Do you want to buy a dog kennel for your dog? It’s a good idea, provided you comply with the legal requirements for accommodation in the kennel and don’t let your furry friend live exclusively in the kennel, but only temporarily. The entire kennel is not species-appropriate. Nevertheless, a kennel is a good addition for four-legged friends. Read more about purchasing and animal welfare here.
The difference between a kennel and a kennel is primarily the size. Kennels are significantly larger and allow dogs to stand and walk around. Accordingly, you also have to dig deeper into your wallet when buying a dog kennel. Characteristic are the bars that almost every kennel has. There are clear rules for the outdoor space – namely in the Animal Welfare Dog Ordinance.
Buying a dog kennel: Observe animal welfare requirements.
The minimum size of a kennel depends on the animal’s shoulder height (height at the withers). So it would help if you considered the following stages:
● Shoulder height up to 50 cm – floor area at least six m²
● Shoulder height from 50 to 65 cm – floor area at least eight m²
● Shoulder height over 65 cm – floor area at least ten m²
The length of each side must be at least twice the body length of the animal, and no side may be shorter than two meters. Note that the specifications are minimum sizes; every dog is happy about more space in the kennel. The ordinance also stipulates: “A dog must be allowed sufficient outdoor exercise outside of a kennel […] and sufficient contact with the person who keeps the dog, looks after it or has to look after it (caregiver). Exercise and social contacts are appropriate to the breed to adapt to the age and health of the dog.” (TierSchHuV §2(1))
Especially if you build a kennel yourself, you should closely look at the specifications. Further important information on kennel maintenance can be found in the Animal Welfare Ordinance under §6, “Requirements for kennel maintenance.”
Buying a dog kennel: many options
In specialist shops, you will find a wide selection of dog kennels. As a rule, the buildings are made of wood and have free sides with bars. The floor must be robust and non-slip, and there must be a roof. Necessary: Choose a location for the kennel that gives your dog a view of the house to see everything while he’s outside. A kennel must be built without materials that are hazardous to health and without the risk of injury from sharp edges or other sources of danger. It is best to find out about the safety aspects in specialist shops. Ideally, it would help if you bought a dog kennel from a local specialist retailer, where you can get good advice.
There are kennels in all sizes, shapes, and colors. There must be an integrated kennel in the kennel. Opportunities to retreat, space to sleep and eat, and protection from wind and weather are prerequisites for an animal-friendly kennel.
