The 15 Best Outdoor Dog Kennels of 2023

If you are planning to keep your dog outdoors and do not have a fence or any other kind of enclosure for your backyard, you need to make sure you have the best outdoor dog kennel.

Outdoor kennels are often large dog shelters that give the dog freedom to enjoy the outdoor space while staying away from potential danger. They are typically made from wood, metal, or canvas. Besides providing play space, these enclosures work well for dog management when you have guests or want to clean the house.

Additionally, kennels can allow your dog to exercise if the model you have is spacious enough for the dog to move around and play. If you are on the hunt for a good one, here we help narrow down your choices with a review of top models and buying guide.

7 Best Outdoor Dog Kennels: Review

1. Best Overall: PawHut Large Outdoor Dog Kennel

• Dimensions (H x W x L): 6 x 4 x 8 ft.
• Materials: Galvanized steel
• Number of Doors: 2
• Weight: 115.08 pounds

PawHut Outdoor Dog Kennel takes our top overall spot as it is spacious, well-built, safe, and secure for your pet. It is a 6-foot high kennel that is 8-foot long and 4-foot wide to ensure the dog gets plenty of room for playing and exercising. The space is even expandable by connecting more kennels.

When it comes to construction, this kennel never disappoints thanks to a heavy-duty galvanized steel frame that ensures many years of excellent service without needing any maintenance.

This kennel includes a UV-resistant top cover to keep the elements out for maximum dog comfort. Additionally, there is a safe and secure lock for easier dog containment.

With a gross weight of around 115.08 pounds, this kennel seems quite heavy, but because it is easy to take apart and assemble, you should not have any difficulties with transport.

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2. Best Budget: Ruff 'N Ruffus Portable Foldable Pet Playpen

• Dimensions (H x W x L): 48 x 48 x 23.5 inches
• Materials: Nylon
• Number of Doors: 1
• Weight: 4.55 pounds

As a pet owner shopping for a more budget-friendly dog kennel, the Ruff 'N Ruffus Pet Playpen is a fantastic choice. Besides being a budget option, it is also our best portable outdoor dog kennel as you can easily fold and carry it to different locations.

The shelter includes a removable zippered top that makes it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. Also, it has a reinforced floor mat for extra safety and does not require any assembly. Additionally, the manufacturer provides a carry case and collapsible dog bowl as bonuses.

Dogs seem to chew through the material with ease, and this kennel is not for heavy-duty use, but for occasional use on your travels, it is still perfect.

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3. Best Small Kennel: SmithBuilt Heavy Duty Dog Crate Cage

• Dimensions (H x W x L): 29 x 24 x 36 inches
• Materials: Steel
• Number of Doors: 2
• Weight: 63 pounds

SmithBuilt Dog Crate Cage is our best small outdoor dog kennel, and at just 29 inches high and 24 inches wide, it is a perfect choice for small breeds. What's more, it is a portable dog crate with rolling wheels for easy mobility.

When it comes to construction, the shelter uses premium-grade steel, which is more heavy-duty and durable. You can also be confident it will not rust, corrode or peel as there is a multilayer hammer-tone coating. Moreover, this is a simple dog cage to clean thanks to the removable pan.

The locks do not also seem very effective at keeping the dog locked, but you can always replace them with better aftermarket ones if you want.

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4. Best with Cover: Lucky Dog Pet Resort

• Dimensions (H x W x L): 4.6 x 4 x 4 ft.
• Materials: Stainless steel
• Number of Doors: 1
• Weight: 49.8 pounds

Pet owners looking for the best outdoor dog kennel with cover should give the Lucky Dog Pet Resort a try. It comes with a heavy-duty and snug-fitting cover that provides maximum protection from UV rays, rain, ripping, cracking, and fading.

The frame also does not disappoint as it is commercial-grade stainless steel with fully welded joints and a long-lasting powder coating. Better still, you can set up this kennel easily in just a few minutes, and it is super easy to clean, thanks to the 1.5-inch raised legs.

Although the instructions are not very good, this does not affect the ease of assembly. Also, the missing parts' complaints are more about improper shipping and do not make the kennel less useful.

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5. Best Playpen: Yaheetech Heavy Duty Pet Playpen

• Dimensions (H x W x L): 40 x 32.7 x 96.1 inches
• Materials: Iron
• Number of Doors: 1
• Weight: 47.1 pounds

With more spacious and open space, the Yaheetech Pet Playpen is an ideal kennel for those looking for a secure place for their pups to play both indoors and outdoors. What's more, it has a 2-piece J-shaped latch both for dual security.

Storage and transport should be super easy with this kennel as it is easily foldable into a compact size. Furthermore, it does not require any tools to assemble and has a sturdy metal frame for maximum durability.

Iron is not rustproof, but it has a good finish coat that should prevent rust long enough, and you can always coat or repaint it in the future if there is a sign of rust.

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6. Best Pet Gazebo: Advantek Outdoor Metal Dog Kennel

• Dimensions (H x W x L): 60 x 60 x 60 inches
• Materials: Steel, polyethylene
• Number of Doors: 1
• Weight: 55.5 pounds

With a more luxurious pet gazebo like the Advantek Metal Dog Kennel, you can be sure your pup will have a nice and comfortable place to play and enjoy the great outdoors. Additionally, it has a highly protective reversible cover that keeps the elements out.

Assembly is more straightforward for this galvanized steel kennel as it snaps into place quickly without having to use any tools. Since it is also easy to take apart and comes in a more compact size, you can easily pack and carry the kennel for use in different locations.

The lock on the door is low-quality, but if you do not have a very aggressive dog, it should still be useful at containing it.

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7. Best Chain-Link: Midwest Homes for Pets K9 Dog Kennel

• Dimensions (H x W x L): 4 x 4 x 6 ft.
• Materials: Galvanized steel
• Number of Doors: 1
• Weight: 76 pounds

Chain-link outdoor kennels like the Midwest Homes for PetsKennelare some of the toughest you can get anywhere. Besides the chain-link build, this one has a strong galvanized steel frame to make it almost indestructible.

It is also one of the largest on our outdoor dog kennel review as it is 6 feet long and 4 feet wide, which ensures the pet gets adequate space. Additionally, the kennel has a spacious full entry door with a convenient one-handed door latch. What's more, it has a patented design with interlocking tubes and rounded corners for easy setup and extra stability.

The provided zip ties are thin plastic, but they still hold up well for long. Also, the cover screen is relatively small. However, it is still effective at keeping the interior cool.

Other Good Recommendations

8. Parkland Pet Portable Foldable Playpen

Whether you are looking for a playpen or exercise kennel for your pet, the Parkland Pet Portable Playpen is a great choice, and it works well both indoors and outdoors. Also, it is an easy to set up model with no assembly needed.

The foldable and lightweight design as it is just 3.99 pounds makes this model easy to carry around, and it also includes a zippered top and door for easy access.

Key Features

• Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
• Easy setup with no assembly needed
• Zippered top for easy access
• Lightweight but strong

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9. Lucky Dog Uptown Welded Wire Outdoor Dog Kennel

Pet owners on the lookout for the best dog kennel with top, the Lucky Dog Outdoor Dog Kennel is another excellent option. This cover is well-built, waterproof, and UV-resistant to protect against the elements and ensure it never fades.

The frame is also heavy-duty thanks to the welded steel material that provides a long service life. What's more, the kennel has 1.5-inch raised legs that allow for easy access when cleaning, and the panels are pre-assembled for simple set up.

Key Features

• Waterproof and UV-resistant cover
• Heavy-duty steel frame
• Raised legs for easy cleaning
• Pre-assembled panels for easy setup

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10. BestPet Dog Crate Pet Kennel

The BestPet Dog Crate Pet Kennel measures 7.5 feet long and 5 feet high, making it one of the most spacious options on our list. All that space ensures the pet has enough room to rest and play. Better still, it is more secure with high-quality locks.

When you buy the kennel, you get a heavy-duty and waterproof cover that helps keep the elements out. Additionally, it is well-built with high-tensile strength wire and a steel frame. Pet owners also love that it takes little effort and time to assemble.

Key Features

• Larger and more secure space
• Heavy-duty waterproof cover
• High tensile-strength wire
• Simple assembly in minutes

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11. Ferplast Dog Kennel

With the anti-shock robust plastic construction, the Ferplast Dog Kennel is a UV-resistant and waterproof dog shelter that ensures you get many years of service. Better yet, it is super easy to assemble without having to use any tools.

There is adequate ventilation for your pup in this shelter, thanks to the larger entryway and the built-in ventilation system. Pet owners also love the unique fold-out porch that gives the dog some extra living space.

Key Features

• UV-resistant and waterproof plastic material
• Easy tool-free assembly
• Adequate ventilation with large entryway
• Fold-out porch provides extra living space

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12. Coziwow Heavy Duty Outdoor Dog Kennel

The commercial-grade steel structure makes the Coziwow Outdoor Dog Kennel a sturdier and more durable shelter that can take a lot of abuse. Better still, it has a black powder-coated finish for rust and corrosion resistance.

The lockable gate with a unique latch, which is impossible for pets to open independently, assures the dog's safety and security. Also, there is a nice canopy for the top that fits perfectly and is UV-resistant. What's more, the kennel has some raised legs for better stability and makes cleaning easier.

Key Features

• Sturdy commercial-grade steel construction
• Safe lockable gate
• UV-resistant and well-fitting canopy
• Raised legs for stability and easy cleaning

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13. Furuisen Heavy Duty Dog Crate

Dog crates like Furuisen Heavy Duty Dog Crate are always perfect when you want something you can use to move the dog with ease. This convenient dog shelter has some 360-degree rotating and locking wheels that make moving it a breeze.

Security is also ensured by the double reinforced locks that make dog escapes almost impossible. When it comes to construction, the reinforced carbon steel material guarantees a long service life. Entry and exit are effortless with the double doors, which, together with the removable trays, make cleaning easy.

Key Features

• 360-degree rotating and lockable wheels
• Double reinforced locks for extra security
• Reinforced carbon steel construction
• Removable slide-out tray for easy cleaning

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14. Houseables Dog Kennel

Safety and durability should be the least of your worries with the Houseables Dog Kennel as it is a welded wire kennel that uses heavy-gauge wire grating for long service life. The construction also helps make this a more stable shelter.

With the parts pre-assembled, the setup is super easy, and you never have to use any tools. Also, there is a waterproof tarp that provides extra protection from the elements. When it comes to cleaning, the 1.5-inch raised base ensures you have an easy time.

Key Features

• Safe, stable and durable welded construction
• Pre-assembled parts for pain-free setup
• Raised base for simple cleanup
• Waterproof tarp for extra protection

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15. Neocraft My Pet Companion Dog Kennel

When you want you or your kids to enjoy playing with your pup, a double door kennel such as the Neocraft My Pet Companion Dog Kennel is an excellent choice as it ensures easy access. It is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use thanks to the compact design and sturdy steel build.

Additionally, pet owners love that it takes little effort to assemble with the high-quality nylon connectors. What's more, the kennel is expandable when you need more space and comes with an excellent, weather-resistant cover.

Key Features

• Double doors for easy access
• High-quality nylon connectors ensure easy setup
• Expandable design for convenience
• Weather-resistant cover
• Sturdy steel construction

How to Buy the Best Outdoor Dog Kennels

1. Types of Outdoor Dog Kennels

As you try to figure out the best outside dog kennel to buy for your canine, one of the first decisions you need to make is the type to purchase, and here you have three main options.

Dog Crate Kennels

These have the most uncomplicated design of the three types, and they are often either aluminum or plastic, but there are still a few fabric crates out there. Dog crates are ideal for training dogs and transporting them. They come in different sizes and configurations for maximum dog comfort and security.

Dog Breeding Kennels

As the name suggests, this kennel type is for breeding dogs, and they provide enough facilities for this. In most instances, this means they ensure you have enough and secure space to keep the pets separated. Breeding kennels are ideal for indoor and outdoor use, and you can get them in various configurations to suit your needs.

Dog Boarding Kennels

Boarding kennels are for housing the dog when the owner is not around and are typically for outdoor use. They are often larger and made with heavy-duty material like welded wire and chain link. These kennels can act as temporary dog caretakers to give you peace of mind when you have to leave your pup unattended for some time.

2. Materials

Once you figure out the type you prefer, another crucial element is to decide the material. The kennel's material is vital as it affects the durability and both the dog's safety and security.

Like most other dog shelter types, the outdoor kennels have a wide variety of materials, from different metal and wood types to plastics.

For the metal ones, chain-link panels are the most common options. Chain-link kennels like the Midwest Homes for Pets Kennel have a thick and sturdy material that dogs find impossible to chew through and are highly durable.

On the other hand, the wooden ones are not as durable as metal kennels since many dogs enjoy chewing the wood, but they are often more aesthetically pleasing.

3. Size

Typically, you want to give the dog as much space as possible to enjoy the outdoors. Therefore, the size of the kennel matters a lot, and the larger, the better.

That said, the right kennel size for your pet largely depends on its size. For those with large canines, you need a larger one to ensure the dog has enough space. A simple rule of thumb is always to go for something that is at least three times your pet's size.

But, how you intend to use the kennel also matters. For example, some pet owners prefer to have a dog house inside the kennel, meaning they will need to get even larger ones to allow for this.

4. Covered Roof

A roof cover like what you get on the PawHut Outdoor Dog Kennel provides extra protection from the elements as it is effective at keeping the rain out and ensuring you do not expose the pet to direct sun.

Besides just having a roof, you also need to choose the right type, and the most common options are sloping and flat roofs. Additionally, make sure it is easy to secure and take apart when you have to dismantle the kennel.

5. Weather Resistant

Since the kennel is outdoors most of the time, you have to make sure it is built to withstand the elements. While a good roof is vital for this, there are still many other things to consider ensuring weather resistance.

The kennel needs to be sturdy enough when assembled to ensure it is not blown away or tumbled over by the wind. Also, it needs to have a corrosion and rust-resistant surface to ensure water does not damage it. Additionally, a UV-resistant surface is fantastic as it ensures the dog kennel does not fade quickly or get ruined by the sun.

6. Locking System

For a kennel to be secure enough, it needs to have a suitable locking mechanism. Remember that many dog breeds tend to be quite smart and can quickly escape simple locking systems.

A locking system that includes secure slide-bolt latches is often more challenging for the dog to escape, no matter its size and smartness. Before settling on any model, you need to research the locking mechanism to determine how effective it is at preventing dog escapes.

7. Floor Type

Since the floor is where the pet rests, it is an essential factor that you should not overlook as you decide what to buy. Here you want something that is as comfortable as possible and maintains optimal temperature even in inclement weather.

Besides comfort, the right floor type is vital for pups that like to dig as it prevents them from doing it. Wood or plastic planks are some of the most common floor types. What's more, you can still make a custom floor for the kennel using your preferred material.

Q&A

Are Outdoor Dog Kennels Safe for Your Dog?

A: Yes, kennels tend to be safe enough for most dogs. However, this often depends on the particular one you have. What you choose should not have any dangerous materials or design aspects. It should also be designed to ensure maximum air circulation and protect rain, sun, and other elements.

Will Big Dog Kennels Work If I Have a Small Puppy?

A: A small puppy eventually grows up, and so even if you buy a big kennel, it should be good enough for the pup in just a few months. Buying a big dog kennel for a puppy can be a great idea as it eliminates the need to get a new one once the pup grows big.

Can I Leave My Dog In His Outdoor Dog Kennel Alone?

A: Yes, provided the kennel is safe and secure enough, there is no problem leaving the dog inside on his own. However, it is essential to make sure it has food and water available and is not exposed to the elements inside the kennel.

Buy on Etsy

PawHut Large Outdoor Dog Kennel Galvanized Steel Fence with UV-Resistant Oxford Cloth - Walmart Link

HITTITE Large Dog Kennel, Outdoor Dog Kennel, Anti-Rust Steel Welded Wire Outdoor Pet - Walmart Link

LEISU Action Club Heavy Duty Dog Cage Outdoor Pet Playpen Wire Kennel with - Walmart Link

Dog Pen Dog Playpen House Heavy Duty Outdoor Metal Galvanized Welded Pet Crate Kennel - Walmart Link

VIVOHOME Heavy Duty Foldable Metal Indoor Outdoor Exercise Pet Fence Barrier Playpen - Walmart Link

Zampa Portable Foldable Pet playpen Exercise Pen Kennel + Carrying Case for Larges Dogs - Walmart Link

FXW Dog Playpen Outdoor, 8/16/24/32 Panels Dog Pen Indoor 32" Height Dog Fence Exercise - Walmart Link

PawHut Outdoor Dog Kennel - Walmart Link

the Ruff 'N Ruffus Pet Playpen - Walmart Link

SmithBuilt Dog Crate Cage - Walmart Link

the Lucky Dog Pet Resort - Walmart Link

the Yaheetech Pet Playpen - Walmart Link

the Advantek Metal Dog Kennel - Walmart Link

the Midwest Homes for PetsKennel - Walmart Link

the Parkland Pet Portable Playpen - Walmart Link

the Lucky Dog Outdoor Dog Kennel - Walmart Link

The BestPet Dog Crate Pet Kennel - Walmart Link

the Ferplast Dog Kennel - Walmart Link

the Coziwow Outdoor Dog Kennel - Walmart Link

Furuisen Heavy Duty Dog Crate - Walmart Link

the Houseables Dog Kennel - Walmart Link

the Neocraft My Pet Companion Dog Kennel - Walmart Link

the Midwest Homes for Pets Kennel - Walmart Link

the PawHut Outdoor Dog Kennel - Walmart Link

Buy on eBay

PawHut Large Outdoor Dog Kennel Galvanized Steel Fence with UV-Resistant Oxford Cloth - eBay Link

HITTITE Large Dog Kennel, Outdoor Dog Kennel, Anti-Rust Steel Welded Wire Outdoor Pet - eBay Link

LEISU Action Club Heavy Duty Dog Cage Outdoor Pet Playpen Wire Kennel with - eBay Link

Dog Pen Dog Playpen House Heavy Duty Outdoor Metal Galvanized Welded Pet Crate Kennel - eBay Link

VIVOHOME Heavy Duty Foldable Metal Indoor Outdoor Exercise Pet Fence Barrier Playpen - eBay Link

Zampa Portable Foldable Pet playpen Exercise Pen Kennel + Carrying Case for Larges Dogs - eBay Link

FXW Dog Playpen Outdoor, 8/16/24/32 Panels Dog Pen Indoor 32" Height Dog Fence Exercise - eBay Link

PawHut Outdoor Dog Kennel - eBay Link

the Ruff 'N Ruffus Pet Playpen - eBay Link

SmithBuilt Dog Crate Cage - eBay Link

the Lucky Dog Pet Resort - eBay Link

the Yaheetech Pet Playpen - eBay Link

the Advantek Metal Dog Kennel - eBay Link

the Midwest Homes for PetsKennel - eBay Link

the Parkland Pet Portable Playpen - eBay Link

the Lucky Dog Outdoor Dog Kennel - eBay Link

The BestPet Dog Crate Pet Kennel - eBay Link

the Ferplast Dog Kennel - eBay Link

the Coziwow Outdoor Dog Kennel - eBay Link

Furuisen Heavy Duty Dog Crate - eBay Link

the Houseables Dog Kennel - eBay Link

the Neocraft My Pet Companion Dog Kennel - eBay Link

the Midwest Homes for Pets Kennel - eBay Link

the PawHut Outdoor Dog Kennel - eBay Link

Conclusion

Outdoor dog kennels provide a safe and secure space for your pet to play and rest while enjoying the fresh outdoor air. To ensure it gets a good experience, make sure you get the best outdoor dog kennel, which should now be effortless with all our recommendations above.

However, the PawHut Outdoor Dog Kennel is our best overall model and top recommendation. This dog shelter is more spacious, has a heavy-duty built, includes a cover, and is expandable.

But, for the pet parents that prefer something more budget-friendly, the Ruff 'N Ruffus Pet Playpen should work fine.