I wondered if anyone can advise me on constructing a dog run. We want to build a secure run in our paddock (on grass) big enough for all the dogs (3 Maremmas and a Smooth collie) but separated into two sections so that we can split them up if needed or allow them access to the whole run. It'll need shelter of course but none of them will live out there permanently - it is more for them to be able to be outside safely and comfortably for some of the day. But I am not sure how big to make it (they have access to 2 acres when supervised but the boundary is not secure enough to leave them alone in that) or what kind of kennel shelter to include. I am thinking at least 6 foot high fencing - and probably something at ground level to discourage digging? Any suggestions? Would 30'x20' be enough room for larger dogs to play or should it be bigger (am thinking each run being 30x20)? I am hopeless at visualising space! And would it be better to get one big kennel with a divider or 4 little ones?

Any tips would be much appreciated. Thanks
Janet

30X20 times 2 is very big - it'll cost a fortune if you are planning a concrete base and kennel panels. Suggest that first of all you pick the spot it is to go and measure out to get some idea of the area you want. As for the kennel - are they same sex dogs, do you need to seperate them at any time? You could consider splitting the "rest area" into two.

We can't do concrete as it is in a grass paddock and has to stay grass. Was intending to make it with mesh and posts rather than panels to be affordable (commercial kennel systems seem really expensive even for quite small spaces). Have paced it out in the paddock but trouble is I can't visualise it with the dogs in it so I don't know if they could run about and play... Maybe I should stake it out with rope or something and put them in it!  I do need to be able to separate the dogs - there are 3 bitches and a dog - but it is the bitches I need to be able to separate - one is a new arrival (as an adult) and I wouldn't leave her with the other girls just in case. I wondered about splitting the kennel area - having one "hut" with a panel down the middle - but would need a lot of doors!

Think I had better find a long bit of rope! :)

Thanks
Janet

I think there a couple of books about how to design kennel runs - try a Google or E-Bay. I was lucky - had the building already, so just had to add the runs.