A dog is regarded man’s best friend hence, the need to build for it a clean, dry and proper house. Other than sheltering a dog from wind and rain, the house should be capable of offering adequate insulation and warmth as well as be easy to clean. To accomplish all these, there are certain steps that should be followed when building the dog house:
- Sizing the Parts – The doghouse parts are sized by ensuring the width and length equals the length of the dog plus 12” and 18” respectively. Similarly, the dog’s height equals its height in addition to 9” at the front while sloping backwards to its height should be added. Also one can increase about 3”at the back.
- Building the Base – After determining the doghouse size, the parts of the base length should be cut from pressure-treated boards of 2×4’s. The ends should then be butted together while the joints are secured using weather-resistant screws. The floor panel is cut from 3/4” plywood then secured on the base using weather-resistant screws.
- Angling the Sides – To maintain a dry pooch, the roof should sit on inclined sides by cutting identical angles and temporarily attaching together the pieces for the sides using double-sided tape. A straightedge is then clamped on all sides at the preferred angle while making the cut using a circular saber saw. All sides are then secured onto the base using weather-resistant screws.
- Adding the Corner Braces – Installing corner braces guarantees the structure is weather-tight and sturdy while installing corner braces prevent drafts and ensures the house does not rack. Two screwed plywood strips make up each brace and they are attached to the front panels, sides and back
- Installing the Partitioning Wall – This wall provides privacy and keeps out harsh weather. The partition is secured to the base and a plywood panel can be installed at an angle matching the sides.
- Insulating the Walls – This keep the pet cool during summer and warm in winter. Rigid foam is installed in the cavities of the wall using 1” or 1/2” glue foam layers. After being cut to fit, these are covered with ¼ inch plywood to prevent the pet from nibbling on.
- Cutting the Opening of the Door – prior to attaching the front, measure the height of the pup’s back and its width and use this plus an addition of a few inches to get the door’s height and its width with an addition of 3 inches respectively. After cutting the central opening with a saber saw, the front can be secured to each corner brace.
- Adding the Roof – Cutting a slightly oversize roof aids in rainfall runoff and should be covered using tar paper while an edge of metal drip should be installed round the perimeter. Asphalt shingles are installed to ensure the roof is waterproof.
By following these tips to build a dog house, the pet is bound to have a comfortable and safe place to dwell in.