Dog Kennel Buying Guide: What to Know Before You Order 🐕

If you’re considering adding a dog kennel to your property, you probably already know that not all kennels are created equal. Thus the dog kennel buying guide. Whether you’re housing one working dog or managing multiple pups, choosing the right design makes a huge difference in comfort, cleanliness, and peace of mind. In this dog kennel buying guide, we’ll walk you through what to look for before placing your order—so you can avoid regrets later.

At Wolfvalley Buildings, we specialize in outdoor kennel setups that balance function, safety, and appearance. Here’s how to get it right from the start.

Start with the Purpose of Your Kennel

Before thinking about size or materials, clarify how you’ll use the kennel. Are you building a permanent outdoor space for a farm dog? Do you need temporary containment while you’re away from the house? Or are you raising puppies or boarding multiple animals?

Each purpose demands different features. A single working dog might just need a shaded area and secure run, while a breeder or pet care business needs multiple divided enclosures, drainage, and climate control. The clearer you are on your goals, the easier it is to design a kennel that works long-term.

Get the Size Right (Bigger Is Usually Better)

Size is one of the most common mistakes buyers make. Many underestimate how much space a dog needs to move, stretch, and rest without feeling confined. A kennel should allow your dog to stand, turn around, lie down, and move freely. When in doubt, size up.

If you’re housing multiple dogs, always plan for separate runs or divider panels. Dogs thrive on space and structure—and they’ll be much calmer if they’re not overcrowded. Our team often recommends adding a covered area for lounging and an open section for active time, especially for working breeds like German Shepherds, Heelers, or Labs.

Prioritize Ventilation and Shade 🌬️

Dogs overheat quickly in warm weather, especially when confined outdoors. A good kennel includes built-in airflow, not just open wire. Choose roof designs that allow hot air to escape and protect against direct sun. Position the kennel to catch natural shade or consider a covered section with airflow panels.

In winter, draft-free insulation matters just as much. At Wolfvalley, we offer kennel upgrades like enclosed boxes with weather protection, allowing dogs to stay safe and warm year-round.

Easy Cleaning Makes a Big Difference

Nobody wants to clean a kennel that was poorly designed. Look for features that make cleanup fast and sanitary. A raised floor helps keep your dog dry, especially in wet climates. Removable panels and built-in drain systems also prevent odor and bacterial buildup.

If you’re placing your kennel on a pad, we suggest gravel with proper grading or concrete with a slope to aid drainage. At Wolfvalley, we can build kennels with pressure-treated floors that resist rot and allow airflow underneath, cutting down on moisture and mess.

Secure Fencing and Latches Keep Everyone Safe 🔒

Security matters—both to keep your dog in and to keep predators out. A well-built kennel uses strong metal mesh or chain link with chew-proof frames. Avoid plastic or flimsy wire panels that dogs can bend or bite through.

Don’t overlook the latches. Choose secure, tamper-resistant locks that small children or clever dogs can’t open. If you’re managing multiple dogs, plan for individual gates or interior barriers to prevent fights or stress between animals.

Add Features That Fit Your Lifestyle

Think about your day-to-day use. Do you want a feeding station built into the wall? Would a removable roof help during cleaning? Do you need lighting, electrical outlets, or even a fan? The more your kennel matches your daily routine, the more you’ll enjoy using it.

Wolfvalley Buildings offers custom options including doggy doors, treated porch-style decks, insulated boxes, and side-run configurations. These small touches make a big difference in how easily you can care for your dog.

Consider Your Climate and Region 🌡️

A kennel in Texas needs different features than one in Colorado. Hot, dry climates require good airflow and sun protection. Cold, snowy areas need enclosed sleeping spaces, windbreaks, and floors raised off the frozen ground.

We help our customers across the South customize their kennels to match regional conditions. From radiant barrier roofs to insulated panels and raised decking, we’ll guide you to the right features for your zip code.

Look at Longevity, Not Just Price

It’s tempting to go cheap when you’re shopping for a dog kennel, but poorly built options often fail within a year. Rotten floors, warped panels, and flimsy gates lead to more frustration and replacement costs than you might expect.

Instead, choose treated lumber, weather-rated metal, and durable roofing that holds up over time. Our Wolfvalley kennels are built for daily use, extreme weather, and energetic dogs—so you don’t have to keep replacing parts or upgrading every season.

Ready to Order the Right Kennel?

Your dog deserves more than a wire pen on the edge of the yard. With the right structure, your kennel becomes a safe, clean, comfortable home base—whether you use it daily or occasionally.

Wolfvalley Buildings can help you design and deliver a custom dog kennel that’s tailored to your needs, your land, and your pup’s lifestyle. From single-run shelters to multi-kennel professional setups, we’ve got you covered.

Visit WolfvalleyBuildings.com/dog-kennels to get started—or give us a call today and we’ll walk you through your options.

Internal Links:

Animal Shelter Placement Tips | Where to Build in 2025

Custom Dog Kennels for 2025 | Backyard Shelter Ideas

Predator-Proof Animal Shelter | 2025 Safety Upgrades