How to build a DIY pet run

Dog runs can be a great solution for many owners and their pets. Some owners prefer not to have their dogs sleeping in the house, and many dogs also prefer to be outdoors and have their own defined territory. Although this can be partly accomplished by a kennel in the yard, the dog is still having to share the yard or garden with its human family, and some animals may cause damage and possible annoyance to the neighbours. A spacious and safe dog run is the obvious solution for owners and pets (and neighbours!) alike. The idea of obtaining a dog run may seem pricy, however, it's surprisingly easy to build these yourself as long as you have the right materials. Follow these tips and your beloved dog will have a new home in no time.

Look at the location. First and foremost you need to think about size and shape, which will be determined by two things; the size of your yard and the size of your dog. In terms of animal size, the recommended minimum in terms of the space needed to meet your pet's needs is 3' by 10'. Larger dogs will prefer significantly more. 

Now you need your building materials. You may decide to use concrete for the floor, but this isn't always necessary, particularly if you have a paved yard. Fencing is of course key, and by far the easiest and often most affordable alternative is to use welded mesh panels. As well as making your dog run simple to build they provide ventilation and the material is both safe and long lasting. As they tend to be easy for fitting and come in a range of sizes, perfect for a modular design, you can get as creative as you wish with the size and shape of your run.

Decide if you need a roof. If your pet is going to be spending a lot of time in the run, they will need some shelter from the elements. If your design already incorporates a covered area or is simply built around an existing roofed kennel then this may not be necessary.

Pet runs are increasing in popularity and are not just limited to dogs. Cat runs are also increasingly being used by owners who are worried about their cat running off or wandering too far afield. Simply follow the guidelines as for a small dog run.

To find out more about the materials required for building a DIY pet run, please take a look at the Weld Mesh website.