Whether you’re a new dog owner or just need something to keep your pup occupied, you’ll love how easy it is to build a backyard dog run with this simple DIY. You’ll also learn how easy it is to provide shade from the sun, protect from pests, and have a water source for your pet. It will provide hours of fun and exercise for dogs of all breeds.
Before you begin, you’ll need to decide what type of run you want. Some owners may wish to have a separate area for their dog to play in, while others may choose to include it with their yard. The easiest way to build one is by using an existing fence as a barrier for your run.
A word of caution: Make sure the fence is secure with no holes and will stop your pet from escaping before starting this project.
Step 1
Layout the area and mark the corners of your dog run. You’ll need only a few tools to get started, so if you have some already in hand, they will come in handy later in the project. Keep your dog on a leash and take them to the area so you can see if they like it, and they won’t have any issues with the fence. Taking your dog to the site will also let you know if there are any other issues or concerns with your yard.
If the fence is in bad shape, chances are that your dog will be able to scale it quickly. Replace the wall or make repairs as needed before continuing. You’ll need some good tools for this next step, so keep them handy before starting and consider using a ladder to access the top of the fence if necessary.
Step 2
You’ll need to dig holes for your posts slightly larger than the diameter of the post you’ll use. The ground where you’ll be digging should be level, and your holes will not be far from where you want your railings to be. Keep in mind that fencing can serve more than one purpose if it fits within the fence permanently or temporarily. Rails are great for keeping pets contained and giving children an area where they feel safe when interacting with dogs.
Step 3
Next, you’ll need to dig about a foot into the ground and place your posts. You’ll have to secure them with anchors, which you can purchase at your local hardware or home improvement store or using rocks or concrete blocks.
If you use concrete blocks, make sure they are big enough for the width of the fence, so they don’t pop out. The ones at a hardware store are usually larger than those at a home improvement store, so you must check which one is correct before placing them in position.
Check that everything is straight before securing it with concrete anchors and leveling after setting them in place.
Step 4
You can now set up the railing when you have replaced or repaired the fence. You can purchase them or use wood already in your yard. The part sticking out at the top of the fence needs to be cut to fit and will give your dog a nice overhang to play on. You’ll need to anchor this piece securely as you did with the posts so it doesn’t move around when they walk on or run against it, which could lead to an injury.
If you’re using wood instead of fencing, install it after placing your new posts. You’ll need to keep your dog on a leash when you’re doing this, so they don’t attempt to climb through the fence.
Remove the rails when you’re done and store them in a safe place until they are needed again.
If you’d like, you can cut them to fit into several lengths, so they can be added easily when needed without having to re-dig the holes each time. This is a good idea if your dog spends a lot of time outdoors in their run.
This will improve their quality of life by giving them more playtime and exercise and providing shade from the sun.
Depending on your dog’s needs, you can keep them for a few weeks or even a few months.
Once you’ve built and included artificial grass for a dog run, you’ll want to ensure it’s safe from predators such as coyotes, raccoons, and other wild animals that could harm your pet. To do this, place some rocks in the area to provide a natural barrier that dogs can use as a lookout point. You can also add some of these strategically placed rocks so any threats do not easily see your dog’s position.
To make sure they have plenty of shade while they are outside playing in their backyard, you may want to consider adding some plants to the area. You can add plants to the area or just place some close to the fence. You can also try different grasses, live or cut wood, and stone combinations.
Tips On Improving Your Dog Yard
1) To keep your yard from being destroyed by pests that could hurt your dog, you can also consider installing a dog run with some type of material that kills these pests and protects the area. These materials include the mesh, steel mesh, or plastic netting, depending on your needs. They’re even designed to stop coyotes and dogs from digging through them if it’s not properly installed in time.
You can also include a solar greenhouse for them in their garden when you have an area cleared for a dog run. These are made from a glass material similar to the plastic sheeting you might use.
2) To add excitement to their life, try adding a doggy door for them to enter and exit the backyard when they please. These come in different shapes and sizes, so you must measure the opening you’d like to install before purchasing one. Make sure it has a flap or door of some type on the inside of your house since this is where the dog will need to go into your home when they want to access it.
3) If it’s cold outside and you don’t want your dog to get too cold, consider adding an area specifically for them inside your house that is heated and comfortable. They are great areas to use if you have a den or basement. They should also have their bed to sleep in, along with toys and treats to keep them entertained when they’re in the room.
4) If you’re worried that your dog is going through the fence, you can place a camera at the fence line to see if this is true. This can help to keep wildlife from getting into your yard as well as help you to prevent any injuries when your dog is outside playing.
When it’s time for your dog to go outside, consider placing a small basket with several of their favorite toys and treats inside, so they always have something interesting waiting for them while playing in the backyard.
If you’re interested in having a doggy house for them to relax in, you can build one out of wood. All you need to do is add a roof and floor to protect them from the elements if needed.
Importance Of Having A Dog Run
1) These areas can help keep your pet safe while playing outside.
Depending on your dog’s size, if they can dig out of the yard or tunnel under a fence, you may want to consider placing playpen fencing around the area. You’ll need to make sure that it has a secure latch at the top when you’re building it so it can’t be moved by them once in place.
2) The run area also benefits older dogs with joint problems. They won’t have to spend as much time moving around when they have a designated area where they can play, sleep and exercise.
3) If your dog has access to a doggy door, the run area can help to give them a place where they can enter and exit the house when they want. This will save you from having to tend to their needs often when you’re busy.
You won’t have to let them in and out through the bay window or front door often if it’s within their reach.
This will also help with potty training if they have problems limiting their outside time. They’ll be forced to stay in one area, so they don’t have access to other places that can cause accidents inside your home.
In conclusion, it’s important to have a dog run so your dog can have the opportunity to enjoy its own space in the yard. This will allow them to spend more time with you, making them feel more content and happy when playing in their area. If you don’t already have one, you may want to consider building one for your pet so they can get the best enjoyment out of their current space.
