Whether your dog lounges inside or out, he’ll appreciate a cozy spot to duck out of the sun and rain. Using a premade structure as the base is quick and inexpensive, but you can also build a custom house to suit your pup’s personality. Some ideas incorporate unique features like a staircase for climbing up and down, or an enclosed back deck for sunbathing. Other designs feature bright colors or fun text, making them an attractive addition to your backyard decor.
This classic-style house with faux shingles is simple to construct and looks lovely when positioned outdoors, though you may need to add a door flap for draughts in colder climates. It fits most breeds, but you’ll need to scale up for jumbo-sized dogs. The opening should be tall enough to allow your dog to comfortably stand inside but no higher than the height of their shoulders, as they tend to lower their heads when entering.
The corner braces on this sturdy design make the sides a bit more durable against the elements. The base is constructed of pressure-treated 2x4s with angled front and back panels cut from plywood sized to fit and secured with weather-resistant screws.
The spacious design on this doghouse makes it a good option for multiple small or medium-sized dogs, and the Plexiglas windows let in plenty of sunlight. It’s a challenging project for novice builders, however, as it requires specialized cuts and advanced building techniques.