Beyond Know How

If you are using chain link fencing to enclose your dog kennel and run, you will need to make sure that you secure the bottom of the fencing or your dog will most likely simply push himself out.

There are different things you can do to strengthen the bottom of the chain link fence.  One is to attach a galvanized pipe to the bottom of the uprights, though make sure you also buy the right fixtures to attach them with.  Alternatively, you can greatly strengthen the bottom by weaving air line cable in and out of the chain link fencing every couple of feet.  While this will strengthen the fence so the dog can’t push it out and escape, it won’t be much help if your dog is a digger.

If you are worried about your dog digging himself out, the simplest modification is to buy additional chicken wire, which is pretty cheap, and attach it to the bottom of the link fencing about a foot up the fence. You’ll then need to dig out around the fence, and bury about two feet of the chicken wire into the ground.  I have even seen a dog dig out the chicken wire, he loved to dig wherever the ground had been recently turned over, but it usually works fairly well. If you are worried that your dog will dig where you have dug the trench, just cover that area with gravel, or lay something else on it for a time till the ground hardens.

Maintenance of your dog kennel is one of the most important jobs that needs to be performed on a regular basis. This is needed to keep your dog kennel clean and ensure a healthy living environment for your beloved canine friend. It can be as simple as patching up any worn areas or washing down the kennel floor. If you do wash down your kennel floor, then bleach is great to use to get rid of those tough stains, but, and this is very important, any areas that do come into contact with bleach must be thoroughly rinsed. Bleach is a pretty harmful product and can lead to serious burns on your dog’s paws so make sure that you do this after every wash. It’s not a hard job to maintain your dog kennel, so do it for yourself and your dog. More information about dog kennel maintenance can be found at this Kennels For DogsWebsite.

photo credit: Karen Roe

Dogs are known as man’s best friend. The truth is that dogs usually seem to be very happy and excitable. Although they are usually happy, some dogs absolutely dread going into their dog kennels. Below are a few ideas you can use to keep your dog happy while he is in his kennel.

Idea #1: Keep some form of pillow in the dog’s kennel at all times. I’m not suggesting taking one of your own pillows and placing it in the kennel, but perhaps an old pillow or one that can be purchased at a pet shop. Having a pillow will help the dog feel comfortable while in his kennel.

Idea #2: Be firm and consistent. Chances are at first your dog isn’t going to be that excited about going into his kennel. I wouldn’t be that excited either! I mean who wants to spend all of their time cramped up in a small area. However if you are firm with the dog, after a while he/she will realize that it is just part of life and will actually be pretty happy about heading to the kennel for a nap.

Idea #3: Make sure your dog gets out and gets some exercise. No dog is going to be content spending all of their time locked up. Make sure you get your dog some regular exercise. Once the dog is worn out, he/she probably won’t have much of a problem getting locked up for a nap.