DIY Home Improvement: Build a 'Dog Proof' Dog Run in a Weekend

Do you have dogs?  Do you wish they had some space of their own in the back yard, so they would quit digging in yours - or quit eating your garden?  Maybe your dog is an escape artist or habitual chewer of all things yours and not theirs?  This easy DIY (do it yourself) project can help you with all of these issues, and it also provides a safer and more secure area for your pet.  If you follow the steps in this article, you will end up with a back yard that both you and your pet can enjoy.


Plan

Planning is an important phase in any project, and this one is no different.  Consider any special needs that your pet has.  If you live in an environment that has extreme temperatures (either hot or cold), you'll want to plan in some shelter for your pet to enjoy when they are outside.  Also consider any yard issues that you need to take into account as you plan for this project.  Are there things underground that you want to be sure you don't hit with a shovel, when digging your post holes?  Check with the gas, power, and water companies before digging on your property.  

Measuring is another crucial part of the planning process.  Choose a location for your pet's new area, and measure all aspects of it.  Consider the height of the enclosure that you will need to safely contain your pet.  Ensure that the area you have chosen is large enough for the animal to get some exercise, and attend to their doggy business in, without it becoming a sanitary issue.  Your measurements of the area will come in handy when you purchase your materials.


Materials

You have many options at hand in regards to materials.  If you use the following materials, you can be sure that your project will be fairly inexpensive, as well as secure and tamper-proof for your pet:

- chicken wire
- cheap metal tent stakes, or chain link fence ties
- bricks or large rocks
- wood chips, recycled tire rubber, small gravel, etc for ground cover
- fence materials (mix-it-yourself concrete, posts, fencing etc)

You'll also need some tools to complete the project: