How to Build a Temporary Dog Kennel for a Mother & Her Puppies

A temporary kennel gives mom a chance to get outside and lets the puppies explore.
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Whether you are trying to keep a mother and her pups separate from a yard full of others, or you are just looking for a way to keep a litter secure, a temporary kennel is your solution. A variety of types of materials exist for such kennels, and you can buy prefabricated ones at stores. An old standard, chain-link fencing, is a standard for a reason. With chain-link panels and a few friends to help, you can set up a temporary kennel in just a few minutes.

Step 1

Determine where you will place the kennel and how big to make it. Decide which side you want to have the gate section. The length of the chain-link panels you use depends on the size of your dog and how much space you have available to place the kennel. Raise two panels and place them end-to-end to form a corner. Have your assistants hold them in place.

Step 2

Attach the panels using two saddle clamps and carriage bolts. The size clamps and bolts you need depend on the diameter of the chain-link panel supports. Saddle clamps look similar to a wavy letter “M” and come together to form two circles. Each circle goes around the support pole of the chain-link panel. Put the clamps in place and secure with a carriage bolt and wrench. Repeat with the other panels, including the gate panel.

Step 3

Place a doghouse inside the kennel to provide mom and her pups a cozy area to get away from the elements. If a doghouse is not available, place the kennel in an area where there is shade from an overhang or tree.

Warnings

  • Do not leave mom and her new pups outside in cold or wet weather or for extended periods. Young puppies are not able to regulate their body temperatures well, and long-term exposure to elements can pose a health risk.

Tips

  • For small dogs, a children’s portable play yard offers a cheaper and easier alternative.

  • Provide fresh water for mom and the pups at all times.

Items You Will Need

  • Three chain-link fencing panels
  • One chain-link panel with a built-in gate
  • Eight saddle clamps
  • Eight carriage bolts
  • Wrench
  • Doghouse (optional)