i have three labs and was wondering how big their run and sleeping area should be. i am hoping to build something from block and insulate it. i am getting galvanised kennel run but how big should it be?? i want my dogs in the one run.. how much room do they need for sleeping...is there a website that would give me ideas or plans etc... also any ideas for cosy bedding that the labs wont eat they still chew everything in site...

I would suggest using vet bed as it is easily washable :) How old are they all just out of interest ? :)

Lucy
xx

Hello guest, I have got five labs and four of them live outside as they are working dogs. My dogs have seperate runs as this is helpful to stop dogs getting to bitches in season or any fights that may break out although it may be rare. I have three runs that are 13ft long and 6ft wide and one run that is 13ft long and 8ft wide, the larger one is useful for puppies to play in. All my runs are big enough for the dog to walk around and strech their legs. They also go out at least twice aday down the woods and also go out for training, plus I go and see them though out the day. When dogs live outside you need to make more time for fuss and exercise as they don't get as much human company as they would if they were indoors.

hi... i do have have a large run which they will be in when i am away for short periods of time.. believe me my dogs get lots of attention and excercise... i still am trying to work out how big their sleeping accomodation needs to be and ideas for comfortable bedding that they wont tear apart...

My dogs sleeping quarters are about 3x4 ft and only about 4ft high and raised of the ground. by keeping them small and off the ground it helps to retain heat in the winter, the lids are also vented so they don't get too hot in the summer. If you are going to have them all together then I would just use your own judgement as long as they have all got room to lay flat out.  I use shredded paper for bedding in the winter and change it every day, I find that it is good when the dogs come home from shooting, it helps to soak all the water out of their coats and I change it before they bed down for the night. In the summer I use rubber matting, (the same thing they use for horse stables) This just gives them something soft to lay down on.