As I will need to leave Sparky for two mornings a week from September, I am having an outdoor run area built for him, and have been looking for a decent kennel - not as a home, he lives in with us :), but for him to rest during the two mornings I'm out.

I have noticed some companies make "low height" kennels and covered runs, which seem like a good idea as the run area wouldn't be quite so overpowering (I'm giving him most of the garden as it is;)!) Does anyone have one? Are dogs comfortable in a low height run? It will have to be covered, as I expect Sparky might well clear a 6 foot fence before long!

Hi, the low height ones I have seen are either for use as puppy runs, so not covered, indoor runs (I have these) or temporary ones which can be moved round the garden/yard. The problem I can see with a low height permanent one - how do you clean it out without having to bend double? It would depend on the breed of dog, of course, if a 3 or 4 ft high run would be suitable anyway.
bye
Gwen

hi traceyl,
we recently bought a low height kennel and run,the dimensions are 4'highx4'widex8'long,the run area is covered and the door is a stable kind to the kennel. the cost was £300 including delivery and fitting.
the company is http://www.kirtonbuildings.co.uk
we only use ours if we are going to be out longer than a few hours,and for when we have a bitch stopping.
hope this helps
mel:)

WE have something similar - a makeshift measure until we can build full-size ones. Unfortunately - they are back-breaking to clean out!

Margot (who manages to be doing something else at the time the kennels are due to be washed out :D)

One of my first kennels had a low hight run and it was a real nuisance cleaning it out and going in and out half double or on my knees. If you have any sort of back problem ( or dont want to get one!!) Even if they are used for only a few hours a day, it will need sweeping and washing regularly, sweeping/mopping was difficult - I had to chop down a broom and mop. I would at least have a full hight run if you possibly can even you have a low height kennel - make sure a small kennel has very good ventilation though as little air space inside means it could get very hot in summer. When I had mine made I had extra (closable) vents put all the way round the top, so the door/window could be closed at night for security. Even if you dont intend to use it at night you may want to one day.

Thanks everyone,
Hadn't thought about the bending over!
Tracy

You can always try these

http://www.simply-summerhouses.co.uk/treetops_kennelrun.htm

Decent price

Try Sally at Hextons Ltd 01299 861 036 www.hextons.co.uk 8'x4' £200 or made to measure.
regards Paul

why don't you buy a small shed, just a thought :D