Before you purchase dog house plans there are several things to consider. It is very important to select the proper size Doghouse for the safety and comfort of your pet. The first step is to measure your dog to determine which category he or she may fit into. If your dog is just a puppy then you need to refer to the list of breeds below to estimate the size your dog will be at approximately one year old.
The typical sizes of doghouses are small, medium, large, and extra large. Be sure to choose a plan that is large enough so your dog can easily turn around inside. The interior width and length of the dog house should be equal to or greater than the overall length of your dog excluding his tail. Choose a width that is an inch or more, greater than the length of your dog. Select a length that is approximately 30 percent greater than the length of your dog.
The interior height of the doghouse should be 25 percent greater than the overall height of your dog. As an example; if your dog is 20 inches tall from the top of his head to his paws the interior height should be 25 inches tall.
Be sure the door is large enough that your dog can enter the doghouse without crouching. A good rule of thumb is to make the door opening a minimum of 1 inch taller than the height of your dog as measured at his shoulders. Your dog will lower his head as he enters the dog house.
Select a small, medium, large, or extra large doghouse plan to suit your breed based on the list below.
Small Dog House Plans for Small Breeds:
Chihuahua, Dachshund, Pomeranian, Toy Poodles, Toy Terriers, or Yorkshire Terrier.
Medium Dog House Plans for Medium Breeds:
Beagle, Boston Terrier, Jack Russell Terrier, Shih Tzu, Scottish Terrier, or Welsh Terrier.
Large Dog House Plans for Large Breeds:
Basset Hound, Chow, Cocker Spaniel, Springer Spaniel, Husky, Labrador Retriever, or Shar Pei.
Large Dog House Plans for Large Breeds:
Akita, Dalmatian, Doberman, English Setter, English Sheepdog, German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Rottweiler, or Weimaraner.
Dog House Plans, Tips for the Handyman:
o Choose a design with an overhang to keep the inside of the doghouse dry in rainy weather.
o In colder climates, select a plan with 2x4 framing to allow for insulation.
o Slope the floor of the dog house slightly towards the door. This will ensure any rain water will run out of the doghouse.
o Build a small doghouse for a small dog. The interior will be kept warmer in the winter by the dogs' natural body heat. You can also use a bed of straw for comfort.
Bob Hightower is an author for the Handyman Plan Store a resource for the DIY Handyman.
Bob recommends Doghouse plans for the DIY Handyman at:
No comments:
Post a Comment