Guide to Dog Kennel Runs: Chain-link, Wire Mesh, Welded Wire ...

Choosing the right dog kennel run can be more complex with the numerous fencing materials. Plus, factors like the size and location of the run all play a crucial role in your pet's comfort and safety. The market is flooded with materials, each claiming to be the 'best.' The most common ones include chain links, wire mesh, and welded wire fencing. But, with so many different types of fencing out there, how will you know which is the best for your dog's specific needs? We aim to simplify this process and ultimately lead you to a decision you and your dog will be happy with.

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A Guide to Kennel Runs

Let's begin with one of the most fundamental aspects of a large dog kennel run — the size. Many pet owners often underestimate the importance of size when selecting a kennel, potentially leading to a stressful environment for their pets. An appropriately sized kennel should provide enough room for your dog to move freely and stretch out. In a well-sized kennel, your dog should be able to stand, sit, lie down, and turn around easily. If your dog can not perform these basic movements without feeling cramped, it could lead to anxiety and a sense of confinement. While selecting a kennel, consider your pet's breed and age. A large breed will require more space than a smaller one, and a puppy will grow, needing more room as it matures.

Kennels and runs are pivotal in a dog's life, serving as more than an enclosure. They act as a haven, a private space, and an interactive area where your dog can play, rest, and unwind. Some pet owners may argue that their dog can roam freely in a yard, negating the need for a large dog kennel. A yard can not provide the same sense of security and ownership that a kennel and run can offer. Apart from providing a sanctuary for your dog, kennels are also practical for pet owners. They are a great way to keep your dogs safe when you're not at home or during events where the presence of a dog might not be appropriate. Additionally, a well-placed kennel offers your dog shelter from adverse weather conditions. It shields your pet from the hot summer sun, driving rain, or biting cold winds, providing a safe and comfortable spot regardless of the weather.

Benefits Of A Dog Run

A dog run offers multiple advantages, both for your furry friend and you. A well-designed dog run fosters a healthy, happy pet by blending security, freedom, and convenience with care. Here are a few benefits of a dog run. 

Keep Your Dog Out Of The Way

A dog run is not merely about confining your pet; it is about ensuring their safety during construction or landscaping. It creates a buffer zone, keeping your dog away from any potential harm, whether it is dangerous tools, harmful chemicals, or simply the commotion. It is worth noting that a dog run is not only useful during home renovations. It is beneficial anytime there is a situation that could cause anxiety or pose a threat to your pet. For example, during a thunderstorm, a dog run can provide a secure, familiar space that might help soothe your pet's anxiety.

Convenience During Events

Dog runs also offer significant convenience for pet owners. Let's consider you are throwing a party, a barbecue, or a family gathering. While your dog might be the life of the party for some, not everyone is comfortable around dogs. Some might have allergies, fear, or are simply uncomfortable around dogs, especially children or elderly family members. In such situations, a dog run provides a convenient solution. It allows your pet to be in the vicinity, enjoying the fresh air and outdoor stimuli, while also keeping your guests comfortable.

Out In The Fresh Air

One of the major perks of a dog run is the opportunity it provides for your pet to enjoy the outdoors. Dogs, like humans, need their fair share of vitamin D. In a dog run, your pet can soak up the sun, watch birds, or simply enjoy the breeze on a hot day while in a secure environment. This enhances their physical health and contributes to their mental well-being.

Designed To Suit Your Dog

Dog runs are highly customizable spaces that cater to your dog's preferences. You can put items like your dog’s favorite toy, bed, or blanket in the kennel and run so they feel more at home. The goal is to create a space where your dog feels comfortable and happy. Adding familiar objects or tailoring the run to suit your dog's behavior can help ensure your dog sees this space as a positive environment rather than a restrictive one.

Safety First

Let's face it; dogs are natural explorers. They are intrigued by the world around them and driven by instincts that sometimes land them in trouble. They might eat something they should not dig up your newly planted flowers or even find a way to escape from your yard. A dog run is a confined, safe space where your dog can spend time outdoors when you can not keep a watchful eye on them. It helps curb their destructive behavior by limiting their access to things they should not have while giving them freedom. It is a win-win for both dogs and their owners.

Fencing Types

Dog kennel run fencing has three main types: chain-link, wire mesh, and welded wire. Each has its own characteristics that make it more suitable for certain applications than others. Here, we will dive into the details of each type to help you determine the most suitable for your pet's needs.

Chain-link

Chain-link fencing is one of the most common types used for large dog kennels. It is popular due to its durability, affordability, and ability to withstand even the most enthusiastic dogs. Chain-link fences are made of interwoven steel wires, creating a strong barrier that most dogs cannot break or chew through. This type of fencing is also transparent, allowing your dog to see out and you to see in, facilitating easy supervision of your pet's activities.

While chain-link is robust, it can lead to injuries if your dog is prone to jumping or climbing, as their paws or collars may get stuck in the mesh. Also, the larger gaps in chain-link fencing may allow smaller critters like squirrels or rodents to enter the kennel, which could be a problem for some dogs.

Wire Mesh

Wire mesh fencing is another good option for dog kennel runs. It is made from wires woven together to form a tight mesh, creating a solid barrier that is difficult for dogs to penetrate. Wire mesh fencing is smaller than chain-link fencing, which reduces the risk of paw or collar entrapment and prevents smaller critters from getting in.

On the downside, wire mesh fences may be less durable than chain-link fences and could get damaged over time due to weather conditions or the weight of a larger dog leaning against it. Additionally, because wire mesh is not as see-through as chain-link, it could make your pet feel more enclosed or restricted.

Welded Wire

Welded wire fencing is becoming increasingly popular for dog runs due to its robustness and safety. This type of fencing consists of steel wires welded together at every intersection, creating an extremely durable grid and resistance to damage. The strength of welded wire fences makes them an excellent choice for large or energetic dogs that might cause damage to lighter materials.

Welded wire fencing also reduces the risk of injury as there are no large gaps for paws or collars to get caught. Moreover, the holes in welded wire fences are small enough to keep out most critters yet large enough to give your pet a clear view of the outside world.

The primary disadvantage of welded wire fences is their cost, which tends to be higher than chain-link or wire mesh. However, considering their durability and safety, many dog owners find the investment worthwhile.

Create a Comfortable Home by Choosing the Right Kennel With a Run

The good & bad about chainlink

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Post by isuhunter » Tue Mar 13, 2:19 pm

The company is the world’s best chain link dog kennel supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.

With the nice weather here I'm looking at building my dog kennel/run. Curious what everyones thoughts are, go with welded wire or is galvenized chainlink good enough?

Re: The good & bad about chainlink

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Post by uplandguide » Tue Mar 13, 2:35 pm

I like welded wire, but I have both... I used 1/2" wide black industrial zip ties to attach every chain link square to bottom bar instead of every three or four squares like they come from factory. This solved all problems for me with dogs getting their nose under and prying up.. Good Luck Mcshane's Bringing on another Chance "Hattie" NA PR 1

Sire : DC Gambles Sam Man MH UT PR1
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Jesse

Re: The good & bad about chainlink

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Post by Fireside » Tue Mar 13, 4:29 pm

uplandguide wrote:I like welded wire, but I have both... I used 1/2" wide black industrial zip ties to attach every chain link square to bottom bar instead of every three or four squares like they come from factory. This solved all problems for me with dogs getting their nose under and prying up.. Good Luck

Be sure to tie it down every square. Galvanized can be pretty rough and a few dogs will rub their noses or ears on it and create sores. My chain link runs are over 25 years old now and are still in pretty darn good condition.

Re: The good & bad about chainlink

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Post by AzDoggin » Tue Mar 13, 6:23 pm

I have chainlink too. Cheap and available, I guess.

I have also had to tie down every square along the bottoms and half way up all sides. If you leave any slack, the dog can get a foot caught in there...or at minimum it gives them hope of escape and something to keep messing with. Some dogs will bounce off the chain link and can distort it a little, so the more it's tied around all edges, the less it will bend and distort.

Chainlink is ugly as heck, IMO. I like welded wire best, also. If $$ is no object, get one of these: http://www.priefert.com/ProductDetails/ ... 237/kk Our local Home Depot has an 8x10 welded wire with 2x2 steel tube corner posts, powder coated for $500 some...

Re: The good & bad about chainlink

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Post by isuhunter » Tue Mar 13, 6:45 pm

I'd love to get the prefierts but they cost a fortune. Chainlink is popping up on craigslist pretty often and is much more affordable. I'm going to look into TSC, Blains, Menards, HD, and Lowes and see if they have any afforadble welded wire kennels. I'm going to put the kennel on the North side of the garage and probably on a raised deck made of recycled plastic decking. I was thinking 6' by 18' long. What do you guys think of those dimensions. Garage is 25' wide

Can one of you guys post a picture of how you secure every square, I want to make sure I understand you correctly.

Re: The good & bad about chainlink

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Post by AzDoggin » Tue Mar 13, 7:14 pm

Sorry - limited tech skills but I'll do what I can.

6 by 18 would be excellent! It would give the dog some good room to move.

By "every square" we just mean "every possible link point" to the bottom beam (and in my case the side beams).

I used these aluminum ties. http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/sto ... -



Takes awhile. You are putting on a tie about every 2-3 inches along the bottom of the chain panel, wiring the panel to the bottom beam of the fence (at the bottom of each "square" (or diamond??). I put the beam on the inside (dog side) of the kennel, and wired the panel tight down on the outside. No way a dog could get a paw through there and there's nothing for the dog to chew on, and no sharp edges - (tie joints face out).

Re: The good & bad about chainlink

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Post by DonF » Tue Mar 13, 7:51 pm

There is a down side to welded wire, if it the one your talking about. The welds won't hold up well with the dog jumping on it. They have at the Co-Op in Madras the same stuff but the joints are tied together with wire. I think they call it 2x4 pasture fencing. Looks just the same except for one is welded and one is not. The stuff is more expensive that the welded stuff, about double. If it were me and I could afford it, I'd go with chain link, stronger still. On my two small runs, I used hog wire fencing. Don't think it's any better than any other stuff but it was less expensive and my dog's don't spend a lot of kennel time any way. The hog wire fencing is a stronger gauge of wire but not as strong as chain link. I pity the man that has never been loved by a dog!

Re: The good & bad about chainlink

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Post by jgf@gratiot » Tue Mar 13, 8:15 pm

http://tkproductsllc.com/ go check out this site tk products is building top quality kennels that are welded wire and are one of the only kennel manufactures out there with a warranty. They are up there with Preifert quality at a much more affordable price let me know if I can be of assistance

Re: The good & bad about chainlink

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Post by birddog » Tue Mar 13, 8:48 pm

We have the 1 1/4 - 1 1/2 inch chain link not the large size , that way no legs or noses can get thru the fence......safer. The second kick from a mule is of very little educational value - from Wing and Shot.

Hunters Pale Rider

Hunters Branch Jalapeno

Re: The good & bad about chainlink

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Post by DonF » Tue Mar 13, 8:55 pm

jgf@gratiot wrote:http://tkproductsllc.com/ go check out this site tk products is building top quality kennels that are welded wire and are one of the only kennel manufactures out there with a warranty. They are up there with Preifert quality at a much more affordable price let me know if I can be of assistance

I could go for that. It's a lot heavier wire than the stuff we have around here. Probably hold the welds a lot better. I pity the man that has never been loved by a dog!

Re: The good & bad about chainlink

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Post by AzDoggin » Tue Mar 13, 9:04 pm

birddog wrote:We have the 1 1/4 - 1 1/2 inch chain link not the large size , that way no legs or noses can get thru the fence......safer.

Smaller squares would be a lot better. I don't think I've ever seen any...

Re: The good & bad about chainlink

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Post by RoostersMom » Tue Mar 13, 9:25 pm

Also, the north side will be colder, wetter, and north winds will come in a blow into the houses - so be sure if that's where it has to go, that you have good double doorways to block any wind from the north.

Re: The good & bad about chainlink

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Post by RayGubernat » Tue Mar 13, 9:44 pm

My kennels have been made of 9 ga. chainlink. In the last thirty years I have not had a dog escape or get a foot caught or any such. I am not saying it cannot happen but it has not happened to me so far. When i assemble the panels I have the cut ends next to the ground. The dogs do not challenge them more than once... or twice if they are really dumb. For puppies,I put boards(1 X6) down around the bottom just in case, but remove them once the pups are older.

I have had a few dogs that tried to gnaw their way out when they were left behind, and aside from some silver back teeth there were no ill effects...certainly the wire showed no signs of the attempts.

I have no doubt that 11 1/2 or lighter chainlink might not fare so well, but the 9 ga. wire really does hold up. The other thing is that if you use 9 ga wire, the fabricator must use the thicker wall tubing as well, so the whole assembly is heavier duty.

Currently, some of my kennel panels are around 20 years old and doing just fine. The oldest of the panels(nearly 30 years old) were getting rusted and nasty and have been converted into roof sections for the intact females.

I do agree if price is no object, that the Priefert product is very much top of the line. However, with any metal fencing, you are well advised to place an inert barrier(plastic) between the ground or the cement and the metal legs to delay and to minimize the inevitable rustout. It will add literally years to the life of the kennel panel.

For my round tube legs I use a female/female schedule 40 fitting to pick the end up off the ground about an inch or so. That allows any rain to drain out and any urine or wet from washing down the concrete, to drain and dry out. Obviously, if metal is dry it won't rust. I also touch up any spots I see, about once a year, with rust converter and then a coating of spray on cold zinc or aluminum paint.

RayG
RayG

Re: The good & bad about chainlink

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Post by gotpointers » Wed Mar 14, 6:32 am

The home depot welded wire was destroyed very quicky by my labradors. The other wire mentioned is called horse fence and has every joint wrapped and does hold up well. Also the hog panels which have 4x4 squares are nice and sell for 45 for a 20 ft panel in my area. I have gone to heavy guage chainlink for my latest kennel addition. Its cheaper to buy a 10. Lb spool of 12 gauge steel wire and make your own ties to the length you need. I used a spiral pattern out of a long strand around the bottom of the chainlink to eliminate having to tie each square. Also welded 1 3/8 tube to make the frame for my panels so i can move my kennels to the south side of the barn for winter and north for summer.

Re: The good & bad about chainlink

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Post by markj » Wed Mar 14, 12:20 pm

The behlen kennels are affordable at like 399 per and are heavy welded wire. They are to be found at baumgars and TSC. http://www.perfectpedigrees.com/4genview.php?id=
http://www.perfectpedigrees.com/4genview.php?id=
"If there are no dogs in Heaven,
then when I die I want to go
where they went."
Will Rogers, -

Re: The good & bad about chainlink

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Post by birddog » Wed Mar 14, 1:25 pm

RayGubernat wrote:My kennels have been made of 9 ga. chainlink. In the last thirty years I have not had a dog escape or get a foot caught or any such. I am not saying it cannot happen but it has not happened to me so far.

RayG
RayG

More in a commercial operation or where dogs that don't know each other may be kenneled next to each other.....I know of one dog with broken leg from slipping thru the fence while engaged with the dog next to it, I know of another female that had severe lower jaw injuries when her kennel mate grabbed her after she put her snout thru the fence......

Not an everyday occurrence but anything can happen.

Azdoggin- you can get chain link in hole sizes from 1 inch to 4 inch...... The second kick from a mule is of very little educational value - from Wing and Shot.

Hunters Pale Rider

Hunters Branch Jalapeno

Re: The good & bad about chainlink

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Post by AzDoggin » Wed Mar 14, 2:36 pm

birddog wrote: Azdoggin- you can get chain link in hole sizes from 1 inch to 4 inch......

Thanks, Charlie, I'll have to look into it. I got an 8x16 "larger square" setup off Craigslist CHEAP. I'll use the old frame and the $$ I saved to get some new chain link.

Re: The good & bad about chainlink

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Post by Chukar12 » Wed Mar 14, 2:55 pm

Contact us to discuss your requirements of dog crate manufacturers. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

For those of you asking about securing chain link to the kennel frame: I have taken a couple of older kennels and made them secure by cutting lengths of 3/8 rebar to the dimensions of the panel and threading them through the chain link and then using hose clamps around the frame and the rebar to cinch it down every 4' or so.