If your dog is outdoors a lot, you want to ensure that they have a little safe den where they can retreat to take shelter when it gets too hot or when it starts to rain. You can also use the kennel with a playpen attached to contain them when you are out and don’t want them to get into trouble.
Some kennels are used indoors as well. Whether you need one for indoor or outdoor use, you want to make sure you get the best one where your pooch is most safe and comfortable. Other important features include easy cleaning removable trays or easy access roof hatches but more on these later.
Currently, there are numerous dog kennels and dog houses you can choose from. While it’s good to have a variety of choices, it can be a bit overwhelming trying to choose the best. This is why we have put together a list of the 8 best dog kennels to make the choice easier for you.
Our best pick is the Pets Imperial Wooden Sussex Dog Kennel. It has lots of positive reviews and has some great features such as the removable floor. It’s also available in a small and medium-size for people with smaller dog breeds. It also has protective plastic caps for the feet to protect the wood underneath from rot, the feltered roof is waterproof, and it’s also easy to clean and maintain.
BEST PICK
Our Runner-up
Top 8 Best Dog Kennel Reviews
1. Pets Imperial Extra Large Wooden Sussex Dog Kennel
BEST WOODEN KENNEL
Buy on Amazon.co.uk
Wooden dog kennels are an old classic, and what crosses most people’s minds when a dog kennel is mentioned. If you are looking for a wooden dog kennel, then this is one you can choose for your canine friend and you won’t be disapointed.
When setting up, the extra-large version, the one we reviewed measures 70 x 86 x 89cm (inside dimensions) so is suitable for both small and medium-sized dogs. It’s manufactured from quality tongue and grove timber with two aluminium strut that opens up to make the kennel accessible to you from the top for easy cleaning.
To make cleaning and controlling pests such as fleas and ticks easier for you, this kennel also features a removable wooden floor which means it can be removed easily and cleaned down properly. This makes maintenance a lot easier. The kennel’s raised floor also helps keep the kennel cool by allowing free air circulation under the kennel as well as helping to prevent rot.
The anti-chew aluminium covering the entrance to the kennel discourages your dog from chewing at the wood which is a feature we don’t see on many kennels. Yet, dogs choosing the opening is a common problem with wooden kennels so its good they have tried to overcome this issue. To make sure the legs hoisting the kennel off the ground last longer, they are covered with plastic caps. This helps protect the feet from rot and the underneath from rotting from rising damp.
For stability purposes, the kennel’s legs are adjustable, which allows you to set the kennel up even on unstable grounds.
Finally, this model also incorporates a draught shield fitted at the entrance of Kennel, this obviously stops cold winds from blowing in as well as rain, snow and whatever else the UK weather throws at it.
Pros
- Ideal for large to medium-sized dogs.
- Made from quality tongue and grove timber.
- Adjustable legs for stability even on unleveled ground.
- Anti-chew aluminium strip discourages chewing around the opening.
- Plastic caps to protect the feet from rot.
- Draft strips to help prevent rain and wind from blowing inside the kennel.
- Raised bottom to allow free air circulation underneath the kennel.
- Removable floor for easy cleaning and maintenance.
- Roof opens up to allow access to inside the kennel.
Cons
- A fairly expensive kennel.
Why do we recommend it?
This kennel is ideal for you if you are looking for the perfect wooden outdoor dog kennel for your dog and are looking for a wooden model made to a high standard with features that make cleaning much easier, this model simply ticks all those boxes.
The removable floor makes cleaning very easy, and we also like that the roof opens up fully which gives easy access to the inside of the kennel. This again makes it much easier to clean and treat for pests such as fleas and ticks.
Wood can be delicate, and we love that the manufacturers were thoughtful enough to cover the feet with plastic caps to protect them from rotting plus the aluminium strip around the opening is another great feature, if your dogs the type to start chewing, this kennel will be ideal. Overal you will struggle to find a better kennel, the go beyond what you might expect for a dog kennel which is why we named this model out best pick.
Read next: Best raised dog beds
Read next: Best automatic dog ball thrower
2. CROCI Recycled Kennel Villa
Buy on Amazon.co.uk
One of the best things about plastic kennels is that they are very durable and not susceptible to rot like wooden alternatives. This dog house is no an exemption, it is made of 100% recycled plastic, which is good for the environment but it’s also UV treated to protect it from the sun which is where most cheaper plastic kennels fail, they will fade and become brittle but not this model.
When set up, it measures 99 x 70 x 75cm, suitable for either small dogs but its also a favourite for people who have cats too. It’s easy to set up and dismantle should you want to put it away and the roof is removable for cleaning but you do have to remove 4 small screws that hold the roof on so bare this in mind, would be nice to see some sort of clip-on roof ideally but this is not the case.
Plus points are, there are side vents that ensure maximum air circulation, this helps keep the kennel aired while also helping prevent condensation inside the kennel. Your pet can just relax in the kennel, away from the hot sun on those rare UK sunny days when we do eventually see a summer, or away from the rain when it’s raining which in the UK feels like almost daily. Jokes aside, the kennel also has small gutters that drain the rainwater away from the kennel.
Finally, the floors of this pet house inside is grooved, and this allows any liquids to drain away, keeping the kennel dry and some what cleaner.
Pros
- Easy to set up
- Grooved interior to drain away any fluids keeping the kennel dry.
- Side ventilation sallow for maximum ventilation
- Very durable
- Made of 100% recycled plastic, this is good for the environment.
Cons
- Not suitable for large dogs
Why do we recommend it?
If you are looking for a quality plastic dog house for a little dog, this is one of the best dog kennels you will find on the market. It has side vents that allow proper air circulation to make sure that your pet is comfortable when inside there. It’s easy to set up and clean too although you will need to remove those four screws to remove the roof, not a deal breaker but certainly not the best setup.
We also love that it’s made of recycled plastic. This is sustainable and good for the environment which we think everyone should be taken seriously with the current situation in regards to waste plastic and environmental damage. It’s just nice to see that this company does take this seriously and it’s not all about profit. A few tweaks to the design and this kennel would be perfect but its certainly good enough and one of the best models to consider.
Read next: Best dog crates and cages
3. Easipet Plastic Dog Kennel XL Pet House
Buy on Amazon.co.uk
If you are looking for the best plastic dog house for a larger dog, this is one of the best ones you will find that serves the purpose best and it also has some great features. It measures 111 x 84 x 80cm when set up and although it’s described as a XL dog kennel I would think its more suitable for some like a cocker spaniel or English bull terrier, anything bigger and it might be a little tight for space so just bear this mind when considering this model.
However, it’s made of high-quality plastic material, which makes it very durable. Your furry companion will be enjoying this house for a long time and it also has some great features.
To ensure that your pet is comfortable in the kennel, it has a vent panel at the back of the kennel, which you can adjust to increase or reduce air circulation. again this helps improve air circulation and prevent damp and condensation.
It’s also easy to clean and maintain, which helps with pest control. There is a side panel that folds down, this is to give your dog more space, perhaps on a nice day but it also gives better access for cleaning. You can remove the root quite easily but you do have to remove 4 screws like on the previous plastic house we looked at.
The floor of the dog house is also raised from the ground allowing free air circulation underneath, which keeps the kennel cool on a hot day. If you need additional space, you can lower the side panels.
Pros
- Made of high-quality plastic material.
- Suitable for medium and larger dogs.
- Vent panel at the back for proper air circulation to help prevent condensation and keep the kennel aired
- Fold-down side panel to give your dog more room in warm days or nights.
- Easy to clean with fold-down side panel and removable roof.
Cons
- You need to remove 4 screws to remove the roof, not a big issue but would be nice if it just clipped off.
Why do we recommend it?
It’s sometimes hard to get a suitable plastic kennel for a larger dog but this model would be suitable for most fairly large dogs.
If you are looking for one, this is a great choice to consider as it has some nice feature, more notable the side panel that folds down to give your dog more space.
We love that it’s made of durable material and the raised floor as well, raised floors are a big plus on any type of kennel. The vents at the back of this kennel allow proper ventilation so that your pet always has an airy weatherproof environment.
Overall if your looking for a plastic dog kennel this model us well worth considering.
Read next: Best playpens for dogs and puppies
4. AmazonBasics Elevated Portable Pet House
Buy on Amazon.co.uk
If you are looking for a portable dog house that you can use either indoors or outdoors then this one makes a great candidate and Amazon are known for creating some of their own quality products and they hit it out of the park with this model.
It’s mainly made of a strong oxford fabric supported by a metal and plastic frame. Due to its portable nature, this kennel makes for a great dog house when you go out outdoors with your dog, like camping or if you take your dog on holidays and need a kennel you can also use indoors, for example in a log cabbin.
It’s easy to clean, which makes it pretty easy to maintain. It’s easy to set up too and when set up, the floor of the dog house is off the ground, like we said previously this is an important design aspect for kennels. This allows free air circulation under the kennel, which keeps it cool. The vent panel at the roof of the dog house also keeps it well ventilated.
When fully set up, this dog house measures 110 x 89.9 x 74.9cm, room enough for small and medium-sized dogs. Make sure you take your dog’s measurements to ensure this is the right fit for them.
With the large door in the front of the kennel, your dog can freely come in or go out of this little den as they please.
Pros
- Easy to clean, simply use a damp cloth and wipe down.
- Mesh fabric at the top of the kennel for maximum ventilation with fold-down flaps to keep the rain out.
- Made of durable oxford fabric and a metal frame.
- Ideal for outdoors like camping with your dog.
- Can be used indoors or outdoors.
- Raised floor allows free circulation of air underneath, keeping the dog house cool.
Cons
- A little flimsy but does the job, just the nature if it being portable.
Why do we recommend it?
If you are looking for a very portable dog house, this makes a good choice and would be the only model we would personally consider.
It’s easy to set up and disassemble as well, important if your on the move for example on a mini road trip. The vents at the roof of this house allow maximum air circulation but we like that you can fold the flaps over the mesh if it rains.
If your dog is a small breed, then this will work as intended. It’s not very sturdy though, and the idea of a fabric kennel is not as charming to most people but at the end of the day, it does what its designed to do, be a portable kennel. Overall, it’s a good little dog house.
5. Chalet-Jardin Garden 12-921177 Kennel Dog
Buy on Amazon.co.uk
This is another perfect little castle for your little furry friend that you can either set indoors or outdoors. When set up, the kennel measures 95 x 99 x 99cm, which is suitable for both medium and smaller dogs.
The floor of the dog house is raised, to provide some insulation so good start. For proper air circulation inside the dog house, there is some air vent panel just above the door so some more ticks for this.
It’s easy to clean and maintain. It’s easy to assemble, and you will need no tools to put this dog house together.
The manufacturers are confident that you will love this kennel, their 5-year warranty is an indication that they believe in their product.
You can order it in either beige or brown color, whichever one you find appealing.
Pros
- Ideal for medium and larger dogs.
- No tools required for the setup, simple click together process.
- 5-year warranty for full peace of mind.
- Made of quality resin plastic material.
- The floor is off the ground for better ventalation and help keep the kennel cool.
- Has vents for maximum air circulation.
Cons
- Plastic has been known to shatter if the kennel is blown over in strong winds as the kennel has been blown off the base, with this in mind we recommend placing in more sheltered position.
Why do we recommend it?
This kennel is a good one for either a indoor or outdoor setup. It’s suitable for both medium and small dogs too.
We love that the manufacturers offer a 5-year warranty on this kennel, we don’t know any other kennel that provides a generous warranty. You have to love their confidence in their product. Overall, it’s a perfect little home for your canine friend, safe from harsh weather conditions but we recommend placing it in a more sheltered position as during out research we read some reviews who described the kennel being blown off the base. This could, however, we incorrectly put together but it’s hard to tell.
6. HABAU 1272 Beagle Dog House
Buy on Amazon.co.uk
If you are looking for a wooden classic, this is another wooden kennel you can choose for your furry friend. It’s obviously made of wood with a tongue and grove design with a felted roof and measures 84.5 x 62.5 x 57 centimetres when set-up suitable for small and medium-sized dogs and cats as well.
We like that the roof to this kennel can be opened wide, which makes cleaning it a lot easier, and can also be opened to air the kennel if it’s a bit stuffy. This makes it easier to maintain.
The floor is lifted off the ground allowing any fluids to drain off the kennel, keeping it dry all the time but the floor can not be removed like that of our best pick.
It’s pretty easy to put together. Your dog’s new hangout spot will be ready in no time.
Pros
- Easy to put together.
- Raised floor to help prevent rot.
- The roof opens to make it easy to clean.
- Rounded door for your pet’s protection.
- Sturdy design at an affordable price.
Cons
- Has no vent panel.
Why do we recommend it?
This is a sturdy dog house that is perfect for those on a budget looking for a simple design and are not too worried about all the extra feature some models come with.
It’s easy to put together, and we love that the roof can be opened for a quick clean up.
7. Trixie 39553 Natura Flat-Roof Dog Kennel
Buy on Amazon.co.uk
This is a wooden dog kennel measuring 116 x 82 x 79cm when setup, enough space for your fur baby to hand out outdoors away from the harsh weather.
It’s a good alternative to our best pick and has some of the same great features such as hinged roof and removable floor as well as those adjustable legs.
As we always recommend, it has a raised floor that allows the free circulation of air underneath the kennel, keeping it fresh and dry. We love that the roof can be opened nice and wide for quick cleaning. The floor is removable too like that of our best pick, and you can remove it when you need to clean the kennel.
The kennels feet are adjustable as mentioned, this allows you to set it up even on uneven ground, without the risk of toppling over with your pet inside.
It is super easy to set up, and your dog’s new home will be ready in no time.
Pros
- Ideal for medium and larger sized dogs.
- Raised floor for better air circulation to help keep the kennel cool and prevent rot.
- It has a hinged door that opens up for easy cleaning.
- Easy to set up.
- Adjustable feet for stability on uneven ground.
- Removable floor for easier cleaning.
Cons
- No built in vents.
Why do we recommend it?
If you are looking for a dog kennel that’s easy to maintain, this is a great choice. The hinged roof and the removable floor make cleaning this kennel a breeze.
We also like that the feet are adjustable, great if you want to place it on slightly uneven ground and the feet also have plastic caps to prevent them from rotting away.
Overall it’s a great alternative to our best pick with some of the same great features all though it does lack a screen over the door and extra air vents but at the time of this review, it was also slightly more affordable.
8. Deuba Wooden Dog Kennel
Buy on Amazon.co.uk
No products found.If you want a kennel with a view, this is the one to get for your dog. With the balcony part of this dog house, your dog can just chill and explore the view of your garden around them.
It’s super easy to put together and measures 66 x 53 x 64cm when set up so probably more suitable for small and medium-sized dogs as well as cats. Its also a great choice if you want a indoor kennel.
The ladder to the balcony part of the kennel makes the balcony easily accessible for your doggie. The balcony can support weights of up to 100kg so its extremely strong.
Pros
- Has a sun terrace where your pet can just sunbathe.
- Easy to put together.
- Ideal for indoors and outdoors.
- The balcony can support up to 100kg
Cons
- The roof is not fully waterproof
Why do we recommend it?
The balcony addition to this kennel makes it so unique and fun for your pet and it also would look too much out of place indoors.
It has a ladder that makes the balcony accessible, and we like that the door is rounded to ensure the safety of your dog. It’s designed for both indoors and outdoors but we would recommend maybe putting some felt on the roof or waterproof lining if using outdoors to make sure its 100% waterproof as it has a flat root.
If you are shopping for a dog house for a small or a medium dog, this is a good choice. It’s also suitable for cats and other small pets.
No products found.
Buying guide: Considerations for the best dog houses
There are many kennel brands on the market that you can buy for your dog. While variety is a good thing, sometimes it can be a bit hard sorting through all these kennels trying to get the best one for your dog. If you want to nail it on the first time you buy one, here are things you should look for.
Size
Size is the most crucial factor to consider when you are shopping for a dog kennel. Make sure you take accurate measurements of your dog and then buy them an appropriate size kennel.
To take accurate dog measurements, measure their height when they are standing from their foot to the top of their head and leave a few inches allowance. For the length, measure the distance between the tip of their nose and the tip of their tail leaving a few inches allowance too.
Armed with these measurements, you should be able to get an appropriate kennel size for them.
Material and construction
Think of the material you want to buy for your dog. Kennels are made of different materials, and this might determine how sturdy a kennel is going to be and how long they last. Plastic kennels tend to be very durable as plastic does not easily disintegrate although some cheaper models may not have much UV protection and can fade and crack in the sun. cheaper models usually do this which is why we only recommend a few plastic models which are made from quality UV resistant plastic.
Wooden kennels are very sturdy and stable. One of the biggest drawbacks of wood, however, is the fact that wood is very prone to rot. If you are looking for a wooden kennel, at least ensure that the wood has been treated with animal-friendly wood preservative.
Also, a raised floor of a wooden kennel is a must and reduces contact with the ground, and this helps protect the wood from rot. Some manufacturers will also be mindful enough to cap the feet with some protective plastic to ensure longevity which is simple but very effective.
Comfort
Whatever dog house you get, ensure that your pet is comfortable in there. Make sure it’s well-ventilated so that it does not get too stuffy in there for your pet.
Most kennels won’t come with a dog bed but if you want to make it cozy and warm, think of buying a dog mat or a blanket for the kennel.
Safety
Make sure that your pet will be safe in the kennel. Kennels with adjustable feet allow you to set the kennel up even on uneven ground. If you are buying one for outdoor use, consider getting one with such a feature.
Maintenance
Think of how hard or easy it is to clean the kennel. Kennels with roofs that open up make cleaning a lot easier for you. When you just want to air the kennel out, this feature will also come in handy. We also recommend buying wooden kennels with removable floors so they can be cleaned more easily.
In conclusion,
While most responsible dog owners will argue that your dog should always be in the house with you, sometimes dogs want to just hang out alone in the garden, away from the noise and everything going on in the house.
In this case, you want to make sure they have a safe little place to hang out, away from the harsh weather. In this list, there are some pretty awesome choices to pick from.
Our top pick is the Pets Imperial Extra-large Wooden Sussex Dog Kennel is a great place to start. It’s easy to clean, easy to set up, available in different sizes, and overall has amazing reviews on Amazon. We also love that it has a removable floor and that the feet have protective plastic caps.
If you want an alternative to wood, our runner-up plastic kennel, the CROCI Recycled Kennel Villa, is perfect. It has a grooved floor to drain away any unwanted fluids, is easy to set up and maintain too. We also love that it is well ventilated and overall, very durable for a plastic dog house.
