DIY Projects for Home Dog Training Kennel

Create Your Own Dog Training Platforms and Tables

If you love DIY projects as much as I do, especially for your home dog training kennel, you're in for a treat! DIY dog training platforms and tables can serve a multitude of purposes, including training, grooming, fitness, and hierarchy control for multi-dog homes. They are an excellent choice for multi-dog pet homes, breeders, and fellow trainers, as they allow you to build more equipment at a less expensive rate than purchasing ready-made items. Additionally, they are perfect for outdoor training use, as they are generally weather-resistant and hold up well.

However, a word of caution when it comes to wood products built for dogs: dogs can easily chew up wood. If you have a dog that tends to chew on your platforms, consider metal construction. For example, the Plyobox Set of 4 with non-skid rubber tops is a fantastic option, as it is ready-made and highly durable. This set is what I personally use in my dog’s individual outdoor kennels, and it has proven to be extremely reliable.

The Box Style Platform

One popular design for a DIY dog training platform is the wood box style. This style is quite simple to build and highly functional. The design consists of four equal sides with a top, but the bottom remains open. For the best results, use 3/4-inch-thick plywood. The average dimensions for these platforms are either 20x20 inches square or 24x24 inches square.

You might have seen a similar design from Rogue Fitness, which creates and sells ready-to-use wood plyoboxes for fitness training. These boxes are labeled "Rogue" in their picture and video montages. While these ready-made boxes are convenient, building your own can be just as effective and satisfying.

The Four-Post Leg Style Platform

Another DIY option is the four-post leg style platform made of wood. This design is slightly more complex but offers great stability and versatility. You can customize the height and dimensions to suit your specific needs. Below, you will find a step-by-step guide on how to build this type of platform:

Materials Needed

• Four wooden posts (2x4s or 4x4s)
• Plywood (3/4 inch thick)
• Screws or nails
• Wood glue
• Non-skid rubber mat (optional)

Instructions

1. Cut the wooden posts to your desired height for the platform.
2. Cut the plywood to your desired dimensions for the top surface (e.g., 20x20 inches or 24x24 inches).
3. Attach the plywood to the tops of the wooden posts using screws or nails. Apply wood glue for added stability.
4. If desired, attach a non-skid rubber mat to the top surface to prevent your dog from slipping.

I like mine for bathing and brushing use. No back aches for me and nice clean dog!

The Indestructible Metal Stool

Lastly, I found an innovative solution at a friend’s house (thank you Sean and Lesli! ): wheels that were welded together to form a sturdy base. This base was then painted hunter green, and a piece of plywood was placed in the center to create a seating platform. My dog sits on this extremely well-built metal indestructible stool, which serves as the perfect platform for sitting.

Materials Needed

• Metal wheels
• Welding equipment
• Paint (optional)
• Plywood (3/4 inch thick)

Instructions

1. Weld the metal wheels together to create a stable base.
2. Paint the base if desired for aesthetic purposes.
3. Cut the plywood to fit securely in the center of the base.
4. Attach the plywood to the base using screws or welding, ensuring it is secure and stable.

Benefits of DIY Dog Training Platforms and Tables

Creating your own dog training platforms and tables offers numerous benefits:

• Cost-Effective: Building your own equipment is generally less expensive than purchasing ready-made items, allowing you to allocate your budget to other essential supplies or projects.
• Customization: DIY projects allow you to customize the dimensions, materials, and design to suit your specific needs and preferences.
• Durability: By selecting high-quality materials and constructing the platforms yourself, you can ensure they are built to withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
• Creativity: Engaging in DIY projects allows you to unleash your creativity and develop unique solutions for your dog training needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, DIY dog training platforms and tables are a fantastic addition to any home dog training kennel. Whether you opt for the box style, four-post leg style, or a custom indestructible metal stool, these platforms provide valuable tools for training, grooming, fitness, and hierarchy control. Not only are they cost-effective and customizable, but they also offer durability and the satisfaction of creating something with your own hands.

So, gather your materials, unleash your creativity, and start building your own dog training platforms today. Your dogs will thank you for it, and you'll enjoy the process of crafting something both functional and unique.