When finding the perfect dog house for your canine friend, you should consider using the possibilities of building one using DIY doghouse plans.
Indeed, it’s not always possible to find a dog house that perfectly meets your every need, but if you build your own house, you can design it perfectly to your wishes.
Luckily, we’ve come up with a list of 15 family dog house plans you can make yourself to give your canine companion the best possible home.
Top DIY doghouse plans
1. Beginner doghouse plan by Lowe’s
First up on the list is this free doghouse plan by Lowe’s, designed for an average-sized dog. The dog house is straightforward since it’s made from simple plywood and lumber, making it one of the most effortless designs you’ll find online. A fresh coat of paint can do wonders to spruce it up.
2. Doghouse with deck
If you want to give your dog something extra on top of the necessities, this dog house with a unique deck plan offers the perfect balance between ease, practicality, and excellent design. You can finish the dog house with whatever color paint you want! You can also add a few solar-powered post lights to light up your pup’s house at night without adding to your energy bill.
3. BuildEazy doghouse plan
This free doghouse plan by BuildEazy is the ideal option for people looking for an excellent homemade dog house design, and you can put it together in less than an hour if you put your mind to it. This guide also gives you a wide selection of other points to consider when choosing the best materials for your homemade dog house, helping you customize the plan to your dog’s unique needs.
4. Crooked Doghouse by Ana White
When we think of homemade, DIY doghouses, we often think of lopsided, off screw creations that don’t exactly replicate what you might find in the shops. But what if we told you this lopsided, off-skew style could hold a certain charm?
Indeed, this crooked doghouse plan by Ana White is surprisingly charming and mesmerizing. It might not look like something you planned, but this unique dog house could be the perfect addition to your garden and the ideal cooky, unique design to match your equally one-of-a-kind canine friend.
5. Ranch-style doghouse by Sunset
Want something charming and with a great deal of character to add to your garden? Well, this ranch-style doghouse by Sunset could be a good option. Super easy to make, the dog house is crafted from just a few sheets of plywood and is large enough for most dog breeds. The simple house design can be given a real ranch-style touch up, though, with a bit of asphalt for the roof and a sheet of redwood lattice battens above the door. Super easy and highly effective, and you’d be forgiven for mistaking this ranch-style DIY dog house for anything short of a perfect, professionally made dog house.
6. A-frame insulated doghouse by Instructables
Want a stunning dog house for your canine companion? Well, what about this unique A-frame design that will offer a brilliant aesthetic for your garden? It’s small and compact, making it ideal for any size garden. Moreover, the simple A-frame design is easy to assemble. Because there are only four sides, including the roof, this design is exceptionally affordable as a DIY doghouse design, too. So, what’s not to love? Give it a try.
7. Indoor dog kennel end table by Ana White
We’ve already listed one of Ana White’s creations, but this indoor dog kennel design deserves a spot on this list. While it’s more suited for an indoor dog, the fact that it doubles as an end table makes it an excellent choice. Plus, it’s super easy.
8. Log cabin dog house by DIY Network
Regarding DIY doghouse plans, this one is arguably a little more complex than others on our list. Still, with its charming log cabin design and relatively simple step-by-step instructions, most people who know their way around a hammer should be able to give it a good shot! Plus, full instructions are on the link provided so that you can give it a go.
9. DIY wooden doghouse by Dear Lillie Studio
For a classy touch to your doghouse, this design by Dear Lillie Studio could be just what you’re looking for. It’s the perfect country-style dog house for any garden and is quaint, cozy, and charming. Your dog — and everyone who sees this doghouse — will love it.
10. Mobile doghouse by Instructables
Suppose you want a dog house that you can use wherever; then this unique mobile doghouse could be just the option to choose for your canine companion. This mobile dog house can be made to any size, depending on what your dog needs, and it’s made with old things you’ve probably got lying around, too — a couple of old lawnmower wheels, some hinges, and some pine.
11. Custom insulated doghouse by Ron Hazelton
This custom insulated doghouse design is ideal for cold summer nights or winter days. In nine simple steps, you’ll have an insulated doghouse unlike anything on the market.
12. The Sparkyl by Doggie Designer
A unique feature of this doghouse by Doggie Designer is that it is made from all recycled materials and could be an excellent addition to your garden. Plus, the design is one of the most straightforward online, making it an excellent option.
13. Tropical doghouse
Made from a few sheets of plywood, this tropical doghouse design is unique and made from things many people have lying around. Give your pooch the taste of the tropics with this simple dog house that’s perfect for them.
14. Modern doghouse by Modern Builds
It’s not the easiest design on our list of free plans. Nonetheless, with some time and care, you can make this unique modern doghouse design from a sheet of plywood, an acrylic sheet, some pallet wood, paint, and a few extras.
15. Simple doghouse plan by My Outdoor Plans
As the final choice for our list, we’ve picked this super easy doghouse plan; this model uses just a few sheets of plywood, lumber, and some asphalt shingles. It is quite simple, and if you’ve not found a design on this list that you’ve been happy with so far, this might be the perfect one.
Advantages to building a DIY doghouse
Building a DIY doghouse offers several advantages over purchasing a pre-made one, making it an appealing option for pet owners who want to cater specifically to their furry friends.
One of the most significant benefits is customization. When you build a doghouse yourself, you have complete control over its size, design, and layout, allowing you to tailor it to fit your dog’s breed, size, and personality.
You can elevate it on pallets and add insulation to create an insulated dog house for your pup’s comfort.
Whether you want to add a cozy sleeping nook, a window for ventilation, or a sloped roof for rain runoff, the possibilities are endless.
Additionally, you can choose materials that match your home’s aesthetic, creating a cohesive look in your yard.
Cost savings are another compelling factor to consider. Pre-made doghouses can be surprisingly expensive, especially those that are well-constructed or aesthetically pleasing.
By opting for a DIY approach, you can save money on materials and avoid the markups usually associated with retail products.
Often, you can repurpose wood and other materials you already have on hand, further reducing costs.
Lastly, there’s the satisfaction of creating something unique for your pet.
Maintain your DIY doghouse
To keep your DIY doghouse safe and comfortable for your furry friend, follow these maintenance tips:
Weatherproofing
Seal gaps: Check for cracks and use caulk to seal them, keeping moisture out.
Protect the roof: Ensure the roof is covered with waterproof material to prevent leaks.
Elevate: Raise the doghouse on blocks to improve drainage and airflow.
Cleaning
Regular cleaning: Clean the interior and wash bedding frequently with pet-safe solutions.
Remove debris: Keep the area around the doghouse clear of leaves and trash to deter pests.
Routine maintenance
Inspect for damage: Regularly check for wear and address any cracks or instability.
Repainting or restaining: Refresh the paint or stain to protect the wood from the elements.
Check the door: Ensure the door operates smoothly to provide safe access for your dog.
Seasonal preparations
Winterize: Add insulation like straw in colder months and consider a door flap to keep warmth in.
Summer cooling: Place the doghouse in a shaded area and ensure good airflow.
Ready to build a DIY doghouse?
If you’ve been looking for the best DIY doghouse plans to create an ideal home for your beloved canine companion, our list of the top 15 plans anyone can build will hopefully help.