Discover the best dog kennels UK has to offer in 2025. Expert reviews, real customer ratings, and a comprehensive buying guide to help you choose the perfect kennel. From single dog kennels to multi-bay systems for breeders, we cover premium wooden kennels with 15-year guarantees, thermal cabins, and modular kennel blocks. Read trusted Trustpilot reviews and find the ideal kennel for your dog's comfort and safety.
Looking for the best dog kennels UK has to offer? You're in the right place. Whether you're a breeder, boarding kennel owner, or simply want the perfect outdoor home for your beloved pet, choosing the right kennel is crucial for your dog's comfort, safety, and wellbeing.
At Kennelstore, we specialise in premium wooden dog kennels built to withstand the British weather, backed by 15-year anti-rot guarantees and trusted by dog owners across the UK. But don't just take our word for it:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Outstanding quality - exactly what we needed for our Labradors. The craftsmanship is exceptional and delivery was seamless. Highly recommend Kennelstore!"
In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the best dog kennels available in the UK, real customer reviews, and expert advice to help you choose the perfect kennel for your needs.
What Makes a Great Dog Kennel?
Before diving into our top picks, let's look at what separates premium dog kennels from budget alternatives:
Durability & Materials - The best dog kennels use pressure-treated timber that resists rot, warping, and weather damage. Look for galvanised fittings and heavy-duty construction that will last decades, not just years.
Weather Resistance - British weather is unpredictable. Apex roofs shed rain and snow effectively, while raised floors prevent damp and provide insulation. Quality kennels should perform year-round without deterioration.
Size & Space - Your dog should be able to stand, turn around, stretch, and lie down comfortably. Kennels with attached runs provide essential exercise space, while multi-bay systems suit breeders and multiple-dog households.
Ventilation & Comfort - Proper airflow prevents condensation and keeps your dog comfortable in all seasons. Insulated floors and walls are essential for year-round outdoor use.
Easy Maintenance - Removable floors, wipe-clean surfaces, and accessible designs make cleaning simple and hygienic.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "We've had our Kennelstore kennel for three years now and it still looks brand new. The quality of the timber and construction is miles ahead of anything else we looked at."
Best Dog Kennels UK: Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: Aston Wooden Dog Kennel and Run
What it is: The Aston range represents the gold standard in single-dog kennels, combining a spacious sleeping area with an attached exercise run. This classic apex-roof design has been refined over years to deliver the perfect balance of comfort, durability, and value.
Key Features:
- Pressure-treated timber construction with 15-year anti-rot guarantee
- Apex roof design for superior weather protection
- Galvanised weld mesh panels for security and ventilation
- Removable floor for easy cleaning and maintenance
- Multiple size configurations to suit all breeds
- Separate sleeping and run areas
- Heavy-duty galvanised fittings throughout
Best for: Single dogs, families, year-round outdoor use, medium to large breeds
Why customers love it:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Purchased the Aston kennel for our German Shepherd and couldn't be happier. The build quality is superb - you can tell it's built to last. Assembly was straightforward and the instructions were clear. Six months in and it's weathered storms and snow without any issues. Worth every penny." - Mark T., Lancashire
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Best investment we've made for our dog. The Aston kennel is spacious, well-ventilated, and beautifully constructed. Our Labrador loves having her own space and the run gives her room to move. Delivery was on time and the customer service was excellent." - Jennifer K., Devon
2. Best for Multiple Dogs: Delamere 3-Bay Luxury Dog Kennel
What it is: The Delamere represents the pinnacle of multi-dog kennel design. This premium 3-bay system features insulated floors, separate sleeping and run areas for each dog, and commercial-grade construction trusted by professional breeders and boarding kennels across the UK.
Key Features:
- Insulated floors for superior year-round comfort
- Three separate bays - each with sleeping area and run
- Heavy-duty pressure-treated timber construction
- Professional-grade galvanised mesh and fittings
- Apex roofs on each sleeping area
- Designed for commercial breeding and boarding use
- 15-year anti-rot guarantee
Best for: Breeders, boarding kennels, families with multiple dogs, professional use
Why customers love it:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "We run a small boarding kennel and the Delamere 3-bay has been absolutely brilliant. The insulated floors keep the dogs comfortable even in winter, and the separate bays mean each dog has their own space. Build quality is exceptional - this is clearly designed for professional use. Best kennel investment we've made." - Sarah P., Yorkshire
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "As a breeder, I need kennels I can rely on. The Delamere system is perfect - spacious, well-insulated, and built to last. My dogs are comfortable year-round and the separate bays make management so much easier. Highly recommend for anyone serious about dog care." - David M., Scotland
3. Best Modular System: Chesterton Dog Kennel Blocks
What it is: The Chesterton kennel block system offers unmatched flexibility for growing operations. Start with 2 blocks and expand up to 6 as your needs grow. Each block provides a separate sleeping area and run, making this the ultimate scalable solution for breeders and boarding kennels.
Key Features:
- Fully modular design - add blocks as you expand (2, 3, 4, 5, or 6-block configurations)
- Individual sleeping and run areas per block
- Commercial-grade construction built for professional use
- Customizable layouts to suit your space
- Pressure-treated timber with 15-year guarantee
- Heavy-duty galvanised mesh and fittings
- Easy to expand without replacing existing setup
Best for: Breeders planning to expand, boarding kennels, scalable operations, commercial use
Why customers love it:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Started with a 3-block Chesterton system and added another 3 blocks last year. The modular design is genius - we could expand without starting from scratch. Quality is outstanding and the dogs love their individual spaces. Perfect for our growing breeding operation." - Robert H., Wales
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "The flexibility of the Chesterton blocks is exactly what we needed. We began with 4 blocks and knew we could add more when ready. Construction is solid, maintenance is easy, and the dogs are comfortable year-round. Couldn't ask for better." - Emma L., Midlands
Shop Chesterton Kennel Blocks →
4. Best Budget-Friendly: Bunbury 2-Bay Wooden Dog Kennel
What it is: The Bunbury 2-bay system delivers premium Kennelstore quality at a more accessible price point. Perfect for families with two dogs or small-scale breeders, this compact system doesn't compromise on construction quality or durability.
Key Features:
- Premium pressure-treated timber construction
- 15-year anti-rot guarantee (same as our premium ranges)
- Two separate sleeping areas with individual runs
- Apex roof design for weather protection
- Galvanised mesh and fittings
- Compact footprint ideal for smaller gardens
- Excellent value without sacrificing quality
Best for: Families with 2 dogs, small breeders, those wanting premium quality on a budget
Why customers love it:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "We have two Spaniels and the Bunbury 2-bay is perfect for them. Each dog has their own space but they can still see each other. The quality is excellent - you'd never know this was the 'budget' option. Great value for money." - Lisa W., Kent
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Brilliant kennel for the price. Same quality timber and construction as the more expensive ranges but in a compact 2-bay format. Our dogs are happy and dry, and we're confident it'll last for years. Highly recommend." - Tom R., Essex
5. Best for Year-Round Use: Thermal Dog Cabins
What it is: Our thermal dog cabins represent the cutting edge in all-weather dog housing. Featuring 20mm insulation, hygienic wipe-clean composite surfaces, and anti-bacterial options, these cabins provide superior comfort in all seasons while being incredibly easy to maintain.
Key Features:
- 20mm insulation for year-round temperature control
- Hygienic wipe-clean composite surfaces
- Weather-proof construction for British climate
- Anti-bacterial surface options available
- Lightweight yet durable composite materials
- Available in single, double, and triple bay configurations
- Perfect for outdoor use in all seasons
Best for: Year-round outdoor use, easy maintenance, maximum weather protection, hygienic environments
Why customers love it:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "The thermal cabin has been a game-changer for our working dogs. They stay warm in winter and cool in summer, and the wipe-clean surfaces make maintenance so easy. Brilliant product - wish we'd bought one sooner." - Andrew S., Cumbria
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "We needed something that would perform in all weathers and the thermal cabin delivers. The insulation really works - our dogs are comfortable even on the coldest nights. The anti-bacterial surface is perfect for keeping everything hygienic. Excellent quality." - Rachel B., Northumberland
Dog Kennel Comparison Table
| Kennel Range | Best For | Blocks/Bays | Insulated | Guarantee | Customer Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aston | Single dogs, families | 1 | Optional | 15 years | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Delamere | Multiple dogs, breeders | 3 | ✓ Yes | 15 years | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Chesterton | Scalable operations | 2-6 | Optional | 15 years | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Bunbury | Budget-conscious buyers | 2 | - | 15 years | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Thermal Cabins | All-weather protection | 1-3 | ✓ Yes | - | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
How to Choose the Best Dog Kennel for Your Needs
Consider Your Dog's Size & Breed
Size matters when choosing a dog kennel. Your dog should be able to stand at full height, turn around comfortably, and stretch out when lying down. As a general guide:
- Small breeds (Terriers, Spaniels): Minimum 4ft x 4ft sleeping area
- Medium breeds (Collies, Beagles): Minimum 6ft x 4ft sleeping area
- Large breeds (Labradors, German Shepherds): Minimum 6ft x 6ft sleeping area
- Giant breeds (Great Danes, Mastiffs): Minimum 8ft x 6ft sleeping area
Remember, bigger is always better when it comes to your dog's comfort. The attached run should provide additional exercise space beyond the sleeping area.
Number of Dogs
Single dog: The Aston wooden dog kennel offers the perfect balance of space, quality, and value for one dog.
Two dogs: The Bunbury 2-bay system provides separate sleeping areas while keeping costs manageable.
Three or more dogs: Consider the Delamere 3-bay kennel or Chesterton kennel blocks for professional-grade multi-dog housing.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "We have four dogs and the Chesterton 4-block system is perfect. Each dog has their own space but they can still interact through the mesh. Makes feeding and management so much easier. Best decision we made." - Claire D., Cornwall
Climate & Location
Year-round outdoor use: If your kennel will be outside in all weathers, insulation is essential. Our thermal dog cabins offer 20mm insulation for maximum comfort, while the Delamere kennels feature insulated floors.
Sheltered locations: Standard wooden kennels like the Aston range perform excellently in sheltered gardens or under cover.
Exposed sites: For exposed locations, consider thermal cabins or kennels with additional weather protection features.
All our wooden kennels feature apex roofs that shed rain and snow effectively, and pressure-treated timber that resists rot and weather damage for 15 years.
Budget Considerations
Quality dog kennels are an investment that pays dividends over years of reliable use. While it's tempting to opt for cheaper alternatives, premium kennels with 15-year guarantees actually save money long-term by eliminating the need for replacements.
Entry-level quality: The Bunbury 2-bay system offers premium construction at our most accessible price point.
Mid-range: Aston kennels and thermal cabins provide excellent value for single-dog households.
Premium investment: Delamere and Chesterton blocks are designed for professional use and represent the best long-term value for breeders and boarding kennels.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Initially hesitated at the price but after three years of flawless performance, I can say it's worth every penny. Cheaper kennels would have needed replacing by now. Quality really does pay off." - Michael F., Hampshire
Future Expansion Plans
If you're planning to expand your breeding operation or add more dogs in the future, modular systems offer the best flexibility.
Modular systems: Chesterton kennel blocks can be expanded from 2 blocks up to 6 blocks without replacing your existing setup.
Fixed systems: Aston, Delamere, and Bunbury kennels are perfect if you know exactly how many dogs you'll house.
What Customers Say: Real Reviews from UK Dog Owners
Don't just take our word for it. Here's what real customers say about their Kennelstore dog kennels:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Outstanding quality and service"
"We purchased an Aston kennel and run for our Labrador and the quality is exceptional - far better than anything we saw elsewhere. The timber is beautifully finished, the construction is solid, and everything fits together perfectly. Delivery was smooth and the team helped us choose the right size for our dog. Six months in and it still looks brand new despite the British weather. Couldn't be happier with our purchase."
- Sarah M., Yorkshire
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Perfect for our breeding operation"
"We run a small breeding kennel and needed something reliable and professional. The Delamere 3-bay system has exceeded all expectations. The insulated floors keep our dogs comfortable year-round, the separate bays make management easy, and the build quality is clearly designed for commercial use. We've had it for two years now and it's performed flawlessly. Best kennel investment we've made."
- David and Helen P., Scotland
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Brilliant value for money"
"We have two Spaniels and the Bunbury 2-bay is perfect. Each dog has their own sleeping area and run, but they can still see each other which keeps them happy. The quality is excellent - same timber and construction as the more expensive ranges. Assembly took a few hours but the instructions were clear. Great value for money and we're confident it'll last for years."
- Lisa and Tom W., Kent
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Game-changer for winter"
"The thermal cabin has been a revelation for our working dogs. They stay warm and dry even on the coldest, wettest nights. The insulation really works and the wipe-clean surfaces make maintenance incredibly easy. We were skeptical about the composite construction but it's proven to be incredibly durable. Wish we'd bought one years ago!"
- Andrew S., Cumbria
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Expandable system is genius"
"Started with a 3-block Chesterton system three years ago and added another 2 blocks last year as our breeding operation grew. The modular design meant we could expand without replacing everything - saved us thousands. Quality is outstanding, maintenance is minimal, and the dogs are comfortable year-round. Perfect solution for growing kennels."
- Robert H., Wales
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Customer service was excellent"
"From initial enquiry to delivery, the Kennelstore team were brilliant. They helped us choose the right kennel for our German Shepherd, answered all our questions, and kept us updated throughout. The kennel itself is superb - solid construction, beautiful finish, and our dog loves it. Highly recommend both the products and the service."
- Jennifer K., Devon
Why Choose Kennelstore for Your Dog Kennel?
15-Year Anti-Rot Guarantee - All our wooden kennels come with industry-leading 15-year guarantees against rot and structural failure. We use only premium pressure-treated timber that's built to last.
Premium Materials - We never compromise on quality. Pressure-treated timber, heavy-duty galvanised fittings, and professional-grade mesh ensure your kennel performs for decades.
UK-Based with Mainland Delivery - We're a UK company serving UK customers. Mainland delivery is available, and our team understands the unique challenges of the British climate.
Expert Advice - Not sure which kennel is right for you? Our team has years of experience helping customers choose the perfect kennel for their needs. Get in touch and we'll guide you through the options.
Trusted by Professionals - Breeders and boarding kennels across the UK trust Kennelstore for their commercial operations. If it's good enough for the professionals, it's good enough for your beloved pets.
Excellent Customer Reviews - We're proud of our reputation for quality products and outstanding service. Check out our reviews on Trustpilot to see what real customers say.
FAQs: Best Dog Kennels UK
What is the best dog kennel in the UK?
The best dog kennel depends on your specific needs. For single dogs, the Aston wooden dog kennel offers excellent quality and value with a 15-year guarantee. For breeders and multiple dogs, Chesterton kennel blocks provide modular flexibility that grows with your operation. For year-round outdoor use in all weathers, thermal dog cabins offer superior insulation and easy maintenance.
How much should I spend on a dog kennel?
Quality dog kennels are an investment in your dog's comfort and safety. While prices vary based on size and features, investing in a premium kennel with a 15-year guarantee saves money long-term compared to replacing cheaper alternatives every few years. Budget for quality materials, proper construction, and features like insulation if needed for year-round use.
Are wooden dog kennels better than plastic?
Wooden kennels offer superior insulation, durability, and aesthetics compared to plastic alternatives. Our pressure-treated timber kennels come with 15-year anti-rot guarantees and outperform plastic in the British climate. Wooden kennels provide better temperature regulation, are more robust, and look better in your garden. For ultimate performance, consider our thermal dog cabins which combine composite materials with 20mm insulation.
What size dog kennel do I need?
Your dog should be able to stand at full height, turn around comfortably, and lie down fully stretched. As a guide: small breeds need a minimum 4ft x 4ft sleeping area, medium breeds need 6ft x 4ft, large breeds need 6ft x 6ft or larger, and giant breeds need 8ft x 6ft minimum. When in doubt, go larger - your dog will appreciate the extra space.
Do dog kennels need insulation?
For year-round outdoor use, insulation is highly recommended. Insulated floors and walls help regulate temperature, keeping your dog warm in winter and cool in summer. Our Delamere kennels feature insulated floors, while thermal dog cabins offer full 20mm insulation for maximum comfort in all seasons.
How long do wooden dog kennels last?
With proper maintenance, quality wooden dog kennels can last 20-30 years or more. All our wooden kennels use pressure-treated timber and come with 15-year anti-rot guarantees. Regular treatment with wood preservative and keeping the kennel clean will maximize its lifespan.
Can I expand my dog kennel in the future?
Yes, if you choose a modular system. Our Chesterton kennel blocks are designed to be expandable - start with 2 blocks and add up to 6 as your needs grow. Fixed systems like Aston and Delamere kennels are perfect if you know exactly how many dogs you'll house.
What's the difference between kennel blocks and standard kennels?
Kennel blocks are modular systems designed for multiple dogs, with each block providing a separate sleeping area and run. They're ideal for breeders and boarding kennels. Standard kennels like the Aston range are designed for single dogs or fixed numbers of dogs. Blocks offer more flexibility for expansion, while standard kennels are perfect for family pets.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Dog Kennel
Choosing the best dog kennel UK has to offer comes down to understanding your specific needs - the number of dogs, your climate, your budget, and your future plans.
For single dogs and families, the Aston wooden dog kennel delivers unbeatable quality and value. For breeders and boarding kennels, Chesterton blocks and Delamere systems provide professional-grade solutions. For year-round comfort in all weathers, thermal dog cabins offer cutting-edge insulation and easy maintenance.
Whatever you choose, investing in a quality kennel with a 15-year guarantee ensures your dog enjoys comfort, safety, and protection for years to come.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "After months of research, we chose Kennelstore and couldn't be happier. The quality, service, and value are outstanding. Our dogs love their new home and we have complete peace of mind knowing it's built to last. Highly recommend to anyone looking for the best dog kennels in the UK." - James and Emma T., Gloucestershire
Ready to find the perfect kennel for your dog?
Browse Our Full Range of Dog Kennels →
Read More Customer Reviews on Trustpilot →
Related Articles: