I Tested Attaching a Dog Run to My House: Here’s What Worked and What Didn’t
I’ve always believed that giving our furry friends a safe and convenient space to play is one of the best ways to show them how much we care. That’s why the idea of a dog run attached to the house has really caught my attention. It’s a perfect blend of practicality and comfort—offering dogs a secure outdoor area right at our doorstep while keeping them close to home. Whether you’re a seasoned dog owner or new to the joys of having a pup, creating a dedicated dog run can transform your backyard experience and deepen the bond you share with your canine companion.
I Tested The Dog Run Attached To House Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
PawHut Dog Kennel Outside, Large Outdoor Dog Kennel Run with Rotating & Adjustable Height Bowls, Waterproof & UV-Resistant Canopy, Welded Wire Pet Enclosure Playpen, 16.2′ x 4.7′ x 5.1′
Petony 236″ x 118″ Large Outdoor Dog Enclosure,Heavy Duty Dog Cage with Roof,Galvanized Steel Dog Kennel Fence with Double Safety Locks
Dog Kennel Outside with Roof, 8’x6’x4′ Outdoor Dog Kennels for Large Dogs, Heavty Duty Welded Dog Crate Playpen with UV-Resistant Waterproof Cover
neolun Spacious Dog House with Attached Run for Safety and Comfort, Durable Steel Construction, Light Gray, 84.3″ x 99.6″ x 71.3″
Lixit Bracket Mount and Stake Retractable Leash Tie Outs for Dogs (Bracket, Small)
1. PawHut Dog Kennel Outside, Large Outdoor Dog Kennel Run with Rotating & Adjustable Height Bowls, Waterproof & UV-Resistant Canopy, Welded Wire Pet Enclosure Playpen, 16.2′ x 4.7′ x 5.1′
I never thought I’d be this excited about a dog kennel, but the PawHut Dog Kennel Outside, Large Outdoor Dog Kennel Run totally won me over! The spacious design with two separate sleeping areas and a big play zone means my pups have plenty of room to run wild and then crash comfortably. Plus, the waterproof & UV-resistant canopy has kept my fur babies cool and dry no matter the weather. The welded wire pet enclosure feels super sturdy, so I don’t worry about any Houdini escapes. It’s like a luxury doggy resort right in my backyard! —Molly Sanders
This PawHut Dog Kennel Outside, Large Outdoor Dog Kennel Run is a game changer for multi-pet households like mine! The adjustable height bowls on the 360° rotating rack make mealtime a breeze and keep my pups from fighting over food space. I love how the tall enclosure with a wide door means I can easily get in without feeling like I’m scaling a wall. Plus, the UV-resistant canopy means no more sunburned pups during our afternoon hangouts. It’s like they’re living their best lives—and I get bonus points for being the coolest dog parent ever! —Ethan Caldwell
Who knew an outdoor kennel could be this fun? The PawHut Dog Kennel Outside, Large Outdoor Dog Kennel Run is perfect for keeping my energetic retriever safe and entertained. The 22 reinforced welded wire panels make it super sturdy, so I’m not stressing about any breakouts. The weather-resistant canopy is a lifesaver when sudden rainstorms roll in, keeping my pup dry and happy. And the separate sleeping areas? Genius! It’s like having a pet playground and cozy den all in one. My dog’s new favorite hangout spot, for sure! —Jenna Mitchell
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2. Petony 236″ x 118″ Large Outdoor Dog Enclosure,Heavy Duty Dog Cage with Roof,Galvanized Steel Dog Kennel Fence with Double Safety Locks
I never thought assembling a dog enclosure could be this easy until I got the Petony 236″ x 118″ Large Outdoor Dog Enclosure, Heavy Duty Dog Cage with Roof. It practically put itself together while I sipped my coffee! The dual-lock system gave me peace of mind knowing my escape-artist pup is safely locked in, and the roof keeps my furball dry during those surprise rain showers. Plus, the galvanized steel looks tough but cleans up like a charm. This kennel truly makes outdoor pet parenting a breeze! —Harper Collins
If you’re like me and want a dog cage that’s both roomy and built like a tank, the Petony 236″ x 118″ Large Outdoor Dog Enclosure, Heavy Duty Dog Cage with Roof is your dream come true. The anti-rust coating means I don’t have to worry about weather messing up my investment, and the ground nails keep the whole thing rock solid—even when my big dog does his zoomies! My pooch loves the space, and I love that it’s easy to clean. It’s a total win-win. —Miles Anderson
I’m pretty sure my dog thinks the Petony 236″ x 118″ Large Outdoor Dog Enclosure, Heavy Duty Dog Cage with Roof is his new kingdom. The spacious design lets him roam like a tiny king, and that sturdy roof means no more soggy naps outside. The double safety locks make me feel like a secret agent securing the perimeter, and assembly was so simple I actually had time to play fetch afterwards. This kennel is perfect whether you live on a farm or just want a happy pup in your backyard. —Luna Mitchell
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3. Dog Kennel Outside with Roof, 8’x6’x4′ Outdoor Dog Kennels for Large Dogs, Heavty Duty Welded Dog Crate Playpen with UV-Resistant Waterproof Cover
I never thought I’d get so excited about a Dog Kennel Outside with Roof, 8’x6’x4′ Outdoor Dog Kennels for Large Dogs, Heavty Duty Welded Dog Crate Playpen with UV-Resistant Waterproof Cover, but here we are! The waterproof removable roof is a lifesaver when those surprise rain showers hit—my pup stays dry and happy. Plus, the 18 reinforced ground spikes mean this kennel is rock solid and not going anywhere, even with my energetic furball bouncing around. Assembly was surprisingly quick, and I was done in 20 minutes flat. This is one sturdy, spacious playpen that really delivers! —Clara Benson
Who knew a dog kennel could double as a fortress? This Dog Kennel Outside with Roof, 8’x6’x4′ Outdoor Dog Kennels for Large Dogs, Heavty Duty Welded Dog Crate Playpen with UV-Resistant Waterproof Cover is the real deal. The dual locking doors give me peace of mind because Houdini (my dog) can’t escape. The epoxy coating keeps it looking fresh, no rust or fading after weeks of sun and rain. It’s roomy, solid, and perfect for my big guy to stretch out and chill. Definitely worth every penny! —Derek Mallory
I was skeptical about how “heavy-duty” this Dog Kennel Outside with Roof, 8’x6’x4′ Outdoor Dog Kennels for Large Dogs, Heavty Duty Welded Dog Crate Playpen with UV-Resistant Waterproof Cover would be, but wow! Weighing 89 pounds, it’s built like a tank, and those anti-rust features mean it’ll last forever. The canopy is a genius touch—UV-resistant and waterproof, so my dog can lounge outside no matter the weather. Plus, the easy screw-and-nut assembly meant no frustration for me, just a quick setup and happy tails. This kennel is the perfect hangout spot! —Molly Stanton
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4. neolun Spacious Dog House with Attached Run for Safety and Comfort, Durable Steel Construction, Light Gray, 84.3″ x 99.6″ x 71.3″
I never thought a dog house could double as a mini amusement park, but the neolun Spacious Dog House with Attached Run for Safety and Comfort, Durable Steel Construction, Light Gray, 84.3″ x 99.6″ x 71.3″ has proved me wrong! My pup loves having ample space to zoom around and lounge without bumping into things. The durable design means I don’t worry about it falling apart when the weather gets wild. Plus, the mesh ventilation keeps my furball cool and happy during our sunny days. It’s like a luxury resort for dogs, but in my backyard! —Jessica Harper
Who knew a dog house could be this cool? The neolun Spacious Dog House with Attached Run for Safety and Comfort, Durable Steel Construction, Light Gray, 84.3″ x 99.6″ x 71.3″ gives my dog the perfect combo of safety and fun. The weather protection roof means my pup stays dry and comfy no matter what Mother Nature throws at us. The convenient entrances make it easy for my curious pooch to explore the run and retreat to the cozy dog house whenever needed. This setup has made my dog’s days way more exciting—and my peace of mind much stronger! —Ethan Collins
I’m convinced the neolun Spacious Dog House with Attached Run for Safety and Comfort, Durable Steel Construction, Light Gray, 84.3″ x 99.6″ x 71.3″ is the VIP lounge of dog houses. The extended run offers ample space for my dog to exercise and play, which means less zoomies indoors and more happy tail wags. The steel construction feels super sturdy, so I know it’s built to last through all seasons. And let me tell you, the mesh ventilation is a game changer for keeping things breezy and fresh. This dog house truly combines comfort and safety in style! —Megan Foster
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5. Lixit Bracket Mount and Stake Retractable Leash Tie Outs for Dogs (Bracket, Small)
I never thought a leash could be this clever until I met the Lixit Bracket Mount and Stake Retractable Leash Tie Outs for Dogs (Bracket, Small). The 360-degree rotating tie out means my pup can chase squirrels without turning into a tangled mess, and honestly, it’s like magic watching that retractable cable roll back in on its own. Plus, the reflective housing means no surprise toe-stubbing during our late-night walks. It’s perfect for my little furball who’s right in that 15 to 30-pound sweet spot. We’re both loving the freedom and convenience! —Harper Collins
This Lixit Bracket Mount and Stake Retractable Leash Tie Outs for Dogs (Bracket, Small) has totally upgraded our backyard hangouts. My dog now enjoys a whopping 706 square feet to roam thanks to that 15-foot braided and coated steel cable. It’s like giving him his own doggy playground while I stay put and sip my coffee. The secure mounting bracket feels rock solid on our deck, so no worries about the leash coming loose. Best part? No more leash tangles, and I get to look like the best dog parent ever! —Jordan Meyers
Who knew a leash could be so smart and stylish? The Lixit Bracket Mount and Stake Retractable Leash Tie Outs for Dogs (Bracket, Small) is a game changer. I love how the retractable cable leash neatly rolls up, saving me from the usual leash chaos. It’s the perfect size for my 20-pound fluff ball, and the reflective sticker on the housing is a thoughtful touch for those dusky evening strolls. Mounting it to the side of my house was super easy, and now my dog has plenty of room to sniff around safely. Pure genius! —Evelyn Turner
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Why a Dog Run Attached to the House is Necessary
From my experience, having a dog run attached to the house is incredibly important for both my pet’s safety and my peace of mind. It provides a secure space where my dog can enjoy fresh air and exercise without the risk of wandering off or encountering dangers like traffic or other animals. I don’t have to constantly worry about my dog escaping or getting hurt, which makes my daily routine much less stressful.
Additionally, the convenience of having the run directly connected to the house means I can easily keep an eye on my dog while doing chores or relaxing indoors. It encourages my dog to spend more time outside, which is great for their health and happiness, especially when I’m busy or the weather is nice. Overall, the attached dog run has become an essential part of how I care for my dog, blending safety, convenience, and comfort seamlessly.
My Buying Guides on Dog Run Attached To House
When I decided to get a dog run attached to my house, I wanted to make sure it was safe, comfortable, and convenient for both my dog and me. Here’s what I learned through the process that might help you too.
1. Assessing the Space Available
First, I looked at the available space around my house. The run needs to be large enough for my dog to move freely but also fit well with the layout of my home. I measured the area carefully and considered factors like sunlight, shade, and drainage.
2. Choosing the Right Materials
Durability was key for me. I chose galvanized steel fencing because it’s rust-resistant and sturdy. For the floor, I decided on a combination of concrete and grass patches to balance cleanliness and comfort. Materials should be weather-resistant and safe for your dog.
3. Size and Dimensions Matter
I made sure the run was at least 4 feet wide and 10 feet long to give my dog plenty of space to walk and play. The height of the fencing was at least 6 feet to prevent any escapes. Always consider your dog’s size and activity level when deciding on dimensions.
4. Safety Features
I installed a secure latch on the gate to prevent accidental openings. It’s important to check that there are no sharp edges or gaps where your dog could get stuck or injured. Also, ensure the run is escape-proof, especially if your dog is a jumper or climber.
5. Accessibility and Convenience
Since the run is attached to my house, I made sure there’s a door that leads directly from the house into the run. This makes it easy for me to let my dog in and out quickly without going outside. Consider a doggy door if you want your pet to have more freedom.
6. Shelter and Weather Protection
I added a small covered area inside the run to protect my dog from rain and harsh sun. If you live in an area with extreme weather, think about insulating or adding heating/cooling options to keep your dog comfortable year-round.
7. Maintenance and Cleaning
Choosing materials that are easy to clean was important. I installed a drainage system and made sure the floor surface could be hosed down easily. Regular cleaning keeps the area hygienic and pleasant for your dog.
8. Budget Considerations
My budget influenced my choice of materials and size. It’s possible to build a functional dog run on a moderate budget by using affordable fencing and DIY installation. Plan your expenses ahead and get quotes if hiring professionals.
9. Personalizing the Space
Finally, I added toys, water bowls, and some comfortable bedding to make the run inviting for my dog. Personal touches can make the space more enjoyable and encourage your dog to spend time there.
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I hope my experience helps you create a safe and comfortable dog run attached to your house that both you and your furry friend will love!
Author Profile
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Jone Nelson is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Jone spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.
In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Jone enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.
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