
• horseshoe nails
• tarp cover to protect the dog from sun or rain

First, make sure you pick a decent spot that isn’t in direct sunlight or in an area that floods. Dog runs are typically at least twice the length and width of the dog.

However, if your dog is very active or needs a big space to run, you should make the run larger to support his level of activity. Also, if your dog is going to spend a large portion of his day in the dog run, make it large enough to also support a dog house so he will have protection from the elements.

Decide where to put the gate, and make sure it’s in a spot easily accessible by you and your dog.

Begin by digging the holes for the post. Mix the cement. You will likely need the help of another person at this point, and have the person hold the posts steady in the holes as you pour the cement. The posts need to be held until the cement is firm enough to support them standing straight. Don’t continue with fencing until the posts have set in the cement. Once set, you add the fence ties to the posts. Leave between 6 and 9 inches between each tie and expect to have about 6 ties to a post. Now you can begin stretching and running the fencing and attaching to the ties. Use the horseshoe nails to secure the fencing. Now attach the gate, and you’re done.

Your dog now has a place to exercise without getting himself into danger.

Next article: Reasons For Installing A Dog Fence Or Dog Run