Bringing your dogs along on extended trips doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. For pet owners who frequently travel or stay on remote properties, creating a reliable, cost-effective dog run ensures your furry friends are safe and comfortable.
This blog post walks through how we built a durable, portable dog run—saving hundreds of dollars and avoiding the hassle of pet sitters.
Why This Dog Run Plan Works
- Cost-Effective: Much cheaper than commercial $500 dog runs.
- Portable or Permanent: Adaptable for temporary setups or permanent installations.
- Customizable: Size and structure tailored to your needs.
- Simple Materials: Uses livestock panels and common tools.
- Dog-Friendly: Allows dogs to roam freely without being tethered.
- Time-Saving: Quick setup, especially with a gate installed.
- Multi-Purpose: Also great for garden fencing or sectioning areas in a yard.
What You Will Need
- Heavy-gauge livestock panels (20 ft. long, 48 in. tall, 2×4 or 4×4 or 6×8 mesh)
- Aluminum wire (flexible and easy to manipulate)
- Chain link fence gate hinges (optional)
- Old metal gate (optional)
- Metal T fence posts (optional, about 5 for extra stability)
- Sledgehammer (4 lb)
- Pliers and tape measure
- 9 safety latches or clamps
- Reciprocating saw (if cutting panels or installing a gate)
- Oil (to lubricate saw blade for smoother cuts)
Step 1: Gather Supplies and Tools
Start by laying out all materials and tools. If attaching the dog run to an existing fence, only three panels may be needed. Select a flat, level area for setup. Use a shovel to level the ground or create a shallow trench where needed.
Step 2: Layout and Position Panels
Lay the panels flat on the ground to visualize the layout. Ensure edges align properly. Determine the dog run’s desired dimensions based on your dogs’ size and available space. Overlap panels if a smaller run is needed.
Step 3: Connect the Panels Together
Use safety latches to secure panels at corners and the center. Wire ties also work if latches are unavailable. For a portable setup, panels can be joined and opened using latches.
If panels are cut for customization, file sharp edges smooth to avoid injuries. For extra support, drive T fence posts into each corner.
Step 4: Add the Gate (Optional)
To install a gate, cut an opening in one panel. File down rough edges. Drive two metal posts into the ground at the opening’s sides, leaving a few inches exposed.
Slide chain link fence posts over the metal posts, resting them on the exposed section. Attach hinges and secure the gate. The process takes under an hour once the opening is cut.
Step 5: Reinforce with Fence Posts (Optional)
For stability, install metal T fence posts at all corners. These prevent shifting, especially during rough weather. Panels can be bent to form corners if preferred. Use a plywood base to protect surfaces while bending.
Stand on thick plywood over the wire for leverage. Gradually bend lateral wires lengthwise with a wrench at about 15 degrees per pass, repeating until a smooth corner forms.
Note: Always use caution with tools and sharp materials. This setup is not recommended around small children who might attempt to climb the dog run.
Other Details Display
- Panel Cost: $20 per panel (purchased 8 years ago at a farm supply store in Texas)
- Tools Needed: Sledgehammer, pliers, reciprocating saw, tape measure
- Wire Type: Aluminum wire for ease of use
- Gate Option: Standard chain link gate or safety latch panel opening
- Corner Support: Metal T fence posts for stability
- Setup Time: Less than an hour with gate, faster without
- Portability: Panels can be reused, repositioned, or repurposed for garden use
- Weatherproofing: Plywood can be added to sides/top for shelter
- Safety: Always smooth sharp edges and supervise children
Summary
Building a DIY affordable dog run is a smart solution for pet owners who want flexibility, safety, and savings.
This project lets us travel with peace of mind, knowing our dogs are secure and comfortable.
With the right materials and a little effort, it’s possible to create a sturdy, reliable dog run that suits various needs.
