How to build a wooden dog crate?

Question

Hi everyone!

How would I go about building a wooden dog crate.

My inspo is something like this:

I'm not too fussed about all the little detailing on the wood, I'd just like to try and make something for my dog that can be used as a table too :)

Thanks!

Jason · Answer

You might also get some inspiration from our collection of dog kennels and beds by Bunnings Workshop members @millyhobbs.

We are looking forward to seeing what you can achieve.

Jason

millyhobbs · Answer

Wow, thank you so much. Very thorough!

EricL · Answer

Hello @millyhobbs

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about building a wooden dog crate.

This is a wonderful project which you can build using a few basic tools, but in saying that it would be more convenient if you had a few power tools in hand. The dog crate is technically a rectangular box with cut out hole strips on each panel. The goal is to build one panel at a time and then assemble to it create the dog crate.

Tools needed:

* Cordless drill -

https://www.bunnings.com.au/ozito-pxc-18v-cordless-drill-driver-kit-pxddk-250c_p0299323

A good basic starter drill.
* Drill bits -

https://www.bunnings.com.au/ryobi-40-piece-specialty-metric-drill-and-drive-set_p0354519

This will cover all your needs.
* Circular saw -

https://www.bunnings.com.au/ozito-pxc-18v-165mm-circular-saw-skin-only_p0033141

Battery from your drill is compatible with this unit
* Hand saw -

https://www.bunnings.com.au/trojan-360mm-toolbox-hand-saw_p0191073

* Tape measure -

https://www.bunnings.com.au/trojan-8m-tape-measure_p0423745

* Ruler -

https://www.bunnings.com.au/craftright-600-and-300mm-stainless-steel-ruler-2-pack_p5660462

* Pencil -

https://www.bunnings.com.au/craftright-12-piece-carpenters-pencil-with-sharpener_p5660662

* Hole saw -

https://www.bunnings.com.au/craftright-16-piece-holesaw-set_p6372275

Cut holes in timber panel
* Sandpaper -

https://www.bunnings.com.au/flexovit-115mm-x-1m-240-grit-painted-surface-sandpaper-roll_p1210525

* Safety gear -

https://www.bunnings.com.au/saxon-latex-dipped-garden-gloves_p0256802

,

https://www.bunnings.com.au/craftright-clear-safety-goggles_p0375363

,

https://www.bunnings.com.au/bear-disposable-p2-respirator-dust-mask-with-valve-3-pack_p1210576

Materials:

* MDF -

https://www.bunnings.com.au/customwood-2400-x-1200-x-16mm-raw-standard-e0-mdf_p0590129

* Screws -

https://www.bunnings.com.au/zenith-8g-x-40mm-countersunk-rib-head-chipboard-screws-100-pack_p2408430

* Paint -

https://www.bunnings.com.au/british-paints-1l-white-water-based-4-in-1-prep-primer-sealer-undercoat_p1420373

,

https://www.bunnings.com.au/british-paints-clean-and-protect-white-low-sheen-4l_p0561928

* Feet -

https://www.bunnings.com.au/jack-100-x-15mm-rubber-anti-vibration-squares-4-pack_p3961547

* Timber glue -

https://www.bunnings.com.au/gorilla-236ml-wood-glue_p1662680

Before you begin, it's important to take a few considerations about where the dog crate will be positioned. If it is to be left outside directly exposed to the weather, I propose using marine plywood instead of MDF. I've suggested MDF on the condition that it will be placed indoors. The same goes for paint, if placed outside, outdoor rated paint must be used.

The first step is to look at your MDF panel 2400mm x 1200mm and divide it by the number of panels you'll be needing. I'm going to be conservative and keep the measurements within the size of the panel. Please keep the size of your dog in mind when planning your measurements.

I propose the following cut list:

* 900mm x 600mm (X2) Floor and Top cover
* 868mm x 600mm (X1) Back panel
* 552mm x 600mm (X2) Side panels
* 450mm x 600mm (X1) Front panel

I'll be placing images below to give you a general visual guide how to assemble it. The cut list is the number of cuts you need to make in the panel to create the smaller number of panels to create the dog crate.

First step is to mark the cutting lines on the panel. Using your tape measure and ruler mark the cutting guides on the panel based on the suggested measurements with your pencil. Double check the line locations and measurements just to be safe.

Second step, you can either use a circular saw or a handsaw. If you are not yet confident with the circular saw, you can try and practice with it on off cut timber pieces. If, however, you choose to use the hand saw my best advice is to take your time and get familiar with the cutting motion of the saw. Once you have cut the panel you should end up with seven pieces, but you'll only need six for the assembly. I suggest sanding the sides of the panel to give them a nice finish.

Third step, based on the image you've shared there are three ventilation cut out strips for the back panel and side panel. I've placed a suggested cut out pattern below. Repeat the pattern for the side panels. You'll need to use the hole saw kit for the ends and your hand saw to cut the straight lines. I've also inluded the cut out plan for the front panel. Once the cut outs are done, I suggest sanding the edges to give them a nice finish.

Fourth step is assembly, I suggest starting with the back panel and a side panel. Please note that the side panels must sit on the edge of the back panel. I've placed an image on suggested screw locations. Once you have sides and front assembled you can now install the top and bottom sections. I've placed an image below with suggested positioning. Please make sure to apply wood glue on all the joints before screwing them together. My best advice is to drill pilot holes to prevent splitting the sides of the panel

Fifth step is to paint the dog crate and once the paint has cured you can then glue the rubber feet under the crate.

Here are some discussions about dog kennels to give you more ideas:

* How to build double dog crate TV stand? by @GingerNinja 
* Indoor dog kennel by @Poppop 
* Dog crate buffet cabinet with sliding door by @WayneM 
* D.I.Y. dog kennel with porch by @RubyCavoodle 
* Dog kennel with ramp and rooftop by @BradN

Please remember to wear personal protection such as gloves, goggles and a mask when working on your project.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric