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Click on image to view photos of the construction of the kennel |
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Click on image to view photos of the construction of the kennel |
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After having six Gordons as house dogs for many years....we knew they and we would be happier if we had the flexibility of kennel quarters for them. We had three intact bitches and two intact males. This led to occasional squabbles between the males, logistical nightmares when any of the bitches were in heat, and generally too many dogs competing for space, food and attention at one time. |
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In planning our relocation to New Mexico, we
knew that we wanted a separate structure near the house where we could
house our dogs in comfort. We needed to be able to separate the intact
boys from the girls when they were in season. We also knew that we would
never maintain these kids as "kennel kids" on a permanent basis, but would
rotate each of them as house dogs so that there would always be at least
two dogs in the house (and in our bed) at any given time.
We wanted the structure to provide enough room for each of the dogs when they needed "private" quarters, but we also wanted them to be able to mingle together, to romp and play in a common area, when that was appropriate. We also wanted the kennel to provide space and utilities for bathing, grooming, and feeding. It needed to be climate controlled and it needed to have indoor/outdoor access for the dogs. |
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What we ended up with is a 700 square
foot building with 8 "stalls" (4 on each side) leading to outdoor runs
via guillotine doors. The outdoor runs are almost always kept open and
lead to an enclosed common exercise area on each side. If it is necessary
to separate a dog from the others, the outside run is closed. Having the
runs split 4 to each side of the building, we can separate the intact males
from each other when both are in the kennel....yet still allow them plenty
of freedom to run and play.
In practice, the guillotine doors are opened each morning and kept open all day until bedtime when they are closed in for the night. Throughout the cooling season (April through October), an evaporative cooler keeps the temperature between 65 and 78 even with the doors open all day. During the few really cold winter nights, a small space heater is used at night to keep the temperature above 50. Four skylights and three windows provide plenty of light during the day and allow the warming New Mexico sun to keep the kennel comfortable all winter. The windows are in the front half of the kennel building, where the grooming and bathing done. Also in the front section of the kennel are food preparation and storage areas, a sink and hot water heater. The kennel building and the attached runs and fenced-in exercise areas sit within a five acre fenced-in section of our property which encompasses our house. The dogs that are in the house can be let out to run at will without concern. |
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Yes indeed! The dogs have adapted surprisingly well. They quickly understood the concept of taking turns being house dogs and seem to sense when it is their turn. They get to spend about two days in the house then go back to the kennel which they do quite willingly....even eagerly....the change in their environment and lifestyle is a positive experience for each of them. They seem happier, more relaxed, and we have found it so much easier to control their diet.....the skinny ones have put some weight on now that nobody steals their food.....the chubby ones have taken weight off because we can now control their portions. If anyone is off their feed, it is immediately apparent as they are separated for feeding. Special diet needs, supplements, etc. can be easily controlled. |
Supplier of chainlink kennel components:
Mason Kennels
260 Depot Street
Leesburg, OH 45135
tel: 800-543-5567
free catalog, standard and custom kennels and
dog runs.
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