Get expert answers to your dog kennel questions. Comprehensive FAQ covering sizing, materials, insulation, costs, and choosing the best kennel for your needs. From Labradors to German Shepherds, single dogs to breeding operations - all your questions answered by Kennelstore's experts with 15-year guarantees on premium wooden kennels.
Choosing the right dog kennel can feel overwhelming with so many options available. Whether you're a first-time buyer, experienced breeder, or boarding kennel owner, you likely have questions about size, materials, insulation, and which kennel is best for your needs.
We've compiled the most common questions about dog kennels in the UK and provided expert answers based on over [X] years of experience and hundreds of customer reviews. From sizing guides to material comparisons, this comprehensive FAQ will help you make the right choice for your dog's comfort and safety.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Kennelstore answered all my questions before I bought and the kennel exceeded expectations. Brilliant service and quality!"
Dog Kennel Sizing & Space
What size dog kennel do I need for a Labrador?
For a Labrador (or similar medium-to-large breed), you need a minimum sleeping area of 6ft x 6ft to ensure your dog can stand at full height, turn around comfortably, and stretch out when lying down. The attached run should provide at least an additional 6ft of length for exercise space.
Our Aston wooden dog kennels are ideal for Labradors, offering spacious sleeping areas with secure runs. Many Labrador owners choose the 6ft x 6ft or larger configurations for maximum comfort.
Pro tip: If your Labrador will spend extended periods in the kennel, go larger. Dogs appreciate extra space, and you'll never regret buying too big.
What size dog kennel do I need for a German Shepherd?
German Shepherds are large, active dogs that need substantial space. We recommend a minimum 6ft x 6ft sleeping area, though 8ft x 6ft is ideal for this breed. The run should be at least 6-8ft long to allow proper movement and exercise.
German Shepherds also benefit from good ventilation and weather protection. Our Aston kennels feature apex roofs for superior weather resistance and galvanised mesh for excellent airflow.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Purchased the Aston kennel for our German Shepherd and couldn't be happier. Plenty of space and built like a tank. Highly recommend."
How do I measure my dog for a kennel?
Follow these steps to ensure proper sizing:
- Height: Measure your dog standing at full height from floor to top of head. Add 6-12 inches for headroom.
- Length: Measure from nose to base of tail while standing. Add 12-18 inches for stretching room.
- Width: Measure shoulder width and double it for turning space.
General sizing guide:
- Small breeds (Terriers, Spaniels): 4ft x 4ft minimum
- Medium breeds (Collies, Beagles): 6ft x 4ft minimum
- Large breeds (Labradors, German Shepherds): 6ft x 6ft minimum
- Giant breeds (Great Danes, Mastiffs): 8ft x 6ft minimum
When in doubt, always go larger. Your dog will appreciate the extra space.
Can two dogs share one kennel?
While two dogs can share a single large kennel if they get along well, we strongly recommend separate sleeping areas for hygiene, safety, and stress reduction. Each dog should have their own space to retreat to.
Our Bunbury 2-bay kennels provide two separate sleeping areas with individual runs - perfect for two dogs. For three or more dogs, consider our Delamere 3-bay system or Chesterton kennel blocks.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "We have two Spaniels and the Bunbury 2-bay is perfect. Each dog has their own space but they can still see each other. Brilliant design."
Materials & Construction
Are wooden dog kennels better than plastic?
Yes, wooden dog kennels offer significant advantages over plastic alternatives:
Insulation: Wood provides natural insulation, keeping dogs warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Plastic kennels offer minimal temperature regulation.
Durability: Quality pressure-treated timber lasts 20-30+ years with proper maintenance. Plastic becomes brittle and cracks over time, especially in UV exposure and cold weather.
Aesthetics: Wooden kennels look better in gardens and can be stained or painted to match your property.
Stability: Wooden kennels are heavier and more stable in wind. Plastic kennels can blow over or shift.
Repairability: Wooden kennels can be repaired if damaged. Cracked plastic typically requires full replacement.
All our wooden dog kennels use pressure-treated timber with 15-year anti-rot guarantees, far outlasting plastic alternatives.
How long do wooden dog kennels last?
With proper maintenance, quality wooden dog kennels last 20-30 years or more. The key factors are:
Quality of timber: Pressure-treated timber resists rot, insects, and weather damage. All our kennels use premium pressure-treated wood with 15-year guarantees.
Construction quality: Heavy-duty galvanised fittings, proper joinery, and apex roofs extend lifespan significantly.
Maintenance: Annual treatment with wood preservative and keeping the kennel clean maximizes longevity.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "We've had our Kennelstore kennel for three years and it still looks brand new. The quality of timber and construction is exceptional."
Our 15-year anti-rot guarantee demonstrates our confidence in the durability of our wooden kennels.
What is pressure-treated timber?
Pressure-treated timber has been infused with preservatives under high pressure, forcing the treatment deep into the wood fibres. This process protects against:
- Rot and decay
- Insect damage (woodworm, beetles)
- Fungal growth
- Weather damage
Why it matters for dog kennels: Outdoor kennels face constant exposure to rain, snow, and ground moisture. Pressure-treated timber resists these elements for decades, while untreated wood rots within a few years.
All our wooden kennels use pressure-treated timber as standard, backed by 15-year anti-rot guarantees.
Do wooden dog kennels need maintenance?
Minimal maintenance keeps wooden kennels in excellent condition:
Annual treatment: Apply wood preservative or stain once per year to maintain weather resistance and appearance.
Regular cleaning: Remove bedding, sweep out debris, and wash floors periodically for hygiene.
Inspection: Check for any loose fittings or damage annually and repair promptly.
Drainage: Ensure the area around the kennel drains properly to prevent standing water.
That's it! With these simple steps, your wooden kennel will last decades.
Insulation & Weather Protection
Do I need an insulated dog kennel?
If your dog will use the kennel year-round outdoors, insulation is highly recommended. Insulated kennels provide:
Temperature regulation: Warmer in winter, cooler in summer Energy efficiency: Dogs expend less energy maintaining body temperature Comfort: Better sleep quality and overall wellbeing Health benefits: Reduced risk of cold-related illness in winter
Our Delamere kennels feature insulated floors, while thermal dog cabins offer full 20mm insulation for maximum year-round comfort.
For sheltered locations or seasonal use, standard wooden kennels with apex roofs provide adequate protection.
Are thermal dog cabins worth it?
Absolutely, especially for year-round outdoor use. Thermal dog cabins offer:
Superior insulation: 20mm insulation maintains comfortable temperatures in all seasons Hygienic surfaces: Wipe-clean composite materials are easy to maintain Weather resistance: Fully sealed construction keeps out rain, wind, and drafts Durability: Composite materials won't rot, warp, or require treatment Anti-bacterial options: Available for maximum hygiene
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "The thermal cabin has been a game-changer for our working dogs. They stay warm in winter and cool in summer. Brilliant product."
Thermal cabins cost more upfront but save money on bedding, heating, and maintenance while providing superior comfort.
How do I keep my dog warm in a kennel in winter?
Insulation: Choose kennels with insulated floors or full insulation like our thermal cabins
Bedding: Provide thick, warm bedding (straw, blankets, or specialist dog bed)
Location: Position the kennel in a sheltered spot away from prevailing winds
Raised floors: Ensure the kennel has a raised floor to prevent ground cold and damp
Weather protection: Apex roofs shed rain and snow effectively
Size: Don't go too large - dogs warm smaller spaces more easily with body heat
All our wooden kennels feature raised floors and apex roofs as standard. For maximum winter comfort, consider Delamere kennels with insulated floors or thermal cabins with full insulation.
Will my dog be safe in a kennel during storms?
Yes, quality wooden kennels provide excellent storm protection:
Apex roofs: Shed rain and snow while resisting wind uplift Heavy construction: Solid timber won't blow over like lightweight alternatives Secure fittings: Galvanised bolts and brackets keep everything together Raised floors: Prevent flooding from ground water
Our kennels are designed for the British climate and perform excellently in storms, high winds, and heavy rain.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Our kennel has weathered some serious storms without any issues. Solid as a rock and our dog feels safe and secure."
Choosing the Right Kennel
What's the best dog kennel in the UK?
The best dog kennel depends on your specific needs:
Best overall for single dogs: Aston wooden dog kennels - excellent quality, 15-year guarantee, perfect balance of features and value
Best for multiple dogs: Delamere 3-bay kennels - insulated floors, professional-grade construction, trusted by breeders
Best for scalability: Chesterton kennel blocks - modular design, expand from 2-6 blocks as needed
Best budget option: Bunbury 2-bay kennels - premium quality at accessible price
Best for year-round use: Thermal dog cabins - 20mm insulation, hygienic, weather-proof
Read our comprehensive Best Dog Kennels UK 2025 guide for detailed comparisons and customer reviews.
How much should I spend on a dog kennel?
Quality dog kennels are an investment that pays dividends over decades of use. While prices vary based on size and features, here's what to expect:
Budget range: £1,829.99 - £2,550 - Entry-level quality like our Bunbury kennels
Mid-range: £894.99 - £1,284.99 - Premium single kennels like Aston and thermal cabins
Professional range: £2,564.99+ - Multi-bay systems like Delamere and Chesterton blocks
Important: Cheap kennels (under £700 typically use untreated timber, poor fittings, and thin materials. They rot within 2-5 years, requiring replacement. A quality kennel with a 15-year guarantee actually costs less over its lifetime.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Initially hesitated at the price but after three years of flawless performance, I can say it's worth every penny. Quality really does pay off."
What features should I look for in a dog kennel?
Essential features:
- Pressure-treated timber with anti-rot guarantee
- Apex roof for weather protection
- Raised floor to prevent damp
- Galvanised mesh for ventilation and security
- Heavy-duty galvanised fittings
- Removable floor for easy cleaning
- Adequate size for your dog's breed
Premium features:
- Insulated floors or walls
- Separate sleeping and run areas
- Modular/expandable design
- Anti-bacterial surfaces
- Professional-grade construction
All our kennels include the essential features as standard. Premium features are available in our Delamere, Chesterton, and thermal cabin ranges.
What's the difference between kennel blocks and standard kennels?
Standard kennels (like Aston) are designed for single dogs or fixed numbers of dogs. They feature one sleeping area with an attached run.
Kennel blocks (like Chesterton) are modular systems with multiple separate units. Each block has its own sleeping area and run.
Key differences:
| Feature | Standard Kennels | Kennel Blocks |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Single dogs, families | Breeders, boarding kennels |
| Expandable | No | Yes (add blocks as needed) |
| Separate spaces | One | Multiple (2-6 blocks) |
| Price | Lower | Higher (but scalable) |
| Flexibility | Fixed | Highly flexible |
Choose standard kennels if you have 1-2 dogs and won't expand. Choose kennel blocks if you're a breeder, run a boarding kennel, or plan to add more dogs.
Read our Dog Kennel Blocks UK guide for detailed information.
For Breeders & Boarding Kennels
What's the best dog kennel for breeders?
Breeders need kennels that are:
- Scalable (can expand as breeding operation grows)
- Durable (commercial-grade construction)
- Hygienic (easy to clean and maintain)
- Separate (individual spaces for each dog/litter)
Top choices for breeders:
Chesterton kennel blocks - Modular design, expand from 2-6 blocks, professional construction, trusted by breeders across the UK
Delamere 3-bay kennels - Insulated floors, three separate bays, commercial-grade quality
Thermal dog cabins - Hygienic wipe-clean surfaces, excellent insulation, available in multi-bay configurations
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "As a breeder, I need kennels I can rely on. The Delamere system is perfect - spacious, well-insulated, and built to last. Highly recommend for anyone serious about dog care."
Can I expand my dog kennel in the future?
Yes, if you choose a modular system. Our Chesterton kennel blocks are specifically designed for expansion:
- Start with 2 blocks
- Add blocks one at a time up to 6 total
- No need to replace existing setup
- Blocks integrate seamlessly
This is perfect for growing breeding operations or boarding kennels. You invest gradually as your business expands rather than buying excess capacity upfront.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Started with 3 blocks and added another 2 last year. The modular design meant we could expand without replacing everything - saved us thousands."
Fixed systems like Aston, Delamere, and Bunbury are perfect if you know exactly how many dogs you'll house.
What's the best kennel for a boarding business?
Boarding kennels require:
- Multiple separate spaces
- Easy cleaning and maintenance
- Durable commercial-grade construction
- Good insulation for year-round comfort
- Professional appearance
Recommended for boarding kennels:
Chesterton kennel blocks - Up to 6 separate blocks, expandable, commercial construction
Delamere 3-bay system - Insulated floors, three separate bays, professional quality
Thermal cabins - Hygienic surfaces, excellent insulation, easy maintenance
Many boarding kennels start with one system and add more as their business grows.
Maintenance & Care
How do I clean a dog kennel?
Daily:
- Remove soiled bedding
- Sweep out debris and hair
- Spot-clean any mess
Weekly:
- Remove all bedding
- Sweep thoroughly
- Wash floor with pet-safe disinfectant
- Allow to dry completely
- Replace with fresh bedding
Monthly:
- Deep clean all surfaces
- Check for damage or wear
- Tighten any loose fittings
Annually:
- Apply wood preservative (wooden kennels)
- Inspect roof, floor, and structure
- Make any necessary repairs
Our kennels feature removable floors for easy cleaning. Thermal cabins have wipe-clean surfaces that make maintenance even simpler.
Do I need to treat wooden dog kennels?
Yes, annual treatment with wood preservative or stain maintains weather resistance and extends lifespan. Even pressure-treated timber benefits from additional protection.
How to treat your kennel:
- Clean and dry the kennel thoroughly
- Apply pet-safe wood preservative or stain
- Follow manufacturer's drying time before allowing dogs back in
- Reapply annually
This simple maintenance ensures your kennel lasts 20-30+ years.
Where should I position my dog kennel?
Ideal location:
- Sheltered from prevailing winds
- Partial shade (not full sun all day)
- Good drainage (no standing water)
- Level ground
- Away from property boundaries (for noise consideration)
- Visible from house (so you can check on your dog)
Avoid:
- Low-lying areas that flood
- Full sun exposure (dogs can overheat)
- Completely exposed positions
- Directly against walls (prevents airflow)
Read our Thermal Dog Cabins guide for detailed positioning advice.
Guarantees & Quality
What guarantee do Kennelstore kennels have?
All our wooden dog kennels come with 15-year anti-rot guarantees against structural failure and timber rot. This demonstrates our confidence in the quality of our pressure-treated timber and construction.
What's covered:
- Timber rot or decay
- Structural failure
- Manufacturing defects
What's not covered:
- Normal wear and tear
- Damage from misuse or accidents
- Lack of maintenance
Our 15-year guarantee is industry-leading and gives you complete peace of mind.
Why choose Kennelstore?
15-year anti-rot guarantees - Industry-leading protection on all wooden kennels
Premium materials - Pressure-treated timber, galvanised fittings, professional-grade construction
UK-based - We understand the British climate and customer needs
Expert advice - Years of experience helping customers choose the right kennel
Trusted by professionals - Breeders and boarding kennels across the UK rely on our kennels
Excellent reviews - Rated highly on Trustpilot by real customers
Still Have Questions?
We're here to help! Whether you need advice on sizing, choosing between ranges, or have specific requirements, our team has the expertise to guide you.
Explore our guides:
- Best Dog Kennels UK 2025: Expert Reviews & Buyer's Guide
- Wooden Dog Kennels UK: Complete Buyer's Guide
- Dog Kennel Blocks UK: The Complete Guide
- Thermal Dog Cabins UK: Year-Round Comfort Guide
Browse our ranges:
- Aston Wooden Dog Kennels
- Delamere 3-Bay Luxury Kennels
- Chesterton Kennel Blocks
- Bunbury 2-Bay Kennels
- Thermal Dog Cabins
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "From initial enquiry to delivery, Kennelstore were brilliant. They answered all my questions and the kennel is superb. Highly recommend!"